18 Floors Above the Apocalypse

Chapter 553

If he had a choice, Daniel wouldn't have sent his daughter away. But she needed the military honors to prove her worth.

"The Kindle Chest might be lost, but the Firestarter Project has its coordinates. Finding it isn't the hard part; it's the salvaging and transporting that's tricky."

Stella thought for a moment. "Won't people object to this?"

"The big picture comes first. Progress is our focus, and this plan was their decision after much discussion."

Progress benefits everyone. Daniel's concerns had been debated endlessly and shelved only due to current limitations. But now, he was issuing a military order.

It was all above board, both in public and private.

Stella and Jasper knew that to climb the ranks, they had to earn their stripes through their own efforts. If they were incompetent, any forced promotion would be harmful. Those who rise by their own merit leave no room for dissent.

Stella had no objections and decided to enlist in the military.

"I've already picked a team for you. Their families died in the disaster, so they have no ties or weaknesses. You won't have to worry about keeping secrets from them. Use Arcadia's supplies as needed."

Everything would be converted into military honors.

Stella didn't doubt it. It wasn't surprising that someone in Daniel's position would have a loyal team.

to crumble. It was a strange feeling, like running through a downpour and suddenly finding an umbrella overhead. And the person holding it preferred to get soaked themselves. She closed her eyes and hugged her knees, feeling as if she was wrapped in

dark bedroom, Jasper took her hand. "Stella, Dad's really

nestled into his embrace, whispering softly, "I know. We'll sign up first thing in

and I have decided to join the military. We might be sent all over, so the greenhouse and its management will be your responsibility.

understood it was for the best. "Brother, I can

Jasper reassured her. "Don't be afraid of making mistakes at first. Learn from them,

ordinary folks were lining up to enlist. Each one looked as if a strong gust could

and Jasper signed up, breezing through the physical tests-climbing, running, jumping-as if it was

service job postings, all high-level positions. Stella couldn't help but think Daniel was serious about reform. To wield such authority must have taken significant effort and resolve. She hoped

to spare, they decided to visit the greenhouse. There, Rosie was instructing on planting but seemed to be

always rely on

woman sat on the ground, wailing, "Is there no justice left? Just because you're from an official's family, can

cried as

of life

woman's cries, Rosie explained calmly, "She

Lord, such wild accusations from someone so young. Aren't you afraid of divine

of noble birth, demanded clarity. "Stop the wailing. Tell us plainly, did you steal

have stolen? Where would I hide it? She's just using her power to