Many people hadn't eaten meat for over a year. Although there were canned meats available at the exchange points, each can cost five points, while half a day's wages only earned three points. Those who needed to support a family were reluctant to spend, while those who didn't needed to live each day as if it were their last, leaving no savings. Furthermore, due to the current scarcity of resources, the canned meats were in limited supply, with only a small amount available each day to prevent hoarding and reselling. Thus, when a group of people who hadn't eaten meat for over a year saw a wounded tiger lying on the ground, they were tempted to take dangerous risks. Whether for personal consumption or for trading, they felt they couldn't lose.
Given their numbers and the fact that the tiger was heavily injured and bleeding, they believed it would be easy to handle. Many had brought knives to work to defend against both beasts and people, and they thought that with knives in hand, they should be able to deal with an injured tiger.
However, things did not go as planned. Instead of easily killing the tiger, they ended up causing casualties. The tiger, whether through clever deception or its hunting instincts, lay still and seemingly lifeless as the group approached. Yet, once within range, it sprang into action with a sudden counterattack.
The group, who might not have even slaughtered a live chicken before, was terrified by the tiger's sudden and aggressive move and dropped their knives, fleeing in all directions.
When Xu Ge arrived following the sounds, he found one person already on the ground, their abdomen torn open, intestines hanging out, and still convulsing. Despite the person's instinctive attempts to reach out for help, they were on the brink of death, and such severe injuries were beyond saving even in the past. Another person nearby had severe scratches on their back from the tiger, with wounds deep enough to see the bones, and their thick clothing was torn apart. Xu Ge immediately shot and killed the tiger, then went to drag the still-survivable person onto the vehicle. He left two people to guard the already-dead individual and called for a corpse removal vehicle to handle the cleanup.
The incident was quickly reported in the internal police notifications. As the internet was not yet fully open to civilians, only military personnel could access it. The notifications were meant to alert other soldiers to be more vigilant, as wild beasts had been roaming more frequently lately. It was uncertain whether they were attracted by the scent of humans due to extreme hunger or were seeking shelter from the cold. Over the past week, at least ten people had fallen victim to these beasts. Whether the tiger had caused these deaths was unknown, and an autopsy would be necessary to determine this.
In addition to the tiger, a group of hyenas had been shot dead a few days ago, although a few had escaped. The hyenas were too fast, often disappearing behind buildings in the blink of an eye. Soldiers could only aim and shoot from their vehicles, as getting out was too dangerous. Vehicles were no match for the agility of these four-legged creatures. This was why patrols in the area had increased, and why Xu Ge could immediately mobilize people after receiving photos from Mu Nan.
Although Mu Nan's voice sounded calm, Qin Huai still came home early that day. When there was a noise at the door, Mu Nan was startled, as it was neither his brother's nor Jian Chu's usual time to finish work. When he opened the curtain and saw Qin Huai entering the yard, he quickly ran downstairs and opened the door before Qin Huai could do it himself. "You're home early today!"
Qin Huai looked around, checking both Mu Nan and the dog, Niu Niu, who was with him. Despite knowing that the dog was innocent, he couldn't help but feel a slight discontent. He wondered if the tiger had lingered at their door because it smelled the dog. Although he knew the tiger's presence and the dog were coincidental, it was hard not to make the connection. Today, with the network operational, Mu Nan could contact the military immediately. Without it, Mu Nan would have had to seek help elsewhere. If Niu Niu had barked while alone at home, it would have been even worse. Even though everything was fine now, Qin Huai was still shaken by the thought of what could have happened.
Seeing Qin Huai's expression, Mu Nan understood his concern. He quickly said, "Fortunately, Niu Niu was here today. You wouldn't believe it, but I didn't even notice any disturbance outside while I was watching a movie. Niu Niu was extremely alert and immediately on guard. Maybe the sound from my movie attracted the tiger. Aren't their hearing abilities quite sharp?"
