Act Seven, Anger, Truth, The Defector's Sunset Angel
Chun Guo, you asked me yesterday at noon whether I was with you to fulfill my promise to Gao. In fact, at that time, I really did not know... My feelings were very confused; I had never felt this way about a girl before. I would feel jealous for her, inferior because of her, happy because of her, and sad because of her... This feeling is very strange, yet I dare not be certain what kind of emotion it truly is, until just now... This feeling is very strange, yet I dare not be certain what kind of emotion it truly is, until just now...
Beside the hillside, a narrow stream of water weakly flowed through the winding trough, ultimately being obstructed beneath a leg of a white plastic food container and a dirty garbage bag piled within the trough, then quietly disappeared from sight
Cang Kong Lin
"Senior Shi Chuncai, are we really leaving like this?" Ding Xiaomao asked with some concern, "What if he comes to school tomorrow and reveals our secret? There will be many people coming here to compete with us for the 'Wish Fruit'!"
Well ...! ... So terrifying ...! The "Wish Fruit" is just something I said randomly. ... ...! How could such a fruit possibly exist in the world?? Are these suddenly emerging "excellent students" really transformed just by eating wild strawberries from the mountain? ... But how could that be possible? ... ... ... I have eaten wild strawberries from the mountain before, but apart from finding them tasty, I didn't feel any change in myself...
It has now been confirmed that these so-called 'wish fruits' are directly related to the suddenly appearing 'excellent students'. Although I still do not know what these fruits are really about, based on the sensations I experienced after consuming them, it is highly likely that these 'wild strawberries' have undergone mutations due to changes in the soil quality, containing components similar to stimulants. Cang Kong Lin crouched down, carefully observing a small handful of soil, her expression somewhat worried as she softly remarked, 'If this is indeed the case, it would be a serious problem... Perhaps the Firefly Forest will be threatened as a result.' Although I still do not know what these fruits are really about, based on the sensations I experienced after consuming them, it is highly likely that these 'wild strawberries' have undergone mutations due to changes in the soil quality, containing components similar to stimulants. Cang Kong Lin crouched down, carefully observing a small handful of soil, her expression somewhat worried as she softly remarked, 'If this is indeed the case, it would be a serious problem... Perhaps the Firefly Forest will be threatened as a result.'
Cang Kong Lin ! Cang Kong Lin
At last, Cang Konglin slowly raised his head like a person awakened from a deep sleep, his gaze flickering like scattered stars as he looked at Chun Guo
Chun Guo impatiently took out his phone, pressed the call button, and an exaggerated anxious voice came through the earpiece of the phone
"Hmph, rest assured, he is very clever and knows that for every 'Wish Fruit' picked, one less remains. He would not be willing to share this secret with others." Shi Chuncai said with confidence, casting a disdainful glance at Cang Konglin, "Who has eaten the 'Wish Fruit' and not become infatuated with that euphoric feeling? And which person aspiring for success would willingly give up a shortcut that could lead to immediate results in favor of the arduous path of 'one step at a time'? Humanity is just such a creature. It is getting late, and if we stay here too long, we risk being discovered and raising suspicion. Let us return for today."
At this moment, atop the mountain ridge, beneath the massive trunk of the camphor tree—Xiao Nuo—a slender figure emerged from behind the trunk, gently resting one hand on the withered bark of the tree. With a sorrowful expression, the figure gazed at the nearby noisy construction site, where segments of blackened tree trunks had been severed, tears of forbearance shimmering in bright eyes
Cang Konglin turned her head and exchanged a meaningful glance with Chun Guo, who was behind the large cedar tree, then smiled as if everything was clear to her, feigning fatigue with a yawn
"Is your name written on the fruit? On what basis do you claim it as yours?"
The "Firefly Forest" will no longer remain silent
Wow! The main dancer is truly different! When they dance, it is as if they are dancing without a care for their life
is a biological society
Just as Chun Guo was lost in thought, her heel accidentally stepped on a fallen dry branch, producing a sharp and piercing crack!
The reporters stirred up a commotion, and for a moment, the flashlights on the playground were dazzling all around
Chun Guo stood behind the cedar tree, panic-stricken and huddled up, while Shi Cai Chun's eyes searched the ground like searchlights, looking for something.
Chun Guo stood there, trembling all over with clenched fists, tears swirling angrily in his eyes
It is indeed a pity to destroy the forest, but for the safety of the students, this action is still worthwhile
I believe that classmate Chun Guo makes a very valid point, but the current state of this forest is indeed quite dangerous, and the sight of withered branches and decayed leaves is truly unappealing. I think it would be better to destroy it and build a new stadium instead
Principal, Director of Education, may I provide an explanation to the media reporters regarding the matter of 'Wish Fruit'?" Heiqi Liang approached the Principal and the Director of Education, confidently asking.
Heiqi Liang smiled and nodded to the principal, the director of education, and the reporters, then turned to prepare to leave
Yet Chun Guo stood there steadfastly, biting her pale lips tightly, her gaze shaking intensely
Chun Guo clutched her head and shouted anxiously, but suddenly, she fell silent, resting one hand on her chin and sinking into deep thought
She spins, stretches, and waves her long body with abandon. Like an elegant swan queen, she has endured betrayal and deception, experienced self-blame and suffering, yet ultimately reborn from the pain, reclaiming her throne once more
Wow
Hahaha! Finally... the last one! It is mine!
Boom—Boom—Boom—Boom—
How many people actually know the secrets of these fruits? Why have all the fruits been picked?
"Hmph, I wouldn't believe your nonsense, thinking that you wouldn't tell others our secret!" Shi Chuncai said with a cold laugh, pulling a wild raspberry from the pocket of his school uniform. "If you eat this fruit, then you will be considered a member of our 'Wild Fruit Society'! By then, don't be afraid that you will reveal our secret; who knows, you might end up loving these beautiful wild fruits even more than we do! Hahahaha!" By then, don't be afraid that you will reveal our secret; who knows, you might end up loving these beautiful wild fruits even more than we do! Hahahaha!
Could this ... also be the effect of that "wild strawberry" ... ? ...
She shouted, kneeling on the ground with unwavering determination, using her hands to push aside the grass like a hunting dog searching for food, greedily fixating on the ground. Suddenly, her eyes brightened—then, she extended her hand, carefully picking up something from the grass.
