In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

Yang Guangming and Chu Yuanjun returned to their rented east courtyard in silence.

Chu Yuanjun carefully helped her husband to sit down on a chair next to the Eight Immortals table, and then placed a low stool under his injured leg before straightening up and letting out a long sigh.

“Master Jiao… such a strong and upright person, how could he have suffered such a terrible misfortune?” Her voice was filled with sorrow and sympathy. “Seeing Sister Jiao and those two children crying so hard, my heart… also aches.”

Yang Huai-ren leaned back in his chair and murmured, "Yes... Brother Zhenshan was a good man. With him and his son in this courtyard, we felt much more at ease living here. Now that he's fallen, the Jiao family's sky... has collapsed halfway. From now on, this courtyard... sigh."

He sighed and didn't say anything more, but everyone understood what he meant.

The Jiao family father and son were the pillars of this courtyard. Now that the pillar has fallen, not only is the Jiao family in dire straits, but the sense of security in the entire courtyard also seems to have been weakened.

Little Jingyi nestled beside her mother, tilting her head up and asking timidly, "Mom, will Uncle Jiao... die?"

Although she was young, the desperate cries and the heavy atmosphere in the courtyard made her vaguely sense the shadow of death.

Chu Yuanjun quickly covered her mouth and whispered, "Children's words are innocent, children's words are innocent!"

Jingyi, don't talk nonsense! Uncle Jiao is a lucky man; he'll get better.

Even so, she knew in her heart what a wound infection and persistent high fever meant in this era of scarce medical resources.

The younger sister, Jingwan, looked at her brother, Yang Guangming, who had been silent all along, and asked softly, "Brother, did what you said about wiping your body with alcohol really work?"

Yang Guangming snapped out of his chaotic thoughts and nodded: "It's somewhat helpful. It's physical cooling, which makes him more comfortable, but it's only a temporary solution. The key is to control the infection inside the wound."

He paused, looked at his family's worried faces, forced a smile, and comforted them, "Dad, Mom, don't worry too much. We've done our best, we've done everything we could, the rest... is up to Master Jiao's own fate."

After dinner, the family chatted for a few more minutes before going their separate ways.

Chu Yuanjun helped Yang Huai Ren back to the main house in the east wing, while Jing Wan pulled Jing Yi back to the west wing.

Yang Guangming walked alone into the east wing where he lived.

He closed the door behind him and bolted it, and the room immediately fell silent. Only the occasional low chirping of autumn insects outside the window accentuated the stillness of the night.

He didn't light the lamp immediately, but instead sat down on the edge of the kang (a heated brick bed) in the dim moonlight streaming in from the window.

In my mind, the image of Master Jiao, unconscious and pale as paper, Aunt Jiao's heart-wrenching cries, and the two towering men, Jiao Da and Jiao Er, looking lost and silently shedding tears kept flashing back.

His heart wasn't made of iron; he couldn't possibly remain unmoved after witnessing such a human tragedy.

"I can't just stand by and watch someone die..." he murmured to himself.

Having a refrigerator and medicine from the future are his greatest assets, and also secrets he cannot easily reveal.

Taking out Western medicine pills directly is too conspicuous and too sensitive.

But what if we try a different approach?

His eyes gleamed with a thoughtful light in the darkness.

Traditional Chinese medicine... Chinese patent medicine pills!

If we mix the powders of antipyretics and anti-inflammatory drugs into some common Chinese medicinal materials, make them into Chinese medicine pills, and then send them to the Jiao family, saying that we asked a friend to get some special medicine from an old doctor, would this minimize the risk?

Although Chinese medicine is also precious, its origins are relatively easier to explain. There are many doctors hidden in the streets and alleys of Beiping (Beijing), and all kinds of ancestral secret recipes and folk remedies are as numerous as hairs on a cow. This excuse is barely plausible.

Moreover, the Jiao family is currently desperate and will grasp at any glimmer of hope. They probably won't, and dare not, delve into the specific source of the medicine. As long as they are instructed to keep it strictly confidential, there shouldn't be any major problems.

Having figured this out, Yang Guangming felt enlightened and made a decision.

With a slight thought, his consciousness sank into the refrigerator space in his mind.

Inside the refrigerated section, various medicines were categorized and arranged. He found ibuprofen sustained-release capsules and amoxicillin capsules.

What he needs is the medicinal powder inside.

Next, he searched the space for suitable materials to be used as a "medicinal catalyst" and for disguise.

