Beastmaster: I'm really just a forest ranger

Chapter 427 New Year's Eve Operation

On his first morning back at the farm, Chen Yuan had a rare chance to sleep in undisturbed.

Outside the window, the winter sun shines through the thin clouds, casting a warm but not glaring light. The air is filled with the familiar scent of earth, peaceful and serene.

He lay in the soft quilt, the fatigue of the past few days, the tension of the competition and the noise brought by glory were all washed away in the tranquility of home, leaving only a sense of relaxation and comfort that came from the bottom of his heart.

He didn't get up until the sun was high in the sky, feeling refreshed and all his fatigue gone.

However, just as he finished washing up and was about to enjoy breakfast, the old man came over with a bowl of steaming millet porridge:
"You're awake? I didn't wake you because you were sleeping so soundly. Today is New Year's Eve! Wenhao just called; he's already on his plane back and will arrive tonight."

"Lunar New Year's eve?"

Chen Yuan's hand, holding the bowl of porridge, froze in mid-air, a look of surprise flashing across his face.

He blinked, and then it dawned on him.

Yes, he was completely immersed in the fierce battles of the Donghuang Tournament, along with the subsequent award ceremony, social engagements, and the trip to the Abyss Dragon Cave, and completely forgot about the most important traditional festival of the year.

However, my younger brother isn't doing much better. Just a few days ago he was clamoring to hurry back to school to continue his research, but today he has to rush home.

Chen Yuan slapped his forehead and quickly finished his porridge. The leisurely atmosphere he had planned for the first day of his return was instantly shattered, replaced by a sense of urgency and busy joy as the holiday approached.

Since it's Lunar New Year's Eve, such an important day for family reunion, the farm must be properly decorated to welcome the new year.

He called all the little creatures on the farm to his side and began to make plans.

The first important thing, of course, is a thorough cleaning.

To bid farewell to the old year and welcome the new, we must clean the farm inside and out thoroughly, making it look brand new.

When it comes to cleaning, only one type of pet can handle this arduous task.

Chen Yuan looked around and his gaze fell directly on the Wood Spirit Rat family. He had just opened his mouth and hadn't even uttered a sound when he saw the family already lined up in a neat row, heads held high and chests puffed out as they walked up to him with small steps.

Scarface Ratman stood up, patting his chest with his tiny paws, his small, beady eyes gleaming with unwavering confidence: "Whoosh!"

When it comes to cleaning and tidying, they are absolutely professional.

"Whoa, whoa, whoa!!!"

The little wood mice echoed each other, waving their paws and shaking their bushy tails.

Seeing their energetic appearance, Chen Yuan couldn't help but smile and nodded: "Alright, the important task of the big clean-up is entrusted to you. Please take care of everything, inside and out, every nook and cranny!"

"call out!"

The mice are duty-bound to contribute to the farm!
The Wood Spirit Mouse family let out excited cries and immediately scattered. Scarface Mouse took charge of planning and directing, while the little Wood Spirit Mice nimbly darted up and down. Some used their tails as brooms to start clearing the snow, while others ran into the house pushing small rags, busily getting to work.

The second thing is to buy New Year's goods and snacks.

Upon hearing the words "buy snacks," Runrun Duck, who had been yawning and sleepy on the corner mat, instantly seemed to be injected with vitality. Its eyes widened, and it jumped up with a "quack," flapping its wings frantically, opening and closing its beak, excitedly circling around Chen Yuan's feet. Its meaning was crystal clear.

I'm going!

I'm the best at buying snacks!

On the other side, Youmi also quietly approached, her amber eyes gleaming, and she stuck out her little tongue to lick the corner of her mouth, with an expectant expression that said, "Pick me, pick me, I guarantee I'll complete the mission."

Chen Yuan looked at the two little guys who had volunteered and was at a loss for words.

If we send them to buy snacks, the purchase budget will probably be reduced by more than half before they even reach the town's convenience store.

Even if you manage to buy snacks, the two greedy little ones might devour most of them beforehand, and then you'll have to make up some lame excuse to fool them.

For example, a powerful pet might steal the snacks, or a gust of cold wind might blow them away.

Throughout history, procurement has always been of paramount importance, and it is absolutely crucial not to let "treacherous officials" handle it.

So he decisively rejected YaYa and YouMi's self-recommendation and glanced at the other little ones present.

"Electric Flying Cat, Falling Meteor Horned Beast," Chen Yuan pondered for a moment, then deployed his troops, "The task of purchasing snacks is entrusted to you."

