Uncle Li looked embarrassed. "Let her speak for herself."

He didn't have the face to say it himself. The only reason he had come along was because he couldn't stand being tormented by Wu Guihua. Instead of letting her cause trouble for everyone, it was better to come to Cheng Duo and have everything explained.

"What can't be said?" Wu Guihua shrunk her neck a bit, still a little afraid of Cheng Duo, but with so many people present, she said, "I'll say it! If you hadn't bought our land, we wouldn't have been able to gather so much silver… Without the silver, we wouldn't have fallen for the scam. You coincidentally appeared while the scammers were deceiving people. Who knows if you were working together with them?"

Wu Guihua's voice was small when she said the last sentence, probably afraid that Cheng Duo would get angry. But quickly, she regained her righteous tone. "If you hadn't come, the villagers wouldn't have been able to afford to buy our land, and Feng Ge's forced marriage wouldn't have happened. If you have any conscience, you should return the land to us!"

Cheng Duo was speechless. "According to your logic, if I bought grain from an old man in the village of Twenty-Li Slope, who would not have gone home if I hadn't bought it, and he had an accident on the way home, does that mean I'm responsible for his accident?"

He glanced at Uncle Li and the elders behind him. "If that's the case, I should go out and make it clear to everyone. From now on, anyone who buys goods from the villagers of this village should be careful. The transaction is not complete with just the exchange of silver and goods. You should ask how the other party will take the silver home and how they will spend it, otherwise, you might be blamed."

Uncle Li and the elders were extremely embarrassed. If Cheng Duo really said that, would the people of Village still have the face to go out and sell grain?

"It's not the same!" Wu Guihua instinctively retorted.

"What's different? Didn't we complete the transaction? Did Li Man Cang take the silver home? Let's say, if you didn't want to sell, but I forced you to sell?" Cheng Duo, as a modern person, had abundant theoretical knowledge. Even if he didn't have a valid argument, he could still make Wu Guihua speechless!

Cheng Duo followed one question after another, leaving Wu Guihua unable to answer. In the end, she could only sit on the ground and cry out loudly, "I don't care! It's your fault for buying our land! We've lost all our silver, our land, and Feng Ge's dowry! You've caused us such misery, and you refuse to return the land. Are you forcing our family of four to hang ourselves at your doorstep? God, I can't live anymore. Outsiders bully the people of our village, and even the elders in the village turn a blind eye. I can't live anymore…"

Cheng Duo wasn't afraid at all. "Okay, your family of four can hang yourselves at my doorstep. Do you want me to prepare the ropes for you?"

Wu Guihua froze for a moment, then continued to cry and wail loudly, cursing at the same time. In the past, she would cling to the victim, but she didn't dare to do that in front of Cheng Duo. She could only sit on the ground, crying and complaining.

"Cheng Duo…" Uncle Li couldn't stand seeing him speak so rudely, so he tried to interrupt.

Cheng Duo was well-prepared for this. Seeing Uncle Li intervene, he suddenly changed his tone. "If you want the land back, it's fine."

Upon hearing this, Wu Guihua quickly got up from the ground. "Really?"

"Of course," Cheng Duo said, changing his tone again. "But the forty-one taels of silver for buying the land, the two taels for the land deed to be handed over to the authorities, as well as the wages and accommodation for the three days of managing the fields… let's say it's three hundred wen in total. A total of forty-three taels and three hundred wen. Bring them here, and I'll give you the land deed."

"Why should we pay the two taels for the land deed? And this little amount of work doesn't deserve three hundred wen!" Wu Guihua retorted.

"We have a deed, and it wasn't me who changed my mind about the sale. I'm not even asking for compensation for the lost work. If you think it's unreasonable, shall we go to the authorities and discuss it?" Cheng Duo asked.

"You…" Wu Guihua didn't dare to go to the authorities. She had heard what her family's head said, that Cheng Duo was powerful and even the constables in the authorities would give him face!

Cheng Duo then asked Uncle Li, "Do you think the price I mentioned is reasonable, Uncle Li?"

"It's reasonable," Uncle Li nodded impartially and scolded Wu Guihua, "Wu Guihua, Cheng Duo has already paid two taels of silver for the land deed, and I witnessed it with my own eyes. Now Cheng Duo is willing to return the land. You shouldn't cause trouble unreasonably."

In fact, during the process of exchanging the land deed, Cheng Duo had given more than just silver. Invisibly, he had intimidated the constables and scribes, which made everything go smoothly. Since Cheng Duo wasn't asking for anything more, Uncle Li made a good deal by stepping forward and scolding Wu Guihua.

However, it was obvious that Wu Guihua's family couldn't come up with the silver. They had just been swindled of all their money, and even if they shamelessly asked for a loan, no one would give it to them.

Cheng Duo smiled, knowing this. "What? The silver I gave to Li Man Cang isn't real? You want to take back the land without giving a single penny? Is there such a good deal in the world?"

He had predicted that Wu Guihua couldn't come up with the money, which was why he made the offer. Even if Wu Guihua managed to come up with the money, it wouldn't matter much to him. It was just a waste of time.

Blushing with embarrassment, Li Changsheng, who was supporting his younger brother from behind, approached and pulled Wu Guihua. "Mother, let's forget it and go back."

They didn't have the money to give back to Cheng Duo.

"What kind of calculation is that?" Wu Guihua refused to give in. "Even if we don't return the land, shouldn't we receive some compensation? Boss Hong from the pork shop suffered losses!"

Li Wang couldn't help but angrily say, "Boss Hong is the middleman who connected you. He deserves to lose money. Cheng Duo doesn't owe you anything!"

Wu Guihua ignored him and lowered her head, with her disheveled bun. Then she wiped away her tears and said, "Our family is already in such a miserable state. What's wrong with him compensating us with a little money?"

An elder, either annoyed by her or feeling pity for their family, actually tried to persuade Cheng Duo, "Why don't you consider it and compensate her a little?"

Cheng Duo didn't budge, saying firmly, "I'll give you the land contract, but give me back my money first. As for compensation, I haven't done anything wrong. Why should I give it?"

He had long seen through Wu Guihua's tricks. It was just a step-by-step attempt to test his bottom line. She started by demanding the return of the land, and when that was refused, she resorted to seeking compensation.

Most people would find it bothersome at this point and would settle the matter by spending a small amount of money.

But Cheng Duo wouldn't give in. If he did, it would mean accepting Wu Guihua's arguments. Such shameless people would continue to take advantage if given an inch.

Cheng Duo's approach left Li Sanye and others speechless. They had agreed to return the land, so what business was it of theirs if he couldn't produce the money?

That was the clever part about Cheng Duo. If he had been too strong-willed and repeatedly refused, even if he was originally in the right, onlookers would consider him too cold and ruthless. But if he compromised a little, it would be different. Although the end result was the same, when Wu Guihua tried to make another move, he could reject others with harsh words.

However, he never expected that Wu Guihua had one last move. "Since you don't want this or that… How about this? Why don't you marry our Feng Ge? It's a good deal for you!"

Feng Ge had already been engaged, and he had even accepted gifts from Master Yan before. However, due to the scandal of a fraudulent marriage, it had become widely known in the surrounding villages.