There was a large jar of honey readily available; it was thick, sweet, and could effectively mask the unpleasant odor of the medicinal powder. Flour was also readily available.

I just bought some hawthorn pills from a shop a couple of days ago. They're a common stomach-soothing and digestive snack these days. They have a medicinal taste and a sweet and sour flavor, which can be used to increase the "credibility" of the finished product.

With all the ingredients ready, he carefully opened a few ibuprofen and amoxicillin capsules and took out the white powder inside.

Once the preparations are complete, divide the ibuprofen powder into three portions, wrap each portion in a small ball of dough mixed with hawthorn pieces, knead carefully, and shape into three dark brown pills.

This is the "fever reducer".

Then, he did the same thing again, making six similar-looking pills from amoxicillin powder as "anti-inflammatory pills".

He carefully wrapped the three fever-reducing pills and six anti-inflammatory pills in two clean sheets of oil paper, and then wrapped each of them in a layer of ordinary straw paper, making two small paper packets.

After doing all this, he did not immediately send the medicine over.

It's only just gotten dark, and there might still be people walking around in the yard. Delivering it now would easily attract attention.

He decided to wait until late at night, when all was quiet, before quietly handing it over to the Jiao family.

Just as Yang Guangming felt the time was right and was about to get up, a series of slightly hurried footsteps suddenly came from the courtyard, approaching from afar, seemingly heading towards the east wing.

The footsteps stopped outside the gate of Yang Guangming's house, followed by a hushed call: "Mr. Yang? Is Mr. Yang asleep?"

It was Jiao Da's voice! His voice was urgent.

Yang Guangming frowned slightly. What were they doing here so late? Had Master Jiao's condition worsened?

He quickly got up, put on his coat, and went to open the door.

Under the moonlight, Jiao Da and Jiao Er stood side by side at the door, their faces still wet with tears and their eyes red and swollen.

As soon as the sun opened the door, the two brothers knelt down on the cold blue brick floor with a "thump"!
"Mr. Yang!" Jiao Da's voice choked with sobs, "Thank you! Thank you for the method you taught me this afternoon! We wiped Dad's body with wine and forced some ginger soup down his throat, and Dad... Dad is no longer unconscious, he can say a few words intermittently! Although he still has a fever, he is a little more conscious!"

Jiao Er kowtowed repeatedly, "Mr. Yang, you are our family's great benefactor! If it weren't for you, we...we really wouldn't know what to do!"

Yang Guangming quickly stepped forward and helped the two men up, saying, "Brother Jiao, Second Brother Jiao, what are you doing! Get up! It's only right for neighbors to help each other, you absolutely mustn't perform such a grand gesture! It's a good thing that Master Jiao is still somewhat sober!"

He pulled the two of them into the house and closed the door behind him to avoid making any noise that would wake his parents.

Jiao Da and Jiao Er stood up, still unable to contain their excitement.

Jiao Da wiped his face hard with his sleeve, his voice trembling with endless pleading, and said, "Mr. Yang, we know... we know this request is excessive, but... we really have no other choice! The hospital kicked us out, and the doctor is helpless. We... we can only beg you!"

Jiao Er chimed in, "Mr. Yang, you are a learned man with broad knowledge and many acquaintances... We brothers just want to ask you... do you have any connections... can you get some medicine that's right for you? We'll do whatever it takes, even if it means selling our pots and pans or becoming slaves!"

Their eyes were fixed on Yang Guangming, filled with a desperate, all-or-nothing hope.

In their endless despair, this calm and insightful young man before them seemed to be the last straw they could grasp.

Although they knew in their hearts that this hope was as slim as a candle flickering in the wind.

Looking at the two men who had been driven to the brink of despair, Yang Guangming's last trace of hesitation vanished.

He had always intended to save the person; it was just a matter of timing. Now that the other party had come to him pleading for help, he was happy to oblige.

He hesitated for a moment, his face showing just the right amount of seriousness, and lowered his voice to say, "Brother Jiao, Second Brother Jiao, don't be in a hurry. Speaking of which... I just remembered something."

The two brothers immediately held their breath and stared at him without blinking.

Yang Guangming continued in a low voice, "I used to have a classmate whose family had a distant relative who was an old traditional Chinese medicine doctor who lived in seclusion in the Western Hills. It was said that he had several secret recipes passed down from his ancestors and had some unique methods for treating high fever and other serious illnesses caused by wound infections..."

He deliberately spoke vaguely, leaving room for interpretation.

