Natural Disasters Strikes: I stockpiled like crazy! novel Chapter 212

Inside the small, cramped tent, a middle-aged man stood in front of Tao'er. He wore a faded grey Tang suit, its fabric patched in several places.

"Uncle Meng, someone is looking for you!" Tao'er spoke, his voice carrying a hint of urgency.

Elder Meng was slightly hunched over due to an old condition. His silver hair was neatly combed, though a few strands fell out of place. His clear, gentle eyes held a quiet depth that drew people to him unconsciously.

'I want you to find someone named Meng Li. He is a doctor... If you find him, inform me, and I'll reward you eight times what you expect,' the lady's voice echoed in Tao'er's mind as he recalled her request.

Tao'er described Nanzhi's appearance before adding, "That person is looking for you. But don't worry. I didn't tell her that I know you, Uncle Meng!"

Though the promise of a handsome reward was tempting, something that could provide for them for a long time, Tao'er knew it was wrong to sell Uncle Meng's whereabouts. The little boy was grateful for the care Uncle Meng had shown him and his father. That kindness could not be outweighed by material wealth.

Tao'er wiped the sweat from his father's forehead. Compared to yesterday, his father looked much better now. The color had returned to his face, and it wouldn't be long before he was healthy again.

In a world where medicine was more precious than food, Uncle Meng had spared no effort in helping to treat his father, providing him with water and care.

Water-based awakeners had all been recruited by the Tyrant Boss, who monopolized the water supply in the entire base. If one wanted pure water, they had to scrape together every last coin they could find. Those without the fortune to afford it had to make do with water from a small lake, which was also sold in refillable containers.

Even after boiling it, many unfortunate people with sensitive stomachs suffered from diarrhea and vomiting. However, people couldn't afford to be picky because, in the end, water was a fundamental necessity—one that humans could not live without.

But if one had the strength to face off against the terrifying monsters outside the base, finding pre-apocalyptic water supplies wouldn't be a problem.

Uncle Meng, while only known as a doctor in this poor slum, was secretly a water-based awakener. He kept his ability hidden, wary of being exploited. He had lived a low-key life in the slums, only Tao'er and his father aware of his ability.

They had arrived at Longmen Base together, and Uncle Meng had always been there to help them. Tao'er's father had often traded food and medicinal herbs for water from Uncle Meng until he fell ill. Now, it was up to Tao'er to look after both the elders. Uncle Meng usually earned his living by treating patients in this small tent and selling the medicine he made.

But most of his patients were poor, so the treatment fees were minimal. He couldn't even sell his medicine in the trade hall because the stall fees were prohibitively expensive. And, due to age and weak strength, Uncle Meng was often taken advantage of.

Thinking about this, Tao'er declared, "Elder Meng, once I grow taller and older, I will take care of you and my father! You don't need to work yourself to the bone making medicine all night!"

A chuckle escaped Elder Meng's lips.

"Don't worry about me. Xiao Tao should enjoy his childhood first." Elder Meng gave the boy a warm pat on his head. At the same time, he searched his memory for the person Tao'er had mentioned, but no one came to mind.

He then brought a plastic cup of water for Tao'er, as he did every day.

"No need, Elder Meng! It's my treat today," Tao'er said, grinning.

He tiptoed, leaned in close, and whispered in Elder Meng's ear, before lifting the hem of his loose shirt to show the contents of his salary that day.

When Tao'er unwrapped the package, both he and Elder Meng's eyes widened in surprise.

Elder Meng hastily zipped up the entrance of the tent and spoke in a quiet voice, "Boy, where did you get this?"

"I told you! I guided a team today. They are a generous group, and they were the ones looking for you!"

As Elder Meng stepped closer to Tao'er, only then did he notice the boy's strong stench.

"If you wish to set up a stall inside the temple, it'll cost you 4 Tier 1 rank spars for a day," a man behind the counter said. _{freeweɓnøvel.com}