It wasn't a big deal for the two of them to interact privately and accept gifts from each other. But since Yan's son was a fraud, some busybodies spread rumors privately, saying that the fraudster would never let Feng Ge go, and his innocence must have been lost long ago!

Since their reputation was already tarnished, they decided to go all out. If all else failed, they would force Cheng Duo to marry Feng Ge. After all, as an orphaned hunter, he was considered unlucky in the village. It was better to marry Feng Ge than to be single his whole life, right?

Feng Ge's pale face suddenly turned red. Despite being mentally prepared, he felt like he was standing naked outside, being scrutinized by others with strange eyes.

If it wasn't for knowing that his reputation was ruined, he wouldn't have willingly faced such an embarrassing situation. But he had no choice, and his mother had also said that if Cheng Duo agreed to return the land or compensate them, she wouldn't mention it again…

He desperately tugged at his sleeve, his thin body trembling uncontrollably. He couldn't help but harbor a glimmer of hope, hoping that Cheng Duo would agree, so that he could still salvage some dignity…

Feng Ge's eyelashes trembled as he timidly looked up at Cheng Duo. His awkward and embarrassed demeanor was completely different from his previous arrogance at the village entrance.

Cheng Duo actually admired his ability to understand the situation. Such a person wouldn't thrive in the apocalypse, but at least he wouldn't lose his life inexplicably. In the face of life and death matters, what did pride matter?

This young man was willing to go to such lengths. If Cheng Duo hadn't encountered him, perhaps he could have really turned his life around…

Yong Ge's heart tightened when he saw Cheng Duo looking at Feng Ge. Then, for some reason, his gaze quickly dimmed, his eyes lowered, and his face showed neither sadness nor joy.

Li Wang also became worried, but when he noticed Yong Ge's expression, he began to feel sorry for him. "This Wu Guihua has no shame! Even if Feng Ge's matter doesn't work out, we can't bring up Yong Ge's anymore…"

But Cheng Duo's next words shocked Li Wang and extinguished any thoughts he had, as Cheng Duo said, "It's impossible. I already have a fiancée."

Li Sanye sighed inwardly. He hadn't known that Wu's family would say such things. Seeing Feng Ge's teary eyes and his crumbling appearance, he quickly intervened, "Cheng Duo's parents had already arranged his marriage. What nonsense are you all talking about?"

Feng Ge's hopes were shattered, and he suddenly burst into tears. Covering his face, he ran away, overwhelmed with despair.

"Feng Ge…" Li Changsheng hurriedly went after him, leaving Wu Guihua standing there in a daze, unable to snap out of it.

Li Sanye was afraid that she would make more embarrassing demands, so he discreetly signaled the eldest daughter-in-law who had come to watch the spectacle to pull her away.

Li Wang couldn't believe his ears. He had planned to match Yong Ge with Cheng Duo, but it turned out that Cheng Duo already had an engagement?

He couldn't help but look at Yong Ge and noticed that there was no surprise on his face; he seemed to have known all along.

If he knew, then why did he continue to associate with Cheng Duo? Did he want to be taken advantage of?

A surge of anger welled up in Li Wang's heart, but it wasn't directed at Yong Ge; it was directed at Cheng Duo and himself.

Feeling upset, Li Wang didn't even bother to confront Cheng Duo. He didn't even go to collect his wages and went home with Yong Ge instead.

Even at home, Li Wang couldn't calm down. He paced back and forth in the main room and finally, as he looked at the memorial tablet placed on the ancestral altar, he made up his mind. "Yong Ge, come here."

Yong Ge washed his hands and face and entered the room. Seeing his father assuming a serious posture as if for a heart-to-heart talk, he couldn't help but feel a bit nervous. "Father, what's the matter?"

Yong Ge wasn't stupid. Over the past few days, he had sensed that his father seemed to want to pair him up with Cheng Duo. Although it wasn't explicitly stated, his father didn't object to their conversations and even encouraged him to persuade Cheng Duo, telling him not to waste this opportunity…

Such an attitude was completely unlike how he had dealt with previous employers.

He thought his father wanted to talk to him about Cheng Duo, but he never expected Li Wang's next words, which startled him. Li Wang said, "Yong Ge, you've grown up, and I've decided to tell you about your origin…"

Yong Ge's heart skipped a beat, and he quickly interjected, "Father, what are you saying?"

Li Wang saw him turn pale with fright and inexplicably felt relieved. He patted him on the hand and said, "Don't be afraid, I'm not rejecting you. You probably already guessed what I'm about to say, right? Yong Ge, you're actually not my biological child."

Yong Ge looked at him with a puzzled expression. "Father…"

"Do you remember anything before the age of three?"

Yong Ge subconsciously nodded. "I remember that when I was three, you brought me home from outside."

Li Wang knew from his response that he didn't remember anything, and it made sense. He was so young at the time…

When Li Wang was young, his family was not well-off. It wasn't until he was in his twenties that his parents found him a wife. His wife's appearance could only be described as average, but she was honest and modest, and Li Wang was content with her.

Three years into their marriage, they already had two sons. Initially, Li Wang's parents were happy about the addition to the family, but it soon turned into worry and dissatisfaction. Especially his mother, because his wife had to take care of two children and couldn't work in the fields, she often vented her frustration at home, engaging in arguments and scolding.

Li Wang felt frustrated too. In order to support his wife and children, he soon started seeking work in nearby villages.

However, he had the misfortune of encountering raiding nomads during one of his jobs. Those nomads captured him and sold him as a slave to the Wuhu tribe outside the border.

Jin Ti Gongzi, the youngest son of the Wuhu tribe's chief, was born handsome, clever, and a quick learner. From a young age, he travelled with the tribe, engaging in trade and learning the languages of many tribes.

(T/N : Finally we get a little more background information about Yong Ge's family)

He was particularly curious about the things from Da Xia (Great Xia), and at first, he would secretly communicate with Li Wang in broken Da Xia language when nobody was paying attention. Li Wang was in a difficult situation at the time. He was injured and physically weaker than the members of other ethnic groups, so he was practically given away.

In order to save his own life, he taught Jin Ti Gongzi to speak the Da Xia language and built a good relationship with him. Jin Ti Gongzi indeed protected him, and over time, Li Wang recovered from his injuries. Jin Ti Gongzi's proficiency in the Da Xia language also improved, and communication between them became almost barrier-free.

By that time, Li Wang had been away from his hometown for several months and was extremely worried about his wife and children. Feeling pity for him, Jin Ti Gongzi secretly released him during one of the tribal migrations and gave him some silver to return home.

Li Wang was naturally grateful. Before leaving, he revealed the specific location of his hometown to Jin Ti Gongzi and promised that whenever Jin Ti Gongzi came looking for him, he would do his best to repay his kindness.

At this point, Li Wang covered his face with shame. "Your mother was my benefactor. Before leaving, he entrusted you to me, but I failed to fulfill my promise. I lost the silver he left for you and raised two worthless sons, making you suffer with me… I've let him down!"

"Father, you've already done well, and I don't feel that our lives are difficult…" Yong Ge tried to interject.

