Chapter 19

Chapter 19: The Sea Without Light

“Inherited bloodline of the ancient deities?” Kui Xin found this idea preposterous.

Is there such a thing as a cult in this world? She had not yet had the chance to delve into such knowledge. When she returned, she would do some research on this topic.

“They hold this belief themselves,” Xueyao Shu said. “Xenomorphs have existed since ancient times, evidenced by numerous folk tales. However, there is no denying that xenomorphs differ significantly from the creatures we commonly encounter in nature—their existence seems almost impossible within our planet’s realm.”

“Indeed… Their appearance is too grotesque,” Kui Xin commented, “I might lose my appetite over lunch.”

“The federal government enacted a law thirty years ago, declaring all forms of religious beliefs and groups illegal. The age of ignorance is gone; once, people worshiped nature, believing some divine entity ruled over everything. Now, scientific progress has dispelled that darkness, and humanity needs science, not divine guidance, to move forward,” said Xueyao Shu. “However, various secret cults persist, resilient despite our efforts. If they were content with their lot, the Investigation Bureau would struggle to find them, but these cults never learn to remain silent.”

Kui Xin looked down at the figure lying on the floor of the cell and asked, “He is affiliated with the secret cult?”

“Yes,” answered Shu, “A week ago, the field operation team’s Third Squad raided their gathering site, where he was participating in a ritual involving the Divine Blood with several other cult members at the time.” There was a hint of sarcasm in his smile. “Everyone was apprehended and not just him.”

“Do all hetero-blooded individuals undergo bodily mutations?” Kui Xin observed the prisoners, “He does not look like he will live very long. Could it be that all hetero-blooded have short lifespans?”

Shu pondered her question. “The Investigation Bureau keeps detailed records on apprehended hetero-blooded individuals. According to the data collected, all such individuals exhibit physical anomalies to varying degrees. This one, for example, only displays moderate changes.”

“I wonder how repulsive severe deformations must be,” Kui Xin murmured.

“These records can be accessed through Augus,” Shu added. “There are photos and video documentation of the mutation process. Just don’t view them before or after meals—either you lose your appetite, or you throw up.”

Kui Xin nodded her thanks, saying, “Thanks for the advice, Captain.”

“As for the lifespan of hetero-blooded individuals, it hasn’t been the subject of extensive study here. All captured hetero-blooded end up dying within a month,” he explained, “This transformation is irreversible. Both physicians and the prisoners themselves watch helplessly as their bodies become deformed monsters, unrecognizable.”

“How terrifying… did they achieve extraordinary abilities at such cost?” Kui Xin asked.

“Perhaps they did,” said Shu. “Observations and experiments revealed that hetero-blooded individuals recover remarkably quickly from injuries—quicker even than high-tier Awakened who possess superior physical qualities. They also have increased strength—twice or three times that of an ordinary person. These data come from hetero-blooded individuals caught by us, and the price they pay for these abilities is an accelerated decline in life expectancy and severe bodily deformation. From what we’ve recorded so far, they have not developed diverse superhuman abilities like Awakened did; instead, they see improvements in basic body functions.”

“Have any hetero-blooded managed to live full lives?” Kui Xin questioned. “Their sacrifices hardly match up with what they gain. Why do they continue to consume the Divine Blood despite this?”

“People who believe in science cannot comprehend the zealotry of believers. Perhaps to them, the sacrifice is worthwhile,” Shu responded. “It is possible some individuals consumed the Divine Blood and survived. Those under interrogation hold onto this belief, convinced the reason for their failure is divine neglect. They believe their death is a tribute through flesh and spirit to the ancient deities, aiding in the awakening of slumbering gods.”

Kui Xin pondered, “Uncertain if surviving individuals achieved unique abilities like Awakened. Can we capture and interrogate one?”

“Hard to catch—these sects excel at hiding. Leaders never reveal themselves openly,” remarked Shu, his expression darkening. “Which means every captive and sect member we’ve intercepted are merely minor figures or peripheral members at best. The core remains unseen.”

Kui Xin was greatly surprised upon hearing this.

As a governmental institution, the Investigation Bureau wielded considerable power. With Super AI Adam’s capabilities, rapid identification of suspects through citywide surveillance could be achieved. For necessary tasks, Adam could remotely control drones to trace someone’s movements online, assisting the Bureau in constructing a comprehensive surveillance network.

Inside the Bureau, skilled Awakening individuals—including high-tier ones—abounded, yet the core members of the secret cult seemed out of reach.