Jiao Da and Jiao Er's eyes lit up instantly, as if drowning people had seen the lights on the other side!
"Really? Mr. Yang! You...you can get in touch with that old doctor?" Jiao Da's voice trembled with excitement.

Yang Guangming waved his hand, signaling them to be quiet, and a troubled look appeared on his face: "That old doctor has an eccentric personality. He has long since withdrawn from the world and never sees outsiders easily, much less takes action."

Many years ago, I overheard my classmate mention it by chance. I only knew that the pills he concocted were quite effective, but extremely rare…

Looking into the brothers' eager eyes, Yang Guangming seemed to have made up his mind.

He turned and walked to the cabinet, taking out the two small paper packets that had just been made.

"What a coincidence."

Yang Guangming handed the paper package to Jiao Da, speaking solemnly: "A couple of days ago, I helped that classmate with a small favor. He was grateful and gave me a few pills that his family always keeps on hand, saying they were a gift from an elder in his family, just in case."

It was originally intended for my family as an emergency measure, but now that Master Jiao's condition is critical, let's use it here first!

Jiao Da's hands trembled as he accepted the two small, inconspicuous paper packets.

He could hardly believe his ears and eyes! In this desperate situation, he had actually managed to obtain the medicine!
"This...this..." He was so excited he couldn't speak coherently, "Mr. Yang! This...this is too much for us to thank you for! How much does this medicine cost? We..."

Yang Guangming interrupted him, his expression becoming unusually serious, and his voice lowered even further: "Brother Jiao, don't mention the money again! I only gave you this medicine out of consideration for our neighborly relationship and out of respect for Master Jiao's character, to help you in this emergency."

But there are a few things you must remember!

He looked into Jiao Da and Jiao Er's eyes and instructed them word by word: "This medicine has a special origin and is said to be extremely effective, but you must keep it a secret! You must not tell anyone except your own family that I gave you this medicine! Including the other neighbors in the courtyard, and even the landlord, Mr. Shen!"

He emphasized, "If anyone asks, just say that Master Jiao is in good health and was lucky. He used a folk remedy to cool down and drank a sweating herbal soup. He toughed it out on his own!"

Do you understand? This concerns the safety of that old doctor, the situation of my classmate, and whether your family can safely obtain the medicine you may need later!
If word gets out, it will be impossible to get the medicine again, and it could lead to unnecessary trouble!

His sharp gaze instantly put immense pressure on Jiao Da and Jiao Er.

Although the two brothers were honest and straightforward, they weren't stupid. They immediately understood the implications. This medicine was probably not from a simple source, and Mr. Yang was taking a risk to help them!
Without hesitation, the two knelt down again, pointing to the sky and swearing, "Mr. Yang! Rest assured! We brothers swear to heaven that we will never reveal a single word about the origin of this medicine! If we do, may we be struck by lightning and die a horrible death!"

Yang Guangming helped them up again: "No need to swear, I believe you."

He picked up the two paper packets and carefully explained how to use them, "The smaller one contains three fever-reducing pills. You can take one bowl of them when you get home, and the high fever should come down quickly."

If Master Jiao's temperature rises again tomorrow and cannot be brought down, give him another pill. If the fever subsides, there is no need to give it again.

The large one contains six pills... medicine to clear heat, reduce swelling, and prevent wounds from worsening. Take one pill each morning and evening with warm water.

He specifically emphasized: "The medication may be quite potent, so please keep a close eye on it. Do not use antipyretics unless absolutely necessary. For medications to clear heat and reduce swelling, be sure to take them on time, twice a day, one pill each time, without interruption."

Jiao Da and Jiao Er memorized every word and nodded repeatedly.

"We remember! We all remember! Mr. Yang, our Jiao family will never forget your great kindness!"

Jiao Da clutched the two small paper packets tightly, as if he were grasping the hope for his father's life. Tears welled up in his tiger-like eyes again, but this time, they were tears mixed with gratitude and hope.

"Go back quickly, give Master Jiao his medicine and observe his condition." Yang Guangming patted him on the shoulder.

The two brothers thanked Yang Guangming profusely, bowed deeply to him, carefully put away their medicine bag, and hurriedly left the east wing. Their steps were much lighter than when they came, as if they had regained their strength.

After seeing the Jiao brothers off, Yang Guangming breathed a sigh of relief.

He has done all he could. Now that there is a cure, there is nothing to worry about.

He had just composed himself and was about to blow out the lamp and go to sleep when his mother, Chu Yuanjun, asked sleepily from the main room, "Guangming, who was that just now? I think I heard the Jiao brothers' voices?"

