Forest Ranger, starting from Picking Up a Lynx Girl

They had dinner at the village cadres' dormitory.

In addition to Xiaozhai Village's cadre, cadres from several other villages also hurried over.

A crowd set up two coal stoves in the courtyard and boiled two pots of random stuff—like roosters with ribs and ha'er fish.

Apart from the village cadres, Chen Ying, and Old Gao, there were also a few young men from the village who were very enthusiastic about their work.

Nearly twenty people were present; the scene was comparable to the Lunar New Year festivities.

Cadre Xiao Qin's reserve also disappeared as the meal progressed.

"Our joint report from the four villages has entered the second review, and if the assessment passes, we can start construction after next spring."

His face was a bit flushed, his eyes were bright, and his companions wore similar expressions of anticipation.

When they talked about the transformation of the four villages, they did it with smiles.

Outsiders might not understand, but only local fellows like Chen Ying and Yin Li knew how much effort it took to persuade the old-fashioned villagers to change.

"Speaking of which, we all need to thank Brother Ying and Brother Li. It's because of your examples that we've been able to push our work forward so smoothly."

"That's right, the most stubborn old men and women in our village cooperated without a second word after hearing how much Brother Ying from Xiaozhai Village approved of the changes. I couldn't believe it went so smoothly at the time. I had prepared ten drafts of ten-thousand words each, and, well..."

Although the young female cadre spoke with a tone of regret, her broad smile betrayed how satisfied she actually felt.

"You're praising us so much, I'm about to die of embarrassment."

Chen Ying glanced at Yin Li, whose smile seemed a bit forced, and exchanged a knowing look with Xiao Qin.

"You're boasting about Brother Ying, but let me sing the praises of our Brother Li. If it weren't for Brother Li's help, I don't know how many detours I'd have taken or how much trouble I'd have caused."

Cadre Xiao Qin's words were definitely sincere.

Holding a cup of tea, he went over to Yin Li, "Brother Li, even though you're younger than me, you're still my brother. I used to be conceited, thinking I could do any job in the world if I just put my mind to it. Reality gave me a good slap and showed me what I was really capable of."

"I almost thought I was going to slink back in disgrace, but it was Brother Li who analyzed things for me and gave me pointers and assistance with my work outside of his own."

Yin Li clenched his fingers tightly.

"Brother Li, I know the issue with Uncle Yin has had a significant impact on you, but we all believe in you. A person might hide their true nature for a while, but not forever. Also, I may still need to improve my work capabilities, but my ability to gauge people isn't bad."

"Brother Li, believe in yourself, and also in the friends around you. There are many who harbor ill will, but even more who will support you."

After Chen Ying fed a plate of raw chicken to the Little Spotted Forest Weasel hiding under the table, he looked up at Yin Li.

"What are you getting all sentimental about? Uncle Yin may have made mistakes, but when you get down to it, he didn't actually do anything explicitly illegal, and he was manipulated by criminals without his knowledge. He's been punished and paid his fines, what are you worrying about so much for?"

The Little Spotted Forest Weasel darted out from under the table and in a flash, climbed onto Yin Li's shoulder, grabbing the tips of his slightly overlong hair, squeaking as if to echo Chen Ying's words.

"If you feel awkward, then just change jobs. The meaning behind working in a reserve is the same everywhere; it won't hinder you from following your original aspirations."

"I was just talking to Little Sen a few days ago, saying his skills have improved a lot now and he can manage on his own. If I have to go away temporarily, I no longer have to worry about no one taking care of things at home."

This was practically a clear suggestion for him to accept the director's recommendation to start working somewhere else.

Everyone else, whether they knew the details or not, all had the expression "If Brother Li thinks it's good, we'll definitely support you."

Eventually, Yin Li couldn't hold back any longer and let out a laugh, wiping his face.

"Okay, I understand what you all mean. You've all come to work in these mountains for a cause, leaving your homes behind. For me, it's just about changing workplaces. I'll tell the director that I agree to transfer to the newly established protection center. Are you guys happy now?"

Yin Li gave Chen Ying's shoulder a light punch. They understood each other as brothers do—words were unnecessary.

The lively gathering continued until two in the morning before dispersing.

The cadres from the other villages couldn't travel back at night, so they found a couple of spare dormitories to squeeze into for a temporary stay.

With the Little Spotted Forest Weasel perched on his shoulder, Chen Ying walked shoulder to shoulder with Yin Li towards his house.

"The director asked me to tell you not to feel burdened. Ever since the planning of this protection area started, he's been thinking of recommending you to go there. No matter how good the atmosphere at Jiamu Gully Protection Station is, it's still just a station. If you want to advance further, there's no other way but to put in the time."

Chen Ying glanced at Yin Li, whose face was partially hidden in the collar of his coat and couldn't see his expression clearly.

"Do you remember the aspirations we set when we first started at the rescue station? Now there's a chance for you to realize your dreams, and you're hesitating?"

"It's not that. I have no regrets about my choice. It's just that I…I've given it a lot of thought; my dad's situation today is partly my responsibility too."

Yin Li walked in silence for a few steps before suddenly looking up, "What do you think about bringing my dad along? He used to hunt with my grandfather and uncles, plant medicinal herbs, and rear livestock. Even if he goes there, working as a keeper might be good, right?"

"If he leaves, life will be easier for my mom and my sister. Plus, without the familiar surroundings, even if he wanted to cause trouble, he wouldn't find anyone to engage with him."

The more he thought about it, the more feasible it seemed to Yin Li, and he decided to see the director tomorrow to see if there was a way to bring his father along.

It didn't have to be a permanent position; the main thing was that he could keep an eye on the stubborn old man.

With that in mind, Yin Li accepted the idea as swiftly as if he'd been on a plane.

"Thanks, Brother Ying, for organizing this for me."

Chen Ying shook his head with a smile, "It wasn't me who arranged it. It was Cadre Xiao Qin and the others who were worried about you. They thought knocking on your door with awkward consolation would only make you feel worse."

Releasing the stifled breath in his chest, Yin Li stood up straighter again.

"If I go, you'll be losing a great helper here. Don't hide and cry when you regret it."

"Get out. You'll be the one hiding and crying."

Who hasn't had moments in their childhood when emotions were uncontrollable?

A bit annoyed and embarrassed, Chen Ying forcefully changed the subject.

"By the way, the newly established protection area isn't too far from River Source. I'll give you my junior sister's contact information, and you can ask for her assistance if need be."

The two discussed the potential issues and response strategies for the new protection area.

Unfortunately, both of them were only half-knowledgeable on the subject, and their conversation only concluded with one practical phrase.

"Let's just take it one step at a time!"