Ice Age Apocalypse: I Hoard Billions of Supplies

Chapter 421: Bai Xue Jiao's Expansion

While life at the Shelter settled into a peaceful routine, the same couldn’t be said for other factions.

Bai Xue Jiao was rapidly expanding, using the weakened territories of Chaoyu Base and Yangsheng Base to spread their doctrine and recruit survivors.

“Join Bai Xue Jiao, and enjoy safety, abundant food, and equality for all!”

“Join Bai Xue Jiao, escape the cycle of reincarnation, and find eternal bliss in the Divine Kingdom!”

“Join Bai Xue Jiao, cleanse your sins, and be reborn anew!”

In the harsh reality of the apocalypse, people sought two things above all: material sustenance and spiritual solace. Bai Xue Jiao’s promises offered both, making their message irresistibly appealing.

The movement grew at an alarming rate, swelling its ranks with disillusioned survivors eager for hope.

A group of gray-robed ascetics led by Grand Decree Zhao Jianhua arrived, cutting a solemn figure against the snowy backdrop. Zhao Jianhua leaned on his staff as he surveyed the ruins.

The only building in Yuelu still inhabited was Building 18, where the residents had barely scraped by using the bodies of the dead and Li Jian’s Sacrifice Ability to grow food.

But there was a price for Li Jian’s newfound powers: complete allegiance to Bai Xue Jiao.

When Zhao Jianhua approached, Li Jian immediately gathered the surviving residents to greet him.

“Greetings, esteemed Grand Decree!” Li Jian exclaimed, his eyes brimming with reverence.

Behind him, his wife and sixteen-year-old son peeked curiously at the ascetics. On their previous visit, these figures had only interacted with Li Jian briefly, granting him the Ice Soul and departing hastily. At the time, the area was under West Hill Base’s control, forcing them to remain discreet.

Now, with the major factions crippled or destroyed, Bai Xue Jiao operated openly, their missionary efforts unhindered.

Zhao Jianhua regarded Li Jian warmly. “Li Jian, I see the Snow God’s gift has served you well.”

“Praise the Snow God! Praise the benevolent Leader!” Li Jian bowed deeply. “Thanks to your blessing, we’ve managed to survive!”

The Grand Decree’s gaze drifted past Li Jian, lingering momentarily on his son, Li Kaile, before returning to him with a smile.

“I bring good news,” Zhao Jianhua said. “By the Leader’s decree, you and your people are invited to join us in Tianfeng District. There, you will live with the Leader and our devoted congregation.”

Li Jian and the others exchanged puzzled looks.

“Tianfeng District?” Li Jian repeated. Though it wasn’t far, they had grown accustomed to Yuelu and were wary of the unknown. In the apocalypse, change was often more frightening than death.

“Don’t be afraid!” Zhao Jianhua reassured them. “Tianfeng is a paradise in this desolate world, a haven where we help one another and rebuild together. It will soon become a utopia, untouched by the apocalypse.”

“You’ve been chosen. It’s a privilege few are granted,” Zhao Jianhua said, his gaze resting firmly on Li Jian.

“The Leader herself has spoken of you, Li Jian. She admires your abilities and believes you are indispensable to Bai Xue Jiao’s future. If you come with us, you and your family will receive special care.”

Li Jian’s mouth fell open in astonishment. He couldn’t believe the Leader herself had mentioned him. It was the highest honor imaginable.

Among the residents of Building 18, Bai Xue Jiao had already achieved an almost divine reputation. After all, they owed their survival to the Leader’s blessing, which had enabled Li Jian to awaken his abilities.

Overwhelmed with gratitude, Li Jian dropped to his knees.

“Praise the great Snow God! Praise the Leader! I, Li Jian, will dedicate my life to Bai Xue Jiao!”

Zhao Jianhua nodded approvingly. “Rise, my child. Gather your family and belongings and join us in building a new home.”

Excitement rippled through the group as they hurriedly packed their clothes and food supplies. More than fifty residents of Building 18 prepared to leave Yuelu, their hearts filled with hope for a better future.

The journey to Bai Xue Jiao’s base in Tianfeng District was grueling, but the thought of a utopia kept them moving through the relentless snow.

Upon arrival, they were greeted by a bustling settlement. Priests and ascetics maintained order while distributing food and clothing to newcomers. Others taught the doctrine of Bai Xue Jiao, their words inspiring awe and devotion.

Li Jian noticed several people holding strange red fruits, their glistening crimson surfaces resembling polished gemstones. He had never seen such a fruit before.

Though curious, he brushed it aside, too focused on the joy of reaching their destination.

After settling the group, Zhao Jianhua turned to Li Jian.

“The Leader wishes to see you personally,” Zhao Jianhua said.

Li Jian hesitated, glancing at his wife and son. “What about my family?”

“They will be well taken care of,” Zhao Jianhua assured him.

His wife, Zhang Jianfang, encouraged him. “This is an honor! Go meet the Leader. We’ll wait for you here.”

Reassured, Li Jian followed Zhao Jianhua toward a grand cathedral. The other residents were guided elsewhere by smiling nuns.

Pushing open the massive cathedral doors, Li Jian felt a sense of reverence.

Though the sky outside was overcast, the interior seemed bathed in a divine glow. The room was dim, save for the altar, which was illuminated as if by some unseen light source.

A woman in a white robe stood before the altar, her back to him, her posture radiating devotion.

To Li Jian’s surprise, the object of her worship was a crucifix bearing the image of Jesus Christ.

Zhao Jianhua coughed lightly, sensing Li Jian’s confusion. “The Snow God manifests in many forms. The divine image reflects the faith of its followers. Do not dwell on such details.”

Li Jian quickly nodded. “Of course. I understand.”

He knew the truth. This was St. John’s Cathedral, once the heart of Tianhai City’s Christian community. Bai Xue Jiao had seized it and adapted its religious imagery to suit their needs.

Li Jian was no fool, but he wasn’t about to question the doctrine openly.

Bai Xue Jiao’s blessings had saved his life, and that was all that mattered. The rest was just theatrics.

Author's Note

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