S2 Vol. 19 Host - Chapter 66: Tipping point (Gavin) (text translation)

---Part 1---
New person in charge

Spring sunlight streamed through the office windows, falling on the work area piled high with documents and cardboard boxes.

Kasa: There have been many changes at work recently, and some new members have joined the team. Everyone has worked hard.

Kasa: I've ordered some afternoon tea for everyone; it will be served shortly.

Staff: Wow~ Thank you boss.

The acquisition process for Odyssey is almost complete. I took some time to visit the Infinite campus and did some work handover.

After signing all the documents, the game producer accompanied me for a walk in the office area.

Although the server is currently down, the data and subsequent version updates still require maintenance and preparation.

I was initially worried that the internal restructuring and strategy integration would affect employee morale.

But now it seems most people are busy with their own tasks and don't seem anxious about the change in controlling shareholder.

Producer: Ms. Kasa, the handover of the newly recruited employees is basically complete.

Producer: These new planners and programmers are very experienced and have recently been assisting with the internal game reorganization.

Producer: Only the helmet part is still awaiting approval from the relevant department.

Kasa: Okay, you can decide on the personnel arrangements.

Kasa: Send any other less urgent documents to my email address, I will review them gradually.

Producer: Okay... Oh, right.

Producer: The Cybersecurity Bureau has conducted several investigations here before, and some of the investigation procedures will be transferred along with them.

Kasa: Cybersecurity Bureau?

I paused for a moment before remembering that the Cybersecurity Bureau staff had been investigating the matter in Odyssey because of the shadowy figure and the helmet.

Kasa: Are they still investigating crimes related to information flow?

Producer: No, that's not it. They recently requested all the player spawn data stored on our server.

Producer: They said they were going to investigate something... human consciousness?

Kasa: Huh? What is that?

The overly abstract words made my brain freeze for a moment, and the producer smiled somewhat awkwardly.

Producer: I don't know either. I'm just a game developer, and I only learned about this term from a report by the person in charge.

Producer: It's said that some of the people who played our game have become like they've been possessed, completely transformed.

Kasa: Possessed by an evil spirit... Have they become a different person?

Suddenly, I felt that the scenario he described had happened to me many times before.

—And it's not just limited to "Odyssey".

Producer: Yes, they suspect our helmets stimulated brainwaves, so they took the data to investigate.

Producer: We'll just have to wait for their results. Anyway, we've shut down the service; at worst, we'll just go bankrupt.

The producer sighed, his face full of exhaustion and anxiety under immense pressure.

I understand that anxiety—long ago, when Kasa Company was on the verge of collapse, I saw the same face in the mirror every day.

For a moment, I felt a pang of sympathy for the producer I didn't know well.

I reached out and patted his shoulder, speaking solemnly.

Kasa: Don't be too nervous. I know the Cybersecurity Bureau quite well. They're not the kind of organization that can't distinguish right from wrong. I believe they'll give a fair explanation.

The producer gave a self-deprecating smirk, neither confirming nor denying my assurance, and escorted me out of the Infinite campus.

I glanced at the time and felt it was too early to go back to the company.

The words of the Odyssey producer are still echoing in my mind—should I just go and ask the Cybersecurity Bureau?

And incidentally, I can also... surprise that person.

Just thinking about the amber eyes of Officer Gavin when he sees me, eyes that will surely be filled with surprise, makes me smile.

I hailed a taxi and walked towards the door.

Kasa: Hi, I need to go to...

Before I could finish speaking, I suddenly noticed the driver's eyes.

Those were unfamiliar eyes that looked somewhat weathered, but the indifference and scrutiny in their gaze felt very familiar to me.

It's like... being possessed.

Kasa: ....!

I instinctively took half a step back, and almost at the same time, a hand reached out from beside me and supported my waist.

??: Excuse me miss, you'd better not hitch a ride.

The familiar voice made me turn around abruptly, and there stood Gavin beside me. The warmth of his broad palm instantly dispelled the unease that had risen in my heart.

He didn't look at me; instead, he stared intently at the driver.

The spring breeze brushed against his handsome features, only his jawline tightened slightly, forming a sharp arc.

The driver didn't react to Gavin's words at all; he simply turned his head mechanically and silently stepped on the gas.

Gavin watched the taxi drive further and further away, then took out a walkie-talkie from his pocket.

Gavin: F25 is passing the Infinite building and heading towards Penang Road.

After he finished doing all that, he let out a soft sigh, smiled at me, and became the boy I knew best again.

Gavin: I haven't seen you for a long time.

Kasa: Long time no see... no, no, I was just about to come find you!

Surprise and delight spread through my heart at the same time, and I couldn't help but raise my voice.

Gavin: That's a coincidence, I was just about to come and find you.

Gavin gently pulled me into his arms with his hand around my waist.

The familiar scent of soapberry filled my breath, making my heart flutter. A slight vibration came from the chest pressed against my ear, and I heard his soft laughter—|

Gavin: After making inquiries, I finally managed to catch up with the very busy Kasa.

Kasa: Pfft, if you call me that, I'll call you Officer Gavin every day from now on... What do you want from me?

Gavin: I suddenly wanted to see you, so I skipped work when I had some free time.

Gavin: Thank goodness you didn't get into that unlicensed taxi, or we might never have seen each other again.

Kasa: ...

I paused for a moment, then caught a word in his words.

Kasa: Was that a black cab just now?

Gavin: "Black cab" is just my way of putting it. From the Cybersecurity Bureau's perspective... well, how am I supposed to explain this?

Gavin tilted his head slightly, looking unusually troubled.

Gavin: Recently, a strange phenomenon has appeared in Love Land City; many people seem to have changed overnight...

Kasa: Like being "possessed by a ghost"?

Gavin: You know? That's what the people from the Odyssey team told you?

Gavin stared wide-eyed in surprise, and I nodded.

Kasa: Their producer just mentioned it to me, but...

I briefly recounted the strange experiences I had recently had to Gavin, who listened intently, his brows gradually furrowing.

I pursed my lips and tentatively pieced these things together.

