Chapter 197

Chapter 197 - The Bones Can be Called Crisp

The Su family's formidable power was something Zhang Xiaolong simply couldn't match. Despite the substantial financial backing from Lee Donghua and others, he still couldn't wield it as effectively as his own true strength.

When he ultimately lost Strong Dragon, Zhang Xiaolong wasn't taken aback, but he couldn't shake off a sense of gloom.

He chose not to linger in the city, instead returning alone to Clear River Village.

This was his true home. Regardless of the challenges he faced elsewhere, it was here that he could recharge and feel invigorated.

Leaving his belongings at home, he ventured into the countryside. The sight of the verdant spring wheat sprouting across the fields lifted his spirits.

Here and there, solitary graves dotted the landscape, prompting a moment of reflection for Zhang Xiaolong.

Ever since he had received the Shennong Inheritance, life had been smooth sailing. In just a few months, he had transformed from a poor kid who knew nothing of business into a wealthy man worth nearly ten million. What more could he ask for?

Yet, he realized he had nearly lost sight of his original purpose.

Owning Strong Dragon certainly facilitated rapid development and the ability to help others. But even without it, he could continue his earlier endeavors, embodying Shennong's spirit with steadfast determination.

Ironically, the allure of billions had nearly turned him into a true businessman, fixated solely on money, with little regard for anything else.

Having come to this realization, Zhang Xiaolong let out a deep breath, releasing much of his prior discontent, and headed back to his house. Findd new stories at novelhall.com

Zhang Daniu and his wife were unaware of their son's troubles. They sensed his recent return was less than joyful and refrained from probing too deeply.

They understood their son had many responsibilities and that asking questions might not be helpful, only adding to his burdens.

Noticing his improved mood, Zhang Daniu, encouraged by his wife, ventured, “Xiaolong, now that you're back, if you're not too busy, could you lend a hand at Wang Fugui's place?”

“Help out? With what?” Zhang Xiaolong asked, caught off guard.

?Wang Fugui's house was festooned with lanterns and streamers, and a loudspeaker hung from the roof. A group of young people, directed by the event manager, bustled about, moving and arranging items in the courtyard in preparation for the wedding ceremony.

Wang Jiutou, Wang Fugui's father, approached Wang Baofeng, who was overseeing the arrangements, and asked, “Should we make a special effort to inform Daniu's family about the celebration?”

?Normally, the sound of a loudspeaker would be enough to alert the entire village—no specific notification needed. But Zhang Xiaolong's current standing in the village had elevated his father, Zhang Daniu, by association. No one wanted to risk slighting them.

Still, Wang Jiutou thought it might be a good idea to extend a personal invitation.

“I think it's better not to,” Wang Baofeng considered before shaking his head. “Xiaolong is a man of important affairs. If he's too busy to attend, it would look worse if we had gone out of our way to invite him.”

“You're absolutely right. I almost made a big blunder,” Wang Jiutou agreed, nodding vigorously.

“What are you two talking about, Ninth Uncle? I'm right here, aren't I? There's no need for anyone to notify me,” chimed in a voice from nearby.

Wang Baofeng and Wang Jiutou turned to see Zhang Xiaolong, covered in dust, helping the young people move things. It was clear he had been there for quite some time, fully involved in the preparations.

“How did this happen?” Wang Baofeng chided himself for his poor eyesight, having failed to recognize Zhang Xiaolong and mistakenly directing him around. “Xiaolong, why are you getting involved in this kind of work? You've gotten your clothes all dirty.”

“You hear what Uncle is saying? I came to lend a hand. I can't just stand by and watch without pitching in,” Zhang Xiaolong replied with a smile. “Besides, I'm still a farmer from Clear River Village. Don't always treat me like I'm someone different.”

“Fair enough, they say the real achievers are the ones without any pretense. You've got my respect,” Wang Baofeng said admiringly. Then, turning to Wang Jiutou with a hint of disdain, he added, “I've been saying, we know what kind of person Daniu is. There's no need for formalities...”

Zhang Xiaolong just smiled and didn't respond, getting back to his tasks.

Once all the work was done, the young folks gathered to shoot the breeze.

“What wedding night are you talking about? Fugui has already been with the bride...”

“How do you know that? Did you see something?”

“You don't have to see it to know. That woman was moaning all night long...”