Qin Huai, who was about to comment, found Mu Nan's defense of Niu Niu amusing. "I haven't said anything yet."
Mu Nan hung Qin Huai's heavy coat on the second-floor drying rack. "It's best not to say anything. Niu Niu is so smart, and can understand everything. It's a pity he's not my dog."
Soon, the incident was included in the military's internal report, which Qin Huai, with his access, read and shared the details with Mu Nan. He also advised, "So if you see an injured wild animal outside, even if it's badly hurt, you should never approach it carelessly. Look at these people— they serve as a warning. Even if you see an animal lying still in the snow, don't approach it. If it's dead from the cold, we don't eat it, and if it's not, it's still dangerous. These are all bloody examples."
Mu Nan glanced at the report, which only had text and no pictures, and he wasn't interested in reading further. "I won't be going out alone. I'll always be with you."
Qin Huai said, "It's important to be aware of such situations. What if you end up being as foolish as these people?" He then added, "By the way, the person who died was someone we knew."
Mu Nan was surprised. "We knew him? Was he from the team that relocated here?"
Qin Huai shook his head. "Deng Yichuan, male, twenty-four years old, matches the age and name. He was your elementary school classmate, the one you suspected of cutting the wires of the sick family's home. Although it's not confirmed if he was the one who did it, he was the most active back then. There was a fifty percent chance. It's unfortunate that he survived until now, only to lose his life to a tiger."
Mu Nan believed it was indeed him, even though he had no proof. The person was gone, so discussing retribution seemed unnecessary. He could only sigh and reflect on the unpredictability of fate.
Qin Huai's concern about linking the tiger to Niu Niu was shared by Wu Zheng and others. Raising a dog was a sensitive issue in the current context. If their dog caused an accident for their neighbors, it wouldn't just be Qin Huai's problem; they wouldn't forgive themselves either. Additionally, the weather had become increasingly cold. Previously, the lowest temperature in the south was around minus ten degrees, but now they were experiencing temperatures below minus twenty. With temperatures continuing to drop, Wu Zheng decided to let Song Jia stay home with Niu Niu, avoiding the hassle for neighbors, since they had enough points.
Mu Nan was somewhat disappointed. "I just started to bond with Niu Niu."
Song Jia said, "Anyway, we're the only ones at home during the day, so you can come over anytime to play."
Since the civilian network hadn't been fully opened yet, Jian Chu had a trial account, but Song Jia didn't. So Jian Chu gave Song Jia a wireless intercom to keep in touch in case of emergencies, as shouting across buildings wasn't feasible.
Without Niu Niu's small tail wagging behind him, Mu Nan felt a bit unaccustomed. If it weren't for these troubled times, he would have already adopted a dog by now. His original plan was to get a dog after graduation, once his life was stable. However, he quickly adapted to the new situation, as the government had announced that the local network would officially open next Monday. Network accounts would cost three points per month, and phones would be available at the exchange points for fifteen points each, with the first month's network fee waived.
There was a note stating that the network would be a local area network with limited coverage, offering some entertainment resources but not many. New modules, such as supply information, job postings, and a missing persons platform, would be introduced. A poster detailing these was displayed outside the exchange points, allowing many people to see it.
Mu Nan remarked to Qin Huai, "With the wages being so low, and with rent, utilities, and daily expenses all needing points, now they've added network and phone usage. Those modules probably aren't entirely free; there must be paid services."
Qin Huai said, "That's certain. The supply and demand relationship should never saturate the market. Demand drives progress; otherwise, if one could earn three points with just half a day's work and have their meals and rent covered for ten points, living would be too easy. With just twenty points a month, one could live comfortably with surplus points. If points had no expenses, people would be content with the bare minimum, and no one would want to work hard."
The restoration of the network, even if just a local network, was a sign for many that life was getting back on track. Consequently, many who had once found old phones and computers among the ruins were now regretting their choices. Some had left these items behind, deeming them too heavy or useless, similar to how some people discarded winter clothing. Now, seeing others profit from their foresight, they wished they had taken those items.
