18 Floors Above the Apocalypse novel 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.

After returning from next door, Stella sat quietly on the couch, slowly digesting Daniel’s thoughtful concern. The steely resolve within her was starting 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 protective arms.

In the dark bedroom, Jasper took her hand. “Stella, Dad’s really looking out for you.”

She nestled into his embrace, whispering softly, “I know. We’ll sign up first thing in the morning.”

The next morning, Jasper had a heart-to-heart with his sister. “Rosie, Stella and I have decided to join the military. We might be sent all over, so the greenhouse and its management will be your responsibility. Can you handle it?”

Rosie didn’t want to see them go, but she understood it was for the best. “Brother, I can do it.”

Seeing her hesitant expression, Jasper reassured her. “Don’t be afraid of making mistakes at first. Learn from them, and you’ll grow. Stella and I believe in you.”

Indeed, the military had good benefits, and many ordinary folks were lining up to enlist. Each one looked as if a strong gust could blow them away.

Stella and Jasper signed up, breezing through the physical tests—climbing, running, jumping—as if it was child’s play. The recruitment officer entered their data. “Report back in two days.”