Li Wang shook his head and interrupted him. "No, Yong Ge, you don't understand. You should have had a life like Feng Ge, with no worries about clothing and food. When you got married, there would have been a substantial dowry, and you could have chosen whoever you wanted to marry… Your mother had everything planned for you, but I was foolish! I let my own mother steal what rightfully belonged to you, and the dowry that was stolen from Feng Ge should have been yours!"

Since Li Wang had already decided to tell Yong Ge, he didn't hide anything. He explained everything in detail.

Yong Ge didn't know what to say for a moment. His father never mentioned any of this before, and today he suddenly disclosed so much information. His mind was in a whirl.

Li Wang wiped his face. "Now you understand why I severed ties with the Li family, right? You don't need to pity them either. The good days they had in the past were all stolen from you. Now they are simply getting what they deserve!"

Yong Ge nodded in a daze. According to his father's words, he couldn't sympathize with Feng Ge anymore. After all, he wasn't a saint.

It was just a pity that the things left by his mother had all been deceived away by the swindler…

Yong Ge thought for a moment and asked, "What happened to my mother… Why did he come alone to find you in Da Xia?"

"I don't know," Li Wang shook his head. "When I saw him, he was severely injured and only told me that the Wuhu tribe was no more. He warned me not to take you to the border and not to let others discover you…"

There was no tradition of cremation in the Wuhu tribe, but Li Wang fulfilled the young master's request and cremated his body, bringing back the ashes to bury in the family's backyard. He didn't even dare to erect a tombstone.

Yong Ge would go to the mountain every year to pay respects. He definitely remembered the barren grave without anything. Thinking that the remains of Jin Ti Gongzi, who had planned everything for him before his death, and his own mother were buried there without even a tombstone, his nose suddenly felt sour.

"So, where is my father… I mean, the man who fathered me with my mother?" Yong Ge asked.

Li Wang's expression became strange at the mention of this. He didn't want to talk about it, but he was afraid that Yong Ge would misunderstand, so he eventually told him, "The young master said your father is an ungrateful person and told me not to go looking for him."

Without even a name, Yong Ge would need some information if he wanted to find him.

But considering how beautiful Jin Ti Gongzi was, Li Wang suspected that he had been deceived by a man before giving birth to Yong Ge.

"Oh…" Well, forget it. His mother had such a tragic experience, and that man never showed up from beginning to end. It seemed he was undoubtedly an ungrateful person.

With everything explained, Li Wang hesitated for a moment. "What do you think about Cheng Duo?"

"What do you mean, what do I think?" Yong Ge's eyes flickered, and Li Wang could tell he was pretending to be innocent.

But Yong Ge had a thin skin, and Li Wang didn't want to expose him either. He said, "Yong Ge, I've already told you about your origins. Your background is no worse than anyone else's, even better than everyone in this village. Although there is no dowry, I will find a way to earn it back for you. I can even borrow money if needed. But you mustn't give up on yourself…" like becoming someone's kept man.

If Jin Ti Gongzi knew about it from the afterlife, he would probably be furious.

But Li Wang had raised his benefactor's child like this. When Jin Ti Gongzi returned, the first thing he would do was probably to deal with him…

Yong Ge understood the unfinished words from his father. His face immediately turned red. "Father, I don't think that way!"

Li Wang glanced at him. "Since you don't think that way, then keep your distance from him in the future. I will go to the matchmaker in a few days and inquire about potential families suitable for you. With your two useless brothers gone, it shouldn't be difficult to find a suitable match."

The main reason was that Yong Ge had become more attractive. Li Wang had caught several men in the village stealing glances at him more than once. Although boys weren't as valued as girls, if the boy was handsome, those men wouldn't necessarily insist on having a girl.

"Father, I'm not in a hurry."

Li Wang sighed as if he hadn't heard him. "It's all my fault. Otherwise, if you wanted to marry into another family, it would have been possible."

Yong Ge didn't want his father to fall into self-blame again, so he hastily said, "It's okay, Father. Just do as you see fit." Then he used the excuse of preparing food and hurried into the kitchen.

Because the previous night's revelation about his origins was too shocking, Yong Ge had tossed and turned all night. He woke up before dawn on the second day.

He wanted to go to the back mountain to visit his mother.

Taking advantage of the dim morning light, he left the house and turned around, only to find someone standing outside their courtyard. It was none other than Cheng Duo, tall and sturdy.

Yong Ge was startled. "What are you doing here?"

Cheng Duo lifted the things in his hand and mumbled, "I'm going to the mountain later. I was afraid you wouldn't find anyone, so I brought your wages for these past few days."

"No need to rush…" Yong Ge felt a bit embarrassed. His family was very poor. Did Cheng Duo think that if he didn't give them their wages quickly, they would run out of food?

In fact, he and his father had collected a lot of wild vegetables and goods, and combined with the money they had earned earlier, they could sustain themselves for a month or two without any problem.

Cheng Duo didn't know why he had come to check on them either. To avoid appearing abrupt, he used going to the mountain as an excuse, even though he never spent more than a day there each time.

To cover up his uneasiness, Cheng Duo found a topic to discuss. "Why are you up so early? Where are you going?"

"Nowhere, just going to the back mountain."

"The back mountain?"

Yong Ge thought for a moment and decided to be straightforward. "My mother is buried there."

Since his father dared to tell him, he probably thought it was fine. After all, it had been over a decade, and he admitted that it wasn't a big deal.

Mother… that should be Yong Ge's mother?

Cheng Duo made the connection smoothly and said straightforwardly, "Alright, I'll accompany you."

It was still dark outside, and he would be alone. What if he encountered wolves or other wild animals? Besides, it was the wilderness, and there were snakes…

"No need." Yong Ge quickly refused. How could he go to pay respects to his mother with Cheng Duo tagging along?

Cheng Duo didn't think too much about it and assumed that Yong Ge didn't want to trouble him. So, he changed his tone and became more forceful. "It's alright. It won't delay my trip to the mountain. Just quickly bring the things inside, and I'll wait for you on the path behind."

When Yong Ge heard Cheng Duo's tone, which brooked no refusal, he decided not to say anything. Well, if he wanted to come along, let him. After all, his mother might not even be able to see…

Yong Ge took the bag that Cheng Duo handed him and realized that besides the coins, there was also a piece of meat and a chicken inside. He thought for a moment but didn't say anything, just went inside with the bag.

The two of them walked up the mountain, one in front and one behind. The forest was quiet, with only the chirping of crickets and occasional melodious bird songs.

Yong Ge walked in the dark forest, unable to see the path clearly, but thinking of Cheng Duo behind him, he unconsciously quickened his pace…

Cheng Duo, of course, had no problem walking in the dark. He could even see Yong Ge's slender and straight legs, his thin but not skinny waist, and the small round mound that lifted and tightened with each step…

Perhaps his gaze was too piercing. Suddenly, Yong Ge slipped and fell backward uncontrollably, exclaiming, "Ah!"

Without thinking, Cheng Duo reached out and grabbed his waist. The feeling was the same as the previous few times he had touched it—supple, soft, and slipping down as if it were greased… Cheng Duo couldn't help but exert a bit more force.