Indeed, even if it is not destroyed now, it is only a matter of time before this forest completely dies. At that point, they will still build a new stadium. Rather than waiting, it would be better to build it sooner. This way, at least we can enjoy it before we graduate
You are indeed clever," Shi Chuncai snorted coldly, "Cang Konglin, although you excel in both academics and sports, there are six or seven of us here, and I do not believe we cannot handle you!
A sudden light laugh from Cang Konglin brought Chun Guo back to her senses. Following Cang Konglin's gaze, she looked over and discovered that Hei Qi Liang had emerged from one side of the playground and was walking straight towards the location of the principal and the director of education
The silvery moonlight shyly hid within the cloud house, illuminating the profiles of the two individuals before it completely vanished
Chun Guo stood behind a large cedar tree, observing from a distance as Xie Wanying murmured incomprehensible words while bending down to search for something in the dense grass.
So it is like this... This means that we should now protect the remaining vegetation of Maoshan!
The detestable pretty boy always follows my beloved Chun Guo, and shamelessly squeezes into the spot I saved for her. I don't understand what is so good about him... Perhaps I should also go to the mountain to find the 'Wish Fruit' to eat, maybe then Chun Guo will notice me...
Shasha shasha shasha - shasha shasha shasha
Click!
At this moment, the number of students gathered around became increasingly larger, densely filling more than half of the playground, buzzing like a large swarm of bees!
Huff, huff, huff, huff ... ...
Strange, why is she so happy to find a wild strawberry? ... By the way, speaking of which, it seems she just said on stage something like "eating it" would "not lead to losing" ...? ... Could her improvement in dancing be related to this wild strawberry? That's unbelievable ...? This statement is simply ... ... ... exactly like the lie I told — "wish fruit"!
Hmph! It's definitely not a 'wish fruit'! Hearing Cang Kong Lin's words, Chun Guo shyly pouted, turning her reddening face away, saying, "I think that's simply a 'pervert fruit'!"
What happened?" Chun Guo asked in confusion, taken aback.
As a wave of music began to play, the performance of the dance club commenced. The dancers, adorned in splendid white tulle skirts, gracefully entered from one side of the stage. Upon reaching the front, each of them elegantly extended their arms, resembling a wave that rises across a grassy field when the wind blows, prompting an immediate eruption of enthusiastic applause from the audience!
However, just as she made up her mind to face everything, a figure suddenly jumped down from a tree not far behind her, staring intently at the members of the "Wild Fruit Society" on the hillside
Destroy it! Destroy it! Keeping this toxic forest is not as good as building a new stadium; this would also count as waste utilization
The chaos of the day seems to have been blown away by the night breeze, yet the current Huoyuan Middle School has not regained its former tranquility as a result
Are there really such magical fruits in the world? The information we received states that these 'Wish Fruits' are currently all wild. Will Firefly Academy consider cultivating these fruits artificially?
This fruit is mine
Cang Konglin and Chun Guo struggled to push their way to the front of the crowd, and from a distance, they could see Tsai Kefo standing there with his arms crossed, swaggering alongside the Four Little Swans
Upon seeing Cang Kong Lin, Hei Qi Liang was momentarily taken aback, but soon his face returned to a composed smile
Even now, thinking back to Jiang Tingting's final dance still feels somewhat terrifying. Although it was beautiful, it was as if she were burning her life away, and I couldn't bear to witness the final outcome! In the end, I never expected that she actually..." Chun Guo murmured while chewing on the beef strips in her lunch box.
Cang, Cang Kong Lin ... ... "Chun Guo stood behind Cang Kong Lin, gazing in shock at Cang Kong Lin, who was sorrowfully collapsing against the tree trunk and vomiting loudly, unsure whether she should approach him
The silhouette turned its head and gazed sorrowfully at the camphor tree, reaching out to gently caress the hollow in the trunk of the tree, and sighed
What surprised Chun Guo was that, following Xie Wanying all the way, she unexpectedly arrived at the "Firefly Forest" on the mountaintop
In fact, the point I wish to express is not related to whether a new stadium should be built. I simply feel that the soil in Maoshan has already deteriorated, and as everyone can see, many of the trees on the mountain have turned yellow and even died. From a biological perspective, this will only foster a vicious cycle in the ecological environment. This forest is akin to a patient who has contracted a severe infectious disease and is beyond cure; although it is regrettable, if not addressed promptly, tragedies like the 'Wish Fruit' will only escalate and continue to develop.
Cang Konglin stood quietly with both hands in his pockets, observing everything before him, as if he had long anticipated this outcome. He let out a helpless sigh and murmured to himself
What is going on? What happened to her?
Senior Heiqi Liang, may I ask you a question? As Heiqi Liang passed by Cang Konglin, Cang Konglin suddenly stepped forward to call out to him
However, just as Xie Wanying opened her mouth to swallow the wild strawberry, Jiang Tingting's mouth twisted into a snarl. She jumped up and pounced on Xie Wanying, instinctively pushing her forcefully from behind with both hands
Just as Cang Kong Lin was about to explain to Chun Guo, the phone in Chun Guo's school uniform pocket suddenly started ringing, interrupting her conversation with Cang Kong Lin
"We do not intend to deal with you. We plan to bring you on board." After Shi Chuncai exchanged glances with the people behind him, he turned to coldly gaze at Cang Konglin.
The words of Chun Guo have once again excited the media, who have turned their long guns and short cannons towards him!
Cang Konglin let out a sigh, as if twisting the handle of a rusty fire hydrant, forcibly turning Chun Guo's face towards himself, his pair of bright eyes, as radiant as the morning star, gazing at Chun Guo with utmost seriousness
Upon witnessing this scene, Chun Guo felt a sourness in her heart akin to having eaten an unripe bayberry
The night breeze swept through, causing the camphor tree to sway with its dense layers of branches and leaves, as if responding to the words of the figure, emitting an angry and powerful sound
Senior Heiqi Liang... ? ... Why did he do that just now ... ? By the way, Cang Kong Lin just mentioned that a senior from the Biology Club gave the outstanding members of the "Wild Fruit Club" the "Wish Fruit," and these fruits contain ingredients for making stimulants... ... ... Could it be that...
