Chapter 228
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In the depths of the myriad of information on the Other Side, in the dim history rarely touched by anyone, “Sorrow” quietly lurked.
Its form was like gray-black remnants of creatures, sticking together and slowly flowing within the crevices of old memories. Qi Xin liked it here; it had always been a safe place for countless years.
Ever since she knew Yin Ren was injured, Qi Xin had hidden herself entirely in this place.
She originally thought she could hide here until Yin Ren and Love settled their battle, and then she could act accordingly or make up for it. But not long after, she couldn’t sit still—
“Satisfaction” was injured.
Large sections of its pristine surface were missing, revealing colorful dream bubbles underneath. Its movement slowed slightly, and there were fewer newly formed Primordial Elementals than before.
Could it be Yin Ren’s doing?
Qi Xin summoned a humanoid projection and decided to give Yin Ren a serious warning. “Satisfaction” must not be compromised.
She couldn’t find Yin Ren, but she could capture the sneaky “Lonelies”. Just as Ms. Qi Xin was chasing cats all over the place, a white figure appeared behind her.
“Sorrow.” The figure wearing a hood called out.
Qi Xin didn’t even turn her head. “It’s you again.”
Love was dressed in a white cloak, standing amidst the strange and colorful Other Side. She was two steps away from Qi Xin, who was wearing a dark-colored suit, creating a stark contrast.
Upon hearing Qi Xin’s impolite greeting, Love smiled slightly. She let the large white cloak slide down, revealing a face that belonged to a human.
Graceful and delicate features, long hair falling below the collarbone, slightly curled. This face couldn’t be called breathtakingly beautiful, but it exuded a gentle temperament that made people want to get closer from the bottom of their hearts.
Qi Xin recognized this face.
Sun Qi’an, a doctor who used to be quite close to Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo.
The former Love struggled to survive within the gaps, only able to briefly manipulate humans. It couldn’t even make puppets like Disgust and Joy.
Lacking physical strength, she compensated with hardware. She had been quite interested in the research of Gengsheng Town, probably hoping to have a puppet with strong abilities but weak self-awareness. Qi Xin had happily caused trouble for Love and directly consumed the “research results” of Gengsheng Town—the old mayor.
Now, Love kept appearing in front of her, making it hard to say whether it was intentional or not.
“What are you thinking?” Qi Xin casually took two steps back. “This projection… Why did you choose a human?”
“As you know, this is just a projection. Like you, my true self is not here.”
Love put on the cloak and hood again.
“But unlike you, I won’t hide in the shadows. Soon, I will be able to go out into the world personally…”
Her voice was soft and gentle, pleasant to listen to, but in Qi Xin’s ears, it was like a thunderbolt. The Ancient Primordial Elementals could only send projections, and apart from Old Fear almost losing its life, no one had heard of a true body entering the world.
Moreover, now that she had a projection, Love could do whatever she wanted. Why did she need to bring her true self?
As if seeing through Qi Xin’s thoughts, Love took a step forward and revealed a beautiful smile.
“Thanks to you, I no longer have companions who can walk in the world.” She said, “Relying only on myself, it will be a slow process to master the human world. The nights are long and filled with dreams… Absolute power is still the most effective, don’t you think?”
Qi Xin sneered. “Absolute power? Have you seen that cub? To exert power, reverting to your true form is the most basic requirement. With your current appearance, humans won’t buy it.”
In an instant, a series of disaster movies flashed through Qi Xin’s mind. If Love suddenly descended into the human world, it might end up as a full-course nuclear meal. As for whether human weapons could completely eliminate the “data organism” like the Elementals, she didn’t know.
Love didn’t answer immediately; she just smiled quietly.
Qi Xin pursed her lips and gradually realized something. “You went through the trouble of creating a projection, could it be…”
Love’s smile became even brighter.
“This woman, isn’t she perfect? A top-tier university’s outstanding student, beautiful appearance, and the right age. Her family background isn’t too good or too bad; her parents both work in law enforcement, and she is an excellent doctor. Regardless of cultural background, human society has always favored such people.”
Love tidied Sun Qi’an’s slightly curled hair.
“In human culture, ‘gods’ always send ‘representative figures’ who can communicate. This way, humans won’t resist me too much, don’t you think?”
So that’s how it is. While the true body descended, exerting military pressure, the projection would take on a gentle guise in human form, leading them. Quite a variety of methods.
Qi Xin remained expressionless; she didn’t care about what would happen in the human world.
Qi Xin: “You came here just to explain your plan? If you have nothing better to do, you can go and preach to humans. Goodbye.”
She turned her body, about to leave.
“I know you don’t care about humans,” Love said. “I just wanted to tell you that I really only want to save the Other Side. Gaining power from the human side is meaningless to you and me. You understand that.”
Qi Xin stopped but still didn’t turn around.
“I also know why you appeared again,” Love said gently. “’Satisfaction’ wasn’t hurt by ‘Fear’. I did it.”
“Are you insane?!” Qi Xin suddenly turned around; her face drastically changed.
In Qi Xin’s vigilant gaze, Love slowly extended her hands. A glob of mercurial flesh rolled back and forth in her palms. Judging by its size, it definitely wasn’t something that naturally fell off.
Then, she tilted her head back and slowly drank the pale and beautiful flesh. The liquid, like brain marrow, slid through her fingers, leaving fine strands like honey, completely disappearing into her throat.
They rapidly transformed into pure power and flowed back to her true body through the projection.
“You…” Qi Xin was speechless and dumbfounded.
When Zhong Chengshuo was still “Fear”, he never touched “Satisfaction”. As the devourer of all Primordial Elementals, “Satisfaction” was an exception. They didn’t interfere with each other, maintaining the operation of the Other Side day and night.
Even “Fear” was like that, let alone other Elementals. As the apex predator in the food chain, its flesh contained extremely powerful energy that not everyone could easily digest. When “Fear” perished, its flesh broke down into a secondary force called “Evil Force”, and only then did the Elementals dare to consume it without worries.
But now, Love, in front of her, devoured the living flesh of “Satisfaction”.
“I told you, I found a more perfect method.”
