Chapter 378: Interstellar Train (Request End-of-Month Votes!)

A crowd surged with emotion; Lin Xian and Chen Sixuan exchanged startled glances with Kiki, then headed toward Loading Line No. 1 Factory. Before they even entered, dense robots moved in orderly fashion overhead, a constant clamor of mechanical assembly and welding rising around them.

The moment Lin Xian and his group stepped into Loading Factory No. 1, their breaths momentarily halted.

This factory was not a workshop—it was more like a man-made canyon, its steel supports towering like colossal trees, holding up a curved dome, while at its center, a colossal object loomed before them with an epic grandeur.

Its entire hull was clad in black starship armor, a 2, 00-meter-long black vessel stretching across the entire assembly zone; it was hard to see any trace of the word "train"—it was clearly a massive airborne starship.

Most peculiarly, this colossal vessel was divided into four modules, each differing slightly in size and shape, yet when fully connected, they formed a sheathed interstellar greatsword, intimidating to behold.

"Whoa, is this a train?" Shasha widened her eyes.

"It's even larger than a Farstar-class starship," Shu Qin exclaimed in shock.

At this moment, everyone—Da Lou, Liang Lei, Luo Yang, Li Yi, and others—were stunned; young people like Miao Lu, Lu Chang, and Xiao Yuan were too astonished to speak.

"Too badass—I love it," Lu Xingchen said with bold enthusiasm, his heart racing as he turned to Lin Xian: "Brother Lin, let's board this ship and charge into the heavens, sailing toward the endless stars…"

"Don't go crazy."

Kiki raised a hand to interrupt him, gazing at the black starship: "Can this thing run on a track?"

"Definitely," Lao Mo said with awe, pointing upward at two strange black energy channels beneath the vessel: "Those are track bows—they generate a levitation field to cling to the orbital ring. The orbital ring's design already includes magnetic levitation and horizon gate standards; this is entirely feasible."

"Exactly."

The elderly engineer beside Jian Xuwēi added: "The original orbital ring plan was to build it in space, for constructing the Moonwatch Ring. The Moonwatch Ring was meant to serve as a space city and a transit hub to the Moon. The Skyward Interstellar Train was designed to transport goods between Earth and the Moon with extreme efficiency. But due to technological limitations and regional cooperation issues at the time, the Moonwatch Ring opted for an equatorial space elevator instead. The current orbital ring is part of the first-phase ground project, and global magnetic levitation transport has greatly improved efficiency."

"This Skyward-class interstellar megastructure train, codenamed Ark-7, has a core vessel divided into four modules: No. 1 is the main drive vessel, housing defense weapons and the central AI system; No. 2 is the functional module, containing the track guidance system, star navigation, and the gravity ring—the Skyward Train's 5, 00-megawatt 【Stellar-Driving】 nuclear core is here, but the gravity ring isn't finished yet. This module also holds cryo-sleep pods and civilization embryo chambers, capable of storing vast supplies. No. 3 is the crew living quarters and main bridge, primarily for operational and technical crew. No. 4 is the propulsion chamber, housing eight Eternal Star Propulsion units—remember, a 500, 00-ton Farstar-class starship only has four!"

The engineer adjusted his glasses and continued: "Additionally, because this is designed for transport, including its levitation engines and 2, 00 propulsion arrays, this combined interstellar megastructure train can connect over 1, 00 of the standard vessel modules you just saw. Each of those modules, if used for habitation, can accommodate at least a thousand people!"

"So why is this thing called a train…?" Lin Xian didn't understand, but he was deeply stunned.

"Didn't I say it can run on tracks?" Jian Xuwēi said calmly. "Extremely speaking, if the structure permits, your entire train fleet could be dragged straight into the sky by this."

"That's insane," Shi Di laughed bitterly. "Our trains don't have levitation engines—being pulled by this would be like a rope."

"I'm just using a metaphor," Jian Xuwēi said, turning to Lin Xian. "Even if it can't fly yet, using it as a traction vehicle for the orbital ring solves the track problems. If possible, let's form an alliance and cross the Pacific. One day, if we break through the Celestial Veil, you'll have the right to do so."

"I think that's great," Qian Dele stepped forward first, smiling at Lin Xian: "Lin Xian, count me in—I want a room with a window."