Kasa: So, are the strange phenomena that have recently appeared in these people what your Cybersecurity Bureau has been investigating?

Gavin: How do you even know this?

Gavin did not deny my speculation; he nodded seriously.

Gavin: To be precise, we currently call this "parasitic consciousness".

---Part 2---
Parasitic consciousness

"Parasitic". This word, which sounds alarming, becomes even more chilling when placed alongside "consciousness."

The term "parasitic consciousness" is an apt description of those strange people.

I almost instinctively gasped and stammered.

Kasa: So, what is it that's parasitizing them?

Kasa: How do I get rid of... uh, how do I deal with this parasite? If I get parasitized, will I end up like that?

Gavin: We haven't found any results yet; we're still investigating.

Gavin lowered his voice, seemingly apologizing for not being able to answer my question for the time being.

Gavin: In short, if you see someone like that driver recently, be sure to tell me.

I nodded in agreement. Some of my worries were relieved, but then even more questions piled up.

If those people who seem like machines, completely different from their past selves, are all parasitic beings...

My thoughts kept going back to the beginning, and one face after another, with completely different features but the same expression, flashed through my mind...

The driver from earlier, the pairs of eyes staring intently at me during the carnival, the star who suddenly fainted on stage...

And Luke, who pointed a gun at me that night... so he was also a parasitic consciousness.

In the darkness, the black muzzle of Luke's gun suddenly appeared. My grip tightened, and I subconsciously looked at Gavin.

Kasa: What happened to Luke later?

Gavin: ...

Gavin remained silent for a moment, his eyelids slightly lowered, and a glint appeared in his amber eyes.

A shadow fell over him, and when he spoke again, his voice was lower and more subdued.

Gavin: Still under observation within NW.

Kasa: Did you find anything then...

I stopped mid-sentence, stammering.

What nonsense am I talking about? Didn't he just say that everything is under investigation?

Asking this now only adds to Gavin's anxiety and serves no other purpose.

Gavin seemed to sense my frustration. He suddenly let out a breath and tugged at my hand.

Gavin: Let's not talk about this anymore.

Gavin: I still have some time now, but I have a Cybersecurity Bureau meeting later. Would you like me to go sightseeing with you somewhere?

I looked into his carefree, upturned eyes, but deep within those pupils was a palpable weariness and dejection.

I nodded, then shook my head with a smile, deliberately drawing out the last syllable.

Kasa: The staff from "The Odyssey" happened to recommend their favorite dessert shop to me. Shall we go sit there for a bit?

---

Gavin and I sat in the dessert shop, enjoying a rare moment of relaxation.

We tacitly avoided mentioning those troubling matters, and simply chatted casually about the interesting things and gossip that had happened recently.

Our brief, stolen date ended when his phone, which was on the table, rang.

Gavin gave a brief reply on the phone and reluctantly got up.

Gavin: I'll take you back to your company first...

Kasa: Take me to the Cybersecurity Bureau too.

I interrupted him, gently taking his fingers in mine, my fingertips rubbing against the calluses on his thumb.

Kasa: You usually pick me up from get off work, but today I'll wait for you.

A hint of surprise flashed in Gavin's eyes, then his eyebrows curved even more.

Gavin: Otherwise, you shouldn't wait any longer and come to the meeting with me.

Kasa: Huh?

Before I could even understand what Gavin meant by those words, his little black car sped me to the Cybersecurity Bureau.

Gavin led us into the conference room, where, in addition to the employees of the Cybersecurity Bureau, there were also several Odyssey programmers who I had met before.

The other persons were a little surprised when they saw me, but since this was someone else's territory, they just quietly mouthed a greeting to me.

As soon as Gavin and I sat down, a PowerPoint presentation was projected onto the screen, and a somewhat familiar-looking young man began to speak.

I racked my brain and remembered that I had seen him before when I was reporting on the Shadow case. He was Gavin's second-in-command in the Cyber Security Bureau.

Justin: ...Therefore, we are tracing the data fluctuations of this part of the players that have recently appeared in Odyssey.

Kasa: ...?

I was taken aback by the unbelievable news that came right from the start, and instinctively asked a question.

Kasa: Wait a minute, Odyssey shut down over a month ago, so why are there fluctuations in player data recently?

Kasa: Do you know about this?

I looked at the Odyssey programmers across from me with a puzzled expression, only to see them shake their heads firmly.

Programmer: I don't know. After the service was shut down, all login channels were closed, and a robust firewall was installed, making it virtually impossible to hack in.

Programmer: Has Justin made any discoveries?

They're all calling him "Classmate Justin" now. Looks like the people from Odyssey have been invited over by the Cybersecurity Bureau quite a bit lately. I thought to myself.

Justin turned his head and looked at Gavin.

Justin: Officer, may I have the data?

Gavin: Yes, but we must cooperate honestly from now on.

Justin typed on the computer, and soon, piles of code data that I couldn't understand appeared on the screen.

Justin: Our previous investigation focused on programs that were already online, so there was no progress.

Justin: We recently went through the entire codebase of Odyssey and discovered a large amount of active player data within the discarded code.

Programmer: Holy crap, someone bypassed 2FA and OAuth authentication? Really?

The programmer on the other end of the line looked enlightened and quickly started discussing with Justin. I listened to the obscure technical terms and slowly raised my hand.

Kasa: Um, as the current owner of Odyssey, can someone help me explain this?

Programmer: Boss, I'm sorry, wait a minute, let me think of how to describe it...

Programmer: There are currently several thousand players who don't need helmets or account passwords and are currently invisible in our game.

Programmer: They don't play games, they just... stay there.

Kasa: Are there really that many people so addicted to the internet?

Kasa: Can we identify them and kick them offline?

Programmer: This is the very thing we're discussing with Justin right now, but because all this information is mixed in with obsolete code, it's very difficult to work with it.

Programmer: Making any changes could affect some of the underlying structure of Odyssey.

Suddenly, I heard phone vibrate. I looked up and saw Gavin gesture with his hand before taking the phone and leaving.

Not long after, he returned to the conference room.

I don't know if it's just my imagination, but I feel like his face looks a bit ashen, like he's just been angry.

