Chapter 42: Sea Without Light 42
“While following Fang Zhi, did you encounter any other suspicious individuals?” Xie Gankqing emphasized his tone.
Kui Xin recalled, “No… everyone seemed normal, going about their own business.”
Xie Gankqing explained, “If you’ve been reading the forum, you should have seen the analyses these days. Remover 233 is in Tonglin City. Fang Zhi was killed by Remover 233 yesterday morning, close to noon. He was killed three hours after he parted ways with you. That time gap isn’t too long, nor too short. We were wondering if you might have crossed paths with Remover 233 while tailing Fang Zhi, but just didn’t notice.”
Kui Xin shuddered, goosebumps rising on her arms.
She rubbed her arms and stammered, “N-no, it can’t be that coincidental, right? What if Remover 233 found out my identity just like you did… What if he also has hacking skills…”
“The probability is low, but it’s not impossible.” The bespectacled Yu Qiwen stated rigorously, “I think you need to be more vigilant during this period to avoid being targeted.”
Kui Xin’s face turned pale.
Yuan Lu comforted, “Don’t be nervous. If you encounter any suspicious individuals, seek help from those around you, or go to the police. You can tell us, and we will do our best to help you.”
“However, our main range of activity isn’t in Tonglin City, so it’ll be hard for us to rush over if you need our help.” Yu Qiwen confessed, “Given the strength of Remover 233, it’s difficult for anyone targeted by him to escape. The police have limited capability, and right now, we can only pray that he doesn’t know about your existence.”
Kui Xin looked like she was about to cry.
Yuan Lu shot an annoyed glance at Yu Qiwen, mouthing silently, “If you can’t talk, then shut your mouth. You’ve frightened the little sister.”
Yu Qiwen looked at Yuan Lu, completely confused about what he had done wrong.
“Relax, I believe Remover 233 won’t take action for a while. His general location has been exposed, and continuous killings would reveal his exact position even more.” Xie Gankqing analyzed, “I think he might enter a dormant state next.”
“Hopefully… hopefully that’s the case.” Kui Xin’s eyes were watery.
It was then that Yu Qiwen finally remembered the social skills he had learned, that when others are afraid or sad, one should offer appropriate comfort.
So, he smiled at Kui Xin and said, “Don’t worry, if Remover 233 has a functioning brain, he wouldn’t target ordinary players. If he attacks, it would only be against players with extraordinary abilities; there’s no profit in killing ordinary players. It’s not a worthwhile venture… Hey, you haven’t awakened, right?”
Kui Xin looked at Yu Qiwen in horror, shaking her head like a rattle.
“Good that you’re not awakened.” Yu Qiwen said with a smile.
Xie Gankqing and Yuan Lu exchanged strange glances.
Yuan Lu coughed lightly, “It is indeed a bit dangerous for you to live alone right now… We’re planning to set up a base in the provincial capital. You seem to be headed there for university, right? You can come often afterwards.”
Kui Xin hesitated and said, “Let’s talk about that another time.”
She neither clearly refused nor accepted, her indecisive attitude evident.
“Actually, we’re alumni.” Yu Qiwen said enthusiastically, “I’ll be a student there too when school starts.”
Kui Xin was taken aback, “…Unexpected.”
“We’ll be classmates. I’m studying computer science. What’s your major… what was it again?” Yu Qiwen asked.
“Artificial intelligence. It has good job prospects, and it’s a newly launched program with less competition… I just barely got the score needed for it and I’m quite interested in this major.” Kui Xin spoke more about her major, seemingly lowering her guard a bit because of Yu Qiwen’s alumni status.
Yuan Lu was satisfied to see the malicious marks above Kui Xin’s head lighten slightly again.
She felt completely reassured; their trio had originally agreed to signal if they discovered that Kui Xin had malicious intentions and was a suspicious identity, but now it seemed like she was just an ordinary girl. By drawing closer appropriately, they wouldn’t incur her dislike, as even the colors of the malicious marks were gradually lightening.
However, Yuan Lu didn’t know that Kui Xin’s real thoughts were somewhat similar to hers at this moment.
This hacker trio was indeed composed of ordinary people; the secondary preparations could be temporarily canceled. With Yu Qiwen becoming her classmate, he would be right under her watchful eyes, unable to stir up any trouble. The current atmosphere was too tense, so as long as they could keep them stable, there was no need for action. Observing from the shadows for a while longer was wise.
“You’ve asked me a lot of questions, but I haven’t asked anything from you all.” Kui Xin changed the subject.
“Go ahead, ask.” Xie Gankqing responded.
“Are you the son of the richest man here?” Kui Xin asked, “You’re really wealthy, and the richest person in our area is also surnamed Xie, looking quite similar to you.”
