38 Global Evolution
Zhuang Yao's gaze gently swept across the faces of the three people. He could determine their level of interest based on the changes in their facial muscles and the dilation of their pupils.
Liu Fengyu waved his fist and said, "Stop talking nonsense. I warn you, if you dare to play any tricks, I'll turn you into bones."
Zhuang Yao didn't take his threat seriously at all and replied in a cheerful tone, "Currently, the known types of mutations have been classified into three categories by Beijing: evolution, hybrids, and atavism. Based on my own research and the intercepted conversations from Beijing, I further subdivided them. Evolution can be divided into natural force manipulation evolution and latent gene potential evolution. Hybrids can be categorized as animal hybrids and plant hybrids. As for atavism, it is much more diverse, including mammalian atavism, amphibian atavism, fish atavism, avian atavism, invertebrate, mollusk, arthropod, sponge, and so on. Any species that has been involved in the evolution of life is likely to become a direction for human atavism. Originally, it couldn't be confirmed whether the human genome carries the genetic codes of so many species. However, the marvelous thing is that this world has gone mad, and anything is possible."
Cheng Tianbi squinted his eyes and said, "Go on."
Zhuang Yao smiled and continued, "Natural force manipulation evolution, just like you, has tremendous potential. Once you grow up, your combat power will be immeasurable. The most recent information I received mentioned that there are already two natural force manipulators in Beijing, one with fire energy evolution. With a wave of their hand, they can demolish a building. I'm really looking forward to seeing the effects of your growth. Ah, then there's latent gene potential evolution, which focuses mainly on the evolution of human abilities, such as visual evolution, auditory evolution, olfactory evolution, hair evolution, the most common being strength evolution, and the rarest being brain domain evolution. Natural force manipulators and those with brain domain evolution are considered the rarest and most precious types of evolvers. I heard there are already several of them in Beijing."
Everything Zhuang Yao said matched exactly with what they knew, even more comprehensive than what the Chief of Staff had mentioned. It made them have to believe that this child could truly intercept information from Beijing.
Zhuang Yao looked at them proudly and said, "Now let's talk about hybrids. Hybrids are the most interesting to me. I spent several years studying genetic fusion and modification, but unfortunately, our country only has one gene sequencing instrument, and I've only seen it once, and they didn't even let me touch it. Given enough time, I'm sure I can develop modified humans. However, hybrid humans are obviously far more perfect than genetic fusion between animals and plants. Not only can they merge the abilities, consciousness, and habits of both parties, but they can also freely transform between the two forms. It's truly a miracle of creation." Zhuang Yao's eyes showed admiration as he spoke.
His wisdom, completely surpassing his age, sent shivers down people's spines.
"Hybrids are truly fascinating. You are a Giant King Flower (Corpse flower) hybrid, and I've also seen a Banyan Tree hybrid. Besides plant hybrids, animal hybrids are even more intriguing."
"Animal hybrids..." Liu Fengyu murmured.
"What? You haven't seen one yet? That's a pity. There was once a human and black bear hybrid in Guiyang. He was a young and powerful male bear in the zoo. He was really formidable. It's a shame I didn't get to study him enough." Zhuang Yao shook his head, expressing regret.
"Anyway, if you have a chance to encounter an animal hybrid, I kindly advise you not to conflict with them. Because based on the current state of evolution, both natural force and genetic evolution progress relatively slowly, plant hybrids vary in quality, while animal hybrids have innate physical advantages and are the strongest fighters among humans."
Cong Xia nodded and said, "I can imagine."
"As for atavism, there aren't many of them. I have only seen one mammalian atavism, and it was quite impressive, although not as different as an animal hybrid. Also, there's one more thing that's very interesting." Zhuang Yao revealed a mysterious smile. "Do you think the evolution of animals and plants is just about getting bigger?"
Zhuang Yao smiled and said, "That's right. All the evolutionary characteristics of humans can potentially manifest in animals and plants. I caught a reversion mouse, and it's really fun. It's in my laboratory. However, the probability of animals and plants undergoing mutations similar to humans is almost as low as that of humans. Most animals and plants just become larger and gain stronger survival abilities. The higher the level and complexity of a species, the lower the probability and slower the speed of mutation. I think this is nature's punishment for humans, punishing us for evolving too quickly, advancing too far, and leaving all other species far behind. So now everything is reversed, and those lower species are evolving at a crazy speed, while humans, who were at the forefront of evolution, have become the slowest to evolve. It's truly... amazing."