Has something happened?

I tugged at Gavin's sleeve and subtly asked him with my eyes. He simply shook his head at me and closed his eyes tightly for a moment.

When he opened his eyes again, the heaviness and anger seemed like my illusion; he had resumed focusing on the meeting.

---Part 3---
Muzzle exit

Since that day, several Odyssey technicians have been practically stationed at the Cybersecurity Bureau, assisting with data analysis.

Today, the filming location I was with happened to be near the Special Task Force. Gavin and I had agreed to go home together after we get off work, but I ended filming early.

I glanced at the time on my phone and decided to go directly to the Special Task Force to find him.

Unexpectedly, just as I reached the entrance of the police station, I saw Eli walking out towards me in a hurry.

Eli: Kasa? Gavin is not in the office right now.

Kasa: Is he on a mission?

Eli: That's not exactly the case—

Eli hesitated for a moment, then took out his phone and sent me an address.

Eli: He's been coming this way a lot lately when he's alone, and he's probably here now.

Eli: Spend more time talking to him when you get there.

Kasa: ...?

Before I could ask any further questions, he had already hurriedly gotten into a police car and sped away.

...What happened?

Kasa: Lane 24, Zhenyuan Road...

Following the address Eli gave me, I soon came into view a somewhat dilapidated courtyard.

The parking lot at the entrance has been overgrown with tall weeds due to years of disrepair, making it look like an abandoned, old office.

After glancing at the house number several times to make sure I hadn't gone to the wrong place, I subconsciously quickened my pace.

What is Gavin doing here? Why did Eli say that? All the worries and confusion in my heart rushed out, making me hurriedly push open the door and enter.

The walls of the old house's corridors are mottled, and sunlight streams in through the dusty sliding glass windows. Many doors are open, but most of the rooms are quite empty.

Only one large office looked tidy, with old wooden desks neatly arranged along the wall.

In one corner, there was a box of instant noodles that had clearly been opened.

But the person I was looking for was nowhere to be found. A sense of unease crept in, and I quickened my pace in the search.

Kasa: Gavin? Are you there?

Gavin: Kasa?

At the end of the corridor, Gavin's voice rang out, but it sounded much hoarser than usual.

I was startled and immediately ran towards the source of the sound.

As dusk fell, Gavin stood beside an old desk, his eyes wide with more... lingering anger than surprise.

A violent aura swirled around him, as if it were about to burst into flames, or as if it hadn't had time to subside.

I took a few steps forward, then stopped.

Kasa: Gavin...

Gavin: ...I'm fine.

Gavin spoke first.

Kasa: ...

Gavin: I'm really fine.

He interrupted me again.

The more he emphasized and resisted this, the more uneasy I became.

It was as if this person was about to swallow some sharp, bitter fruit alone, to be digested in rusty blood.

My breathing quickened, and the bittersweet feeling he evoked forced me to correct him word by word.

Kasa: Something's wrong with you.

Kasa: I want to hear what happened. If you don't tell me, I'll stay here with you.

Kasa: If you get so angry that you want to flip the table and smash things, I'll do it with you. If you want to keep eating instant noodles here, I'll eat with you.

I went over and pried open his tightly clenched hands one by one, slipping my own fingers between them.

Kasa: Until you're willing to speak.

Gavin: ...

After a long silence, Gavin finally spoke in a hoarse voice.

Gavin: Two more team members have been seriously injured.

Gavin: So far, 14 team members have been injured due to "parasitic consciousness".

Kasa: ...

Gavin: This time, they were controlled by a parasitic consciousness during the mission.

Gavin: ...leads to action exposure. tupla??

Gavin's hands were clenched into fists, his knuckles turning white, and the veins on the back of his hands bulging as he desperately suppressed the anger and frustration in his eyes.

Gavin: There are too many... really too many.

Kasa: What's too much?

I didn't understand what he meant at first, but Gavin had already let go of my arms and turned the whiteboard next to him over.

In an instant, a wall covered with clues written in red pen appeared in front of me.

The densely packed red characters looked particularly eerie under the dim light. I gasped, feeling a chill run down my spine.

The posters are covered with photos of many people, some with lines drawn over them, and others with large question marks.

I saw Tang and Eli, as well as Hang Jie and A Lu... Their faces were all marked with big X's. Familiar handwriting filled the area around the photo.

In the dim light, these markings had an eerie crimson hue, making them look shocking.

Kasa: Did you draw all of these?

Gavin nodded, his slender fingertips slightly curved as he tapped on the cold whiteboard.

Gavin: After Luke, I thoroughly inspected the Special Task Force and the Cyber Security Bureau.

Gavin: Those marked with an X are people who have been cleared of suspicion.

His gaze shifted to the other side, and his tone became three degrees lower.

Gavin: ...Persons marked with question marks are currently in doubt, and I am monitoring them.

I looked at the photos, and every face seemed somewhat familiar to me; they were people I occasionally encountered at the task force.

Although Gavin said "it's questionable," I knew what that meant.

He wouldn't suspect his teammates without reason; he had a deduction in mind, and it must be because he had discovered some definite signs.

He simply didn't want to directly "convict" them, so he used this method that was both fair and left room for maneuver.

In the photos, the red ink marks appear to have been erased many times, leaving several faint marks, and finally turning into a large question mark.

I can almost see Gavin standing here alone, after overturning countless possibilities and repeatedly confirming various pieces of information, marking his teammates stroke by stroke.

My heart suddenly clenched; I felt a suffocating oppression in the dimly lit office.

I gently bit my tongue, stepped forward, and enveloped his tightly clenched hand.

Beneath my palm, I could even feel the veins spreading across the back of his hand.

Kasa: We were able to find and resolve the situation with Luke, so no matter how many people are left, we can handle it, especially since you already discovered it in advance.

Gavin: I'm not worried about not being able to control them, it's just that I'm a little unsure.

He took a deep breath, but his tense jaw didn't relax in the slightest. His gaze fell on the gun in his hand, and a shadow fell over his eyes.

Gavin: I don't know if I can find them.

His voice was very soft, even carrying a hint of barely perceptible confusion. I was taken aback for a moment, but immediately understood what he meant.

