Chapter 28: Selling Wolf Meat…

Fang Dahai’s movements were fast—almost in the blink of an eye, he had skinned the wolf. He Maozhu looked at the intact hide, blinking in surprise. Glancing sideways at the other items on the ground, he couldn’t help but walk over, squat beside Fang Dahai, and ask softly:

“Are you planning to sell all of these?”

“Not really.”

Just as Fang Dahai finished speaking, He Yulan came out with a wooden basin of boiling water. She placed it not far from where Fang Dahai was, tested the water temperature with her hand, then quickly walked over to pick up the rabbit, ready to wash it.

Seeing this kind of unspoken coordination, Fang Dahai’s lips curved into a small smile. He turned back to He Maozhu and said:

“Uncle Laogen is visiting for the first time, so we should treat him to a meal. This rabbit will be the main dish today. By the way, Second Uncle, I’d like to ask you to join us as well—what do you think?”

How could he refuse? Faced with Fang Dahai’s respectful attitude toward his elders and his warm hospitality toward old neighbors, He Maozhu felt that if he didn’t join them, he’d be letting everyone down.

Uncle Laogen heard Fang Dahai’s words too. Being treated so kindly as an old neighbor made him quite happy. But in our country, especially among the older generation, there’s a strong sense of modesty and politeness. So although he couldn’t hide his smile, he waved a hand and said disapprovingly:

“Aiya, I just came by to say hello, to find your place—no need for a meal. That rabbit is really nice, it could fetch a good price. No need to waste it.”

“How can you call it a waste if it’s something we’re eating ourselves? Besides, Uncle Laogen, you helped us bury my father. That’s a huge favor. Even though we’re young, we understand gratitude. We’re genuinely happy to treat you to something good and repay a little kindness. Don’t stop me from doing that. If word got out that we didn’t even offer a proper meal, how would we have the face to return to the village in the future?”

Hearing this, Uncle Laogen truly couldn’t argue anymore. He could only reach out and lightly point at Fang Dahai a few times, saying with a smile:

“You rascal. I don’t remember you being so eloquent in the past. Looks like the feng shui in the capital really is different.”

Different indeed. In any case, now that he was here, not inviting him to stay for a meal would be unthinkable.

“Dajiang! Dajiang! Hurry up and help Uncle Laogen inside. He’s been walking all morning and must be tired by now. How can you be so clueless?”

Dajiang sprang up from his stool. He had been hovering within five meters of Fang Dahai the whole time, watching his older brother work, eager to help but unsure what to do. Hearing his brother finally give him a task, he leapt into action with enthusiasm. Uncle Laogen was nearly dragged into the house by his eagerness.

Seeing the guests enter the house, He Maozhu cast a glance at the nearby neighbors. Though they appeared busy with their own affairs, their eyes occasionally drifted toward this side. Lowering his voice a bit more, he leaned in and asked softly:

“What about the rest? Are you planning to sell this pheasant? I know a lot of restaurants that are still buying. A few of them are still open, and it should fetch a good price. At the very least, it should go for one yuan apiece.”

“Sure, that works. I could use a bit more cash in hand anyway.”

Fang Dahai was hoping to turn the game into a bit of extra income on the side, so how could he not agree after hearing that? Not only did he agree, but he also took the opportunity to ask about current fur prices in the capital.

“…If the price is good, I’ll sell it. If not, I’ll just save them up and use them to make some wool-lined clothes for the family. That works too.”

“Rabbit fur’s not worth much—barely a few yuan—but wolf pelts still fetch a decent price. As for the exact amount, I can’t say for sure. I’ll help you ask around.”

“Then please do.”

“What about this wolf meat—how are you planning to deal with it?”

Deal with it? …Fang Dahai raised his eyes to look at He Maozhu and saw him wink meaningfully, glancing now and then toward the watching neighbors. He immediately understood. With a small smile, he said:

“Not many people are fond of wolf meat, and it doesn’t sell for much. I was thinking of offering it to the neighbors—see if anyone wants some. It’s still meat, after all.”

