Apocalyptic Flood: Sexy Beauty Neighbor's Midnight Plea for Food Chapter 1283 - 617: Zhuang Shuyuan Pays a Visit

Was it Baoshan City?

Zhuang Shuyuan was taken aback for a moment, a hint of surprise on her face.

She questioned with curiosity, "Have you already extended your reach to Baoshan City?"

Zhou Mei, a woman in her thirties, had once been the CEO of a listed company before the advent of the great flood. Following that catastrophe, she was apprehended and relegated to the status of a slave.

Despite her unassuming appearance, she possessed a commendable figure. It's possible her captors refrained from mistreating her to ensure a higher selling price.

She was later liberated by Liang Yuan, and after receiving medical attention from Lu Yuyan and Meng Youyou, she made a full recovery.

As a former CEO, Zhou Mei harbored a resolute personality. Once her physical and mental health were restored, she recognized the futility of depending on others. Consequently, she dedicated herself to diligently practicing the Yangshan Gene Activation Technique, aspiring to awaken a formidable superpower.

However, not everyone in this transformed world is fortunate enough to awaken a potent superpower.

The ability Zhou Mei ultimately awakened was merely a commonplace superior memory skill, granting her a photographic memory and the capacity to construct an expansive memory palace within her mind.

This capability might sound impressive, but in reality, any individual possessing sufficient Spiritual Power can achieve a similar feat.

The crucial distinction lies in the fact that regular Spirit Ability Users cannot preserve these memories for extended durations.

Conversely, Zhou Mei's ability empowers her to store memories indefinitely, with the option to erase or lock them away at her discretion.

In terms of direct combat application, this ability is virtually inconsequential.

Zhou Mei grappled with this disappointment for a considerable period until the Yangshan hierarchy initiated a comprehensive population census to document all surviving individuals. It was during this process that the Inspection Department discovered her.

From that point onward, Zhou Mei became an integral part of the Inspection Department. Zhuang Shuyuan held her in high regard and invested significant effort in her training. Presently, Zhou Mei stands as Zhuang Shuyuan's most trusted confidante.

A substantial portion of the Inspection Department's data and intelligence is meticulously processed by her before being presented to Zhuang Shuyuan.

As a result, Zhou Mei feels profound gratitude towards Zhuang Shuyuan. Without her intervention, a superpower user like Zhou Mei, lacking any combat prowess, would have faced immense difficulties in surviving, likely resorting to marrying for security.

In response to Zhuang Shuyuan's inquiry, Zhou Mei immediately affirmed with a nod, "Following the last Yangshan Conference, Mr. Liang specifically mandated that our Inspection Department's intelligence network should expand rapidly, transcending the limitations of the Yangshan area."

"After your return, you reiterated this point, and I have kept it firmly in mind."

"The intelligence concerning Baoshan City that we received this time did not originate from our own operatives within the city but was instead furnished by the Shadow Squad."

The Shadow Squad is a specialized intelligence unit established by Wu Ying, operating from the Dark Abyss Mouth. Every member of this team is a Dark Attribute Superpower User, possessing the innate ability to meld seamlessly with shadows.

While the Inspection Department functions as a conventional intelligence apparatus, Wu Ying's Shadow Squad represents an elite espionage force.

Their proficiency in the acquisition of news and intelligence is second to none.

Upon hearing this, Zhuang Shuyuan experienced a moment of sudden clarity. Wu Ying had previously served within the Inspection Department before his reassignment to command the Dark Abyss Mouth after Liang Yuan's restructuring of the region.

During his tenure in the Inspection Department, Wu Ying maintained a cordial relationship with Zhuang Shuyuan.

Given Wu Ying's astute perception, he had long discerned the intricate relationship between Zhuang Shuyuan and Liang Yuan.

Maintaining a clear understanding of his position, he dared not show any disrespect towards Liang Yuan's favored associate.

"What specific news have they provided?"

"The Yang Baoshan Base, Baoshan City's inaugural survivor stronghold, was the site of a monumental conflict. Beichen Island, at the head of a band of marauders, launched an assault on the Yang Baoshan Base, resulting in devastating casualties."

"At present, while the Yang Baoshan Base has not been completely overrun, it is teetering on the brink of collapse. Their expedition leader, Xu Haoyang, has dispatched an envoy to the Dark Abyss Mouth to solicit aid."

"Seeking assistance from the Dark Abyss Mouth? What were the inhabitants of Baoshan City contemplating? How did it occur to them to approach the Dark Abyss Mouth for help? Are they acquainted with Wu Ying?"

Zhuang Shuyuan was profoundly bewildered, unable to comprehend the motives driving the survivors of the Yang Baoshan Base.

