Except for entering and exiting the city, Dawn City's internal surveillance wasn't particularly strict. With too many disaster survivors, the Federation's urban management focused only on energy, public safety, food supplies, and dark incursion prevention. Using blood crystals as currency anchors for transactions, everything else went unregulated as long as it didn't threaten public safety.

Entertainment, commerce, even weapons and superpowers - nobody cared what you did. This place resembled less a city than a massive refugee camp. The Federation leadership worried not about governance but only about city defenses and resources.

After all, in this apocalyptic world with no visible future, everything grew wildly just for survival.

Lin Xian didn't know what the "Dali Club" was, but when their off-road vehicle entered a street lined with pink bar lights and crowded with scantily clad women, he quickly understood.

This was lawless territory.

Light rain pattered down as women on both sides of the street held umbrellas, their provocative outfits accessorized with firearms for protection. All types of women could be seen here, their varied clothing contrasting with the uniform numbness and oppression etched on every face. Beyond survival, life seemed to have lost all meaning.

As their vehicle entered the street, the women slowly pressed closer, forcing passing cars to slow down and drawing unavoidable attention.

The vehicle penetrated deep into the old city district - Dawn City's original northern sector. Its cramped, dirty, overcrowded buildings had been occupied by large motorcades running sex trades, gambling, illegal cybernetic modifications, and other bizarre industries spawned from the anomalies.

"This area has virtually no surveillance. The Federation ignores it because the motorcades here pay higher 'security taxes' than other districts," Jiang Yun explained. "Dawn City no longer has a property system. All residences are assigned by the Population Control Bureau by district - meaning you have to find your own place."

"So those without housing live in vehicles?" KIKI asked.

"Mostly. The earliest motorcades took all habitable buildings. Scattered communities squeeze in wherever they can, but it's not much different from vehicle camps. This district's different - ordinary motorcades can't enter unless absorbed by the big ones here. As long as there are no anomaly attacks or shootouts, the Federation won't intervene."

"The big motorcades pay more taxes and entry fees," Qian Dele remarked.

"Exactly."

Approaching one area, Lin Xian's communicator received a message. An unknown signal guided them into an underground commercial complex. Driving through tunnels, they encountered a subterranean city growing savagely within concrete ruins, panting between neon lights and shadows.

Jiang Yun explained this was a small black market. Rainbow neon signs illuminated walls plastered with pornographic posters and cybernetic modification ads, the narrow alleys between buildings feeling suffocating.

Their vehicle soon parked inside a structure, the rear metal gate slowly descending. Lights flashed on, revealing several fully armed individuals surrounding them with weapons, flashlight beams glaring.

"Identity confirmation," one said.

Lin Xian produced the crimson Phoenix Token and activated it, quickly establishing connection.

The armed group lowered their weapons. As Lin Xian's team disembarked, the crowd parted. From the corridor depths came faint mechanical footsteps as a tall woman with fully cybernetic limbs emerged.

Chu Yan.

This was Wen Hui's first formal meeting with Jiang Yun. In dreams, she'd never clearly seen Jiang Yun's true appearance. Now face-to-face, were it not for perceiving her breathing, Wen Hui would have thought her another robot like Mochizuki Shinji.

Jiang Yun's voice carried an icy chill as she regarded Lin Xian: "Hello, Wen Hui. You seem more spirited than before."

"Probably because I'm sober now," Wen Hui replied with a smile.

Following Jiang Yun and an armed team into the building, no one could imagine such a sophisticated covert operations base hidden beneath a black market. While walking, Lin Xian spotted another group waiting in the corridor.

At their forefront stood a man in his fifties wearing a crisp military uniform adorned with United Front and Phoenix Society medals, his lean frame radiating severity.

His gaze swiftly swept over Lin Xian and the squad members before calmly extending a hand. "Iron Guard Brigade, North American United Front Chief of Staff. I'm commanding Operation Crescent Moon."

"Nice to meet you, Xu Zhenyue."

"We've been awaiting your arrival to commence operations planning." Xu Zhenyue glanced at KIKI and the others behind Lin Xian. "Glad you and your team are willing to assist."

Xu Zhenyue and Chu Yan then led them into a hall where, besides the North American United Front contingent, four Phoenix Society Nightwalker action teams waited. The mission coordinator, Qinuo - a sharp-eyed young man with pale complexion - immediately approached Lin Xian for introductions upon seeing him.

