Leaning back with a smile, Zhou You teased, "So, I can now show off my powers, can't I?"

"You could even mess with me directly, what's showing off in comparison?"

"Good to know. From now on, I can strut around the country." Zhou You immediately warmed to the idea, thinking it would be nice to have an influential person by his side, ensuring no one would dare to cross him.

"Many in the team have been wondering, with the heavy snowfall, can the satellite still be launched?"

"Don't worry. The meteorological bureau has made calculations. The snow will likely stop by the day we reach Jiu City."

Zhou You, full of curiosity, asked, "They can predict that? Are they ever wrong?"

"They can be, but the chances are low. And unless it's extreme weather conditions, it won't affect the satellite launch. We've been waiting too long, and we don't want to wait till next year."

Chapter 171: Trap

Hearing about the prospect of entering the city ruins, everyone was both excited and anxious. They were eager to revisit the city of their memories, albeit in a devastated state. But there was also fear, knowing the ruins held many dangers. Regular teams wouldn't venture in as it was easy to let one's guard down amidst so many hiding spots, and a single ambush could prove fatal.

"Do we really need to go in? I mean, eating dry rations isn't so bad. I still have some cans of mutant beast meat left. Heated, they're delicious." Standing on a cracked road, Xuan Wei looked at the snow-covered city ruins.

The city was in ruins, with collapsed skyscrapers and abundant plant life. Perhaps due to the climate, the trees here weren't very lush, and they appeared bare this season, which was oddly comforting.

"Let's go in and look for supplies. But don't get greedy; we need essentials." Shao Qi led half of the group into the ruins, leaving the rest to guard the vehicles.

A few hundred meters away, some individuals were hiding in the snow, observing through binoculars. When they saw Shao Qi's group move, one whispered, "Send the signal. He's entered the ruins. The boss's prediction was right."

"But he's accompanied by dozens of men, each skilled in his own right. Can we really succeed?"

"Hmph, while they operate in the open, we lurk in the shadows. We've already set up traps inside and enlisted formidable mutated beasts. Their opponents aren't just us."

"Should we go in after them?"

"No need. We'll keep a close eye on the remaining group, wait for the right moment, and ideally eliminate them all."

"It might not be that simple. There's no need for reckless sacrifices. Our main goal is to halt their progress and eliminate their leader."

"Shush... Let's wait and see."

Zhou You walked ahead, everything appearing surreal to him. Compared to Da Gu Base, this ruin was better preserved. Traces from over a decade ago remained evident, like shops displaying posters from old trends, flags still flying in squares, and schoolyards with basketballs intact. Rumor has it that contemporary schools have reduced their sports programs, with physical education solely dedicated to martial arts training.

Walking through several streets, they encountered no mutated beasts. The thick snowfall seemed to have driven them into hiding, bringing a sigh of relief to the group.

"There's a convenience store here. Should we check it out?" Cheng Suyan used her sword to clear the snow blocking a store entrance. Its half-closed roller door revealed still-standing shelves, apparently stocked with goods.

Experienced as he was, Zhuo Hao tossed in a smoke grenade. The emitted smoke was thick and pungent, forcing even those wearing masks to distance themselves. Any living creature inside would undoubtedly be driven out, not even a cockroach could hide from it.

A flurry of small creatures poured out—mostly cockroaches and rats, some insects, and notably, a fairly large cat.

"This cat seems to be a mutated former pet. It's survived for over a decade, suggesting that animals' lifespans have extended too."

After waiting for the smoke to clear, the group entered the store. All the food items were gone, leaving behind things like water bottles, toys, and small appliances.

"I found some pairs of socks over here. Does anyone need any?" Everyone was short on socks and had little opportunity to wash them during their journey, making them a valuable find.

"I found some umbrellas and coat hangers... okay, I get it, not useful."

After searching, the only useful item Zhou You picked up was a thermos. Its exterior was rusted, but the inside was still good. It might come in handy for hot drinks on the go.

Next, they checked a large restaurant. Upon entering, they were met with a pungent smell of decay, and numerous skeletons. Presumably, people had once sought refuge here but eventually perished. In the kitchen, they took three large pots and some tableware, indicating how much they yearned for a warm meal.

"This place seems familiar. If we take a right at the next intersection, it should lead to the city hall. I've been here on a business trip," said Old Chen, trailing behind the group. He had previously mentioned having been to this city, which is why he knew the business and residential areas.

Being older, Chen had more life experience. Consequently, team leader Shao Qi invited him to join the group. Under his guidance, they found several shops, though useful supplies were sparse.

"Behind the city hall, there's a large supermarket. Should we check it out?" He asked Shao Qi.

Shao Qi glanced at the map. The area around city hall consisted of office buildings, many of which still stood tall. This meant more hiding places and potentially more danger.