After gathering enough branches and dry wood, Xiao Chen tied them tightly with strips of tree bark—two bundles instead of one, to make them sturdier. This was no difficult task for him; he had spent almost every day collecting firewood for Lu Feng.The bundles rested easily on his shoulders, light in his hands—perhaps because he was already used to the work.But after only five steps, a pack of more than a dozen wolves appeared, blocking his way. Their eyes glinted sharply, and saliva dripped onto the ground, as if they had just found a fresh prey.Even though he had plenty of experience living in the forest, Xiao Chen still felt fear. But running was not an option—he knew well he would be caught instantly. Most of the time, the only animals he encountered while gathering firewood were wild dogs, and even then, never more than one or two.He set the bundle down, picked up two branches that were thick and heavy enough to swing as weapons."If you want to eat me, come on then!" he shout