Also present was an 83rd Iron Guard Brigade special ops team led by Zhou Jin, a 1.9-meter-tall hardened soldier with an icy demeanor.

"Since Team Lin has arrived, let's begin," Qinuo said bluntly, pulling out a cigarette pack as he sat. Noticing Lin Xian's look, he moved to activate the exhaust fan by the door. "Compared to amphetamines and alcohol, cigarettes are treasures in the apocalypse - relieving stress while stabilizing mental defenses without impairing judgment or causing psychic anomalies."

"Team Lin, I'm Zhou Jin, 83rd Iron Guard Special Ops commander," the soldier across from them said directly. "You can trust us."

With little ceremony, the groups casually seated themselves in the hall, Lin Xian's team taking the rear. Qinuo lit up before remarking, "I've heard about Skyport and Xilan City. Damn impressive, brother."

Feeling the pressure from the packed room, Lin Xian asked, "All these teams for one mission?"

"Similar. It's a saturation operation with five action echelons prepared."

"Five?" Lin Xian blinked. "Including me?"

"No."

Qinuo exhaled smoke. "You're special - Marshal Ye's reinforcement assignment. One team's dedicated to protecting you."

Lin Xian was taken aback. He'd assumed this would be his solo mission, but seeing the roomful of operatives made him realize the Phoenix Society's meticulous planning. "Saturation operation" was a brutal term - they weren't just sending him into danger alone.

As Xu Zhenyue caught Lin Xian's eye and tapped the table, the room quieted.

"First, a brief mission background for Team Lin."

A holographic display activated, showing Crimson World intelligence with Julius Litt's image at center.

"Our intel confirms Crimson World's Asia-Pacific director Julius has collaborated with Dawn City through Wen Hui of Linglong Group for months. Details aside, we face an urgent problem."

The display shifted to show a massive humanoid anomaly corpse alongside data on Corrosion Cells.

"S-Class Entity #14 - the Gray Mist Walker - breached Sector B2-B3 of Wall One two weeks ago, killing over 30,000 and sacrificing 2,000 defenders. The 'Echo' motorcade recovered its corpse - actually a Crimson World front. Our special ops intercepted intel about Julius clones at White Deer Beach Observatory in Akasai, discovering Crimson World extracted live tissue samples of 'Umbra-Cells' from this S-Class corpse, successfully cultivating them at White City Base in Abyss 5."

"These cells revealed principles behind dark creatures converting dark incursions, achieving 18% shielding. But inactive cells provide incomplete data. Joint research suggests activating them to harness concurrent bio-potential effects could yield true dark incursion shielding solutions."

Xu Zhenyue continued: "The problem? Humans lack means to activate dark creature cells - except one."

"Mycelium?" Lin Xian guessed.

"Correct."

"Mycelium is essentially a dark creature. Crimson World previously established extensive research bases for live studies, but never attempted S-Class connections. This represents an extremely dangerous signal - human consciousness potentially linking directly to the Abyss, risking extinction-level catastrophe. We believe Crimson World..."

"Has already done it."

Lin Xian's team paled.

KIKI frowned. "You're saying this morning's attack relates?"

"More than that."

Xu Zhenyue manipulated the display to show Dawn City's western Abyss 5, southwestern Abyss 7 and southeastern Abyss 8 all exhibiting abnormal elliptical expansion, their dark tides warping as if drawn by massive gravitational pull.

"Sixteen hours since last night, simultaneous abnormal expansions occurred at Abyss edges. Yunlan, Longjiang, Luling, and Tianwei's Shenli City all reported anomaly surges. We conclude this connects to Crimson World's operations."

"Survivors from these areas now flood toward Dawn City. Numbers remain unclear, representing a dangerous development."

Lin Xian's expression darkened. "If they've already acted, what's Operation Crescent Moon's objective?"

"Intercept intelligence," Chu Yan interjected.

"Meaning?"

Xu Zhenyue explained: "Dawn City's Vanguard Initiative will utilize Entity #14's tissues. Activating Umbra-Cell connections may expose vast human data to the dark world, but conversely, whoever establishes this link might extract dark world intelligence. As Captain Zhou says, if darkness learns about humanity, we must achieve informational parity to survive the coming catastrophe. Our objective is clear: intercept 'Gray Mist Envoy' mycelium-linked dark world intel before the Vanguard Initiative launch. This data may prove crucial for human civilization's survival."