Yong Ge fell into Cheng Duo's arms, his back against the broad chest that felt like a wall of flesh. The familiar scent lingered in his nose. And on his waist, he still held the large hand of the other person…

Yong Ge's heart suddenly became chaotic. He quickly pushed Cheng Duo away and stood upright. "Alright… I'm steady now. Please let go."

Cheng Duo actually wanted to pinch a few more times, not out of lust, but rather the inherent mischief in men. When they encountered something elastic, they couldn't help but get itchy hands…

Of course, if he were to act now, it would be considered harassment. So Cheng Duo took a step back and decisively let go.

Yong Ge bit his lip and turned around, lowering his head as he continued walking up the mountain. He felt that agreeing to go up the mountain with Cheng Duo was a mistake. His father had warned him to stay away from the man, yet he turned around and got close to him again. What was he thinking?

Li Wang had taken good care of Jin Ti Gongzi's grave. He had planted a pine tree next to it, which had grown tall after more than a decade.

Yong Ge swept away the fallen leaves on the grave and knelt in front of it, respectfully bowing three times. He felt a bit embarrassed and promised himself to buy more incense and paper money for the next visit.

Cheng Duo was somewhat puzzled. It wasn't a festival or a special occasion, so why did Yong Ge suddenly want to visit the grave? Did he have a quarrel with his father?

However, Cheng Duo didn't ask. When someone was paying respects to their loved ones, basic respect should be shown. He took out his machete, walked around to the side, and cut away the dry branches around the grave, making it look brighter.

By this time, the sun had risen, and the morning light, veiled in a thin mist, fell on Yong Ge's face, causing his whole figure to blur. Cheng Duo quietly watched, feeling as if Yong Ge had discovered something that he didn't know…

Because Cheng Duo was there, Yong Ge didn't stay in front of his mother's grave for too long. After bowing, he stood up and said with a melancholic tone, "Let's go back."

Cheng Duo, with sharp eyes, noticed the slight redness in Yong Ge's eyes when he stood up. Although he quickly turned around to conceal it, he couldn't hide the sense of melancholy that emanated from him.

On the way back, Cheng Duo glanced back at Yong Ge several times. He hadn't realized that the things he used to care least about were now something he actively paid attention to…

Cheng Duo was walking when suddenly he stopped. Yong Ge, who was walking downhill, was already walking fast. Not paying attention for a moment, he actually ran into Cheng Duo's back.

"Why did you suddenly stop!" Yong Ge complained, holding his nose.

It hurt so much, tears were almost streaming down his face!

Seeing that Cheng Duo ignored him, Yong Ge leaned out half of his body to look. When he circled around to face him, he noticed that Cheng Duo's body was stiff, veins bulging on his forehead, and cold sweat trickling down from his temples. It was clear that he was in extreme pain.

Yong Ge panicked, "What's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"

As he spoke, he rolled up his sleeves to wipe Cheng Duo's sweat and tried to reach out and support him. However, Cheng Duo's grip on him was frighteningly strong, and Yong Ge couldn't do anything but offer half of his shoulder so that Cheng Duo could lean on it.

Yong Ge moved Cheng Duo to a flat area and helped him sit down. Seeing Cheng Duo gritting his teeth, his face full of pain, Yong Ge became anxious and wanted to go back and find someone.

"Don't go, I'm fine," Cheng Duo finally eased off the tension. When he spoke again, his voice was hoarse and weak, with a hint of vulnerability.

Yong Ge sat down again, worriedly asking, "Are you okay now? How do you feel?"

He patted Cheng Duo's back, trying to make him more comfortable.

Cheng Duo half-closed his eyes and nodded, his complexion indeed looking much better than before.

"What's wrong with you? Why haven't I seen you have a seizure before?" Yong Ge asked. They had only met yesterday, and Cheng Duo was fine at that time. It was unlikely for him to suddenly have an attack after getting injured.

Cheng Duo shook his head, he didn't know either. During his time in the laboratory, he had undergone dozens of injections and surgeries. Those researchers were unlikely to tell him what experiments they were conducting.

He had always thought he was lucky, but was he just waiting for this?

Cheng Duo leaned against Yong Ge's side, feeling the warmth of the person beside him, and the soothing patting on his back, as if comforting a child. Cheng Duo felt peaceful, slowly digesting the peculiar sensation in his body in this atmosphere.

After a while, Yong Ge saw him calm down and asked again, "Shall I help you to see Dr. Wang?"

Cheng Duo still shook his head, "No need, I'm much better now."

Ignoring Yong Ge's objections, he waved his hand and stood up on his own, moving agilely as usual. If Yong Ge hadn't witnessed his attack, he would almost think Cheng Duo had fooled him.

Indeed, besides the feeling of someone tearing at his insides, he didn't feel anything now.

Cheng Duo turned around and looked at Yong Ge, who was full of worry, and couldn't help but smile. "I'm really fine."

"You can still smile?" Yong Ge couldn't believe it.

Cheng Duo self-mockingly curled his lips. What could he do if he didn't smile? In this era where any problem with the body meant certain death, could he cry?

But the researchers had all said that the human body was a miraculous existence. In the apocalypse, as zombies appeared, humans also gained abilities through the zombie virus. With such a minor issue, maybe he could heal himself.

This was his first attack, no need to be pessimistic so soon.

Yong Ge advised once again. Seeing that Cheng Duo insisted on not seeing the doctor, he changed his words, "Then don't go up the mountain today, okay?"

This time, Cheng Duo readily agreed. He didn't want to court death. There were so many wild beasts on the mountain, and there was also a pack of wolves seeking revenge. Even if he was lucky enough not to encounter the wolf pack, there were still cliffs and precipices. If the attack happened at the wrong time, he would truly be beyond saving.

Because of this incident, Cheng Duo didn't have a chance to ask Yong Ge what had happened. Under Yong Ge's repeated instructions, he returned home alone.

Yong Ge returned home and first went to the vegetable garden next to the house to pick a stalk of Chinese lettuce. Then, during the interval of washing the Chinese lettuce, he found the cloth bag hidden behind the water tank.

Li Wang had already gotten up and was sitting under the eaves, tidying up the farming tools. The faint smell of corn porridge wafted from the kitchen. His father should have made breakfast again.

"Dad." Yong Ge called out.

"So early in the morning, where did you go?" Li Wang looked at Yong Ge calmly, pretending not to be worried. Did he feel a bit anxious when he didn't see Yong Ge when he woke up?

He only had Yong Ge by his side, and if he left too, Li Wang truly didn't know what he had to look forward to.

"I went to the back mountain to see my mother and talked to her for a bit."

"Mm." Li Wang understood when he thought about it. He turned his head and gave another reminder, "Don't go so early in the future. Wait until it's light outside."

Yong Ge agreed and took out the cloth bag that Cheng Duo had given him, handing it to his father. "I saw Cheng Duo at the door when I came back. He gave this to me, saying it's our wages for the work we've been doing these days."

"He came so early?" Li Wang frowned.

He had never seen anyone so eager to pay someone's wages, especially so early in the morning. Wasn't he having other intentions toward Yong Ge?