“I am indeed.” Xie Gankqing readily admitted.
Kui Xin said, “When I asked you all for your names over the phone, the hacker said Yu Qiwen instead of his own name, but mentioned yours.”
“When we were together, I was the one responding to your message.” Xie Gankqing explained.
There were other reasons he didn’t mention. His family has extensive connections, so exposing one name wouldn’t have too great an impact on him. Worst case, he’d just need more bodyguards when going out. Yu Qiwen would be attending school soon; if his name came out during the call, it could bring some trouble if Kui Xin decided to report to the police.
Kui Xin clicked her tongue, “How old are you this year, twenty-eight? I thought you were busy managing the family business and wouldn’t have time to play games… Could it be that you’re a game enthusiast who specifically applied for the beta test of Crimson Soil and just so happened to be selected?”
Xie Gankqing: “…My nephew isn’t of age yet. He wanted to play the game, so he quietly used my ID.”
“Then after receiving the beta test invitation, he couldn’t resist his nephew’s pleas and signed the game contract, thinking lending the game to his little nephew wouldn’t be a big deal. Who would have known…” Yuan Lu shrugged, “I’m cousins with Xie Gankqing. Yu Qiwen is a kid from my family’s old friends; the three of us grew up together.”
“Really envious that you met by chance.” Kui Xin said gloomily, “You can support each other in the Second World, right? That’s so much better than going into the game alone.”
“We can support each other too.” Yuan Lu said seriously, “All players should support each other. We can establish an equal cooperative relationship, unite in the First World to resist the Remover, and share information to survive in the Second World.”
Kui Xin struggled for a few seconds, “I… I’ll think about it.”
“I believe you came to meet us with a similar purpose. I sincerely hope you consider it seriously.” Xie Gankqing said, “We have resources, connections; we’re an excellent team in all aspects.”
“Mm, I will think it over.” Kui Xin still didn’t agree immediately.
“I still have questions to ask…” She curiously looked at Yu Qiwen, “Aren’t you afraid of being discovered by the relevant departments when you hack into systems like surveillance? You’d be sentenced if caught!”
“I’m a bit scared, but these things need to be done. Although I possess hacking skills that surpass an entire era, there are always various geniuses in this world. There are hackers more talented than me, and being traced back while intruding is quite possible.” Yu Qiwen said, “So I’m cautious, I don’t touch what I shouldn’t touch, and I only look at what I must see and investigate.”
“So you’re a hacker who understands restraint?” Kui Xin asked.
“You could say that.” Yu Qiwen replied, “Technology is technology, tools are tools, and people are people. People need to use technology and tools correctly; one cannot recklessly harm others with technology and tools, otherwise, how am I different from a criminal?”
“Alright… I have a slightly better impression of you now, just a little bit.” Kui Xin mumbled.
As midday approached, Kui Xin took out her mobile phone to check the time.
“I have something to do in the afternoon; I need to head home.” She opened her social app and said, “Let’s exchange formal contact details.”
After adding each other’s details, Yuan Lu asked, “Do you want to grab a meal together? Sister treats.”
“No, thanks.” Kui Xin declined.
“You need a computer for your AI major, right? If you need to buy one, I can recommend some configurations. I’m very knowledgeable about this!” Yu Qiwen said enthusiastically.
“I consulted on the school’s forum; seniors said that if you need a computer, the teachers will take students to the computer lab…” Kui Xin replied.
“Buying one is more convenient overall; the transaction is valid, and the remuneration is what you deserve.” Yuan Lu insisted, “We won’t scam you; you have to trust us. Working part-time is tiring, and with your great grades, putting more time into studying will certainly lead to a better path.”
Kui Xin scanned the hacker trio with suspicion, saying, “I will buy a computer when the time comes, and I will use my money when it’s needed.”
The four of them descended the stairs from the badminton court.
On a rainy day, there were fewer people in the mall. The hacker trio took the elevator down as Kui Xin followed to not appear overly adept at avoiding surveillance.
Ding! The elevator stopped at the third floor.
A girl with heavy bags squeezed into the elevator.
“Xin Xin Jie!” Su Rong exclaimed happily, “Are you also here to buy something?”
Su Rong wore a mask, a baseball cap on her head, and had a pair of glasses on.
“Rong Rong?” Kui Xin was taken aback, “No, I’m here to meet friends.”
Su Rong glanced at the people in the elevator— a man in his twenties, a beautiful lady in a green dress, and a bespectacled boy clearly in their age range.
“Hello, everyone!” Su Rong said politely.
The hacker trio nodded politely in response.
What a coincidence.
