Civilization War Era Ends, Giant Lizard Star Becomes the Train's Backyard, Returning to Normalcy
After the conclusion of the war, Giant Lizard Star was revitalized as the train's domain. Life returned to its routine: hunting, resource gathering, and questing for money. Passengers rejoiced as the market flourished, tempting them to indulge.
Food: A vast array of flavors and cuisines emerged, transcending the once-mundane fare of roasted meat or plain cakes.
Clothing: Diversity blossomed beyond black and white. The wealthy flaunted exquisite, durable attire, while the budget-conscious found affordable yet stylish options, fostering individuality.
Pharmaceuticals: The market expanded with potions derived from giant lizard studies—stamina enhancers, strength boosters, and more.
For ascended beings, weapons paled compared to innate power. Many invested in physical enhancements, leading to a surge of second-tier ascendants within three days post-war. These elites dominated local fauna, rendering firearms obsolete. Consequently, weapon production halted, and Damian prioritized crafting warships, eyeing the train's ascension.
"Fu Yao, has everyone ascended, even the children?"
[Yes. Hyper-energy injections ensured every infant became ascended.]
Damian nodded, satisfied. "The train's ascension requires two things: one hundred thousand second-tier ascendants—achievable within a week—and fifty escort ships. Our current rate is two ships per day."
"Time isn't short," he mused.
Ten days later, the fleet reached thirty-five ships, and the second-tier count hit a hundred thousand. Damian ascended to the third tier, undergoing flesh refinement. In the training room, he pinched his skin, questioning Fu Yao.
"Is my skin reinforced? It feels unchanged."
[Enhancement is perpetual. Your skin now withstands conventional kinetic rounds.]
"So this never stops? Could I eventually block nuclear blasts with my body?"
[Nukes are trivial. You'll traverse stars effortlessly—a destiny all ascended beings share.]
Fu Yao interrupted, noting Lilith's summons. "Why would she call me?" Damian wondered, having socialized with her twice since the war. He opted for a discreet route through the lower decks, emerging into the bustling Market District of Carriage Ten. The area thrived with trade; vendors sold rare goods at inflated prices, a practice Damian tolerated if fair.
"Damian, here!" Lilith waved, clad in a striking purple combat suit. Her presence drew admiring glances, though none dared stare long.
"All eyes on you, celebrity status now."
Lilith grinned, linking arms. "Feast on me—I'm richer than on Purple Star! Feeding you is nothing."
"Soft living, then?"
"If you're willing."
Her familiar boldness eased Damian, recalling their Purple Star banter. They dined at a gourmet stall, awaiting dishes made from exotic star beasts.
Over tea, Damian asked, "Your guild keeps you busy?"
"Tasks delegated. Wilson handles it. How's your guild? Join Science Guild; I'll make you vice-leader."
Damian chuckled, sipping tea. "Red Sun ranks a hundredth. Not bad."
"My guild tops three!" She teased, producing candy. "Purple Star sweets—rare now. Not even Elena gets these."
He accepted, savoring the treat once common but now precious.
"If Purple Star revives, would you return?" Lilith asked.
Damian feigned thought. "No. A life among the stars outshines Earthly existence. You?"
Eyes sparkling, she declared, "Same. Here, I'm a leader; there, just an athlete burnt-out. Let's toast to ambition!"
They raised fruit-wine, dining on fragrant star beast delicacies. Lilith winced at the cost—ten coins—yet Damian's impressed reaction fed her pride when he asked of her wealth. "Five thousand saved," she admitted, beaming.
Post-meal, Lilith dragged Damian to entertainment stalls. Melodious singing drew crowds.
"Add KTV to the district," Damian instructed Fu Yao, entranced by the music. The lyrics, soothing after battle, stirred hearts.
As laughter and song filled the air, Damian reflected on Lilith's words—a shared dream of star-bound glory over earthly confines.