Chapter 80: National Pride and Responsibility

After their trip to the base, Duan Wenxuan firmly established his roots in the apocalypse. On that day, with food provided by Duan Wenxuan, Roy, Song Boxue, and others busily prepared amidst fervent activity. As a result, a large table was laden with abundant dishes, neatly arranged and overflowing.

Surprisingly, despite the tempting spread, the group of people did not immediately rush forward to devour everything. Instead, they appeared bewildered and at a loss, eventually transitioning into sheer excitement mixed with confusion.

Even Zu Wangshu, the eldest among them, who had experienced countless hardships throughout her life, found herself teary-eyed. The profound contentment and joy spreading from within her heart surpassed even the moment when she first extracted the ‘Sifert’ substance; it simply could not compare to this feeling now.

Duan Wenxuan observed these dozen individuals, standing at the head of the table as those nearby instinctively left several spaces empty around him.

“Eat up. As long as you serve me well, you will continually have access to these luxuries.” With those words, Duan Wenxuan poured himself a glass of wine, took a small sip, then placed the cup on the table before turning and heading upstairs.

With him present, it was likely that none of them could fully enjoy their meal.

Song Boxue and the others didn’t try to detain Duan Wenxuan; instead, they silently watched his figure disappear at the staircase entrance before rushing forward and devouring the food frantically.

Wine, meat, rice, vegetables… How long had it been since they truly savored these luxuries?

Before the Fallout Apocalypse, Sima Mushang was a highly gifted individual in mathematics, even earning the accolade of “Mathematics Princess” due to her exceptional lineage and striking beauty.

However, her beauty, pride, and dignity were utterly shattered by the apocalypse. Now, Sima Mushang was merely an unattractive woman with thinning hair, sallow skin, and numerous dark spots.

She eagerly grabbed red-braised pork from the table, picking out four or five large pieces from the pot. With one hefty chunk stuffed into her mouth, as the succulent juices exploded across her palate, tears instantly welled up in Sima Mushang’s eyes.

She cried while eating fervently.

It wasn’t just her; most individuals present had once been exceptional among their peers before the apocalypse. Never did they imagine there would come a day when consuming a single piece of meat or a mouthful of rice would move them to sob uncontrollably with emotion.

Nighttime.

Duan Wenxuan sat cross-legged before the massive glass window on the nineteenth floor. At this moment, Luoluo City barely displayed any lights, unlike the typical vibrant nights of cities illuminated by dazzling neon signs. However, following the spiritual tide’s outbreak, even real-life evenings had regained their true colors of darkness.

With his exceptional physical attributes, Duan Wenxuan effortlessly heard the sounds of eating and sobbing from the group downstairs…

A phrase came to mind: “The liveliness is theirs; it has nothing to do with me.”

He shouldn’t have felt so sentimental, but Duan Wenxuan genuinely experienced a profound sense of ‘loneliness’. Before, he enjoyed being a homebody, supported comfortably by his substantial savings, which allowed him to avoid working for a living.

Yet despite never feeling ‘lonely’ previously, now he did.

The black paper figurine floated out from Duan Wenxuan’s pocket without making much noise. It gently perched on his shoulder, mimicking Duan Wenxuan’s posture by placing its thin papery hands on its own thighs, silently accompanying him.

He enjoyed a peaceful night’s sleep.

In the real world, upon emerging, Duan Wenxuan noticed that as the peak of the spiritual tide gradually passed, the bone-chilling cold in the air had significantly diminished. Currently, wearing a down jacket allowed for normal movement outdoors. The roads were still filled with standing water, but the gloomy sky had ceased its torrential rain.

The Maplewood Neighborhood remained entirely enveloped by slime, giving it the appearance of being surrounded by a vast pale pink mist.

“You’re back?”

Duan Wenxuan, while eating breakfast, asked, “Did you send Qiao Si away? By the way, how is the situation at Maplewood Neighborhood now?”

Zong Cheng casually picked up and ate one of the boiled eggs Duan Wenxuan had set aside. “The first wave of the spiritual tide has subsided, and there are now more signs of human activity outside. Some people want to enter Maplewood Neighborhood, but as you instructed earlier… the slime… so anyone trying to come in is kept out by it.”

“That’s good.”

After finishing the egg, Zong Cheng continued, “The An City government has resumed its operations.”

Seeing Duan Wenxuan’s attentive expression, Zong Cheng earnestly said, “Now that the spiritual tide has subsided, specialized personnel have begun cleaning the streets and restoring order. In another two days, the underground air raid shelter will reopen as well, allowing some people to return home.”

Originally, the air raid shelter was hastily constructed, and it still requires ongoing improvements. The second wave of the spiritual tide won’t erupt for some time yet, so the base’s gates will undoubtedly open to temporarily let those seeking refuge leave.

“I’ll bring my parents and Cao Yan’s group here,” Duan Wenxuan stated.

“That’s not a problem. Maplewood Neighborhood is quite large, so having Uncle and Auntie move in won’t be an issue. If you have any other relatives or friends, they’re welcome too.”

There was no need for specific thanks between Zong Cheng and Duan Wenxuan due to their close relationship. However, Zong Cheng turned and added, “Lao Hongfeng has already reported your situation. Although you weren’t around these past few days, there are already dedicated individuals who want to speak with you.”

“Who?”

“Yang Kai… Did you know? In An City, there was originally a special forces unit established, jointly led by Li Dong for intelligence and Zhao Mingcai for military operations. After Zhao Mingcai got injured, Yang Kai was specifically transferred here from the capital.”