"I'll operate the Track-Stellar Cannon!" Shasha raised her hand excitedly, eager to try.

"I'll handle the information center!" Kiki giggled.

"I'll be the helmsman!" Luo Yang volunteered.

"Haha, then I'll be the chief engineer!" Lao Mo chuckled.

"Man, with something like this, I don't need to upgrade Longshan No. 1 anymore," Shi Di crossed his arms and looked at Lin Xian: "Brother Lin, let's form a grand alliance—strength in numbers. What do you say?"

In an instant, everyone was exhilarated; after seeing this colossal interstellar train, all were filled with longing.

These people had all endured the despair of being trapped beneath the orbital rings in the Star Abyss, and now the Celestial Veil blocked their world—this starship, capable of running on tracks, flying when needed, and bristling with firepower and function, was clearly a custom-built doomsday sanctuary for them.

Lin Xian watched this scene, his head spinning.

Two days ago, he'd mentioned at Wangyue Zhenji's banquet that he wanted a vehicle that could fly, swim, and run on tracks—and now this interstellar warship appeared before him, making him question reality.

"How many standard vessel modules were there on that previous diagram?"

"Three, and one under construction—but it's nearly halted," Jian Xuwēi said, watching as everyone pushed Lin Xian toward alliance; her gaze shifted slightly. "That's why I sought Silent City's help and why I want to ally with you."

"You want him to help build more?"

Jian Xuwēi nodded: "And the weapons system and gravity ring. The problem is, all resources have been withdrawn by Dawn City. My original plan was to build at least ten standard modules, but at this pace, it's impossible."

"Ten? Do you have ten thousand people?"

"My alliance with Jiang Yun currently has over sixty thousand people in Dawn City," Jian Xuwēi said.

"Sixty thousand people?!?" Lin Xian exclaimed. "You're planning a rebellion!"

Jian Xuwēi smiled: "Besides our Fenge Group members, some joined from Yubei Airport, and most are from Jinhai and Dawn City who united. Everyone formed this alliance to face the Crimson World. If we leave Dawn City, I'll coordinate these people through Fenge Group's alliance convoys and head to the polar region. You forgot—I still have Silver Star."

Lin Xian nodded: "Now I'm not surprised about Jiang Yun."

Honestly, Lin Xian deeply admired Jiang Yun—this guy could rally friends anywhere and build such a massive alliance; he was no ordinary man.

"What do you say?" Jian Xuwēi now looked at Lin Xian. "The Star Abyss is growing more unstable—time is running out. If Dawn Center crosses Qionggu Strait, our fastest route is to cross the Oceanic Orbital into South America. But to reach the polar region, we must cross the sea or fly. Your Infinite hasn't been prepared yet, has it?"

"I've considered it," Lin Xian shrugged. "Sounds good. Even if we can't house everyone, we can temporarily ride with regular trains. With Silent City helping build it, the Skyward Train's expansion potential will keep growing."

"Good."

"But Wangyue Zhenji won't cross the Pacific," Lin Xian said.

Jian Xuwēi frowned slightly: "What?"

Lin Xian briefly explained Wangyue Zhenji's plan. Jian Xuwēi sighed: "I understand. At least now, can you help us complete the fourth standard module?"

"Yes."

Before Lin Xian could speak, a holographic screen lit up on his communicator; Wangyue Zhenji's calm face appeared.

"Not just the standard module—I'll handle the weapons system and gravity ring too. I promised Lin I'd finish this train."

"You planned this all along?" Jian Xuwēi asked Wangyue Zhenji.

"Yes. Strictly speaking, Silent City and Lin are forever allied. Whatever he wants, I'll fulfill."

"Hey, this is you owing me a favor—don't make it sound like we're lovers," Lin Xian grinned. "Get over here fast—study that implant. Also, Jian Xuwēi mentioned the underground factory connects many areas. Have Qian Suxun's mech army and drones sweep the entire city. Otherwise, staying in Jinhai won't feel safe."

"Alright, alright~ I'll be there soon," Wangyue Zhenji said calmly, then ended the call.

Jian Xuwēi stared at Lin Xian in shock. She'd assumed his convoy was merely sheltered by Silent City to enter Jinhai—now it seemed Wangyue Zhenji took orders from Lin Xian.