We currently have almost no way to deal with parasitic consciousness. If we can't find a solution, will these people... be controlled forever?

I stepped forward and gently hugged him, wanting to share his unease and anxiety.

This person, who seemed invincible to everyone, was now hugging me tightly, as if drawing courage and strength from me.

How can I get him to loosen this string that's almost drawing blood?

I felt his heartbeat, felt the barely suppressed anger in his heart, and slowly began to speak—

Kasa: Gavin, do you worry about the outcome every time you go on a mission?

He thought silently for a moment, then shook his head.

Gavin: But I will do everything in my power to prevent it from failing. Overthinking the outcome will affect my actions.

Kasa: But... what if it fails?

Gavin: Then we should find the best remedy.

Kasa: Yes, so don't think about the possibility of failure right now, since the mission is still in progress.

Gavin remained silent for a long time before finally loosening his tightly pursed lips, as if something had quietly dissolved in the air.

Gavin: You're right. This matter isn't over yet.

A light finally shone in his amber eyes, and my heart, which had been hanging in suspense, was relieved. I looked at the whiteboard with him.

Kasa: What about these people...?

Gavin: I have already spoken with Eli and Tang, and they will all be under our surveillance for now.

Kasa: Shouldn't we take them under control first?

Gavin didn't answer my question immediately. Instead, he took a deep breath and looked sharply at the whiteboard.

He casually took the pistol out of its holster, lightly ran his fingertips over the barrel, and then gripped it tightly.

It's as if this way, they can firmly grasp the initiative.

After a long while, he finally let out a long sigh.

Gavin: I plan to wait and see. Taking action rashly might alert the enemy, just like Luke did last time.

Gavin: If they have a plan, they will definitely take action, and that is the opportunity.

The light from the tungsten filament lamp fell on his eyebrows, reflecting a resolute light within that amber hue.

The cold muzzle of the gun was slightly raised, as if it had locked onto an unseen enemy in the void.

His upright and straight back was like a bullet about to be fired, lying in wait, ready to aim and strike deadly.

Those eyes shone slightly, and I couldn't take my eyes off them.

He always habitually shoulders everything and does everything perfectly. I know that only this version of him is Gavin.

I will always stay by his side.

Part 4
Safety Buckle

We lingered in the old office a little longer until a phone call broke the twilight.

Gavin took the phone, and after listening to a few words, his relaxed expression turned serious again, making me subconsciously anxious.

After hanging up the phone, Gavin looked at me.

Gavin: We've caught Aether.

Kasa: What?!

I stared in astonishment. Hadn't Aether disappeared without a trace after emerging from that dream?

Kasa: ...Where is he now?

Gavin: NW. Because he possesses too much information about "parasitic consciousness," NW is determined to pry him open.

Gavin paused, looked directly at me, and his gaze held a hint of inquiry.

Gavin: Kasa, do you want to come with me?

Without hesitation, I nodded, and Gavin took my hand and led me towards the door.

---

We quickly arrived at NW's laboratory, where several researchers were already standing.

They were all a little surprised when they saw me, but quickly returned to their indifferent attitude and looked away.

One of them walked over to Gavin and handed him a report.

Researcher: The equipment is all ready.

Gavin: Where are people?

Researcher: They have been kept under anesthesia, so we can start anytime.

Gavin nodded, glancing to the side. I followed his gaze.

A person was lying in a glass capsule next to me, with some wires connected to their head. Some of the familiar faces made me pause for a moment.

Kasa: ..?

Isn't this the old man who was in charge of the Infinite acquisition in Paris and was caught by B.S. again?

I looked at Gavin with a somewhat blank expression.

Kasa: Didn't they say they caught Aether?

Gavin: He is "Aether".

Kasa: ??

I didn't understand what he meant, but I couldn't find a trace of joking in Gavin's expression.

Gavin: It is not Roman, but merely a parasitic consciousness residing within Roman's body.

Gavin: This parasitic consciousness had been in Aether's body for a long time.

I glanced at Gavin, then at the old man in front of me, trying to process what he had said.

No wonder I felt a sense of déjà vu about Roman's arrogance when I was in France; he was just like Aether.

Kasa: So... can a parasitic consciousness really run around everywhere?

Gavin: Normally it's not possible, but this is a special case.

Gavin: It can not only issue commands to other parasitic consciousnesses, but also roam around using the information flow Evol.

Kasa: —Then isn't it the boss of the parasitic consciousnesses?

Gavin: You could say we've given it a special code name—Zero Consciousness.

During our conversation, the researcher seemed to have adjusted the equipment and walked towards Gavin.

Experimenter: The machine is ready. We will activate the body's Evol and project the zero consciousness into reality.

Experimenter: The white team needs to control this energy so that we can record it.

Gavin: I will do it.

He agreed almost without hesitation.

The researchers received instructions and swiftly began preparations. I looked at Roman lying in the glass chamber and instinctively grasped Gavin's wrist.

Although I could tell that Gavin was absolutely certain about this matter, I was still a little worried.

Compared to the last time he confronted "Luke", he seemed to lose control.

This time, he's even closer to the parasitic consciousness. Can his body handle it?

Kasa: Gavin...is there any other way? Should we...?

The moment I uttered the question, I already knew the answer.

On that whiteboard, there are many people marked with question marks. In this Love Land City, many more people whose futures have been robbed are waiting for redemption.

Now that he finally has a glimmer of hope, how could Gavin possibly give up?

Gavin saw my worry and hesitation, and he smiled brightly.

Gavin: Kasa, stand where I can see you.

Gavin: If I really get affected by the news feed later, I'll be counting on you.

I looked up and met those bright, shining eyes.

Gavin: My "safety buckle" has always been in your hands.

In an instant, it felt as if my heart, which had been hanging in suspense, had been fastened with a "safety buckle," and I nodded vigorously.

Kasa: Don't worry, I'll hold on to it tightly.

As the instrument beeped, I seemed to see the air in front of me ripple slightly, and a transparent wall seemed to unfold around Gavin and Roman.

