Apocalyptic Flood: Sexy Beauty Neighbor's Midnight Plea for Food Chapter 1273 - 607: Culinary Skill and Courting Allies

In the living room, Yang Mei was already in the process of arranging the table settings.

Shen Yunxi moved with haste, bringing out dish after dish.

Lin Ya, donning an apron familiar to Yang Mei, emerged from the kitchen cradling a simple bowl of loofah and egg soup.

She couldn't help but voice her surprise, "I hadn't imagined you'd have loofah stocked in your refrigerator."

Liang Yuan offered a smile, "The Ministry of Agriculture has commenced cultivation efforts, a detail you perhaps weren't aware of?"

Lin Ya shook her head, "No, I haven't observed any loofah available for purchase at our complex's supermarket."

"It hasn't been released to the market yet."

As Shen Yunxi continued to ferry dishes, one exquisitely prepared item after another found its place upon the table.

Shrimp paired with asparagus, spinach and egg rolls, steamed cod, stir-fried yam with black fungus, and blanched kale.

The number of dishes might not have been substantial, but their presentation was undeniably refined.

With the culinary spread complete, Lin Ya addressed Liang Yuan, "Mr. Liang, these selections are all conducive to the early stages of pregnancy."

"The asparagus served with shrimp, for instance, contains folic acid, instrumental in averting neural tube defects in developing fetuses."

"Regarding the spinach and egg rolls, the eggs provide essential protein, while the spinach is also a rich source of folic acid."

"Steamed cod is prepared in a clean and hygienic manner, and the fish itself offers vitamin B6; it's a pity we lack lemon juice, as it would elevate the flavor profile significantly."

"Then, this poached kale is intended to supplement calcium, a common deficiency among pregnant women in their initial trimester."

"Finally, this yamaimo and wood ear mushroom stir-fry, where the yamaimo serves as a carbohydrate source, and the wood ear mushroom aids in iron supplementation, with both being highly suitable for expectant mothers."

Liang Yuan observed her culinary efforts with a degree of astonishment.

Setting aside the taste for a moment, the visual appeal alone was truly captivating.

Her cooking style diverged from Yang Mei's more traditional, home-style approach.

Lin Ya's inclination was clearly towards the refined and less common, with even the plating exhibiting a certain meticulousness.

It was evident that she had invested considerable effort in studying and mastering these techniques.

Furthermore, the nutritional balance was remarkably comprehensive, demonstrating an understanding of the specific nutrients within each ingredient.

Frankly, this level of insight was beyond the comprehension of most individuals.

Yang Mei chuckled, remarking, "This is indeed a lavish spread. Hurry, young man, come and sample Lin Ya's culinary prowess."

With that, she proactively selected a piece of asparagus with her chopsticks and offered it towards Liang Yuan's mouth.

Liang Yuan savored the bite; the asparagus retained its crispness and delicate flavor, preserving much of its natural essence.

It appeared to have undergone an initial blanching before a swift stir-fry with the shrimp.

The seasonings were discreet, yet the resulting taste was exceptionally pleasing.

A sense of admiration washed over Liang Yuan. He cast a glance at Lin Ya, gave her a thumbs-up, and declared, "Remarkable."

Lin Ya, who had been feeling apprehensive, visibly relaxed, a subtle smile gracing her lips.

Yang Mei, also smiling, prompted, "Don't just stand there; come, sit, and join us for the meal."

Lin Ya and Shen Yunxi exchanged brief, hesitant glances before taking their seats to dine.

The meal proceeded with a certain degree of subdued atmosphere, though Yang Mei skillfully navigated the interactions. Lin Ya, for her part, seemed less intimidated by Liang Yuan's presence compared to Shen Yunxi.

Shen Yunxi kept her gaze fixed on her food, participating minimally in the conversation.

Liang Yuan casually posed a few questions to them regarding their professional endeavors.

The dining concluded with expediency, and Yang Mei cheerfully announced, "You all continue chatting; I'll handle the cleanup of the dishes."

Lin Ya swiftly rose to her feet, protesting, "Allow me. You are currently pregnant."

Yang Mei laughed lightly, "I'm not quite that fragile yet."

She then directed a subtle glance towards Liang Yuan's direction, inquiring, "Don't you have matters you wish to discuss with Liang Yuan?"

Lin Ya paused, her lips forming a slight pout, then nodded in agreement, "Well... alright."