"Yes, Cheng Duo originally said he was going up the mountain, afraid that we wouldn't find him at home. But I saw that he didn't look too good, so I advised him and asked him not to go for now."

That explained it…

It seemed like he had misunderstood. Cheng Duo probably didn't want them to feel embarrassed and delivered it on his own. Li Wang opened the bag and found a piece of meat and a whole chicken inside. He was taken aback, "He's too polite. Why did you accept it, Yong Ge?"

"It's alright, Dad." Yong Ge had thought it through in advance. "Cheng Duo doesn't know how to farm. You can go to help him occasionally, remind him when it's time to water and fertilize the field. It's not like we're taking his things for free."

"But this is too much…" The piece of meat weighed at least two catties, not to mention the whole wild chicken. Although wild chickens were smaller than domestic ones, it was enough to prepare a feast for guests.

Also, Yong Ge had helped sell meat before, and Cheng Duo had given them meat as well. They hadn't finished eating it yet.

At this moment, Li Wang wasn't thinking about Cheng Duo having ulterior motives toward Yong Ge. Instead, he felt a bit regretful. Li San Ye was right; Cheng Duo had a really good character. If only he hadn't already been engaged…

"Dad, Cheng Duo doesn't like it when others refuse him… Besides, since I've accepted it, we'll have another chance to reciprocate in the future." Yong Ge lowered his head and rubbed his fingers.

"That's the only way then." Li Wang sighed. He was afraid that the more they tried to repay, the more entangled things would become.

Look, he had reminded Yong Ge to stay away from Cheng Duo yesterday, but they met early in the morning today. He had no reason to blame Cheng Duo!

Cheng Duo finally had some free time and stayed at home for a day. Feeling bored, he went to the field in the afternoon to take a look. Then, when he went to sleep at night, he contemplated going to the blacksmith's shop the next day: to repair the chipped hatchet and shovel, and also to find Niu the blacksmith to help with making weapons like long spears and bows and arrows.

Cheng Duo had decided not to use the big knife after seeing the bandits and constables using it last time. The big knife was too eye-catching, while the long spear was relatively low-key and, in this place where they no longer needed to kill zombies, using a long spear would be safer for him.

Of course, Cheng Duo didn't go empty-handed. He brought a cured rabbit that he had prepared himself.

When Niu the blacksmith saw the rabbit, he couldn't help but swallow his saliva. He loved drinking alcohol the most, and with a jug of good wine plus this rabbit… just the thought of it was delightful!

Taking advantage of the moment when Niu was repairing the hatchet, Cheng Duo started chatting with him. Unexpectedly, this burly blacksmith also liked to inquire about gossip, and Cheng Duo happened to be involved in the hottest gossip at the moment…

So, after a casual conversation, Niu successfully categorized Cheng Duo as one of his own, readily agreeing to make weapons for him.

In fact, Niu's thinking wasn't difficult to understand. Cheng Duo seemed to be engaging in idle talk with him, but in a way, he was using this method to express that he had completely assimilated into Yang Village and was no longer a mysterious outsider.

Niu had secretly been making things for people, and Cheng Duo was offering him a rabbit with a generous price. Why wouldn't he make them?

Cheng Duo explained his requirements to Niu and was about to pay him when Shanzi ran over to find him.

"Did you say there's a young gentleman named Wei Ling looking for me in the village?"

Shan Wazi nodded, "Mm, Yong Ge asked me to come and get you."

He thought Cheng Duo was at home, but later someone told him that Cheng Duo had headed toward Niu's Village, so he came over to find him.

"Yong Ge? Could it be that Li Da and Li Er have news? So soon, it hasn't even been a month, right?"

After Cheng Duo finished paying, he tucked the hatchet behind his waist, carried the shovel in one hand, and went back with Shanzi.

When they arrived at his house, they saw Yong Ge talking to Wei Ling.

Of course, it was mainly Wei Ling who was speaking enthusiastically, his eyes fixed on Yong Ge. Yong Ge seemed a bit embarrassed but not angry.

Wei Ling was tall and heroic, while Yong Ge was half a head shorter, slim and handsome. The two of them unexpectedly matched each other.

"What are you doing here?" Cheng Duo interrupted them, his tone not very friendly. "Where's Meng Ji?"

Upon hearing Cheng Duo's tone, Yong Ge glared at him sideways. How could he not be a bit more polite when someone came from so far away to deliver news?

His eyes were very beautiful. Even though he was glaring at someone, the upward curve at the corner of his eyes seemed flirtatious. Cheng Duo's breath hitched, and the thought of Yong Ge looking at Wei Ling with those eyes made him even more annoyed.

What are you glaring at? So what if he had this tone? He asked for Meng Ji's help, what does it have to do with General Wei?

Wei Ling also felt a bit awkward. "Meng Ji went out on official business, and before leaving, he entrusted the matters of Li Da and Li Er to me. I received some information recently and was afraid that you would be worried, so I took the opportunity of my vacation to come and inform you."

Wei Ling had already told Yong Ge about this, so he repeated it to Cheng Duo. Apparently, he had heard that a few months ago, the city wall of Yufang Mountain collapsed, and the General requested people from several surrounding counties to come and repair it.

Repairing the city wall was a difficult task, and accidents could easily lead to deaths. Therefore, it was usually exiled criminals or death row inmates who were sent to do the job. However, this time the General needed more people, and there might not be enough death row inmates. So the county officials sent people who had committed minor crimes, claiming that it was to train their character.

"I heard that they might have also caught some petty thieves and vagrants who were loitering outside in the middle of the night…"

As soon as Cheng Duo heard this, he knew that it was highly likely. He grabbed Wei Ling's shoulder and pulled him aside, saying fiercely, "Didn't Meng Ji tell you that I asked him to find the people later?"

"Why? They are Yong Ge's older brothers. Are you intentionally delaying it, not afraid that Yong Ge will worry?" Wei Ling argued, looking at Cheng Duo with a scrutinizing gaze.

Ha! Yong Ge told him about that? When did they become so close? Why didn't he know about it!

Cheng Duo had an inexplicable aversion towards Wei Ling, and when he saw him looking at him with a suspicious gaze, his anger surged, and his eyes involuntarily narrowed dangerously.

The two of them stood in silence for a while. Just as the hair on Wei Ling's back stood on end, feeling that Cheng Duo was about to lose control and make a move, he suddenly raised his hand and called Shanzi over.

"Shanzi, come here."

Shanzi looked at this person, then at that person, and came over with a bewildered expression, "Cheng Brother?"

Cheng Duo placed his hand on Shanzi's shoulder. "Tell him how Li Da and Li Er, Yong Ge's two older brothers, are as people. You don't need to look at me, just tell the truth."

"Oh…" Shanzi didn't know how to speak profound truths, so he recounted the tyrannical deeds of Li Da and Li Er, the village bullies. Of course, he didn't forget to express his grievances as well.

"Li Da and Li Er are even worse than bandits! There was one year when my eldest brother was sick, and I caught a few fish in the creek, intending to bring them back to make fish soup for him. But they snatched them away from me on the road. They've also stolen my firewood and wild birds and vegetables. If they couldn't steal anything, they would resort to violence…"

Shanzi had a lot to say about this. He listed a long list of incidents, repeating similar examples, clearly showing how much he resented them.