Electric Flying Cat is shrewd and cautious, good at arithmetic, not easily fooled, and has rich purchasing experience. Moreover, it won't be greedy during this period of low mood.

The Fallen Horned Beast is calm and strong, capable of carrying a lot of loads on its back, making it the perfect transporter.

These two little guys used to go shopping together all the time, and having them buy snacks was the most reassuring thing to do.

Chen Yuan gave a detailed explanation of the types and quantities of snacks he wanted to buy and provided them with sufficient funds.

Electric Flying Cat nodded listlessly, then jumped onto the broad, stable back of the Fallen Horned Beast.

"roar~"

The Fallen Horned Beast let out a low roar and walked steadily toward the town.

Runrun Duck and Youmi, who were ruthlessly rejected, immediately wilted like frostbitten eggplants, staring at Chen Yuan with a pitiful expression.

"Don't be discouraged." Chen Yuan smiled and patted their heads. "You have more important tasks to do."

"Duck, go catch some fish."

“This is what you’re best at. Youmi, your fishing skills have been pretty good lately too. Go help Yaya.”

"You two go to Mingyu Lake, but don't stay out too late. Be back before evening."

"Tonight, we're making steamed fish, braised fish, and your favorite grilled fish!"

Upon hearing that there was fish to eat, Runrun Duck was instantly revitalized, excitedly quacking loudly.

Youmi rubbed her little paws together, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Coo-choo!"

Before Runrun Duck could get ready, Youmi flew off towards Mingyu Lake in a flash.

"quack!"

Runrun duck flapped its wings and waddled closely behind.

Wait for me, duck!

Watching the two little ones leave, Chen Yuan looked at the sparks on his shoulder:
"Spark, you're the fastest, go run a errand into the mountains for me. Tell Sangbiao and the others, as well as the bear father and cubs, that I'm back and I'm inviting them to have New Year's Eve dinner together tonight."

"Chirp."

Spark let out a clear cry to indicate that it understood, then spread its magnificent golden-red wings, transformed into a streak of light, and instantly disappeared into the distant horizon.

After making these arrangements, Chen Yuan looked at his remaining companions: Coke and Sprite, who were looking at him expectantly, and Chenmu Flower Fairy, who was hiding in her shirt pocket with her eyes closed, resting.

"As for us," Chen Yuan waved his hand, a bright smile spreading across his face, "Let's go! We'll go to town to buy the most important New Year's goods—Spring Festival couplets and fireworks, oh, and red lanterns!"

"Ow!"

"Wang Wang!"

Coke and Sprite immediately jumped around excitedly, their tails wagging vigorously like blooming dandelions.

Cola, in particular, was overjoyed, her mouth agape in an exaggerated grin.

The boss is gone!
The boss is finally gone!
I can finally spend time alone with my owner!
Before setting off, Chen Yuan saw the Frost Giant sitting cross-legged in the corner of the farm.

Thanks to the strong support of all the pets, the construction of the new town is progressing faster than expected and is now in its final stages.

At this stage, the Frost Giant no longer needs to exert much effort, so it has been relatively idle in the last few days.

"You should rest well during this time," Chen Yuan said with a smile, looking at the greatly enhanced Frost Giant.

Even the busiest oxen and horses should get some rest these days, let alone the Frost Giants who play a pivotal role in the construction project.

After making the arrangements, Chen Yuan, along with Coke, Sprite, and Morning and Evening Fairy, headed towards Xuanhe Town with great enthusiasm.

Along the way, Coke and Sprite were especially excited, chasing and playing with each other on the country road covered with a thin layer of snow, leaving a series of cheerful plum blossom-shaped footprints.

Today, Xuanhe Town is indeed very different from the past, with lanterns and decorations everywhere, exuding a strong festive atmosphere.

Every household has put up brand-new Spring Festival couplets and hung up red lanterns at their door.

The streets were bustling with people, all townspeople busy buying New Year's goods, their faces beaming with joy.

The children were especially happy, and the sound of firecrackers popping and crackling could be heard from the alleyway from time to time. The air was filled with the unique festive atmosphere of gunpowder smoke and the aroma of various foods.

Chen Yuan went directly to the town's general store and specially ordered several pairs of auspicious red Spring Festival couplets, as well as several large boxes of various kinds of fireworks and firecrackers.

