Chapter 81: Commissioner Niu's Spring

Jing's mother was simply too honest. When she showed kindness, it was genuine, unlike Jing Shu, who was often more calculating.

Sometimes, Jing Shu even wondered if she was a villain from some author's story. Why else would she do things typically favored by antagonists? Emmm...

"Okay, scarcity increases value. We’ll just bring a pound of strawberries then."

"The little chubby kid loves nuts. We'll also bring a pound of cashews, nutritious and tasty."

"Commissioner Niu's household isn’t lacking in water or electricity, and probably not in common vegetables either. Let's also bring a small jar of pickles and thirty eggs."

Eggs had become scarcer than vegetables. The poultry farms were wiped out, leaving only a few free-range chickens in rural areas and some poultry kept alive in government-operated climate-controlled facilities.

Similar to agriculture, the livestock sector now primarily served the upper echelon, a luxury inaccessible to most, just like pre-apocalypse luxuries were available to only 3% of the population.

At 3 PM, the family, carrying gifts, set off to express their gratitude—not to suck up, of course.

Commissioner Niu's residence was in a civil servant’s complex in the city center, home to mid-level and senior bureaucrats.

The complex was next to the Second Armed Police Detachment, patrolled around the clock. No cars were allowed inside. The family was led in by Commissioner Niu himself, and everyone had to scan their IDs—security was tight.

Each building had a temporary public restroom that was spotlessly clean, and there were sporadic street lights around.

Arriving on the fifth floor, they were greeted by Mrs. Niu. The interior was bright and tidy, clearly well-maintained and devoid of any foul smells, with the thermostat set around 26°C, indicating the air conditioning was on.

"You've timed your visit just after dinner—earlier would have been nicer," Mrs. Niu, dressed in a red skirt with her hair casually pinned back, greeted them. Although she complained, she was actually pleased that they hadn’t come during mealtime, unlike others who brought useless gifts like tea or antiques during meals.

After introductions and small talk, Mrs. Niu summoned her son, who was practicing the violin, and served tea and snacks including candy, sunflower seeds, and remarkably, cherry tomatoes.

The Jing family didn’t beat around the bush with empty words of thanks; they showed their gratitude through actions.

"Here are some roasted cashews, since the little one likes them. They’re nutritious and better than ordinary snacks."

The boy’s eyes sparkled as he sweetly thanked "Jing Shu sister."

Mrs. Niu smiled warmly, and Commissioner Niu quietly exhaled in relief, finally seeing his wife pleased, unlike previous guests.

"We’ve also brought some homemade pickled vegetables. They’re really tasty. Given the current shortage, it's nice to have something different."

The couple eagerly tried the pickles and were amazed by the flavor, noting how well it would complement any meal, especially since vegetables were scarce.

"Your son mentioned you love strawberries, so we brought some. It's not much, but we’ll bring more next time."

Mrs. Niu’s excitement was palpable, endearing her further to the Jing family as she doted on her son for remembering her favorite.

"Last time, the frogs you sent were a hit. They've taken care of all the bugs at home, and our son has found a new hobby. We owe you one," she said, hinting at the previous favor.

When the Jing family presented eggs, Commissioner Niu mentally noted a promotion for Mrs. Jing. Mrs. Niu, delighted, resolved to treat her husband to a special night.

Unaware of the impression they’d made, Mrs. Jing wondered why Commissioner Niu looked so excited in the following days.

Commissioner Niu discreetly mentioned a few leaders’ preferences and the agricultural focus areas that could use special attention, giving Mrs. Jing insights into upcoming policies.

After a hearty insistence from Mrs. Niu to stay for dinner, the Jing family politely declined, citing urgent matters at home.

"Looking back, I realize how naive I was. Now I understand why people climb the ranks so quickly," Mrs. Jing reflected on the drive home.

The following day, Mrs. Jing returned to work, secured by police escorts for government officials.

As new policies rolled out to stabilize society by ensuring food access for all, Mrs. Jing no longer had to venture far for poultry feed—local vermin served the purpose.

That day, as Jing Shu was preparing a corn feast with Mrs. Jing, a call came in that seemed almost life-threatening.

"It's Wang Qiqi. Jing Shu, can you drive over to Wucheng County to pick us up? I can get you some steel and wire. Wang Dazhao has killed several people—those who sold him bad vegetables causing his wife’s death. He's not doing well... please come check on us!"

Jing Shu frowned, "What are you doing there? What's that noise?"

"There’s been a killing. Wang Dazhao took revenge on that group, but he’s also gravely hurt. Hurry!"

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Afterthoughts

Thanks to Yunshan Youyou and others for your support.