Love licked off the last bit of flesh.
“Thanks to the blessing of ‘Satisfaction’, my losses have been completely restored over these years. Now I can contend with ‘Satisfaction’. You know what that means… Sorrow, come back to me.”
She opened her hands.
“Monster…” Qi Xin clenched her teeth. As an Ancient Primordial Elemental, she never thought that one day she would utter such a sentiment.
“Yes, I’ve become a monster. I will take everyone back to that golden era.”
Love’s tone was quite sincere. Her voice remained gentle, yet it sent shivers down one’s spine.
“By the way, the cub you favored is also such a monster… You’ve been with him all this time, haven’t you noticed? I know your difficulties and your calculations.”
“But this is a battle you can’t interfere in, Sorrow. You must make a choice.”
“Is it me, who deeply loves the Other Side, or that cub born in the human world?”
……
Ge Tingting sat on the sofa at Lao Bin’s home, carefully sipping bottled green tea. Huang Jin tightly gripped his drink bottle, his eyes fixedly staring in place.
The house was new and tastefully decorated, clearly expensive. However, the beautiful marble table was filled with instant noodle cups, leaning against empty beer bottles, emitting a long-unattended sour odor. Fruit peels, plastic bags, and takeout boxes were scattered on the floor, ready to be stepped on if one wasn’t careful.
Lao Bin slouched on the other end of the sofa, looking much thinner than before. The bearded doctor had scruffy facial hair, and his hair was thinning on top. Ge Tingting observed him for a while, suspecting that his hair was migrating from his scalp to his chin.
Qin Lele couldn’t stand the messy living room and was busy packing up the garbage in bags, frowning as he headed out.
“Enough,” Lao Bin said. “It’s been over a week. Why haven’t you given up?”
“I wonder too,” Huang Jin agreed.
“After persisting for over a week, you let us in. It proves that this approach is correct,” Ge Tingting said.
Lao Bin sighed heavily. “Fine, I didn’t want to put it in such harsh terms. You can see the current situation. That corpse centipede is ridiculously strong and refuses to engage in direct combat. Sunken Society brought about massive corruption, and there are constant minor contaminations. The nonsensical rumors are increasing.”
“The police and Shian can’t handle it. Societal chaos is just a matter of time,” he said in anguish. “Xiao Ge, you’re still young and can’t see things too far. There are some things we mortals are powerless against.”
Huang Jin nodded frantically. “Right, right.”
Ge Tingting glared at Huang Jin, then turned to Lao Bin. “But…”
She had intended to say something reasonable, like how even a small change is still a change, or about protection and righteousness. However, it was clear that Lao Bin belonged to the same category as Huang Jin, and his age and intelligence were there. If she said such things, this guy would only find it naive and laughable.
What would Yin Ren do if he were here?
Ge Tingting’s eyes darted around, and she quickly deleted the words on her phone, coming up with a different approach.
“But you need money,” she said.
“This house is expensive, and the renovations must have cost a lot of effort. It’s understandable that you feel upset when you can’t live a good life, right?”
Ge Tingting forced a smooth smile.
“Lao Bin Ge, you’ve just published a paper. You’re a talented individual with a bright future. You say society is going to descend into chaos, but it hasn’t happened yet, and Shian is still functioning normally. Take this opportunity to earn some extra bonuses—it will provide more opportunities for your future.”
Lao Bin rolled his bloodshot eyes. “Hmm…?”
“And in my idea, you don’t need to personally rush to the frontlines, and it can even increase your visibility. Would you like to hear it?”
Ge Tingting blinked frantically.
“Fine, since you’re all here, go ahead and tell me.” After hesitating for a moment, Lao Bin slightly relaxed.
“It’s like this…” Ge Tingting leaned closer and solemnly explained the plan.
Ten minutes later.
“That’s it?!” Lao Bin stood up. “No, this is simply absurd. You—”
He paused midway, suddenly at a loss for words.
The centipede hadn’t harmed anyone yet, just like the corruption spread by Sunken Society. It tried to minimize its impact, subtly creating panic. If it really caused casualties, the public would certainly resist with all their might. But operating quietly like this was the most mentally exhausting.
Just like a spider that appeared and disappeared in a room.
Ge Tingting’s method was old-fashioned, but it might be effective.
“Lao Bin Ge, you’re right. I’m still young and can’t see far into the future,” Ge Tingting said sincerely. “That’s why I thought, if Sunken Society wants a certain effect, we should do the opposite.”
“I’ll think about it.” Lao Bin rubbed his temples. “I’ll give you an answer today. I’m sorry, but with the state of the house right now, it’s not suitable for me to invite you for a meal…”
“No problem, you’re too kind.”
Qin Lele insisted on staying behind to clean, so only Ge Tingting and Huang Jin went downstairs.
“That guy will agree,” Huang Jin said, looking at the advertisement screen in the elevator. “Lao Bin didn’t immediately agree because he wants to save face since you’re younger.”
“I know.”
“You’re really something. You’re quite good at not learning the good stuff.” Huang Jin glanced at Ge Tingting. “You didn’t learn the hard skills of the Great Celestial Master, but you’ve picked up all his annoying habits. It’s impressive that you came up with such a cunning idea.”
Ge Tingting didn’t respond immediately.
Ding. The elevator arrived on the first floor. The metal doors slowly opened, and the cold air of early winter rushed in. Outside the corridor, the blue sky was clear, and the sunlight was just right.
“I know everyone is strong, and currently, I can only come up with ideas like this,” Ge Tingting said. “But I can’t just dismiss this idea as conventional and not try it. It’s not enough to just think about becoming stronger in my mind; practice is better.”
“And you, criticizing my plan as not good here and there, yet here you are with me.”
Huang Jin: “……”
Huang Jin: “…You’re a young girl. I can’t just let you wander around on your own.”
Ge Tingting clicked her tongue. “Stop pretending. You agree with Lao Bin in words, but you didn’t quit your job, and you haven’t taken long-term leave like him. Admit it, you have some courage, and it’s not shameful.”
Huang Jin sneered. “Do you think I really care about this damn society? I don’t—”
“Don’t?”