"Dawn City has severed all communication channels, recalling forces to Wall Two to protect the upcoming spaceport launch. With an S-Class entity's active cerebrum data at stake, such opportunities may never recur. We hold two advantages: First, Team Chu's psychic abilities can intercept intel upon target confirmation. Second, Captain Lin's mechanical powers can directly control brain-machine system self-destruct protocols while helping secure Dawn City's weapons control to prevent Crimson World or rebel exploitation."

"Our greatest challenge remains unclear Vanguard Initiative timing and Chu Zhaonan's next moves. Intelligence already detects Zhou Mingyuan, Wen Hui and other Federation elites operating covertly, possibly preparing to jointly seize the inner city with Crimson World post-launch. Regional threats have diverted some garrison forces. Thus this meeting serves two purposes: investigate Crimson World's Dawn City activities, and locate the Gray Mist Envoy!"

Zhou Jin interjected: "Could the Gray Mist Envoy be in Star City's underground? The launch requires proximity."

"Possible. Our Star City operatives detected no anomalies, suggesting they're only using partial remains for efficiency," Xu Zhenyue replied.

"Shouldn't we first confirm who's establishing mycelium links with the S-Class?" Qinuo asked.

"Simple," Lin Xian cut in. "Since Chu Zhaonan runs this, just hack his consciousness for both timing and operational details."

"Unfeasible. We've minimal intel on Chu Zhaonan's movements, and..." Chu Yan added, "Marshal Ye's meeting with him included me. His mental defenses are formidable - inaccessible unless asleep."

"Putting the Federation Chairman to sleep equates to kidnapping him," Qinuo flicked ash. "With Luo Ming's Seraphim team and layered guards, plus unknown whereabouts, this plan won't work."

"What about other Vanguard personnel?" Monica asked.

"The list is sealed. Only known is program director Su Jin and starfleet captain Chu Jing - Chu Zhaonan's son, a Naval Academy graduate and former Liao Fleet colonel," Chu Yan said.

"Wow, the Chairman's son must know then," KIKI remarked.

"Similarly, all Vanguard personnel are in absolute secrecy. Their whereabouts are unknown."

"So they could launch any second?" Qian Dele frowned.

"Exactly," Xu Zhenyue nodded. "We're racing against unknown time."

"Someone must know something... partially," Lin Xian reasoned. "General Xu, you said Zhou Mingyuan's faction may collaborate with Crimson World against Chu Zhaonan. Wouldn't they know Crimson World's current operations?"

"Correct. Which raises a thornier question: what cooperation exists between Crimson World and Dawn City's factions?"

"Logically, if the Federation has two factions, how can Crimson World work with both Chu Zhaonan and Zhou Mingyuan against him?"

"Maybe Crimson World also has factions?"

"Regardless, that's irrelevant now."

"I think we must consider it."

"Then targeting Zhou Mingyuan becomes viable," Qinuo agreed.

"Then we'll start there," Xu Zhenyue said, adjusting the hologram. "For efficiency, we'll proceed at multiple points." Addressing Chu Yan: "Your target is Zhou Mingyuan."

"Understood."

Qinuo volunteered: "Wen Hui's crucial. I'll take her. Nightwalkers have three teams for key officials among Night Patrol Guards and Population Control - all Zhou Mingyuan's faction."

"Another lead - Wen Dong participated in Crimson World's White City operations. He might yield something," another team leader suggested.

"But Wen Dong hasn't appeared in the inner city recently."

"I know where he is," Jiang Yun suddenly spoke up. "Galag Black Market. A mechanokinetic named Qin Feng is recruiting using Silver Star, causing quite a stir. Silver Star belongs to our alliance, previously controlled by Wen Dong at Star City Orbital Station. Its appearance among survivors indicates Federation connections."

"We've noticed," Chu Yan acknowledged. "Qin Feng has no Phoenix Society records. Other operatives are monitoring him."

"Because of mechanokinesis?" Lin Xian asked.

"Yes. The Phoenix Society is curious."

"So am I," Lin Xian admitted.

"I'll handle this," Zhou Jin declared. "My team will capture Qin Feng to trace Wen Dong."

"Good," Xu Zhenyue finalized. "Proceed accordingly. Establish comms channels and commence immediately."

Lin Xian looked puzzled. "General Xu, what about me?"

"Captain Lin, we'll need your assistance once developments occur. Leave investigations to our teams."

"Unacceptable," Lin Xian objected, drawing surprised looks. Gesturing to his squad, he continued: "If this concerns humanity's survival, having us wait here is too polite. We came knowing the dangers, and it's not even the most critical moment yet. Just investigations - we can contribute."