When the shop owner saw Chen Yuan come to buy the goods in person, he refused to accept the money and insisted on giving him the New Year's goods as a gift, saying it was to congratulate him on winning the championship and bringing glory to the town. Chen Yuan was not willing to give in and argued with the shop owner for a long time before finally stuffing the money into the shop owner's hand. Carrying the bags of New Year's goods, he left the shop amidst the shop owner's helpless yet admiring smile.

When they returned to the farm, the Electric Flying Cat and the Fallen Horned Beast, who had gone out on a mission, had not yet returned, and the Ice Fox, who had been catching fish, was nowhere to be seen either.

Chen Yuan didn't delay and immediately began to set up. He brought over a ladder and prepared to put up the Spring Festival couplets.

First, there's the main entrance.

Chen Yuan stood at the gate, looking at the Iron-Headed Boy standing silently beside the gate like a loyal guard, his metal gleaming coldly in the winter sun, and unfurling the Spring Festival couplets that the boss had specially written with vigorous strokes.

The first line is: With unyielding spirit, they guard against the cold of winter.

The second line is: A steel-clad body stands tall, welcoming the New Year.

Horizontal scroll: Guarding Peace

He carefully spread the paste evenly and solemnly pasted the Spring Festival couplets on both sides of the gate.

The red paper with black characters, contrasting with the composed figure of the iron-headed boy, seemed particularly fitting and inspiring.

Iron-Headed Boy seemed to sense the meaning as well, his steel-like body appearing even more upright.

Chen Yuan smiled and said, "From now on, you will be the true gatekeeper of our farm."

"Crack." The Iron-Headed Boy remained unmoved, his eyes calm.

Next is the main entrance to the lobby.

Above the lintel, three gleaming plaques are neatly hung, from bottom to top: "Pioneers of the New Era", "Academic Pioneers", and the most dazzling and latest achievement, "Donghuang Champion".

Chen Yuan then unfurled another, more grand couplet, symbolizing a thriving business.

The first line is: Beasts accompany auspicious clouds, rising with propitious energy.

The second line is: Talented people emerge in prosperous times.
Horizontal scroll: A Bright Future

When Jiang Wenning posted the couplet in the group chat for her friends to choose from, she joked, "Chengzi, you've become the champion of Donghuang, what kind of future is worthy of you?"

In no time, Chen Yuan had pasted the Spring Festival couplets neatly and properly.

The bright red couplets and golden plaques complement each other, perfectly highlighting the festive atmosphere of the New Year and the vibrant energy of the farm.

"Done!"

Chen Yuan climbed down the ladder and looked at his work with satisfaction.

Looking around, the Wood Spirit Mouse family was diligently busy, cleaning the yard, windowsills, eaves, and corners until they were spotless.

Cola and Sprite circled around the boxes of fireworks he had bought, sniffing them curiously with their noses and carefully pawing at them with their paws, their eyes filled with longing for these novelties.

Looking at their adorable appearance, Chen Yuan suddenly felt a surge of childlike wonder.

He smiled mysteriously and said, "Come on, let me show you something fun."

Chen Yuan walked to the corner of the yard and brought out the iron basin he usually used to feed Kele.

Then, he opened a box of firecrackers he used to play with as a child and placed them in the open space in the middle of the yard.

Under the curious gazes of Coke and Sprite, he arranged the box of sparklers neatly, ensuring they could all be lit in an instant, and immediately shouted, "Spark, ignite!"

I turned my head and saw that there was no movement.

Oh, so Spark hasn't come back yet.

Chen Yuan chuckled, then carefully extended his right hand and lit the fire with a lighter.

After completing this step, he quickly turned the iron basin upside down, covering the sizzling firecrackers.

"Bang!!!"

A muffled thud came from under the iron basin.

Immediately afterward, to the horror and surprise of Coke and Sprite, the iron basin was violently blasted more than half a meter into the air by the force of the firecracker explosion, then rolled several times in the air before crashing to the ground with a thud.

The sudden loud noise startled the two little creatures, but they quickly realized there was no danger and were immediately drawn to this novel phenomenon, excitedly barking around the fallen iron basin.

However, after shouting for a while, the cola suddenly stopped.

It tilted its head, staring at the dark, smoky iron basin on the ground, and the more it looked at it, the more familiar it seemed.

The size, the shape, the dents and scratches on the edges—they're so similar.
Suddenly, it realized what was happening, its fur almost standing on end. It excitedly pounced on the metal basin, scratching at it with its paws and whimpering with a mixture of grievance and anger: "Awooo!!!"

This...this is my eating bowl!