“…I don’t care about this damn society.” Huang Jin swallowed a mouthful of saliva.
That was close. He almost blurted out what he truly felt.
After exploring the Other Side, Shian did restore his identity and gave him a substantial amount of money. Even if he and Ding Lizi didn’t work, as long as they controlled their expenses, they could live off the interest for the rest of their lives.
This was the perfect time for him to submit his resignation. As soon as he returned to his room, Huang Jin immediately changed his transfer request to a resignation letter.
Finally, he would be liberated from this godforsaken place, and a life of freedom beckoned to him.
Huang Jin carefully sealed the resignation letter and set a timed email. With everything prepared, he entered Ding Lizi’s hospital room.
Ding Lizi’s eyes had been healed by Yin Ren, and her vision was gradually recovering. Huang Jin had seen her in photos; her pupils were incredibly clear, with a warm brown color that had been bathed in sunlight.
“It’s you.” Seeing Huang Jin enter, Ding Lizi put down her guitar and revealed a sweet smile.
Huang Jin sat down by the bed, his heart almost bursting out of his ribcage. After calming his emotions for a few minutes, his face turned red, and he cautiously spoke, “Lizi, there’s something I need to explain to you. Next, I’m planning to…”
Planning to resign and take you away from here to a safe place.
“Plan to go on a business trip, right?” Ding Lizi pursed her lips, showing an expression of “I understand”. “You don’t have to hide it from me; I already know.”
Huang Jin: “Huh?”
“Having gone through that kind of thing, I would be foolish not to notice.” She shook her head mysteriously and lowered her voice. “My medical condition has improved to an excessive extent. Even my eyes, which couldn’t be treated, have gotten better. Are you working in that, um, official supernatural agency?”
“Um…” Huang Jin instantly froze.
Ding Lizi: “I know you need to keep secrets. I just wanted to say that when you leave, you don’t need to make excuses to me.”
She casually plucked the guitar strings, pure joy drifting through her swirling thoughts.
‘So amazing. He’s doing the work of saving people.’ ‘He’s such a good person.’ ‘Once I’m completely better, I’ll definitely repay the medical expenses.’ ‘He’s really kind.’
Huang Jin covered his eyes with a slap.
“Okay,” he said bitterly, “No need for excuses. I’ll be busy starting tomorrow.”
‘Maybe I can delay submitting the resignation letter a bit longer,’ Huang Jin thought. A little more delay shouldn’t matter.
……
Then he joined Ge Tingting’s foolish plan. How could he say such a thing?
Huang Jin finished reminiscing, and they had already arrived at Ping’an Manor—the villa belonging to the drug lord Master Liu, which had been sealed by Shian since the Feng Qi case and remained vacant. As an employee of Shian, Ge Tingting had applied for permission to use it.
“Ah,” Huang Jin sighed heavily.
With heavy steps, he entered the mansion’s hall.
There, a massive… pile of trash was displayed.
Ge Tingting had collected animal bones from various restaurants and garbage dumps, arranging them into the shape of a dragon. She had also decorated it with numerous beverage bottles, plastic bags, and takeout boxes, making it the epitome of modern garbage art. The bones were wrapped in plastic bags, and their joints barely moved, wriggling like frozen mudskippers.
A lot of expired frozen meat was piled up in another sealed room, slowly decomposing in low temperature. When they were hung on the skeleton, the final product would be even more disgusting.
Ge Tingting was using her corpse servant ability to adjust the bones, making the monstrosity move more naturally. The skilled spirit smith Huang Jin stood to the side, holding his nose, giving structural advice in agony.
He must have gone insane to get involved with this garbage.
“When the news of Lao Bin Ge’s ‘Haigu Sewers Infected with Hallucinogenic Fungus’ is released, we’ll let it make more appearances.”
Ge Tingting happily examined the pile of trash.
“There are no monsters; just a bunch of garbage and hallucinations caused by fungus. This kind of plot will be easily accepted by everyone.”
She even directed her phone to play a popular song, tapping her foot to the beat.
Huang Jin’s gaze was dead the entire time.
She didn’t think too much about it, but he could guess what would come next.
The value of the corpse centipede creating panic would disappear, and Sunken Society would treat it as an overt weapon. Ge Tingting’s actions, carried out with such enthusiasm, must have been tacitly approved by the higher-ups at Shian. They were also waiting for the appearance of the corpse centipede.
Next, a storm was likely to arrive.
At that time, Huang Jin didn’t realize that this pile of garbage in front of him had ignited the first shot of the “War Between Gods”.
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In the depths of the myriad of information on the Other Side, in the dim history rarely touched by anyone, “Sorrow” quietly lurked.
Its form was like gray-black remnants of creatures, sticking together and slowly flowing within the crevices of old memories. Qi Xin liked it here; it had always been a safe place for countless years.
Ever since she knew Yin Ren was injured, Qi Xin had hidden herself entirely in this place.
She originally thought she could hide here until Yin Ren and Love settled their battle, and then she could act accordingly or make up for it. But not long after, she couldn’t sit still—
“Satisfaction” was injured.
Large sections of its pristine surface were missing, revealing colorful dream bubbles underneath. Its movement slowed slightly, and there were fewer newly formed Primordial Elementals than before.
Could it be Yin Ren’s doing?
Qi Xin summoned a humanoid projection and decided to give Yin Ren a serious warning. “Satisfaction” must not be compromised.
She couldn’t find Yin Ren, but she could capture the sneaky “Lonelies”. Just as Ms. Qi Xin was chasing cats all over the place, a white figure appeared behind her.
“Sorrow.” The figure wearing a hood called out.
Qi Xin didn’t even turn her head. “It’s you again.”
Love was dressed in a white cloak, standing amidst the strange and colorful Other Side. She was two steps away from Qi Xin, who was wearing a dark-colored suit, creating a stark contrast.
Upon hearing Qi Xin’s impolite greeting, Love smiled slightly. She let the large white cloak slide down, revealing a face that belonged to a human.
Graceful and delicate features, long hair falling below the collarbone, slightly curled. This face couldn’t be called breathtakingly beautiful, but it exuded a gentle temperament that made people want to get closer from the bottom of their hearts.