The auditorium was filled with students who had come to watch the dance club's performance report. When everyone saw the host introduce today's lead dancer, Jiang Tingting, they all expressed the same puzzled murmurs as Tsai Kuo-feng.
Oh no, they have discovered me! If they find out that I just overheard their secret, how will these "excellent students" treat me? But hiding here is not a solution, is it? They will come looking for me sooner or later
It seems that our final moments are approaching... We can only struggle fiercely for our own fate...
Classmate He Qi Liang, I heard from a member of the 'Wild Fruit Society' that the fruits they obtained were not found by themselves on the mountain, but were given to them by a senior from the Biology Society
"I will not back down!" Chun Guo, possessed by a stubborn donkey, stood her ground without fear, looking down on Hei Qiliang. "Senior Hei Qiliang, I have always believed that you would protect the Firefly Forest just like I do, but I cannot believe you would have such thoughts... I absolutely do not agree with what you just said!"
Under the command of Shi Chuncai, the members of the "Wild Fruit Society" hurriedly lifted Xie Wanying from the ground and then dispersed one after another
Upon hearing Heiqi Liang's words, the media listened attentively and fell silent
Upon seeing this figure, Chun Guo's heart resonated with a powerful beat! She widened her eyes, gazing at the strikingly handsome face of Cang Kong Lin under the moonlight, feeling both nervous and excited, her breathing quickening! As for the "Wild Fruit Society," it had been completely cast out of Chun Guo's mind the moment Cang Kong Lin appeared!
Click click click click
Chun Guo looked at Cang Kong Lin in confusion as he gently placed a hand on her face, and then—
Shi Chuncai and his accomplices were taken aback for a moment, then a smug smile appeared at the corners of their mouths
Cang Konglin gasped for breath, looking at Chun Guo with confusion. He saw her large eyes, resembling black grapes, sparkling with shimmering light, fixed on him as if there were endless words to be spoken.
The sound of rustling or flowing water
The sound of rustling!
At this moment, due to the departure of Heiqi Liang, the media reporters once again focused on the principal and the director of education. However, the situation was now completely different, as the reporters praised the outstanding talents cultivated by Firefly Middle School and inquired about the specific construction plans for the new gymnasium. Consequently, the principal and the director of education were as delighted as two Maitreya Buddhas, their cheeks flushed with joy
The audience excitedly clutched their chests, held their breath, and watched in awe and admiration as the woman displayed her exquisite dance skills. As the music came to an end, the dancer "Aurora" stood motionless on stage after completing a leap that seemed to elevate life itself.
Hey, how long are you two going to keep arguing?! A roar echoed, instantly silencing the forest.
Finally, Cang Konglin slowly raised his head like a person awakened from a deep sleep, his gaze flickering like scattered stars as he looked at Chun Guo
Chun Guo gazed thoughtfully at the elegant figure of Hei Qi Liang, his eyes shimmering with contemplation
As soon as Heiqiliang finished speaking, a wave of enthusiastic applause erupted on the playground. The principal and the director of education were so delighted that their mouths stretched wide open as if they had been fitted with a pole, unable to close. Even the media reporters present could not help but put down their equipment to applaud Heiqiliang's remarks
If you are competing with me based on true ability, then if you lose, I have nothing to say! But if it is through such underhanded means... I absolutely refuse to accept it!" Jiang Tingting did not back down, loudly reprimanding Xie Wanying.
We did not come to the mountain to look for the 'Wish Fruit', it is the Biological Society
Shasha
Hearing the footsteps of the person approaching from the hillside, Chun Guo's heart raced in her chest like a startled rabbit.
"It is not a sacrifice of appearance at all; you are simply a big lecher..." Chun Guo pouted and muttered in frustration, but the heavy burden that had been pressing on her heart suddenly vanished as if it had been enchanted by Sun Wukong, and her mood instantly lightened.
Xie Wanying knelt down on the grass, holding up the wild strawberry high in her hand, her expression one of rapture as she smiled. She opened her mouth, as if performing some kind of mysterious ritual, slowly bringing the wild strawberry closer to her mouth; with each inch it approached, her eyes sparkled with increasing joy
Just a few seconds, yet it felt as if a century had passed. Chun Guo widened her eyes, gazing at the face of Cang Kong Lin, which appeared magnified several times, enveloped by an overwhelming sense of disorientation
However, at this moment, Chun Guo had completely lost her desire to appreciate the dance; her thoughts were still immersed in her earlier deductions, and her gaze was slightly swaying in confusion and distress
The students on the playground did not become excited by Chun Guo's enthusiastic speech; on the contrary, they exchanged glances and whispered among themselves.
"Principal, Director, please do not rush. " He Qiliang smiled reassuringly at the principal and the director, then turned to face the media and continued, "Due to the expansion of the city, the vegetation on Maoshan has been damaged, and the soil has deteriorated due to contamination by chemical substances. These so-called 'wish fruits' are actually wild strawberries that have grown in the degraded soil and contain toxic substances. I have conducted research on these wild strawberries and found that they contain toxins similar to stimulants. The so-called 'fulfillment of wishes' is merely a result of students consuming wild strawberries laced with 'stimulants' before exams or competitions, which allows them to perform exceptionally well, thus creating the illusion of 'wishes coming true.' "
By the time the moon rose to its zenith, the crowd at the school had completely dispersed
Support for classmate Chun Guo! Support ... ...
Jiang Tingting, who had already been embroiled in a heated argument with Xie Wanying, was panting in shock, completely oblivious to Xie Wanying's current injuries. Her mind was entirely captivated by the red fruit she had seized before her. "The ace still belongs to me in the end; no one can take it away..."
Chun Guo gazed in astonishment at the figure of Hei Qi Liang disappearing into the crowd, a massive black vortex swirling in her heart, plunging her into a state of bewildering darkness.
How terrible, that guy won again this time... Truly worthy of Hei Qi Liang, he is even more difficult to deal with than I had imagined
Do you remember those "excellent students" who suddenly appeared in our school? Someone reported to the media, claiming that they became excellent students because they ate a type of "wish fruit" found on the mountain! Now, the playground is crowded with reporters, and the principal and the head of education are busy dealing with it! I keep saying, how could those fools suddenly become smart? It's all because they ate something strange! Spring fruit treasure, you must not miss such a big commotion! Hey! I keep saying, how could those fools suddenly become smart? It's all because they ate something strange! Spring fruit treasure, you must not miss such a big commotion! Hey! Hey? Spring fruit treasure, are you listening?
