C98 – Make a Child
Upon witnessing this, Zhang Xiaoloong swiftly discerned a path forward. Cradling the young wolf, he pursued the Wolf King.
Wolves boasted remarkable swiftness, particularly within their familiar territories. Fortunately, Zhang Xiaoloong matched their pace, tracking closely until they arrived at a secluded valley.
Despite the chill in the air, the valley retained warmth, warding off any sense of cold.
Guided by the Wolf King, Zhang Xiaoloong navigated twists and turns until they reached a secluded spot within the valley.
Halting his steps, Zhang Xiaoloong’s eyes gleamed with delight. Amidst this seemingly remote location stood an orchid, reaching knee-height, adorned with hues of green, yellow, and white.
The petals of the flower possessed a graceful elegance, evoking sheer joy in those who beheld it.
“This is...” Zhang Xiaoloong swiftly recalled from memory, “the Four Appearances Divine Orchid!”
Such flora was ancient, believed to have vanished long ago. To stumble upon such a treasure in this obscure locale was beyond expectation!
Gazing upon this exquisite flower, Zhang Xiaoloong found himself in a quandary once more.
Not only was the Four Appearances Divine Orchid visually captivating, but it also boasted an exceptional flavor. In antiquity, it had been discovered and became a favored delicacy.
Likely due to its desirability, this orchid had swiftly vanished from existence. To unearth one now hinted at its significant value.
However, the quandary lay in whether he was inclined to part with it.
“Regardless, I must secure it first!” Zhang Xiaoloong rolled up his sleeves and, with care, employed the Herb Growing Art before extracting it.
As he prepared to bid farewell to the Wolf King and depart, the creature unexpectedly seized him once more.
Zhang Xiaoloong, taken aback, followed the Wolf King to another location nearby, where a plant resembling medicinal herbs awaited his inspection, indicating the Wolf King’s desire for him to see it.
Observing the Hundred Year Spring Rejuvenation Grass, Zhang Xiaoloong immediately pondered its medicinal properties.
Despite the darkness, lights still illuminated most houses, indicating it wasn’t yet bedtime.
Upon entering the courtyard, Zhang Xiaoloong was greeted warmly by the wolfdog, which seemed to recognize him as a friend, rather than a stranger.
“Is Grandpa Zhuzi home?” Without the dog’s bark, he resorted to shouting, signaling his arrival to those inside.
If Wang Tiezhu wasn’t present, he’d have to return another time.
Initially wary of being alone with Lee Xiulian, now, faced with this dilemma, he hesitated to take such a risk again.
His concern extended not only to Lee Xiulian but also to himself.
“Who’s there?” Wang Tiezhu queried, poking his head out of the room. “Xiaoloong, what’s the matter?”
“Why mention it indoors?” Zhang Xiaoloong offered an apologetic smile.
Given the other’s demeanor, it seemed entry was contingent upon disclosing the issue.
“Come on, what’s on your mind?” Only then did Wang Tiezhu draw back the curtain, allowing Zhang Xiaoloong entry.
As they settled, Zhang Xiaoloong noticed Lee Xiulian’s absence, likely out visiting, prompting him to broach the subject.
“Lord Zhu, I won’t beat around the bush. It’s about Grandma Zhu; I need her help. I’ve been unable to find anyone suitable. Can you speak to her on my behalf? We can negotiate her salary once she agrees,” Zhang Xiaoloong earnestly requested.
“Salary? Is money the issue here? Our family didn’t point fingers at her for big earnings,” Wang Tiezhu countered. “But you know she can persuade me. Yet, asking me to persuade her? That’s beyond me.”
“Then consider this. Remember what you said? I’m representing our village. If I fail, Wang Yao warned me. The villagers are watching. They might not dare this again. If I don’t handle this properly, it could spell disaster for me,” Zhang Xiaoloong reminded.
“Sigh...” Wang Tiezhu sighed, appearing conflicted. He seemed to want to say more but held back. “What do you expect me to say? You already know.”
“It’s just a child. I’ll handle that aspect for you!”
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