Experimenter: Begin to open the channels of consciousness.

With a soft beep from the instrument, I clearly felt an invisible force ripple in the air.

I stared intently at Gavin. Noticing my gaze, he blinked, signaling me to relax.

Immediately, a black wind field emerged from his body, steadily swirling around Gavin and Roman.

Experimenter: Consciousness channel stable, continue increasing power.

Gradually, some blurry images began to appear in the air around them.

Some resembled parks in the city center, with dense foliage covered in morning dew, casting dappled shadows.

There were also towering buildings I had never seen before, radiating a slightly cold aura.

I looked around curiously, but soon, the wind guided my gaze back to Gavin.

His expression remained unchanged, the wind field in his palm steadily suppressing these blurry images.

Gavin: Continue.

The instruments kept beeping, and I felt the force on the other side of the protective barrier growing stronger and stronger—

And the layers of black wind seemed to expand even more in an attempt to suppress them.

After this continued for an unknown period of time, Gavin's expression suddenly changed. At the same time, a sharp alarm sounded.

In an instant, those blurry images overlapped layer by layer, engulfing Gavin!

Kasa: Gavin!!

My heart leaped into my throat, my body reacted before my brain could process it, and the power within me surged forth in an instant, propelling me towards the center of the storm—

The wind howled past my ears, and a powerful force dragged me forward.

When I opened my eyes again, NW Labs and Gavin were gone.

The square was deserted, with a crescent moon hanging in the sky.

Where is Gavin? I anxiously searched for him everywhere.

Almost simultaneously, that familiar voice, tinged with urgency, rang out behind me.

Gavin: Kasa!

Part 5
"He"

Before I could finish speaking, I felt a sudden jolt on my back, and the next second, I was nestled in Gavin's arms. His hands nervously stroked my arms, repeatedly checking on me.

Gavin: Are you alright? Are you hurt?

Seeing his tense expression, I smiled, took his hand, and gave it a reassuring squeeze.

Kasa: I'm fine, what about you?

Kasa: It seems like a huge burst of Evol energy just now...

Gavin: Yeah, I was startled too, but thankfully you're okay... Don't leave my side again.

He seemed somewhat shaken, gripping my shoulders tightly with both hands.

Gavin: You are the most important person to me, and I will definitely protect you.

Kasa: ...

Looking at his worried expression, a strange feeling gradually rose in my heart.

Although the situation was somewhat critical, isn't he overreacting a bit?

Despite Gavin's apparent concern for me, I felt a strange sense of resistance.

...Maybe I'm overthinking it. I tried to ignore the discomfort and smiled at him.

Kasa: So what do we do now?

Gavin: It's too dangerous, let's leave here.

Kasa: ...

Seeing that I didn't speak, he leaned closer worriedly, trying to cup my face in his hands. I turned my head slightly, dodging his fingertips, and took a step back to look at him.

Kasa: Are you worried about me?

Gavin: Yes, you are the light in my life, my eternal faith.

Kasa: ...

Compared to goosebumps, I felt a chill seep into my limbs much faster, so I tentatively opened my mouth.

Kasa: Do you remember what you said to me before the experiment started?

Kasa: You said I was your "safety net".

Gavin knew that I came here not to back down, but to help him find more useful information.

I took a deep breath, trying not to let my voice tremble with worry.

Kasa: ...He knew I wouldn't be affected by the information flow.

Kasa: Where is the real Gavin?!

Gavin didn't speak, his expression completely vanished, and he just stared straight at me, just like those controlled by parasitic consciousness.

"Gavin" took a step forward.

Just then, a howling wind ripped through the deathly silence!

A violent black wind blade swept past my clothes, protecting me in the hurricane.

Amidst the turbulent wind blades, I felt an incredibly reassuring gentleness, and almost instinctively reached out to the black whirlwind...

The moment we touched, the wind seemed to recognize something, suddenly calming down and gently enveloping my palm.

Then, a scorching heat passed through my fingertips, and a figure descended from the chaotic wind.

Gavin: Kasa!

Every inch of warmth against my skin felt etched into my body, so familiar. When I came to my senses, he had already embraced me tightly.

I heard him let out a deep sigh, as if he had finally put his mind at ease.

Gavin: It's okay.

Feeling the warmth of the embrace, the chill slowly dissipated from my limbs.

Kasa: Are you alright? There was someone who looked exactly like you just now, I thought...

I instinctively looked in that direction, only to find the place completely empty.

I quickly told him what had just happened, and he nodded without much surprise.

Gavin: I also met someone who looked exactly like you; it must be an ancient method of deceiving us called "Zero Consciousness".

Gavin: However, I soon discovered that she was a fake.

Kasa: How did you find out?

Gavin: She dodged when I used Evol.

His gaze was lowered, and a confident smile flickered in his eyes as he stared at me.

Gavin: You won't be afraid of me.

My breath hitched slightly.

This person was afraid of hurting me and pushed me away time and time again.

But every time I faced those forces and walked to his side, he would only hug me even tighter.

The moonlight was slightly cold, but my heart was incredibly warm at that moment.

Kasa: Of course, I will always come to you.

Gavin and I held hands and continued walking on the deserted street.

Apart from the sound of footsteps, the air was deathly silent; there wasn't even the slightest breeze.

There were some domed buildings all around, which didn't seem to be in the style of Love Land City at all, but they looked somewhat familiar to me...

Kasa: Does this place look familiar?

Gavin: This should be an arena instance from Odyssey.

Kasa: Huh? How do you know?

Gavin: When I was investigating cases in Odyssey, I would occasionally be dragged into the arena to fight, and this was one of them.

The image of Gavin being dragged into the arena to PK with a completely bewildered look on his face, and then beating up the person who provoked him, flashed through my mind, and I couldn't help but laugh out loud.

Kasa: Is that even possible? So you won?

Gavin: Yeah, those people's skills are flashy, but not many of them are actually good at fighting.

Looking at his calm and composed profile, I pretended to regret and took his arm.

Kasa: I should have teamed up with you back then, so we could have farmed some arena points together.

Gavin: When the server reopens, I'll cover your arena points.