The night wind grew stronger, and the camphor tree vigorously waved its branches in the darkness, as if the falling leaves were drops of emerald tears, drifting away in the night breeze beneath the pitch-black sky
However, just as Cang Konglin was turning to leave, Shi Chuncai quickly took two steps forward and grabbed his arm!
Stop! You cannot leave!
Well ... ... that makes a lot of sense ... ...
Seeing Jiang Tingting's current condition, the emotions of the audience on site shifted from excitement to confusion, as they speculated in bewilderment.
The heavens revolve and the earth turns
Oh my God, how could this happen? Is the dance club cursed...
What a noisy fellow ... . ... A drop of cold sweat, the size of a bean, suddenly fell from the corner of Chun Guo's forehead as he helplessly glanced sideways at Cai Ke Fu
Yet Jiang Tingting, listening to the wave-like cheers, seemed to be asleep, showing no reaction whatsoever
Chun Guo and Cang Kong Lin squeezed into an empty spot reserved by Cai Ke Fu at the center of the storm closest to the playground, their expressions serious as they looked ahead
Jiang Tingting's unfinished words floated around Chun Guo's ear like a soap bubble before bursting, leaving Chun Guo momentarily stunned. She shook her head vigorously, trying to rid herself of the sudden appearance of a person's smiling face in her mind.
Chun Guo widened her eyes in surprise, watching Jiang Tingting fall straight to the ground as if she had exhausted her life, amidst the gasps of the audience, feeling an inexplicable chill run down her scalp
Cang Kong Lin!" Chun Guo was taken aback. From Cang Kong Lin's voice just now, she could be certain that he had returned to normal! She joyfully rushed to Cang Kong Lin's side, and as her tension eased, tears streamed down her face like a flood released from a dam.
Hmph, what newcomer king of the dance club, what quantitative change leads to qualitative change! Xie Wanying, your success is not at all due to your talent and hard work, but rather because of this fruit that can fulfill wishes
Damn it! How could I have been so careless just now?! Cang Kong Lin was forced to eat that wild strawberry just to protect me...! What if something happens to him, I... ... ... I...
Spring Fruit Baby, it is not about what I want, but rather the school is in chaos
Oh dear ... ... Woe is me! How infuriating! Can't you be a bit clearer? Why must you make me guess?
At this moment, in the rear of the campus, the bright and clear yellow lights of the construction team are shining down on a patch of crimson soil.
Ding ding ding ding ding—ding ding ding ding ding
Hehe, it has indeed appeared
clamor clamor
I do not understand at all
Upon hearing the words of Chun Guo, Tchaikovsky was taken aback, his gaze fluctuating violently like a lake disturbed by a tempest!
A gust of night wind blew by, and the rustling sound of the surrounding trees gradually awakened Chun Guo
In a daze, it seemed as though Chun Guo was enveloped by the night, and a warm sensation gently brushed against her lips
Spring Fruit Baby! I am here! I have saved the best spot for you! How did the pretty boy come along too!
Xie Wanying's eyes were filled with bloodshot veins. She leaped up from the grass and pounced on Jiang Tingting, pinning her to the ground. The two outstanding girls from the dance club wrestled wildly on the grass, their hair disheveled like a spider's web, disregarding their dresses being torn by branches and soiled... In their eyes, the bright red fruit that rolled onto the grass was firmly reflected, as if shining with a magical light... In their eyes, the bright red fruit that rolled onto the grass was firmly reflected, as if shining with a magical light...
Well done, Cang Kong Lin. Just now you were pretending to be aloof, but I can see that you have long been drooling over the 'Wish Fruit'! How is it? The taste is quite good, isn't it
The camphor tree stands there, leaning against the sorrowful and frail figure, indifferent to everything below the mountain. In that hollow, which is about the size of a basin, it seems as if the camphor tree has opened its mouth wide, emitting waves of sobbing sounds with the night wind, as if announcing to all things in the world—
Is there anything strange about me here?" Cang Konglin raised one corner of her mouth in a dismissive smile, turned, and walked over to the injured Xie Wanying. She crouched down to check her briefly and let out a gentle sigh of relief, "Fortunately, she just fainted."
It was her! She snatched the 'Wish Fruit' that I picked!" Xie Wanying got up from the ground and pointed at Jiang Tingting's nose, loudly arguing with the leading boy.
Jiang Tingting argued loudly with excitement, but was reprimanded by Shi Chuncai, who turned and glared at her fiercely
Classmate He Qiliang, what are you doing—" Upon hearing He Qiliang's words, both the director of education and the principal turned pale with anxiety
"Cang Kong Lin! Cang Kong Lin, are you alright? What has happened to you?" Seeing Cang Kong Lin's gaze, which was somewhat stiff like that of the people from the 'Wild Fruit Society', Chun Guo's voice was filled with a sob as she shouted loudly.
Then why did the several newly outstanding students we interviewed earlier provide such unrealistic answers when asked to introduce their study methods
The Spring Fruit Baby is right! We oppose the destruction of the forest!
Tchaikovsky! Chun Guo raised his arm and shouted as he waved to Tchaikovsky
Cang Konglin, how are you? Is there anywhere you feel unwell?" Chun Guo was as anxious as a frantic monkey, pacing restlessly beside Cang Konglin, wishing she could raise her hand and strike herself on the head with a heavy blow
Classmate He Qiliang? Ah, it is truly wonderful that you have arrived!" Seeing He Qiliang, the director of education let out a slight sigh of relief, his face, which had been tenser than a drumhead, finally revealing a hint of a smile. He quickly invited He Qiliang to his side, "Dear media friends, this is our school's biology club president, Classmate He Qiliang, who will provide an explanation for the so-called 'Wish Fruit'!"
The last time I went to the dance club, didn't they say that the main dancer was Xie Wanying? How did it change to Jiang Tingting during the formal performance?
However, just as the host hurriedly stepped onto the stage to remind Jiang Tingting, a sudden gasp erupted from the audience
Indeed, these newly outstanding students work very hard in their studies and practice, which is why they achieve such results. It is absolutely not due to any so-called 'wish fruit'; that is simply a fantasy!
