Upon hearing this, everyone was stunned.
Since the Western Base had the most participants and contributed the most, they naturally received the largest share of the crystal cores.
The combined total of all the other bases multiplied by two probably wouldn't even match their amount.
Yet now, Peng Shaowei was proposing to use all these crystal cores to purchase supplies.
These supplies would be used for the logistical support of the alliance's first operation!
This was undeniably... a selfless act of dedication.
Especially in this apocalyptic world where everyone was scrambling to snatch whatever they could from others.
Seeing everyone's astonishment, Peng Shaowei explained.
"If it weren't for everyone's help during the zombie siege, we alone would have struggled to win.”
This statement was factual.
Their strongest assets—cannons, bullets, and fire trenches—had only managed to eliminate a portion of the zombies.
Without the other bases' members staying behind to fight alongside them, the outcome would have been uncertain.
Even if they had managed to hold off the attack, the casualties would have been horrifying.
"Moreover, it was our base that initially proposed and organized the zombie cleanup plan. Since everyone has been so supportive, isn't it only right to contribute some crystal cores as startup funds for the plan?"
Peng Shaowei smiled, unconcerned about the magnitude of the contribution.
Everyone was impressed by his magnanimity.
At the same time, they were even more convinced.
With such a righteous person steering the alliance, the joint operations were undoubtedly feasible!
At the end of the meeting, representatives from various bases flocked to Yun Xiaoxiao and her team to discuss purchasing evolution serums.
In a flash, Yun Xiaoxiao and her companions were surrounded.
Watching Yun Xiaoxiao being the center of attention, Tang Yanchi frowned.
"Should we buy some too?"
Someone asked Tang Jun.
Before Tang Jun could respond, Tang Yanchi shot an annoyed glare at the inquirer.
"Buy what? We can directly consume crystal cores to enhance our abilities. Why waste them on buying evolution serums?"
"But... Yun City claims that the evolution serum is more effective than directly consuming crystal cores and doesn't harm the body at all," the questioner said, looking conflicted.
"Actually, I've been feeling my temper getting out of control lately, and my chest feels like it's burning.
I wonder if it's because we've consumed too many crystal cores, causing some side effects.
After all, those things come from zombie brains..."
"If you dare to exchange for evolution serum, don't even think about calling yourself part of Xiangrui Base anymore!"
Tang Yanchi snorted and stormed off.
After glancing at Yun Xiaoxiao, Tang Jun also followed and descended the stairs.
A companion patted the disheartened man's shoulder.
"Let's go."
"But..."
"Don't 'but' anymore. Young Master Tang is naturally arrogant, and you've never seen him lose to anyone.
He's already in a foul mood after this major setback.
Praising Yun City's evolution serum in front of him is like rubbing salt in his wounds.
He won't give you the time of day.
Listen to me, don't mention anything about Yun City in front of him.
Otherwise, you'll have a tough time in the base."
The companion advised earnestly.
Afterward, he quickly caught up with the Tang brothers.
The man sighed quietly, rubbed his uncomfortable chest, and shook his head before following.
As soon as the Xiangrui Base members left, Sun Jian, Liao Yongchang, and their group also departed.
Yun Xiaoxiao merely glanced at their departure before returning her gaze, her eyes carrying a subtle, enigmatic smile.
Not far from the cafeteria.
Sun Jian and his group caught up with Tang Yanchi and his party.
At their calls, the Tang brothers stopped.
"What is it?"
Tang Jun's brow remained unmoved as he looked at them indifferently.
"That girl from Yun City is too arrogant. She dared to disrespect Young Master Tang. It's infuriating!"
Sun Jian complained indignantly.
Tang Jun frowned. "What exactly are you trying to say?"
Sun Jian glanced around, noticing people starting to exit the cafeteria. He pointed to a corner with a sly gesture.
"It's not convenient to talk here. Let's move to that corner."
"Spit it out if you have something to say, don't beat around the bush!"
Tang Yanchi snorted, showing no regard for Sun Jian's feelings.
"Just say it here. Don't waste our rest time."
Tang Jun's tone also carried a hint of impatience.
Though slightly annoyed, Sun Jian suppressed his anger for the sake of his plan to get back at Yun Xiaoxiao.
He leaned in and whispered, "We also can't stand the people from Yun City. So, we thought we could team up with you to teach them a lesson..."
Before he could finish, Tang Yanchi let out another cold laugh.
He looked Sun Jian up and down with disdain.
"You? We lost to them, so what makes you think you can handle them?"
"But... we have you," Sun Jian said, forcing a flattering smile.
"Hmph, I admit I'm not happy about losing, but I'm not a sore loser. Losing is losing. I wouldn't stoop so low as to seek revenge. What kind of people do you take us for?!"
Tang Yanchi roared angrily.
"Get lost, you trash!"
With a bad temper, Tang Yanchi shoved Sun Jian aside and walked away.
"Xiangrui Base doesn't act as anyone's pawn. You're barking up the wrong tree."
Tang Jun coldly eyed Sun Jian and Liao Yongchang.
The brothers didn't bother with the now-fuming Sun Jian and his group, turning their backs and leaving proudly.
As soon as their figures disappeared, Sun Jian couldn't hold back his anger any longer.
He kicked a pebble on the roadside.
"Damn it, do they think they're so great? Their noses are practically in the sky!
If they're so strong, why did they lose to someone else?
Hmph, what a damn shame!"
After venting his frustration, he looked at Liao Yongchang.
"Liao Ge, since Xiangrui Base won't help, what do we do now?"
Liao Yongchang snorted. "What else can we do? Let it go!"
"But what about the beating I took? And our base's reputation? Are we just going to let that slide?"
"Then what do you want me to do?!" Liao Yongchang snapped.
"Do you want everyone to go die with you?!"
Then, he softened his tone.
"This time, consider it a lesson. Next time, control your mouth and temper when you're out. Don't cause trouble for me again."
Liao Yongchang left with his group, leaving Sun Jian alone.
Sun Jian lowered his head, clenching his fists.
Why should he let it go?
Was his beating just going to be in vain?
No way!
With the alliance, there would surely be opportunities to see that brat again.
When the time came, he would definitely...
He looked toward the cafeteria, his eyes filled with malice.