Yang Guangming opened the door and walked into the main room. He saw that the light in his parents' room was on, and his father, Yang Huai-ren, sat up, still wearing his clothes.

“Dad, Mom, it’s alright. It’s just that Brother Jiao and Second Brother Jiao came over.” Yang Guangming explained naturally, “They said that after using the method of wiping his body with wine and ginger soup, Master Jiao has become more sober and can say a few words. They came over to express their gratitude. I also told them some details about the care they should pay attention to and asked them to observe him carefully.”

He chose to keep the donation of medicine a secret. It wasn't that he didn't trust his parents, but rather that the fewer people who knew about it, the better. His parents were honest, law-abiding ordinary people; if they knew too much, they might reveal something out of worry.

Upon hearing this, Chu Yuanjun's face showed a hint of relief: "It's good that you're more lucid. It's truly a blessing from heaven. Alas, it's not easy." She didn't suspect anything, assuming that her son was just kind-hearted and gave the man a few more words of advice.

Yang Huai-ren nodded: "Guangming did the right thing, we should help him more. Alright, if there's nothing else, go to sleep early."

"Yes, Father," Yang Guangming replied, turning and returning to his east wing.

That night, the Yang family in the east courtyard gradually fell silent, but in the back room of the Jiao family in the front courtyard, a glimmer of hope was rekindled because of those two small packets of pills.

Jiao Da and Jiao Er carried the medicine packets and practically ran home.

As soon as they entered, Aunt Jiao anxiously greeted them. Seeing the long-lost excitement on her two sons' faces, she quickly lowered her voice and asked, "Eldest son, second son, how did it go? What did Mr. Yang... say?"

Jiao Da didn't say anything, but carefully took out the two oil paper packages and placed them on the edge of the kang (a heated brick bed).

Aunt Jiao's face showed a puzzled expression.

“This is…” Aunt Jiao asked.

Jiao Er whispered excitedly, "Mother! Mr. Yang... Mr. Yang... he gave us medicine!"

"Medicine?" Aunt Jiao's voice suddenly rose, then she immediately realized something, tightly covering her mouth, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Re...really? What medicine?"

Jiao Da took a deep breath, forced himself to calm down, and whispered back Yang Guangming's instructions, especially emphasizing the importance of keeping it a secret.

After hearing this, Aunt Jiao clasped her hands together and bowed repeatedly to the void, silently murmuring, "Heaven has opened its eyes... Bodhisattva protects... I've met a benefactor..." Tears welled up again, but this time they were tears of joy.

"Quick! Give your father the medicine!" she urged impatiently.

Master Jiao was still in a daze, sometimes lucid and sometimes confused, and his body was still burning hot.

The two brothers dared not delay. Following Yang Guangming's instructions, they took an anti-inflammatory pill and a fever-reducing pill, dissolved them in warm water, carefully pried open their father's jaw, and fed them little by little.

Perhaps it was the taste of honey and hawthorn in the pills that helped, because Master Jiao didn't have too much difficulty swallowing them.

After administering the medicine, the family gathered around the kang (a heated brick bed), nervously watching Master Jiao's reaction, not daring to even breathe loudly.

Time passed by, and the room was eerily quiet, with only the occasional soft crackling of the oil lamp's flame.

About half an hour later, Master Jiao, who had been keeping his eyes tightly closed and his brows furrowed, suddenly let out a muffled groan, his eyelids twitched a few times, and he slowly opened his eyes!
Although his eyes were still unfocused and weak, it was a world of difference compared to his previous coma where he had completely lost consciousness!

"Father! Father, you're awake!" Jiao Er was the first to cry out, unable to hold back his emotions.

Overjoyed, Aunt Jiao wept tears of joy, rushed to the edge of the kang (a heated brick bed), and tightly grasped her husband's hand: "Zhenshan! Zhenshan! Can you hear me?"

Master Jiao's gaze slowly shifted, as if trying to focus, until he looked at his wife and son. His lips moved a few times, uttering an extremely weak, hoarse sound: "Water... thirsty..."

"Quick! Bring me some water!" Aunt Jiao hurriedly ordered. Jiao Da quickly brought over a bottle of warm water and carefully fed his father a few sips.

After drinking the water, Master Jiao seemed to regain some energy. He examined his body and found that although he was still weak and in pain all over, especially the burning pain from the wound on his left leg, the feeling of being enveloped by a high fever and as if he were in purgatory seemed to have lessened somewhat.

