Chapter 116: Secrets

“For so many years, when have I ever suffered such humiliation? Trash? That brat is going to pay. And Xinyan, she thinks being a hero is easy, huh? Just lucked her way to A-level and now acts all superior. This needs to be corrected. Just you wait.”

***

After leaving the Star Alliance, Shi Ji and Lin Xinyan found a place to eat. During their meal, Xinyan shared everything discussed at the meeting with Shi Ji.

According to her, recently, energy fluctuations have started increasing, causing many anomalies to appear in various places. Thankfully, heroes were able to respond quickly and eliminate the threats, preventing significant harm to the public. The appearance of that Nether-level anomaly in Yinshuang Academy last night was a prime example.

In the coming days, heroes must stay vigilant, constantly monitoring messages from the Star Alliance and the Detection Center, ready to act at any moment.

Black Dragon had also told Lin Xinyan that even though she was a student at Yinshuang Academy, she was primarily an A-level hero. She must prioritize the bigger picture in all matters. This applied to all Yinshuang Academy heroes. Therefore, she could temporarily forego academy activities. The Star Alliance had already informed the academy of this.

Shi Ji’s philosophy was always straightforward–just do it. Initially, he didn’t pay much attention, but after Lin Xinyan’s warnings, he had no choice but to listen.

“Don’t worry, I’ll protect you when the time comes,” Shi Ji finally said.

Hearing that Shi Ji would protect her made Lin Xinyan feel warm and happy. However…

“No, no, your duty is to protect the people. Heroes serve the greater good.”

“No, no, protecting you is the most important thing. The people? It depends on who they are,” Shi Ji replied, his tone suddenly turning somber as he lowered his head. “If you can’t even protect the ones closest to you, what right do you have to protect others? I used to think like you, but the results…”

Suddenly, Shi Ji looked up and laughed awkwardly. “Hehe, sorry, I went off track.”

Shi Ji was clearly someone with a story. His views on heroes and the public often hinted at deeper experiences. Lin Xinyan was naturally curious, but she didn’t pry, knowing it might make Shi Ji uncomfortable. Everyone has their little secrets.

“Alright, I won’t tell you who to protect. Just take down as many anomalies as you can when you see them. Let’s eat.”

***

After leaving the restaurant, Shi Ji glanced around.

“Oh, I need to use the restroom.”

Lin Xinyan nodded, “Sure, go ahead.”

With that, Shi Ji turned and jogged off, pretending to be in a hurry.

Lin Xinyan already knew what he was up to.

Even though the restaurant’s restroom was just behind them and the staff wouldn’t mind him using it, Shi Ji insisted on running further away.

She looked around and sighed helplessly. “Oh well, if I can’t control him, I won’t try. A little lesson might be good.”

***

After leaving, Shi Ji intentionally walked toward a less crowded alley, eventually turning into a dead-end.

He walked forward with light steps until he reached the end of the alley and stopped near the wall.

“Alright, come out and take your beating.”