Mu Nan and Jian Chu had cleared out a phone store, taking boxes of new, unopened phones, computers, and tablets. These were now stacked in Jian Chu's garage. Jian Chu planned to use this opportunity to exchange those non-essential items for points and stock up on winter supplies.
Selling the items directly was more cost-effective than turning them in. Sometimes, when Jian Chu and the others returned from work, they saw people setting up stalls in the freezing cold, selling new phones for twenty points and used phones for fifteen points. However, the extreme cold made it difficult to test the old phones, so many preferred new ones.
The exchange point had limited quantities and daily quotas. People who relied on phones were eager to use the network, even if it was just to observe others chatting online. Many had lost or damaged their phones during the earthquakes and subsequent chaos. Those who still had working phones only needed to recharge their network fees, while those without phones had to buy new ones. Even low-end phones that were once affordable could now be bought for twenty points each, making them appealing to those who previously couldn't afford them.
Entertainment and satisfaction are always essential, no matter the time.
To avoid potential theft, Mu Nan and Jian Chu couldn't handle the sales alone. Yu Zibai and Wu Zheng couldn't all be on duty either, so they had to arrange shifts. Qin Huai took a day off to ensure Mu Nan wouldn't have to set up the stall alone.
They set up near Building No. 1 in a clear, open area. The weather was relatively mild that day with just snow and no strong winds. They constructed a simple shelter and displayed their stock: phones in one pile, tablets in another, and computers in a third, all new and unopened. Prices were set reasonably but not cheaply—eighteen points for a phone, twenty-five points for a tablet, and thirty points for a computer.
When the price signs went up, many people returning from work or browsing the makeshift market gathered around. Jian Chu quickly announced, "Selling cheap, selling cheap! Pay points here and pick up your device over there. You can open the device publicly to check it. If there's any damage to the screen, it will be replaced immediately. No after-sales service once you leave the stall!"
Some complained, noting that the exchange point only charged fifteen points for a phone and included a month of network service. Jian Chu responded with a smile, "There are phones for twenty points over there as well. Feel free to check them out. We're selling phones for eighteen points, and we don't negotiate. Let's settle this quickly in this cold weather."
Mu Nan, hiding behind Qin Huai, chuckled, "Jian Chu is really cut out for business."
Qin Huai adjusted Mu Nan's mask and scarf more securely. "Everyone has their strengths."
Mu Nan asked, "And what's my strength?"
Qin Huai pretended to ponder before answering, "Eating."
If it weren't for the thick clothing, Mu Nan would have pinched Qin Huai. It was hard to take him seriously.
There are always people who don't mind spending money. In no time, Jian Chu sold several phones. Xu Ming handled point collection, while Mu Nan and Song Jia handled device inspection and unboxing. Qin Huai, Yu Zibai, and Wu Zheng kept watch. Even though they priced their items slightly higher than the exchange point, they ensured that the phones were not damaged and offered exchanges on the spot if necessary.
Fortunately, the opened phones were in good condition, and the screens were intact. Although they couldn't be turned on due to the cold, their surfaces looked fine, so the likelihood of internal issues was low. Buyers were pleased and went to the exchange point to pay for their network service and head home.
After a busy day, they sold a significant number of phones and tablets. The laptops remained unsold, possibly due to their higher price or perceived inconvenience. But that was fine; as more people bought phones, they could list the laptops later for sale or reserve them for future use.
In the past, counting money was the most satisfying task. Now, counting points was even more fulfilling. Jian Chu examined each point carefully, ensuring they were stamped and genuine. The points were divided among the four of them, but Xu Ming suggested, "Let's divide it by headcount from now on. Splitting it four ways always gives me the most."
Jian Chu smiled and handed Xu Ming his share of the points. "It's fine. It's a sign of our support for single people. We won't be picky."
