Chapter 172: Each With Their Strengths

Xingyi and Xingjiu hadn’t held anything back when dealing with Jian Mo, and Jian Mo had no intention of keeping secrets from them either.

After hearing Xingyi’s request, Jian Mo said, “I’m better at treating external injuries. I’m not very good with all kinds of illnesses.”

Xingyi: “You’re too modest.”

Jian Mo: “I mean it. My edge is that I handle certain surgical instruments well, and I also have a pretty good stethoscope. Want to take a look?”

Xingyi: “Of course!”

Jian Mo went inside, took the stethoscope from his pack, and brought it out for Xingyi and Xingjiu to see. “In a way, listening to the sounds inside a patient’s body and using a stethoscope are similar methods. But with a tool, you can hear more clearly.”

Xingyi accepted the compact metal instrument. “How do you use it?”

Jian Mo: “Press the thick end against the patient, and bring the thin end to your ear.”

Following Jian Mo’s instructions, Xingyi tried it and discovered the sounds really were clearer. “What’s the principle behind it?”

Jian Mo: “Well… sound transmits better through solids?”

He’d seen plenty of stethoscopes and roughly knew how to make them, but he really wasn’t clear on the precise mechanism.

Xingyi was the type to habitually chase things to the root; he asked, and seeing Jian Mo wasn’t sure, he let it go.

Instead, taking advantage of the clearer sounds, he beckoned Jian Mo over and explained in detail what the different internal sounds represented and why they differed.

Under his guidance, Jian Mo quickly understood.

Excited, Jian Mo pulled out his notebook and carefully wrote down everything he’d learned that night in neat block characters.

Watching Jian Mo’s tidy square script, Xingyi was quite intrigued.

After Fenhui sweated, Xingyi had someone bring meat broth; they fed him a serving with vegetables, then had him shift back into human form and helped him into a room to rest.

Both sides had come into contact with medical knowledge unfamiliar to them; none of the three felt like sleeping.

Knees almost touching, they talked late into the night.

By the latter half of the night, when they truly couldn’t stay up any longer, Xingyi said, still reluctant to stop, “Tomorrow I’ll ask around and see if anyone is willing to undergo a surgery, so we can learn procedures from you.”

Jian Mo had no objections. “All right. Once a patient comes, I’ll examine them—if surgery is indicated, we’ll do it. If not, we’ll look for another case.”

Xingyi: “Sounds good. Get some rest—we’ll head back first.”

Xingjiu supported Xingyi to leave.

Xingyi was quite advanced in years and had been up late; it was truly taxing. Seeing this, Wu Jiong planned to shift into the great wolf and escort them home.

Xingyi hadn’t expected this seemingly aloof man to be so considerate. He demurred once, couldn’t refuse, and happily accepted the offer.

Having learned something new, Jian Mo’s spirits remained high despite his fatigue.

The next morning he didn’t sleep in at all; he woke with the sunrise and went to check on Fenhui.

Fenhui still hadn’t awakened, sleeping deep and sound.

Jian Mo didn’t disturb him; he simply observed his complexion and skin tone at the side.

Even after just a single day, Fenhui’s facial skin and exposed hands were clearly less sallow, shifting back toward a more normal color.

After a careful once-over, Jian Mo slipped out and told Wu Jiong, “A miracle worker.”

Wu Jiong: “Witch-Doctor Xingyi really is impressive.”

Jian Mo: “Right? He’s totally different from Lian Ke. When I met Lian Ke before, I thought witch-doctors here would put ‘witch’ before ‘doctor.’ Turns out that’s not the whole story. I want to stay a few more days and learn properly.”

Wu Jiong: “All right. We can stay into winter if needed. If it’s too long, I’ll run back to the tribe and let everyone know.”

Jian Mo thought for a moment. “No rush. Witch-Doctor Xingyi might not necessarily agree to keep us.”

Wu Jiong: “I think if you want to stay, they won’t object. They like you—and the medical techniques you brought.”

Jian Mo smiled. “Then it’ll come down to whether my surgeries can win them over.”

Xingyi’s passion for medicine was as strong as ever. By noon, six patients they’d found had arrived.

Among them, two had severe inflammatory infections of limbs, two had growths (tumors), one had a broken hand, and one had a hard mass inside the body—nothing showing on the surface; you could only feel it through the skin.

Xingyi: “Witch-Doctor Jian Mo, these patients fit what you asked for. We don’t have appropriate methods here—can your side treat them?”

After examining each case carefully, Jian Mo said, “The two with tumors and the one with the internal hard mass should be relatively straightforward. The other three will require more thought.”

Xingyi’s eyes lit up. “Which one shall we treat first?”

Jian Mo considered it. “Let’s start with the one whose neck has a tumor.”

He’d handled a similar case before and had experience; the chances of success were high. He wanted to impress Xingyi and the others, and it was best to begin with a more manageable operation.

Xingyi said quickly, “Yes, yes. Man Zhi’s growth is a sarcoma. We’ve tried medicinals to shrink it with no success, and it’s only gotten bigger. We’ve been worried.”

The sarcoma on the beastman Man Zhi’s neck was nearly as big as his head. Its heavy weight had slightly deformed his neck and shoulder bones.

He was a handsome man by nature, but this growth made him look odd and affected his life enormously, even if it wasn’t the most dangerous condition.

Jian Mo had Man Zhi sit on a low stool, examined carefully, and explained as he went: “There are many blood vessels in the neck. The difficulty here is avoiding them; nick a vessel and you can cause massive bleeding.”

Xingyi: “Exactly—and with an incision that large, if we handled it, it’d be hard to heal well.”

Jian Mo: “Right—postoperative care is crucial.”

Xingyi: “We do have a few herbal washes that help wounds close nicely.”

Jian Mo: “Perfect. That’s exactly what I’m short on for post-op care.”

Before, his surgeries were done after assessing either human or beast form. Now that he was in Star-Store, where they had a knack for examinations, he followed their lead and checked Man Zhi’s beast form as well.

Guiding Jian Mo’s listening, Xingyi said, “Hear that? He’s in good shape overall; no issues with his organs. It’s just this big tumor blocking the flow of qi and blood.”

Listening closely, Jian Mo really could hear subtle differences.

Xingyi: “That’s also why our medicinals couldn’t bring it down. This tumor is congenital—solid flesh, not a newly formed abscess.”

Jian Mo: “It is troublesome—but since it hasn’t turned malignant, surgery should be relatively manageable.”

Man Zhi’s beast form was horse-like; he lay quietly on the ground while they discussed him.

If not for the growth, the massive horse would have been strikingly powerful and handsome. With it, the beauty was spoiled—and it interfered with his running and hunting.

After the exam, Jian Mo decided to operate in beast form.

He explained, “Beast bodies are huge. When it was just me and Wu Jiong, doing operations that big was a bit taxing, so I’ve gotten used to operating on the human form. But I’m actually more familiar with beast forms—they feel more natural to me—and it’s more convenient for you to observe. So this time I’d like to operate in beast form.”

Xingyi had no objections and said cheerfully, “Whatever you think best—we’ll listen to you on this.”

Jian Mo: “Then let’s prepare, and I’ll first talk about sterilization.”

He carefully explained surgical sterilization and why it was necessary—this was an area he’d studied systematically, and his explanation was on point.

Listening, Xingyi and the others had a sudden realization. “So there’s so much to it! No wonder our past surgeries didn’t fare well.”

Jian Mo: “What surgeries have you done before?”

Xingyi: “Out on hunts when someone got pierced by branches or spears, we had to operate to remove whatever was lodged in the flesh—does that count as surgery?”

Jian Mo: “Yes. Removing foreign objects is a fairly classic operation.”

Xingyi: “After surgeries like that, we often end up with hard lumps inside, especially in the limbs. Patients feel their hands or feet don’t work as well afterward.”

Jian Mo thought a moment. “Likely tissue adhesions. After such operations, rehabilitation is needed.”

He then explained adhesions and rehab.

Xingyi: “We’re learning so much from you—we didn’t know any of this.”

After discussing surgical knowledge, Jian Mo had them sterilize and put on masks and gloves.

Xingyi’s hands weren’t steady anymore due to age, so he observed while Xingjiu and Wu Jiong assisted Jian Mo.

Man Zhi’s tumor was large, but the procedure wasn’t overly complex.

Jian Mo carefully dissected and freed the mass, then sutured the relevant tissues.

The tumor, once removed, filled an entire basin—heaped to the brim.

If they’d had the equipment and techniques, they should have sent it for histological sectioning, but that wasn’t an option here.

The anesthetics, scalpels, and the long-tail beast sinew used for suturing were all things Jian Mo had brought; it was Xingyi and Xingjiu’s first time seeing such instruments, and they marveled at them.

Once the operation and closure were finished, that was that.

While they rested, Xingyi compared: “Surgery does seem more convenient—done in an afternoon—whereas medicinals take many days.”

Jian Mo: “Different conditions call for different treatments. Fenhui’s case clearly lent itself to medicinals.”

Xingyi nodded in agreement. “True.”

Man Zhi hadn’t woken yet. Xingjiu volunteered to stay and observe, sending Jian Mo and the others off to eat.

The Star-Store Tribe had advanced individualization: no communal meals, no communal hunting. They lived in one tribe but everyone handled their own affairs; only in war did they act as one.

The meal was prepared by a sub-beastman Xingyi had hired; that evening he made soup and tubers.

Jian Mo took a look—the soup turned out to be seafood, with various shellfish, crab pieces, fish, and shrimp, plus vegetables. It was deliciously fresh with a hint of spice.

There were doughy lumps in the soup—apparently the staple—soft and tender to the bite with a plant fragrance.

Smiling, Xingyi asked, “How is it? Can you get used to this?”

Jian Mo nodded. “It’s great—very fresh.”

Wu Jiong said, “I like it a lot.”

Xingyi: “Eat more, then. This is our local specialty soup dumpling—I had them made just for you.”

Jian Mo: “Then we won’t be polite.”

Xingyi added, “Stay a while longer. Let’s exchange and learn more.”

That was exactly what Jian Mo wanted. He asked, “May I look at your prescriptions? I’m very interested and would like to copy them.”

Xingyi: “Of course. We’d also like to record your surgical techniques—and your sterilization methods.”

Jian Mo agreed without hesitation. “No problem at all. If it’s convenient, we can start tonight. I can’t read your script, so I’ll need someone to help translate.”

Xingyi: “Let Xingjiu do it. He’s familiar with everything in the formulas.”

Jian Mo smiled. “Perfect. I’ll copy and ask questions as I go—please be ready for lots of questions, Xingjiu.”

With consensus reached, both sides decided to exchange skills.

Jian Mo felt a surge of excitement. After being here so long, he could finally study properly.

If he truly mastered this, he could call himself a witch-doctor without feeling a pang of guilt.

Chapter 171: Inheritance

When Jian Mo said he couldn’t read the script, Xingyi was a little surprised.

The beastman language they used nowadays was a common tongue; anything written in it, Xingyi could read.
That Jian Mo didn’t recognize these characters truly caught him off guard.

Xingyi quickly adjusted his expression and smiled. “Looks like the writing where you’re from is quite different. I’ll have to see it sometime.”

Jian Mo looked at the kindly, gentle old witch-doctor before him. “Sure.”

Xingyi said, “Let me first tell you about the herbs on this prescription.”

He went over the ingredients at a brisk pace. Listening at the side, Jian Mo realized he knew most of them and had used many before.

So even though the Star-Store Tribe and the Riverside Tribe were far apart, their natural resources were largely similar.

Knowing the herbs made things easier. Jian Mo and his group were quickly assigned tasks and sent out to look for them.