“That’s a good idea. But, Dahai, about the price for the wolf meat…”

“I’m not looking to make much off it. So let’s say—whoever wants some can pay just a few yuan. Second Uncle, does that sound fair to you?”

How tactful! How thoughtful his words were! And how seamlessly he coordinated with him! Most importantly, he even asked if it was appropriate—it really left no room for criticism. Not only was he making a good impression on the neighbors, but he was also showing care for He Maozhu’s face. If He Yusong weren’t his real nephew, He Maozhu would’ve seriously considered adopting him on the spot.

“Fair—absolutely fair. You just moved in a few days ago, and this is a great chance to get to know the neighbors better. Once there’s that bond, if you ever have to go out, there’ll be more people around to help your family.”

“Then would Second Uncle help me with that? I don’t even know how many households live in this courtyard. If I try to go door to door myself and accidentally skip someone, that wouldn’t be good. You’re the elder, so I’ll trouble you to greet them for me.”

Ooops!, how could this be considered trouble? This was clearly a matter that would earn him face and respect. How could He Maozhu possibly refuse? Not only did he not refuse, but he stood up, gave a playful kick to He Yusong, who was crouching beside Fang Dahai watching him skin the animal, and scolded with a grin:

“You useless thing, didn’t you hear what your brother-in-law said? Hurry up and go inform the folks in the central and back courtyards.”

“Huh? Inform them about what? The price hasn’t even been set yet. Brother-in-law, how many people are you expecting? What if they come with cabbages and turnips to barter—will that work? If so, how many cabbages? How many turnips?”

Who says He Yusong is naive? Look at him—he clearly understands what’s going on, and he’s quick-witted too. He knows some stingy folks might not want to pay and might try to shamelessly barter with worthless goods. What a timely reminder!

Fang Dahai’s impression of He Yusong had just improved. After all, who doesn’t know how dangerous it is out there? And yet, this kid was still willing to follow him outside the city to wait for someone. That kind of loyalty shows that while Yusong might seem a little sloppy on the surface, he’s genuinely devoted to his family. To say more—he’s someone with a good heart and strong feelings.

Since the kid’s been good to him, of course Fang Dahai wanted to return the favor. That’s what family is, right? So upon hearing the exchange between father and son, he quickly chimed in and gave He Yusong a bit of face.

“If you hadn’t said anything, I might’ve forgotten that part. How about this—let’s say 20 coins per catty. As long as it’s something of reasonable value and useful in daily life, it can be used to trade. Second Uncle, what do you think?”

He was clearly speaking up for Yusong. Even if He Maozhu knew his son wasn’t the brightest or the most lovable, hearing someone praise him like that—calling him sharp and considerate—still made him happy. For once, he gave He Yusong, who was usually scolded and beaten, a rare look of approval.

“Kid’s not bad—now go on and hurry up. And bring my meat-cutting knife while you’re at it.”

Perhaps it was because he rarely heard praise from his own father, but when He Maozhu said that, He Yusong froze for a few seconds. By the time he came back to his senses and obediently stood up to head out, there was still a look of disbelief on his face.

Poor kid—he’s been beaten into submission.

Fang Dahai silently mourned for him for three seconds, then turned to help He Maozhu begin handling the curious neighbors in the front yard.

People these days—just hearing the words food and cheap was enough to get them moving. Before He Yusong even returned from the back, someone from the side yard, sharp-eared and smiling, had already come over with something in hand, clearly hoping to be the early bird and get the best cut. How could they refuse?

Not to mention, Aunt Qiao from the east room had just made contact a few days ago. They’d been coming and going quite often lately, so it wouldn’t do to leave her out now.

“Auntie Qiao, go ahead and pick—want that piece? I’ll cut it for you.”

“Well, of course—it’s gotta be the leg meat. That part’s the firmest. Add a splash of wine and stew it long enough—it’ll come apart into jerky. Just right for your Uncle Qiao to snack on with his drink.”

“You’re quick, Auntie Qiao. You’ve already figured out how to cook it. I’m still debating whether to make a meat soup for dinner.”

“Say, say—does it really work, stewing it with wine?”

“You didn’t know? Wolf meat has a strong gamey smell. If you don’t stew it with wine, it’s inedible. That’s how you get rid of the odor.”

