Ethan stepped forward and looked at the petrified Hunter. "Didn't you say you could bulldoze anything? Now, show me."
Cold sweat instantly streamed down Hunter's forehead.
He saw tanks, armored vehicles, Humvees, and dozens of armed special forces soldiers. He didn't dare blink, fearing a misinterpretation that could get him shot.
Realizing he had provoked a big shot, Hunter shouted, "Turn off the machines!"
He jumped down and ran to Ethan, pleading, "Sir, I was wrong. I apologize for everything I said. Please forgive me!"
Seeing Hunter beg, Emily couldn't help but taunt, "Go on, bulldoze! Weren't you yelling the loudest?"
Hunter forced a smile, "Yes, ma'am, you're right. I bark like a dog."
Emily blushed and glanced at Ethan, who showed no reaction. She then told Hunter, "You know what to do, right?"
Hunter nodded vigorously, "Yes! All relocation compensations will be calculated at the state standard, no! An additional 20% on top of that!"
"And?" Emily asked smugly.
"We'll make sure every villager agrees, no forced demolitions. If I step out of line again, you can shoot me!" Hunter said, grimacing.
Emily turned to the villagers, "Gentlemen, you heard him. Relocation is a good thing, and we should support it. Mr. Mayor, please handle the compensation talks."
The village head, overjoyed, said, "Thank you so much! Dr. Shaw healed so many for free, and now you've solved this huge problem. You're our heroes!"
The villagers echoed, praising Emily and her capable boyfriend who even brought a tank.
"You bet, Emily! Make sure you let us know when you're getting hitched. We'll all be there to celebrate!"
She blushed and quickly left with Ethan.
On the way back to the clinic, Emily stayed silent, unsure what to say.
Ethan glanced at Cole, "Is this funny?"
Cole's face was contorted, trying not to laugh.
Emily rolled her eyes at Ethan , "You're so overbearing, even wanting to dictate when people can laugh at you."
Emily told him, "Laugh if you want. Holding it in is bad for you!"
Cole shook his head, "No, I don't want to laugh!"
He clamped his mouth shut, fearing Ethan would kick him if he did. His face turned red, eyes bulging from the effort to suppress his laughter.
Back at the clinic, Elder was still operating.
Emily ran over excitedly, "Grandpa, we..."
"Shh!" Elder Shaw motioned for silence.
Emily quieted down, and Ethan sat back in his seat.
After two hours, Elder finished and exhaled deeply.
Emily handed him some water and excitedly recounted what happened.
Elder listened and smiled, and Emily, still thrilled, said, "That was a real tank! I wish I could ride in it!"
He looked at Ethan and walked over. Ethan stood up immediately.
"Young man, do you need my help?" Elder asked softly.
Ethan explained July's illness without holding back.
Elder's eyes glinted with understanding. Without another words, he nodded. "You're right, only Angel's Blood can cure this poison. But there's still risk."
Ethan's gaze sharpened. He bowed slightly, "Please elaborate, doctor."
Elder nodded, "Angel's Blood can detoxify but may harm the patient. If we also use
Sky Beetle Spark, it can enhance the treatment without side effects and even can serve to improve health."
Ethan nodded gravely, knowing Sky Beetle Spark would be hard to find.
But the difficulty couldn't stop him. He was determined to save his daughter at any cost.
Elder said calmly, "I can provide the Angel's Blood. You have two weeks to find Sky Beetle Spark. If you can't, use the Angel's Blood, but there may be side effects."
Ethan nodded, his gaze unwavering, "I'll find it within two weeks."
"Your medical skills are impressive. I'll send Emily with you to verify the Sky Beetle Spark " Elder continued.
Ethan smiled. "I'm counting on it, Emily. I appreciate the help."
Then Elder said, "Now, let's discuss my commission."
Emily was surprised. She knew her grandfather never charged the poor.
Ethan had just helped the village; why mention money now?
Ethan responded respectfully, "I understand the value of Angel's Blood. Name your price, doctor."
Elder shook his head with a smile, "I don't want money. I need you to do something for me."