Chapter 94: Thunderstruck Wood
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Shen Jun rolled his eyes at Zhao Wu’s comment and retorted, “Unlike you, I don’t have a hobby of collecting romantic partners like you collect stamps.”
Zhao Wu observed the seriousness in Shen Jun’s tone, his expression becoming more complex. He replied, “Are you really considering tying yourself down at such a young age? Women are meant to be enjoyed for a few months. Her family has no power or influence, so she won’t be of any help to you.”
Shen Jun sat up straight, facing Zhao Wu with a determined expression. “Uncle, I’m being sincere. I don’t want to hear any more belittling remarks about her from you.”
Noticing Shen Jun’s resolute stance, Zhao Wu reluctantly set aside their playful demeanor and replied with a forced smile, “I understand, I understand.”
Zhao Wu considered the situation and reasoned that since it was Shen Jun’s first love, it held a certain significance. However, they believed that once the initial excitement wore off, Shen Jun might want to end the relationship. With this thought in mind, Zhao Wu decided not to say anything further, fearing that it might upset Shen Jun again and potentially lead him to complain to their grandmother, which could create unnecessary trouble.
Shen Jun recognized that it was unlikely for Zhao Wu to fully understand his perspective, but he also understood that this was not a matter that could be resolved with a simple conversation. Putting the issue aside for the time being, he decided to set his pride aside and humbly seek advice from Zhao Wu.
As Shen Jun displayed vulnerability, a smug expression crept across Zhao Wu’s face. “Do you recall who mentioned the term ‘ordinary classmate’ that night?”
Shen Jun appeared somewhat uncomfortable, but he maintained a gracious attitude as he admitted, “I made a mistake, Uncle. You have a keen eye for these things.”
Zhao Wu nodded with satisfaction. “Your attitude is commendable. Now, let me offer a few words of advice. It can be challenging for young couples, even those with a strong foundation, to navigate such tension. This situation is quite troublesome indeed. Without the guidance of an experienced lover like myself, you wouldn’t stand a chance.”
Seizing the opportunity, Zhao Wu brought up the purpose of his visit to Shen Jun. “Now, it’s time for you to demonstrate your sincerity. The two braised pig heads we discussed previously remain unchanged, but I’m a kind-hearted person. I don’t require a visit from you. There’s only one thing I want.”
Shen Jun asked, “What is it?”
Zhao Wu glanced at Shen Jun with a hint of nervousness in his expression. “Do you still recall the time when our grandmother gave you a wooden talisman made from thunderstruck wood? It was two years ago. You were going through a period of sleeplessness, plagued by peculiar dreams and a string of bad luck. Then, my mother—the old lady—took out a wooden talisman from the basement of our house and placed it near you. Soon after, you mentioned feeling better.”
Shen Jun looked at Zhao Wu suspiciously and took out a wooden token from his clothes. “This one?”
Zhao Wu’s face lit up with joy as he noticed the wooden talisman. “You still have it! That’s fantastic news. I’ve already arranged for someone to search for thunderstruck wood. Since you already possess it, I won’t ask you to hand it over permanently. Just lend it to me temporarily, and I’ll return it as soon as my contacts locate the thunderstruck wood.”
Shen Jun reflected on the period when he wore the wooden talisman. Surprisingly, after wearing it for a while, the strange phenomena ceased to occur. While he felt it was unnecessary to continue wearing it, his parents expressed concern and insisted that he keep it on. As a result, he continued wearing the talisman up until now.
Upon hearing this, Shen Jun’s face registered surprise, and he couldn’t help but tease Zhao Wu. “Aren’t you a self-proclaimed materialist? Why are you suddenly delving into feudal superstitions? Come on, explain it to me in detail.” Zhao Wu’s face showed a rare hint of discomfort. “Do you still want me to give you advice?”
Shen Jun could sense Zhao Wu’s genuine concern regarding the matter. With an indifferent expression, he responded, “If you’re not willing to help, I can figure something out on my own. However, finding thunderstruck wood is no simple task. This piece was given to me by Grandma. It’s a thousand-year-old jujube branch that my great-grandfather acquired during his time in the war. I can assure you that there are no more than three pieces of thunderstruck wood of such exceptional quality in the world.”
Zhao Wu realized that Shen Jun had caught onto his ulterior motive, as he had developed an interest in Shen Jun’s well-being. Now, with a favor to ask, Zhao Wu could only be honest about the situation. “Bai Ling has been experiencing restless sleep lately, much like you did before. Moreover, she has been facing a string of misfortunes. Just last week, she sprained her ankle, and then she happened to pass by a couple engaged in a violent argument. She was struck by an object that was thrown during the altercation. The doctor diagnosed her with a mild concussion.”
Zhao Wu continued recounting the recent events, his concern evident in his voice. “It was even worse yesterday. After work, I was walking on the sidewalk when Bai Ling was struck by a motorbike that had lost control. As I tried to protect her, my hand hit the cement guardrail of the green belt, resulting in a fracture. It’s becoming increasingly uncertain what awaits her next. Luckily, it’s the weekend today, and I’ve advised her to stay home.”
Shen Jun frowned when he heard that. “That’s indeed a little unlucky..”