Chapter 193: The Picture and the Secret Conversations

"What? What is that thing?" he muttered.

But as his Keen Sense skill sharpened, the truth became clear.

Kai gripped the handlebars, debating whether to drive straight toward the man.

"Huh?" Kai frowned as he realized that the man had incredibly stealth abilities, probably similar to what Mei had.

It was strange, unsettling even. Without wasting time, he pulled out his radio and informed Haven‑45.

With that warning delivered, Kai revved the motorbike and continued his journey.

At this point, with almost everyone equipped with a rifle, with some of them even having clearance to use the remaining Plasma Rifles, Kai wouldn’t have to worry about their safety.

***

He felt relieved seeing the unharmed shelter as his senses confirmed the farmers were still tending Aurora’s modified crops.

Just as Kai approached the gate, Noli, one of the freed slaves he had rescued, rushed forward. He seemed quite excited.

Kai recognized it instantly. It was Aurora’s digi‑cam, bought from the Gene Trader’s miscellaneous items. He smiled, intrigued at the sudden report.

"Wait... Is it foggy or near the swamp?" Kai asked.

If not for the Global Event, he would’ve dealt with the man.

"That’s great. Let me check the pictures later..." Kai said as he planned to visit the vault first. He needed to provide them with better supplies that they could use against the A.I. Soldiers.

Kai then entered the shelter with Noli, who also left immediately, saying he was so sleepy.

Just ahead, Mei was lounging under the sun...

It sounded light and carefree... like music in his ears.

’This...’

Though he wasn’t expecting a hug from her, he was at least hopeful to hear her welcome his safe return.

Right, she was interacting with the system!

Mei flinched, startled at the sudden familiar voice.

Kai chuckled, shaking his head. "Noise? The gate was literally opened just now. Anyway, I thought you’d sense me before anyone else."

"I was distracted. I’m using the Guild Chat." Her tone carried excitement. "Ohhh... By the way, just a few more and we’ll complete the first Guild Mission!"

Mei nodded. "Yeah... We know. We’re now talking about something else. Don’t open the Guild Chat, okay?"

"Yes! Don’t open it," Mei said, using the best angry face she could make.

"Yes! That jetpack and that grappling hook... I want those, Kai!" Mei said as she already saw everyone in the Guild Chat talking about them.

"Got it... You can take them to the warehouse later." Kai replied with a wave of his hand before he left the courtyard.

***

The Guild Chat was buzzing with activity, but this time the conversation wasn’t about missions or supplies.

Mei smiled as she saw everyone’s reaction.

For some time, she scrolled through the messages, reading their ideas...

[ Claire: He deserves something symbolic, maybe a statue? I’m quite good with my hands. Should we try sculpting his face on a block of wood first? ]

As soon as Mei said this, everyone suddenly received a notification.