Chapter 1762 Something Feels Off

"When used as currency, is the exchange rate fixed?" Li Luo further inquired about the base's specific circulation regulations.

"They say the exchange rate is based on the crystal core's level. A level one crystal core can be exchanged for two kilograms of coarse grains, while level three and above can be exchanged for fine grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, or even medicine," Qin Fenglin added. "There are water-based ability users in the base who can regulate the water supply, so water isn't scarce. The grain supply can be barely met by the planting area and the item replication ability. However, fresh fruits and vegetables are extremely rare and can only be obtained by exchanging crystal cores. Moreover, the base has very strict control over crystal cores. There is a special department responsible for identifying the level and unifying the exchange, all to regulate the circulation order and prevent people from confusing crystal core levels or arbitrarily raising prices and engaging in shady practices."

Lu Jingcheng gripped the steering wheel intently, a barely perceptible smile flashing in his eyes upon hearing this, as he lightly tapped his fingertips on the steering wheel.

This information is more crucial than expected, especially the limitations on the item replication ability and the base's rules for allocating and circulating crystal cores, which deserve attention.

Not long after, the convoy made a temporary stop by the roadside to rest. The team members dispersed to drink water and check their equipment, while Qin Fenglin and Li Nana chatted quietly on the side.

Using the stretching motion as a cover, Li Luo discreetly walked to Lu Jingcheng, who was inspecting the tires, and whispered:

"I have a feeling that something is off about that shapeshifter."

Lu Jingcheng didn't stop what he was doing. His gaze swept around the room, and he asked in a calm tone, "Are you worried it's a trap?"

“Hmm.” Li Luo nodded, his fingertips unconsciously curling up. “I’ve had a lot of contact with people from the Destruction Force. Almost all of their core members have a self-destruct mechanism and they would never be captured alive easily. A level four special type shapeshifter shouldn’t be so ‘obedient’ as to be locked up in prison. It’s too abnormal.”

"Perhaps the base has special methods that forcibly suppressed his self-destruct device?" Lu Jingcheng suggested another possibility.

“We can’t rule out that possibility, but the risk is too high.” Li Luo frowned slightly. “What if he deliberately allowed himself to be captured alive in order to lure the base’s higher-ups or outsiders with superpowers like us closer, so that they could launch an attack or spread false information? The consequences would be unimaginable.”

Lu Jingcheng straightened up, raised his hand to adjust the wrist buckle of his tactical glove, the metal buckle making a slight "click" sound, a hint of seriousness flashing in his eyes:

"Once we arrive at the base, we'll hold back for now. I can use my position to secretly gather information about this superhuman, including how he was captured and his condition after being imprisoned, before deciding whether to make contact."

Li Luo nodded approvingly:

"That's a safer approach. Regardless of whether it's a decoy or not, we can't let our guard down. Our top priority is to deliver the virus test kit safely; as for the rest, we'll observe first."

The two exchanged a glance, tacitly agreeing not to say anything more, and returned to their respective groups. On the surface, they seemed no different from before, except that there was a hint of wariness in their eyes.

After resting, the convoy set off again.

The armored vehicle drove smoothly through the ruins, the roar of its engine made all the more distinct by the occasional howls of zombies in the distance.

Potato in the back seat was still purring and enjoying Li Nana's gentle caresses, while Spinning Top lay motionless on his thick belly, as if it had also fallen into a light sleep.

Shi Xinxin and Chu Yuanqing discussed in hushed tones how to deal with the "true form of superpowers" and the "shapeshifting" superpowers, their tone filled with caution.