18 Floors Above the Apocalypse

Chapter 272

As Rosie stepped into the water, she gasped, gripping the wooden edge of the hot tub. "Jasper, I'm floating." "Don't be scared, Rosie. It's normal to float in hot springs."

Once she adjusted to the sensation, Rosie brightened. So, this was what it felt like to be in a hot spring.

They were sunbathing and soaking in the hot spring, each of them sipping fresh lemonade; it was hard to describe the sense of contentment.

The vegetation around the lake, nourished by the spring water, was lush and vibrant, noticeably more so than elsewhere. The three of them started to explore around the lake and, sure enough, they discovered numerous herbs, all of them flourishing. That night, they pitched their tents not far from the lake. After soaking in the hot spring, Rosie, completely relaxed, fell asleep quickly.

The warm spring water was beneficial to their health, and Stella took advantage of the night to gather some. They emptied the water tower in Arcadia, replacing the water with the hot spring water. Now, they could enjoy a hot spring soak whenever they returned home. They had plenty of water towers and various containers, enough to last them for several years.

After soaking in the hot spring, they slept extremely well. Stella guessed that if it hadn't been for Cooper keeping watch, they might have been carried away without even realizing it.

They spent three more days exploring the deep forest, collecting every potential medicinal plant they found.

With the climate becoming increasingly harsh, many young plants were barely clinging to life. Even in Arcadia's favorable environment, not all could be saved. If these species died out, it could be a case of extinction.

Upon returning to the city, Stella made a special trip to Griffith's post at the Institute of Traditional Medicine. Collin wasn't there, but there were staff members on duty.

They examined the young plants Stella had brought and recommended some nutrient solution and growth hormones. "We often encounter this situation. You can try these. They can increase the survival rate of the young plants."

The solution was developed by the Institute, and it had already been used in their greenhouse. It wasn't free, but they could barter food or young plants for it. The Institute had a government subsidy. They might not be rich, but they definitely wouldn't starve. The young plants were what they needed most. Stella took out extra herbs from her backpack. "I'll exchange these for the solution."

Stella swapped 30 plants for a bottle of nutrient solution and growth hormones. Both parties were satisfied. Carrying the solution, they

their house had fared. As they drove into the residential area, they noticed a man lurking near the entrance of their property.

sound of the car startled the man, who bolted, quickly disappearing around

coming from their front

and chased after the man. Worried about his

the corner to see their dog pouncing on the man who had hidden in the corner of

as man and dog fought. Stella, like a released arrow, rushed out of the car, landing a few

bite wounds, and Stella's punches had knocked out a few of

echoed around them, making Jasper feel

commotion, rushed over. "What's

master and he could end this man's life, having a taste of his warm, freshly killed leg. The man, his windpipe crushed, wet himself in

on the man lying on the ground. "You have one chance to save your life. Choose

with fear. "Please...

told you to do

holding a grudge against you for hitting her and for shamelessly flirting with Bran. She was so angry and wanted to teach you a lesson." Stella remembered Julia. She didn't associate with the wealthy, but because Austin

family had thrown a pool party for their daughter Julia

learning a lesson from the last beating, Julia resented Stella even more for Bran sending things,

lie. "I work for her family. Miss Julia promised me 10 pounds of rice, but she's

"I've seen him. He really is

whole story, the patrol team felt awkward. What should they