https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-27-Simple-Folkways-and-Bedtime-Stories/13688162/
Chapter 28: Strange Noises
The sudden noise startled Lu Qing, making him freeze for a split second before suspicion crept in.
What was that sound?
A person? An animal? Or just a mouse?
He immediately thought of the mysterious little beast that had stolen two large chunks of fish last night.
Could it be back?
But he’d already stored all the fish inside the house. Was the creature really bold enough to break in?
Recalling the information revealed by his Abilities that morning—specifically, that the beast possessed sharp claws—Lu Qing instinctively gripped the wooden stick resting by his bedside.
In that moment, he deeply missed the electricity of his former life.
Back then, a single flick of the switch would’ve lit up the entire house, and no wild creature would’ve dared come near. But now, he couldn’t even reliably light an oil lamp, let alone scare off any predator with bright light.
The sound outside continued—like something clawing at the door.
Even though Lu Qing was usually fearless, his nerves were on edge.
He tightened his grip on the stick and quietly stepped out of the room into the main hall.
Suddenly, he swung the stick hard against the door, delivering a thunderous crack.
The noise outside vanished instantly.
Lu Qing stood still in the hall, forcing himself to stay calm.
Minutes passed. No sound returned.
But he still didn’t dare open the door to investigate.
After what felt like ages, and only after confirming complete silence outside, did he finally return to his room.
He had to admit—Green Armor Fish Stone’s calming effect was truly remarkable.
Even with that massive bang, Xiao Yan hadn’t stirred.
Otherwise, he’d have had to spend the next hour soothing her again.
That night, Lu Qing barely slept.
Afraid the creature might return, he stayed awake the entire time, only managing a few brief, restless naps as dawn approached.
As a result, when he arrived at Chen Laodaifu’s the next day, he was a mess—dark circles under his eyes, face pale and drained.
The old doctor took one look at him and immediately frowned.
"Lu Qing, I know you’re eager to master the Hundred Herbs Scripture, but studying requires balance. Pushing yourself too hard without rest only leads to diminishing returns."
"And besides, if you ever want to become a true healer, you must take care of your own body. How can you possibly think clearly and treat others if you can’t even look after yourself?"
He assumed Lu Qing’s exhaustion was due to staying up late reading.
"Chen Ye Ye, it’s not what you think," Lu Qing replied with a weary smile. "I didn’t sleep well last night… for another reason."
He then recounted everything that had happened.
"You’re saying a wild creature tried to break into your home last night?" the old doctor exclaimed in surprise.
"Yes. I couldn’t sleep because I was afraid it might come in and hurt Xiao Yan," Lu Qing said, rubbing his eyes.
"Brother, how come Xiao Yan didn’t know about this?" the little girl asked, her eyes widening in shock.
"Because you were snoring like a little pig the whole night," Lu Qing teased, poking her nose playfully.
"But you can’t keep this up. You can’t stay awake every night guarding the house."
After a moment’s thought, Chen Laodaifu turned and went back into his room. Moments later, he returned with a small pouch and handed it to Lu Qing.
"Take this medicine powder."
"Chen Ye Ye, what is this?" Lu Qing asked, holding the pouch.
"It’s a blend I’ve prepared myself—containing herbs known to repel insects and wild animals. I use it when I travel through the mountains."
"From your description, the creature is likely small in size."
"Go back home and sprinkle this around your house. The beast should think twice before coming near again."
Lu Qing’s face lit up.
"Thank you, Chen Ye Ye! This is exactly what I needed!"
The timing couldn’t have been better. Without this, he’d have seriously considered setting a trap to catch the mysterious beast.
Still, the information from his Abilities made him hesitate.
After all, the creature’s paw prints were already of White Light level.
Who knew what kind of strength the real thing possessed?
He tucked the pouch safely away and pulled out the Hundred Herbs Scripture, resuming his lesson.
This time, Chen Laodaifu was even more impressed.
Lu Qing had grasped the material astonishingly fast.
Not only had he memorized everything taught the previous day, but he’d already reviewed the remaining sections thoroughly—understanding them well enough to apply the principles to new situations.
At this pace, it wouldn’t be long before he’d finished the entire book.
"Well done," the old doctor said, stroking his beard with approval. "Clearly, you’ve put in real effort since yesterday."
"Never forgetting your advice, Chen Ye Ye," Lu Qing said respectfully.
"Alright, that’s enough for today. You’re becoming familiar with the text, but knowing a book isn’t enough."
"Whether you’re a healer or a herb gatherer, you must learn to identify and select real herbs."
"I remember there are several common medicinal plants growing near the village. Spend some time observing them—compare them to what’s written in the book. See if the real plants match the descriptions."
Lu Qing nodded. "Yes, I’ll do that."
"Oh, by the way—tomorrow, you and Xiao Yan don’t need to come by. I’m heading into town. I’ll take care of selling the Red Moon Carp for you. Stay home and review."
"Chen Ye Ye, you’re going into town?" Lu Qing’s eyes lit up.
"Yes. The apothecaries in the city have ordered some herbs from me. I’m delivering them."
"Really? Do you need anything for me? After selling the carp, you’ll have a decent amount of money."
"Actually, yes!" Lu Qing said without hesitation.
He really did have something specific he wanted.
"What is it?"
"I’d like to buy a cast-iron pot," Lu Qing said. "You know, after our family’s misfortune, I sold off most of our belongings. Even our only iron pot was gone. I need a new one."
"A cast-iron pot… Not impossible," Chen Laodaifu mused, then nodded. "Any other requests?"
"Salt, too. We’re almost out, and I’d like to restock."
"Anything else?"
"No, that’s all for now," Lu Qing shook his head.
Truthfully, there were many things he wanted—oil, grain, clothes, shoes… but he knew not to push his luck.
Chen Laodaifu was already being kind by offering to help. Asking for too much would be ungrateful and unwise.
If it weren’t for the fact that iron pots and salt were only available in town, he wouldn’t have asked at all.
As for the rest, he could always buy them at the Big Market later.
After leaving Chen Laodaifu’s, Lu Qing immediately went back home and sprinkled the medicine powder around the perimeter of the house.
He thought that would be the end of it—finally able to sleep soundly.
But that night, after Xiao Yan had fallen asleep, he heard it again.
The same sound.
Scratching.
At the door.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter end
Report