I find Cang Konglin's inference about the fruit to be very reasonable, but why do these deteriorated "wild strawberries" pose a threat to the safety of the forest? ... Moreover, he also advised me to come and watch the performance of the dance club, while he went to investigate elsewhere ...
Rustling ... ... Rustling ... ...
Indeed, I feel the same way
After a three-second silence, the auditorium erupted with a deafening round of applause and cheers
"So, did they get sick because they ate wild strawberries?" Chun Guo asked in surprise
Indeed! The 'Wish Fruit' is something that can help us step onto a larger stage. Just by eating one before the competition, we can perform at a level ten times beyond our own energy! However, it's just a report performance at school; does it really matter who takes the lead role? Hand over the fruit!
Tchaikovsky's words sent a chill down Chun Guo's spine, and the ominous premonition spread through her heart like black ink diffusing in water
However, I am also very concerned about another thing that Cang Kong Lin said to me
"Indeed, this is your secret." Suddenly, a hand reached out from the shadow of a nearby tree and grasped Xie Wanying's wrist! Both Xie Wanying and Chun Guo, who was hiding behind the cedar tree, were taken aback, realizing that Jiang Tingting had emerged from the shadows, looking at Xie Wanying with a mocking cold smile, her beautiful eyes shimmering with a chilling coldness
"Cai Ke Fu, if you dare to eat 'Wish Fruit', I will never speak to you again in this lifetime." Hearing Cai Ke Fu's murmurs, Chun Guo turned around and warned him with utmost seriousness
Shi Caichun, Ding Xiaomao, and Li Abing were all stunned and stood there in shock
Boom—Boom—Boom—Boom—
It is impossible, it is impossible for him. Senior He Qiliang is usually so gentle and kind, and he is also the president of the biology club. How could he possibly engage in activities related to the Firefly Forest? Moreover, when we first met, he promised to protect the Firefly Forest with me!
Classmate Cang Kong Lin, I also heard from two girls from Minghe Middle School that there is a top student in their school who resembles you very much, although his name is somewhat different from yours
I also think it would be better to destroy the forest. I saw the appearance of Ding Xiaomao from our class. I originally thought he had become so thin just because he was training hard, but I didn't expect it was actually because he ate poisonous fruit! How terrifying...
Due to excessive excitement, Chun Guo's arm accidentally brushed against the low branch of the cedar tree, producing a crisp sound once again
"How to identify Xie Wanying?" asked Li Abing
Indeed, things are indeed heading in the worst possible direction... Regardless, let us go to the island and take a look! There may still be a turn of events.
Support classmate Chun Guo! Oppose the destruction of the forest
The sky is cold and desolate. After a short while, Shi Caichun took two steps closer to the cold and desolate sky, his tone as indifferent as the icy rocks of winter, "It seems you have already discovered our secret"
Having finished speaking, Hei Qi Liang turned his head and walked away amidst the astonished gazes of his classmates
"What do you want?" Chun Guo replied lazily on purpose
The students on the playground began to discuss among themselves, while Chun Guo anxiously gazed at Hei Qi Liang, waiting for his explanation. Meanwhile, Cang Kong Lin seemed to have foreseen something, as a complex light flickered in his eyes
Hmm! I understand! Chun Guo nodded firmly, put away the lunchbox, quickly jumped up from the ground, and walked briskly towards the school playground with Cang Kong Lin.
It was as if she were chewing gum, as Chun Guo repeatedly savored the words spoken to her by Cang Kong Lin, relishing the gentle, water-like gaze that Cang Kong Lin directed at her.
Why did Senior He Qiliang go there? Does he truly want to help the Firefly Forest, or does he intend to destroy it?
Cang Konglin still did not respond, but his gentle brows seemed to be tightened by some thought, and the corners of his lips, which always displayed a charming smile, began to tremble uncontrollably.
Hahaha! Look at the way you are enjoying yourself! Regardless, welcome to the 'Wild Fruit Society'! Whenever you want to eat 'Wish Fruit', remember to come find me in my class!" After saying this, Shi Chuncai turned around and was about to leave
What is the situation with Jiang Tingting? I heard that the members of the dance club said that she was particularly abnormal on the day of the performance. From before the performance started, she kept jumping as if she had an abundance of energy with no outlet! As a result, she actually fainted on stage after dancing until the end, and when she woke up, she completely forgot how to dance! It was as if she had danced her entire life in that one performance! Now she is undergoing mental treatment
You big fool! How can you still be in the mood to joke around! Just now... just now I thought...
Yet beneath this sorrowful "tears," there brews a torrent of anger
What is the secret behind the realization of the "Wish Fruit"? Principal and Director of Education, could you please explain it to us?
It is said that Xie Wanying fractured the bone in her left leg the day before the official performance, and it was not due to falling down the stairs at all; some say it was caused by Jiang Tingting
Seeing this scene, Chun Guo, who was hiding behind the cedar tree, couldn't help but shiver
Is Jiang Tingting doing well? Is she too excited? Why is she still standing there motionless?
You ... ...
Principal, some time ago you applied for the construction of the 'New Stadium'. After the media exposed that the ecological environment of Maoshan was damaged, leading to an animal riot at Firefly Middle School, you did not cease the application for the 'New Stadium'. Now, the students of Firefly Middle School are once again facing misfortune due to the destruction of the Maoshan ecological environment. Will the school continue to insist on the construction of the 'New Stadium'? Is there not the slightest compassion for the flora and fauna on the mountain?
On the afternoon of the second day, Cai Kefo sat in the seats of the school auditorium with his arms crossed and a furrowed brow, watching the members of the school dance club take the stage one by one as introduced by the host, murmuring in confusion to himself
At this moment, Chun Guo was sitting side by side with Cai Ke Fu, staring blankly ahead. However, what appeared before her eyes was not the stage, but the scene from last night with Cang Kong Lin in the woods
Cang Konglin extended a hand, gently lifting Chun Guo's chin with his long, jade-like fingers, gazing deeply at her with eyes as clear and captivating as a flowing stream
With intense pain, she stretched her body and leaped, dancing on her toes like an impassioned fawn
A bulldozer is parked beside a bumpy hillside that has been excavated next to the playground, swinging its massive arm and devouring the soil covered with lush green grass on the slope. A heavy roller moves back and forth over the earth, continuously emitting a deafening roar
Indeed! Moreover, we have learned that several newly promoted outstanding students have fallen ill, and the symptoms of their illnesses are quite similar. How do you explain this?