He turned to Zhou Jin: "Captain Zhou, let us join your Wen Dong mission. Mechanokinetics, Silver Star, Wen Dong - all connect to us." Smiling, he added: "We'd have gone anyway."

Xu Zhenyue nodded after scanning Lin Xian and Chu Yan. "Very well. But maintain cover. Federation attention could jeopardize subsequent plans."

"Easy enough," Lin Xian told his team. "From now on, we're Captain Zhou's recruits attending this recruitment drive to join 'Captain Qin's' service."

Post-meeting, as Lin Xian's team prepared to depart with Zhou Jin for Galag Black Market, Chu Yan intercepted Lin Xian privately: "I understand your thoughts, but know General Xu's decision stems from more than just safety concerns."

"What else?"

Chu Yan's mechanical body exuded faint gardenia fragrance, her weary face remaining composed. "Operation Crescent Moon's primary objective is intelligence acquisition - my main responsibility."

Lin Xian's eyes widened slightly in realization. "I see."

Though meeting for the first time, they interacted like veterans of countless life-and-death situations. "The city may soon descend into chaos, when identities won't matter. But until then, I must complete this mission. Time is short - stay safe."

Lin Xian nodded. "You too."

Galag Black Market also occupied the northern district amidst Dawn City's most congested survivor camp communities - dense clusters of post-apocalyptic architecture resembling concrete jungles.

Arriving with Zhou Jin's convoy, Lin Xian found several streets jammed with vehicles - mostly large motorcades heading north toward Qingbo City, the Phoenix Society's stronghold.

Long lines of survivors hoping to join major motorcades crowded the streets like human honeycombs, while others swarmed toward Galag Black Market. The Infinite Train recruitment event had spawned numerous smaller recruitment drives, attracting desperate souls seeking escape routes.

"Large motorcades exiting while small ones push inward - not a good sign," Jiang Yun observed outside.

"Worried that when big groups leave, smaller ones will be trapped awaiting three Abysses merging?" Lin Xian asked.

Jiang Yun sighed heavily. "The powerless suffer. Their options? Attach to large motorcades fleeing toward Dawn Center, or gamble on Wall One's stability. Even Phoenix Society assistance only has one Iron Guard Brigade - evacuating a million would be miraculous."

Lin Xian fell silent until Zhou Jin's voice came through comms: "Team Lin, we're approaching. Don power armor masks and assess before acting."

"Acknowledged."

Their dozens-strong convoy entered the chaotic black market complex, engine roars drowned by human cacophony.

The entire area resembled a giant hive - countless survivor vehicles crammed into narrow streets amid tents, modified trucks and rusted armored vehicles forming a metallic maze of despair. The air reeked of cheap fuel and rotting food.

Many motorcades parked key vehicles as recruitment centers, their displayed heavy artillery, railguns, anti-aircraft guns and machine guns serving as advertisements in this massive talent bazaar.

"Please! My daughter's waiting north..." A gaunt man knelt before the Dragonhunters recruitment desk, clutching the table edge until his knuckles whitened, his weathered face half-obscured by a dirty eyepatch.

"Sorry. Limited resources. You're too old and disabled. Try the Federation or Phoenix Society," the recruiter dismissed without looking up. Armed guards dragged the man away like trash.

"Next!" The recruiter's voice was mechanical.

Nearby, an armless veteran hefted a large rifle at another queue: "I can fight! Seventh Army veteran! Just give me a gun to defend the cars!"

Thud.

Someone urgently knocked on Lin Xian's window - a mother clutching a dehydrated toddler with bright eyes: "Can we join? I can sew, cook...my child won't disturb..."

Their convoy's superior equipment soon drew more beggars pounding on vehicles. Lin Xian's breath caught at the sea of terrified faces outside.

Pushing through the crowd, they reached a vast park square where dead trees had been cleared for motorcade encampments. Hundreds of armed heavy trucks surrounded the area, their weaponry drawing tens of thousands. At the center rested a silver nuclear locomotive - the Silver Star.

Someone had displayed this iconic Eternal-class nuclear trainhead as a show of strength. Behind it stood a fully-armed heavy train bristling with devastating weapons.

Above the square, drone airships projected a massive banner: [INFINITE TRAIN RECRUITMENT DRIVE!]

"Lin Xian, someone's recruiting teammates for you," KIKI joked.

Lin Xian's pupils contracted. "Then let's meet this like-minded Infinite Train captain."