As we walked and talked, those pleasant memories gradually melted away the tense atmosphere around us.

Just as I was about to say something more to him, the ringing in my ears and the dizziness suddenly returned.

My body swayed and I stumbled, but Gavin immediately steadied me.

Gavin: What's wrong?

Kasa: I'm fine...

Seeing that worried expression on his face again, I smiled.

Kasa: Don't worry, you know I have a backup plan~

Gavin: ...

Gavin was a little helpless about my joke at that moment. He held my hand tighter before speaking.

Gavin: Before the experiment began, the people in NW said that the greater the Evol fluctuation, the closer it might be to the depths of his consciousness.

Kasa: Oh! No wonder that person kept leading me away from these places with Evol fluctuations... they didn't want us to go any deeper into this area!

We looked at each other and saw almost the same certainty in each other's eyes.

Gavin: I'd like to go take a look, is that okay with you?

Kasa: Sure!

I held his hand tightly, took a deep breath, and channeled the power of CORE.

Sure enough, the dizziness and nausea lessened considerably. So, we headed deeper into the area where the energy was stronger.

Passing through the dense, dark shadows of the trees, a tall tower came into view.

---Part 6---
Consciousness Channel

The tower before me, backlit by the moonlight, almost blended into the darkness. Suddenly, a cold drop of water landed on my face.

A light drizzle began to fall. I felt as if even the oxygen had thinned, and my whole body felt heavy.

After searching around without finding the entrance, Gavin carried me to the top of the tower.

At the very center of the tower's top was a large glass ceiling. Looking down through it, there was only bottomless darkness.

Kasa: I can't see anything...

Just as I murmured this, a soft pattering sound came from beside me, and then, the area in front of me became much brighter.

I looked at the flashlight in his hand in surprise and burst out laughing.

Kasa: Is your pocket a treasure chest?

Gavin's expression seemed somewhat surprised as he examined the flashlight in front of him.

Gavin: I had taken it to get repaired before, and I forgot about it in my pocket... I never expected it to end up here.

The flashlight beam pierced through the glass and fell downwards. In the bottomless darkness, something seemed to be surging, devouring every ray of light that fell into it.

For some reason, my gaze suddenly became fixed on that darkness. Something seemed to be drawing me in...

Like a colorless and odorless temptation, or more like a hidden whirlpool in the deep sea.

I felt my body begin to feel lightheaded, as if I had lost gravity, and all I wanted to do was move closer to this unknown darkness...

Ideally... we should become one.

Gavin: Kasa.

Suddenly, a hand gently pressed on my shoulder, and I snapped back to reality, realizing that I was almost pressed against the glass.

It took me a while to realize what was happening, and my palms instantly broke out in a cold sweat.

Kasa: Gavin, I... I just...

Gavin: Don't stare at it.

Gavin: The Evol fluctuations here are stronger than elsewhere; this must be what they mean by the breakthrough point in consciousness.

Kasa: A breakthrough? What's inside?

Gavin shook his head.

Gavin: I just feel that we haven't found any useful information along the way.

Gavin: Perhaps we'll find what we're looking for down here.

Kasa: Let's give it a try! My Core seemed to be able to resist the power here, maybe it will come in handy.

He seemed completely unsurprised by my words, and smiled as he extended his hand to me.

Gavin: Come to me.

He pulled me back two steps, and a black gale rose up, like countless blades hidden in the night.

The glass in front of me was instantly crushed to pieces, the shards flying everywhere, only to be swept away by the wind that was protecting me.

The tower was pitch black, and I couldn't see anything clearly except for that amber color.

It seemed as if two enormous forces were colliding and intertwining, causing the entire building to sway slightly.

Suddenly, a sharp light flashed in his eyes, and I felt my feet sink into the ground as he lifted me into the air.

Under the howling wind of the night, I saw a ball of black energy surging out from the tower, like erupting black magma.

Almost simultaneously, space trembled violently, and a corner of the sky began to collapse and peel away. I felt my heart was about to jump out of my chest, and I held Gavin tightly.

Gavin: He lost control of his mind. Hold me tight, don't let go!

Gavin's voice reached my ears through the strong wind. I nodded and hugged his waist tightly.

However, the "black hole" rapidly expanded, gradually engulfing the surrounding space and wind blades, and hurtling towards us—

In the instant darkness descended, a strange force tried to squeeze into my mind, and countless noisy sounds arose all around.

??: They...decided to preserve...for posterity...

??: Not... coming again.

These sounds were very distant, but for some reason, I felt a strange sense of familiarity and...nostalgia.

Kasa: How I...

It was as if some thought that didn't belong to me was pulling at my consciousness. In the chaos, I saw a towering spire reaching into the sky.

A glimmer of light flashed at its top, illuminating a distant place, heading towards the future.

I reached out longingly, wanting to grasp this glimmer of hope.

"That's what we've been waiting for..."

Gavin: Kasa, don't listen!

The next moment, a force pulled me into an embrace, and another hand covered my exposed ear.

The urgent shout and the familiar temperature jolted me back to my senses.

Darkness still enveloped the surroundings, and my body felt as if it had fallen into a cold, damp cloud.

A bone-chilling cold spread through my limbs, only the heat emanating from my tightly pressed body.

Within his arms, I could feel his waist tense, as if he were resisting this force.

Gavin: Don't listen, use your strength.

His voice cleared my mind a bit, and I gritted my teeth and tried my best to mobilize all the CORE energy in my body.

Soon, a warm sensation traveled along the blood vessels to the limbs, resisting the force that was invading the brain.

The chaotic visions grew increasingly faint, but the ever-draining power made my consciousness grow heavy, and I could only hear Gavin's urgent voice in my ear.

Gavin: We'll be out soon.

Listening to the firm and real heartbeat in my ear, I nodded. In the hazy light, it seemed as if another immense power was emanating from him.

It wasn't the familiar wind, but another kind of... indescribable, heavy force.

In my last moments of consciousness, I sensed that we were falling from a great height, and finally, with a gust of wind, we landed steadily on the ground.

---

Researcher: Most people's subconscious mind presents their own memories, but Zero's consciousness presents game scenes.