“As long as it’s meat, I don’t care if it’s good or not. It’s still nourishing.”

“Hey, hey, hey, aunts! You’re here to trade for meat, not to hold a food conference! You’re chatting like it’s tea time—how about wrapping things up and moving along? Don’t you see more and more people are gathering in front of the house? If you don’t clear out soon, even passersby will start poking their heads in for a look.”

Not that Fang Dahai was particularly worried. Though gossiping was an irresistible pastime for these women, when it came to essentials like handling meals, they were impressively efficient. Sure enough, even while chatting, several of them had already handed over their goods and were haggling over the price down to the last coin.

“My two cabbages weigh six pounds, Master He—cut me a piece to match that. I want the stomach meat—it’s at least greasy.”

“Dasong, what took you so long with that knife? Master He, hurry up! We’re all waiting!”

“I’ve got half a bar of soap—can I trade with that?”

“I’ve got a piece of scrap cloth at home, more than three feet long. That’s enough to make an outfit for a little one. Master He, don’t you dare short me!”

…

Back and forth it went, until all that remained of the wolf was a skeleton. Yet even then, the crowd’s hunger for meat didn’t waver. The bones were split in half and bought up. To Fang Dahai’s surprise, one of the buyers was actually the old lady who lived in the backyard.

He glanced at the pile of miscellaneous goods—things people had bartered with, mostly daily necessities and vegetables. Patting the handful of coins the old lady had just slipped into his pocket, he nudged He Maozhu with his shoulder and, watching the crowd of women gradually disperse, leaned in to ask quietly:

“This old lady… does she even have enough to get by?”

“She really doesn’t. Books are expensive these days.”

“Books? I thought her son’s just teaching at the elementary school?”

“He wants to go to college. Since he’s their only child and has ambition, the old couple is doing everything they can to support him.”

Ah, so that’s how it is. That’s no easy feat. Sigh… the hearts of parents are the same everywhere.

“I say, instead of looking at them, how about your two pheasants? Want me to sell them off for you right now?”

“Don’t be in such a hurry. Let’s eat lunch first. Yulan’s almost done cleaning the rabbit—let’s hurry up and enjoy a good meal. Gotta save some strength if we’re going to haggle with people later.”

As if there were any serious haggling to be done. Just two pheasants—how much could they fetch? At most, up or down, maybe 50 copper. This was just an excuse—he clearly wanted the chef’s help preparing the rabbit.

He Maozhu nodded at Fang Dahai knowingly, shook his head with a faint, amused smile, and took the initiative to reach out toward He Yulan.

“Alright, hand it over. I’ll take the rabbit home and cook it. With how little oil and seasoning your place has, what could you possibly make? Don’t go ruining such good meat.”

Oh dear, he’s being so proactive. A little embarrassing, really.

Fang Dahai gave a slightly sheepish smile. Unfortunately, the scene just now—him being a little too enthusiastic—had already exposed his intentions. No matter how shyly he smiled, He Maozhu wouldn’t take him seriously. As if to brush it off, He Yusong, who’d come over to check out the wolf skin, chimed in with a grin, saying casually:

“My dad’s cooking is delicious, Brother-in-law. You’re in for a treat today.”

Fang Dahai had known from the day they met that He Yusong was a glutton. But he hadn’t expected that even after being told to stay back and host the guests, He Yusong wouldn’t try to sneak a meal in. He just kept saying “you” and “your” like he had no stake in it at all. So this He Yusong—was he only respectful at home and not outside? Is that what’s going on here?

That’s exactly what it was. Because the moment He Maozhu left carrying the rabbit, He Yusong followed right after. As he walked, he even asked his father:

“Dad, since you’re making something good for lunch, can I have the leftover steamed buns from this morning? You can’t be eating the tasty stuff while your own son’s stuck with bland food, right?”

“You little brat! When have I ever let you eat bland food? Stop yapping and go get that bottle of Erguotou I stashed under the bed!”

Erguotou? Fang Dahai’s eyes widened—he’d completely forgotten to prepare any liquor.

“Dajiang! Dajiang!”

