Chapter 106: Before the Meeting Begins

Quite some time had passed, but the events of that day were still vivid in the Gatekeeper’s memory.

Heroes eligible for A-level promotion were few, and back then, it was a slight oversight on his part. After receiving the notification, he failed to check the basic information of the candidates. As a result, he mistakenly attacked Shi Ji, thinking he was the female candidate, Xinyan.

This attack ended disastrously for him. He was utterly defeated with no chance to retaliate, even though he fully utilized his Chariot rank star constitution’s advantages. 

While in the hospital, the Gatekeeper mulled over the incident and eventually realized he had mistaken his target. Looking back, it was quite laughable.

The Gatekeeper never imagined he would encounter Shi Ji here today.

His own strength met the A-level minimum standard, and Shi Ji’s easy victory over him was a testament to Shi Ji’s capabilities. Now, seeing Shi Ji again, the Gatekeeper’s usual boisterousness vanished, and he calmed down immediately.

Shi Ji didn’t utter a single disparaging word towards the Gatekeeper.

Noticing the Gatekeeper’s sudden calmness, Auntie Cai was a bit puzzled.

“Hey? Brother Gatekeeper, what’s wrong with you?”

The Gatekeeper, feeling embarrassed, scratched his head and laughed awkwardly.

“Oh, it’s nothing, nothing. Let’s hurry, the meeting is about to start. Haha!”

With that, the Gatekeeper led the way. He was too embarrassed to recount the incident. Had it not been for proper hospital treatment, he might still be bedridden.

At this moment, Lin Xinyan was covering her mouth, giggling. She knew exactly why the Gatekeeper had calmed down so suddenly.

“Xinyan, what are you laughing at?”

“Huh? Nothing, nothing. Let’s go.”

***

The Star Alliance had different pathways for heroes based on their ranks. S and A-level heroes shared one path, while B and C-level heroes each had their own. The closer one sat to the front in the main hall, the higher their rank.

If possible, Lin Xinyan wanted Shi Ji to attend the meeting. However, regulations were strict, and Shi Ji was stopped by the staff at the entrance of the meeting hall.

“Xinyan, you go ahead. I’ll wait for you here,” Shi Ji said calmly.

Lin Xinyan felt a mix of regret and apology.

“Ah, I’m sorry. I’ll treat you to something later.”

Auntie Cai was a bit confused. Due to time constraints, she hadn’t asked about Shi Ji’s identity, assuming he was another hero from a different city since Xinyan brought him along. But now…

“So, little brother, you’re not a hero,” Auntie Cai said, surprised.

Shi Ji chuckled, “Hehe, no, I’m not.”

Auntie Cai didn’t mock him but kindly pointed towards a spot, “There’s a lounge over there. You can wait for Xinyan there.”

Shi Ji nodded, “Thanks, Sister Cai.”

Auntie Cai was used to being called Auntie Cai, but hearing “Sister Cai” made her feel pleasantly flattered.

“You have such a sweet tongue, little brother.”

“Hehe!”

Lin Xinyan said, “Shi Ji, wait for me there. I’ll come find you as soon as the meeting is over and fill you in on the details.”

Just then, an unfriendly voice interrupted.

“If it’s a hero meeting, there’s no room for bringing family members. Heroes are symbols of justice and must always set an example. New hero Xinyan, you should stick to your responsibilities.”