A Divine Farmer

Chapter 139 - This Had to be a Tribute

“What's going on?” Zhang Xiaoloong queried, noticing the elders' intense gazes.

“Xiaoloong, what are your plans? When do you intend to marry?” Liu Mei inquired, “Give us a heads-up so we can prepare accordingly.”

“Marriage?” Zhang Xiaoloong paused, taken aback. “It's premature. Yaru and I haven't discussed it yet. Plus, I aim to pursue further studies next year. It'll likely be later.”

Zhang Daniu cleared his throat, his wife chiming in, “In my experience, a man ought to establish a family and career first. You've done well with your vegetable garden. But how much can one earn from it? It's time to consider settling down.”

“But legally, I still have two years before I can register, don't I?” Zhang Xiaoloong grinned, “Even if Yaru's of age, registering her alone won't suffice. Plus, we haven't discussed the timeline, nor has Uncle Chen broached the subject. What's the rush?”

“That's why I suggested you take initiative. You're already sharing a bed. It's time to meet the in-laws,” Liu Mei urged, stepping closer. “If the paperwork's delayed, start with the ceremony. Many in the village have done the same.”

“Yes, yes. Inform Yaru's father too. Let's arrange a meeting to discuss this,” Zhang Daniu added.

“Alright. I'll bring it up to them later,” Zhang Xiaoloong acquiesced. If Chen Zhaomin and Yaru didn't object, complying with the old men's wishes wouldn't be an issue.

With the elders placated, Zhang Xiaoloong retreated into the greenhouse.

He planned to renovate it, but daytime visitors made it inconvenient. Thus, he opted for nighttime.

Upon arrival, he retrieved the glass left by Chen Yaru to expand the greenhouse. Using his divine power, he enhanced and enlarged the structure until satisfied.

The greenhouse now spanned not just an acre, but one and a half. One acre for Hong Yan's consumption, the remaining half for the Four Appearances Divine Orchid to flourish.

This ensured a continuous vegetable supply and ample raw material for the beverage factory's orchids.

The Four Appearances Divine Orchid held immense value; even the stalk he'd given to Lee Donghua warranted eight million, its worth undeniable.

Its rarity would make it priceless on the market, perhaps fetching even ten million.

Zhang Xiaoloong's version was of the utmost quality. Its unveiling would astound the world.

However, if its abundance became known, its value would plummet.

Rarity dictated worth; hence, Zhang Xiaoloong eschewed using orchids for profit, instead focusing on beverages.

Additionally, the true value lay in its nutrition and flavor, not just its beauty. Preserving its allure necessitated scarcity.

Maximizing its potential was his current endeavor.

After a night of labor, he arranged the vegetables and orchids, gathered some petals, and headed for Qingyang City.

Chen Yaru awaited him at the company, and upon his arrival, they proceeded into the factory together.

The factory staff, recruited by Wang Zongming, were well-versed in operational procedures despite the facility's recent establishment.

Seasoned veterans, introduced during Wang Zongming's transition of responsibilities to Zhang Xiaoloong, further facilitated operations.

Zhang Xiaoloong, succinct in his directives, distributed Four Appearances Divine Orchid petals to the workers, instructing adherence to the original production process, utilizing the petal as a key ingredient to assess the final product.

Uncertain of the beverage's flavor despite knowing the delectability of the Four Appearances Divine Orchid, further exploration appeared necessary.

The waiting period grew tedious for Chen Yaru, her anticipation for the Four Appearances Divine Orchid tempered by the realization that any issues would only surface post-production.

Failure to succeed necessitated alternative approaches. How to incorporate delicious elements to accentuate the effect posed a crucial question.

A factory representative eventually summoned Zhang Xiaoloong and Chen Yaru to inspect the newly crafted beverage.

Wang Zongming, upon hearing of the new creation, joined them with keen interest.

Upon entry, Wang Zongming was greeted by a captivating aroma, neither faint nor overpowering, yet pleasantly lingering.

“What a delightful fragrance!” Wang Zongming exclaimed in surprise. Could it emanate from the new beverage?

His visit stemmed from curiosity; while various drinks were available, innovation seemed scarce.

He anticipated the new drink to conform to familiar molds, offering little deviation.

However, the distinct aroma challenged his expectations. It bore no resemblance to any fruit known to him, nor anything else.

Intrigued, he pondered the composition of this unique scent. Was it a beverage or a perfume?

“President Zhang, this is the freshly concocted beverage. Please try it,” the workshop director offered, presenting a light green drink reminiscent of apple juice.

Though tempted, they refrained from indulging until the arrival of Zhang Xiaoloong and other managers.

“Big Brother Wang, have a taste,” Zhang Xiaoloong invited, his demeanor now composed.

The fragrance matched expectations, indicating success in the creation of the new drink.

Wang Zongming sampled the beverage, experiencing an explosion of flavors on his palate. Sweet yet not cloying, its aroma seemed to permeate his being. He eagerly drained the cup.

“Incredible!” he exclaimed, feeling rejuvenated. “No, this cannot be sold; it belongs in ancient times, as a tribute!”