Meng Yan's Transformation

Chapter 602 Nezha Conquers the Dragon King

Zhang Defu stood frozen in place. His previously tense shoulders unconsciously relaxed. He said nothing, but the sharp resentment had quietly vanished, replaced by a slight embarrassment and relief at being seen. He lowered his head and strode into the kitchen. The impulse to defy the world had disappeared without a trace.

"What did Zhan Mengyan ask you? What did you say to her?"

Seeing Zhan Mengyan's departing figure, Zhang Xiaojuan hurriedly leaned close to Zhang Defu's ear and whispered a question.

"Hmph! I didn't say anything."

As Zhang Defu spoke, he glared at Zhang Xiaojuan, touched his ear, turned around and left. He was determined to ignore Zhang Xiaojuan and maintain this cold war until summer vacation.

"You're a smart kid, you know what to say and what not to say. Here, this is a gift from your sister as a reward for you."

As Zhang Xiaojuan spoke, she took out a comic book titled "Nezha Conquers the Dragon King" from her pocket.

Zhang Defu raised his head and saw his sister Zhang Xiaojuan standing in front of him with a smile. He instinctively turned his face away and prepared to go straight back to the east room. At this moment, Zhang Xiaojuan called him back and stuffed a thin comic book into his hand.

The pages were slightly yellowed, exuding the unique scent of old paper, a blend of time and the present. On the cover, a dashing young boy, riding on his Wind Fire Wheels, wearing a Universe Ring, and wielding a Fire-Tipped Spear, was battling amidst churning waves—"Nezha Conquers the Dragon King," the classic comic book that Zhang Defu had longed for, having seen it at a classmate's house but never possessing.

In an instant, all his stubborn determination and pent-up grievances vanished. The rebellious cries of Nezha, "My fate is in my own hands, not in the heavens," instantly filled Zhang Defu's mind. He could hardly believe it, his eyes wide as he looked at his sister Zhang Xiaojuan for confirmation.

Upon receiving the approving smile, immense joy exploded in his chest like fireworks. Zhang Defu cried out "Wow!" and hugged the comic book tightly to his chest, jumping high in the air—once, twice, three times… as if he himself had embarked on a fiery journey. This vividly illustrated and captivating comic book was more than just a gift; it was like his sister's silent reconciliation and understanding. This sudden joy instantly overwhelmed all unhappiness, and resentment dissipated like morning mist. He eagerly turned the pages, and the lively illustrations and simple stationery immediately transported Zhang Defu to that mythical world. In his eyes, this yellowed comic book was far more valuable than its price; it was an eternal treasure, and the childlike fun and warmth it brought would remain in his memory for a long time to come.

"Defu, let's eat first, and then we can watch it, okay?"

Zhang Xiaojuan's tone softened, no longer accusing and restrictive.

Zhang Defu closed the comic book and grinned, "Sister, I'll read it with you after dinner."

The comic book became the key to reconciliation, instantly brightening my mood.

Zhan Mengyan sat on the edge of the kang (a heated brick bed) in the main room and saw Zhang Defu walking towards her—his anger, which had been raging like a storm just moments before, had vanished without a trace.

Zhang Defu's face softened from its tense expression, and the light in his eyes seemed to be touched by a spring breeze. Even the corners of his mouth couldn't help but turn up, forming a bright smile. This sudden change stunned Zhan Mengyan.

"Sister Mengyan, look! 'Nezha Conquers the Dragon King.' You just gave it to me."

As Zhang Defu spoke, he proudly waved the comic book in his hand in front of Zhan Mengyan.

"Defu, didn't we agree to watch it after dinner?"

As Zhang Xiaojuan spoke, she looked at Zhang Defu.

Zhang Defu stuck out his tongue and put the comic book aside.