The moment Yang Mei departed from the dining table, the atmosphere shifted, becoming notably more subdued.

Neither Lin Ya nor Shen Yunxi mustered the courage to initiate conversation.

Liang Yuan took a sip of the loofah soup and remarked, "Lin Ya, your culinary talents are quite impressive. It suggests you've undergone formal training."

Upon hearing this compliment, Lin Ya responded promptly, "Yes, I possessed an interest in gourmet cuisine and sought instruction from a professional chef."

Liang Yuan nodded, continuing, "Therefore, you are also well-versed in pregnancy-related dietary needs?"

"Indeed, my dishes are typically prepared with a light flavor profile, making the majority of them suitable for pregnant women."

"Excellent. In that case, Sister Mei's dietary regimen will fall under your purview."

Lin Ya immediately affirmed, "Certainly. Please rest assured. With my care for Yang Mei, there will be no lapses."

Liang Yuan offered a slight nod, stating, "I am familiar with your character, which provides me with great confidence. As for your professional pursuits, I will liaise with Professor Li later. Once your responsibilities in caring for Sister Mei are concluded, you may report to the R&D department."

Both Shen Yunxi and Lin Ya looked up simultaneously, their eyes meeting, and unmistakable expressions of joy dawned on their faces.

Lin Ya quickly rose and expressed her gratitude to Liang Yuan with a bow, "Thank you, Mr. Liang."

Liang Yuan responded with a relaxed tone, "No need for such formality; after all, we are neighbors residing within the same district."

With that thought, Lin Ya couldn't help but recall the moment Liang Yuan descended from the balcony while she was bathing. A faint blush colored her cheeks. Adjusting her hair, she remarked, "Yes, we are neighbors. It feels like a connection from a past existence." Indeed, before the great flood, she never could have fathomed becoming acquainted with Liang Yuan. After the cataclysm, when Liang Yuan unexpectedly entered her home, she certainly didn't foresee that their brief encounter would pave the way for his future immense power. Reflecting on it now, the entire sequence of events feels somewhat dreamlike.

Liang Yuan, too, found his mind drifting to a striking image: a bathrobe, seemingly suspended in mid-air, its edges outlined by spiritual power. Beneath this body lay a physique akin to a treasure, capable of stirring any man's heart. Even Leng Yuehua, a woman, was not immune to its allure, underscoring Lin Ya's undeniable attractiveness.

Liang Yuan cleared his throat, opting to steer the conversation in a different direction. "Have any of you been in recent contact with Leng Yuehua?" he inquired.

Lin Ya and Shen Yunxi exchanged startled glances.

Lin Ya responded with surprise, "Mr. Liang, may I ask why? Is there news about Yue Hua?"

Shen Yunxi quickly added, "No, no, ever since we relocated to Yangshan, we haven't received any word from her."

Liang Yuan subtly observed their reactions. Their expressions seemed genuine, lacking any hint of deception. He offered a slight nod. "You both understand Leng Yuehua's stubborn nature; she holds a deep disdain for all men. I nearly ended her life last time. If she survived, I have no doubt she's plotting her revenge."

Lin Ya and Shen Yunxi's faces shifted subtly.

Lin Ya quickly reassured him, "Mr. Liang, please be assured. If she appears in Yangshan, we will notify you without delay and ensure she doesn't act rashly."

Shen Yunxi promptly echoed the sentiment, "Mr. Liang, our decision to let her go privately last time has settled any past debts for saving us. If she causes trouble again, we absolutely will not shield her."

Liang Yuan perceived sincerity in Shen Yunxi's words. However, Lin Ya's resolve seemed less firm. He suspected that if she discovered Leng Yuehua's whereabouts or any significant news, Lin Ya might discreetly warn her, urging a reluctant retreat rather than informing him first to handle the situation.

He gave another slight nod. "If she comes for me directly, it holds little consequence for me. Even with a year or two more of cultivation, her abilities won't pose a threat to me. However," he continued, his gaze sharpening, "if she resorts to desperate measures to harm those close to me as a form of revenge, particularly Sister Mei and the others, understand that I will not show her any mercy."

His eyes fixed on Lin Ya with pointed significance. "Sister Mei has shown you considerable kindness, Lin Ya, and genuinely regards you as a dear friend. I trust you won't let your compassion inadvertently lead to Sister Mei being harmed by Leng Yuehua."

