Apocalypse: I Build A Doomsday Train Chapter 1238 - 477: Becoming Stronger (2)

A slight smile graced Lin Xian's lips as he exhaled slowly. "Let's return. Given how smoothly things went, the others must be waiting impatiently. We can deliver some rather unwelcome news to dampen their day off while we're at it."

Later that afternoon, the sun's intense rays sliced through the clouds over the coast of Oahu Island, Hawaii, scattering dappled light onto the neglected docks of a prosperous estate.

The humid air hung heavy, thick with the scent of the sea and decay. Alongside the port's tracks, a dozen zombies shuffled with unnatural, rigid movements. Their rotting limbs released a faint odor in the heat. A few, drawn to the imposing silhouette of the Sky Dome Train, gravitated towards the Starlight Armor's dark edge. These creatures, once human, extended their claw-like hands, aimlessly scraping against the hull, producing an unnerving, grating sound.

High above, Sha Sha perched by the restaurant window, gazing absently at the zombies below, her legs dangling idly.

The Sky Dome Train's restaurant was a picture of luxury, boasting a bar, plush sunken sofas, a viewing deck, and even an integrated aquarium for aquatic viewing.

All members of Infinity had convened here for a meal. Ding Junyi, from the research module, was present, as were Chen Sixuan and Little Yuan Miaolou, who had prepared a surprisingly lavish spread using resources gathered from the island. Thawed beef, seafood, canned goods, and ice-preserved green vegetables from Infinity itself served as accompaniments. It was a feast that felt almost decadent in a world overrun by the shambling undead.

The group dined interspersed, some relaxing on sofas, others near the bar, a few gathered around the dining table, and more occupied the viewing platform. Drinks were poured as Lin Xian elaborated on the information gleaned from the Phoenix Society, integrating Ding Junyi's and his own analyses. Whispers, focused gazes, and quiet contemplation filled the air, creating a palpable tension.

"Reconnaissance drones have surveyed the branch line. Aside from some obstructions on the offshore section, there are no significant structural issues. Even if problems arise, they can be managed. My strategy is to reach the mainland within two days and one night, proceeding directly to Panama. According to our intel, the closest known location is Sea Abyss 13, which is at least three months from Extreme Night. However, it's uncertain if it's affected by the crimson phenomenon..."

Lin Xian paused, taking a sip of his wine. "Regardless, both the sea and land routes are pathways to our ultimate escape plan. Everyone should prepare themselves mentally."

"The same origin as the enemy? So, it is true then?" Ning Jing questioned Monica. "Rumors like this used to circulate on Dragon Mountain No.1; I never expected..."

"Does this mean my superpower is also linked to some Abnormal Body?" KIKI inquired, crossing her arms, her curiosity piqued. "Lin Xian, do you believe it's that monstrous corpse in the sky?!"

"What monster corpse?" Chen Sixuan interjected.

Lin Xian's expression turned grave. "Possibly, but there's no concrete evidence yet. This is merely speculation to help everyone mentally prepare."

"Ah, so wouldn't our superpower evolution indirectly fuel the Abnormal Body's evolution?" Luo Yang posed a crucial question at that moment.

Lin Xian found himself without an immediate answer. Just then, Qian Deli raised his glass, maintaining an air of nonchalance. "Who cares? We cannot simply await our doom because of this. We evolve, we gain the means for survival. As he said..." He glanced at Lu Xingchen, who stood with a determined posture beside him, "The Fire God's creed is that we must first seek our own strength to command our destiny, correct?"

All eyes turned to Lu Xingchen, who responded with measured calm. "The same origin as the enemy? Ha, throughout cultivation history, there have been paths of slaying three corpses to reach the heavenly realm or confronting one's inner demons to ascertain the source. Perhaps it is not a disadvantage for us to perfect our cultivation and advance further. What is there to fear?"

"Didn't Captain Lin mention that if the Abnormal Body you're connected to perishes, your superpower might vanish entirely?" Xiao Qing chimed in.

Lu Xingchen met the gaze unflinchingly. "With my lifetime of cultivation, I can expunge the calamity befalling the human race, ensure survival for all living beings. If I die, why should it matter? It is a grand gain!"

Xiao Qing’s brow creased slightly upon hearing their words. Her gaze settled on Lu Xingchen, the words she intended to speak caught in her throat. At this juncture, many, including Lin Xian, wore expressions of satisfaction. Though still somewhat playful, Lu Xingchen’s statements resonated deeply, stirring admiration. It was common knowledge that his pronouncements, while grand, carried a righteousness that was both profound and peculiar!