Cong Xia concealed his inner shock and asked, "Are you saying that the more complex and advanced an animal is, the slower it evolves?"
"Isn't it obvious? After the apocalypse, what species has the highest mortality rate? Humans. Because humans didn't progress along with the environment, at least the vast majority didn't. We have been abandoned. According to my statistics, less than two months after the earthquake, the death toll in Guiyang reached fifty percent. In just over a month, over 2 billion people worldwide vanished. That is the power of nature, or should I say, the power of the Cambrian."
The power of the Cambrian!
The three of them widened their eyes and almost spoke in unison, "What do you mean?"
Zhuang Yao chuckled and said, "Want to know? Then help me with something."
Cong Xia clenched his fist and asked, "Are you implying that you know the cause of the apocalypse?"
"I can't be certain at the moment, but I believe it's not far from the result of my speculation. Everything has a cause and effect. If we can't find the cause and effect of something, it's only because of factors such as time and space that prevent us from finding it, but it doesn't mean it doesn't exist. The occurrence of earthquakes, the advent of the apocalypse, all have reasons. It's not man-made, but it's still related to human actions. I can tell you my speculative result, but after revealing so much information, shouldn't you help me retrieve something as a repayment?"
Cong Xia and Liu Fengyu hesitated, but Cheng Tianbi remained resolute. "I won't go." Although the information was important, their top priority was to reach Beijing safely.
Zhuang Yao saw the dynamics among the three and looked at Cheng Tianbi. "I know you're heading to Beijing. I can help you."
Cheng Tianbi stared coldly at him. "You know everything?"
"Don't use your intelligence to speculate about me. Those who escaped from the west and passed through Guiyang on their way have two main destinations: the southern islands, mainly Hainan and Taiwan, and the three provinces in the east. All three of you have a northern accent, so it's highly likely that you're going north. Even if your destination is the three provinces in the east, you'll definitely want to make a detour to Beijing because everyone is filled with anticipation for the food and safe environment that the capital might have. So, is it wrong for me to say that you're going to Beijing?"
Cong Xia said, "That's right. What kind of help can you provide?"
"Satellite navigation maps, compressed food, medicine, and... transportation."
"Transportation?" The three of them couldn't help but be tempted. Even if they traveled without rest, encountered no dangers along the way, and walked to Beijing, it
would still take two months. But at their current speed, they might not even make it in half a year. If they had transportation, everything would be different.
Liu Fengyu asked, "Is it a flying vehicle?"
"No, it's not. Even if it could fly, you wouldn't dare to ride it. You haven't witnessed how terrifying the things that fly in the sky can be. I have designed a four-wheel drive vehicle that runs on a mixture of solar energy and gasoline. The tires are as tall as a person, enough to handle most rough terrains. The speed is average, but it's sufficient for transportation," Zhuang Yao explained.
"Now I'm curious about what could be so important in that movie theater that you're willing to exchange it for such a vehicle," Liu Fengyu questioned.
Zhuang Yao calmly responded, "A generator. That IMX3D cinema has the largest non-industrial generator in Guiyang. I want to bring it back home. My homemade generator is too small and can't meet my needs. Of course, I'll need to modify it when I bring it back. The efficiency is a bit low." He rolled up his sleeves, revealing his fair and slender arms, and a hint of excitement appeared on his face, giving him a touch of childlike innocence.
Cong Xia couldn't help but ask, "What are you... really doing?"
Zhuang Yao replied, "It's hard for me to explain to someone as intelligent as you."
Cheng Tianbi interjected, "What dangerous things could be in the movie theater? Also, we want to see the vehicle first."
"There's a large gecko living in the movie theater. It's over four meters long. Although it may not be as big as the evolved cats and dogs, its speed is extremely astonishing. It can climb walls and attack from various angles. Its toe pads have evolved millions of tiny steel hairs, allowing it to stand firmly on any surface. Just a touch of its claws can strip off a layer of skin. It's not easy to deal with. But with our cooperation, I believe we can retreat safely. As for the generator, it's heavy. Even if I can defeat the gecko, I still need help to transport it back. As for seeing the vehicle, no problem, I'll take you to see it."
Liu Fengyu turned to the other two and asked, "Can we trust this guy? He offended us before."
