Chapter 7: Strengthening Resolve
A week had passed since Lin Chen had opened his store. Word had spread, thanks to the previous group of customers, and more people began to appear at his doorstep, drawn by the promise of supplies and safety. Business was steady, and Lin's inventory of crystals continued to grow. However, not all visitors came with good intentions.
Several attempted to rob the store, but Lin quickly made an example of them, using his powers to dismantle any threats with brutal efficiency. These incidents sent a clear message: Lin Chen was not to be trifled with. The store's reputation as a place of both refuge and formidable defense was solidified.
Despite the influx of customers and the store's growing notoriety, Lin Chen couldn't shake a nagging thought. He was powerful within the confines of his store, but outside, he was just another survivor. His safety and dominance were not guaranteed beyond the protective walls of his establishment.
One evening, after the last customer had left, Lin Chen sat in the quiet of his store, pondering this problem. He needed to become stronger, not just to protect his store but also to secure his survival in the chaotic world outside.
With a determined sigh, he pulled up his system interface.
---
#### **System Interface: Wealth of God System**
- **Host:** Lin Chen
- **Level:** 2
- **Experience:** 900/2000
- **Crystals Collected:** 500 Tier 1 Crystals
- **Store Inventory:** Basic food, medical supplies, ordinary weapons
- **Store Upgrade:** Complete
- **Current Abilities:**
- **Spatial Storage (Tier 1)**
- **Enhanced Strength (Tier 1)**
**Store Status:**
- **Defense:** Active (Immune to outside attacks)
- **Inventory:** Infinite
- **New Features:** Lounge Room (Allows customers to eat and drink)
**Upgrade Options:**
- **Strengthen Powers:** 200 Tier 1 Crystals
**Strengthen Powers:**
- **Upgrade Talent:** D-tier to C-tier
- **Upgrade Strength:** Level 1 to Level 2
---
Lin Chen's eyes focused on the new option: **Strengthen Powers**. Below it, a detailed notification explained the benefits.
---
**System Notification: Strengthening Powers**
- **Upgrade Talent:** From D-tier to C-tier
- **Upgrade Strength:** From Level 1 to Level 2
- **Cost:** 200 Tier 1 Crystals
---
Without hesitation, Lin Chen selected the option. A confirmation prompt appeared, and he accepted it. He felt a surge of energy as the system began the upgrade process.
---
**System Notification: Upgrade in Progress...**
**Upgrade Complete!**
---
Lin Chen felt a profound change within himself. His body tingled with new strength, and his mind seemed sharper, more focused. He quickly pulled up the updated interface to see the changes.
---
#### **System Interface: Wealth of God System**
- **Host:** Lin Chen
- **Level:** 2
- **Experience:** 1100/2000
- **Crystals Collected:** 300 Tier 1 Crystals
- **Store Inventory:** Basic food, medical supplies, ordinary weapons
- **Store Upgrade:** Complete
- **Current Abilities:**
- **Spatial Storage (Tier 2)**
- **Enhanced Strength (Tier 2)**
**Store Status:**
- **Defense:** Active (Immune to outside attacks)
- **Inventory:** Infinite
- **New Features:** Lounge Room (Allows customers to eat and drink)
**Upgrade Options:**
- **Strengthen Powers:** 200 Tier 1 Crystals
---
Lin Chen's talent had been upgraded from D-tier to C-tier, and his strength had increased to Level 2. He felt the difference immediately—his movements were quicker, his senses keener, and his spatial storage capacity had expanded significantly.
As the week progressed, the steady stream of customers continued. Lin noticed more and more people showing respect and caution when dealing with him. His store had become a beacon of hope and a symbol of strength in the apocalypse.
One evening, after another busy day, Lin sat in his lounge, sipping on a cup of coffee. He reflected on his progress and the path ahead. The system had given him a unique edge, but he knew he couldn't rely solely on it. He needed to continue growing, adapting, and preparing for the challenges to come.
The future was uncertain, but Lin Chen was confident. He would rise above the madness and ensure his survival and dominance in this new world.