"What do you mean, Silent City owes you a favor?" Jian Xuwēi asked.

"Oh, nothing."

Lin Xian shrugged: "I just rescued Silent City from the Star Abyss and saved Silent City from destruction. So technically, Wangyue Zhenji owes me a favor."

"You what? You rescued Silent City?!" Jian Xuwēi's usually cold, haughty expression flickered with rare shock. Mo Nika, watching from the crowd, smirked slightly.

"This part's quite dramatic—Director Jian really should hear it," Mo Nika said. Jian Xuwēi's gaze shifted toward Lin Xian, her emotions turning complex.

Jian Xuwēi had received intelligence from Phoenix Order about Yubei Airport, the snowfield breakout, and the Western Lan battle—but she never imagined Lin Xian had rescued ten thousand people from Silent City and its convoy from Star Abyss No. 5.

What extraordinary qualities did this man possess?

"Modular standard vessel modules sound great," Lin Xian said, oblivious to Jian Xuwēi's gaze. "So we can tow the entire convoy together—no need for all-terrain drive anymore."

"Definitely not!" Hu Lushou's eyes gleamed as he rushed forward: "We can fly now! Any hills or obstacles? No worries!"

"Makes sense."

Lin Xian took a deep breath; the train's upgrade path was now crystal clear. Compared to modifying ordinary train cars, this custom-built, track-running, airborne vehicle was perfect. With the Skyward-class, he'd no longer worry about track issues, and its massive hull could support massive weapon expansions—1130s, electromagnetic railguns, plasma bubbles, track-stellar cannons, long-range missiles, even space-based weapons—all could be installed.

A 5, 00-megawatt nuclear core—he could even run a farm or livestock pen inside without worrying about power.

"So what do you say, Brother Lin!" Shi Di leaned in eagerly. "Let's form a grand alliance!"

"I agree," Ningjing nodded.

"I agree too," Qian Dele said.

"I've agreed from the start," Mo Nika smiled.

In an instant, over a dozen other convoy leaders enthusiastically voiced their willingness to join. Jian Xuwēi looked at Lin Xian from the crowd and said seriously: "Can my Silver Star join too, Captain Lin?"

"I'd be honored," Lin Xian smiled at her. "Without you, this Skyward Train would've been taken by the Federation. I should thank you."

Jian Xuwēi shook her head: "In times of crisis, cooperation outweighs division. Everyone must contribute. Some things I can't do alone—but together, we can."

"Good."

Lin Xian nodded thoughtfully: "Then, Director Jian, please brief us on the Skyward Train's full specs and functions. Then we'll discuss alliance roles. This interstellar train is now ours!"

"Yay!" Kiki grinned.

In an instant, the convoy members erupted in excitement.

Whirrrrrr—a massive thunderous roar filled the sky. Above the orbital train loading factory, a colossal airborne city descended with overwhelming presence; countless heads turned upward as a massive deck bristling with heavy weapons came into view.

Silent City.

Immediately, numerous transport ships landed, and countless drones flooded into the factory.

From one transport ship, the cargo door opened; Wangyue Zhenji stepped out with Qian Suxun, Tianye Lan, Long Zhijie, Shizhi, and other Silent City core members.

"I know you hate wasting time—so construction begins now."

Wangyue Zhenji smiled, then gestured to Qian Suxun: "Xun, you're in charge of the underground search."

"Understood."

Qian Suxun tapped his body; nanotech armor rapidly spread. Simultaneously, with ACS robot assistance, dozens of silver mechanical dogs and search drones poured out from the rear transport ships, entering the previous underground implant factory and following freight corridors to begin their search.

Meanwhile, Lin Xian, Jian Xuwēi, and the rest of the "Infinite Alliance" boarded the Skyward Train's main bridge via the docking passage to discuss joint plans and detailed assignments.

It wasn't complicated—the core leadership remained the same. Only crew accommodations were adjusted: combat personnel and technical staff were separated under tiered management.

Until enough modular standard vessels were built, the original convoy would remain unchanged, continuing to follow the train. Since the timeline was uncertain, Lin Xian couldn't know from Wangyue Zhenji how far construction would progress—but it didn't matter much to him. After leaving Silent City, he could start construction himself. That's why he had confidence in the Skyward Train project.