Cong Xia pondered for a moment and said, "It's worth a try. If he's lying, we can leave at any time."
Cheng Tianbibi spoke solemnly, "If we enter the gecko's lair, it won't be so easy to leave."
Cong Xia replied, "Tianbi, are you suggesting that we shouldn't go? I'm also hesitant, but his offer is indeed tempting. I can't make up my mind."
Tianbi addressed Zhuang Yao, "Step back 100 meters. We need to discuss."
Zhuang Yao sneered, "No problem." He patted Abu's head and said, "Let's go."
"Hold on." Cong Xia raised the small black box and threw it towards Zhuang Yao. "I don't trust your things. Who knows what's inside? Take it back for now. When we reach your place, I want to open it and see."
Although he knew his knowledge couldn't match Zhuang Yao's, he had a background in engineering and enjoyed dismantling and reassembling things since he was young. He was familiar with various mechanisms and electronic devices. If there was some kind of detonation device or tracking device inside the black box, he would be able to identify it. Considering that Zhuang Yao intercepted military information, who knows if he would "research" them by placing a listening device or something else on them.
Zhuang Yao took the black box, somewhat surprised, and raised an eyebrow. "You're a bit smarter than I imagined."
Cong Xia didn't feel any joy from the compliment. His mind was filled with the decision they had to make.
After Zhuang Yao walked away, Cheng Tianbibi said, "Let's consider the worst-case scenario."
Liu Fengyu said, "The worst-case scenario is obvious. He's using us as bait for the gecko."
Cong Xia nodded, "Exactly, the worst possibility is that he wants to take advantage of us while we face the gecko alone."
Liu Fengyu added, "But what if we can defeat the gecko? Wouldn't that eliminate the worst threat?"
Cheng Tianbi contemplated, "Under the premise of absolute force, conspiracies seem meaningless. So it seems that as long as we can defeat the gecko, all risks cease to exist. However, this kid's cunning is deeper than we imagined. I'm afraid facing the gecko isn't our worst-case scenario."
Cong Xia agreed, "I'm also concerned about that."
"So, should we refuse?" Liu Fengyu felt a sense of disappointment, thinking about the valuable things they could potentially obtain.
Cheng Tianbi looked at Cong Xia, "What do you think?"
Cong Xia replied, "I'm not strong in combat. It will be you guys who fight on the front lines. I don't have the authority to make decisions. I'll follow your lead."
Cheng Tianbi turned to Liu Fengyu, "And you?"
Liu Fengyu clenched his teeth, "I want to give it a try. If we really get a means of transportation, it would save us a lot of effort." After speaking, he and Cong Xia looked at Cheng Tianbi together.
They were all waiting for Cheng Tianbi's decision, the decisive thought.
Cheng Tianbi remained silent for two seconds. "We won't go."
The two nodded. "Understood. Let's go." Although they felt some regret, the risks involved were too great. It wouldn't be worth it if one of them got injured.
Abu the Ragdoll cat slowly approached, carrying Zhuang Yao. Zhuang Yao asked, "What's the decision?"
Cheng Tianbi succinctly replied, "We won't go."
Zhuang Yao's expression remained unchanged; instead, he smiled. "You're all such cowards. You've disappointed me. It seems I'll have to find someone else."
Cheng Tianbi ignored him and said to the other two, "Let's go inside the hospital."
The three turned their backs and walked towards the hospital.
"Hey, the shortest one." Zhuang Yao called out, "Regardless, thanks for the delicious sausages. Here, take this." He threw the black box from his hand towards Cong Xia, who reached out and caught it.
Cheng Tianbi shouted, "Cong Xia!"
It happened so fast. The normally gentle Ragdoll cat suddenly lowered its head and bit onto Cong Xia's backpack. Cong Xia, weighing just over 60 kilograms, was like a small fish in its mouth. It grabbed Cong Xia and swiftly leaped forward.
"Cong Xia!" Cheng Tianbi pulled out his gun and unhesitatingly fired several shots at Abu. The bullets either missed or got stuck in Abu's thick fur, losing their trace.
Within a second, Cong Xia was lifted to a height of five or six meters. With Abu's rapid running, the ground beneath their feet swiftly receded. Cong Xia, still shaken, held tightly onto the backpack strap. If he were to be thrown off now, he would either die or end up severely disabled.
In a daze, he heard Zhuang Yao shout, "Three kilometers northwest, meet at the movie theater!"
