Examining the tank page, Ye Fan noted the addition of only two vehicles. Nana had informed him that high-tech vehicles like tanks required physical construction to unlock, and the virtual tank factory had limited permissions.
Two new tanks had joined the arsenal: the Multi-functional wrecker, costing 2000 gold, and the Mining vehicle, with a price tag of 6000 gold. The barrier-breaking forklift, while resembling a mining truck in tonnage, served a different purpose. Primarily utilized for clearing roadblocks, it also functioned as a forklift, crane, and trailer.
In the post-apocalyptic landscape, road obstacles posed a significant challenge, especially in urban areas. Ye Fan recalled instances when his vehicles were stranded due to impassable roads, like when entering cities. The addition of such vehicles would alleviate these challenges and prove indispensable, not just for building a base but also for general mobility.
The introduction of the mine-laying vehicle caught Ye Fan by surprise. Anticipating future defense concerns after establishing the base, he recognized the strategic value of mines as an excellent defensive weapon. Despite the hefty cost of 6000 gold, Ye Fan considered it a worthwhile investment for the future.
Having generated funds from creating 13 soldiers, Ye Fan still held 12,300 gold. His immediate priorities included replenishing the medical cart and dining cart, each priced at 2500 and 2000 gold, respectively. These vehicles were crucial for medical support and meal provisions, addressing the practical needs of his expanding army.
Acknowledging budget constraints, Ye Fan deferred the acquisition of transport trucks and platoon leader warriors. With the remaining 7800 gold, he consulted engineers on the optimal number needed for their professional counterparts. Engineers initially requested 50 soldiers, but their expertise allowed them to efficiently collaborate with just 30 soldiers.
Ye Fan promptly produced thirty engineers, allocating 6000 gold to them. With the captured grain depot now under engineer control, they commenced building base vehicles. The engineers, adept at their tasks, replaced soldiers in specific roles.
Left with 1800 gold, Ye Fan prioritized the production of three heavy machine gun warriors. Recognizing the battlefield's demand for heavy firepower, he aimed to expedite their entry into combat. The final 300 gold was invested in a military dog, intended to form a guard class.
As the funds flowed, more than ten thousand gold vanished. Fortunately, Ye Fan considered the expenditures worthwhile. Soon, two additional vehicles—a dining car and an ambulance—arrived, driven by engineers and soldiers, enhancing the team's capabilities.
Observing the bustling activity of his troops, Ye Fan recognized the need to bolster his strength further. He formulated two plans: practicing shooting and studying a crystal extracted from a mutated beast's brain. This rare crystal, obtained from a mutated beast rather than armored zombies, intrigued Ye Fan.
Summoning engineer Han Jing, Ye Fan presented the crystal, seeking insights into its properties. Han Jing, equipped with magnifying glass, awl, and metal tweezers, delved into the study as if engaged in archeology. After ten minutes, Han Jing reported that the crystal contained an unknown energy potentially beneficial to the human body. However, its effects and consumption method required further discussion.
Impatient to enhance his strength before the impending trading conference, Ye Fan decided to try consuming the crystal. Picking up the egg-sized crystal, he noted a faint aroma, reminiscent of the best part of mutated beast meat. Overcoming initial hesitation, Ye Fan closed his eyes and took a bite, finding the taste akin to the delectable mutated animal meat he had grown accustomed to. The crystal promised strength and resilience, providing a fragrant and satisfying experience with every bite.