Qi Xin recognized this face.
Sun Qi’an, a doctor who used to be quite close to Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo.
The former Love struggled to survive within the gaps, only able to briefly manipulate humans. It couldn’t even make puppets like Disgust and Joy.
Lacking physical strength, she compensated with hardware. She had been quite interested in the research of Gengsheng Town, probably hoping to have a puppet with strong abilities but weak self-awareness. Qi Xin had happily caused trouble for Love and directly consumed the “research results” of Gengsheng Town—the old mayor.
Now, Love kept appearing in front of her, making it hard to say whether it was intentional or not.
“What are you thinking?” Qi Xin casually took two steps back. “This projection… Why did you choose a human?”
“As you know, this is just a projection. Like you, my true self is not here.”
Love put on the cloak and hood again.
“But unlike you, I won’t hide in the shadows. Soon, I will be able to go out into the world personally…”
Her voice was soft and gentle, pleasant to listen to, but in Qi Xin’s ears, it was like a thunderbolt. The Ancient Primordial Elementals could only send projections, and apart from Old Fear almost losing its life, no one had heard of a true body entering the world.
Moreover, now that she had a projection, Love could do whatever she wanted. Why did she need to bring her true self?
As if seeing through Qi Xin’s thoughts, Love took a step forward and revealed a beautiful smile.
“Thanks to you, I no longer have companions who can walk in the world.” She said, “Relying only on myself, it will be a slow process to master the human world. The nights are long and filled with dreams… Absolute power is still the most effective, don’t you think?”
Qi Xin sneered. “Absolute power? Have you seen that cub? To exert power, reverting to your true form is the most basic requirement. With your current appearance, humans won’t buy it.”
In an instant, a series of disaster movies flashed through Qi Xin’s mind. If Love suddenly descended into the human world, it might end up as a full-course nuclear meal. As for whether human weapons could completely eliminate the “data organism” like the Elementals, she didn’t know.
Love didn’t answer immediately; she just smiled quietly.
Qi Xin pursed her lips and gradually realized something. “You went through the trouble of creating a projection, could it be…”
Love’s smile became even brighter.
“This woman, isn’t she perfect? A top-tier university’s outstanding student, beautiful appearance, and the right age. Her family background isn’t too good or too bad; her parents both work in law enforcement, and she is an excellent doctor. Regardless of cultural background, human society has always favored such people.”
Love tidied Sun Qi’an’s slightly curled hair.
“In human culture, ‘gods’ always send ‘representative figures’ who can communicate. This way, humans won’t resist me too much, don’t you think?”
So that’s how it is. While the true body descended, exerting military pressure, the projection would take on a gentle guise in human form, leading them. Quite a variety of methods.
Qi Xin remained expressionless; she didn’t care about what would happen in the human world.
Qi Xin: “You came here just to explain your plan? If you have nothing better to do, you can go and preach to humans. Goodbye.”
She turned her body, about to leave.
“I know you don’t care about humans,” Love said. “I just wanted to tell you that I really only want to save the Other Side. Gaining power from the human side is meaningless to you and me. You understand that.”
Qi Xin stopped but still didn’t turn around.
“I also know why you appeared again,” Love said gently. “’Satisfaction’ wasn’t hurt by ‘Fear’. I did it.”
“Are you insane?!” Qi Xin suddenly turned around; her face drastically changed.
In Qi Xin’s vigilant gaze, Love slowly extended her hands. A glob of mercurial flesh rolled back and forth in her palms. Judging by its size, it definitely wasn’t something that naturally fell off.
Then, she tilted her head back and slowly drank the pale and beautiful flesh. The liquid, like brain marrow, slid through her fingers, leaving fine strands like honey, completely disappearing into her throat.
They rapidly transformed into pure power and flowed back to her true body through the projection.
“You…” Qi Xin was speechless and dumbfounded.
When Zhong Chengshuo was still “Fear”, he never touched “Satisfaction”. As the devourer of all Primordial Elementals, “Satisfaction” was an exception. They didn’t interfere with each other, maintaining the operation of the Other Side day and night.
Even “Fear” was like that, let alone other Elementals. As the apex predator in the food chain, its flesh contained extremely powerful energy that not everyone could easily digest. When “Fear” perished, its flesh broke down into a secondary force called “Evil Force”, and only then did the Elementals dare to consume it without worries.
But now, Love, in front of her, devoured the living flesh of “Satisfaction”.
“I told you, I found a more perfect method.”
Love licked off the last bit of flesh.
“Thanks to the blessing of ‘Satisfaction’, my losses have been completely restored over these years. Now I can contend with ‘Satisfaction’. You know what that means… Sorrow, come back to me.”
She opened her hands.
“Monster…” Qi Xin clenched her teeth. As an Ancient Primordial Elemental, she never thought that one day she would utter such a sentiment.
“Yes, I’ve become a monster. I will take everyone back to that golden era.”
Love’s tone was quite sincere. Her voice remained gentle, yet it sent shivers down one’s spine.
“By the way, the cub you favored is also such a monster… You’ve been with him all this time, haven’t you noticed? I know your difficulties and your calculations.”
“But this is a battle you can’t interfere in, Sorrow. You must make a choice.”
“Is it me, who deeply loves the Other Side, or that cub born in the human world?”
……
Ge Tingting sat on the sofa at Lao Bin’s home, carefully sipping bottled green tea. Huang Jin tightly gripped his drink bottle, his eyes fixedly staring in place.
The house was new and tastefully decorated, clearly expensive. However, the beautiful marble table was filled with instant noodle cups, leaning against empty beer bottles, emitting a long-unattended sour odor. Fruit peels, plastic bags, and takeout boxes were scattered on the floor, ready to be stepped on if one wasn’t careful.
Lao Bin slouched on the other end of the sofa, looking much thinner than before. The bearded doctor had scruffy facial hair, and his hair was thinning on top. Ge Tingting observed him for a while, suspecting that his hair was migrating from his scalp to his chin.
Qin Lele couldn’t stand the messy living room and was busy packing up the garbage in bags, frowning as he headed out.
