18 Floors Above the Apocalypse novel Chapter 291

Austin was not sure how long the eternal night would last, he reckoned it was time to follow his son's footsteps and embrace self-sufficiency. He started to grow vegetables and raise chickens and ducks in his backyard.

"You have the resources to do so, but I'll pass."

Stella had plenty of fish and a flock of sheep at her disposal. "The temperature fluctuation is already significant during the polar day, and I worry it would be even more dramatic during the perpetual night. I won’t waste my efforts."

Austin decided to give it a try. He had nothing better to do during the endless darkness after all. So, he requested Stella for some vegetable seeds, planning to utilize his backyard and rooftop.

If he couldn’t manage, he could always ask Monkey and his crew for help, and share the surplus produce with them.

After he left, Stella contacted Lukas via walkie-talkie, "Lukas, I've heard rumors that the eternal night may arrive in the coming months. Stock up on food and reinforce your doors and windows.

The eternal night might lead to a rise in crime. You might need to reconsider continuing your work."

Lukas turned serious, "We'll see about the work situation. We've just secured a house, and we'll be moving in next month. We'll probably have nothing left but a few bottles of whiskey and some brown sugar. Can you help us look out for any food resources?"

"Sure, I'll keep an eye out for you. If I have any surplus vegetables, I’ll dry them out and give them to you."

"Thanks, Stella."

"Don't mention it, just be careful."

The government had not made an official announcement yet, but those with reliable sources were already stirring up anxieties.

Monkey and his crew came over with their families. The women started planting hardy potatoes and vegetables not only in Austin's backyard and rooftop, but they even utilized the front yard. The men helped install electrical fences on the high walls, including those of Building 50.

Stella, unsure when the eternal night would arrive, decided to install the electrical fence in advance. As a token of thanks, she gave them 10 pounds of corn kernels, asking them to install a diesel generator as well.

She knew how to dismantle the device, but reassembling it was another story. Austin had the manpower, why not use it?

Arcadia had enough electricity, but they needed a source for the times when power might be needed.

The actions of Building 49 and Building 50 stirred up the nerves of other households in the community. Those without a diesel generator approached Austin, hoping to get one.

Austin, unable to find enough supplies, went to Stella for help.

"Sorry, I don't have any left. I've gone through a great deal just to exchange for a second-hand one."

Austin had to find a solution on his own. He managed to get a few, and traded them for food.

Although Austin lacked the physical strength of those living in Building 50, he was smart. He secretly gathered Monkey and his crew, built a basement in the villa, and stored all the food.

"Remember, not even your wives can know about this. Whoever can’t keep his mouth shut, I'll break his head."

After scolding his men, Austin gave each of them a bag of food, reminding them, "We don't know how long the eternal night will last. If it really comes, we can't go out to conduct business anymore, so be frugal with your food. You all live together, and in times of danger, stick together. Right opposite is the police station. If one day you are really in danger, all of you can move over to my place."

Meanwhile, a community meeting was held regarding the safety issues of the eternal night. This was a matter concerning every household, so everyone attended.

The eternal night was like being blindfolded. To protect the community, it was suggested that each household should install a light in front of their house. Not only would this facilitate security patrol, but it could also deter criminals to some extent.