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Outside the hunters' cabin, Jiang Liheng, Xiao Bai, and Xiao Feng were hard at work processing the harvested wood in their makeshift workshop set up in the front courtyard. The space, usually reserved for outdoor tasks, had been quickly adapted into a functional but modest workspace.
The courtyard was bordered by low wooden fences and scattered with patches of grass, the ground uneven and somewhat rough underfoot. The early morning sun bathed the area in a warm glow, casting long shadows that danced across the space. Hunting gear and equipment had been cleared away to make room for their woodworking activities.
In stark contrast to the well-equipped workshop at Dragon's Edge Woodcutters, this temporary setup was basic but functional. At the heart of their workspace was a large, sturdy table, its surface marred with deep cuts and stains from previous use. Around it, a variety of tools were laid out—axes of different sizes, a selection of carving knives with worn handles, and several improvised chisels fashioned from metal scraps. These tools were arranged haphazardly on a rough wooden shelf, which had originally served as a storage for hunting equipment.
Remnants of hunting gear still littered the area: a few bows and arrows leaned against the cabin wall, a pair of leather gloves lay nearby, and a makeshift sharpening stone, a flat rock with an old, worn cloth for polishing, was set up to help maintain their tools. Though far from ideal, these items were repurposed to support their current tasks.
Master Jiang, ever resourceful, assessed their setup and gathered Xiao Bai and Xiao Feng around him. The courtyard was alive with the sounds of their work—axes chopping rhythmically, knives scraping across wood, and the occasional clink of metal against timber.
"We may not have our full set of tools," Master Jiang said, his voice steady and encouraging, "but we'll make do with what we have. Precision is still key, even with limited equipment. Use your ingenuity and focus on your technique."
He demonstrated the use of a carving knife, emphasizing the importance of control and accuracy despite their makeshift tools. "This knife might not be as refined as the ones we use in our main workshop," Master Jiang explained, "but it can still produce fine results if handled properly."
Xiao Bai and Xiao Feng observed closely, their eyes following Master Jiang's deliberate movements. Each apprentice took their turn with the knife, working on small pieces of timber. Their strokes were measured, aiming to capture the delicate details despite the limitations of their equipment.
"Master Jiang," Xiao Feng asked, glancing up from his work, "how do we stabilize the wood without a proper vise?"
Master Jiang pointed to a pair of makeshift clamps crafted from scrap wood. "We use these clamps to secure the timber. They may not be ideal, but they get the job done. For larger pieces, you can also use heavy stones or blocks to keep them steady."
Xiao Bai surveyed their temporary workshop and inquired, "I've noticed we're missing many of the finer tools we usually use. How do we manage without them?"
Master Jiang smiled, his expression a blend of encouragement and practicality. "While we may be short on specialized tools, focusing on the fundamentals is key. A well-maintained edge on your knives and careful handwork can still produce excellent results."
He continued with a lesson on tool maintenance. "We must also remember the importance of maintaining our tools. Sharp and clean tools are vital for precision and safety. Tomorrow, we'll dedicate time to sharpening and caring for our axes and saws. A well-maintained tool is the mark of a true woodcutter."
Xiao Bai agreed, "I noticed some of my tools were getting a bit dull by the end of the day."
"Exactly," Master Jiang replied. "A dull tool isn't just less effective; it's dangerous and can compromise the quality of your work. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure both safety and efficiency."
The apprentices nodded in understanding, their eyes scanning the tools and their makeshift setup. Xiao Bai carefully examined a rough wooden plank, adjusting it with a clamp made from rope and a heavy stone. Nearby, Xiao Feng handled a carving knife with concentration, working on intricate patterns.
Master Jiang moved between them, offering guidance and tips. "Even without our fine tools, your skill and patience will make a difference. Pay close attention to the grain of the wood and work steadily. A sharp eye and a steady hand can compensate for a lot."
The courtyard, though modest, reflected their adaptability. Wooden beams propped against the cabin's walls provided shade, and stacks of freshly cut timber were neatly organized, awaiting processing. A few rough but sturdy wooden stools served as additional work surfaces or seating for breaks.
As they worked, the apprentices often adjusted their makeshift clamps and wiped their knives with cloths they had brought along. Although their setup was temporary, their craftsmanship started to shine. The rhythmic clinks of their tools blended with the rustling leaves of the surrounding forest, forming a harmonious backdrop to their industrious day.
Jiang Liheng took a moment to inspect their progress. "Excellent work so far. Even with limited tools, you're managing well. Remember, the quality of your work depends not on the tools but on your skill and dedication."
As Escort Bao Hong completed his security rounds around the cabin's perimeter, he cast an admiring glance at the apprentices' progress. The scene unfolding in the courtyard was a vivid testament to their adaptability and skill.