Xingyi’s student Xingjiu said to Jian Mo’s party, “We know where most of these plants grow. It should be easier to find them now.”

Jian Mo: “That’s great.”

Xingjiu led the way. “Our tribe is a bit different from others. It’s a pity we’re in a rush today—otherwise I’d show you around. Come on, this way up the back mountain.”

Xingjiu’s temperament was mild, his speech unhurried.

Jian Mo noticed that teacher and student alike had a cultivated, refined air that set them apart from ordinary folk.

They climbed along a little path trodden by who-knew-how-many generations.

On the way, Jian Mo spotted some heat-clearing, detoxifying herbs—but not ones they needed today.

Chatting with Xingjiu, he found they used the same plants, but in different ways.

The Star-Store Tribe’s processing was clearly more meticulous than at Riverside: some herbs needed sun-drying, some roasting, some oil infusion—whereas Riverside mostly just tossed herbs into a pot to decoct.

That also showed their medical theory and technique here were much stronger. Jian Mo resolved to seize the chance to study hard.

The three of them walked on. When they reached the summit, the view suddenly opened wide.

From the mountaintop, Jian Mo looked down—on one side a plain, on the other the sea.

The sea here was a deep, pure blue, the beaches an inviting white; under the setting sun, it was breathtaking.

Sea wind billowed their clothing and lifted their spirits.

Jian Mo gaped. “There’s an ocean here?”

Xingjiu, who’d been bent over searching for herbs, straightened and followed his gaze, smiling. “Didn’t you see it when you flew in on the winged beasts?”

Jian Mo pointed. “We came overland, and our minds were full of Fenhui’s illness—we didn’t notice anything else.”

Xingjiu: “Well, we do have the sea. Our tribe is right on the shore. In a couple of days, when we’re free, I’ll treat you to seafood.”

Jian Mo: “Deal.”

Xingjiu laughed. “As if I’d trick you?”

After admiring the sea for a bit, Jian Mo bent back to his search.

They’d already found most of the ingredients; only one remained—a grass with especially tiny leaves. Once they found it, they could head down.

Xingjiu roughly knew where it grew, but it wasn’t a cultivated herb. Picking a specific plant out of the thick wild growth took effort.

The three of them combed the summit in a wide circuit, and only when dusk was closing in did they finally gather enough.

It was late; Wu Jiong shifted into a great wolf to carry them down.

Xingjiu was a little embarrassed, then praised him: “Chief Wu Jiong’s beast form is truly imposing.”

Jian Mo sat in front, hugging the great wolf’s neck. “You bet. In our region, Wu Jiong’s beast form is top-tier. Hold my waist tight—don’t fall.”

Xingjiu answered earnestly, “All right.”

The wolf’s stride was huge—six or seven meters at a bound. Running downhill was far faster than the climb.

They made it back before full dark.

Those who had taken Jian Mo out to forage returned as well.

After Xingyi carefully inspected the herbs and confirmed they were fine, he began decocting medicine for Fenhui right outside the house where Jian Mo’s group was temporarily staying.

Jian Mo and Wu Jiong went to help and watch.

When a master works, you can feel the difference.

Jian Mo watched Xingyi separate treatments: some herbs went straight into the pot, some were first roasted, some were dry-stirred in an un-oiled, dry ceramic pan to soften before being added to the decoction.

Soon the clearing bitterness unique to plants drifted across the yard.

Breathing that familiar scent steadied Jian Mo’s heart. He patiently asked about the steps he didn’t understand.

Xingyi said, “We decoct based on each patient’s body. Take Fenhui—he’s weak, so we remove as much toxicity as possible to make the decoction milder. If a patient were sturdier, keeping more of the toxicity is fine—‘fighting poison with poison’ can speed recovery.”

Jian Mo nodded. “I understand. No two people are exactly alike. A responsible witch-doctor can’t give everyone the exact same prescription.”

Xingyi looked up with a smile. “Exactly. If the body’s strong you can be less finicky, but if it’s not, you must be meticulous to avoid mishaps.”

Jian Mo nodded again. “Lesson learned.”

Xingyi continued: “Even with a written formula, you need to mind the order of adding herbs. Sometimes changing the order changes the effect.”

“And the vessel matters. I’ve seen metal-rich tribes use metal pots. That’s wrong—metal itself acts like a medicinal substance. Boiling decoctions in it can ruin the properties. You must use a large ceramic pot.”

Jian Mo mused, “That makes sense. Poor-quality metal can leach things out.”

“Right,” Xingyi said. “If you can taste metal, something’s leaching. That alters the formula. That’s why some patients take their medicine on schedule but never improve—so many ‘little’ details were missed.”

He held nothing back. Whenever Jian Mo grew curious, Xingyi patiently explained the less-known particulars as he worked.

His knowledge was vast, and the way he put things was convincing.

With such clear, grounded explanations, Jian Mo grasped many usages he hadn’t understood before.

Even from this one decoction session, he felt he’d gained a lot.

This trip was already worth it.

When Xingyi finished, Jian Mo sighed. “Back where I was before, at least I’d studied systematically. Here, so much I’ve had to feel out on my own—it’s unsatisfying, like scratching an itch through a boot.”

Xingyi chuckled at the odd idiom. “That’s a good one.”

“It’s true,” Jian Mo laughed. “Feels like I’m hitting the spot and not quite, and there’s no one to make it clear.”

Xilu and Yeluo had passed him prescriptions; when he met matching cases he could just apply them. But no one had taught him why. Without the underlying logic, if a patient’s condition deviated a bit, he’d be at a loss—much less able to synthesize or create new formulas.

His foundation for treating beastmen and sub-beastmen was too thin.

Seeing his confusion, Xingyi said, “When we learned, our teachers taught us hands-on: harvesting—what season you take leaves, what season you take roots, and why; decocting—what you add first, then next, then after that. You need someone to teach it. It’s hard to master just by groping along.”

Jian Mo: “It’s all inheritance.”

Xingyi nodded, approving. “Exactly.”

The medicine was ready. Xingjiu helped Xingyi sit while he picked up two big jars and poured the decoction back and forth to cool it.

Jian Mo hurried to help. “Cooling it faster?”

Xingjiu: “Yes, it’s too hot. We need it cooler so Fenhui can drink.”

Fenhui was sprawled in the courtyard, already fallen into a stupor.

The night breeze ruffled his fur into a mess.

Someone had brought a blanket and covered most of him, though not quite all.

After cooling the brew, Xingjiu and Jian Mo went to rouse Fenhui and feed him.

He didn’t need to shift back; he just lapped it up.

Still gravely ill, he lacked strength—the drinking was feeble. He lapped a long time before finishing the basin, his face wet with medicine.

As he drank, a fine sheen of sweat broke over him—this was one way beastmen differed from large wild animals. Beastmen had sweat glands; even in beast form they could sweat to shed heat.

Xingyi had them observe. “This is ‘empty sweat.’ See how it’s clear like water, not like ordinary sweat? Ordinary sweat feels tacky; when it dries, it leaves a film.”

Neither Xingjiu nor Jian Mo minded getting their hands dirty; they both reached out to check.

Xingyi had two more blankets brought, so they could draw sweat while still keeping Fenhui warm.

Though not at the most critical point, his case was urgent.

They stayed with him the whole time.

After one round of sweating, Fenhui rallied a little and blinked at them.

Still a big fox, his blinking looked rather cute.

Xingyi laughed and patted him gently.

He checked the tongue, ears, and armpits, then lay his ear to Fenhui’s body to listen to the organs.

“There are many causes and many presentations,” Xingyi said. “We have to infer the illness from the signs the body gives. That demands great care and patience. Misjudge the cause, and your prescription doesn’t match—then you simply won’t cure it.”

Jian Mo nodded repeatedly.

“As for why I judged Fenhui’s liver inflamed,” Xingyi went on, “you can look for signs on the tongue, ears, armpits, pupils, and you must listen to the belly’s sounds. Not just before prescribing—after he drinks, listen again to see whether it’s working.”

He was teaching both Xingjiu and Jian Mo. “You two come listen—get a feel for how it sounds after he’s taken the medicine.”

They both nodded and took turns listening carefully.

Smiling, Xingyi said, “That’s our approach to diagnosis and treatment. If it’s convenient, Witch-Doctor Jian Mo, perhaps you could share your methods as well?”

Chapter 207: Extra Seven – It Turns Out the Unstable Time-Space Was Me — Going Back to Take a Look

Jian Mo and Wu Jiong rode the giant wolf and ran around outside before climbing the mountain again to look.

Night had fallen. Moonlight bathed the land, making everything serene.

In the distance, the lights of the town sparkled, as if mirroring the stars in the sky.

Jian Mo hugged the small white wolf, now in its reduced form, and looked toward the town: “No electricity. The lights must be oil lamps.”

Wu Jiong held the small gray cat, stroking its back intermittently: “Not as developed as the world we went to before.”

Jian Mo nodded: “I think so too. But maybe the two civilizations aren’t of the same type, so it’s not fair to compare them.”

Wu Jiong: “Could be.”

They didn’t go down the mountain to explore; they just stayed on top and watched.

In the latter half of the night, dew settled. Wu Jiong asked the small white wolf to grow larger and carried Jian Mo onto its back to sleep.

Jian Mo hugged the small gray cat. Wu Jiong held Jian Mo. They slept on the back of the giant wolf, which curled up and rested its head on its chest, keeping watch over them.

The wolf’s furry ears were right in front of Jian Mo. He couldn’t resist stroking them: “Feels like a dream.”

Wu Jiong: “You mean sleeping on my spiritual form feels like a dream?”

Jian Mo shook his head: “No, I mean the whole experience feels dreamlike. We have a story back home called ‘The Yellow Millet Dream’. Sometimes I wonder… could my life be a dream?”

Wu Jiong: “What’s that story about?”

Jian Mo explained: “It’s about someone dreaming that they became very powerful and had a very powerful partner.”

He retold the story in a way Wu Jiong could understand.

Wu Jiong thought for a moment: “But didn’t you say people can’t dream about things they’ve never experienced?”

Jian Mo: “That’s the saying… hmm.” Wu Jiong lowered his head and kissed Jian Mo.

Their lips and tongues met, sending a tingling sensation through Jian Mo. He struggled to breathe and gripped Wu Jiong’s hand tightly.

After a moment, Wu Jiong whispered: “See, this isn’t something you could just dream of.”

Jian Mo took a deep breath: “Makes sense.”

Wu Jiong was his first love. He hadn’t been so close with anyone else. Such detailed experiences could never appear in a dream.

Jian Mo smiled, about to say more, when he noticed the small gray cat and the giant wolf watching them intently.

Noticing his gaze, the wolf twitched its ears, and the small gray cat scratched its ear with its hind leg.

The two spiritual forms continued observing them, seemingly very interested.

Under their intense attention, the couple’s ears warmed slightly.

Jian Mo couldn’t deal with the giant wolf, so he held the small gray cat in his arms, covering its face with his hand and gently rubbing it: “What are you staring at?”

The gray cat wasn’t a real cat. It didn’t scratch or bite. It softly mewed: “Meow?”

Jian Mo released it and patted its back. He also felt a comforting sensation in his own spine and marveled: “Amazing.”

It was like having your own back massaged.

Wu Jiong also reached out to stroke the gray cat: “I wish we could take them back to our world.”

Jian Mo: “That would be hard. Bringing them back might cause trouble.”

They continued chatting. Though the spiritual forms seemed unusual, they were manifestations of themselves; overcoming that oddness was possible.