Looking at his family gathered around the kang (a heated brick bed), their faces streaked with tears yet filled with anticipation, especially his two sons' red, swollen, yet bright eyes, he knew in his heart that something must have happened.

"How long... have I been asleep?" he asked in a hoarse voice.

"Husband, you've been unconscious for most of the day!" Aunt Jiao said, wiping away her tears. "If it weren't for... if it weren't for..."

Remembering Yang Guangming's instructions, she swallowed back what she was going to say and changed her words to, "If I hadn't used some folk remedies and given you a sweating soup, you still wouldn't have woken up!"

Master Jiao nodded slightly. He knew his own body well; it wasn't just the folk remedy that had helped. But he was still a little drowsy, so he didn't ask any more questions. He simply closed his eyes again and gathered his strength.

After a while, Jiao Da touched his father's forehead and was pleasantly surprised to find that the terrifyingly high temperature seemed to have subsided a bit! Although he still had a fever, it was no longer as hot to the touch as before!
"Dad's fever has gone down a bit! It really has gone down a bit!" he said excitedly to his mother and younger brother in a low voice.

This discovery greatly boosted the confidence of everyone in the Jiao family! Their gazes toward the two small paper packages were filled with awe and gratitude.

"What Mr. Yang gave me... is truly a miraculous medicine!" Jiao Er murmured, his gratitude towards Yang Guangming reaching an unparalleled level.

That night, no one in the Jiao family slept. They took turns watching over Master Jiao, feeding him water, wiping his body with warm water to lower his temperature, and observing every subtle change in him.

In the latter half of the night, Master Jiao's body temperature dropped further. Although he still had a low-grade fever, he was no longer in a dangerous state of high fever.

He even managed to drink a small half bowl of rice porridge.

The next morning, as the first rays of sunlight shone into the dimly lit Jiao family home, Master Jiao miraculously woke up completely on his own.

He leaned against the stack of bedding. Although his face was still pale and haggard, the unhealthy deathly gray had faded, and his eyes had regained some of their former clarity and sharpness, though he looked extremely tired.

He felt the wound on his left leg; the pain was still there, but the swelling, burning sensation, as if it were about to burst, had lessened considerably. He was filled with doubt and unease, knowing that his escape from the brink of death was no fluke.

Looking at his family members, whose eyes were sunken but whose faces were beaming with joy after a night of work, he asked in a deep voice, "Tell me the truth, what exactly happened? How was my life saved?"

Aunt Jiao and her two sons exchanged a glance. Finally, it was Jiao Da who spoke up. He told his father in a low voice how Yang Guangming had instructed them to rub their bodies with alcohol to cool down the fever the day before, how the two brothers had pleaded with Yang Guangming that night, and how Yang Guangming had produced the "secret medicine." He also emphasized again Yang Guangming's strict instructions about keeping it a secret.

After listening, Master Jiao remained silent for a long time.

He had roamed the martial arts world, worked as a镖师 (bodyguard/escort), and witnessed all sorts of people and events. He knew all too well how precious this "secret medicine" that could quickly reduce fever and control infection was! Especially in the current situation, it was no exaggeration to call it priceless!

For a young man from a tenant household to be able to produce such medicine, his background must be anything but simple.

But what he appreciated even more was the kindness and responsibility shown by the other party! Taking such a risk to use such precious medicine on their family, this kindness was heavier than Mount Tai!
He took a deep breath, looked at his family, and spoke with utmost solemnity, even a hint of grimness:

“You must all remember Mr. Yang’s words, engrave them in your bones! You must not tell anyone about the origin of this medicine! Even if a knife is held to your throat, you must not utter a single word!”

From now on, Mr. Yang will be a great benefactor to our Jiao family! You must treat him with the same respect you would show me! His family's affairs are our Jiao family's affairs! Understand?

"Understood!" Aunt Jiao and her two sons said in unison, their expressions solemn.

Just then, footsteps and voices came from the courtyard. It was Mr. Shen, the landlord, Mr. Liao, and several other neighbors who had come to visit Mr. Jiao early in the morning, concerned about his condition.

When they entered the Jiao family home and saw that Master Jiao, who had been on the verge of death and unconscious, was now sitting on the kang (a heated brick bed), weak but with clear eyes and able to talk to people in a low voice, everyone was stunned!

"Uncle Jiao! You...you're...healed?" Master Liao's eyes widened in disbelief.