Xiao Feng, examining a smooth log of fine-grained wood, turned to Master Jiang with a question. "Master, how should we start on this piece?"
Master Jiang surveyed the log and nodded. "Choosing the right tool is crucial. For detailed work like this, a sharp chisel is essential. Pay close attention to the angle and pressure you apply; too much force can split the wood or ruin the pattern."
With that, Master Jiang demonstrated with skilled precision, carving a delicate pattern into the wood. Xiao Feng watched closely, his hands itching to try the technique himself.
"Your turn," Master Jiang said, passing the chisel to Xiao Feng. "Remember, it's not about how quickly you work but about control and accuracy. Each strike is a step toward greatness."
Taking a deep breath, Xiao Feng began to mimic Master Jiang's movements. His initial strokes were cautious, but as he continued, Master Jiang's guidance helped him gain confidence. Slowly, the intricate pattern began to emerge from the wood.
"Good job, Xiao Feng," Master Jiang encouraged. "It's not about how quickly you work but about control and accuracy."
Xiao Bai, watching intently, was eager to ask her own question. "Master Jiang, how can we tell if we're using the right tool for the job?"
Master Jiang smiled at her curiosity. "That's a great question. Each tool serves a specific purpose. For instance, a gouge is excellent for creating concave shapes, while a V-tool is ideal for fine lines and intricate detailing. Understanding the function of each tool is key to mastering woodworking."
As the morning sun ascended, its warm rays enveloping the forest, the front courtyard came alive with activity. The rhythmic chopping of axes and the hum of focused conversations created a lively atmosphere. The once-quiet space was now a hive of industry as three skilled woodcutters busily processed the freshly harvested timber, meticulously preparing it for transport in the coming weeks. The courtyard, with its scattered tools and piles of wood, thrived with purposeful energy, reflecting the dedication and hard work of the team.
Escort Hua Meilin emerged from the cabin and noticed Escort Bao Hong loitering around the courtyard, seemingly idle. She approached him with a raised eyebrow. "Bao Hong, have you already finished circling around the hunter's cabin and the surrounding area?" she asked, her tone inquisitive yet firm.
Bao Hong straightened up and nodded. "Yes, I've done my rounds. Everything's the usual—no signs of people or wild animals lurking around."
Hua Meilin nodded in approval. "I'm going to accompany Mistress Wu to the ancestral home," she informed him. "Chief Jing is currently helping the physician with the unconscious patient, so I'll be carrying some things for Mistress Wu. First, we'll visit the courier station at the river dock to send some messages and letters."
Hearing this, Bao Hong's eyes widened. "Could you wait a moment? I have a letter I wrote during the storm for my old mother. I didn't get the chance to hand it over yesterday."
"Of course, go get it."
Bao Hong hurried to the sleeping quarters to retrieve his letter. "Longhe's gratitude," he said.
As Hua Meilin waited, she recalled the previous night when Chief Helper Jing Xiu had gathered letters from everyone to send back to their families in Fènghuáng village. Although their stay at the hunters' cabin had been less than a week, the recent storm had made it necessary to reassure their families of their safety.
Chief Jing had approached Hua Meilin and her husband, Zhu Changli, first when they returned from their evening walk and routine inspection around the cabin. Entering the cabin, they ran into Helper Jing, who was just exiting the healer's room with a tray of empty plates, likely from Physician Chu's meal.
"Physician Chu Feichen said he's too busy to write a letter now," Helper Jing had informed them. "Do you have any letters to send?"
Zhu Changli had gone to retrieve their prepared letters. Meanwhile, she and Helper Jing watched Team Leader Chun Haoyu sharpening his sword. Helper Jing approached him and asked, "Escort Chun, do you have a letter?"
Team Leader Chun nodded and pulled out a carefully folded letter from his tunic. "Yes, I wrote it last night for my wife. Here you go."
Chief Jing smiled. "Your wife is around the same age as Mistress Wu, isn't she?"
"Yes, she's about a decade younger than me," Chun Haoyu admitted modestly.
"Don't worry, you're still young yourself," Chief Jing reassured him., moving on to Wu Yunzhou, who was organizing supplies. "Yunzhou, a letter for your family?"
Wu Yunzhou handed over two letters. "One for my wife and son, and one for my mother. Father wouldn't have had the time to write."
Next, after setting down the tray, Helper Jing found Cook Gu in the kitchen, who handed over a letter for his daughter. "Cook Gu, do you have a letter for Yiyi?"
Cook Gu wiped his hands on his apron and pulled a letter from his pocket. "Yes, asking about the kitchen situation at Dragon's Edge."