Researcher: We've never seen anything like this before.

Gavin: Does this mean this parasitic consciousness is different from normal people's?

Researcher: We need to study it further to draw more conclusions.

Researcher: And during the experiment just now, we also discovered that an Evol entered our instrument, the same type of Evol that attacked the NW intranet before.

Gavin: That's your business. What are the results of the black hole analysis in the consciousness space?

Gavin spoke calmly and directly. The other party probably didn't expect him to be so impolite, and hesitated before speaking.

Researcher: Just as you guessed, that was his "breakthrough point." However, we haven't analyzed it thoroughly yet, so you shouldn't have acted rashly just now.

Gavin: Since it's a breakthrough point, we'll have to take action sooner or later.

Gavin stood up, and just as he was about to leave, the voice behind him sounded again.

Researcher: During our monitoring, we discovered that CORE could suppress the power of his subconscious, perhaps she...

Gavin: Impossible.

Before the researcher could finish speaking, he suddenly met a cold gaze. A cold sweat instinctively broke out on the back of his neck, and he shut his mouth.

Gavin stopped looking at him, left a single sentence, and turned to leave.

Gavin: Inform Silas that I want to lift some of the Evol restrictions.

---

I opened my eyes in a daze.

It was dark all around, and it took me a while for my brain to register that I was in NW.

I turned my head slightly and saw Gavin standing guard by the bedside, deep in thought.

A faint ray of light shone through the window and fell on the tips of his hair.

His usually unruly short brown hair seemed to be bathed in a soft light, concealing the sharpness in his eyes.

The night is about to end.

---Part 7---
Human Consciousness

Hearing the sound of the bedding rubbing together, he subconsciously raised his head.

Gavin: Are you awake? Is anything bothering you?

A rough, dry palm gently touched my forehead, but the voice was somewhat hoarse.

I shook my head. Perhaps because I was tired and sleepy, I slept very soundly.

Apart from feeling a bit tired after just waking up, the dizziness and ringing in the ears have mostly disappeared.

Even in the dim light of dawn, the weariness in his eyes was quite evident.

Kasa: Why don't you rest?

He blinked slowly, his gaze somewhat heavy.

Gavin: I suddenly thought of some things and decided to sort them out first.

Hearing his somewhat hoarse voice, my throat tightened, and I moved edge to the bed, patting the empty space beside me.

Kasa: Come lie down with me.

His lips curved slightly as he gently lay down on his side in front of me.

On the small single bed, a warm breath wafted over me, almost melting into my breath, making my ears feel slightly hot.

His slender fingertips gently caressed my cheek, and after a moment, he spoke softly.

Gavin: I'm sorry... I shouldn't have rushed into attacking the consciousness channel.

Gavin: Were you feeling terrible back then?

Seeing him exhale in frustration, I pouted and poked his cheek without saying a word.

Kasa: Don't say that.

Kasa: We made the decision together. If Officer Gavin insists on blaming someone, then he can hold me accountable too.

Kasa: Or are you saying you only allow yourself to be blamed, but not me?

He blinked blankly, then finally smiled and gently took my hand, pressing it against his cheek.

Gavin: Okay then.

Kasa: This is right.

My fingertips were enveloped in his warm palm, and a familiar sense of security gradually seeped into my heart.

Even so, his eyes still revealed a hint of unspoken emotion, as if he was still weighing something.

Kasa: What were you thinking about just now, the experimental results?

Gavin: Hmm. Do you remember when I brought you to the Cybersecurity Bureau meeting last time, Justin mentioned that there was a lot of still-active biometric data in the abandoned code of Odyssey?

Kasa: I remember, weren't they supposed to be all hidden players?

Gavin: Not a player.

Gavin's lips moved as if he didn't know how to choose his words.

Gavin: When we entered the world of Consciousness Zero, the biological data experienced huge fluctuations.

Gavin slowly shook his head, his fingertips tightening, his dark eyes seeming to suppress some kind of emotion about to erupt.

Gavin: The analysis results are in; that data... is very likely human consciousness data.

It took me a long time to react; my mind went blank for a moment.

Human...consciousness...data?

I recognize all these words, but putting them together like this seems utterly absurd.

But soon, an even more terrifying thought jumped into my mind.

Kasa: You mean those invisible players who are still active in Odyssey?

Kasa: Rather than saying they were "moving around" inside, it's more like they were... "trapped inside"?

Gavin nodded.

Gavin: We suspect that those who are possessed by "parasitic consciousness"—

Gavin: Their original consciousness resides in the Odyssey.

In an instant, my brain went "buzz," as if I had been hit by something.

I just find it utterly absurd. How can living, breathing people be turned into a bunch of cold, lifeless game data?

How is this possible?!

But suddenly, a slightly humorous mechanical voice appeared in my ears.

24: Friends, the internet connects us all; meeting is fate.

24: Unfortunately, this internet is exceptionally brutal and highly predatory.

24: As a program existing in a biological form, parts of me were devoured and dismantled, rendering me unable to maintain effective contact with the outside world.

24: I not only lost a large part of my "body," but I'm also trapped here.

...Yes, I've seen this before, haven't I?

—Inside the Lighthouse!

A chill ran through my stomach, as if gripped tightly by something, and my breathing became rapid.

At the end of the Lighthouse civilization, people's consciousness was extracted, transformed, and stored, becoming data. Afterward, they entered a near-eternal slumber.

What about these people?

They have no consciousness, no body, no senses; they are nothing but data, locked in a virtual world...

Are they still able to perceive the outside world? Are they, deep in their consciousness, repeatedly calling for help?

Have they been in the darkness for so long that... they've almost forgotten who they are?

I dare not think about it anymore.

The fear in my chest gradually transformed into a wisp of anger, burning up from the bottom of my heart, making me clench my teeth.

What are the motives of the person behind all this, turning living, breathing people into data within a game?!

Silence filled the room, making me feel a llittle breathless, so I could only hold Gavin's hand.

Even I'm angry about this, so what about him?

An unknown intruder lurks in the shadows, possessing the bodies of his companions and causing many citizens to lose their sense of self. Meanwhile, the rescue operation is progressing slowly...