The poster previously released by the dance club clearly stated that the lead dancer was Xie Wanying, but during the official performance, it was suddenly changed to Jiang Tingting! What exactly is going on
Yes, yes! Principal! Director of Education! Could you please say a few words?
The members of "Wild Fruit Society" exchanged anxious glances with one another, contemplating methods to "resolve" Cang Konglin.
This is not the worst of it, " Cang Kong Lin sighed softly, turning to look at the sky beyond the railing, " It's not just Jiang Tingting who has encountered problems; yesterday Ding Xiaomao was also hospitalized due to illness, and today both Shi Chuncai and Li Abing did not come to school either. Their class monitor said they all took sick leave.
The debate among the principal, the director of education, and the media surged like waves in a stormy sea, rising in wave after wave of intensity
"Huh? Did you just hear what Cai Nongfu said?" Upon hearing Cang Konglin's response, Chun Guo looked at him in surprise
"Chun Guo, is that you?!" Upon seeing the suddenly appearing Chun Guo, the composed Hei Qi Liang was somewhat surprised and slightly widened his eyes
"Alright." Heiqi Liang nodded with a smile, turning around to calmly gaze at the anxious yet expectant faces of the reporters armed with long guns and short cannons before him. "Ladies and gentlemen, the so-called 'Wish Fruit' does not exist. However, the matter of 'Wish Fruit' indeed occurred at Firefly Academy."
During the noon break, Chun Guo and Cang Kong Lin exchanged a "V" sign before the last class of the morning ended. As soon as the class bell rang, they skillfully and tacitly executed the "Chun Cang Meeting Plan B," evading all prying eyes and secretly made their way to the rooftop to enjoy the bento that Chun Guo had brought.
Having spoken, Xie Wanying raised the fruit in her hand high before her eyes, her gaze shimmering with a greedy and excited light
"Hmm. Understood." Cang Kong Lin carefully placed Xie Wanying on a relatively flat patch of grass, then raised her head to look at the group of members from the 'Wild Fruit Society' standing together. Slowly, she stood up, a mocking smile curling at the corners of her mouth, "What do you plan to do about me?"
"Even if you are angry, I will not regret what I just did, because the kiss just now was the true feeling I wanted to express from the depths of my heart. Chun Guo, you understand what I mean, right?"
"I heard that all those who ate the 'Wish Fruit' fell ill. The Spring Fruit Baby is preventing me from eating the 'Wish Fruit' out of concern for me, right? Wuwuwuwu! I am truly touched!"
"Boss, boss! It's Jiang Tingting!"
Chun Guo slightly furrowed her brows and widened her eyes to look at the object in Xie Wanying's hand—surprisingly, it was a red wild strawberry
The lead dancers of the dance club, Xie Wanying and Jiang Tingting, have consecutively encountered accidents, causing a commotion at Firefly High School that lasted for two full days without settling down. Whenever class is dismissed or school is over, discussions about these two lead dancers can be heard everywhere in the school.
"Hehe, Tchaikovsky is shouting so loudly on the other end of the phone that I can't possibly not hear him!" Cang Kong Lin smiled and winked at Chun Guo, then stood up and strode towards the rooftop door. "Chun Guo, let's go. The Firefly Forest holds our beautiful memories and our friends. No matter what, we must strive to protect it."
At this moment, the twisted fate of "Aurora" seems to perfectly align with Jiang Tingting's dance, as if the "Aurora" from a fairy tale has already arrived
Tsai Kefu's ears suddenly perked up, shaking twice like a dog's ears that had heard its master's command, and then he turned his head with a joyful expression towards the direction of Chun Guo
Regarding this matter
"So that's how it is... But what does this have to do with the safety of the Firefly Forest?" Chun Guo put down the lunchbox in her hand, asking with confusion and concern.
"Cang Kong Lin?" Shi Cai Chun was first taken aback upon seeing Cang Kong Lin, followed by a surge of anger and jealousy, "Why is it you?"
She let out a long breath and turned her head to see Cang Konglin, who had been standing motionless beside her, and hurriedly ran towards him
"Classmate Cang Kong Lin, please speak."
"Director of Education, may I ask if those outstanding students you praised in the media recently truly achieved their good results solely by consuming those miraculous fruits?"
"No, it is not that we lack compassion." Heiji Liang echoed the principal's words, confidently addressing the media's doubts. "As a student of Firefly High School, I initially did not support the school's decision to destroy the forest to build a new stadium. However, after the incident with the 'Wish Fruit,' I changed my original intention."
Cang Konglin quickly gave a glance to Chun Guo, signaling her to remain silent
"Principal, could it be that Yinghuo Middle School is intentionally making students eat these strange fruits in order to improve the school's admission rate and reputation?"
"Spring Fruit Baby! It is I! Tchaikovsky!"
Take her to the infirmary and say that she fell while practicing dance
Knock knock knock knock! Knock knock knock knock!
Kakakaka! Kakakaka!
What is going on? Looking at the situation before her, Chun Guo widened her eyes in confusion and quietly spoke to herself
Suddenly, it seemed as if she realized something, and she extended her hand to forcefully push the pale sky behind her!
Chun Guo seemed to sense something, turning her head to look at Cang Kong Lin. However, at the moment their gazes met, Chun Guo's face instantly flushed red, and she withdrew her gaze like a startled little rabbit, lowering her head and helplessly staring at the ground.
"It’s gone! How is that possible?! It disappeared so quickly!"
"No way!" Xie Wanying's lips curled into a cold smile, "What 'Wild Fruit Society'? Enough of this, Shi Chuncai, you all just want the fruit in my hands! You talk about protecting the secret of the 'Wish Fruit' from more people knowing, and about fairly distributing the fruit... Hmph, now that the 'Wish Fruit' on the mountain has suddenly decreased so much, I bet you all secretly came up to the mountain to pick it! I won't be a fool and go alone to abide by that nonsensical 'Wild Fruit Society' agreement!"
Is there anything else?" Cang Kong Lin asked in confusion as she turned her head.
Spinning freely, with toes that nearly split, swiftly carving perfect arcs in the air.