"He speaks the truth," Monica added softly. "Should an Abnormal Body perish, then superpower users would be stripped of their abilities. However, we remain uncertain if the demise of superpower users impacts the Abnormal Body. If we can ascertain that our own evolution also spurs the evolution of the Abnormal Body, we might find a way to counteract them. While the definitive truth remains elusive, I harbor no belief that this development is entirely unfavorable."

She then turned her attention to Ding Junyi. "Great scientist, does my reasoning hold water?"

"It is absolutely sound," Ding Junyi affirmed.

Adjusting her spectacles, Ding Junyi calmly stated, "The very capacity of superpower users to contend with Abnormal Bodies demonstrates that the Dark Civilization cannot exert complete dominion over humanity, even if they share a common origin."

"Could it be akin to selective breeding? Perhaps those beings of higher status simply engineer 'superpower users' or conduct their experiments in such a manner..."

"Otherwise, why would they bestow powers upon such young children?"

The question came from Sun Yuzhen, her face etched with worry. Beside her, Mo Xiaotian sat tensely, listening intently to the unfolding discussion, a flicker of unease crossing his young mind—could he possibly transform into a monstrous entity?

"I believe that is not the case," Shi Zhi, typically a man of few words, interjected. His gaze swept across Ning Jing, Shu Qin, Lv Chang, Xiao Qing, and Chen Sixuan, who represented the Genetic Evolvers. "Beyond the superpower users, all ordinary individuals have undergone genetic evolution, developing crystals. This unequivocally indicates that the entire human populace is subjected to the influence of Dark Energy."

"Precisely. There is no need for undue concern," Chen Sixuan offered with a reassuring smile. "We must seize every opportunity presented, and there will be nothing to fear."

Lin Xian’s brow furrowed at this point. "Hold on, hold on, hold on! Did you all conveniently forget the crimson descent I just mentioned, the betrayal by the Descent Faction, and the impending apocalyptic scenarios? Why is no one discussing these critical matters?"

"Brother Xian, my primary concern lies with increasing my own strength," Da Lou declared, stepping forward resolutely. He planted his hands on his hips dramatically. "Please, grant me the opportunity to partake in this evolution as well!"

"Ah, my hulking friend, you’ve hit the nail on the head," KIKI chimed in, levitating gracefully. "Instead of succumbing to pessimism, let us focus on the potential power we shall attain through crystal evolution!"

"Indeed, you are quite right," Lu Xingchen exclaimed, his gaze locking onto Lin Xian with evident excitement. "Brother Lin, given that the process only requires ten hours, I and the others..."

"Yes, yes, I am equally eager!" Lv Chang interjected with palpable enthusiasm.

"If our Spirit Vibration Value had reached twenty thousand, we would not have suffered such grievous losses during the Battle of Dawn City," Ning Jing remarked, gazing intently at her fist. "Let us proceed."

"Your collective eagerness intrigues me. Very well..." Qian Deli relented, placing a hand over his forehead with a sigh.

"I am in too!" Xiao Qing declared, stepping forward with hopeful anticipation.

"Count me in!" Chen Sixuan, Shi Zhi, Xiao Yuan, Miao Lu, and others voiced their unified assent.

Even Ryuji, Ah Bai, and their companions, who typically remained reserved, offered nods of agreement. Sha Sha, from her perch by the window, also exclaimed, "Become stronger!"

Witnessing each person rise to their feet, Mo Xiaotian, seated beside his mother, gritted his teeth. A resolute determination flared in his eyes as he, too, stood up without hesitation.

Lin Xian observed this surge of resolve with a touch of surprise. He steadied himself, sensing the collective focus on him. Turning, he met Monica’s gaze; she was watching him with a knowing smile. He offered a wry chuckle. Monica was correct; none were dwelling on the arduous path ahead, nor on the potential crimson shroud of the coming night. Every individual was filled with spirited resolve, eager to attain greater strength.

In that moment, a profound sense of security washed over Lin Xian. He felt an overwhelming gratitude for having encountered such companions amidst the desolate apocalypse. They offered him unwavering support during the most trying times and faced any unknown peril with an uplifted, confident smile.

Unafraid of life or death!

Meeting everyone’s expectant gazes, Lin Xian’s lips curved into a slight smile. He raised his wine glass. "To..."

"The apocalypse."