Mr. Shen was also astonished. He pushed up his glasses and carefully examined Master Jiao: "My God! This...this is truly a miracle! He looked fine last night...and today...Master Jiao, your health is frighteningly robust!"

Following the pre-arranged script, Master Jiao forced a weak smile and said in a hoarse voice:

"Thank you all for your concern... cough cough... Maybe God doesn't want to take my wretched life yet. I used Mr. Yang's method to lower my fever, and drank ginger soup to induce sweating. I toughed it out all night, and unexpectedly... I actually recovered a bit."

Aunt Jiao, wiping away tears of "joy," chimed in, "Yes, yes, it's truly a blessing from our ancestors! Our husband is tough and pulled through! The doctor said we just need to see if the fever goes down. Once it goes down, with proper rest and recuperation, he should be fine."

Seeing that Master Jiao's fever had indeed subsided and he was conscious, although weak, he was no longer in danger of dying, everyone sighed with relief, saying that Master Jiao was a lucky man and that his life was not meant to end, and they said all sorts of words of comfort and congratulations.

The Jiao family members kept their conversation going while secretly breathing a sigh of relief. They had finally passed the first hurdle without any major incident.

For the next three days, Master Jiao strictly followed Yang Guangming's instructions, taking one anti-inflammatory pill each morning and evening.

The medicine was surprisingly effective.

His body temperature never fluctuated again and remained within the normal range. The redness, swelling, and pain at the site of his left leg injury also subsided significantly day by day, and the pus and blood seeping from the gauze gradually decreased and returned to normal color. Although the wound still needed time to heal, the signs of infection were completely under control.

By the afternoon of the third day, with the help of his two sons, Master Jiao was even able to slowly move to the edge of the kang (a heated brick bed) and sit for a while, and even tried to let his injured leg touch the ground slightly.

To the Jiao family, this speed of recovery was nothing short of a miracle!

Their gratitude towards Yang Guangming deepened day by day as Master Jiao's condition improved.

On the third night, after a simple dinner, Master Jiao called his two sons to the kang (a heated brick bed).

He looked at the flickering oil lamp on the table, remained silent for a moment, and then said, "Eldest brother, second brother, my life was saved by Mr. Yang. We can't forget this kindness, and we can't repay it in a short time."

Jiao Da immediately replied, "Father, we know! If anything happens to Mr. Yang's family in the future, we brothers will definitely be the first to rush to their aid!"

Jiao Er nodded emphatically: "That's right! Even if it costs us brothers our lives, we won't flinch!"

Master Jiao waved his hand, his face showing the composure of someone who has experienced the world: "Repaying kindness is not just about saying it, nor does it have to be done when you have to risk your life."

Given our current situation, we don't have anything substantial to offer as thanks. But the sentiment must be there.

His gaze fell on the old, broken earthenware pot in the corner, which was used by the family to save money, but was now completely empty.

He sighed and said, "Before I got injured, didn't I have some spare change to buy some cooking oil for the family? Your mother should have some left. Go to the black market and get even half a pound, no, a pound of streaky pork! Deliver it to Mr. Yang's house tonight."

Hearing this from the side, Aunt Jiao hesitated for a moment: "Husband, that little bit of money... is meant to buy you some nutrition..."

Master Jiao interrupted her, his tone resolute: "My life was saved by others, what's the point of talking about nutrition? Listen to me! This meat must be given away! It's the only thing we can offer right now."

Seeing their father's resolute attitude, Jiao Da and Jiao Er said no more.

Aunt Jiao sighed, silently walked to the kang cabinet, and pulled out a small cloth bag from a hidden corner. Inside were the last few copper coins and a few crumpled gold yuan notes in the house. She counted them and handed them to Jiao Da.

"Go ahead, pick out the better quality meat, don't skimp. Pack it up, put it in your pocket, and don't attract attention. The black market is too dangerous; be careful on the road."

Jiao Da took the money, nodded vigorously, and went out with his younger brother.

As evening fell, the two brothers returned, carrying a small piece of pork belly wrapped in dried lotus leaves. Although it weighed only about a pound, the layers of fat and lean meat were distinct, making it an extremely rare delicacy in those days.

The family members looked at the piece of meat and swallowed hard, but no one felt reluctant to part with it.

Master Jiao urged, "While it's just getting dark and everyone is cooking, so the noise won't be noticeable, hurry up and deliver it to Mr. Yang's house."

Remember, don't mention the medicine in front of Mr. Yang's parents. Just say it's a small token of gratitude for his previous advice.