“Big brother, I’m coming!”

“Here’s some money. Go buy a bottle of Erguotou, quick. You know where to get it?”

“Yeah, the grocery store at the end of the street sells it.”

“Good, then get moving!”

After sending Dajiang off on the errand, Fang Dahai turned around to pack up the bartered goods—only to find it was already done. He Yulan had taken charge, with Vanilla helping too. Even Uncle Laogen, who had just been resting in the house, had come out to help carry cabbages inside.

“Ay, ay, ay! Uncle Laogen, you’re a guest! Why are you helping with the heavy lifting?”

“It’s just lending a hand. Don’t fuss—it’s nothing.”

Indeed, it was just as well. It was only one wolf’s worth of meat—how much could it really be exchanged for? A few people didn’t even need to make two trips; everything was packed neatly into the house. The only troublesome part was cleaning up the bloodstains at the doorway.

Inside, Uncle Laogen sat watching Fang Dahai carefully trimming the remnants of the wolf skin. His gaze wandered unconsciously around the house, finally landing on the rows of grain containers. After hesitating for a moment, he lowered his voice and asked:

“Dahai, why did you buy so much grain? Is something going on in the city?”

Ah, come to think of it—Fang Dahai had nearly forgotten.

“Uncle, the price of food in the city started rising a few days ago. I heard the news early, so I rushed to stock up while it was still cheap. I was worried there might be another war.”

The moment Uncle Laogen heard “war” and “price increase,” he couldn’t sit still anymore.

He had just helped marry off his younger brother in the city. Life wasn’t easy for them to begin with, and now with rising food prices… Just thinking about it made Uncle Laogen anxious for his brother. How were they supposed to get by?

“What do you mean, why did it suddenly go up? Just a few days ago, didn’t they issue new gold-dollar vouchers or something? Weren’t they saying it was to stabilize things? There’s still war? How? Weren’t they saying it was down south? Or out west? How did it get here?”

Uncle Laogen’s reaction was a raw and honest reflection of how ordinary people felt—afraid it was true, yet unwilling to believe it. The world was being tossed around with no order, no rules—it was truly maddening.

Fang Dahai wanted to offer some comfort, maybe hint at what he knew, but how could he explain it? Even though he understood the broader situation—that this chaos was the result of the ruling party’s desperate struggle for control, neglecting the people’s livelihoods in order to squeeze out more money—it wasn’t something he could just say out loud.

So he thought for a moment, and decided to explain using things that were easier to accept, so that this kind neighbor, this elder, would be better prepared.

“Think about our village. Those scattered soldiers who passed through—weren’t they all desperately searching for food? Even the army barracks are probably short on supplies. That’s why things are getting so messy.”

Yes, yes. Inside and outside the city, everyone was scrambling for food. This must be real, not just rumors.

“No, I have to go find your Uncle Liugen—quickly!”

But what good would that do? Those who hadn’t stocked up by now were likely already too late. Fang Dahai sighed inwardly, but his hands didn’t stop working. He gently pulled at Uncle Laogen’s sleeve and said quietly:

“Uncle Laogen, we’re not in bad shape right now. And as you can see, I’ve stocked up quite a bit. If Uncle Liugen really runs short, just have him come to me. I’ll help however I can—no need to panic!”

Fang Dahai was really willing to help? Uncle Laogen glanced again at the grain tanks and felt a little more at ease. But at the same time, a new frustration toward his younger brother crept into his heart.

“Tell me, how could he be so short-sighted? Even you, a youngster, knew to store food just in case. And him? He actually rushed into getting married at a time like this? Two more mouths to feed… he’s going to wear himself out, that fool.”

“You’re just being mean, aren’t you? Weren’t you anxious when he couldn’t find a wife? But the moment you found out he had finally found a daughter-in-law, didn’t you smile with joy?

The truth is, people can never really predict what lies ahead. Who knows which will come first—tomorrow or an accident? All we can do is count on a bit of luck.

But this really isn’t a topic worth continuing. Say any more, and are we even going to enjoy this meal? Look, even Second Uncle is carrying a pot over—that’s the main dish coming in!”