Xu Ming had a valuable skill, especially in these chaotic times. After settling in, he continued his work as a surgeon, earning the highest salary among them, even more than Qin Huai. Therefore, he wasn't overly concerned about the points. Even if he received more than his share, he often bought scarce items to entertain guests. After all, human relationships involve reciprocity, and taking advantage of someone often results in feeling guilty.
The stall was open for just one day. Since Qin Huai and Xu Ming had taken a day off, and they had sold a considerable amount, they decided to keep the remaining stock for now. They could either sell it online later or keep it for themselves. There was no rush.
After distributing the points, everyone else went home. Qin Huai hopped onto a small tricycle and invited Mu Nan to join him.
Jian Chu, seeing them preparing to head out so late, asked, "Where are you going at this hour? It's getting dark."
Qin Huai replied, "We earned some points, so we're heading to the exchange point to stock up on supplies. It's more reassuring to trade for tangible goods."
Jian Chu nodded and waved them off. He and Yu Zibai planned to go as well, but they decided to wait a couple of days since they were exhausted from the day's work and had lost their voices from shouting.
Mu Nan had never been to the exchange point before. Having heard about it from Qin Huai, he was contemplating what to exchange for. Although he had most of the items in his space, he felt uneasy about not converting the hard-earned points into tangible goods. He wasn't sure if it was a hoarding habit or a lack of security in the current world, but he felt that points alone weren't reassuring. He preferred to exchange them for items he could store in his space.
The exchange point was set up in an empty lot in the neighborhood. It was a small heated room with several large blackboards at the front, listing available items and their point values. Some items were already marked as sold out, such as canned goods and rice, which had been snapped up as soon as the doors opened in the morning. This was a symptom of post-disaster anxiety—people were anxious about not stocking up enough food. Other items like yellow beans and green beans had fewer buyers, so they were still available in the evening. Air conditioners and fans, which had been in high demand in summer, were now largely ignored. Besides these, there were also televisions, refrigerators, and washing machines, though it was unclear how well they were selling. Given that they were still available late into the evening, they probably weren't in high demand.
Mu Nan looked around and thought there wasn't much left worth exchanging. "How about exchanging for some green beans and yellow beans? I can process them at home. Anything I can't sell, I'll just eat myself."
Qin Huai agreed, "Let's do it. Two points per pound. We'll exchange for ten pounds. Anything else you want?"
Mu Nan circled the blackboard and saw some beverages. "There's also this cereal I like." He had it in his space but figured it was worth getting more, since future availability was uncertain. He felt that exchanging points for something he liked wasn't a waste.
Qin Huai said, "Then let's get it." The large packages containing fifteen small bags each were ten points per package. Although the price was a bit high, a warm bowl of sweet cereal on a cold day was comforting and provided energy. Mu Nan picked out what he wanted, and Qin Huai went to the counter to settle the points and collect the items. An older woman standing nearby, clutching a bag of cornmeal with a look of disdain, commented, "Young people these days waste money on things that don't fill you up."
Qin Huai usually ignored such comments. If someone was merely expressing annoyance, it was no big deal. Persistent nagging, however, could lead to trouble. Fortunately, such people were rare. Most either kept their opinions to themselves or only spoke behind people's backs.
Mu Nan returned after browsing, feeling like he hadn't exchanged for much. He was left with a sense of dissatisfaction, thinking he hadn't spent enough points.
Qin Huai suggested, "How about we get some preserved chicken? Are you interested?"
Mu Nan hesitated, "What if it doesn't taste good?" He was generally not fond of preserved foods.
Qin Huai assured him, "I'll make sure it tastes good." Seeing Mu Nan's hesitation but knowing he wanted to spend more points, Qin Huai decided to get one for him.
The items were loaded onto the tricycle, and Mu Nan covered them with a cloth. As he prepared to check if Qin Huai was done, he noticed someone approaching too closely. Instinctively, he shouted "Brother!" and ran forward but slipped on the icy ground and fell.
