18 Floors Above the Apocalypse novel Chapter 458

In Australia, the art of gourmet cuisine has a rich history that stretches back five thousand years. Over time, countless invasive species have been hunted and cooked, pushing many to the edge of extinction.

They'd already mastered preparing yellowtail kingfish, and it seemed like other fish species would soon follow. Just imagine the ocean's vast biodiversity—if they could solve the hunger problem, survivors wouldn't be fighting over scraps. With that out of the way, the base's construction would progress by leaps and bounds.

Stella was hopeful, dreaming of seeing the prosperity and civilization of pre-disaster times restored within her lifetime.

When the conversation turned to fish cakes, she mentioned to Jasper that Justice had come by, "He pretty much threw down the gauntlet, making it clear he wouldn't take no for an answer."

Jasper thought for a moment, "There are many survivors dealing with mental issues and physical ailments. Plus, those working on the construction sites often get injured. Western medicine is running out, and experts in traditional medicine are even rarer. With several medical staff injured, the hospital can't function properly. Justice was desperate, probably feeling he had no other choice but to appeal to your sense of duty."

He didn't tell Stella what to do. "Stella, running the hospital is no small feat. Whether you say yes or no, make sure it's your decision, not because you felt cornered into saying yes. If you agree reluctantly, you won't be happy."

Stella stayed silent, not saying another word. How to put it? She was kind of interested, but not entirely sure.

Jasper patted her shoulder, "No rush, take your time to think it through."

The family had dinner, played with the dog, read books, and went to bed on time.

In the morning, Jasper got up quietly.

Stella followed suit, "I think I want to go check out the hospital."

"How about tomorrow?" Jasper saw she wasn't looking great and reached out to touch her forehead, "You were tossing and turning all night, barely slept."

When he asked about her dream, she kept quiet, but it was clear she was in a bad mood.

"It's okay, I'll catch up on sleep when I get back."

Jasper didn't stop her, "Alright, I'll be waiting for you."

The family got ready, had breakfast, and headed off to work. Stella followed Jasper to Area A, leaving Cooper at home.

Cooper had gotten used to it, knowing that unless there was a break-in, it would quietly guard its little patch of the world, no matter what happened outside.

Taking the ferry, Stella felt the brisk sea breeze clear her mind. She had dreamt about Daniel the night before. He was riddled with sickness and there was no cure to save him. His eyes were wide open, staring at her until he passed without ever closing them.

Then, her Arcadia disappeared. All the supplies and life-saving medications in Arcadia were gone. She woke up drenched in cold sweat. What if Arcadia, which had come so suddenly, just as suddenly vanished? If that day ever came, what would she do? The thought kept her up all night, feeling utterly miserable.

Soon the ferry arrived at Area A. Jasper hurried off to work, "Stella, come find me if you need anything."

Stella nodded and made her way to the hospital alone. The hospital was massive, with a section marked off for growing medicinal herbs. Through the glass, she saw various common herbs thriving, some ready for their first harvest.

Herbs were precious, and not far away, a patrol kept watch. As Stella peered inside, they grew alert. Seeing the patrol approach, Stella quickly moved on, heading toward the hospital.