This residence was huge, with two courtyards.
We were in the inner courtyard. In one of the rooms, I saw some dry rations and more than a dozen cases of bottled water.
Ma Tao had told me that he had prepared this food and drink. Years ago, there had been an epidemic. Every household had stayed shut inside their homes for two whole years. Back then, many families had failed to stockpile food and supplies, and they had been caught completely unprepared.
After that experience, many people had developed the habit of keeping essential supplies at home, so that even if something like that happened again, they would not be left helpless.
I asked Qianqian, "Can you contact them?"
Qianqian nodded. Curious, I asked, "Don't tell me you have a chip implanted too?"
Qianqian rolled her eyes. "What are you thinking?" She took a small device from her pocket. It looked more like an electronic car key. "This is a brainwave amplifier with directional receiving and transmission functions. I can use it to contact Dian Ling, but only Dian Ling."
Dian Ling must have given it to her.
I said, "Have Dian Ling bring some people and find a way to meet up with us. We'll stay here and move after dark."
Qianqian did not contact Dian Ling right away. Instead, she asked, "Do you really trust Ma Tao that much? If we call everyone over and he sells us out, they could wipe us all out in one go."
I hesitated at her words. Her concerns were not unfounded.
But I said, "They're just as vulnerable outside, and in broad daylight they're too conspicuous."
Qianqian said, "How about this? Have some of them come meet us, while the rest stay cautious and act on their own. Tell them to