Qin Huai immediately rushed out but couldn't reach Mu Nan in time and watched helplessly as he fell.
The commotion drew the attention of soldiers inside, who came out to check if there was a robbery at the exchange point.
Qin Huai helped Mu Nan up from the ground. "Did you hurt yourself? Move your limbs to see if everything's okay."
Mu Nan looked back and saw it was the same woman from the store, but her face was obscured, making it hard to recognize her. She seemed to be approaching with a raised hand, which startled him. He reassured Qin Huai, "I'm fine. I'm well padded."
Qin Huai sighed in relief and turned to the woman, speaking coldly, "Is there something you need?"
The woman, surprised by the reaction, said, "I didn't mean to scare you. I was just asking if you're selling the cereal you bought earlier. I have too much of it and was hoping to exchange some of my points for a few small packs."
Qin Huai helped Mu Nan into the tricycle and flatly refused, "Sorry, we need all of it ourselves. You can get it at the exchange point if you want."
Qin Huai then drove away from the exchange point without engaging further with the woman. The cold weather made it unwise to waste time on unimportant matters. The woman continued calling out, offering three small packs for one point.
Mu Nan, sitting in the back, rolled his eyes. "A pack has fifteen bags. She wants three bags for one point. Might as well give it away for free."
By the time they got home, it was completely dark. Fortunately, the trip had been uneventful, and the snow outside had just started to intensify. Qin Huai parked the tricycle by the door and said, "In the future, I'll just take photos of what you need at the exchange point. You should stay at home."
Mu Nan grumbled, "How was I supposed to know someone would suddenly come close? It was so dark outside, and we were buying things. My instinct was to run. You don't even appreciate that."
As Mu Nan prepared to jump off the tricycle, he suddenly slipped. Qin Huai quickly reached out to help him. Although the yard was cleared daily, a thin layer of snow had accumulated. Qin Huai was worried about the slippery ground and grabbed Mu Nan to prevent him from falling.
Hearing the commotion outside, Jian Chu ran to their balcony to look out and saw Qin Huai and Mu Nan hugging in the yard. He was startled and immediately pushed Yu Zibai, who had also come out to check, back inside. Even though he knew they weren't biological brothers, this sudden shift in their relationship needed some transition.
Mu Nan was held by Qin Huai, preventing him from falling again, but as soon as he hit the ground, he couldn't help but clutch his waist. "I think I twisted something."
Qin Huai firmly decided that any future outings would be avoided if possible.
After parking the tricycle in the garage, Qin Huai saw Mu Nan struggling to climb the stairs, moving slowly like a tortoise. He quickly went up, removed Mu Nan's outer garments, and threw them on the stairs. He then turned his back to Mu Nan and said, "Come on up. If you keep moving at this pace, you'll probably have trouble getting out of bed tomorrow."
Mu Nan climbed onto Qin Huai's back. Having a brother was great—he could reach the third floor in one go without much effort!
Jian Chu felt it was necessary to discuss the relationship issue with the neighbors. If they really were in that kind of relationship, they would need to be cautious to avoid misunderstandings. So, he sent Mu Nan a message early in the morning: "Have you woken up? What did you buy yesterday? I need some reference."
Mu Nan, lying in bed, replied, "Yellow beans, green beans, and a preserved chicken. Have you ever had bean thread? I found a blender before, so I plan to soak some green beans and try making it myself. It'll be dry and long-lasting and should be filling."
Jian Chu responded, "I've had it but never made it myself. Teach me how to make it. I'll also go get some green beans. When are you planning to make it? Should I come over later?"
Mu Nan replied, "In a couple of days. I need to rest for two days."
Jian Chu joked, "Does setting up a stall require two days of recovery?"
Mu Nan sighed as he typed, "My back hurts I need to lie down for two days."
Jian Chu, reading the message, muttered to himself, "So it's confirmed. No need to hint around anymore!"