Cheng Duo could only interrupt him helplessly, "Alright, you've already said these before. Now, tell me how they treated Yong Ge."

Just as he was saying that, Yong Ge had already come over. In fact, when Shanzi was airing his grievances, Yong Ge had already heard a bit of it. He was feeling embarrassed about whether to interrupt or not when he heard Cheng Duo mention him, so he hurriedly stepped forward to block his path. "Alright, why are you making Shanzi say these things!"

He knew that Cheng Duo might be trying to defend him, but Wei Ling specifically came for his two older brothers. What if he found out about their behavior and refused to help?

In all honesty, Yong Ge also hoped that his two older brothers would learn a lesson and change their idle habits, so that they could come back and live a good life.

But teaching them a lesson was one thing; he didn't want them to lose their lives! He had heard from others how dangerous it was to repair the city wall, even the death row inmates couldn't handle it, let alone his two older brothers who had hardly done any heavy work or worked in the fields.

If something happened to them, his father would be devastated!

Wei Ling was an upright person. Seeing Yong Ge stepping forward to stop them, he couldn't bear to see him in distress and didn't continue letting Shanzi speak.

But he already understood Cheng Duo's meaning. Li Da and Li Er were not good people, and they were not good to Yong Ge either.

Although these were only Shanzi's one-sided words, he planned to stay in the village for a few more days, which would be enough time for him to inquire and find out the truth.

Cheng Duo knew that Wei Ling was a clever person. Seeing through him so easily, although his anger had diminished slightly, he still didn't want to deal with him much.

Therefore, when faced with Wei Ling's friendly gaze, he turned his face away, pretending not to see.

Don't think he didn't know. Wei Ling hadn't changed his expression even after hearing that Li Da and Li Er were village bullies. It was only when he heard that they might have mistreated Yong Ge that his expression turned serious.

Since their first meeting, this person had inexplicably had a favorable impression of Yong Ge. Now, was it possible that he already considered Yong Ge as his possession?

Cheng Duo glanced at Wei Ling, trying to find even the slightest flaw in him. But no matter how he looked, he couldn't find anything bad to say about Wei Ling while keeping a clear conscience.

This guy was a junior general. Usually, such a title came from a martial family, and above him, there would be a father or an uncle who held an even higher rank as a general.

He also has a decent appearance and is even more humble in character, showing respect and courtesy to others. Despite offending him, he didn't get angry. Apart from fearing his strength, his good character is also a significant factor.

Cheng Duo was busy finding faults and remained silent for a while. Wei Ling thought about the previous misunderstanding and felt a bit unsure, so he clenched his fist and lightly coughed.

Yong Ge looked around, not understanding why the atmosphere between them was so strange. But since Cheng Duo remained silent, he had to step forward and greet, "Young Master Wei, you must be hungry after such a long journey. If you don't mind…"

Yong Ge used to address General Wei, but Wei Ling said it wasn't convenient, so he changed to calling him Young Master Wei.

"I don't mind" Wei Ling replied with a smiling face. Without waiting for Yong Ge to finish, he eagerly accepted the invitation.

Cheng Duo sneered at him and said, "Do you know the situation in Yong Ge's family? Treating you to a meal would keep them busy for a long time, father and son."

Wei Ling wanted to offer money, but then he remembered that Yong Ge's two older brothers were not at home, and Cheng Duo mentioned that it was only Yong Ge and his father in the family. As a grown man, would it be appropriate for him to go in and let others gossip about Yong Ge?

Wei Ling didn't want his good intentions to cause trouble. Yong Ge was a decent person, and he came to deliver a message from afar. It was enough for them to treat him to a few meals.

"Let's go to my place then. We've already reached the door, and if we don't go in, others might think I don't know manners," Cheng Duo said indifferently, glancing at Wei Ling. Although his attitude wasn't welcoming, his eyes said otherwise.

Wei Ling hesitated for a moment and, knowing that Cheng Duo was single, nodded, "Alright."

Then he turned and smiled, comforting Yong Ge, "I find it more convenient to stay at Brother Cheng's place. I appreciate Yong Ge's kindness."

It was convenient for him to stay at Cheng Duo's home and figure out the relationship between him and Yong Ge. Although Cheng Duo's attitude wasn't great, Wei Ling had dealt with much more difficult people in the military. If he couldn't handle a cold reception, he might as well give up early.

Wei Ling also invited Shanzi, "Why don't you come along, little brother?"

Shanzi secretly glanced at Cheng Duo and received a positive look, so he nodded in agreement.

Wei Ling thought he would temporarily separate from Yong Ge, but unexpectedly, Yong Ge entered Cheng Duo's home with them.

Cheng Duo noticed this and glared at Wei Ling, asking, "Why did you follow?"

'If I don't come, who will cook?' Yong Ge helplessly glanced at him. Some people really didn't appreciate his cooking skills!

Shanzi was also only good at fooling his younger siblings. Asking him to cook a delicious meal was really difficult.

Wei Ling was such a good person; Yong Ge couldn't let him help and suffer from Cheng Duo's terrible cooking skills.

In the past, when Yong Ge mentioned cooking, Cheng Duo would wholeheartedly support him. But today, he unusually said, "I can do it myself. You don't need to stay; you should go back."

"You don't need me?" Yong Ge looked at him inexplicably. "Cheng Duo, what's gotten into you today?"

To have him suddenly cook, did the sun rise from the west?

"I can't do anything…" Cheng Duo struggled to find the right words and tried to keep a straight face. "Don't you need to go back and cook for your father? What if Uncle Li comes out looking for you?"

"It's okay, my father is used to it. If he sees that I haven't returned, he'll cook for himself first," Yong Ge replied.

They didn't always eat together as father and son. Sometimes, unexpected chores would come up, or they would get busy and forget about meals.

Yong Ge insisted on staying, and Cheng Duo had no choice but to sit under the eaves and sulk.

Wei Ling realized he couldn't be of help and sat next to Cheng Duo. He tentatively asked,"Your relationship with Yong Ge seems quite good, doesn't it?"

The interaction between Yong Ge and Cheng Duo at the military camp gate was quite intriguing. Today, it was even more noticeable as these two seemed to have no regard for others when they spoke. Cheng Duo had a stern face, but Yong Ge wasn't afraid. In the end, it was Cheng Duo who couldn't do anything about Yong Ge.

Cheng Duo really wanted to retort with "What's it to you?" but he felt that it wouldn't be reasonable. In fact, when he first saw Wei Ling upon his return, he felt an unexplained aversion towards him. After all, he had survived in the apocalypse for ten years. Why was he so easily irritated today?

Thinking about it, Cheng Duo suddenly calmed down and suppressed that inexplicable irritability in his heart. He patiently spoke to Wei Ling, "Yong Ge saved me and helped me a lot. I was able to settle down in the village thanks to him."

"Oh, I see…" Wei Ling breathed a sigh of relief. He was afraid that Cheng Duo would continue to have a dark expression and not say a word.

So the two of them slowly started chatting, from Yang Village to Xiling Camp, and the current situation in Daxia.