“Your probationary training is almost complete, Kui Xin,” Shu turned to face her gravely. “You will uphold city security, eradicate xenomorphs, and confront shadowy forces. Each day ahead, you must fulfill your duties as a Security Officer.”

With unwavering hope, Kui Xin replied with a smile, “I’ll manage, Captain.”

Performing duties required situational judgment, dying while doing so was an absolute no-no. Surviving entailed letting others take the lead in perilous situations, observing the scenario before making another move.

“We’re done here,” said Shu after a silence.

Back at the elevator, Kui Xin continued her contemplations.

Xeno-blooded, Awakened—the distinction between the two roles involved differing powers.

Recalling her Game System’s description on Removers: “They obtain power through hunting special ability holders, taking their extraordinary abilities.”

Could it mean she could still deprive an xeno-blooded individual of their abilities upon killing them?

“Aren’t you thinking about xenomorphs again?” Shu’s voice broke the silence.

“No. I’m wondering how much my salary might increase after the probation period,” Kui Xin answered.

“…I see.”

“Captain,” Kui Xin met his gaze, “How does one become an Awakened?”

“One must be tremendously fortunate,” Shu replied. “There is no set pattern for the emergence of an Awakened. Sometimes it occurs just after sleep; sometimes a major traumatic event triggers it. There are no guarantees, though I am not an Awakened myself.”

“On cue, I’ll ask—who among the Bureau is an Awakening?” Curiosity piqued slightly. “Many?”

Maintaining a measured curiosity, appropriate questioning would not arouse suspicion. Asking questions made logical sense given human nature; it was natural to gossip with superiors.

He didn’t answer her. “Strictly confidential, but you will know when you’re promoted to captain.”

Kui Xin smiled. “Then I’ll work towards reaching captain’s rank.”

At lunch, Kui Xin deliberately avoided red and green foods in the staff canteen to avoid any negative associations that might affect her appetite.

She still ate little, mechanically chewing and swallowing, forcing herself to eat enough for the afternoon training.

Training went swiftly.

She conducted basic martial arts and shooting drills before starting her weight-lifting run. The load left her exhausted, drenched in sweat, her vision fading into white spots.

To her surprise, the coach said, “Remarkable willpower! You did so well on your first test, finishing the five-kilometer run with ease. Want to try another eight kilometers? Come on, don’t give me that glare; why not challenge yourself?”

“We’ll see… We’ve got a group meeting in half an hour,” Kui Xin said with fragmented breath.

Reluctantly, the coach stepped back.

New recruits were guided through specific training routines. Today marked her first day of official training, leaving Kui Xin drained.

She was once terrified of physical education, disliking running, often hoping teachers would cancel it for classwork.

Time passed. Kui Xin, now in survival mode, trained actively.

Sighing, she stood up after three minutes, dragging her feet back to the elevator to prepare for the Rest Room.

She needed a shower, considering how disheveled she appeared in the conference.

She took ten minutes for a shower; her short hair dried quickly. Donning her uniform, Kui Xin rode the elevator to the meeting.

Almost everyone was present. Spotting Lan Lan waving at her, Kui Xin hurried over to take a seat next to the empty spot.

The room accommodated around forty to fifty personnel. Team leaders usually commanded small units of five to seven members, each performing distinct roles.

“This place is packed,” Kui Xin whispered.

Xueyao Shu sat in front, leading his team, maintaining a slight distance.

“The meeting involves all active squads today,” Lan Lan explained.

Liu Kangyun from the front turned and looked at Kui Xin, “Did you finish probationary training?”

“Completed, but the experience is unforgettable…” Kui Xin grimaced, “Even food lost its taste.”

Jiang Ming recently out of hospital stated, “No surprise, everyone goes through adjustment. Things at duty could get worse.”

“True,” sighed Kui Xin.

After pleasantries, all quieted down as the meeting began.

Team leader Wei Zhi walked to the podium, scanning the crowd sharply. Skipping formalities, she got straight to point, “Recent port conflicts increased casualties. The coast security team sustained notable losses. Patrol assignments need reorganization.”

Elite combat units joined the external patrol. Casualties among them were frequent.

Some of the casualties among the coast security squad might be attributed to Silverface since he killed two members of the Six Squad during his investigation.

“The Seventh squad,” Wei Zhi turned to Xueyao Shu, “Starting tomorrow, they’ll operate at the harbor port. Working alongside the fifth and sixth squads from the coast security for shore patrols.”

Xueyao Shu rose for a salute. “Will do, we’ll ensure mission completion.”

Just when sleep strikes, comfort arrives.