When they woke at sunrise, Jian Mo found Wu Jiong already awake, leaning on the giant wolf and gazing into the distance. The wolf and gray cat were still sleeping soundly, curled up, their little bellies rising and falling.

Before Jian Mo could look closely, Wu Jiong turned to him and offered a hand: “Awake? There’s a stream nearby; shall we wash up?”

“Okay.” Jian Mo climbed down from the wolf. “Should we bring these two along?”

Wu Jiong: “We can leave them here.” Jian Mo: “Better not bother them.”

Jian Mo felt that the spiritual forms were like a massive, tangible subconscious, not entirely under his control. This kind of manifestation was rare; it might disappear when they returned home. Better to enjoy it a little longer.

The nearby stream ensured they wouldn’t wander far.

After washing up, since making a fire was inconvenient, they only gathered some wild fruits and edible vegetables to get by.

Jian Mo looked at the food: “I’m starting to miss home.”

Wu Jiong: “Later we’ll go to the lake. Once the channel appears, we’ll head back immediately.”

Jian Mo: “I wonder if we can actually return to our world this time.”

Wu Jiong held his hand: “We will. I have a good feeling.”

Returning with the food, the wolf and gray cat had woken.

Spiritual forms couldn’t eat normal food and weren’t interested in what they carried.

They shared a simple breakfast and then headed to the lake with the spiritual forms.

The lake had no patrols, so no one interfered.

They sat in the woods, chatting and petting the spiritual forms.

By evening, familiar shadows appeared in the water.

Jian Mo stood immediately, pulling Wu Jiong: “Let’s go. We have to return quickly.”

The small white wolf and gray cat also stood up.

Bending down, Jian Mo patted them one last time: “Goodbye.”

Gray cat: “Meow.”
White wolf: “Woof.”

Wu Jiong also petted them: “If we get the chance, we’ll come back to this world and let them out.”

Jian Mo: “Okay.”

The two spiritual forms turned into beams of light and merged back into their bodies.

Not daring to delay, they grabbed their belongings, put on clothes and shoes, and entered the lake.

This was to avoid accidentally appearing in another world naked.

Holding hands tightly, they swam to the shadows, submerged, and resurfaced.

Almost instantly, Jian Mo felt it—they had returned to the beastmen world.

Wu Jiong felt it too.

Jian Mo grabbed Wu Jiong’s hand: “Quick, let’s not stay here. Get to shore.”

Wu Jiong: “Okay.”

They swam to the shore, climbed out, and found their baskets, clothes, and even the food still intact. No one had disturbed them.

It seemed they hadn’t traveled through time; they had merely taken a swim in the lake.

Jian Mo checked and asked Wu Jiong: “Do you think we went back to the evening two days ago, when we swam in the lake?”

Wu Jiong: “Could be. Otherwise, Qing Kuo and the others would’ve noticed and come looking, and we’d have brought the things back.”

Jian Mo wiped his face, glanced around, and wistfully noted the spiritual forms were gone: “This scene… feels like The Yellow Millet Dream.”

Wu Jiong took the items off his back: “Not a dream. We brought back the food.”

Two mud-wrapped packages contained cloud scorpion breast meat, sealed and somewhat waterproof.

Jian Mo sighed: “Next time we’ll swim in another lake—this was too intense.”

Wu Jiong: “Alright. Wait for me.”

He shed his clothes and transformed into the giant wolf.

Jian Mo climbed onto his back with the supplies, holding the neck: “Go.”

The wolf ran steadily.

Back at the tribe, they first heard cubs laughing and playing, mixed with Zhu Zhu’s familiar cries.

Jian Mo looked: lion cubs, fox cubs, little fat Zhu, and a small panda were playing together, with Zhu Zhu guiding them.

Jian Mo shouted: “What game are you playing?”

Little fat Zhu said loudly: “Freeze tag, Jian Mo-gege!”

Jian Mo laughed: “How’s it going? Zhu Zhu is coming home with us.”

Zhu Zhu ran to the wolf, the cubs following, looking up at them.

Zhu Zhu stood on hind legs, paw on the wolf’s back, trying to reach Jian Mo.

Jian Mo grabbed its chubby face: “Zhu Zhu, what are you doing? Get down, Wu Jiong can’t carry you.”

Wolf: “I can.”

Zhu Zhu’s eyes sparkled, staring at Jian Mo: “Zhu Zhu.”

Little fat Zhu tilted his head: “Jian Mo-gege, your ears look different.”

Jian Mo shook his wolf ears: “Really?”

The panda cub observed carefully: “Jian Mo-gege, you look… different.”

The cubs’ senses were sharp. Jian Mo hadn’t expected them to notice immediately and laughed it off: “We’re just a little tired from being out. Let’s go wash up; we’ll play next time.”

At that moment, Mo A came down the mountain to fetch the cubs.

Little fat Zhu had been visiting Ji Xun’s house, so would return with the panda cub and attend class the next afternoon.

The cubs’ ages meant they were ready for lessons.

The panda cub was quiet and attentive; little fat Zhu was

more mischievous, often sleepy in class but energetic afterward.

Jian Mo guessed the panda might grow into a shaman or scholar, while little fat Zhu could become a merchant.

Wu Jiong returned to human form and chatted briefly with Mo A.

Mo A asked: “Where did you go? Another trip?”

Jian Mo: “No, we were in the tribe this morning.”

Mo A looked suspicious: “I feel like you went on a long trip.”

Jian Mo smiled: “Maybe just an illusion. We’re tired; we’ll talk tomorrow.”

Little fat Zhu waved goodbye: “Bye, Jian Mo-gege! Bye, Wu Jiong-gege!”

Jian Mo smiled: “Bye!”

They returned home and called Zhu Zhu along.

Ying Ao had returned with plenty of food, filling their bowls.

Seeing Jian Mo and Wu Jiong, Ying Ao tilted its head in curiosity: “Zhu?”

Jian Mo waved: “Come out! We brought something tasty. See if you like it.”

Ying Ao slowly emerged: “Zhu?”

Jian Mo cracked open a mud-wrapped package. The smell made Zhu Zhu jump with excitement: “Zhu Zhu!”

Jian Mo: “Cloud scorpion breast meat from elsewhere. One piece each, no fighting.”

Wu Jiong handed Zhu Zhu her portion, who eagerly grabbed it and ran to eat.

Wu Jiong handed the second piece to Ying Ao.

Ying Ao sniffed and pawed at Wu Jiong: “Zhu!” indicating him to eat.

Jian Mo: “These two pieces are for you. Eat.”

Ying Ao finally took the meat calmly.

Zhu Zhu finished hers and looked at Ying Ao’s.

Jian Mo intervened: “One piece each. Ying Ao, eat yours; Zhu Zhu can’t take it!”

Zhu Zhu sulked, watching.

After finishing, Jian Mo and Wu Jiong returned to rest.

The past few days in other worlds had been exhausting.

As soon as they left, Ying Ao had actually spit out a piece of meat and offered it to Zhu Zhu, who took it immediately.

Zhu Zhu then rubbed Ying Ao’s head affectionately.

After resting a few days, Jian Mo and Wu Jiong went out to gather supplies.

Jian Mo avoided Bai Sha Islet: “Don’t want to go to other worlds for now—it’s too tiring.”

Wu Jiong: “We can swim in the Ambus Mountains pools. The water isn’t as big as the lake, but still fun.”

Jian Mo jumped onto Wu Jiong’s back: “Okay, let’s go there.”

Wu Jiong: “I’ll pack up; we’ll eat dinner there.”

Jian Mo: “I love picnics.”

They packed and left, sending Zhu Zhu home.

Jian Mo secretly brought a box of ointment—he expected to use it after being touched in the spiritual form.

After traveling, his cat ears had fully perked up—a new experience for them.

He packed neatly, bringing a spare set of clothes.

Wu Jiong kissed him.

They went out.

The Ambus Mountains pools were amazing—clear, deep water, bright stars, and perfect wind.

They swam, ate, swam again, and cleaned up. Only after the moon rose high did Jian Mo, exhausted but content, lie on the giant wolf: “Let’s go home.”

The wolf carried him steadily, running down the mountain, across plains and forests. Jian Mo dozed on its back.

Near the tribe, Jian Mo noticed something along a side path and froze.

The wolf sensed it: “What is it?”

Jian Mo: “I saw that path again.”

Wolf: “The one to home?”

Jian Mo rubbed the wolf: “Yes.”

He hesitated: “We might have misunderstood.”

Wolf: “What?”

Jian Mo: “It might not be Bai Sha Islet that’s unstable… maybe it’s me who’s unstable.”

Wolf: “Let’s go home first.”

Jian Mo held tighter: “Okay.”

Back home, their mood was less relaxed than before.

Wu Jiong asked: “Want to try going back?”

Jian Mo: “I’m conflicted.”

Wu Jiong touched his forehead: “Do you want to go back?”

Jian Mo did, but only if it wouldn’t affect their current life.

He sighed: “Before, when I wanted to go back, the channel never appeared. Now I don’t want to go, and the unstable channel appears… What if it happens suddenly if we ignore it?”

Wu Jiong speculated the channel might only take Jian Mo: “Next time we see it, we’ll try going back?”

Jian Mo: “I’ll think about it.”

The channel to Jian Mo’s world seemed stable, and the next day they saw it again. Several in the tribe saw it too.

Qing Kuo asked Wu Jiong: “A new path appeared. Should we send someone to check?”

Wu Jiong: “Let’s see. We might be gone a few days. If we don’t return, watch Zhu Zhu, Ying Ao, and the others.”

Qing Kuo sensed something off: “Is it dangerous? Then don’t go.”

Wu Jiong, with experience, said: “No danger. We’ll be back.”

Qing Kuo: “Alright, as long as you’re sure.”

Wu Jiong smiled: “Don’t worry. It’s the future, right? Records and legends exist; there’s no mention of us disappearing young. We’ll return soon.”

Jian Mo: “Makes sense.”

Wu Jiong patted his back: “So don’t fear. If we don’t go, you’ll remember it forever.”

Jian Mo quietly agreed: “Okay.”

Wu Jiong retrieved Jian Mo’s old belongings—umbrella, keys, dead phone—everything from when he first arrived. Old clothes and shoes were unusable.

They informed the tribe, said goodbye to Zhu Zhu and Ying Ao, then hand in hand walked to the new path.

The path was near the tribe. They soon arrived.

Stepping onto it, nothing special happened. The scenery blurred, the air felt different, then it was gone.

Neither felt uncomfortable.

Jian Mo observed Wu Jiong’s face carefully.

Wu Jiong: “What are you looking at?”

Jian Mo: “Do you feel your mind suddenly has things that aren’t your memories?”

Wu Jiong concentrated: “No.”

Jian Mo took a deep breath: “Let’s go.”

They followed the path to a stone staircase, then saw the city below—Jian Mo’s familiar city.

It was different from the city they had traveled to. Buildings, roads, vegetation, sky, and sunlight all differed.

Previously, Jian Mo hadn’t noticed—his city’s sky had been gray, sunlight orange-tinted, air dry.

Seeing him dazed, Wu Jiong asked: “Is this your original world?”

Jian Mo looked down, hearing car horns, and nodded: “It should be.”

Wu Jiong: “Then let’s go down.”

Jian Mo inhaled deeply, held Wu Jiong’s hand: “Let’s go.”

His cat ears had retracted. His clothing was a bit odd, but others dressed strangely too; no one would pay much attention.

He guessed Wu Jiong’s height and appearance made him stand out slightly, but he didn’t care.

Step by step, they descended the mountain.

On the way, they saw familiar faces buying groceries.

The acquaintances looked confused seeing Wu Jiong with Jian Mo.