The more they talked, the more Wei Ling felt that Cheng Duo was not an ordinary villager. His insights went far beyond that, and he had some understanding of the current situation. But whenever Wei Ling brought the conversation back to Yong Ge, Cheng Duo would find an excuse to change the subject, and it worked every time.

Coincidentally, Wei Ling gradually realized—when Cheng Duo looked displeased with him outside the courtyard, was it because he and Yong Ge were getting too close?

However, Cheng Duo had a stable temperament. He quickly calmed his emotions, and at this moment, Wei Ling couldn't feel any hostility from Cheng Duo. At most, when Yong Ge was mentioned, Cheng Duo would unconsciously change the topic.

While the two were engaged in conversation, Yong Ge had already pulled Shanzi aside. He secretly took out several copper coins from his pocket and asked him to go to the neighboring village to buy a block of tofu. If there were any fish, he could buy a few more.

Shanzi was also eager to contribute, so he gladly took the money and happily went on his way.

After Yong Ge closed the door, he turned and entered the kitchen. Just as he was about to steam the cornmeal buns, he heard an urgent knocking at the door and someone loudly calling for Cheng Duo from outside the courtyard.

"Cheng Duo! Cheng Duo…"

Cheng Duo went to open the door and found it was Li San's eldest son, Li Dazhuang. He didn't know where he came from, but he was sweating profusely and looked extremely anxious.

As soon as Cheng Duo opened the door, Li Dazhuang hurriedly said, "Cheng Duo, a wild boar has come down from the mountain. My father wants you to come and help!"

"What's going on?" Cheng Duo asked as he turned around to find his machete.

"I don't know. That wild boar is going crazy, rampaging in the fields on the south slope. We can't stop it, and it has trampled many crops!" Li Dazhuang replied.

Cheng Duo was shocked because the four mu of land he bought from Li Mancang was just below the south slope!

With no further hesitation, Cheng Duo grabbed his machete and headed out. "Let's go!"

"I'll come along too. Maybe I can be of help," Wei Ling said, picking up the bow and arrow he had been carrying on his back.

Yong Ge came out and saw that they had all left, so he quickly returned to the kitchen to put out the firewood. Before leaving the courtyard, he remembered the wolf footprints from last time and casually inserted the door latch.

From a distance, Cheng Duo could already hear the piercing cries of the wild boar. The dark and massive body swiftly moved through the fields, carrying a gust of dangerous stench. The men in the village stood ready with hoes and rakes, forming a defensive line, but none of them dared to approach.

However, just because they didn't approach didn't mean the wild boar wouldn't attack on its own.

Witnessing yet another person being knocked down by the wild boar, and even stomped on, the others rushed forward to help. "Zhu Zi!"

"Are you okay?"

The young man called Zhu Zi grimaced as he held his lower back, blood seeping from the outer side of his arm. It seemed like a serious injury.

The group quickly carried him out of the field, away from the danger zone.

Despite the presence of so many people, the wild boar seemed either confused or attracted by something nearby, constantly darting around the field on the slope, impossible to drive away.

Its sharp cries sent chills down the spines of the onlookers, especially since it had injured several people in succession. But the villagers couldn't simply ignore it; otherwise, if it continued rampaging, all the crops in this area would be devastated.

"Cheng Duo." Li San finally felt relieved when he saw Cheng Duo arrive.

However, Cheng Duo frowned. If there was any ability that could counter someone like him, a power-enhanced individual, it undoubtedly would be speed. This wild boar appeared clumsy but was actually astonishingly fast!

The field was now filled with cornstalks, sorghum, wheat, and other crops standing half as tall as a person. The piercing cries of the pig echoed through the mountain hollow, and Cheng Duo's ability to locate the sound was greatly hindered. Often, when he looked over, all he could see was a fleeting shadow.

Wei Ling also tried to aim his bow several times but missed the target, giving up halfway.

"How is it?" Cheng Duo asked.

Wei Ling shook his head helplessly. "No good."

"I'll draw its attention," Cheng Duo said, brushing aside a row of corn leaves and diving in.

Unable to stop Cheng Duo, Wei Ling could only shout from behind, "Be careful!"

As Cheng Duo entered the field, he caught a faint scent of blood. He initially thought it was from the injured villagers, but as he followed the scent, he discovered a torn-up young wild boar.

The young boar appeared to be only a month or two old, and Cheng Duo found half of its scalp. The wound didn't seem to be caused by a tool; it looked more like it was torn off directly with teeth.

Cheng Duo immediately thought of wolves. Li Wang had mentioned that wolves were cunning. If they couldn't overpower their prey, they would not only ambush but also find a way to drive the prey into a trap.

He had been working in this field a few days ago, and the wolves had turned their attention to the wild boars. Cheng Duo was the first to not believe that this scene had nothing to do with them.

As he crouched down to examine the young boar's scalp, the crops behind him suddenly rustled, and a strong odor assaulted him from behind.

Cheng Duo rolled to the ground and, with a swift motion, struck with his knife. The scent of blood mixed with the boar's sharp cry.

At the same time, from a distance, Wei Ling raised his hand and released an arrow, hitting the wild boar directly in the back of the neck.

However, the boar's hide was too thick. The arrow barely pierced through the skin and didn't kill it, only further enraging the sow.

Cheng Duo got up from the ground, holding the blood-stained machete, and relied on his ability to locate sounds, preparing for the boar's next assault… But in the next moment, he suddenly reached out and clutched his lower abdomen in excruciating pain, rendering him immobile.

By this time, the crops around him had been flattened during the fierce struggle, and the villagers could only see Cheng Duo suddenly change his expression, but they had no idea what was happening.

Only Yong Ge, who had just arrived, could guess that Cheng Duo's condition had probably flared up again. He anxiously shouted, "Cheng Duo!"

Without hesitation, he jumped off the embankment and ran frantically towards Cheng Duo's direction.

He arrived just in time, just before the wild boar lunged forward, and tackled Cheng Duo aside.

Wei Ling also acted in time, shooting an arrow into the wild boar's eyes, causing it to change direction midway and not harm the two of them.

Just as Yong Ge was about to breathe a sigh of relief, he saw Cheng Duo, whom he had tackled, suddenly spit out a mouthful of blood.

Yong Ge exclaimed, "Cheng Duo!"

He quickly turned Cheng Duo over, thinking that when he tackled him, Cheng Duo accidentally collided with his own machete, or perhaps the boar had actually struck him unnoticed?

"Where are you injured?" Yong Ge frantically searched Cheng Duo's body, attempting to stop the bleeding.

Cheng Duo didn't have the time to explain. He embraced Yong Ge, kicked his legs downward, and swung his right hand with the machete, slicing open the wild boar's belly just as it lunged at them!

Hot pig's blood splattered all around, some even landing on Yong Ge's face. His pupils widened, and for a moment, he couldn't react.

That scene just now was too thrilling and too exhilarating. His heart pounded heavily, almost bursting out of his chest.

Subconsciously, he glanced at Cheng Duo beneath him. Unexpectedly, Cheng Duo was also looking at him, and in Cheng Duo's eyes, there was a rare trace of a smile. Besides the joy of escaping death, it seemed to hold an emotion that Yong Ge couldn't understand… or rather, tenderness?

