Zhou You studied the man before him. Just the day before, the man was at death's door, but after merely a night's rest, he had recovered remarkably. Considering Dr. Zhao's analysis, this man's martial prowess must surpass his own. Such a skilled individual must come from wealth or prestige.

Clearing his throat and wearing a smile, Zhou You courteously asked, "May I know your name? We might not have been of much help, but we generously offered you our precious medicine. A small gesture of gratitude wouldn't be amiss, would it?"

Feeling fatigued, Shao Qi gestured, "Help me to the bed."

"Indeed, he's used to being served," thought Zhou You, noting Shao Qi's commanding tone. Nonetheless, Zhou You obliged, carefully guiding him those few steps, advising, "Take it slow... Watch your step..."

Once Shao Qi was settled, Zhou You draped a blanket over him. Shao Qi then said, "My surname is Shao. Send the leader of your group to speak with me."

"Shao? Which Shao?" Zhou You had recently heard a lot about this surname, making him a bit wary. Yet, he wouldn't dare associate this man with the legendary Marshal Shao.

Shao Qi ignored him, closing his eyes to rest. The energy inside him began to circulate rapidly, healing his internal injuries at a fast rate. The medics here only recognized his external injuries, unaware of the more critical internal damage he sustained. Otherwise, those minor wounds wouldn't have rendered him unconscious.

Zhou You knocked on the cockpit window, relaying Shao Qi's request for Captain Li. The driver scoffed, "Who does he think he is? Just because he wants to see our boss doesn't mean he can. Let him wait. Why's a dying man so demanding?"

Amused by the driver's audacity, Zhou You commandeered the radio, solemnly announcing, "Captain Li, it's Zhou You. Please come to the medical vehicle." Handing back the radio, he shrugged, "Thank you."

With his abilities, he could easily navigate through these mountains alone. But abandoning his compatriots, especially the vulnerable, wasn't an option as they'd surely perish without protection.

Overhearing the commotion, Shao Qi smirked slightly. So, the young man's name was Zhou You. He quite liked his temperament.

Author's note: Please like, bookmark, and recommend!

Zhou You: Anyone with the surname Shao must be significant.

Shao Qi: Admittedly, a tad more than you.

Chapter 018: Food is the Essence of Life.

Late at night, the convoy finally halted near a barren rocky hill. Amidst the lush greenery, this barren place stood out. Zhou You had never seen such a desolate spot, devoid of even a single leaf. The only plausible explanation was that the hill was entirely made of stone.

The passengers, dazed from a day's jostling, disembarked and began preparing meals. Soon, the aroma of cooking filled the camp. Most were famished. Each vehicle was equipped with dry rations, but no one wanted to consume them unless absolutely necessary.

Li Hongxi, accompanied by two deputy leaders, entered the medical vehicle. Zhou You, deemed unqualified for the discussion, was dismissed. So, he returned to his vehicle to help with the cooking.

He rehydrated dried mushrooms and diced cured meat. Stir-frying them together, he then made a savory rice dish and mixed fresh greens with lard. Even those who weren't fans of rice found their mouths watering.

After finishing his meal, Lao Qiaotou wiped his mouth and commented with a smile, "Zhou, I never expected you to have such culinary talent. Ever thought of becoming my apprentice? I plan to open a restaurant in Yang City. Everyone needs to eat. Nowadays, people have lost the passion for good food. In my opinion, eating is the highlight of life."

"Nonsense!" countered Zhan Cheng, savoring each bite. "What prestige is there in being a chef? No one would even acknowledge you outside. Learning engineering with me is far better. At least you can fix machines and equipment."

Zhou You jokingly said to the two of them, "I aspire to learn everything and know a bit of all skills. This way, when I'm out in the world, I can survive. Both of you, there's no need to argue; you can both be my teachers." These words warmed everyone's hearts, whether they were genuine or not. At the very least, they gave this group of ordinary individuals, often overlooked in society, a feeling of being valued.

Zhou You scooped two large bowls of rice for Dr. Zhao. Although there was a designated person to serve food in the medical vehicle, he figured Dr. Zhao might appreciate a change of taste.

When he arrived with the food, Dr. Zhao was sighing at a piece of grilled meat. He was the only 'commoner' in the group who could eat meat thrice a day. Despite the generous provision, the aged doctor struggled with the tough, over-grilled meat.

Dr. Zhao sniffed the air and looked eagerly at Zhou You's bowl, asking, "What deliciousness have you brought me?"

Handing the bowl over, Zhou You replied, "Nothing special, just some pickled vegetable rice. Would you like some?"

"Absolutely! It smells delightful. You have no idea how tedious it's been eating this bland grilled meat. I can't bring myself to ask others for a different dish." After taking a bite, he gave a thumbs up, "This tastes wonderful. Reminds me of my travels in Southern Fujian. I haven’t had a decent meal since our journey began."

"It's not too difficult, preparing homestyle dishes. All it takes is time."

"Do you have a chef in your vehicle? Believe it or not, many men don't know how to cook. When a group of such men gather, the food they produce is barely distinguishable from swill. I've tried it a few times; it's hard to swallow."

"I prepared this," Zhou You replied calmly. He didn't think cooking was that challenging, even grilling meat. Surely he could do a better job than the piece in front of Dr. Zhao.

A cough interrupted their conversation. Zhou You glanced at the newcomer, raising an eyebrow without uttering a word.

Shao Qi, seeing Zhou You with two bowls, had hoped one was for him. He too had received a large piece of grilled mutant beast, which unfortunately tasted quite average.