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When morning finally arrived, the rain had lessened to a gentle drizzle. By mid-morning, the storm had fully passed and the rain had stopped. Although the previous day's storm had left the ground muddy, the cabin's interior remained dry and welcoming. The air was crisp, and the scent of wet earth filled the cabin as the workers began to stir.
The morning after the storm, the workers and escorts gathered to assess any damage. They surveyed the areas surrounding the cabin, clearing fallen branches and hazardous debris that littered the courtyard. "Make sure the place is clear and safe for everyone," Master Zhao Baiyi directed.
Meanwhile, the other team members also checked the shed where important materials, tools, and harvested wood were stored. Fortunately, everything remained intact and dry. "Our supplies are safe. We were well-prepared," Zhao Tao noted, as he and Wu Chen inspected the inventory.
At the river dock, Escort Chun, Master Jiang, and Xiao Bai found the captain and boatmen safe in their small quarters beside the barn-like structure. They also inspected the boat left at the dock during the storm. "The boat's mostly fine, just a bit of a mess on deck," the captain reported after a thorough check.
In the meantime, Wu Meifen, along with Helper Jing and Physician Chu, started by checking Ling Kai's ancestral home. Despite some mess from wind-blown leaves, the sturdy structure had withstood the storm well. "The ancestral home is fine, just needs a little tidying up," Wu Meifen observed, relieved.
Cook Gu, along with the other escorts, inspected the small shallow brooks and the hidden bathhouse located across from them. Despite some minor disturbances, the area showed no significant damage. "It's clear and clean again," Escort Zhu remarked, pointing at the calm water current.
With the immediate surroundings secured and cleaned, Wu Meifen and the group convened for a short meeting. "You should cross the river tomorrow to check the harvesting site," Wu Meifen suggested. "It's safer to wait and ensure the weather remains stable."
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They had been at the hunter's cabin for four days. During the storm, they stayed inside. Yesterday, after completing the post-storm survey and cleanup, the woodcutters began the initial processing and woodworking of the timber they had already harvested.
Today, under clear skies, the Dragon's Edge woodcutters decided to return to the harvesting area. They divided the team for different tasks: some workers and escorts stayed behind to set up the tools and equipment, while others prepared for the trip to the harvesting site.
Master Wu, Master Zhao, Zhao Tao, Xiao Lin, Xiao Han, Xiao Feng, Escort Chun, Escort Zhu, and Escort Hua were the team heading to the harvesting area. Meanwhile, Master Jiang, Xiao Bai, Escort Bao and Escort Wu stayed behind to set up the tools and equipment. The rest of the group, including Cook Gu, Helper Jing, Wu Meifen, and Physician Chu Feichen, attended to their respective tasks.
Cook Gu had woken up early to prepare packed lunches, drinkable water, and snacks for the departing team and Wu Meifen. "Make sure everyone stays hydrated," Cook Gu instructed as he handed over the supplies. He then proceeded to clean the back courtyard, butcher area, outhouse, and bathhouse before starting to prepare for the upcoming meals again.
As the team going to the harvesting area prepared to leave, Wu Chen gave final instructions. "Stay alert and work safely," he said. "Yes, Master Wu," the apprentices replied in unison before setting off.
Escort Bao Hong, after surveying the surrounding areas and perimeters, helped chop firewood. "We'll need plenty of this if the weather turns again," Cook Gu commented, while Bao Hong swung his axe with precision.
Chief Helper Jing accompanied Wu Meifen back to the ancestral home for her second day of the 100-hour vigil, during which she would spend twelve hours praying. "I'll be fine, Chief Jing. Go on and take care of things at the cabin," Wu Meifen reassured her.
Upon returning, Helper Jing started cleaning the cabin's interior, including the gathering hall and each sleeping quarter, and washed the group's dirty clothes by the stream. "Thank you for your help, Zhouzhou," Jing Xiu said as Escort Wu Yunzhou assisted her with hanging the washed clothes.
Escort Wu Yunzhou, besides helping with the cleanup, also assisted Chief Helper Jing Xiu in each room.
While this was happening, Physician Chu Feichen inventoried his medicines and supplies in the healers' room. "We should be prepared for any injuries that come our way," he murmured to himself as he concocted herbs for cold and other fever remedies over a low furnace in the kitchen.
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"Let's check the site for any damage," Wu Chen said as they disembarked the boat, determination etched on his face. The team nodded in agreement, understanding the importance of ensuring the safety and functionality of their harvesting site.