However, that smile disappeared in an instant. Before Yong Ge could truly comprehend it, the commotion from the approaching crowd startled him, and he quickly got off Cheng Duo.

He wondered if anyone saw that scene just now.

Yong Ge felt a bit confused… Of course, he got up and helped the weakened Cheng Duo to his feet.

Wei Ling was the first to arrive and also witnessed Yong Ge straddling Cheng Duo. He instinctively stepped forward to shield them. Moreover, due to their lower position and the remaining standing crops obstructing the view, nobody else knew what had happened. They only saw Yong Ge pounce on Cheng Duo, and then the wild boar, howling like a slaughtered pig, charging out covered in blood and collapsing to the ground.

Moreover, compared to Cheng Duo and Yong Ge, who had already stood up and were unharmed, the villagers were more inclined to gather around the wild boar, ten meters away…

When they saw that the wild boar's belly had been almost completely cut open, blood splattered all over the ground, they felt a mix of excitement, fear, and awe. But at the same time, there was a hint of regret.

This was fresh pig's blood. If they had a bucket, they could have several good meals!

Only Wei Ling noticed something unusual about Cheng Duo. "What happened just now?"

The relaxed expression on Cheng Duo's face visibly faded, and he wiped away the bloodstains at the corner of his mouth, vaguely saying, "Nothing, just a minor problem."

Yong Ge looked at Cheng Duo with concern, wanting to say something but hesitating due to the presence of others. He could only hold back for the time being.

"It takes a skilled hunter to do this! Impressive! No wild boar can stand a chance!"

"That strike was too fierce. The pig's intestines spilled out. No wonder it couldn't run far…"

"This pig must weigh around one to two hundred catties… Third Uncle, can you ask the hunter to share some meat with us?"

When these words were uttered, everyone in the vicinity stared expectantly at Li Sanye, hoping he would negotiate with Cheng Duo.

They hadn't exerted much effort during the hunt but had prevented the wild boar from damaging their crops, and some people had even gotten injured!

Li Sanye thought about the injured villagers, so he mustered the courage to approach Cheng Duo and discuss it with him. Cheng Duo wasn't someone who always took everything for himself, so he agreed to let Li Sanye take half of the pork, including the offal, without any hesitation.

As soon as he finished speaking, cheers erupted from the crowd. Li Da Zhuang, Sha Er Shu, and others came forward to express their gratitude to Cheng Duo. Because they had participated in capturing the wild boar together, and Cheng Duo generously gave away half of the pork, everyone's gaze towards him became much warmer.

Li Sanye was relatively fair. Besides the injured individuals, those who had helped with farming tools and the ones whose crops had been ruined received a share of the meat.

Although the amount each family received wasn't much, it was free meat that would make everyone happy for a long time.

Yong Ge worried about Cheng Duo's health, so he didn't participate in dividing the meat. He, along with Wei Ling, escorted Cheng Duo back home.

However, Li Sanye didn't forget about them. When someone delivered the pig's head and half of the pork to Cheng Duo, each of them received about four to five catties.

Although four to five catties seemed a bit less, excluding the offal and pig intestines, they already had a generous share compared to the other villagers.

Wei Ling didn't expect to receive a portion, and he was about to decline, but Cheng Duo said, "You contributed, so it's only fair to get a share."

Cheng Duo had made up his mind. He allowed Wei Ling to take the meat back home. These days, Wei Ling had been staying and eating at his place, so the portion he took was an additional share for Wei Ling.

And then there was Yong Ge…

Cheng Duo thought of this and glanced at Yong Ge but quickly withdrew his gaze. He had felt Yong Ge risking his life to save him, and he couldn't deny that. Because someone cared for him like that for the first time, Cheng Duo felt both delighted and apprehensive.

But as soon as he thought about his own condition, the delight faded away. He had no time for anything now, and any words would be empty…

Yong Ge also hesitated to look at Cheng Duo. In fact, since they returned, he hadn't made direct eye contact with Cheng Duo even once.

He didn't know what Cheng Duo was thinking, but his mind was filled with the gentle smile Cheng Duo had given him. Yong Ge couldn't stop himself from thinking about what that smile meant.

He even felt a bit resentful towards Cheng Duo. What was he smiling about for no reason? Didn't he know it could easily be misunderstood?

Only the Shanzi, who had bought tofu and crucian carp and returned, had a bewildered expression. However, when he saw the wild boar meat piled up in the courtyard like a small mountain, his eyes immediately turned greedy—so much meat!

Cheng Duo was not stingy with the meat, and for lunch, everyone enjoyed Yong Ge's homemade sour cabbage stewed with pork belly, stir-fried pork slices with bamboo shoots, and crucian carp tofu soup. All of it was served in large bowls… Even the Shanzi, let alone Wei Ling, ate with oil dripping from their mouths.

Although Wei Ling was referred to as a "junior general," his living conditions were the same as those of ordinary soldiers. Occasionally, when he took leave and came out for a celebration, he would only spend a small portion of his meager salary. At most, he would indulge in some meat dishes to satisfy his cravings. How could he have ever eaten meat so openly like he did now?

Of course, Cheng Duo didn't forget to ask Yong Ge to save a portion for his father, which would also serve as their dinner.

After finishing the meal, the Shanzi helped Yong Ge clean up the table and wash the dishes. With his belly full, he planned to make a quick exit. But Wei Ling had something to ask him and couldn't let him escape, so he made up an excuse and chased after him.

With everyone gone, Yong Ge hesitated for a moment, then approached Cheng Duo, who was using a hunting knife to divide and arrange the meat in a large wooden basin. "If you don't want others to know, shall I accompany you to Twenty Li Slope?"

Cheng Duo didn't raise his head. "I'm fine."

"You say you're fine, but you were spitting blood just now!"

"It's just a minor issue. I'm already fine," Cheng Duo said nonchalantly.

"You say it's fine, but you were spitting blood!" Yong Ge exclaimed.

"It's just a minor health problem. The medicine you brewed in the cave was extremely bitter, and I almost bit off my tongue," Cheng Duo said with a slight smile.

"Then… then should I buy you more candy? It'll make the medicine taste less bitter," Yong Ge easily believed and immediately offered.

Cheng Duo chuckled suddenly. "Did you really think you could fool me like a child?"

Yong Ge froze for a moment and then became frustrated, stomping his foot. "It's so late, and you're still in the mood for joking!"

Cheng Duo tilted his head, admiring Yong Ge's worried expression for a while. Just as the person he was staring at was about to blush, Cheng Duo suddenly clenched his fist and coughed lightly, putting on a serious expression. "It's my own health, and I know what's going on."

"What's going on?" Yong Ge asked, but Cheng Duo refused to say anything, only stating, "I really am fine, you don't need to worry."

How could Yong Ge not worry!

After hesitating for a moment, he took out a tiger bone whistle that he had hidden in his clothes. "Then, take this. Give it back to me when you're truly fine."

Cheng Duo glanced at it. "What is it?"

"A tiger bone whistle. When you blow it, it can make the sound of a tiger roar," Yong Ge explained, then added, "It's more effective in the forest."