Jian Mo nodded silently and continued home.

At the door, Jian Mo introduced: “This was my old home. Clinic downstairs, living spaces upstairs.”

Wu Jiong: “Much better than my old home.”

Jian Mo: “No, yours was beautiful too.”

He inhaled deeply: “Come in; I’ll show you around.”

Using the key, he opened the door and led Wu Jiong inside.

The floor was clean, the air fresh. Jian Mo plugged in his phone.

Moments later, it turned on. Time showed that despite all the traveling, only a day had passed. Messages in chat groups hadn’t updated much.

Everything seemed as before. But—

Jian Mo looked at his partner, eyes watering. Everything felt different now. He had a home.

Wu Jiong noticed, met his gaze, and kissed him: “What’s wrong?”

Jian Mo: “I just feel lucky to have met you.”

Wu Jiong held his hand tightly.

Jian Mo sniffled: “Let’s go upstairs. I’ll show you my room. Then we’ll go shopping and eat.”

Back in this world, he wanted to use the money he had painstakingly saved—it would be wasteful not to!

—End of Extra Chapter—

Chapter 206 (Extra 6): The Little Gray Cat and Little White Wolf Spirit Forms

Jian Mo and Wu Jiong returned to the lakeshore to wait.

They sat in the woods at dusk, watching ripples glitter across the surface, planning to slip under once the passage opened again.

Jian Mo rested his cheek on his knees and looked at Wu Jiong sideways. “What a wild experience. Think we’ll ever get to do this again?”

Wu Jiong reached over and laced their fingers. “We can stroll by the lake more often. Who knows—maybe we’ll figure out a pattern.”

“I still think it’s a fluke,” Jian Mo said.

“I’m not so sure,” Wu Jiong replied. “I just don’t know the cause.”

As they spoke, a round shadow bloomed across the water.

Anyone else on the shore would have thought it was a cloud’s reflection. Only they knew—it was their way home.

Jian Mo sprang up, tugging Wu Jiong’s hand. “Come on. Into the lake.”

Better to slip in before the patrol noticed them, or things could get complicated.

This time they didn’t bother taking off clothes or shoes—if they ended up somewhere strange again, at least they wouldn’t have to scrounge for outfits.

Hand in hand, they swam toward the dark patch—awkward as anything, but neither dared let go for fear some accident would separate them.

Fortunately the shadow wasn’t far. After a short swim they drew close.

Jian Mo glanced back. “The patrol’s out—let’s—”

Wu Jiong didn’t answer. He just pulled Jian Mo under and pushed through the shadow, then surfaced.

It felt like slipping through gel for a heartbeat—then water was just water again, and that peculiar viscosity seemed like a trick of the mind.

The instant they broke the surface, Jian Mo swept his gaze along the bank.

No houses for patrollers—good. They’d left that timeline!

Joy flared in his chest, but before he could smile, two animals burst up beside them.

A gray blur came at his head—Jian Mo yelped, dragged Wu Jiong aside, and splashed away.

The animals bobbed up, paddling innocently: a fluffy long-haired gray cat with a sweet face, and a pudgy little white wolf. Both floated in place, occasionally pawing the water, four bright eyes fixed on Jian Mo and Wu Jiong.

A bad feeling pricked Jian Mo. He edged back with Wu Jiong. “Where did the kitten and wolf pup come from? Don’t they look… familiar?”

Wu Jiong’s brows knit. “The little gray cat looks like you. The little white wolf looks like me.”

Jian Mo’s scalp tingled. “Don’t tell me we’ve jumped to another timeline where these are our kids?”

He even palmed his own belly—his reproductive canal still hadn’t fully healed; he couldn’t have birthed anything. Maybe parallel worlds worked differently?

“Let’s get ashore first,” Wu Jiong said.

They swam for land. The kitten and wolf pup followed.

At the very moment their feet touched bottom, the gray kitten flashed into a streak of light and slipped straight into Jian Mo’s body. The white wolf turned into white radiance and flowed into Wu Jiong.

Jian Mo’s beast ears popped out—thick and soft. They twitched: pure startle.

He and Wu Jiong locked eyes. “You saw that, right?”

Wu Jiong nodded. “I saw.”

He frowned at the ground; a pale glow rose from him, gathered, and condensed into a little white wolf on the earth.

The pup blinked up at them with glossy black eyes, lifted a hind leg to scratch an ear, and yipped, “Wao-ao—”

Oh no. Adorable. Jian Mo stared at the pup. “What is going on?”

“It feels like the little one is part of us,” Wu Jiong said. “Try calling your gray cat out. Focus and summon it.”

“Okay… I’ll try.”

Jian Mo drew a deep breath and pictured the kitten he’d just seen.

A haze of gray light seeped from him, and the little gray cat took shape on the ground, tipping its round head back to meow at him. “Mrrp.”

“It really came out?”

He crouched to pick it up—and found it had a real body: warm, soft, fur sleek beneath his fingers. The kitten licked the back of his hand with a rasp of barbed tongue.

Jian Mo, speechless, held the cat up for Wu Jiong to see. “Look.”

Wu Jiong’s big hand came down to scritch the kitten’s head—and Jian Mo felt fingers rub his own scalp, a pleasant shiver fanning up from his tailbone.

He jolted. “!”

“You can feel it when I pet it?” Wu Jiong asked.

“Absolutely. Here—let me touch your pup.”

He passed the kitten to Wu Jiong, then stroked the little white wolf.

The pup lolled a pink tongue, tail whipping like a metronome and even wiggling its butt. “Wao-ao!”

Jian Mo had never met a wolf pup this exuberant. Even chubby little Zhoudao would seem reserved next to this one. Of course—Wu Jiong loved him; Wu Jiong’s manifested pup would love him too.

Wu Jiong cradled the kitten, studying it. “Amazing.”

“I think so too,” Jian Mo said. “Also—the gray patch in the lake is gone.”

Wu Jiong looked back at the water. No trace of a passage. “Maybe it only appears around dusk, and vanishes quickly.”

“Could be. What now—take a look around?”

“Let’s. See what kind of world this is.”

They tried to recall the manifested wolf and cat, but they weren’t very practiced. The moment they relaxed their focus, the little ones popped back out. After a few attempts, they gave up.

So be it. Tag-alongs weren’t the worst thing.

“Can you still transform?” Jian Mo asked.

“I can’t,” Wu Jiong said. “But I can make the white wolf bigger.”

He looked at the pup.

Under his gaze, the little white wolf swelled to the size of a giant wolf—exactly like Wu Jiong in beast form.

There was one difference: when Wu Jiong beast-shifted his tail usually hung low; the spirit wolf’s tail spun like a propeller, tongue lolling—more Samoyed than dire wolf.

Watching that tail made Jian Mo’s mood lift without thinking.

“Come on,” Wu Jiong said. “We’ll ride.”

The giant wolf crouched to let them climb up.

At the same instant, the gray kitten sprang from Jian Mo’s arms, bounded up in two, three hops, and perched primly on the wolf’s head like a sitting hen.

Jian Mo gaped. “Where did it learn that?”

“Instinct, maybe,” Wu Jiong said. “Let’s get on.”

He helped Jian Mo up, then mounted behind him.

Pressed back against Wu Jiong’s chest, astride a wolf that was also Wu Jiong, Jian Mo felt oddly giddy. “I never imagined… us… like this. Wild.”

“Me neither,” Wu Jiong said. “Riding my own beast form.”

“Like a dream, right?” Jian Mo laughed softly. “Where to?”

“Let’s scout nearby. There might be people—or a town.”

He urged the wolf forward. They hadn’t gone far when several people with bows came sprinting toward them. “Guides? Are you Guides?”

Their speech was in the beastmen tongue, but with a heavy accent.

Jian Mo and Wu Jiong didn’t catch the first sentence; they stared from the wolf’s back. Even the kitten on the wolf’s head blinked uncertainly at them.

The newcomers seemed puzzled by the awkward silence. “We’re Sentinels requesting aid. Our teammate was attacked by cloud-scorpions—his spirit form is close to collapse. We urgently need a powerful Guide!”

“Wait, we can’t—” Jian Mo began.

But they’d already made up their minds. “You must be a strong Guide and Sentinel. Please, come take a look—please!”

Jian Mo, as a physician, could never refuse a plea like that.

Seeing the tiger-eyed man near tears, he exchanged a look with Wu Jiong and nodded. They might as well go—learn about this world as they helped.

The runners brightened and led the way. “He’s just ahead. His spirit form is collapsing—we didn’t dare move him.”

The giant wolf easily matched their pace.

“Do you have any medicine?” Jian Mo asked as they ran.

“There’s medicine for spirit-form collapse?”

“I don’t have any on me,” Jian Mo said. “Do you?”

“We don’t either.”

They crested a low hill and saw the fallen man. His companions hovered, frantic.

Next to him sprawled a massive, octopus-like creature—only its eyes were rolled back and its dozens of tangled tentacles were knotted together, some tied two or three times over. The whole thing lay there like a ruined seafood platter.

No wonder they said the man was dying; one look and Jian Mo felt the same.

“Guide, sir,” someone begged, “that’s my teammate. Can you save him?”

Jian Mo hadn’t expected being a Guide would also mean doctoring. He thought a moment. “I’ll try untangling the tentacles. If I can ease the snarl, he should stabilize.”

The man’s eyes lit. “You really can see his spirit form. Please.”

Only then did Jian Mo realize the others couldn’t see the giant octopus.

He glanced at Wu Jiong, who nodded slightly. “I can’t see it.”

So—only Guides, then.

Jian Mo slid down from the wolf.

The kitten hopped from wolf-head to wolf-back to thigh, rolled to the ground, shook out its fur, and pranced to the octopus.

Jian Mo wasn’t sure how to give it instructions; he pointed at the octopus, then at the kitten.

The kitten cocked its head, then pounced—pawing at a knotted tentacle.

Oddly, at the kitten’s touch the knot loosened almost by itself, the tentacle springing open as if remembering its own elasticity.

The kitten worked diligently, flicking its ears now and then. Each time it finished a strand, it smoothed it down—like combing hair.

As the kitten labored, the man on the ground visibly improved: less gray, breathing steadier.

Jian Mo stepped up and, relying on experience, listened to chest and belly. “He’s stabilizing.”

“That’s great!” his companions cried, eyes shining with tears. “Thank you!”

“Let us repay you—once we drive the cloud-scorpions back, we’ll cut the breast meat and eat to rebuild.”

Jian Mo and Wu Jiong had heard them mention cloud-scorpions earlier; they weren’t sure what they were. From the tone, they sounded… desirable?

They traded a curious glance. This world felt very different from the beastman one.

The kitten kept combing; the giant wolf shrank back to a pup and wagged in front of it, head tilted, staring.

After a while, the white pup suddenly whipped its head toward the distance and bark-howled: “Wao-ao!”

The others stiffened. “Cloud-scorpions again! Prepare for combat!”

“I’m in,” Wu Jiong said.

They made room for him, vowing, “Don’t worry—we’ll protect the Guide. Not a scratch.”

Wu Jiong nodded.

A thrumming of wings rose from ahead.

Jian Mo, still directing the kitten, glanced up—and saw a swarm of insects the size of helicopters, six or seven clustered together, winging toward them. Each bore a glossy black tail-stinger that made his skin crawl.

Gooseflesh rippled up his arms. He rubbed them and shouted, “Be careful!”

Wu Jiong looked back and signed “I’m fine.” Calm down.

As they exchanged a look, the others burst into multicolored light; spirit forms flared into giant beasts and charged the incoming scorpions.