38 Global Evolution
Zhuang Yao's gaze gently swept across the faces of the three people. He could determine their level of interest based on the changes in their facial muscles and the dilation of their pupils.
Liu Fengyu waved his fist and said, "Stop talking nonsense. I warn you, if you dare to play any tricks, I'll turn you into bones."
Zhuang Yao didn't take his threat seriously at all and replied in a cheerful tone, "Currently, the known types of mutations have been classified into three categories by Beijing: evolution, hybrids, and atavism. Based on my own research and the intercepted conversations from Beijing, I further subdivided them. Evolution can be divided into natural force manipulation evolution and latent gene potential evolution. Hybrids can be categorized as animal hybrids and plant hybrids. As for atavism, it is much more diverse, including mammalian atavism, amphibian atavism, fish atavism, avian atavism, invertebrate, mollusk, arthropod, sponge, and so on. Any species that has been involved in the evolution of life is likely to become a direction for human atavism. Originally, it couldn't be confirmed whether the human genome carries the genetic codes of so many species. However, the marvelous thing is that this world has gone mad, and anything is possible."
Cheng Tianbi squinted his eyes and said, "Go on."
Zhuang Yao smiled and continued, "Natural force manipulation evolution, just like you, has tremendous potential. Once you grow up, your combat power will be immeasurable. The most recent information I received mentioned that there are already two natural force manipulators in Beijing, one with fire energy evolution. With a wave of their hand, they can demolish a building. I'm really looking forward to seeing the effects of your growth. Ah, then there's latent gene potential evolution, which focuses mainly on the evolution of human abilities, such as visual evolution, auditory evolution, olfactory evolution, hair evolution, the most common being strength evolution, and the rarest being brain domain evolution. Natural force manipulators and those with brain domain evolution are considered the rarest and most precious types of evolvers. I heard there are already several of them in Beijing."
Everything Zhuang Yao said matched exactly with what they knew, even more comprehensive than what the Chief of Staff had mentioned. It made them have to believe that this child could truly intercept information from Beijing.
Zhuang Yao looked at them proudly and said, "Now let's talk about hybrids. Hybrids are the most interesting to me. I spent several years studying genetic fusion and modification, but unfortunately, our country only has one gene sequencing instrument, and I've only seen it once, and they didn't even let me touch it. Given enough time, I'm sure I can develop modified humans. However, hybrid humans are obviously far more perfect than genetic fusion between animals and plants. Not only can they merge the abilities, consciousness, and habits of both parties, but they can also freely transform between the two forms. It's truly a miracle of creation." Zhuang Yao's eyes showed admiration as he spoke.
His wisdom, completely surpassing his age, sent shivers down people's spines.
"Hybrids are truly fascinating. You are a Giant King Flower (Corpse flower) hybrid, and I've also seen a Banyan Tree hybrid. Besides plant hybrids, animal hybrids are even more intriguing."
"Animal hybrids..." Liu Fengyu murmured.
"What? You haven't seen one yet? That's a pity. There was once a human and black bear hybrid in Guiyang. He was a young and powerful male bear in the zoo. He was really formidable. It's a shame I didn't get to study him enough." Zhuang Yao shook his head, expressing regret.
"Anyway, if you have a chance to encounter an animal hybrid, I kindly advise you not to conflict with them. Because based on the current state of evolution, both natural force and genetic evolution progress relatively slowly, plant hybrids vary in quality, while animal hybrids have innate physical advantages and are the strongest fighters among humans."
Cong Xia nodded and said, "I can imagine."
"As for atavism, there aren't many of them. I have only seen one mammalian atavism, and it was quite impressive, although not as different as an animal hybrid. Also, there's one more thing that's very interesting." Zhuang Yao revealed a mysterious smile. "Do you think the evolution of animals and plants is just about getting bigger?"
Zhuang Yao smiled and said, "That's right. All the evolutionary characteristics of humans can potentially manifest in animals and plants. I caught a reversion mouse, and it's really fun. It's in my laboratory. However, the probability of animals and plants undergoing mutations similar to humans is almost as low as that of humans. Most animals and plants just become larger and gain stronger survival abilities. The higher the level and complexity of a species, the lower the probability and slower the speed of mutation. I think this is nature's punishment for humans, punishing us for evolving too quickly, advancing too far, and leaving all other species far behind. So now everything is reversed, and those lower species are evolving at a crazy speed, while humans, who were at the forefront of evolution, have become the slowest to evolve. It's truly... amazing."