“Enough,” Lao Bin said. “It’s been over a week. Why haven’t you given up?”
“I wonder too,” Huang Jin agreed.
“After persisting for over a week, you let us in. It proves that this approach is correct,” Ge Tingting said.
Lao Bin sighed heavily. “Fine, I didn’t want to put it in such harsh terms. You can see the current situation. That corpse centipede is ridiculously strong and refuses to engage in direct combat. Sunken Society brought about massive corruption, and there are constant minor contaminations. The nonsensical rumors are increasing.”
“The police and Shian can’t handle it. Societal chaos is just a matter of time,” he said in anguish. “Xiao Ge, you’re still young and can’t see things too far. There are some things we mortals are powerless against.”
Huang Jin nodded frantically. “Right, right.”
Ge Tingting glared at Huang Jin, then turned to Lao Bin. “But…”
She had intended to say something reasonable, like how even a small change is still a change, or about protection and righteousness. However, it was clear that Lao Bin belonged to the same category as Huang Jin, and his age and intelligence were there. If she said such things, this guy would only find it naive and laughable.
What would Yin Ren do if he were here?
Ge Tingting’s eyes darted around, and she quickly deleted the words on her phone, coming up with a different approach.
“But you need money,” she said.
“This house is expensive, and the renovations must have cost a lot of effort. It’s understandable that you feel upset when you can’t live a good life, right?”
Ge Tingting forced a smooth smile.
“Lao Bin Ge, you’ve just published a paper. You’re a talented individual with a bright future. You say society is going to descend into chaos, but it hasn’t happened yet, and Shian is still functioning normally. Take this opportunity to earn some extra bonuses—it will provide more opportunities for your future.”
Lao Bin rolled his bloodshot eyes. “Hmm…?”
“And in my idea, you don’t need to personally rush to the frontlines, and it can even increase your visibility. Would you like to hear it?”
Ge Tingting blinked frantically.
“Fine, since you’re all here, go ahead and tell me.” After hesitating for a moment, Lao Bin slightly relaxed.
“It’s like this…” Ge Tingting leaned closer and solemnly explained the plan.
Ten minutes later.
“That’s it?!” Lao Bin stood up. “No, this is simply absurd. You—”
He paused midway, suddenly at a loss for words.
The centipede hadn’t harmed anyone yet, just like the corruption spread by Sunken Society. It tried to minimize its impact, subtly creating panic. If it really caused casualties, the public would certainly resist with all their might. But operating quietly like this was the most mentally exhausting.
Just like a spider that appeared and disappeared in a room.
Ge Tingting’s method was old-fashioned, but it might be effective.
“Lao Bin Ge, you’re right. I’m still young and can’t see far into the future,” Ge Tingting said sincerely. “That’s why I thought, if Sunken Society wants a certain effect, we should do the opposite.”
“I’ll think about it.” Lao Bin rubbed his temples. “I’ll give you an answer today. I’m sorry, but with the state of the house right now, it’s not suitable for me to invite you for a meal…”
“No problem, you’re too kind.”
Qin Lele insisted on staying behind to clean, so only Ge Tingting and Huang Jin went downstairs.
“That guy will agree,” Huang Jin said, looking at the advertisement screen in the elevator. “Lao Bin didn’t immediately agree because he wants to save face since you’re younger.”
“I know.”
“You’re really something. You’re quite good at not learning the good stuff.” Huang Jin glanced at Ge Tingting. “You didn’t learn the hard skills of the Great Celestial Master, but you’ve picked up all his annoying habits. It’s impressive that you came up with such a cunning idea.”
Ge Tingting didn’t respond immediately.
Ding. The elevator arrived on the first floor. The metal doors slowly opened, and the cold air of early winter rushed in. Outside the corridor, the blue sky was clear, and the sunlight was just right.
“I know everyone is strong, and currently, I can only come up with ideas like this,” Ge Tingting said. “But I can’t just dismiss this idea as conventional and not try it. It’s not enough to just think about becoming stronger in my mind; practice is better.”
“And you, criticizing my plan as not good here and there, yet here you are with me.”
Huang Jin: “……”
Huang Jin: “…You’re a young girl. I can’t just let you wander around on your own.”
Ge Tingting clicked her tongue. “Stop pretending. You agree with Lao Bin in words, but you didn’t quit your job, and you haven’t taken long-term leave like him. Admit it, you have some courage, and it’s not shameful.”
Huang Jin sneered. “Do you think I really care about this damn society? I don’t—”
“Don’t?”
“…I don’t care about this damn society.” Huang Jin swallowed a mouthful of saliva.
That was close. He almost blurted out what he truly felt.
After exploring the Other Side, Shian did restore his identity and gave him a substantial amount of money. Even if he and Ding Lizi didn’t work, as long as they controlled their expenses, they could live off the interest for the rest of their lives.
This was the perfect time for him to submit his resignation. As soon as he returned to his room, Huang Jin immediately changed his transfer request to a resignation letter.
Finally, he would be liberated from this godforsaken place, and a life of freedom beckoned to him.
Huang Jin carefully sealed the resignation letter and set a timed email. With everything prepared, he entered Ding Lizi’s hospital room.
Ding Lizi’s eyes had been healed by Yin Ren, and her vision was gradually recovering. Huang Jin had seen her in photos; her pupils were incredibly clear, with a warm brown color that had been bathed in sunlight.
“It’s you.” Seeing Huang Jin enter, Ding Lizi put down her guitar and revealed a sweet smile.
Huang Jin sat down by the bed, his heart almost bursting out of his ribcage. After calming his emotions for a few minutes, his face turned red, and he cautiously spoke, “Lizi, there’s something I need to explain to you. Next, I’m planning to…”
Planning to resign and take you away from here to a safe place.
“Plan to go on a business trip, right?” Ding Lizi pursed her lips, showing an expression of “I understand”. “You don’t have to hide it from me; I already know.”
Huang Jin: “Huh?”
“Having gone through that kind of thing, I would be foolish not to notice.” She shook her head mysteriously and lowered her voice. “My medical condition has improved to an excessive extent. Even my eyes, which couldn’t be treated, have gotten better. Are you working in that, um, official supernatural agency?”