In the small elevator, there were five people, and all five were players.
“Where’s your mother?” Kui Xin tried to change the subject.
“My mom is shopping upstairs. I just wanted to drop off the things I bought in the car first.” Su Rong quietly complained, “I originally didn’t want to come out, but she insisted that I was studying too hard and pulled me out to look around…”
The elevator stopped on the first floor. Su Rong hurriedly ran out with her packages, saying cheerfully, “Goodbye, Xin Xin Jie! The stuff is too heavy, I have to hurry! Come over for dinner sometime!”
Kui Xin and the hacker trio also exited the elevator.
“I’ll leave now; goodbye.” Kui Xin bid farewell, holding up her umbrella and turning toward the subway entrance.
“Don’t forget to keep in touch; let us know if there’s anything.” Yuan Lu waved.
“Let’s go too.” Yu Qiwen said.
The three of them walked to the parking lot, opened the car doors, and got in.
“Today was somewhat fruitful.” Xie Gankqing pondered while in the driver’s seat.
“The gain was confirming that Kui Xin isn’t a Remover.” Yuan Lu stretched, “She hasn’t completely let her guard down around us; let’s give her some time.”
“But we still haven’t confirmed the identity of Remover 233. He seems to have evaporated without leaving a trace.” Yu Qiwen meticulously fastened his seatbelt.
Yuan Lu said, “Even if we confirm, what can we do? Can we defeat him? We should pray that we don’t encounter him; resisting a Remover will certainly be a long-term battle.”
“Lulu makes a valid point.” Xie Gankqing turned the key, starting the engine, “Let’s go home.”
“If we really become an organized group in the future, it’ll be necessary to set up a fixed base, a safe gathering place.” Yu Qiwen said, “There probably won’t be many opportunities for offline meetings, but we still need to be prepared.”
“I’ll handle that.” Xie Gankqing pressed the gas pedal.
As the vehicle drove, Yuan Lu suddenly said, “Do you think that girl Kui Xin might have extraordinary abilities?”
Yu Qiwen replied, “Hmm? She denied it!”
“Could be.” Xie Gankqing remarked, “I noticed she was too hasty and panicked in her denial.”
“I didn’t pick up on that…” Yu Qiwen said.
“Hmph, an inexperienced girl, still a bit naive.” Yuan Lu stated.
Xie Gankqing commented, “You were so expressive with your feelings when you were her age, much more than her.”
Yuan Lu responded, “…Oh.”
She said, “She knows how to conceal things; she has some wits.”
“Some people endure the harshness of society at a young age, while others only experience it after graduating college at twenty-two.” Xie Gankqing observed, “Mindsets are different; you can see the difference in the gazes of these two types of people.”
“Indeed.” Yuan Lu sighed, “That poor girl, if she has the remuneration we provide, she won’t need to work so hard.”
……
Days passed without incident.
Kui Xin thought, “How nice, another peaceful and beautiful day… I enjoy the lack of events.”
For the past few days, Kui Xin’s life was very simple. She woke up early for morning exercises, ate breakfast at a nearby stall after exercising, then went to the local library to study. In the afternoon, she cooked at home and tutored Su Rong, returning home to continue studying in the evening.
She went to bed at ten P.M. and woke up at six A.M., leading a very regular life, her routine being much more normal than in the Second World.
Today was August 2nd.
The day to return to the game.
Ku Xin woke up in the morning and, as per her routine, browsed the forum.
The death list hadn’t updated, and the official pinned posts hadn’t changed, but the forum was filled with an anxious atmosphere, with players’ posts evidently increasing, and prayer posts taking up the majority. After living a comfortable life in the First World, everyone was reluctant to return to the Second World.
Kui Xin felt calm; her life rhythm hadn’t been disrupted in the slightest.
She got up, washed up, did her morning exercises, went to study, and then tutored Su Rong.
During the class, Su Rong was clearly restless, becoming distracted while writing problems. She had dark circles under her eyes and looked considerably worn out, as if she hadn’t slept all night.
“Did you stay up late?” Kui Xin unexpectedly asked when Su Rong seemed distracted again.
“Ah? Um… I… I couldn’t sleep last night; I had insomnia.” Su Rong scratched her unkempt hair. She usually paid much attention to her appearance, but today, her hair wasn’t properly styled, and she seemed lethargic.
Kui Xin said, “Let’s not study for now; you should rest for a bit. We’ll make up for this lesson next weekend; your break is over. You’re not in a good mental state, so there’s no point in studying when you can’t focus anyway.”
“Okay.” Su Rong rested her chin on her hand, saying listlessly, “Sigh, life is hard; I regret my choices.”