The giant wolf held back at first—no rash moves. It studied a moment, watched how the others fought, then bounded sideways and, using its agility and seasoned hunting sense, avoided mandibles and tail, clamped the side of a cloud-scorpion—

Crunch.

One down.

The rest were tied up with other beasts, too busy to notice. But seeing a comrade fall, the swarm keened—a shrill, furious cry.

Their allies were competent; they locked the scorpions down and kept them off the wolf.

Wu Jiong’s gaze stayed cool; he steered the wolf to an edge target, leapt, and with one decisive bite—crack—down it went.

Two in a row. Everyone understood its strength now and moved to support.

Whether it was a good day or the wolf’s prowess, the fight didn’t last long. The swarm was brought down.

They urged Wu Jiong to rest, then drew knives to split the scorpions’ chests, lifting out two translucent, jewel-bright fillets from each—like lychee flesh, gleaming and beautiful.

“Cloud-scorpion breast doesn’t keep,” someone said. “Let’s roast it now—and spirit forms can eat too. We’ll feed them.”

“Do whatever you usually do,” Wu Jiong said.

They scattered to prepare. Some plucked big leaves, marinated the meat, wrapped it in leaves, coated the bundles in mud, then set them to roast in the coals.

Jian Mo couldn’t help staring—just like beggar’s chicken.

By now the kitten had nearly finished untangling the octopus; urgency had ebbed.

These people clearly had robust wilderness skills. From a few motions Jian Mo could tell the meat would be delicious.

Sure enough, a complex aroma soon drifted from the fire—meaty, slightly oceany, with a faint fruity note—mouthwatering.

Hunger tugged at Jian Mo’s very soul; even while directing the kitten he kept getting distracted.

They turned the mud parcels diligently, then cracked them open and announced, “Done—let’s eat.”

They’d exchanged names by then. Someone carefully unwrapped two glistening fillets—lobster-like cloud-scorpion breast—on clean fresh leaves and brought them to Jian Mo and Wu Jiong.

“Cloud-scorpion breast is special,” the server said. “Spirit forms can eat it too. Thank you for your help.”

“I’ll have my spirit form eat first,” Jian Mo said. “Once it rests and recovers, I’ll continue smoothing your friend’s.”

They all agreed at once.

They sat to eat. The kitten and pup each got a portion. Big-eyed and curious, they sniffed and took tentative bites.

At the kitten’s first mouthful, warmth blossomed through Jian Mo’s spirit—like the mellow rush after sweets, deeply satisfying.

Strange—and strong.

The kitten clearly had its own likes and moods. After tasting, it hopped, patted the ground with its forepaws, and set to with a happy purr.

Jian Mo glanced at the white pup—already eating with gusto, edging into wolf-down-wolf-gulp territory. Thankfully the breast had no bones; otherwise Jian Mo might’ve been prepping to remove splinters after the octopus job.

Sitting close, Wu Jiong tore off a piece and held it to Jian Mo’s lips. “Try it. It’s excellent.”

Jian Mo bit down—and an indescribable flavor unfurled across his tongue: an absolute pinnacle of umami, like a rising mist enclosing him whole. He’d never imagined deliciousness could be so dominant—stoking appetite to a boil; he craved the next bite before he’d swallowed the first.

Piping hot, impossibly savory—the richness filled his mouth. The more he ate, the hungrier he got, until sweat beaded the bridge of his nose.

After one taste, he understood the kitten and pup’s urgency.

No—they weren’t urgent enough. At least they maintained manners. Humans at great food? That’s when you see true wolfing—fast, fierce, not wasting a single drop.

When they finished, people looked ready to lick their fingers—and then they actually crumpled the serving leaves and popped them in their mouths with blissful faces.

Thinking the leaves must taste good too, Jian Mo tried a bite and was walloped by bitter astringency.

Right—probably not edible, except today they’d soaked up essence from the meat.

Noticing his look, someone rubbed his neck. “The best part of a cloud-scorpion is the breast, then the tail-stinger. We can rarely afford to eat it ourselves. Sorry for losing our heads a bit.”

“Understandable,” Jian Mo said. “We almost never get something this good either.”

“We saved two pieces for you to take,” the man added. “You can have them for breakfast.”

Thinking of Qiuqiu and Ying’ao back home, Jian Mo didn’t refuse. “Thanks. We’ll rest a moment, then I’ll finish smoothing him.”

They nodded, earnest.

The patient came first. Jian Mo didn’t rest long before directing the kitten again. When the kitten tired, a dull ache throbbed in Jian Mo’s skull—but he could still manage. He wasn’t one to quit.

After a long stretch, the last knots on the octopus loosened and sprang free. Its host opened his eyes.

Jian Mo hurried over, examined him, asked a few questions. The man was conscious, though foggy—likely some aftereffects. But everything was improving; he should recover soon.

“I’m not a specialist in this sort of condition,” Jian Mo told the group. “When you get back, find someone reliable to reinforce the treatment.”

They nodded quickly.

Jian Mo glanced at Wu Jiong—time to go. Sleeping among strangers didn’t feel ideal; better to find their own place for the night.

Wu Jiong agreed.

When the others heard they were leaving, they cut off several cloud-scorpion stingers for them as payment. When Jian Mo and Wu Jiong declined the local coinage, they added two knives and two jars of spices.

A good haul.

Pleased, Jian Mo waved goodbye, climbed onto the giant wolf with Wu Jiong, whistled for the kitten, and headed off to find a place to sleep.

Chapter 205: Extra Five – Transported to the Modern World of Beastmen

In this era, changing clothes into beast form wasn’t as convenient. Wu Jiong hadn’t transformed, so the two of them walked slowly, following the directions on the road signs.

Jian Mo was relieved that the text they encountered wasn’t too dense. By guessing and context, he could recognize most of it. As for the spoken language, though heavily accented, he could roughly understand it.

They asked people for directions while walking and eventually reached a park.

The park had plenty of street lamps. Some people were taking walks, others were playing with cubs, creating a lively atmosphere.

Jian Mo looked around. He didn’t see anyone dancing in squares or singing—this place was still different from Earth.

Wu Jiong’s gaze flickered as he looked ahead. Jian Mo could tell he was in a good mood and asked quietly, “What is it? What are you thinking?”

Wu Jiong lowered his voice: “I didn’t expect people now to live so comfortably, so peacefully. I wish Zhu Zhu and the others could come too. We could fly up and see everything from the sky.”

Jian Mo reassured him: “Let’s see if we can find a mountain to climb; the view from above will be similar.”

Wu Jiong nodded: “Good.”

The two of them strolled in the park for a while and found several sculptures.

One sculpture had a plaque that read: “Doctor Jian Mo and Chief Wu Jiong”. The sculpture depicted a young man sitting atop a giant wolf.

The young man’s features were sculpted to appear delicate, while the giant wolf looked imposing and majestic.

Jian Mo walked around and saw text on the side of the sculpture, recording their deeds.

He was stunned and looked several times, saying to Wu Jiong: “This sculpture doesn’t look like us at all.”

Jian Mo’s appearance was more refined than delicate, and Wu Jiong’s beast form wasn’t that majestic—he looked more stern than elegant.

Wu Jiong commented: “The sculpture looks new. Whoever carved it must have never seen us in real life.”

Jian Mo: “That’s possible.” He nudged Wu Jiong with his shoulder: “How does it feel to see a sculpture of yourself?”

Wu Jiong remained calm: “This sculpture isn’t us—it’s their imagination of us. It has little to do with the real us.”

Jian Mo: “If there’s a sculpture, there must be other records too. I suddenly feel like looking for a bookstore or library.”

Wu Jiong held his hand and glanced around: “Let’s keep walking and ask people along the way.”

They walked out along the road, asking several people, and eventually found a small self-service book kiosk that was open day and night.

The kiosk was unmanned, with no other customers. On the table at the entrance was a small cash box for self-service purchases.

Through the glass side of the box, Jian Mo could see metal coins inside.

The coins were finely crafted, almost like artworks, engraved with different patterns according to their denominations.

Jian Mo tugged at Wu Jiong’s sleeve and whispered: “Don’t these coins remind you of the brooches we developed for the hunting festival?”

Wu Jiong studied them for a while: “The patterns are somewhat similar.”

Jian Mo couldn’t help but marvel: “Amazing! Let’s see what books they have.”

They browsed the small kiosk for a while and found history books, regional records, magazines, and novels.

Jian Mo pointed to a novel: “Look, this one is about our deeds.”

Wu Jiong looked at the cover: “Chief and Doctor—what?”

Jian Mo checked: “Seems like a legendary love story? Uh… a bit awkward. The content has nothing to do with us.”

After so many years, the text had evolved differently from what Jian Mo had taught. He could only rely on context and guesswork to understand small portions.

It was clear, though, that they had a melodramatic novel in their hands—unrelated to their real lives.

Wu Jiong picked up another book. Jian Mo leaned over: “The Chronicle of Shamanic Healers’ Glory—another romance novel.”

Wu Jiong flipped through it: “Different author, same genre.”

Jian Mo felt a strange embarrassment, goosebumps rising, and pushed Wu Jiong: “Put it back! Let’s not read our romance stories. Find something else.”

Wu Jiong: “Like what?”

Jian Mo: “Look for medical books. I’ll try to learn something secretly.”

Wu Jiong put the book back: “Good idea.”

They searched the kiosk but sadly found no professional books.

It felt more like a cultural gift shop for tourists than a real bookstore.

Jian Mo did find one book on the history of shamans, which called “Jian Mo” a Doctor and referred to all other shamans as “shamans.” Doctor seemed a special title for one unique person.

Wu Jiong concentrated on another book, guessing the text carefully.

With nowhere else to go, the two spent the night in the kiosk. At dawn, they held hands and left.

Jian Mo asked: “What did the book you were reading say?”

Wu Jiong: “It said that our area became the center of the continent—the birthplace of the sacred Riverside Tribe. The tribe expanded greatly, absorbed other tribes, and formed the Riverside city-state.”

Jian Mo looked back at the kiosk, astonished: “That impressive? I didn’t see it.”

Wu Jiong held his hand: “It happened long after our time.”

Jian Mo: “Alright… where to now?”

Wu Jiong: “Find a public restroom and freshen up.”

After washing, they felt awake again.

Wu Jiong took Jian Mo to a charitable station providing free breakfast. They each received a pastry, a drink, and a piece of fruit to get through the morning.

Returning the tray, Jian Mo whispered to Wu Jiong: “This era is amazing. I like it here.”

Wu Jiong: “Want to stay longer?”

Jian Mo: “No. Even if it’s nice, it’s not our time. I miss home, Zhu Zhu, and Ying Ao. Let’s go to the museum, then climb a mountain, and maybe wait by the lake to see if we can go back.”

Wu Jiong nodded: “I was thinking the same.”

Hand in hand, they headed to the museum.

After wandering the town for so long, they knew it well and easily found the museum.

It was free to enter. Arriving early, the only people inside were the security guards.

Upon entering the exhibit hall, they saw wall carvings depicting tribal life. At the entrance was a glass-covered sculpture—of themselves. This time, it also included Zhu Zhu and Ying Ao.

Jian Mo pointed through the glass, very pleased: “Look, our family.”

Wu Jiong smiled: “It’s us.”

Following the pathway, they soon saw tools they had used—pottery, metal hammers, surgical knives, backpacks, etc.—some replicas, some real.

Perhaps because they left written records or because beastmen and sub-beastmen were few and had never experienced war, many artifacts remained intact, and records were detailed.

Hand in hand, they explored, seeing both the tools of their era and later developments.