Cong Xia concealed his inner shock and asked, "Are you saying that the more complex and advanced an animal is, the slower it evolves?"
"Isn't it obvious? After the apocalypse, what species has the highest mortality rate? Humans. Because humans didn't progress along with the environment, at least the vast majority didn't. We have been abandoned. According to my statistics, less than two months after the earthquake, the death toll in Guiyang reached fifty percent. In just over a month, over 2 billion people worldwide vanished. That is the power of nature, or should I say, the power of the Cambrian."
The power of the Cambrian!
The three of them widened their eyes and almost spoke in unison, "What do you mean?"
Zhuang Yao chuckled and said, "Want to know? Then help me with something."
Cong Xia clenched his fist and asked, "Are you implying that you know the cause of the apocalypse?"
"I can't be certain at the moment, but I believe it's not far from the result of my speculation. Everything has a cause and effect. If we can't find the cause and effect of something, it's only because of factors such as time and space that prevent us from finding it, but it doesn't mean it doesn't exist. The occurrence of earthquakes, the advent of the apocalypse, all have reasons. It's not man-made, but it's still related to human actions. I can tell you my speculative result, but after revealing so much information, shouldn't you help me retrieve something as a repayment?"
Cong Xia and Liu Fengyu hesitated, but Cheng Tianbi remained resolute. "I won't go." Although the information was important, their top priority was to reach Beijing safely.
Zhuang Yao saw the dynamics among the three and looked at Cheng Tianbi. "I know you're heading to Beijing. I can help you."
Cheng Tianbi stared coldly at him. "You know everything?"
"Don't use your intelligence to speculate about me. Those who escaped from the west and passed through Guiyang on their way have two main destinations: the southern islands, mainly Hainan and Taiwan, and the three provinces in the east. All three of you have a northern accent, so it's highly likely that you're going north. Even if your destination is the three provinces in the east, you'll definitely want to make a detour to Beijing because everyone is filled with anticipation for the food and safe environment that the capital might have. So, is it wrong for me to say that you're going to Beijing?"
Cong Xia said, "That's right. What kind of help can you provide?"
"Satellite navigation maps, compressed food, medicine, and... transportation."
"Transportation?" The three of them couldn't help but be tempted. Even if they traveled without rest, encountered no dangers along the way, and walked to Beijing, it
would still take two months. But at their current speed, they might not even make it in half a year. If they had transportation, everything would be different.
Liu Fengyu asked, "Is it a flying vehicle?"
"No, it's not. Even if it could fly, you wouldn't dare to ride it. You haven't witnessed how terrifying the things that fly in the sky can be. I have designed a four-wheel drive vehicle that runs on a mixture of solar energy and gasoline. The tires are as tall as a person, enough to handle most rough terrains. The speed is average, but it's sufficient for transportation," Zhuang Yao explained.
"Now I'm curious about what could be so important in that movie theater that you're willing to exchange it for such a vehicle," Liu Fengyu questioned.
Zhuang Yao calmly responded, "A generator. That IMX3D cinema has the largest non-industrial generator in Guiyang. I want to bring it back home. My homemade generator is too small and can't meet my needs. Of course, I'll need to modify it when I bring it back. The efficiency is a bit low." He rolled up his sleeves, revealing his fair and slender arms, and a hint of excitement appeared on his face, giving him a touch of childlike innocence.
Cong Xia couldn't help but ask, "What are you... really doing?"
Zhuang Yao replied, "It's hard for me to explain to someone as intelligent as you."
Cheng Tianbi interjected, "What dangerous things could be in the movie theater? Also, we want to see the vehicle first."
"There's a large gecko living in the movie theater. It's over four meters long. Although it may not be as big as the evolved cats and dogs, its speed is extremely astonishing. It can climb walls and attack from various angles. Its toe pads have evolved millions of tiny steel hairs, allowing it to stand firmly on any surface. Just a touch of its claws can strip off a layer of skin. It's not easy to deal with. But with our cooperation, I believe we can retreat safely. As for the generator, it's heavy. Even if I can defeat the gecko, I still need help to transport it back. As for seeing the vehicle, no problem, I'll take you to see it."
Liu Fengyu turned to the other two and asked, "Can we trust this guy? He offended us before."