The blueprint already existed—he didn't need to redesign, just build on modules, making it far easier than original autonomous design.

After discussion, the current plan was: Lin Xian as core leader, plus engineers and technicians, boarding the main vessel to operate the interstellar train. Residents would prioritize children; other convoy members remained unchanged, since each train car needed combat personnel to defend it, and moving combat staff into the housing modules would mean fewer defenders if modules were insufficient.

Afterward, Lin Xian would gradually shorten the convoy's length, moving more people onto the interstellar train, while repurposing the now-empty convoy cars for mechanical assimilation.

Time quickly reached 7 a. . The sky remained dark; the sounds of the corpse tide outside the industrial zone had diminished greatly.

The convoy leaders, thrilled after the alliance talks, returned to their trains and spread the news. Upon hearing they'd soon board the interstellar train, thousands were filled with excitement.

Lin Xian descended from the interstellar train, preparing to rest aboard the Infinite, when Jian Xuwēi called him alone into a factory room.

"Taking this Skyward-class from the Federation was my self-preservation plan—and a backup. I never expected you'd ally with me," Jian Xuwēi said, looking at Lin Xian. "Honestly, your accomplishments along the way deeply impress me. I fully endorse you as our leader."

Lin Xian looked at this cold, haughty woman in surprise and frowned: "You've got something else to say, don't you?"

Jian Xuwēi's gaze flickered as she stared at Lin Xian. After a long pause, she spoke:

"From a starship management perspective, you're not a convoy captain—you're a ship captain."

"Whatever," Lin Xian smiled. "We're just an alliance formed for survival in the apocalypse. No need for formal titles."

"You don't understand what I mean."

Jian Xuwei tilted her chin slightly and spoke with an unshakable tone.

"If you are the captain, allow me to be your first mate."

"Why?" Lin Xian smiled faintly.

In fact, he had already seen through Jian Xuwei's intentions—since the moment she brought them into the factory, she had positioned herself at the center and sought an alliance with Lin Xian.

Lin Xian fully understood this.

Jian Xuwei was the head of the Fenge Group; even managing a Silver Star meant overseeing thousands. This Skyborne-class train's construction had relied heavily on her team, and now, with her alliance with Jiang Yun totaling sixty thousand people, Jian Xuwei had clearly approached Lin Xian with the intent of recruiting him. Yet after discussion, everyone had unanimously supported Lin Xian as leader. Lin Xian noticed Jian Xuwei's surprise, but he said nothing throughout the process. The Skyborne-class required construction and control—only Silent City and Lin Xian could accomplish this. In the apocalypse, this "Skyborne Infinite Train" needed one person to command absolutely. So he would not flatter or appease—he waited for Jian Xuwei to state her demand outright.

Jian Xuwei had indeed been unprepared for the alliance's formation and division of roles, but when she learned that Wangyue Shinji of Silent City was Lin Xian's ally—and that Silent City itself had been saved by him—she accepted this reality. Added to her earlier experience at Yubei Airport, where she had witnessed Lin Xian's miraculous turnaround, she was deeply shaken.

Thus, to Jian Xuwei, Lin Xian held a special place in her heart—not as some petty affection or romantic sentiment, but as a quiet admiration within her pride, a thread of curiosity within her reason. Yet above all, she had to answer for the sixty thousand members of the Fenge Group and the Dawn City Windwalkers Alliance. So her willingness to form an alliance hinged on Lin Xian treating her as a core figure, not an expendable one.

Of course, Jian Xuwei was confident in this. As a merchant and group leader, she was unused to communicating through hints or guesses. She needed to confront Lin Xian directly, clearly stating her demands.

"First, we have survived and cooperated through life and death—you can trust me and my people. As head of the Fenge Group, I will assist you in strategic decisions and coordinate departmental operations. You can also rely on my execution and capability. As a partner in the 'Wind and Cloud' Alliance, I must answer to my members—even though they are not here now. Given our mutual interests, I must fight for…"

Jian Xuwei saw Lin Xian's smile and knew he had guessed her thoughts, yet she did not yield. She met his gaze defiantly and said:

"Finally, I am a woman who enjoys power. I accept being second only to you because I told myself—and tried to make myself believe—that you…"

"Are the Savior!"

(End of Chapter)