Jian Mo felt deeply moved. At that moment, he sensed time not as flowing, but as block-like—every block existing simultaneously, unchanged. Entering one block of time meant leaving another, but the past hadn’t disappeared, just that most people had left it, with no way back.

Feeling a little overwhelmed, Jian Mo murmured his thoughts to Wu Jiong.

Wu Jiong held his hand tightly: “Anything is possible.”

Their fingers intertwined: “The world feels magical. But as long as we’re together, I can accept all the wonders we experience.”

Wu Jiong: “Me too.”

After leaving the museum, more visitors arrived—beastmen, sub-beastmen, and cubs unable to transform. Cubs were held by their fathers, dressed in little clothes, looking incredibly cute.

Jian Mo looked at the cubs, smiling.

Outside the museum, Wu Jiong said: “Now let’s climb the mountain.”

Jian Mo: “Let’s go to Ji Xun’s mountain. Not sure if their ruins are still there, but it’s high enough to see far.”

Wu Jiong: “Let’s go.”

Outside the town, Wu Jiong found a deserted spot, transformed into a giant wolf, and carried Jian Mo up the mountain.

The wolf ran swiftly through the wind, passing some fine stone houses—likely homes of dispersed villagers. Not everyone lived in tribes.

At Ji Xun’s mountain, they discovered a beautiful small village. Panda cubs played outside, along with some fox and white wolf cubs.

The cubs glanced at them briefly and continued playing.

Jian Mo held the wolf’s neck and whispered: “These must be Ji Xun and Mo A’s descendants. I saw a panda cub that looks like Mo A.”

The wolf nudged Jian Mo’s face: “I see it too.”

Jian Mo: “Amazing.”

Wolf: “Very amazing. Shall we go to the mountain edge?”

Jian Mo hugged the wolf’s neck: “Yes!”

Soon they reached the edge, overlooking the village, town, and flying winged beasts in the distant sky.

They had no idea how many years had passed in this world. Surprisingly, it wasn’t too different from their time—well, except the civilization level.

There was electricity, at least in an electrical era. Industry must have developed.

Yet the land remained quiet—a rare sight. Could it be due to the low population?

In the self-service kiosk, they saw that birth rates were low and population growth minimal.

If the population had grown, the scenery might have been very different.

Jian Mo looked at the beautiful land and thought: Low population growth is truly a gift from heaven.

After a while, the wolf turned its head gently: “Shall we go to the lake?”

It was beautiful here, but this era lacked their homeland, family, and friends—they didn’t belong here.

Jian Mo hugged the wolf’s neck: “Let’s run down and hope we can sleep in our big bed tonight.”

The wolf’s deep, gentle voice: “Hold on tight.”

Jian Mo clutched the wolf again. The wolf ran, carrying him toward White Sand Islet—they were going home.

Chapter 204 (Extra 4): Crossing into the Beastmen’s Modern World

Jian Mo loved swimming.
Lake swimming felt miles better than a pool—vast, quiet, clean, and wonderfully free.

As long as it wasn’t too cold, he’d drag Wu Jiong to the White Sand Shoal for a dip.
Today was no exception. On their way back from a house call in the Yigu Tribe, Jian Mo pulled Wu Jiong along, planning to swim at the White Sand Shoal before heading home. It was still early; they could play outside a bit longer.

When they arrived, Jian Mo tossed his outer clothes aside, kicked off his shoes, and plunged into the lake. “Ahhh, that’s the stuff!”

Wu Jiong followed. “Slow down.”

“It’s fine,” Jian Mo stroked out into the water. “I’m just doing loops—won’t go far.”

After a while, Jian Mo dove, planning to prank Wu Jiong with an underwater grab.
But Wu Jiong had predicted his prediction and slipped under too, grinning at him through the water.

Jian Mo had just reached out when Wu Jiong caught both his arms, keeping him from any mischief. Jian Mo arched a brow, ready to launch a sneak attack—when a furious shout rolled over the surface: “What do you think you’re doing?! Get out of there—now!”

Both of them were startled. The White Sand Shoal was shared by their tribe and the Yigu Tribe; coming here for a swim wasn’t a big deal. No one should be shooing them off—especially since they’d just treated patients in Yigu today.

Hand in hand, they surfaced to see what was going on.
That’s when they noticed something off about the man on shore—his looks, his clothes, everything about him felt unfamiliar.

A bad hunch pricked at Jian Mo. He exchanged a glance with Wu Jiong and saw the same doubt in his eyes. They were hesitating when the man barked again: “Out! No unauthorized swimming here! If you don’t get out, I’ll fine you!”

His accent sounded odd too—awkward, not local.

Something wasn’t right.

Jian Mo, uneasy, led Wu Jiong ashore—only to find that everything they’d left on the bank was gone: clothes, shoes, back-baskets… all of it, vanished.

From shore they could see the opposite bank—where rows of stone houses had somehow sprung up, neat and handsome.

Those couldn’t have been built while they were in the water.
No one could work that fast.

Staring at the houses, an absurd guess rose in Jian Mo’s mind—they had crossed over.

This wasn’t his first time. He was, in a way, familiar with the feeling.

He immediately gripped Wu Jiong’s hand.
Wu Jiong had sensed it too. He squeezed back, interlacing their fingers.

The man on shore eyed them suspiciously.

“Let’s get out of sight first,” Wu Jiong murmured.

Still hand in hand, they slipped into the trees.
The man across the way finally stopped watching them.

When Jian Mo saw the man look away, he exhaled.

Wu Jiong studied their surroundings and asked, “Was it like this when you first came to our tribe?”

Jian Mo blinked at him, surprised, then nodded.

Wu Jiong’s hand tightened; he pulled Jian Mo into a hug. “That must have been hard.”

“It was okay. I met you right away—that kept things from being too bad.”

They talked a bit beneath the trees—both of them in nothing but their underlayers.

Jian Mo looked around. “So what now? Wait a while and try the lake again to see if we can go back? Or… explore this world?”

The White Sand Shoal looked like the same White Sand Shoal; the surrounding woods hadn’t changed either. Jian Mo’s gut said they were still in the beastmen’s world, not back on Earth.

“Let’s check whether the road in the lake is there,” Wu Jiong said. “If it is, we go back. If not, we have a look around and think of a plan.”

“Deal,” Jian Mo said at once. “Come on—let’s hurry.”

With Wu Jiong’s skill, getting Jian Mo back into the lake was so quick no one could have stopped them.

Before the man on the opposite bank spotted them again, they’d already dived.

The water was as clear as ever, the depths as dark and bottomless—exactly as before.
But after minutes underwater, when they surfaced again, the unfamiliar houses were still there, and so was the frowning stranger.

They climbed out on a different shore and slipped into the woods.

“Looks like we can’t go back yet,” Jian Mo said.

“Let’s eat first, then think,” said Wu Jiong.

Their belongings were gone, but the forest was as generous as always. It didn’t take long to find plenty to eat—berries, wild greens. Once full, they bundled two sheaves of tender greens to carry—if they met people, maybe they could trade for supplies.

“What a peculiar experience,” Jian Mo murmured, eyes wide at the world around them.

If he’d crossed alone, he might have panicked. With Wu Jiong, it wasn’t so scary.
If they couldn’t return today, Qing Kuo and the others would watch the house. If they could never return—Jian Mo’s heart dipped—he squeezed Wu Jiong’s hand.

Surely it wouldn’t come to that. If the passage didn’t open, they could camp by the lake and wait.

They walked on and soon found a road.

More pedestrians appeared. Noticing the way they were dressed and the greens in their hands, people gave them odd looks.

Jian Mo and Wu Jiong kept studying the buildings and passersby.
The architecture leaned stone—one, two, even three stories high. There were streetlights; the main road was neatly paved with clean cement. Quite developed, really.

But there were no vehicles—no carts, no cars. Instead, many people were in beast form; sometimes, huge beasts carried riders on their backs—like giant-beast buses.

Before long someone called out to them, “Brothers, what happened to you two?”

Jian Mo turned to the man leaning in a doorway and smiled. “We went for a swim and got swept—lost our clothes and shoes.”

“No wonder,” the man said. “I was wondering what happened to you.”

“Yeah. Want some greens? We foraged them in the woods. If you want them, we’ll trade—so we can swap for clothes and shoes. Otherwise, walking around like this is a bit… odd.”

The man grinned. “Sure. Come eat at my place first—I’ll find you some clothes and shoes.”

He introduced himself as Hu Zhen. He often went fishing; once he’d fallen in and had everything washed away—quite the mess.

Glancing back at Jian Mo and Wu Jiong, he added, “But I wasn’t as bad off as you. I just lost my shoes and rod, tore my clothes a bit—still wore most of it back.”

Jian Mo gave a wry smile. “We’re the unlucky ones, then.”

Hu Zhen laughed. “Soon as I saw you, I thought—fishermen. Looking that bedraggled yet refusing to go home empty-handed, still clutching something—that’s a fisherman’s stubbornness.”

Jian Mo let the pleasant misunderstanding stand. “Something like that.”

Fellow hobbyists bonded fast. Hu Zhen’s tongue loosened; he brought them inside and found clean clothes and shoes. “Jian Mo, you can wear mine. Wu Jiong, take my beastman big brother’s—he’s taller, broader—you should fit.”

“Thanks,” Wu Jiong said.

“Don’t mention it,” Hu Zhen replied. “Nobody wants to run into mishaps.”

He even told them to bathe.
Jian Mo had lived in a civilized world before; water heaters weren’t new to him. Though these were different from Earth’s, he figured them out quickly.

Cleaned up, they joined Hu Zhen for a meal in his living room. Seeing them transformed, Hu Zhen whistled. “You two are downright good-looking.”

Jian Mo rolled up his sleeves. “Thanks.”

“Come eat,” Hu Zhen said. “Didn’t have time to shop, just home cooking—don’t mind it.”

“How could we?” Jian Mo said.

“Not locals, are you?” Hu Zhen asked. “Your accents sound different. Where from—traveling, on business?”

“From the north,” Jian Mo parried. “Didn’t expect today’s mess.”

“Life’s full of surprises,” Hu Zhen chuckled. “Here, try this—can you handle spice? Our chili paste is handed down from ancient times—Doctor Jian Mo’s own recipe, not the fake stuff.”

Hearing his own name, Jian Mo traded a startled look with Wu Jiong.

Hu Zhen didn’t notice. “Have you been to the town museum yet?”

“Not yet,” Jian Mo said, “but it’s one of the reasons we came.”

“I figured,” Hu Zhen said. “We’ve got plenty worth seeing, but the museum’s a must.”

Jian Mo smiled. “Any recommendations—museum or nearby sights?”

“Depends how much time you’ve got,” Hu Zhen said. “If you’re short, hit the museum and the Ancient Riverside Settlement. If you’ve got more, visit the Doctor Jian Mo Memorial and a few nearby ancient settlements. You can also take a sky-ride on a flying Qiu for an aerial view.”

He brightened again. “Our food scene is famous, but don’t go to the overly hyped Jian Mo Dining House. Head to the little eatery at the end of T-shaped Alley—the owner’s from the old Riverside Tribe. His dishes are the most authentic.”

Warm and talkative, Hu Zhen kept rattling off local tips.
Jian Mo and Wu Jiong listened closely, then thanked him after dinner, left the wild greens as a trade, and took their leave. Hu Zhen invited them to visit again.

They thanked him once more.

Outside, night had fallen. Streetlights lit up like stars scattered along the ground.
Wu Jiong gazed at them, curiosity in his eyes.

“We had streetlights like this in my other world,” Jian Mo said, “but we had far more machines. I don’t see many here.”

“Maybe folks here are used to doing things in beast form,” Wu Jiong said.