Chen Yuan watched as Kele's expression shifted from excitement to shock, and then to a pitiful look, and finally couldn't help but burst into laughter.

For a moment, the courtyard was filled with a joyful atmosphere.

At the same time, Electric Flying Cat and Fallen Horned Beast's shopping trip encountered an unexpected "sweet trouble".

The two little ones are considered regulars in town, especially since Chen Yuan won the Donghuang Tournament, his pets have also become well-known "stars".

As soon as they appeared at the market entrance, especially with the Fallen Horned Beast carrying several empty cloth bags that were clearly meant for carrying things on its back, they immediately became the focus of the entire market.

"Look, look! It's the champion's pet coming to do New Year's shopping!"

Warm greetings came from all directions.

Just as Dian Dian Fei Mao was following Chen Yuan's instructions, he took out the prepared cash from a cloth bag. Before he could even walk to the first stall, he was surrounded by a swarm of merchants and townspeople.

Xiao Zhao, the fruit vendor, was quick-witted and nimble. Without saying a word, he picked up a whole box of fresh fruit, shouting, "Let Consultant Chen have a taste!" and stuffed it into the large cloth bag on the back of the Fallen Horned Beast.

Aunt Wang, who runs the snack stall next door, was even more exaggerated. She was laughing heartily as she shoved her hands and feet into a large plastic bag, stuffing it full of all sorts of homemade snacks: sesame candy, peanut brittle, glutinous rice strips, and the shop's most popular pastries and candied fruits. She kept muttering to herself:

"It's Chinese New Year, so we have to eat snacks. Here, take some."

Uncle Zhao, who runs the sesame seed cake shop, is very honest. He directly took out several freshly baked, steaming, golden and crispy sesame seed cakes from the scorching oven, their aroma filling the air.

He wrapped it in oil paper, carefully placed it on top of the cloth bag, and said with a simple smile, "It's fresh out of the oven, keep it warm. Consultant Chen has been busy all year, thank you for your hard work."

This was just the beginning. The neighbors around were putting things into the cloth bag. One would grab a handful of roasted nuts, another would stuff in a bag of dried fruit, and yet another would add a few sausages. Almost everyone was adding something to the bag.

The electric flying cat was so anxious that it kept meowing "electric," its little paws tightly clutching the banknotes Chen Yuan had given it, trying to hand them over, but no one took them.

People just smiled and waved, or gently pushed its paw back.

The Fallen Horned Beast, with its gentle nature, could only stand there helplessly in the face of this overwhelming enthusiasm, letting out a roar tinged with resignation as it watched the bag on its back bulge at an astonishing speed.

They are neither good at nor able to refuse such simple and sincere kindness.

Ultimately, the procurement task turned into a one-sided feast of gifts.

When the two little ones finally managed to break free from the enthusiastic crowd and set off on their way back to the farm, the few cloth bags on the Fallen Horned Beast's back, which had originally been empty, were now stuffed full, with some items almost overflowing.

But the banknote in the paw of the electric flying cat remained untouched, never used.

When they carried the small mountain back to the farm, Chen Yuan was stunned for a moment when he saw the unexpected abundance of New Year's goods, and then he couldn't help but laugh.

He shook his head, feeling both touched and helpless.

"Forget it, I'll go to town myself tomorrow, settle the accounts with each household, and then give them my thanks. It's never right to eat and take for free."

"Come on, let's bring everything in and put it away properly."

He categorized and organized various snacks, fruits, and cooked foods, placing them on the tables and cabinets in the kitchen and living room.

Soon, the once somewhat empty tabletop was filled with all sorts of New Year's goods, and the air was filled with the fragrance of fruits, the sweet aroma of pastries, and the aroma of baked flatbreads, instantly filling the air with a sense of abundance for the New Year.

Next, it’s all about waiting.

Chen Yuan lay on the soft sofa in the living room, leisurely watching the welcome special program on TV.

Coke and Sprite couldn't resist any longer and crowded around the pile of snacks, staring longingly at them.

Chen Yuan smiled and gave each of them a small piece of sesame candy. The two dogs, one big and one small, immediately lay down on the ground, crunching and munching away, their tails wagging happily.

The Wood Spirit Mouse family had already finished their spring cleaning, leaving the farm spotless and clean inside and out. Now they were quietly curled up in a warm corner to rest.

The afternoon sunlight streamed in through the clean glass windows, warm and inviting, and time seemed to pass peacefully and slowly as we waited.

(End of this chapter)