A Divine Farmer

Chapter 140 - A Gift That Doesn't Cost Money

Zhang Xiaoloong inwardly chuckled. The Four Appearances Divine Orchid was exceedingly rare, possibly even beyond the reach of past emperors. It was akin to a royal offering.

“Brother, how do you intend to market this beverage?” Wang Zongming's eyes gleamed with anticipation as he surveyed the remaining drinks. Despite knowing there were plenty left, his desire to indulge seemed insatiable, as if fearing it might vanish. Yet, he cautioned, “This flavor is exceptional, almost too good to be true. To succeed commercially, you'd have to outshine all competitors to the point of obliteration. Otherwise, they might resort to drastic measures, even hiring assassins.”

Zhang Xiaoloong remained nonchalant. Taking a sip, he too was taken aback. Addressing the directors, he queried, “Director Xu, how much of the ingredients did you utilize?”

“I used them all, without sparing any…” Xu Ming's realization dawned, his embarrassment evident. “These ingredients are quite costly, aren't they?”

Zhang Xiaoloong smiled wryly. He had exhausted all ten or so pieces of Four Appearances Divine Orchid. No wonder the flavor was so extraordinary. Even diluted a hundredfold, it surpassed ordinary beverages.

“It's nothing. I failed to mention the dosage. Remember, for every 100 kilograms, only one petal of the flower should be used. Each color imparts a distinct flavor, crucial for our signature concoction, the Four Great Vajras,” Zhang Xiaoloong explained with a grin.

“Understood, I'll make sure to follow that meticulously in the future.” Xu Ming promptly agreed, then hesitated. “What about these? Should we dilute them?”

A petal per 100 kilograms was minimal, but he had used over a dozen, allowing for hundreds of dilutions.

“No need,” Chen Yaru interjected, having just sampled the drink. She found it heavenly, far superior to consuming the Four Appearances Divine Orchid alone. This blend of four flower petals was exquisite. “This marks Tengloong's inaugural batch. Let's preserve it as a treasure.”

“Excellent idea.” Wang Zongming cheered, then jokingly asked, “As the former boss, can I get some special treatment to retain some?”

Chuckles filled the room at Wang Zongming's sheepish request.

“President Zhang, Manager Chen, while preserving is fine, remember these beverages have a limited shelf life. Such delicacies shouldn't go to waste!” Xu Ming reminded earnestly.

“Indeed, but our drinks differ from others. They have a lifespan similar to liquor. With proper storage techniques, they could become prized possessions,” Zhang Xiaoloong assured. “However, there's no need to hoard. Each of us will take home one kilogram to savor, and Manager Chen will manage the rest collectively.”

Xu Ming and the factory workers rejoiced at the prospect.

Merely from the aroma, anticipation soared. The prospect of receiving a kilogram for free elicited great joy.

This delicacy might never resurface, a rarity in the world. Missing out meant losing it forever. Only the initial factory entrants would enjoy such treatment.

Observing Zhang Xiaoloong generously treating his acquaintances to drinks, Wang Zongming couldn't help but marvel at the fickleness of human nature. He playfully tugged Zhang Xiaoloong's arm, remarking, “You owe me several kilograms at least. If not, I'll pester you endlessly…”

With the tempest settled and Wang Zongming departed, Zhang Xiaoloong prepared to discuss the beverage matter with Lee Donghua, only to find Lee Donghua beating him to the punch.

“Xiaoloong, I've heard about your beverage venture. No roughing you up this time, eh? My Donghua mart gets first dibs on your product, or I'll kick up a fuss,” Lee Donghua teased.

“Naturally. Without a brand, my drink is just another unknown. I was planning to seek Uncle Lee's guidance to secure shelf space. Otherwise, I'd be lost in the market,” Zhang Xiaoloong jested in return.

“Very well. Trust isn't an issue between us. When can we expect production? Uncle Lee will handle everything, and who knows, your drinks might just revitalize my mart's sales,” Lee Donghua quipped before adding a note of caution, “Quality testing is essential. It's not a lack of trust, just protocol. Also, Yaru knows the drill.”

Zhang Xiaoloong assured, “Uncle Lee, worry not. Our products won't disappoint.”

“Speaking of which, no need for me to fetch you since you're in Qingyang City,” Lee Donghua chuckled. “Tomorrow marks my father's birthday bash. I'd like you to join. He's keen to see you and, about that orchid you gifted him… He's treating it like a prized possession, even talking about international competitions.”

“Visiting Grandpa Li is only right. Yaru and I will gladly accompany you tomorrow,” Zhang Xiaoloong agreed readily.

The Four Appearances Divine Orchid held immense value in others' hands due to its rarity.

Yet, Zhang Xiaoloong pondered silently, would revealing the abundance of perfect Four Appearances Divine Orchids irk the old man?

Though mere musings, he refrained from voicing them.

“It's settled. Remember, don't bring gifts. The old man insists. Your orchid suffices. Besides, we're not lacking in anything. Your presence is what counts,” Lee Donghua advised, reminiscent of parental counsel to migrant offspring.

Zhang Xiaoloong felt a deep connection. Their rapport transcended mere business; it was familial warmth.

Meeting Chen Yaru's eyes, they shared a thought. Zhang Xiaoloong replied, “While your family isn't in need, I bring something invaluable. You and the old man will cherish it.”

“Oh?” Lee Donghua, initially wary of extravagant gifts, now curious about Zhang Xiaoloong's offering, chuckled. “Your gifts never disappoint, but your words intrigue me. If it's bought, take it back. If it's created… Well, I expect even better!”