Jian Mo laughed. “I’ve noticed. It feels like biology is the more advanced technology here. Where to tonight?”

“People are out strolling,” Wu Jiong said. “Let’s walk too, then decide.”

Jian Mo looked around. “Let’s head toward the museum. There’s a park over there—should be plenty of people. Maybe we can pick up more information.”

Wu Jiong squeezed his hand. “Let’s go.”

Chapter 203: Extra Three – Little Fat Zhu and the Little Red Panda

In the past few years, several little cubs had been born in the Riverside Tribe. Ban Zhu and Bai Lu had grown into big cubs, while Jiang Xing and Hefeng had become teenagers and were no longer very interested in playing with the newly born cubs.

These older cubs preferred going on adventures with classmates who came to the tribe for lessons—hunting and gathering brought a sense of achievement far beyond just running around the tribe.

The newly born cubs included little foxes, little wolves, little cats, and little lions, all with very good temperaments.

Once they grew a little, they would start playing in the tribe, accompanied by Zhu Zhu. With so many little cubs in the tribe, each one was a playmate for Zhu Zhu.

From the time they were very young, Zhu Zhu had played with them; when they grew into teenagers, Zhu Zhu would carry them on his back for hunting and gathering.

Zhu Zhu was not only Jian Mo and Wu Jiong’s pet, but also an indispensable part of the tribe, the most familiar companion in every cub’s memory.

One day, Jian Mo and Wu Jiong had just returned from gathering when the cubs across the river spotted them and called out in their small, childish voices: “Jian Mo-gege! Chief! Guests are at your house—”

Jian Mo, riding on a giant wolf, asked, “Who’s there?”

The cubs shouted: “It’s Chief Zuo Zhi from Bai Zhi Tribe and Chief Qi Ming from Yu Qi Tribe with their cubs—plus Brother Ji Xun and Brother Mo A with their cubs—”

All old friends. Jian Mo smiled: “Where are they now? At our house?”

Before the cubs could answer, a voice came from afar: “We’re here.”

The two families were waiting on the open ground.

Zuo Zhi and Ji Xun’s cubs had been born and were now almost half a year old, ready to be brought out to play.

Zuo Zhi’s cub took after him in beast form—a small sub-beast humanoid, still unable to transform, so it was a little fat Zhu.

Ji Xun’s cub followed Mo A, a little red panda, also unable to transform yet.

At this moment, the two cubs were each lying in their father’s arms, staring curiously at Jian Mo with round eyes.

The little fat Zhu even put its tiny paws in its mouth, sucking on them as it looked at Jian Mo: “Jian Mo-gege?”

Jian Mo laughed: “Oh, so you can talk and recognize people now?”

Qi Ming gently held the little fat Zhu’s paw to stop it from sucking: “Of course! Our little Di Qiu is very smart.”

Ji Xun said, “Our little Ming Yin is smart too. Ming Yin, can you call out?”

The little red panda hid in its father’s arms and in a soft voice called: “Jian Mo-gege, Chief Wu Jiong.”

Jian Mo couldn’t resist and went over to pick up the little red panda, rubbing the chubby, soft little creature, smiling: “No need to call him Chief Wu Jiong, call him Brother Wu Jiong.”

Before the little red panda could speak again, the clever little fat Zhu shouted in a crisp voice: “Brother Wu Jiong!”

Wu Jiong, already back in human form, came over and opened his arms. Zuo Zhi placed the little fat Zhu in Wu Jiong’s arms.

Wu Jiong held the little fat Zhu’s bottom with one hand, lifting him upright, gently patting his back with practiced ease.

Jian Mo smiled at Wu Jiong—he had been holding a lot of Riverside Tribe cubs lately and had clearly gotten good at it.

Jian Mo led the guests into the house: “Has everything been going smoothly for you lately?”

Qi Ming replied: “Very smooth. The vegetables we planted have grown another batch, and we also managed to grow that thing you mentioned—the watermelon, though they’re small, only about fist-sized. The flesh is very sweet. I brought a few for you.”

Jian Mo’s eyes lit up: “Really? That’s wonderful!”

Watermelon was basically a summer essential. Since arriving in this world, Jian Mo had never eaten watermelon or anything similar.

He had mentioned it to Qi Ming in conversation, and Qi Ming had asked the merchants to keep an eye out. After several years, the merchants had brought back a fist-sized fruit from some unknown tribe—juicy, somewhat like a mix of cantaloupe and watermelon, and quite tasty.

Unfortunately, this fruit didn’t grow well in the Riverside Tribe’s climate. Jian Mo had tried planting a couple of crops, but they never thrived.

Back at home, Qi Ming and Mo A presented the gifts, and Jian Mo eagerly cut the fruit.

The melons grown by the Yu Qi Tribe were fragrant, sweet, and refreshingly cool—very satisfying to eat.

Jian Mo, eating the fruit, said: “It’s so good to have you all! It feels like life has been saved.”

Qi Ming laughed: “You’re exaggerating a bit.”

Jian Mo replied: “Really! I love all kinds of fruits. Unfortunately, we have so few here—only some berries.”

Qi Ming: “Once our second batch of melons grows this year, we’ll have Wan Zheng deliver some to you.”

Jian Mo smiled: “Let’s trade a little. We’ve made a lot of cheese recently—how about exchanging it for melons?”

Qi Ming: “Sounds good.”

Besides chatting with Jian Mo, the visitors also had him check the little fat Zhu and the little red panda.

Both cubs had been delivered by Jian Mo and were being raised well, though fathers naturally worried and wanted to pay extra attention.

While they chatted indoors, Zhu Zhu and Ying Ao soon returned.

Seeing Zhu Zhu outside, the little fat Zhu couldn’t help but shout: “Zhu Zhu—”

Zhu Zhu clearly remembered the little fat Zhu, poked its head out, and responded: “Chiu.”

The little fat Zhu turned its sparkling eyes to Jian Mo: “Jian Mo-gege, can we go play with Zhu Zhu?”

Jian Mo said: “Then I need to find a few playmates for you. Zhu Zhu, go call Ying Jian and the others, ask them to take Di Qiu and Ming Yin out to play.”

Zhu Zhu called twice outside to acknowledge, then flapped off to gather the cubs.

Ying Jian was a little lion, already acting as a leader among the cubs despite being young—calm and reliable.

Having Ying Jian lead the cubs gave Jian Mo peace of mind.

Zuo Zhi and Ji Xun were familiar with the Riverside Tribe and trusted Zhu Zhu. Moreover, the tribe always had patrolling beastmen. With patrollers watching, nothing would go wrong.

Seeing Zhu Zhu gather cubs to play with the little fat Zhu and little red panda, the four fathers agreed but reminded them not to be naughty or do anything dangerous.

The little fat Zhu sweetly said: “Dad, don’t worry, Zhu Zhu’s watching us.”

Zhu Zhu puffed up its chest: “Chiu!”

Little fat Zhu: “Then we’re going out to play!”

Stretching its wings and holding the little red panda’s paw, the two cubs bounced off to meet Ying Jian and the others.

Even as they ran far away, Jian Mo and the others could still hear them.

The little ones’ high-pitched laughter carried over a long distance, so they kept track from inside.

Ji Xun sighed: “We should have brought our cubs here to play with your tribe’s cubs more often. Ming Yin has become more lively.”

Jian Mo: “Now Ming Yin mostly plays with cubs from Lin Yan Tribe?”

Ji Xun: “Yes, but the Lin Yan cubs speak slowly, and Ming Yin isn’t very quick either. I worried he’d get slowed down, so he’s been interacting with them less recently.”

Mo A added: “Our cubs are like this. They’ll improve when they grow a little.”

Jian Mo agreed: “Every cub has its own personality; it’s not easy to change. You’ve already kept him away from the Lin Yan cubs, so don’t worry.”

Ji Xun sighed: “As fathers, it’s hard not to worry. We wanted Ming Yin to come learn at your tribe, but you said you don’t take such young cubs.”

Jian Mo smiled: “That really won’t work. Our lessons cover so much, plus reading and writing—Ming Yin couldn’t even hold a pen. Also, cubs love playing; forcing lessons on them would be cruel.”

Ji Xun rubbed his brow: “You’re right.”

Jian Mo: “If you worry, just bring him over to play with the cubs, join Ying Jian and friends. Playing longer will make him lively, maybe even mischievous enough to give you trouble.”

Qi Ming: “If you put it that way, we’d like to send Di Qiu over to play too.”

Jian Mo smiled: “Sure! Bring Di Qiu over a few times. Since your tribes trade often, you can bring him along when doing business. I think Di Qiu isn’t shy at all—he’s a bit of a leader among cubs.”

Zuo Zhi nodded: “Indeed, he’s a bit bossy, even flapping his wings when angry.”

Jian Mo imagined little fat Zhu flapping and laughed: “I like that personality. Being rebellious is better than not.”

While the adults chatted indoors over tea, the cubs played with Zhu Zhu on the open ground.

Zhu Zhu’s mind was like that of a six- or seven-year-old cub and had always stayed that way.

Unlike Ying Ao or other growing cubs, Zhu Zhu genuinely enjoyed playing with the cubs and always played wholeheartedly.

From Zhu Zhu’s perspective, it wasn’t Jian Mo sending it to play—it was Jian Mo gathering a bunch of cubs to play with it. When one batch grew up, Jian Mo and Wu Jiong would bring another batch.

Zhu Zhu couldn’t express complex thoughts, but it felt truly happy—playing with friends every day was enough.

When Zhu Zhu got distracted, Ying Jian shouted ahead in a small voice: “Zhu Zhu, focus! The sandbag’s coming for you!”

Zhu Zhu immediately perked its thick ears, eyes sharp: “Chiu!”

Ying Jian raised his paw again: “I’m throwing—watch out—”

The cubs all ran: “Aao—”

This sandbag game had also been taught by Jian Mo. On the ground, Zhu Zhu’s size was a slight disadvantage, but flying compensated.

Playing this game with the cubs, everyone was fairly evenly matched. As long as Zhu Zhu focused, it wasn’t easy to lose.

Zhu Zhu energized itself and ran, soon panting.

Little fat Zhu and the little red panda followed, also panting, tongues sticking out: “Huff huff—”

Just as they got tired, Jian Mo called out: “Zhu Zhu, are you done playing? Come back for the jelly!”

Hearing this, Zhu Zhu perked its ears and called out: “Chiu—”

Not only responding to Jian Mo, it also called the cubs to come back for sweet, cool jelly.

Zhu Zhu led the cubs home to enjoy the treat.

—Another perfect day, Zhu Zhu thought proudly, chest puffed out.

Chapter 202 (Extra 2): Qiuqiu, Proposal Ambassador for Ban Ming

The Riverside Tribe had recently taken in three young winged-beasts, all just weaned.
They weren’t big—about the size of a large Alaskan Malamute.
Their eyes were round and shiny, their bodies still padded with baby fat, and their fine down was long and soft—utterly adorable.
Best of all, Ying’ao had been training them; thanks to solid socialization, the three little ones were very well-behaved, mild-tempered, and safe for everyone in the tribe to pet.

That morning, the trio fluttered straight to Jian Mo’s place to wait for Ying’ao to return and take them flying.
Ying’ao had gone outside the tribe to forage, while Qiuqiu was out in the clearing playing with the tribe’s kids.

The three little fluffballs squatted by Ying’ao’s nest like plush toys, sitting nicely as they waited for him.

Jian Mo finished making breakfast and carried food over to Qiuqiu and Ying’ao’s den to feed them.
As he arrived, he first spotted the three little ones.

