"Time to head back."
Wang Wu calculated the time. The one-month deadline was approaching, and there was no longer enough time for another round of frenzied tempering.
Besides, he ought to give Wolf Bu'er some face.
Thus, half a day later, he strolled leisurely into that stretch of river valley. Almost the instant he appeared, Wolf Bu'er spotted him. Yet, to Wang Wu's surprise, Wolf Bu'er's gaze was calm, without the slightest anger. It did not even question where he had gone these past days.
It merely sprang nimbly down from the tree, tossed him two Ninth Rank Situational Vitality Pills, then pointed at a small pile of black stones beneath the tree.
"These are this month's supplies, along with compensation for using the Companion Demonic Vine. Remember to collect them this time next month. I won't wait another half-month for you."
"Many thanks!"
Feeling guilty, Wang Wu cupped his paws. He looked around, but saw no sign of Ape Bupuo or Bear Sixteen. Even Niu Xiaocao, Old Ox, and the Little Mountain Pig were nowhere to be found.
"No need to look. No one is spying on you, and no one has nothing better to do than plot against you. Sixteen left the forbidden ground on other business and will return before winter. Bupuo is guarding the entrance to the forbidden ground. As for those friends of yours, they are currently at a splendid stage in their cultivation. Best not disturb them."
"Worth mentioning is that Niu Huanxi's comprehension surpassed both Bupuo's and my expectations. It turns out it was merely lazy, not mediocre."
"That pig is passable as well. With sufficient resources and proper guidance, it will certainly condense an Aperture-Opening Demon Core before autumn. It may even have a chance to master a demon art before winter.