Upon hearing He Qiliang's words, both the media and the students nodded in agreement. The principal and the director exchanged a joyful glance, greatly relieved, their faces regaining the usual dignified smiles. Meanwhile, the students on the playground quickly spread He Qiliang's insights, their gazes becoming flickering and uncertain.
A scream echoed through the mountains, as Xie Wanying lost her balance and rolled down the slope, crashing heavily against a protruding rock
"Everyone... how could this happen..." Hearing the discussions of her classmates, Chun Guo felt as if her heart had been brutally trampled by someone, and a look of despair appeared in her eyes
By the way, speaking of which, yesterday in the woods, Jiang Tingting seemed to mention the Biology Club... regarding the lie about the "Wish Fruit." I did indeed tell Senior Heiqi Liang from the Biology Club about it, but what is the actual connection between these so-called "Wish Fruits" and the Biology Club
"Cang Konglin, you have always been an excellent student, you have no idea how we, the underperforming students, feel!" Upon hearing Cang Konglin's words, Shi Chuncai became agitated, clenching his fists and trembling as he shouted loudly, "Just because we are the underperforming students of the school, everyone looks at us with disdain! The teachers never even glance at us, and the seats assigned to us are always in the last few rows of the classroom! We are mocked and neglected at school! We don't even have the opportunity to showcase our strengths... Even as underperforming students, we deserve respect! We have dignity too!"
The principal and the director of education, in order to demonstrate the school's concern for the safety of the students, allowed the construction team to enter the school in the afternoon to begin the destruction of the land where wild strawberries were growing
"If I do not heed your words, are you all going to resort to violence to coerce me?" Cang Kong Lin said, sneering as she cast a glance at the other members of the 'Wild Fruit Society' behind Shi Chuncai, who were eagerly cracking their knuckles.
The playground has now become a chaotic scene, as media outlets that received reports of the mysterious "Wish Fruit" have flocked to the playground of Firefly Middle School, eager to personally witness the true nature of the "Wish Fruit" at the entrance to the path leading up the mountain.
"I am sorry, Chun Guo," Hei Qi Liang said sympathetically as he looked at Chun Guo, softly explaining, "Although I believe what you said makes a lot of sense, we must prioritize the safety of our classmates. It is indeed a pity to destroy this forest, so I hope you can join everyone in writing a passage to mourn this forest, and let the world remember the tragedy of the last piece of forest on Mao Mountain, calling for everyone to work together to protect nature and safeguard our surrounding ecological environment"
Meanwhile, Cang Kong Lin beside him maintained a smile filled with intriguing interest, making it difficult for others to grasp his thoughts
Cang Kong Lin took a deep breath, raised her head, and looked at the sky with a smile that was not quite a smile.
Shasha shasha shasha - shasha shasha shasha -
It seemed that she did not see the "things" she had expected. Xie Wanying widened her red eyes and shouted angrily.
Cang Kong Lin lowered her head like a robot that had been powered off, remaining silent.
"Cherry sister, what is wrong with you? I have often seen rain in your eyes lately..."
Shh—don't make noise
"Chun Guo, why is it you again?!" The director of education, seeing that the media was distracted by Chun Guo, anxiously squeezed and pushed him, wishing to find a crack to shove him underground. "Don't come out to cause trouble, quickly return to the classroom! Why are you staring at me?! Do you want to be punished?"
"Join the gang? Heh, I have no interest in participating in such a deceitful little group." Cang Kong Lin smiled and shook her head, "I am not interested in the good results obtained through such means."
Heiqi Liang raised his head and gazed deeply at the vast sky, offering a faint smile.
The deep blue velvet curtain, which belongs solely to the night, seems to begin to tremble violently, as the entire slumbering universe transforms into a vast vortex, with the two lovers appearing to be the eye of the storm, seemingly calm yet surging with hidden turbulence.
Tchaikovsky pouted in dissatisfaction, casting a cold sideways glance at Cang Kong Lin as he surveyed him up and down.
"Human beings are like this, always prioritizing their own interests... In the face of interests, the so-called right and wrong become insignificant."
"Cang Kong Lin!" Upon witnessing Cang Kong Lin's actions, Chun Guo exclaimed in surprise within her heart
The feelings that Cang Kong Lin has for me... I know... yet it seems I do not know... that kiss was gentle, intoxicating like wine... but what does it truly represent? Affection? Liking? Or something else... sigh, really... why does that guy always slip away like a loach whenever it comes to the crucial points, leaving one unsure of what he is truly thinking!
Chun Guo followed the surprised gazes of Xie Wanying and Jiang Tingting, and discovered a boy walking out of the woods with several classmates. All those following him were the recently emerged "top students" in the school, including Ding Xiaomao and Li Abing, whom she had interviewed.
"So you all came to look for such strange seeds in order to regain your dignity? Rather than spending so much time and effort searching for wild fruits on the mountain, it would be better to spend more time doing exercises!" Cang Kong Lin said with a cold smile, shrugging his shoulders
Shut up
Seeing that Cang Kong Lin had not responded, Chun Guo was so anxious that she was about to cry! She tightly grasped Cang Kong Lin's shoulders and shook him vigorously.
"This... this..." Upon hearing the reporter's pressing questions, the principal stammered, his face turning red, unsure of how to respond
"Who is it?" Shi Caichun was taken aback and nervously turned his head to look towards the position of the cedar tree
"I will not give it to you!"
"Well, that's about it." Cang Kong Lin said with a heavy gaze as he nodded at Chun Guo, "A couple of days ago, I took samples of the wild fruits to a friend who conducts biological research. In the analysis report he completed, it stated that those wild strawberries were contaminated by chemicals in the soil, resulting in the production of a toxin in the fruit. This toxin can stimulate human emotions, similar to the principle of stimulants, and consuming this fruit can easily lead to dependency. If consumed in excess, it can have significant adverse effects on the human body"
I do not agree with this viewpoint! Chun Guo could no longer endure it, and a surge of anger shot up like a rocket, striking her crown and causing her to completely lose her reason for a moment. Before she even realized it, she had already shouted and rushed out of the crowd, standing directly opposite Hei Qi Liang
In order to prevent these frenzied media reporters, the principal and the director of education personally stepped in to block the entrance from the school playground to the mountaintop, earnestly persuading them with heartfelt words
Countless golden stars were swirling frantically around, plunging into the core of this perilous vortex, and ultimately succumbing to it
Furthermore, I learned about the legend of the 'Wish Fruit' from my classmate Chun Guo...