All three popped their eyes wide; recognizing Jian Mo, they chirped in unison—“Qiu!”—with such perfect timing you’d think they’d been specially drilled.

They were too cute. Jian Mo couldn’t help rubbing their heads.
The one he petted nudged his hand with its forehead.

Feeling the soft fur and baby-fat beneath, Jian Mo scratched the little one’s chin with a finger. “Why are you three so adorable?”

The youngster stared up at him with round, guileless eyes.
It felt less like a winged-beast and more like a puppy—a soft, squishy little pup—so Jian Mo scooped one up and kneaded it in his arms.

The other two immediately came over to nuzzle him, insisting on equal cuddles. “Qiu qiu!”

Jian Mo dutifully scritched the other two as well, set the food down, and played with them.
They weren’t shy at all, batting at him with soft little paws.

Playing along, Jian Mo absentmindedly lifted one and planted a smacking kiss on its forehead.

He hadn’t even straightened when a sharp “Jie!” cut the air.

He looked over—at some point, Qiuqiu had returned. It was standing upright on its hind legs, wings spread, eyes round with disbelief as it watched Jian Mo kiss the little one.

Meeting Jian Mo’s gaze, Qiuqiu called again: “Jie?!”
As if to say: How dare you kiss another winged-beast?

Before Jian Mo could explain, Qiuqiu spun around and presented him with its backside.

…He was doomed. Caught smooching someone else’s winged-beast.

Jian Mo’s heart sank. Keeping his face neutral, he tried to bluff, greeting Qiuqiu: “Back already? We were just fooling around—”

Qiuqiu ignored him.

Jian Mo went over to coax it; Qiuqiu answered by steadfastly pointing its rear at him.

After a few more attempts, Qiuqiu flapped off, leaving only its retreating back.

Facing the three clear-eyed baby winged-beasts, Jian Mo felt like crying. He’d lost the mood to play; he poured the food into Qiuqiu and Ying’ao’s bowls, set the lids, told the youngsters to wait there, and left.

Elsewhere, Qiuqiu swooped into the knot of kids, cheeks puffed and clearly fuming.

Little Ban Qiu patted Qiuqiu’s belly. “Qiuqiu, what’s wrong?”

“Jie!”

Jiang Xing peered closely. “Qiuqiu’s mad. No injuries, though. Who ticked it off?”

He Feng: “It flew out from home—maybe Ying’ao upset it.”

Bai Lu said softly, “Ying’ao left the tribe early this morning and isn’t back yet. It can’t be him.”

Ban Qiu: “Then who? Don’t be mad, Qiuqiu. We’ll find you snacks.”

Bai Lu: “Maybe Brother Jian Mo. Qiuqiu usually doesn’t get mad at others—only cares about him.”

Since it involved Jian Mo, the kids couldn’t go confront anyone; they could only comfort Qiuqiu and pull it off to play.

When Wu Jiong came back, he noticed something was off. “What did you do to rile Qiuqiu?”

Jian Mo: “I… kissed another winged-beast in front of it. And now it’s like this. I set out food—won’t eat. Called it out to play—won’t move.”

Wu Jiong chuckled. “This morning? Then coax it again when it comes back. It might cool off by then.”

Jian Mo muttered, “Doubtful. Qiuqiu isn’t the compromising type.”

Wu Jiong: “So you won’t coax it?”

Jian Mo sighed. “Still have to. No choice.”

Feeling guilty, Jian Mo stayed home that afternoon and cooked a spread of treats, planning to appease Qiuqiu when it returned.

By dusk, Qiuqiu and Ying’ao were back. Jian Mo carried over freshly baked mini cakes to make amends.

Qiuqiu was lounging contentedly in its nest. Seeing Jian Mo approach, it twisted its big head away and refused to look at him.

“Still mad?” Jian Mo set down the cakes. “I was wrong. I won’t play like that with other Qius again.”

Qiuqiu kept its butt toward him, round ears flattened—airplane ears—broadcasting its refusal to communicate.

Jian Mo coaxed patiently for a long while; Qiuqiu didn’t budge.

Parched, out of ideas, Jian Mo pleaded with the bystanding Ying’ao: “Help me plead my case?”

Ying’ao looked at Jian Mo, then at Qiuqiu, and ventured a “Qiu?”

That single sound set Qiuqiu off—as if betrayed. It bared its teeth at Ying’ao: “Jie jie jie!”

Startled, Ying’ao tucked its paws to its chest, its round ears slicked back into airplane mode. “Qiu?”

Qiuqiu stretched its growl into a warning: “Jie—”

Ying’ao sidled away, deciding not to meddle in Jian Mo and Qiuqiu’s spat.

Jian Mo sighed, shifted, and sat shoulder to shoulder with Qiuqiu. “I really was wrong. Qiuqiu is the cutest. I only have you two Qius. I won’t spare a glance for any other Qiu.”

Qiuqiu turned its head slightly, snorting a tiny, aggrieved sound.

Jian Mo bumped it gently with his shoulder. “Truly. Since it’s my first offense, forgive me? I won’t ever do it again.”

After a long while of left-and-right coaxing, Qiuqiu finally softened—mostly.
It still wouldn’t let Jian Mo touch it, though; every time he reached out, it pinned his hand with a paw. Denied.

Jian Mo could only keep soothing it.

Watching their back-and-forth, Wu Jiong was all smiles. “You won’t dare next time, huh?”

Jian Mo: “Forget daring—I won’t even think about it.”

He sighed. “It’s on me. Qiuqiu’s love is passionate and pure. I hurt its feelings.”

Wu Jiong slung an arm over his shoulder. “Keep cooking its favorites for a couple days, and take them out to play.”

Jian Mo thought it over. That could work. “Where to?”

Wu Jiong: “Lakeshore, snowy peaks, alpine meadows… or even other tribes.”

Jian Mo: “I’ll make an itinerary.”

Besides making up with Qiuqiu, they could seize the chance for a little trip. The tribe was quiet lately and the weather gorgeous—what a waste to stay cooped up.

Before Jian Mo finished planning, he saw Ban Ming come by Qiuqiu’s nest, muttering to it for ages.
It looked… suspicious.

Puzzled, Jian Mo called out, “Ban Ming, what are you doing? Why so sneaky?”

Ban Ming understood “sneaky” and bristled. “How am I sneaky? I’m discussing serious business with Qiuqiu!”

“Serious business” sounded ridiculous next to “Qiuqiu,” which only made Jian Mo grin wider. “What serious business?”

Ban Ming hesitated. “I’ll tell you, but keep it secret.”

Jian Mo nodded solemnly. “Of course. At most I’ll tell Wu Jiong—not a word to anyone else.”

Ban Ming blurted, “No—don’t tell the chief either.”

Jian Mo: “All right, all right. Out with it—stop hemming and hawing.”

Ban Ming took a deep breath. “I want Qiuqiu to help deliver a token of commitment to A Meng. I’m going to ask him to be my mate.”

That made Jian Mo start. He looked Ban Ming over.

In the past two years, Ban Ming had matured a lot—youthful edges rounded into a tall, handsome young man, features especially striking.
Someone like that wanting to propose to his beloved wasn’t surprising.

Jian Mo considered. “It’s wonderful if you two become mates—but have you asked his opinion? Is he inclined to accept? If you’re not sure, it’s best not to do it in public.”

Ban Ming flushed. “We’ve talked about it before—A Meng agreed. I want to do it properly once more. Since we both love Qiuqiu, I want Qiuqiu to deliver the token.”

Jian Mo was curious. “How, exactly?”

Ban Ming wouldn’t say. “You’ll see.”

Jian Mo thought again. “If you become mates, where will you live?”

Ban Ming: “Wherever A Meng prefers—either our tribe or I’ll move to Xiongying. I’ve discussed it with my family; they’re fine with it. If we stay here, everyone will help gather building materials.”

Jian Mo waved, smiling. “All right. Go train with Qiuqiu.”

With permission granted, Ban Ming happily ran off with Qiuqiu.

He also asked Jian Mo to invite A Meng to Riverside. “He knows my every move. If I call him, he’ll guess right away—no surprise.”

Jian Mo laughed. “Romantic, huh? If I help bring him over, can I watch?”

Ban Ming agreed readily. “Sure. A Hu and the others will come cheer me on too.”

Jian Mo: “Deal.”

A Meng was Jian Mo’s student; he visited periodically to report progress and ask questions. It happened to be about time.

Jian Mo sent word, and A Meng arrived with a stack of problems.

Jian Mo listened to the report, then answered everything in detail.

When they finished, Jian Mo glanced out the clinic window and saw Ban Ming and the others in position. Smiling, he said to A Meng, “Let’s call it a day?”

A Meng nodded, packing up. “Thank you, teacher. I learned a lot.”

Jian Mo smiled. “You’re welcome. Come on, let’s step outside.”

The moment they exited the clinic, there was Ban Ming waiting.

A Meng assumed Ban Ming had heard he was around and came to fetch him; he wasn’t surprised. He murmured a greeting to Jian Mo, smiling, and strode over.

Just then there was a steady thrum of wings overhead.

A Meng looked up instinctively. Qiuqiu was arrowing straight toward them, the wind from its wings ruffling his hair.

He put a hand on his head. Ban Ming reached his side just as Qiuqiu cleared their heads, loosened its claws, and dropped a wooden box.

Ban Ming caught it cleanly and sank to one knee. “A Meng.”

A Meng instantly guessed what was happening and stared, wide-eyed.

Ban Ming opened the box. His eyes were bright. “I love you. Will you be my mate?”

A Meng’s eyes went a little red; he seized Ban Ming’s hand. “I will.”

Ban Ming grinned and took out the contents.

Jian Mo craned his neck—inside was a pair of earrings: hoop-style latch-back studs of dusky blue metal, inlaid with glittering glass shards.

Ban Ming removed one and fastened it to A Meng’s ear.

With a soft click, it locked in place.

A Meng took the other and latched it to Ban Ming’s earlobe, locking it tight.

Since beastmen frequently shift forms, rings aren’t popular—proposals are done with earrings.
Even when they transform, these latch-backs hold snugly on their beast ears without tugging skin—and without getting lost.

With the clasp shut, Ban Ming’s proposal was officially a success.

Behind Jian Mo, Ban Ming’s friends burst into applause, cheers, and whistles. Jian Mo clapped, smiling.

At some point Wu Jiong had arrived; he stood behind Jian Mo, wrapped an arm around his shoulders, and pulled him into a hug.

In the center, Ban Ming and A Meng were hugging tightly, eyes reddened, faces alight.

Jian Mo turned and kissed Wu Jiong’s cheek, whispering, “So happy!”

Wu Jiong kissed him back. “May they be like us—happily mated.”

Jian Mo laughed. “Sneaking a blessing for ourselves too, huh?”

Wu Jiong: “Absolutely.”

As they spoke, Qiuqiu—mission accomplished—flew back and nestled close against Jian Mo.

Jian Mo rubbed its back. “Qiuqiu, you were amazing today!”

Now reconciled with Jian Mo, Qiuqiu didn’t mind the scritches. “Qiu.”

Smiling, Jian Mo suddenly rose on tiptoe and kissed Qiuqiu’s forehead.
Seeing this, Wu Jiong came over and kissed the other side.

Qiuqiu’s eyes lit up; it lifted its short paw to pat its head, cooing softly, “Qiu!”

Ying’ao glided in at some point; Jian Mo waved it over, and he and Wu Jiong each planted a kiss on Ying’ao as well.

The four of them—two people and two Qius—stood there together, watching Ban Ming and A Meng, smiles on every face and every beak.

Around them, the cheering continued. Ban Ming and A Meng clung to each other, eyes rimmed red but grinning wide.