Lin Ya's expression flickered, and she bit her lip, saying, "Mr. Liang, I can swear an oath."

Liang Yuan chuckled, shaking his head as she prepared to swear. "There's no need. I understand your character. My concern is that Leng Yuehua might manipulate you, hence this specific reminder. Rest assured, if she contacts you, inform me immediately. I promise not to harm her once she's apprehended. But if she contacts you in secret, and you fail to notify me, leading her to take drastic actions, do not blame me if I disregard our neighborly ties."

Lin Ya nodded slightly and promptly responded, "Please don't worry. If there's any news of her, I will inform you immediately and prevent her from acting rashly. Yang Mei and I get along wonderfully; I truly consider her a good friend."

"That's good. It's getting late; allow me to escort you back."

Shen Yunxi quickly interjected, "Oh, no, we can manage on our own."

Lin Ya also politely declined, "Yes, yes, we can certainly go back by ourselves."

Liang Yuan smiled. "I'm still uncertain of your exact residence. In the event of any future incidents, I need to be able to locate your home. Let's go; consider this a preliminary reconnaissance." He mentioned this to Yang Mei, who replied from the kitchen. He then accompanied the two ladies outside.

Leaving the cliff area, they proceeded towards the Fire Bamboo Forest. Liang Yuan expressed a degree of surprise, noting the scarcity of residences within the Fire Bamboo Forest itself. The majority of residential structures were situated outside the forest, nestled in the mountain cove. Within this cove, development mirrored that of the Sunshine District, featuring numerous administrative buildings, commercial centers akin to a CBD, and various entertainment venues. Only a handful of residences were occupied by the earliest settlers. These properties had evolved into highly coveted locations, commanding exorbitant prices in points, making them exceedingly difficult to acquire.

Lin Ya, perhaps sensing Liang Yuan’s bewilderment, quickly offered an explanation: "We haven't amassed sufficient points to secure a permanent residence yet. The areas surrounding the Fire Bamboo Forest have already been developed, leaving no available plots for construction."

"Furthermore, residing too far would create logistical challenges for commuting to the R&D department and the Weapon Factory. Therefore, Yunxi and I opted to use some of our points for a rental here."

Shen Yunxi chimed in, adding, "The rent escalates significantly the closer the dwelling is to the main complex."

"Thankfully, the construction department undertook the development of high-rise apartments in this vicinity, otherwise, there would be a severe shortage of rental accommodations."

Liang Yuan was already aware of this situation. He recalled how Old Ma, observing the overwhelming demand for housing within the Sunshine District, had instructed the construction department to maximize space by erecting numerous multi-story apartment buildings directly in the sunlit zones.

These structures comprised twelve stories each, built against the mountainside, with every floor containing scores of individual units.

In total, three such buildings stood, and each unit spanned approximately twenty square meters, a size deemed adequate for basic living needs like sleeping and dining.

It was also common knowledge that most residents here possessed some level of savings and rarely bothered with preparing their own breakfast, opting instead to dine at the communal canteen located on the ground floor of the complex.

Consequently, this area primarily served as a space for rest, sleep, and personal hygiene.

Liang Yuan gave a nod and stated, "I will arrange for someone to scout for unoccupied dwellings just outside the Fire Bamboo Forest and reserve one for you."

"Consider it a small token of my gratitude for your kindness towards Sister Mei."

Upon hearing this promise, both Lin Ya and Shen Yunxi's countenances lit up with evident joy.

The Fire Bamboo Forest was situated immediately beyond the mountain cove, and with the cove itself now completely occupied and transformed into the Sunshine District, no space remained.

The land bordering the cove, being in proximity to the Sunshine District, was naturally commanding exorbitant prices, with rates per square meter reaching premium levels.

Naturally, for those unconcerned about location, ample living spaces could be found at greater distances.

With the proliferation of individuals possessing awakened superpowers, the issue of travel distance had become less of a concern for many.

As for public safety, there was little to worry about; the entirety of Yangshan was under heavy military presence, and non-combatants – the elderly, infirm, and weak – had been safely relocated to the Mirage Snake Space.

However, for these two young women, the unparalleled convenience offered by the Sunshine District was an undeniable preference.

Therefore, the prospect of Liang Yuan securing them a residence, particularly one adjacent to the Fire Bamboo Forest, was naturally met with great excitement.