"Yes, Father." Jiao Da replied, carefully picked up the piece of meat, and together with Jiao Er, went to the east courtyard again.

The Yang family had just finished dinner. Chu Yuanjun was clearing away the dishes, Yang Huai Ren was resting in his chair, and Jing Wan and Jing Yi were looking at an old literacy textbook under the lamp.

Hearing the knock, Yang Guangming got up to open the door.

Upon seeing that it was the Jiao brothers, and especially seeing the piece of meat that Jiao Da was carrying, Yang Guangming was slightly taken aback.

"Brother Jiao, Second Brother Jiao, what's going on here?"

Jiao Da, with a grateful yet somewhat awkward smile on his face, said as his father had instructed:

“Mr. Yang, it’s nothing else. My father is in much better spirits today and can sit up and talk for a while. Thanks to the idea you gave us the day before yesterday, our whole family will remember your kindness.”

This little bit of meat... is a small token of our family's appreciation. Please don't find it offensive, please accept it!

As he spoke, he stuffed the meat into Yang Guangming's hand.

Chu Yuanjun and Yang Huairen also came over upon hearing the noise, and were somewhat surprised to see the scene.

Chu Yuanjun quickly said, "This is absolutely not allowed! Your family is going through a difficult time right now, and Brother Zhenshan needs more nutrition. Take this back quickly and give it to Brother Zhenshan to help him recover!"

Jiao Er waved his hand honestly: "Auntie, please don't refuse. My father specifically instructed that if it weren't for Mr. Yang's advice, he might have... We would feel bad if you didn't accept this small token of our appreciation."

Yang Huai-ren also spoke up, "Brother Zhen-shan, you're too kind. It's only right for neighbors to lend a hand to each other, this meat..."

Looking into the brothers' sincere yet stubborn eyes, Yang Guangming knew they were determined to give him the meat. He understood that this wasn't just gratitude for the "advice," but also a subtle expression of thanks for the medicine.

He hesitated for a moment, then took the piece of meat and said to his parents, "Father, Mother, since it is a token of Master Jiao and Brother Jiao's good intentions, let's accept it. Otherwise, they will feel uneasy."

Then he said to Jiao Da and Jiao Er, "Brother Jiao, Brother Jiao, please wait for me a moment. I have something I want to tell you."

He turned around and handed the meat to his mother, then winked at the Jiao brothers, leading them back to his east wing room.

After closing the door, Jiao Da was about to bow and express his gratitude again when Yang Guangming stopped him.

“Brother Jiao, no need for formalities. How is Master Jiao doing today? Tell me in detail,” Yang Guangming asked with concern.

Mentioning his father's illness, Jiao Da's face immediately lit up, and he lowered his voice excitedly:

"Mr. Yang! It's amazing! Your medicine is truly miraculous! My father's wound is less red and swollen, and he can even sit on the edge of the kang (heated brick bed) for a while this afternoon! He's also much more energetic, and he drank a whole bowl of porridge tonight!"

Jiao Er added, "Yes, Mr. Yang! We...we don't know how to thank you enough! You are a great benefactor to our Jiao family!"

As they spoke, the two brothers became emotional and tried to kneel down and kowtow again.

Yang Guangming quickly pulled them up and said sternly, "Get up! If you keep doing this, I won't dare to interfere in any future problems."

The two brothers managed to stand up straight, but their gratitude was evident in their eyes.

Yang Guangming inquired carefully about the specific condition of Master Jiao's wound, including whether there was redness, swelling, suppuration, and whether the pain had lessened.

After hearing the brothers' description, he felt somewhat relieved. It seemed that the anti-inflammatory drugs had played a key role and the infection was basically under control.

He then took out a small paper packet and handed it to Jiao Da: "This contains eight pills of medicine to clear heat and reduce swelling. Master Jiao's injury hasn't fully healed yet and needs to be consolidated. As usual, take one pill in the morning and one at night until it's finished. During this time, keep the wound clean and avoid getting it wet."

Jiao Da's hands trembled as he accepted the precious medicine packet, his eyes filled with tears, his voice choked with emotion: "Mr. Yang...you...you let us...we..." He was too excited to speak a complete sentence.

Jiao Er was even more direct. He wiped his eyes and said in a deep voice, "Mr. Yang, I will never forget your life-saving grace! From now on, my life belongs to you! If you need anything, I will go through fire and water for you without uttering a sound!"