“Um…” Huang Jin instantly froze.
Ding Lizi: “I know you need to keep secrets. I just wanted to say that when you leave, you don’t need to make excuses to me.”
She casually plucked the guitar strings, pure joy drifting through her swirling thoughts.
‘So amazing. He’s doing the work of saving people.’ ‘He’s such a good person.’ ‘Once I’m completely better, I’ll definitely repay the medical expenses.’ ‘He’s really kind.’
Huang Jin covered his eyes with a slap.
“Okay,” he said bitterly, “No need for excuses. I’ll be busy starting tomorrow.”
‘Maybe I can delay submitting the resignation letter a bit longer,’ Huang Jin thought. A little more delay shouldn’t matter.
……
Then he joined Ge Tingting’s foolish plan. How could he say such a thing?
Huang Jin finished reminiscing, and they had already arrived at Ping’an Manor—the villa belonging to the drug lord Master Liu, which had been sealed by Shian since the Feng Qi case and remained vacant. As an employee of Shian, Ge Tingting had applied for permission to use it.
“Ah,” Huang Jin sighed heavily.
With heavy steps, he entered the mansion’s hall.
There, a massive… pile of trash was displayed.
Ge Tingting had collected animal bones from various restaurants and garbage dumps, arranging them into the shape of a dragon. She had also decorated it with numerous beverage bottles, plastic bags, and takeout boxes, making it the epitome of modern garbage art. The bones were wrapped in plastic bags, and their joints barely moved, wriggling like frozen mudskippers.
A lot of expired frozen meat was piled up in another sealed room, slowly decomposing in low temperature. When they were hung on the skeleton, the final product would be even more disgusting.
Ge Tingting was using her corpse servant ability to adjust the bones, making the monstrosity move more naturally. The skilled spirit smith Huang Jin stood to the side, holding his nose, giving structural advice in agony.
He must have gone insane to get involved with this garbage.
“When the news of Lao Bin Ge’s ‘Haigu Sewers Infected with Hallucinogenic Fungus’ is released, we’ll let it make more appearances.”
Ge Tingting happily examined the pile of trash.
“There are no monsters; just a bunch of garbage and hallucinations caused by fungus. This kind of plot will be easily accepted by everyone.”
She even directed her phone to play a popular song, tapping her foot to the beat.
Huang Jin’s gaze was dead the entire time.
She didn’t think too much about it, but he could guess what would come next.
The value of the corpse centipede creating panic would disappear, and Sunken Society would treat it as an overt weapon. Ge Tingting’s actions, carried out with such enthusiasm, must have been tacitly approved by the higher-ups at Shian. They were also waiting for the appearance of the corpse centipede.
Next, a storm was likely to arrive.
At that time, Huang Jin didn’t realize that this pile of garbage in front of him had ignited the first shot of the “War Between Gods”.
In the depths of the myriad of information on the Other Side, in the dim history rarely touched by anyone, Sorrow quietly lurked.Its form was like gray-black remnants of creatures, sticking together and slowly flowing within the crevices of old memories. Qi Xin liked it here; it had always been a safe place for countless years.Ever since she knew Yin Ren was injured, Qi Xin had hidden herself entirely in this place.She originally thought she could hide here until Yin Ren and Love settled their battle, and then she could act accordingly or make up for it. But not long after, she couldn't sit stillSatisfaction was injured.Large sections of its pristine surface were missing, revealing colorful dream bubbles underneath. Its movement slowed slightly, and there were fewer newly formed Primordial Elementals than before.Could it be Yin Ren's doing?Qi Xin summoned a humanoid projection and decided to give Yin Ren a serious warning. Satisfaction must not be compromised.She couldn't find Yin Ren, but she could capture the sneaky Lonelies. Just as Ms. Qi Xin was chasing cats all over the place, a white figure appeared behind her.Sorrow. The figure wearing a hood called out.Qi Xin didn't even turn her head. It's you again.Love was dressed in a white cloak, standing amidst the strange and colorful Other Side. She was two steps away from Qi Xin, who was wearing a dark-colored suit, creating a stark contrast.Upon hearing Qi Xin's impolite greeting, Love smiled slightly. She let the large white cloak slide down, revealing a face that belonged to a human.Graceful and delicate features, long hair falling below the collarbone, slightly curled. This face couldn't be called breathtakingly beautiful, but it exuded a gentle temperament that made people want to get closer from the bottom of their hearts.Qi Xin recognized this face.Sun Qi'an, a doctor who used to be quite close to Yin Ren and Zhong Chengshuo.The former Love struggled to survive within the gaps, only able to briefly manipulate humans. It couldn't even make puppets like Disgust and Joy.Lacking physical strength, she compensated with hardware. She had been quite interested in the research of Gengsheng Town, probably hoping to have a puppet with strong abilities but weak self-awareness. Qi Xin had happily caused trouble for Love and directly consumed the research results of Gengsheng Townthe old mayor.Now, Love kept appearing in front of her, making it hard to say whether it was intentional or not.What are you thinking? Qi Xin casually took two steps back. This projection Why did you choose a human?As you know, this is just a projection. Like you, my true self is not here.Love put on the cloak and hood again.But unlike you, I won't hide in the shadows. Soon, I will be able to go out into the world personallyHer voice was soft and gentle, pleasant to listen to, but in Qi Xin's ears, it was like a thunderbolt. The Ancient Primordial Elementals could only send projections, and apart from Old Fear almost losing its life, no one had heard of a true body entering the world.Moreover, now that she had a projection, Love could do whatever she wanted. Why did she need to bring her true self?As if seeing through Qi Xin's thoughts, Love took a step forward and revealed a beautiful smile.Thanks to you, I no longer have companions who can walk in the world. She said, Relying only on myself, it will be a slow process to master the human world. The nights are long and filled with dreams Absolute power is still the most effective, don't you think?Qi Xin sneered. Absolute power? Have you seen that cub? To exert power, reverting to your true form is the most basic requirement. With your current appearance, humans won't buy it.In an instant, a series of disaster movies flashed through Qi Xin's mind. If Love suddenly descended into the human world, it might end up as a full-course nuclear meal. As for whether human weapons could completely eliminate the data organism like the Elementals, she didn't know.Love didn't answer immediately; she