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"The exit has been opened, but here's the question: On the first day, didn't you say there was no need for further experiments?" Su stood beside Zeke, controlling the portal to the Sea of Quanta, and asked calmly.
Zeke looked at him briefly, his hand forming a leaf-shaped data fragment, which contained the quantum coordinates for Cosmic Juggernaut. He replied, "I only said I didn't require research related to authority manipulation. When did I mention not needing other types of experiments?"
"Fair enough. You're the emperor; your word stands." Su smiled warmly, refraining from asking any more questions.
Next, Zeke turned towards Kevin, who was drinking tea by the stone table. "I trust your rationality, but just to be certain, you won't forcefully attempt to return to the real world while I'm away, would you?"
Holding a teacup in one hand, Kevin casually flicked the Greatsword of Destruction with the other, sending it spinning through the air. The flaming greatsword swiftly embedded itself upright next to Zeke's feet.
"Take this, just in case," Kevin suggested, his gaze steady as he addressed the white-robed youth before him, bearing many resemblances to himself.
Though not explicitly stated, Kevin's actions made clear his choice.
Having observed for some time, Kevin realized that this era's military strength likely didn't lag far behind that of the previous one. Moreover, even if he forcefully returned to the real world, Zeke undoubtedly had means to follow him. With Su and Hua firmly supporting Zeke as well, Kevin knew he held no advantage. Without the power to advance Project Stigma, opposing Zeke would be sheer recklessness.
Zeke grasped the sword hilt, and its blade promptly vanished from his hand.
"Stay put; it won't be long. I'll have the real world send over more supplies. Enjoy this temporary respite; once we return, I'll make full use of you."
"If it's about combating Honkai, I can fully cooperate with you. However, consider carefully—Project Stigma remains the most feasible plan currently available. The human-aligned outliers are formidable, including yourself, but compared to our ultimate enemy, we're still insignificant."
"I agree that Project Stigma is feasible, but the cost is too high—it's an all-or-nothing gamble. Unless absolutely necessary, I cannot abandon the situation we've meticulously built thus far. This plan will serve as one of the backup options; that's the extent of my commitment."
"Understood. I believe there will come a day when you face reality and choose to utilize it, but..."
Kevin lowered his head, gazing at the calm surface of his tea, leaving the rest unspoken.
However, if possible, he genuinely hoped this plan would remain merely as a contingency measure. He yearned deeply for the day humans truly triumph over Honkai—a long-cherished aspiration shared by Kevin, Mei, and countless warriors from the previous civilization.
Su understood the unsaid sentiment, and Zeke also guessed its general meaning.
Nevertheless, Zeke didn't delve further into the topic and instead turned to Su, asking:
"What about Fu Hua?"
"She's saying goodbye to Little Fuxi. By the way, are you sure not bringing her along is wise?"
"The Sea of Quanta isn't a leisurely beach; anything can happen. Given Little Fuxi's limited abilities, it's best not to expose her to such risks."
"You're right. Then please wait a bit longer. At least give Little Fuxi some time; she undoubtedly has much to discuss with Fu Hua and Senti before feeling reassured."
Su envisioned the Book of Fuxi nagging their old friend like a parent sending off a child on a journey, which brought both amusement and a sense of warmth tinged with envy. After fifty thousand years, seeing their old friend have such caring companions was truly heartwarming.
Inside Fu Hua's room, the Book of Fuxi sat atop her head, directing her to pack a modest-sized luggage bag. After surveying their surroundings one last time to ensure nothing was left behind, it sighed.
"Let's take just these essentials. I trust Zeke won't neglect your basic needs. Ahh, honestly, without me around, you two must get along well and take care of yourselves."
"Alright, thank you, Little Fuxi." Fu Hua gently lifted both hands to carefully cradle the tiny doll from her head.
The Book of Fuxi, seated on Fu Hua's palms with its own hands tucked inside its sleeves, gazed intently at her. After a moment, it waved dismissively as if unimpressed, saying:
"That's enough. Call Senti over; there's something important I need to tell her."