Zhou Mei offered an explanation, "Minister, they stated that they are acquainted with Mr. Liang. Based on our current understanding, it is possible that Mr. Liang had some prior interaction with them during the competition for the Floating Island of the Abyssal Mouth, though the precise nature of their connection with Mr. Liang remains unknown."

"This matter may necessitate your consultation with Mr. Liang."

Hearing this, Zhuang Shuyuan realized that the individuals in question had indeed encountered Liang Yuan, which explained their desperate plea for help.

"Where is the individual who sought assistance?"

"They remain at the Dark Abyss Mouth. Wu Ying has not yet facilitated their transfer here, primarily due to concerns about potential misunderstandings with the forces in Baoshan City. We are still uncertain of Mr. Liang's disposition regarding this matter. He is hesitant to act without clear direction, thus detaining the individual is currently the most prudent course of action."

"Secondly, since the individual has not visited Yangshan before, locating this place would naturally consume considerable time. Therefore, it’s a more efficient approach for Wu Ying to directly transmit the intelligence," Zhuang Shuyuan stated.

Her gaze then shifted, and with a sudden laugh, she declared, "I will go and find Mr. Liang now."

"Understood."

With her reply given, Zhuang Shuyuan elegantly swayed her body and swiftly proceeded towards the Leader’s Mansion.

Ever since the conclusion of the last Yangshan Conference, Liang Yuan had been perpetually occupied with his cultivation, attending to state affairs, or spending time at home with Yang Mei.

A considerable amount of resentment brewed within Zhuang Shuyuan concerning this matter; that man truly paid no heed to her feelings whatsoever.

Now, presented with a valid pretext to see him, a flutter of giddiness stirred within her.

Upon reaching the Leader’s Mansion, the sentry at the gate offered a greeting. Zhuang Shuyuan offered a slight nod and inquired, "Is Mr. Liang present?"

"Minister Zhuang, Mr. Liang is not here today."

A frown creased Zhuang Shuyuan's brow as she pressed further, "Do you happen to know Mr. Liang's whereabouts?"

"He should be at his residence."

Hearing this, Zhuang Shuyuan's expression transformed once more, and a smile bloomed on her face as she immediately turned and made her way directly to Liang Yuan's home.

Meanwhile, within the confines of Liang Yuan's residence, Lin Ya was cradling a doll, while Yang Mei observed her with a focused demeanor.

"Once the baby arrives, there are specific techniques for holding them, for soothing them, and especially for feeding. I previously took some relevant courses on these subjects."

"Never attempt to feed them while they are lying flat; choking is a distinct possibility. It is far better to feed them in a reclined or semi-upright position."

Yang Mei could not help but exclaim, "Lin Ya, you possess such extensive knowledge."

Lin Ya offered a light chuckle, replying, "I merely acquired a small amount through casual learning."

Yang Mei inquired with evident curiosity, "You are neither married nor have children; why then did you pursue learning these particular skills?"

Lin Ya let out a sigh and explained, "I assisted in caring for my sister's child for a period, which prompted me to specifically enroll in these courses."

"Oh? Did your sister not undertake the care herself?"

Lin Ya sighed again, "She went through a divorce. In her pursuit of child custody, she relinquished a significant portion of her assets. Subsequently, she encountered financial hardships, and with her resolute spirit, her entire focus became consumed by her work."

"As I happened to have more free time during that juncture, my mother and I alternated in assisting her with the child. However, as you know with the older generation, their methods of childcare are often quite unscientific, which is precisely why I proactively sought formal instruction."

"Anyway, putting that aside, let me inform you, there is a great deal to understand about breastfeeding. Beyond the correct positions, post-lactation breast care is also crucially important for us women."

"Especially for individuals like yourself, endowed with a larger bust, if not managed properly, it becomes quite susceptible to sagging and other aesthetic concerns."

Upon hearing this, Yang Mei's demeanor instantly shifted to one of gravity, and she quickly asked, "Then, what measures should I take?"

She harbored significant anxiety regarding this aspect, being acutely aware of the specific physical attribute that Liang Yuan most admired and cherished.

Consequently, she placed immense importance on diligent breast care.

Lin Ya appeared to grasp something, her cheeks flushing slightly as she cast a fleeting glance towards Liang Yuan's room, quickly averting her gaze and preparing to impart further knowledge to Yang Mei on this subject.

At that precise moment, a series of knocks resonated from the door.

The two women immediately ceased their discussion and turned their attention towards the entrance.

Standing there was Zhuang Shuyuan, adorned in an elegant qipao featuring a blue-and-white porcelain print. A subtle smile graced her serene and beautiful countenance.

"Minister Yang Mei, is Mr. Liang at home?"

