HLM – Chapter 872 Early Bird

Standing on the viewing platform, Wang Bo looked into the distance. The sun was setting, but the sky wasn’t the usual orange-red. Instead, it was a beautiful azure blue, with the sun hanging on the horizon like a giant egg yolk embedded on the surface of the sea.

White clouds drifted slowly across the sky. A few tired birds flew by, calling as they passed. In the distance, a pair of black cranes glided gracefully with their two young. Their eldest had already left the parents long ago and was living independently.

Beside him stood a Christmas tree—this kind of Christmas tree had nothing to do with Christmas; it was a naturally growing tree, lush with foliage. Its leaves carried a deep red hue and were very popular.

Two large frill-necked lizards lay sprawled on the branches, lazily letting their tails hang down, looking somewhat frightening.

But Wang Bo knew frill-necked lizards had gentle temperaments. Compared to those venomous lizards in Australia, these big fellows could be called gentle giants.

A herd of horses galloped across the grassland. As they ran around a hill, dozens of fine steeds surged forward under the lead of the Black Horse King. Marlon, riding “Tuhao Jin,” came from behind and waved at Wang Bo with a smile.

Wang Bo found it strange—why would Tuhao Jin willingly run at the back of the herd? With that beast’s unruly personality, it should be running in front.

Just then, a wild horse fell behind. Seeing something unknown, it broke away from the herd and ran north.

With a snap of Marlon’s whip, Tuhao Jin immediately turned and sprinted toward the stray horse. After catching up, it kicked and bit at it, forcing the stray horse back into the herd.

In the distance, a few elk with large antlers appeared. More deer were hidden deep within the tall grasses. Standing high up, Wang Bo could see even farther—he spotted some rock sheep and white yaks as well.

After coming down from the viewing platform, he asked Marlon, “Did you notice that some livestock from the ranch have shown up here?”

Marlon nodded. “I noticed long ago. But they look comfortable here and didn’t wander off wildly, so I didn’t worry about it.”

Hearing that, Wang Bo didn’t pursue the matter. He guessed these animals were drawn by the Beast Field’s Heart. Sometimes they would leave the ranch and come into the beast fields, and that was fine.

He was very satisfied with the viewing platform, but one thing puzzled him. “Where did these big tires come from?”

Dayan laughed. “I found them in Oak City. Only eighty bucks each. They’re scrapped tires taken off junked cars. But since the grassland is soft, as long as the rims are intact, they work perfectly.”

Wang Bo nodded. The viewing platform looked great. They could replicate this design.

Dayan said, “Actually, it’s not finished yet. These support frames can still be carved with patterns. We also need to apply paint for sun, water, and corrosion protection. Once fully completed, it’ll look even better.”

“Also, according to my plan, different viewing platforms will use different designs. This one only needs one.”

Wang Bo said, “Isn’t that too much trouble?”

Dayan smiled easily. “Not at all. The key is to make the designs attractive to tourists and townsfolk. Only then is it perfect.”

Wang Bo patted his shoulder. “Great job, man. Bringing you to this town is definitely the best decision I made this year.”

The big Serbian man grinned widely. Wang Bo then asked with concern, “How’s your younger son doing lately? I know he started school—has he gotten used to it?”

Dayan beamed. “Very well. Of course, his English isn’t great yet. But it’s a great school. I’ve heard of the ACG Group. Back when I immigrated, I never imagined he would get to study there.”

“I have high hopes for that kid. I’m letting him train in basketball seriously. I’m even trying to hire a basketball coach to polish his skills.”

Hearing that, Dayan’s grin nearly reached behind his ears.

One more week to Christmas. Wang Bo planned to complete the women’s breast screening work before the holiday, to avoid delays afterward.

There were too many women in town, and Dr. Yi alone couldn’t handle the workload—so they needed extra help.

Charlie eagerly said, “Wang, let me go, let me go! I’ve got nothing to do these days. I’m bored stiff. Let me get busy!”

Bowen was just as eager. “Boss, let me go! I’m the deputy mayor—I should represent the town and provide the most considerate service for our people!”

Kidd’s eyes sparkled. “I’ll help too! I studied medicine back in school. I have great ideas about imaging.”

Wang Bo looked at this group of men. “Even conscripts during puberty are more composed than you lot. Please, guys—do you even know what this activity is?”

“Breast examinations for young ladies,” Kidd snickered.

Hani couldn’t help but shake his head. “Idiots. All of you.”

Wang Bo told him, “Inspector, explain it to them.”

“This screening event is large-scale and completely free, yes. But the participants are women—not young girls—aged 45 to 69. They must have no symptoms of breast cancer, must not have had a mammogram in the past 12 months, and must not be pregnant. Only those who meet all these criteria can participate.”

Kidd said in shock, “Then what about the young girls? Breast cancer is terrible—shouldn’t they get checked too?”

Indeed, breast cancer was frightening. According to New Zealand medical statistics from 1997–2012, out of every 10,000 women, the number of breast cancer cases was 18 for those under 50, 54 for ages 50–59, and 63 for ages 60–69. The mortality rate was between 20–30%, making it one of the most dangerous threats to modern women’s health.

Regular breast cancer screening could reduce mortality rates. Early screening reduced the death risk by 20% for those under 50, by 30% for ages 50–65, and by nearly half for ages 65–69.

Hani explained, “So why should young girls participate? It doesn’t really concern them.”

The men instantly lost interest and packed up their things to leave the meeting room.

Then, Wang Bo solemnly wrote his name on the assistance list. Hani also put on a formal expression and added his name.

The two exchanged glances and smiled—looking a bit like partners in crime.

On Thursday, December 22, the screening event began.

Wang Bo took Eva to draw a number. The hospital had become busy early that morning. Posters were displayed at the entrance, introducing information about breast cancer. Many women were lined up for their examinations.

Entering the hospital, Wang Bo spotted Hani bustling about. He said in surprise, “You’re here really early.”

The old inspector put on an upright expression. “The early bird gets the worm. Heh heh!”