Chapter 140: Qingli Emerges from Seclusion

After exiting the basement, Qin Yu returned to the room where she conducted her research on the antidote. Although she had already developed a formula capable of neutralizing the toxins of low-level zombies, she knew that the rate of zombie evolution far outpaced that of humanity. Therefore, she had to redouble her efforts.

She aimed to create an antidote for second-level zombie toxins before her brother concluded his seclusion, as this would provide her with greater security regarding the future.

Meanwhile, thanks to the efforts of Wang Bing and his team, the atmosphere in the base was unusually tense, yet it remained orderly rather than chaotic. Everyone was striving hard, preparing for the rumored crisis. For some, what was approaching was not a crisis, but an opportunity—a chance to establish a foothold in this apocalyptic world. Holding onto this belief, most were engaged in subtle, covert rivalries. As for the rest, they simply carried out their duties. Everything was proceeding in an orderly fashion.

Two days later, Qing Li emerged from seclusion. Qin Yu, who was in the basement researching the antidote, sensed his return immediately. She set aside the completed formula, smoothed her clothes, and walked out of the basement.

"Brother Li." Looking at the man before her, whose presence was as calm and still as a deep pool, her eyes brimmed with affection. She knew her brother had grown even more powerful.

"Yu'er, I missed you so much." Seeing Qin Yu, Qing Li stepped forward and pulled her into his arms, speaking with profound longing.

Qin Yu hugged him back. Everything seemed perfectly harmonious—until—

"Boss! You’re finally out! The brothers have been waiting so long!" Xue Qi’s boisterous voice rang out just before he stepped into the room. Seeing Qing Li and Qin Yu in an embrace, his face crumpled. *Why is it always me interrupting the boss? I’m done for; I’m going to be punished again!*

Qing Li cast a cold glance at Xue Qi, then adjusted his grip to hold Qin Yu’s hand instead. Feeling the softness of her skin, Qing Li squinted, his expression filled with contentment. Qin Yu sensed his pleasure and, though she didn’t understand the cause, she chose not to ask, knowing that anything making her brother happy must be good. In truth, she was certain it had something to do with her.

"Xue Qi, go gather the others. I can sense that *thing* will arrive in half a day," Qing Li said to the crestfallen man.

Xue Qi snapped to attention and immediately replied, "Yes!" before running off.

Qin Yu watched him dash away and laughed, "Brother Li, you scared him."

Qing Li ruffled her hair. "He deserves it." His words drew a burst of unrestrained laughter from Qin Yu.

"Oh, right, Brother Li, I’ve been researching that antidote. Would you like to take a look?" Qin Yu asked.

"Of course!" Qing Li replied, his eyes full of indulgence.

Qin Yu led him to her workspace and handed him the antidote she had recently concocted. Qing Li carefully sensed the energy within, a flash of surprise crossing his eyes. He looked at the expectant Qin Yu and said, "Yu'er, you truly are a genius!"

Qin Yu’s eyes curved into crescents as she said with a hint of pride, "Brother Li, you haven't even told me how it is yet!"

"Yu'er, this antidote of yours is far better than what that group at the research institute has produced! The energy within it is incredibly pure, without a trace of impurity!" Qing Li praised.

"Hehe, of course! I’m a genius in this field!" she boasted proudly.

Qing Li watched her, his eyes filled with warmth. His Yu'er was indeed a genius. Not only was the potion free of impurities, but it was also infused with the faint aura of her innate "Spirit of Life." She had managed to weave that power into the potion without even knowing how to control it. Was she meant to save this world? Of course, he kept these thoughts to himself, not even telling her about the presence of the Spirit of Life within the serum. He had his own plans.

Qin Yu trusted him implicitly and had no reason to doubt his words. She was simply happy that her antidote was perfected, meaning there was now one more ray of hope for her people.

"Oh, by the way, Brother Li, Old Xu came to see me a few days ago. He said his master sends his regards," Qin Yu suddenly recalled.

A dark glint passed through Qing Li’s eyes. "Old Xu’s master, you say?"

"Yes! And Old Xu said he knew you would understand who he meant," she added.

"I see," Qing Li replied with a smile.

"Hmm? Brother Li, who is it?" she asked curiously.

Qing Li looked up, as if reminiscing. After a long silence, he sighed softly. "A genius. And, I suppose, the greatest rival I have ever faced in this life."

Qin Yu’s eyes widened. She could detect the admiration in his voice, mixed with a hint of regret, but above all, the joy of finding a worthy opponent. She knew that person must be extraordinary; otherwise, her brother would not have such a reaction.

"Alright, Yu'er, don't worry about that man for now. If you ever meet him, remember: do not believe a single word he says," Qing Li said sternly.

Qin Yu nodded, agreeing to his request. At that moment, she could not have known that because of these words, that person’s future encounters with her would be filled with sorrow.

"Come, I imagine the others have arrived. Let's go out," Qing Li said tenderly, taking her hand.

Qin Yu nodded and let him lead her away.

When they reached the villa, over a dozen of their most trusted confidants were already gathered. As the two entered, hand in hand, the crowd’s expressions shifted from serious to mischievous. Qing Li caught their gazes and shot them a single look, successfully forcing them to look away.

He sat on the sofa with Qin Yu and addressed the group. "How is the training coming along?"

"Boss! The results are excellent! We are ready for inspection at any time!" Feng Ji replied.

Qing Li nodded in acknowledgment, then turned his gaze to Wang Bing. "And your task?"

Wang Bing looked slightly flattered. "Reporting! The message has been disseminated! The people in the base are standing by!"

Qing Li nodded, satisfied. After giving a few more instructions, he told everyone to get some rest tonight to be prepared for the fierce battle tomorrow. Hearing this, the group dispersed to rest; if Lord Qing Li called it a fierce battle, it would undoubtedly be exactly that.

Watching the now-empty villa, Qin Yu felt a flicker of worry. Sensing her anxiety, Qing Li pulled her into his arms and whispered, "Don't be afraid. You have me."

Qin Yu nodded, a faint, gentle smile gracing her lips.