Upon witnessing Zhuang Shuyuan's presence, Yang Mei's expression underwent a perceptible shift, her smile vanishing entirely.

She had, of course, been privy to the circulating rumors concerning Minister Zhuang and Liang Yuan.

However, given that Liang Yuan had never brought the other woman to his home throughout this time, Yang Mei had largely chosen to disregard them.

Now, to have this woman appear at her doorstep unannounced, it truly felt like an outrageous transgression!

She resolved not to offer a welcoming gesture.

Yang Mei inquired with a sharp tone, "Is there a matter requiring your attention?"

Confronted with Yang Mei's frosty reception, Zhuang Shuyuan appeared unfazed, maintaining her smile as she responded, "The Inspection Department has received urgent intelligence that necessitates a report directly to Mr. Liang."

Given the official nature of the communication, Yang Mei found herself unable to dismiss her outright. However, she did not extend an invitation to come inside, instead turning to Lin Ya and stating, "Lin Ya, would you be so kind as to summon Liang Yuan for me?"

Lin Ya, completely oblivious to the underlying tension between the two women, sensed that an unusual atmosphere prevailed.

Without further questioning, she promptly rose and proceeded towards the private quarters occupied by Liang Yuan and Yang Mei.

As Lin Ya moved away, Zhuang Shuyuan's gaze was immediately captured by her graceful figure.

Her eyebrows knitted subtly as her thoughts turned to this woman's appearance and physique...

"Blast it, another one who fits his preferences!"

Zhuang Shuyuan felt a surge of secret irritation. It was no wonder Liang Yuan had ceased visiting her recently; another woman had entered his household!

She contemplated going back to scrutinize the records, seeking to uncover the identity of this mysterious woman.

This newcomer possessed skills superior to her own, having already seamlessly integrated into Liang Yuan’s household.

It appeared Yang Mei hadn't shown any opposition to her presence either!

Zhuang Shuyuan found herself genuinely perplexed by the methods this woman employed to coexist with the other women in the residence.

Without delay, Lin Ya approached Liang Yuan's door and knocked.

Liang Yuan emerged, inquiring, "Lin Ya? What is it?"

"Minister Zhuang from the Inspection Department is seeking you out."

Upon hearing this news, Liang Yuan's brows immediately knitted together. He turned his head towards the doorway, his gaze settling on Zhuang Shuyuan.

His countenance darkened instantly, and his attention then shifted towards Yang Mei.

Yang Mei displayed no trace of anger or any discernible emotion. Instead, she offered Liang Yuan a smile and stated, "See to your urgent matters. Lin Ya and I will save dinner for you tonight."

Liang Yuan met her gaze with a smile, stepped closer, and planted a kiss on her cheek, murmuring, "Wait for me."

"Mm."

Yang Mei's smile broadened; she grasped the significance of Liang Yuan's public display of affection in front of Zhuang Shuyuan.

As anticipated, Zhuang Shuyuan's smile faltered slightly, yet she remained obediently at the threshold.

"Go take care of your business," Yang Mei gently prompted Liang Yuan.

Liang Yuan offered another smile before turning and proceeding towards the exit.

"Let's discuss this outside," he stated to Zhuang Shuyuan, his voice a low rumble.

Zhuang Shuyuan’s heart fluttered, perceiving the anger simmering within Liang Yuan, which instilled a touch of fear in her.

However, she quickly reassured herself that this time, her visit was due to genuine urgency, not a deliberate intrusion.

She quickened her pace to follow Liang Yuan outside.

Just as they reached the bamboo steps, Liang Yuan abruptly spun around, his hand clasping Zhuang Shuyuan’s arm.

In a sudden movement, they were lifted from the ground, eliciting a startled cry from Zhuang Shuyuan.

Liang Yuan's velocity was astounding. By the time she managed to open her mouth, it was filled with swirling snowflakes.

Overcome with terror, Zhuang Shuyuan promptly sealed her lips, clinging tightly to Liang Yuan’s arm.

Before long, they had ascended into the wooded area atop the cliff.

Zhuang Shuyuan, unaccustomed to flight, found the experience terrifying, her legs trembling uncontrollably.

Liang Yuan's voice cut through the air, cold and sharp, "I distinctly recall warning you not to interfere in my personal affairs!"

He turned his head, fixing Zhuang Shuyuan with an icy glare.

Zhuang Shuyuan’s heart constricted, a powerful surge of fear washing over her.

She hastily responded, "I have urgent matters; there is truly something pressing."

Liang Yuan’s frown deepened as he scrutinized her. Only when Zhuang Shuyuan’s complexion had paled and she could barely endure his gaze did he speak again, his tone frigid, "You had better be telling the truth!"