“Everyone has their struggles.” Kui Xin circled the mistakes on the test paper she handed to Su Rong, “Do you regret taking the art student route?”
Su Rong took a while to process and then nodded.
Kui Xin said, “Regretting doesn’t help; you can only work twice as hard to make up for it.”
“Xin Xin Jie, we’re about the same age, yet you handle things far more steadily than I do. My mom praised you a couple of days ago, telling me to learn more from you.” Su Rong said, “Sigh, sometimes I feel like I’m looking at my mom when I look at you… Of course, I’m not saying you look like her. I mean, you feel… uh, as reliable and stable as an elder. I’ve never seen someone my age like you before.”
Kui Xin thought for a moment, “If you live alone for a few years and leave your parents to handle everything yourself, you’ll soon become like me.”
Su Rong’s mother had subtly mentioned her family situation to her, saying it wasn’t very good.
She cleverly skipped over that topic and pulled Kui Xin into the living room, stuffing her hands with a large bag of snacks, “Let’s not study; let’s watch TV and eat snacks. Want to watch a movie?”
“I’ll watch anything.” Kui Xin replied while munching a chip.
She rarely ate snacks; to maintain her nutritional needs, she only bought must-have food, and snacks weren’t something she bought even once every few months. She never indulged in things like milk tea either. The most she drank milk tea was when she worked at a milk tea shop because the boss claimed that employees could drink it freely, and while working with classmates, they would conveniently make her a cup, making her suspect her blood sugar levels were too high.
The leisurely afternoon passed quickly, and night fell.
As Kui Xin walked home, she stepped on the dying sunset’s afterglow.
After hastily finishing a bit of dinner, she pulled out a physical copy of “Criminal Scene Investigation” and began to grapple with the material.
The difference between the first and second world’s criminal investigation materials was quite significant; however, some of the most basic theoretical elements had certain similarities. Learning was always better than not learning, and whatever she didn’t pick up now, she could continue in the Second World.
Time flew by, and when her clock chimed, it was already eleven-thirty at night.
In half an hour, she would enter the game.
Kui Xin stood up to stretch her limbs and focused her mind.
In the Second World, she was in a critical state, being crazily attacked by the Scythe Demon.
After spending seven days in the First World, her mindset couldn’t revert back to what it was seven days ago, yet despite that, she still had to recall that sense of combat, keep her focus, and ensure her muscles and nerves were tense to quickly adapt to battle, preventing her from accidentally losing her head to the Scythe Demon’s blades.
Kui Xin turned off all the lights in her room.
The second world’s version of her was patrolling the port where the environment was exceedingly dark, but at this moment, her bedroom was lit. Suddenly transitioning from bright to dark would make it hard for her to adjust; the darkness would help her avoid the transition from light to dark.
Kui Xin set a timer on her phone again, this time she set it for 23:59:58, two seconds away from midnight, allowing enough reaction time.
Standing by the window, she closed her eyes and recalled the dangerous battles she had experienced, tightening her spirit to the utmost.
Once her state was about right, she opened her eyes and gazed at the nightscape of Tonglin City.
“Time to return to Hei Hai City…” Kui Xin murmured in her heart.
Before returning to Hei Hai City, she wanted to have one last look at the neon lights of her familiar hometown.
23:59:58.
The phone resting by her side vibrated to life; the alarm rang. Simultaneously, Kui Xin’s heartbeat quickened, but only for an instant, as the pitch-black darkness swallowed her!!!
In her breath, she caught the smell of blood and the briny scent of the sea wind. She heard the sound of the wind, the howling of tentacles striking, the shouts of her teammates Lan Lan and Jiang Ming, and the urgent voice of their captain Shu Xuyao from the communicator.
She felt a sharp pain and an itchy sensation from a wound in her abdomen, the injury rapidly healing under the process of flesh regrowth, the pain jolting her nerves awake.
After returning to this body, Kui Xin rolled to the side, narrowly escaping the Scythe Demon’s curved blade.
“Clang—” Its curved bone blade struck the container behind Kui Xin, embedding itself slightly inside.
Ignoring the injury on her abdomen, Kui Xin drew a weapon from her thigh and slashed upwards.
With a swish sound, the Scythe Demon’s soft tentacle snapped in response, and the curved bone blade was firmly lodged in the container, letting out a piercing wail. Its blue-green blood splattered out, and in the spots where the greenish blood landed, white smoke began to rise, as if it were a strong acid with corrosive properties.
The splatter of its blood also hit Kui Xin’s face and body, corroding holes in her combat suit and making her skin steam.
She had no time to concern herself with that; seizing the opportunity, she reloaded her weapon and coldly aimed at the Scythe Demon, shooting at it.