"Of course."
Fu Hua smiled slightly, and her azure eyes transformed into crimson.
"Little Fuxi, oh Little Fuxi, is there something you want to say to me? Are you feeling reluctant to let me go? Or worried about the Old Antique getting into trouble? Don't fret, I'm here—I'll protect our dear Old Antique!"
Senti eagerly held the Book of Fuxi close, grinning as she nuzzled her face against its small cheeks.
As Senti continued her affectionate gestures, the Book of Fuxi gradually displayed a deadpan expression. Protect Fu Hua? With your reckless nature, just managing to keep your own behind safe from Zeke would be nothing short of miraculous.
After a moment, it gently pushed Senti's face aside and said sternly, "Alright, that's enough. Listen carefully, what I'm about to tell you is crucial; make sure you remember it clearly!"
"Oh, Little Fuxi, what do you want to say?"
"Once we're outside, you must follow Zeke's instructions without question. Do exactly as he says. Additionally, if there are any decisions you need to make on your own, always consult with the Stubborn Mule first—do not act impulsively!"
"Huh? But why... Agh!" The Book of Fuxi reached out and pinched Senti's cheek.
With those tiny hands gripping just a sliver of flesh, coupled with Senti's fear of resisting—it hurt like crazy!
Finally, the Book of Fuxi released its grip, maintaining a serious expression amidst Senti's feeling of grievance.
"I'm not joking with you. Yes, Zeke has accepted your presence, but largely due to that stubborn one's influence. As for his actual impression of you, it may not be favorable. You've witnessed his power already; I know you're unconvinced, but setting aside whether you could truly defeat him or not, he is becoming a unique being embodying the Collective Civilization's Authorities. No matter how formidable you might be, you cannot surpass such strength. To put it bluntly, his perception of you directly impacts your future standing and even relates to your survival."
Senti opened her mouth, attempting to counter, yet she understood all too well the truth in the Book of Fuxi's words, leaving her speechless.
The Book of Fuxi sighed deeply and continued earnestly:
"Those Anti-Entropy children grew up alongside Zeke, and their paths were partly shaped by his plans, which made their acceptance smooth. For Ana Schariac, despite her own inadequacies, Otto vouched for her. Regardless of how much you dislike Otto, you must admit his influence is unparalleled, thus allowing Ana's acceptance as well."
As the Book of Fuxi meticulously analyzed the situation, it also rubbed its temples, concern evident, before proceeding:
"However, your case is unique. Your strength far surpasses those girls, and your awakening was unexpected. Under these circumstances, it would be strange if Zeke could easily trust you. This mission, supposedly to assist him, likely also serves as an opportunity to evaluate you further."
The Book of Fuxi tried to discern Zeke's intentions, but amidst Senti's obedient and attentive expression, it couldn't gauge how much she truly understood. After a moment of hesitation, Fuxi finally said:
"In any case, during this outing, you must strive to demonstrate yourself diligently. Senti, I hope you realize that if Zeke holds biases against you, it will put the stubborn one in a difficult position between you two. Don't make things hard for them, and more importantly, for your own sake, promise me - can you please listen carefully?"
Fuxi gently caressed Senti's face, eyes filled with warmth and concern.
Senti pouted but slowly nodded.
"Fine, I get it. I'll just have to bear with it."
Despite her defiant nature and reluctance to yield, Senti could sense the deep care and worry from the Book of Fuxi. Additionally, she had noticed how over the past few days, the Old Antique subtly spoke highly of her in front of others, seemingly by design or coincidence.
For their sake, Senti could indeed make some compromises.
Both the Book of Fuxi and Fu Hua within her consciousness domain breathed a sigh of relief simultaneously.
Then, the Book of Fuxi floated up and gently tapped Senti's forehead.
"All right, I've said my piece. Stay safe on your journey, return swiftly, and remember: I'll be waiting here for you all to come home together."
"Deal!" they both replied enthusiastically.