Yang Guangming patted him on the shoulder, his tone softening: "You're too kind. Taking good care of Master Jiao and helping him recover as soon as possible is the best way to thank me."

He paused, looking at the brothers' faces, which were noticeably thin and haggard from the family tragedy, and felt a pang of pity.

This is undoubtedly adding insult to injury for the Jiao family. With Master Jiao collapsing, they have lost their income and still have to spend money on medicine and nutritional supplements. This piece of meat is probably the limit they can afford.

Thinking of this, Yang Guangming went to the kitchen and scooped out two live fish from the large water tank, each weighing about two pounds.

The fish he caught from the river, those with strong vitality, were temporarily kept in a water tank for easy access.

Back in the bedroom, Yang Guangming handed the fish to Jiao Da, saying, "Here, Brother Jiao, take these two fish back and make some fish soup for Master Jiao. It's very nourishing and good for wound healing."

Jiao Da and Jiao Er were stunned when they saw the two lively, jumping carp.

They came to give a thank-you gift, so why are they taking away such a valuable item?

"No way! Absolutely not!" Jiao Da retreated repeatedly, waving his hands wildly. "Mr. Yang, please keep the fish for yourself! How can we take your things again!"

Jiao Er also said urgently, "Yes, Mr. Yang! We came to thank you, this...this is not right!"

Yang Guangming's face hardened, deliberately showing a hint of displeasure: "What? You're allowed to send gifts to express your feelings, but I'm not allowed to send something to help Master Jiao recover? Take it! Why are you being so polite with me! Master Jiao's health is the most important thing!"

Without saying a word, he shoved the two heavy carp into Jiao Da's hands.

Jiao Da held the two still-wriggling fish, feeling their heavy weight, and then looked at Yang Guangming's unyielding gaze. His nose tingled, and tears almost fell again.

“Mr. Yang… Your kindness is beyond words!” Jiao Da’s voice was hoarse as he bowed deeply. Jiao Er followed suit and bowed as well.

"Go back now, I won't see you off." Yang Guangming waved his hand.

The two brothers thanked him profusely once again, and carrying the two unexpected carp and the packet of life-saving pills, they left the east courtyard with mixed feelings.

Back in her house in the front yard, Aunt Jiao was stunned to see that her two sons had gone out to deliver meat and had even brought back two fresh, large carp.

"Where...where did this come from?" she asked in a low voice.

After Jiao Da recounted what had happened, Jiao Da Niang was filled with emotion. Looking at the two fish, she felt both sorry for Yang Guangming's expense and grateful for his thoughtfulness.

After listening to this, Master Jiao, who was lying on the kang (a heated brick bed), remained silent for a long time, only letting out a long sigh with a complicated expression in his eyes.

He said earnestly to his two sons who were standing guard by the kang (a heated brick bed), "You see? Mr. Yang may be young, but he is very particular about what he does!"

He did us a tremendous favor, not only without expecting anything in return, but also thinking of us in every way, worried that we would be in trouble, and giving us fish and medicine..."

He paused, his tone becoming even more solemn: "This kindness is too heavy! We have nothing to repay you with right now. Remember your father's words, and from now on, treat Mr. Yang's family's affairs as your own!"
They eagerly volunteered for physical labor; they would always remember to send over any good food they could find; and they would keep a close eye on any rumors they heard about Mr. Yang's family.

Let's repay this kindness slowly and steadily through these practical and enduring methods.

They don't want anything from us, so we need to have our own sense of right and wrong!

Jiao Da and Jiao Er nodded heavily, keeping their father's words firmly in mind.

"Father, don't worry! We understand!"

From that day on, the Jiao brothers' attitude towards Yang Guangming's family, in addition to their original politeness, became more genuinely respectful and affectionate.

Whenever they saw heavy chores like fetching water or buying coal in the yard, they would rush to help Yang Guangming's family. Occasionally, when the family cooked something delicious, they would always set aside a portion for the two brothers to deliver to the east courtyard.

Yang Guangming tried to dissuade them several times, but seeing that they still insisted, he let them go.

He knew this was the most direct way for honest people to express their gratitude. This harmonious neighborly relationship also brought him a rare sense of warmth and security in this turbulent era.

After taking the anti-inflammatory medicine given by Yang Guangming on time, Master Jiao Zhenshan's wound healed quickly, and before long he was able to walk slowly in the yard with crutches.

Although he never mentioned the medicine, the gratitude and gentleness in his eyes whenever he saw Yang Guangming were obvious to anyone. (End of Chapter)