Many trees have died... All along, we have silently endured all the greed and faults of humanity, yet what we ultimately receive is not gratitude but destruction
"Hmph, you must have said the same thing to Xie Wanying, right?" Chun Guo huffed angrily, turning her face away, which was as red as a wild strawberry.
"Jiang Tingting! Have you not had enough after suppressing me for such a long time?!" Xie Wanying raised her head, glaring at Jiang Tingting in exasperation
"The vast sky is chilling... Although it is still somewhat vague, I seem to have a general sense of why the contaminated wild strawberries would bring disaster to the Firefly Forest..."
"Indeed, I believe what you say; these fruits have become toxic due to the impression of pollution. However, it is precisely us, the people who study, work, and live on the mountain, who are polluting Maoshan! Every day, how much wastewater and smoke are discharged from the newly built factories and residential areas on the mountain, and how much garbage does our school dump? Maoshan silently bears all of this. Yet now, it has reached a critical state, and our thoughts are to put it to death instead of considering how to save it! What difference is there between such behavior and that of the ungrateful individuals whom everyone usually despises?"
"Cherry Sister, you really are quite the jealous one; my teeth are almost rotting from your sourness." Cang Kong Lin was taken aback for a moment, a helpless yet joyful smile spreading across her face, "Don't you understand? I did this to learn the secrets of the 'Outstanding Students' and the 'Wild Fruit Society' from Xie Wanying. Although I feel a bit sorry for Xie Wanying... Cherry Sister, I have sacrificed my appearance to help you fulfill your wish!"
Cang Kong Lin was taken aback, his smile froze in place.
"Even if you are angry, I will not regret what I just did, because the kiss just now was the true feeling I wanted to express from the depths of my heart. Chun Guo, you understand what I mean, right"
"Did you really think I was done for?" Cang Kong Lin turned around and leaned against the tree trunk, smiling as he looked at Chun Guo. "Regardless, that 'wild strawberry' is referred to as the 'Fruit of Wishes' by them. If it were truly life-threatening, wouldn't those from the 'Wild Fruit Society' have died dozens of times already? However, the feeling I had after eating that fruit was truly strange; I felt so excited that I couldn't control myself! Is this the power of the 'Fruit of Wishes'?"
Forget it, I have no interest in the so-called 'wish fruit', and I won't mention it to anyone. If there's nothing else, I will take my leave now
"Classmate Heiqiliang, please explain to the media that there is no such thing as 'wish fruit' in the world!" The principal, already exasperated and distressed, wiped the sweat from his forehead while murmuring complaints to Heiqiliang.
"How could there possibly be something like 'wish fruit' in the world? It must be someone playing a prank to send you such an email!"
"Pfft! Hahaha!" Upon hearing Chun Guo's words, Cang Xuan Lin couldn't help but burst into laughter, reaching out to affectionately ruffle Chun Guo's hair. "I actually think that it is truly a 'wish fruit.' At the very least, it has allowed me to prove my innermost thoughts to you. If it weren't for it, perhaps I still wouldn't be able to confront my own heart to this day..."
Upon hearing Cang Konglin's words, Hei Qi Liang slightly lowered his head, his eyes hidden in the shadow of his bangs, and a cold smile faintly appeared at the corner of his mouth
When the footsteps of everyone had completely faded among the trees, the heart that had been lodged in Chun Guo's throat finally settled down
"Hoo... Hoo... Hoo... Hoo..." After a while, Cang Konglin finally regained his senses, his body feeling weak as he leaned on the tree trunk, breathing heavily, "Chun Guo... I'm fine"
She spoke, her hands trembling as she raised the wild strawberry, laughing maniacally under the cold moonlight before taking a bite. The vibrant juice instantly splattered between her lips and tongue, resembling blood
Shi Chuncai and the others from the "Wild Fruit Society" looked again towards the direction of the big cedar tree. Just as they were about to rush behind the tree to investigate, Cang Konglin suddenly snatched the wild fruit from Shi Chuncai's hand, smiled, and then tossed it into his mouth. In an instant, a burst of sweet and sour juice splattered all over, followed by a slight intoxication that surged straight to the crown of his head
Oh dear, how could this be possible?! We would absolutely never do such a thing!
"Cang Kong Lin! Cang Kong Lin! Could you please say something?!"
"Alright, alright, stop arguing!" The boy impatiently frowned and waved his hand, interrupting the ongoing debate between Xie Wanying and Jiang Tingting. "When you joined the 'Wild Fruit Society,' didn't you all sign an agreement? The time and quantity of each person's 'Wish Fruit' are to be uniformly allocated by the society! So, hand that fruit over to me"
This is terrible! I just heard them describe the effects of those 'wild strawberries', and something feels off about it! Moreover, those who have eaten the 'wild strawberries' all appear dazed, frail, and have faint purple circles under their eyes, looking as if they have taken drugs... If Cang Kong Lin eats this 'wild strawberry', will he also become like them?
Under the witness of the Morning Star, in the dense woods, the figures of Chun Niao and Cang Kong Lin gently overlapped, their feather-soft lips lightly touching each other
Cang Konglin was completely unprepared; he staggered a few steps as he turned with the force of Chun Guo, and then his body heavily collided with a fallen tree trunk, immediately producing a hollow retching sound from his throat
The voice of Cang Kong Lin gradually softened, like the night breeze gently brushing against the cheek of Chun Guo, making the surrounding air somewhat ambiguous and indistinct
Chun Guo looked at Cang Kong Lin with a mix of excitement and shyness, her gaze flickering intensely. Her cheeks felt as if they were submerged in boiling water, radiating heat, while her mind repeatedly speculated on Cang Kong Lin's words, only to deny the conclusions she had drawn time and again. As a result, all her thoughts became tangled like a ball of yarn, intertwined in Chun Guo's mind
It cannot... it cannot be his...
Shasha shasha shasha - shasha shasha shasha -
Tchaikovsky and the Four Little Swans jumped out, raising their fists and loudly cheering for the Spring Fruit. However, after only two shouts, the low pressure and silence that enveloped the playground washed over them like a wave of cold seawater, instantly extinguishing their enthusiasm and courage.