just smiled quietly.Qi Xin pursed her lips and gradually realized something. You went through the trouble of creating a projection, could it beLove's smile became even brighter.This woman, isn't she perfect? A top-tier university's outstanding student, beautiful appearance, and the right age. Her family background isn't too good or too bad; her parents both work in law enforcement, and she is an excellent doctor. Regardless of cultural background, human society has always favored such people.Love tidied Sun Qi'an's slightly curled hair.In human culture, gods' always send representative figures' who can communicate. This way, humans won't resist me too much, don't you think?So that's how it is.While the true body descended, exerting military pressure, the projection would take on a gentle guise in human form, leading them. Quite a variety of methods.Qi Xin remained expressionless; she didn't care about what would happen in the human world.Qi Xin: You came here just to explain your plan? If you have nothing better to do, you can go and preach to humans. Goodbye.She turned her body, about to leave.I know you don't care about humans, Love said. I just wanted to tell you that I really only want to save the Other Side. Gaining power from the human side is meaningless to you and me. You understand that.Qi Xin stopped but still didn't turn around.I also know why you appeared again, Love said gently. 'Satisfaction' wasn't hurt by Fear'. I did it.Are you insane?! Qi Xin suddenly turned around; her face drastically changed.In Qi Xin's vigilant gaze, Love slowly extended her hands. A glob of mercurial flesh rolled back and forth in her palms. Judging by its size, it definitely wasn't something that naturally fell off.Then, she tilted her head back and slowly drank the pale and beautiful flesh. The liquid, like brain marrow, slid through her fingers, leaving fine strands like honey, completely disappearing into her throat.They rapidly transformed into pure power and flowed back to her true body through the projection.You Qi Xin was speechless and dumbfounded.When Zhong Chengshuo was still Fear, he never touched Satisfaction. As the devourer of all Primordial Elementals, Satisfaction was an exception. They didn't interfere with each other, maintaining the operation of the Other Side day and night.Even Fear was like that, let alone other Elementals. As the apex predator in the food chain, its flesh contained extremely powerful energy that not everyone could easily digest. When Fear perished, its flesh broke down into a secondary force called Evil Force, and only then did the Elementals dare to consume it without worries.But now, Love, in front of her, devoured the living flesh of Satisfaction.I told you, I found a more perfect method.Love licked off the last bit of flesh.Thanks to the blessing of Satisfaction', my losses have been completely restored over these years. Now I can contend with Satisfaction'. You know what that means Sorrow, come back to me.She opened her hands.Monster Qi Xin clenched her teeth. As an Ancient Primordial Elemental, she never thought that one day she would utter such a sentiment.Yes, I've become a monster. I will take everyone back to that golden era.Love's tone was quite sincere. Her voice remained gentle, yet it sent shivers down one's spine.By the way, the cub you favored is also such a monster You've been with him all this time, haven't you noticed? I know your difficulties and your calculations.But this is a battle you can't interfere in, Sorrow. You must make a choice.Is it me, who deeply loves the Other Side, or that cub born in the human world?Ge Tingting sat on the sofa at Lao Bin's home, carefully sipping bottled green tea. Huang Jin tightly gripped his drink bottle, his eyes fixedly staring in place.The house was new and tastefully decorated, clearly expensive. However, the beautiful marble table was filled with instant noodle cups, leaning against empty beer bottles, emitting a long-unattended sour odor. Fruit peels, plastic bags, and takeout boxes were scattered on the floor, ready to be stepped on if one wasn't careful.Lao Bin slouched on the other end of the sofa, looking much thinner than before. The bearded doctor had scruffy facial hair, and his hair was thinning on top. Ge Tingting observed him for a while, suspecting that his hair was migrating from his scalp to his chin.Qin Lele couldn't stand the messy living room and was busy packing up the garbage in bags, frowning as he headed out.Enough, Lao Bin said. It's been over a week. Why haven't you given up?I wonder too, Huang Jin agreed.After persisting for over a week, you let us in. It proves that this approach is correct, Ge Tingting said.Lao Bin sighed heavily. Fine, I didn't want to put it in such harsh terms. You can see the current situation. That corpse centipede is ridiculously strong and refuses to engage in direct combat. Sunken Society brought about massive corruption, and there are constant minor contaminations. The nonsensical rumors are increasing.The police and Shian can't handle it. Societal chaos is just a matter of time, he said in anguish. Xiao Ge, you're still young and can't see things too far. There are some things we mortals are powerless against.Huang Jin nodded frantically. Right, right.Ge Tingting glared at Huang Jin, then turned to Lao Bin. ButShe had intended to say something reasonable, like how even a small change is still a change, or about protection and righteousness. However, it was clear that Lao Bin belonged to the same category as Huang Jin, and his age and intelligence were there. If she said such things, this guy would only find it naive and laughable.What would Yin Ren do if he were here?Ge Tingting's eyes darted around, and she quickly deleted the words on her phone, coming up with a different approach.But you need money, she said.This house is expensive, and the renovations must have cost a lot of effort. It's understandable that you feel upset when you can't live a good life, right?Ge Tingting forced a smooth smile.Lao Bin Ge, you've just published a paper. You're a talented individual with a bright future. You say society is going to descend into chaos, but it hasn't happened yet, and Shian is still functioning normally. Take this opportunity to earn some extra bonusesit will provide more opportunities for your future.Lao Bin rolled his bloodshot eyes. Hmm?And in my idea, you don't need to personally rush to the frontlines, and it can even increase your visibility. Would you like to hear it?Ge Tingting blinked frantically.Fine, since you're all here, go ahead and tell me. After hesitating for a moment, Lao Bin slightly relaxed.It's like this Ge Tingting leaned closer and solemnly explained the plan.Ten minutes later.That's it?! Lao Bin stood up. No, this is simply absurd. YouHe paused midway, suddenly at a loss for words.The centipede hadn't harmed anyone yet, just like the corruption spread by Sunken Society. It tried to minimize its impact, subtly creating