Chapter 98 - 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.
However, upon closer inspection, he couldn't help but smile wryly.
Though the Wolf King's gesture was well-meaning, Zhang Xiaoloong felt he had no use for this item.
Just as he was about to decline, a notion flashed through his mind: while he might not require it, someone else might.
Despite not being a rare herb, finding wild Hundred-Year Rejuvenation Grass was likely challenging. Given its medicinal benefits, it surpassed artificially cultivated varieties in quality.
After deliberation, Zhang Xiaoloong decided to take some.
He planted the Four Appearances Divine Orchid and Rejuvenation Grass in the greenhouse, employing the Herb Growing Art once more as dusk settled.
The young wolf lay obediently beside the greenhouse door, marking its newfound territory.
Days prior, the wolf pack's howls had unsettled Qinghe Village, prompting residents to avoid venturing out after dark.
Rumors of Liu Changsheng's near-fatal encounter with the wolf circulated, shrouding the area in mystery. Some speculated a Wolf God protected the wilderness, punishing troublemakers.
Amidst the rumors, Liu Changsheng's potential arm injury fueled speculation, while Ermao's unscathed return only added to the intrigue.
Upon returning home, Zhang Xiaoloong found the elders awaiting dinner. Liu Mei, noticing his arrival, began discussing recent events.
Zhang Daniu dismissed the notion of any connection between Zhang Xiaoloong and Xiulian, suggesting Liu Mei's concerns were baseless.
Despite her husband's reassurances, Liu Mei remained puzzled by Xiulian's refusal of the money.
Understanding the necessity of personal intervention, Zhang Xiaoloong assured his mother he would visit Xiulian after dinner.
Zhang Daniu suggested widening the search for help if necessary, even considering enlisting assistance from a recently returned scholar.
Dismissing the idea of involving outsiders, Liu Mei argued in favor of seeking help from Elder Sister Lianzi due to her familiarity with their situation.
Unperturbed by his parents' debate, Zhang Xiaoloong finished his meal and headed towards Wang Tiezhu's house.
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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