Upon arriving, the group was greeted by a scene of both resilience and destruction. Fallen branches and debris littered the area, while some of the tools and equipment left behind bore the marks of the recent storm. A few saws and axes were covered in mud, their handles slick and dirty. The "Do's and Don'ts" scroll, which normally hung on a tree near the entrance, had been thrown far by the strong wind and now lay crumpled and soggy near a puddle.
Master Wu Chen picked up the scroll, shaking his head. "We'll need to rewrite this," he said, handing it to one of the apprentices.
As they moved deeper into the site, they discovered an old tree that had been struck by lightning. Its trunk was charred black, and it stood out starkly against the muddy greenery. Luckily, it hadn't caused a fire, but the tree was a stark reminder of nature's power. The sight of the burned tree caused a murmur among the woodcutters.
"We must perform the ritual," Master Zhao Baiyi said solemnly. "It's an old tradition. Whenever a tree is struck by lightning, we must offer a prayer to the forest spirits to warrant safety and harmony."
The group gathered around the tree, bowing their heads in respect. Master Zhao led them in a prayer, chanting softly. "Spirits of the forest, we honor this tree that has faced the wrath of the storm. Grant us your protection and allow us to continue our work in peace." The ritual was a blend of superstition and tradition, reflecting their deep connection to the land and their respect for nature.
After the prayer, they resumed their inspection. Despite the fallen branches and scattered debris, the overall damage was minimal. The stream near the site was muddy, with stronger currents, but posed no immediate threat. "We'll need to be cautious, but we can manage," Zhao Baiyi advised, watching the water flow with a critical eye.
With the survey complete, the team began their cleanup. Fallen branches were gathered and moved aside, tools were cleaned and inspected, and the site slowly returned to its organized state.
They spent the morning checking the harvesting site and cleaning up. "It's good to be back at work," Xiao Han said, echoing the sentiment of many.
Master Zhao took the opportunity to continue his lessons with the apprentices, pointing out various trees and their characteristics. "This tree here is a type of cedar," he explained, touching the bark gently. "It's known for its lightweight and resistance to decay, making it perfect for smaller boats and structures."
When noon arrived, the workers gathered by the stream for lunch. The serene surroundings provided a peaceful break from their laborious work. Armed with clean water, packed lunches, and snacks, the whole group ate together, enjoying the respite.
"Let's have a quick meal and then get back to it. We need to make the most of our time here," Wu Chen announced, his tone firm but encouraging.
The workers enjoyed a simple but fulfilling lunch, re-energizing for the afternoon ahead. The synchronization among the team was palpable, each member contributing to the collective effort with dedication and skill.
"This food tastes even better out here," Xiao Lin remarked, taking a bite of his steamed bun.
"Everything tastes better when you've worked up an appetite," Zhao Tao replied, grinning.
After lunch, they went back to work with renewed energy. Master Zhao continued his lessons, as he worked, teaching the apprentices techniques for identifying different types of trees, wood, and timbers. "Look at the leaves and the bark," he instructed. "They can tell you a lot about the tree's identity and its uses."
Master Wu called Xiao Feng, who was near him, and pointed out some medicinal herbs and plants growing near the site. "This is wild ginseng," he said, showing the apprentice a plant with small red berries. "It's used in traditional medicine for its healing properties. And this," he pointed to another plant, "is astragalus, which strengthens the immune system."
As the day progressed, the sound of axes and saws filled the air, blending with the natural sounds of the forest. Wu Chen spotted more medicinal herbs and pointed them out to the apprentices, sharing his knowledge of their uses.
While Zhao Tao was waiting for the first batch of cut timbers to be transferred to the boat, he spent time talking with the married couple guarding the road path, Escort Zhu Changli and Escort Hua Meilin, about balancing work and personal life. "It's challenging sometimes, working alongside your spouse, but it can also be rewarding," Hua Meilin said. "You understand each other's struggles better."
Zhao Tao nodded. "Mingyu and I find that balance too. It's comforting to have someone who truly understands your day-to-day challenges."
Escort Zhu Changli added, "The key is communication and mutual respect. Always support each other, both at work and at home."
Xiao Lin, feeling the call of nature, went to a secluded tree near the stream. After relieving himself, he turned to return to the group but stumbled over something on the ground. "Hey! There's someone here!" he shouted, his voice cracking with panic.
"Sounds like a little girl," Xiao Feng joked while trying to hide his nervousness from the previous scary stories.
"Maybe he saw the old woodsman?" Xiao Han joked along, but his smile faded when he saw Xiao Lin's frantic expression.
The others rushed over, jokes fading quickly as they saw Xiao Lin's frantic expression. "What is it?" Wu Chen asked, hurrying to his side.
"There's a person unconscious by the stream. I don't know if they're alive," Xiao Lin panted.