panic. If it really caused casualties, the public would certainly resist with all their might. But operating quietly like this was the most mentally exhausting.Just like a spider that appeared and disappeared in a room.Ge Tingting's method was old-fashioned, but it might be effective.Lao Bin Ge, you're right. I'm still young and can't see far into the future, Ge Tingting said sincerely. That's why I thought, if Sunken Society wants a certain effect, we should do the opposite.I'll think about it. Lao Bin rubbed his temples. I'll give you an answer today. I'm sorry, but with the state of the house right now, it's not suitable for me to invite you for a mealNo problem, you're too kind.Qin Lele insisted on staying behind to clean, so only Ge Tingting and Huang Jin went downstairs.That guy will agree, Huang Jin said, looking at the advertisement screen in the elevator. Lao Bin didn't immediately agree because he wants to save face since you're younger.I know.You're really something. You're quite good at not learning the good stuff. Huang Jin glanced at Ge Tingting. You didn't learn the hard skills of the Great Celestial Master, but you've picked up all his annoying habits. It's impressive that you came up with such a cunning idea.Ge Tingting didn't respond immediately.Ding. The elevator arrived on the first floor. The metal doors slowly opened, and the cold air of early winter rushed in. Outside the corridor, the blue sky was clear, and the sunlight was just right.I know everyone is strong, and currently, I can only come up with ideas like this, Ge Tingting said. But I can't just dismiss this idea as conventional and not try it. It's not enough to just think about becoming stronger in my mind; practice is better.And you, criticizing my plan as not good here and there, yet here you are with me.Huang Jin: Huang Jin: You're a young girl. I can't just let you wander around on your own.Ge Tingting clicked her tongue. Stop pretending. You agree with Lao Bin in words, but you didn't quit your job, and you haven't taken long-term leave like him. Admit it, you have some courage, and it's not shameful.Huang Jin sneered. Do you think I really care about this damn society? I don'tDon't?I don't care about this damn society. Huang Jin swallowed a mouthful of saliva.That was close. He almost blurted out what he truly felt.After exploring the Other Side, Shian did restore his identity and gave him a substantial amount of money. Even if he and Ding Lizi didn't work, as long as they controlled their expenses, they could live off the interest for the rest of their lives.This was the perfect time for him to submit his resignation. As soon as he returned to his room, Huang Jin immediately changed his transfer request to a resignation letter.Finally, he would be liberated from this godforsaken place, and a life of freedom beckoned to him.Huang Jin carefully sealed the resignation letter and set a timed email. With everything prepared, he entered Ding Lizi's hospital room.Ding Lizi's eyes had been healed by Yin Ren, and her vision was gradually recovering. Huang Jin had seen her in photos; her pupils were incredibly clear, with a warm brown color that had been bathed in sunlight.It's you. Seeing Huang Jin enter, Ding Lizi put down her guitar and revealed a sweet smile.Huang Jin sat down by the bed, his heart almost bursting out of his ribcage. After calming his emotions for a few minutes, his face turned red, and he cautiously spoke, Lizi, there's something I need to explain to you. Next, I'm planning toPlanning to resign and take you away from here to a safe place.Plan to go on a business trip, right? Ding Lizi pursed her lips, showing an expression of I understand. You don't have to hide it from me; I already know.Huang Jin: Huh?Having gone through that kind of thing, I would be foolish not to notice. She shook her head mysteriously and lowered her voice. My medical condition has improved to an excessive extent. Even my eyes, which couldn't be treated, have gotten better. Are you working in that, um, official supernatural agency?Um Huang Jin instantly froze.Ding Lizi: I know you need to keep secrets. I just wanted to say that when you leave, you don't need to make excuses to me.She casually plucked the guitar strings, pure joy drifting through her swirling thoughts.So amazing. He's doing the work of saving people.' He's such a good person.' Once I'm completely better, I'll definitely repay the medical expenses.' He's really kind.'Huang Jin covered his eyes with a slap.Okay, he said bitterly, No need for excuses. I'll be busy starting tomorrow.Maybe I can delay submitting the resignation letter a bit longer,'Huang Jin thought. A little more delay shouldn't matter.Then he joined Ge Tingting's foolish plan. How could he say such a thing?Huang Jin finished reminiscing, and they had already arrived at Ping'an Manorthe villa belonging to the drug lord Master Liu, which had been sealed by Shian since the Feng Qi case and remained vacant. As an employee of Shian, Ge Tingting had applied for permission to use it.Ah, Huang Jin sighed heavily.With heavy steps, he entered the mansion's hall.There, a massive pile of trash was displayed.Ge Tingting had collected animal bones from various restaurants and garbage dumps, arranging them into the shape of a dragon. She had also decorated it with numerous beverage bottles, plastic bags, and takeout boxes, making it the epitome of modern garbage art. The bones were wrapped in plastic bags, and their joints barely moved, wriggling like frozen mudskippers.A lot of expired frozen meat was piled up in another sealed room, slowly decomposing in low temperature. When they were hung on the skeleton, the final product would be even more disgusting.Ge Tingting was using her corpse servant ability to adjust the bones, making the monstrosity move more naturally. The skilled spirit smith Huang Jin stood to the side, holding his nose, giving structural advice in agony.He must have gone insane to get involved with this garbage.When the news of Lao Bin Ge's Haigu Sewers Infected with Hallucinogenic Fungus' is released, we'll let it make more appearances.Ge Tingting happily examined the pile of trash.There are no monsters; just a bunch of garbage and hallucinations caused by fungus. This kind of plot will be easily accepted by everyone.She even directed her phone to play a popular song, tapping her foot to the beat.Huang Jin's gaze was dead the entire time.She didn't think too much about it, but he could guess what would come next.The value of the corpse centipede creating panic would disappear, and Sunken Society would treat it as an overt weapon. Ge Tingting's actions, carried out with such enthusiasm, must have been tacitly approved by the higher-ups at Shian. They were also waiting for the appearance of the corpse centipede.Next, a storm was likely to arrive.At that time, Huang Jin didn't realize that this pile of garbage in front of him had ignited the first shot of the War Between Gods.