Cong Xia pondered for a moment and said, "It's worth a try. If he's lying, we can leave at any time."
Cheng Tianbibi spoke solemnly, "If we enter the gecko's lair, it won't be so easy to leave."
Cong Xia replied, "Tianbi, are you suggesting that we shouldn't go? I'm also hesitant, but his offer is indeed tempting. I can't make up my mind."
Tianbi addressed Zhuang Yao, "Step back 100 meters. We need to discuss."
Zhuang Yao sneered, "No problem." He patted Abu's head and said, "Let's go."
"Hold on." Cong Xia raised the small black box and threw it towards Zhuang Yao. "I don't trust your things. Who knows what's inside? Take it back for now. When we reach your place, I want to open it and see."
Although he knew his knowledge couldn't match Zhuang Yao's, he had a background in engineering and enjoyed dismantling and reassembling things since he was young. He was familiar with various mechanisms and electronic devices. If there was some kind of detonation device or tracking device inside the black box, he would be able to identify it. Considering that Zhuang Yao intercepted military information, who knows if he would "research" them by placing a listening device or something else on them.
Zhuang Yao took the black box, somewhat surprised, and raised an eyebrow. "You're a bit smarter than I imagined."
Cong Xia didn't feel any joy from the compliment. His mind was filled with the decision they had to make.
After Zhuang Yao walked away, Cheng Tianbibi said, "Let's consider the worst-case scenario."
Liu Fengyu said, "The worst-case scenario is obvious. He's using us as bait for the gecko."
Cong Xia nodded, "Exactly, the worst possibility is that he wants to take advantage of us while we face the gecko alone."
Liu Fengyu added, "But what if we can defeat the gecko? Wouldn't that eliminate the worst threat?"
Cheng Tianbi contemplated, "Under the premise of absolute force, conspiracies seem meaningless. So it seems that as long as we can defeat the gecko, all risks cease to exist. However, this kid's cunning is deeper than we imagined. I'm afraid facing the gecko isn't our worst-case scenario."
Cong Xia agreed, "I'm also concerned about that."
"So, should we refuse?" Liu Fengyu felt a sense of disappointment, thinking about the valuable things they could potentially obtain.
Cheng Tianbi looked at Cong Xia, "What do you think?"
Cong Xia replied, "I'm not strong in combat. It will be you guys who fight on the front lines. I don't have the authority to make decisions. I'll follow your lead."
Cheng Tianbi turned to Liu Fengyu, "And you?"
Liu Fengyu clenched his teeth, "I want to give it a try. If we really get a means of transportation, it would save us a lot of effort." After speaking, he and Cong Xia looked at Cheng Tianbi together.
They were all waiting for Cheng Tianbi's decision, the decisive thought.
Cheng Tianbi remained silent for two seconds. "We won't go."
The two nodded. "Understood. Let's go." Although they felt some regret, the risks involved were too great. It wouldn't be worth it if one of them got injured.
Abu the Ragdoll cat slowly approached, carrying Zhuang Yao. Zhuang Yao asked, "What's the decision?"
Cheng Tianbi succinctly replied, "We won't go."
Zhuang Yao's expression remained unchanged; instead, he smiled. "You're all such cowards. You've disappointed me. It seems I'll have to find someone else."
Cheng Tianbi ignored him and said to the other two, "Let's go inside the hospital."
The three turned their backs and walked towards the hospital.
"Hey, the shortest one." Zhuang Yao called out, "Regardless, thanks for the delicious sausages. Here, take this." He threw the black box from his hand towards Cong Xia, who reached out and caught it.
Cheng Tianbi shouted, "Cong Xia!"
It happened so fast. The normally gentle Ragdoll cat suddenly lowered its head and bit onto Cong Xia's backpack. Cong Xia, weighing just over 60 kilograms, was like a small fish in its mouth. It grabbed Cong Xia and swiftly leaped forward.
"Cong Xia!" Cheng Tianbi pulled out his gun and unhesitatingly fired several shots at Abu. The bullets either missed or got stuck in Abu's thick fur, losing their trace.
Within a second, Cong Xia was lifted to a height of five or six meters. With Abu's rapid running, the ground beneath their feet swiftly receded. Cong Xia, still shaken, held tightly onto the backpack strap. If he were to be thrown off now, he would either die or end up severely disabled.
In a daze, he heard Zhuang Yao shout, "Three kilometers northwest, meet at the movie theater!"
