Chereads / Eternal Snow / Chapter 9 - Chapter 9: The Heart of the Bunker

Chapter 9 - Chapter 9: The Heart of the Bunker

Ethan descended the narrow staircase to basement floor two of his bunker, the air growing warmer and more humid with each step. This floor was his pride and joy, a testament to his meticulous planning and foresight. The entire space was dedicated to growing dwarf produce, each plant thriving under optimal conditions. The climate, atmosphere composition, and lighting were all carefully controlled to ensure the best possible growth.

He walked through the rows of plants, their vibrant green leaves a stark contrast to the icy world above. Every week, he harvested the crops, a routine that had become second nature. Most of the produce was used to feed the livestock on basement floor three, ensuring a steady supply of food for the future.

Ethan smiled as he checked the plants, their growth a small victory in the face of the Deep Freeze. He was grateful for the contract he had made with the plant factory firms, their research on dwarf and accelerated produce growth varieties proving invaluable. Each day, he submitted a detailed report to them, sharing genetic and growth data via his satellite uplink. It was a small connection to the outside world, a reminder that he wasn't alone in this struggle.

He carefully harvested the crops, placing them in baskets to be taken down to the livestock. The rhythmic work was soothing, a moment of peace in the chaos. As he moved through the rows, he thought about the future, about the possibility of rebuilding once the worst of the Deep Freeze had passed.

With the harvest complete, Ethan made his way to basement floor three. The livestock greeted him with eager noises, their presence a comforting reminder of life and resilience. He fed them the fresh produce, ensuring they were well-nourished and healthy.

Returning to his living area, Ethan felt a sense of accomplishment. The bunker was more than just a shelter; it was a lifeline, a beacon of hope in a frozen world. He sat down and turned on the radio, the familiar voices filling the room.

The updates were a mix of hope and desperation, stories of survival and sacrifice. Ethan listened intently, his heart heavy with the knowledge of what was to come. The next great hurdle was approaching, but he was ready. He had prepared for this, and he would face it head-on.

As the day drew to a close, Ethan submitted his daily report to the plant factory firms, detailing the genetic and growth data of his crops. It was a small act, but it connected him to a larger effort, a collective struggle for survival.

With a deep breath, he settled in for the night, the radio still playing softly in the background.