Even though the place wasn't decorated with Lunar New Year ornaments, the festive mood was still in the air.
The basement and bunkers were filled with the rich aroma of smoke and delicious food wafting from stoves and bonfires. The dishes—steamed dumplings, egg drop soup, congee, pickled vegetables, and dried fruit cakes—were simple yet brought smiles to everyone's faces.
"Eggs! Eggs! Dan Dan likes them!"
"Honey, don't put any more in my bowl! You need the nutrients more than I do," Auntie Yang's husband chided gently, picking up the egg yolk and placing it in his wife's bowl.
The survivors formed small and large circles, chatting as they enjoyed their meals together.
The doors of the basement creaked open, and soldiers carrying crates and black-covered boxes entered. They set up enormous pots, making the survivors crane their necks in curiosity.
All of a sudden, one of the soldiers called out, "Get your cards, grab your bowls, and line up!"