Duan Wenxuan hadn’t mentioned it, but he was quite familiar with Yang Kai. Under his alias, Duan Wenxuan had interacted with Yang Kai numerous times.

“I definitely need to meet him,” agreed Zong Cheng, nodding. “Shall I accompany you?”

Duan Wenxuan, previously a hardcore otaku, lacked experience in social interactions. Although his recent encounter granted him extraordinary power, it didn’t enhance his intellect or social skills.

In contrast, Zong Cheng always had plenty of ideas. During their past hangouts, whenever Duan Wenxuan faced problems, he would often seek Zong Cheng’s help to find solutions—a testament to Zong Cheng’s genius.

“No need. First, can you locate the wealthy individuals in An City? Once the air raid shelter gates open, I’ll hold an auction for Maplewood Neighborhood properties.”

“Sure thing.” Zong Cheng readily agreed without hesitation.

After finishing his conversation with Zong Cheng, Duan Wenxuan met Yang Kai that very same afternoon. Upon arrival, Yang Kai and his team were dressed in protective suits, complete with gas masks on their heads.

“Apologies, but with my age, I find it increasingly difficult to adapt to the drastic climate changes outside,” Yang Kai said warmly as he enthusiastically shook Duan Wenxuan’s hand upon their meeting.

He didn’t remove his protective suit for two reasons: first, due to the lingering spiritual tide, and secondly, because of the omnipresent pale pink mist in Maplewood Neighborhood. At this moment, any peculiar sight could serve a unique purpose.

Duan Wenxuan smiled awkwardly, appearing somewhat bewildered yet not particularly frightened.

Yang Kai’s group casually took seats in Duan Wenxuan’s home, engaging in conversation. Yang Kai was adept at small talk, effortlessly steering the discussion towards Duan Wenxuan’s childhood, occasionally touching on his misfortunes, and ultimately focusing on the robust laws of their nation. When Duan Wenxuan’s parents met with an accident, Hanming Country’s comprehensive legal system ensured he received adequate compensation.

After conversing with Yang Kai, Duan Wenxuan began feeling a subtle sense of pride and gratitude. Pride in being born in such a country, where fair systems prevailed, citizens were amiable, governance remained transparent, and every citizen’s rights were perfectly safeguarded. Simultaneously, he felt grateful to the Hanming government for providing him with a stable life.

“Wenxuan, Hanming Country’s government ensures the protection of every citizen’s private property. Even if you were to stumble upon some extraordinary fortune amidst these great changes, our government would never go against your wishes.

Unfortunately, many young people today, influenced by too many TV dramas and novels, assume that any valuable discovery will be seized from them. We’re not bandits! In times like these, unity is crucial; internal conflicts would be utterly foolish.”

Yang Kai took a sip of water before continuing, “To be honest, Wenxuan, after all this talk, my main question is: Are you willing to join the special forces? Feel free to make any requests; I’ll do my utmost to accommodate them, regardless of what they may be.”

“Hmm…” Duan Wenxuan furrowed his brow slightly.

Noticing Duan Wenxuan’s hesitation, Yang Kai sighed. “For youngsters like you, we wouldn’t even consider sending civilians to the ‘frontlines’ unless absolutely necessary. You’re still so young and inexperienced.

But there’s no other choice. Do you know how many lives we’ve lost during this spiritual tide? Countless more have perished due to various mysterious incidents. Ordinary individuals without mystical powers are truly helpless.”

“I hate to say this, but I hope you understand that some tasks in this world require pioneers. These endeavors carry both honor and sacrifice. But if everyone were fearful and selfish, what would become of our world? Under the resurgence of the spiritual tide, humanity might truly face extinction.”

Yang Kai’s words were highly persuasive; before their meeting, they had thoroughly researched Duan Wenxuan’s age, mindset, and conducted psychological analysis.

Based on his character, earlier discussions aimed to stir his national pride, while now Yang Kai was appealing to his sense of mission and responsibility. After all, every young adult has fantasized about being the savior of the world at some point.

Duan Wenxuan felt a surge of emotion from Yang Kai’s carefully crafted speech, but years of acting had ingrained in him the habit of thinking thrice before acting. Additionally, he maintained sufficient awareness and caution regarding Yang Kai and his associates.

After a moment of silence, Duan Wenxuan spoke up, “I can only commit to helping as much as possible within my capabilities… Lao Hongfeng must have informed you already, but I’ve joined the Hermit Union. It’s an international research organization, so I cannot show clear bias.”

Yang Kai displayed a hint of regret, “I understand your position, Wenxuan. However, I still hope you remember that your parents were from Hanming Country and you grew up there. We don’t force every citizen to serve their country, but Hanming Country will unconditionally assist its citizens. If you ever encounter difficulties you can’t resolve alone, feel free to reach out to me anytime.”

“Thank you.”

The conversation with Duan Wenxuan concluded for now; it was best not to overstay during their first meeting, as it could become tiresome. Before leaving, Yang Kai presented Duan Wenxuan with a gift.

It was the deed transfer document for all properties in Maplewood Neighborhood’s Phase 1 and Phase 2, granting ownership entirely to Duan Wenxuan. One glance revealed this paperwork had gone through special channels, which would have been impossible before the onset of mystical resurgence.

This unique transfer document aimed to provide Duan Wenxuan with a legitimate avenue on paper, making it indeed a thoughtful gift for him.

After accepting the gift, Yang Kai departed.