He should be angrier and more frustrated than anyone else.

Too many burdens weighed on his shoulders, causing his taut nerves to tighten even more without any relaxation.

I subconsciously curled my fingers, as if I could feel that helplessness quietly traveling from our clasped fingertips into my heart.

But if even I back down, then Gavin will have to digest all this burden alone again.

I bit my tongue, trying to dispel the growing despondency and find some direction in this predicament.

Kasa: ...By the way! They're still different from the lighthouse!

Kasa: Gavin, does that mean they're saved simply by returning them to their bodies?

Gavin: Ideally, yes.

Gavin: Give me a little more time.

Gavin buried his head in the side of my neck, his voice murmuring softly, the last syllable of his voice lingering on my clothes.

Gavin: Cybersecurity Bureau, NW, research center... I'll find a way.

Gavin: I will bring everyone back.

I listened quietly to every word he uttered, each one tinged with weariness, and then, before that taut string snapped, I reached out and hugged him tightly.

The person in my arms stopped talking and hugged me back, somewhat bewildered.

Gavin: What's wrong?

I shook my head, suppressing the sob in my throat, and spoke in a relaxed tone.

Kasa: I think I can hear Officer Gavin's brain overload alarm going off.

Gavin: Is there any?

Kasa: Of course, when I can't think of a case but have to force myself, my thoughts get increasingly stuck—

Kasa: At times like that, my brain would also be sounding the same alarm as yours right now.

Kasa: Gavin, let it rest.

I gently ruffled his hair and patted his back lightly.

The person in my arms trembled slightly and then gradually slowed his breathing.

He let out a long breath, as if finally relieved, and leaned completely against me.

His muffled voice fell, somewhat lazy.

Gavin: I'll listen to you.

Kasa: If you can't sleep, shall we take a walk around here?

Gavin: There doesn't seem to be anything fun around here.

As if intentionally trying to relax, he pondered for a moment after I spoke.

Gavin: Oh, there's a flower market that's not bad.

Gavin: On my way home, I bought fertilizer for Greenie and the others.

Kasa: Well, it's Saturday today, so we can watch the sunrise while browsing the market and help Little Thorn find some more neighbors.

Kasa: After we'll finish shopping, we can have some breakfast, and then find a park to soak up the sun.

He listened to my wonderful weekend plans and chuckled softly.

Gavin: Is the Big Shot Producer going to take me to skip work?

Kasa: It's the weekend! How can you work overtime so brazenly?

Kasa: Actually, the best activity on weekends is to stay in bed all the time... but the beds here are too narrow, are you having trouble sleeping?

His response was an even closer hug.

Gavin: No, this distance is just right.

The hot breath gently landed on my neck, tickling me a little, but making me feel incredibly relaxed.

Gavin: I think I feel like taking a nap now. 

Part 8
Self-Destruct Timing

The air was filled with the sound of countless keyboards being tapped, and everyone was working methodically in front of their screens.

Justin: The biological data has been largely filtered out from the discarded code, but how to restore them to their "original consciousness" may require neuroscience experts.

Gavin: Have you found a way to transfer the data out of the game?

Justin: There are several methods available, but we still need to conduct simulation tests to assess their security.

After discovering the "original consciousness" data within the game, the programmers and cybersecurity experts of Odyssey formed a temporary task force.

They worked day and night analyzing the code, trying to extract this information from the game's code.

Fortunately, everything went very smoothly, and there were no unexpected issues. But I didn't feel relaxed at all; my nerves were getting more and more tense.

As if confirming my fears, a piercing alarm suddenly blared.

In an instant, all the computer screens in the room turned red, and a huge "30:00:00" appeared in the center of the screen.

The next moment, it jumped to 29:59:34, with the last two digits rapidly decreasing.

Technical staff: Report! The operating system is suspected of being compromised. Firewall activated, intrusion source removed.

Gavin: Attention everyone, to your positions.

I took a deep breath as I stared at the countdown timer on the screen, which was decreasing second by second.

Kasa: Just as Gavin had predicted...

A sense of tension permeated the air. Everyone was working diligently in their respective roles, and my mind involuntarily drifted back to Gavin's plan from three days ago.

Gavin: According to intelligence, the information we are looking for is hidden in the abandoned code of Odyssey.

Gavin: Our primary task now is to find all this data as quickly as possible and extract it from the game.

After discovering fluctuations in biological data within Odyssey, Gavin immediately convened an internal meeting.

The task force and the technical staff in charge of the operation gathered in the conference room, their eyes fixed on that tall, imposing figure.

Justin: Extracting the data is not difficult, but methods for securely stripping it from the server may require further investigation.

Justin: These data were not transferred to the game through normal "login" methods, and there is a risk of corruption if the data is forcibly migrated.

Gavin: Okay, in any case, the first priority is to ensure the safety of biological data.

Gavin: In addition, a group of personnel was allocated to increase the internal firewall level.

Justin: I'll make arrangements as soon as possible.

Gavin nodded and turned his gaze to me.

Gavin: Zero consciousness had been lurking in Infinite for a period of time before, and there might be an inside agent among them.

Gavin: Keep an eye out these next few days to see if anyone is still trying to access the Odyssey website.

Kasa: Okay, I'll have someone keep an eye out for that within the company.

He looked into my eyes, a hint of certainty flashing in his gaze.

Gavin: A group of people guard the cave where the main Odyssey server is located, responsible for checking whether there are electromagnetic and detonation devices installed inside the mainframe.

Gavin: After that, you will need to sign an authorization document.

Kasa: ...a detonator?

I was startled, and I could faintly hear gasps coming from inside the room. Even Eli, who was sitting next to me, frowned.

Eli: Are you worried that the other side will fight to the death?

Gavin: This Zero consciousness had been secretly planning this all along.

Gavin: If I was it, I would definitely have a backup plan and clean up the "evidence" when necessary.

Justin: Indeed, the best way to irreversibly erase traces of the game is to destroy the server storing the data.

Destroy? My heart suddenly tightened.

Kasa: But if there really is a self-destruct mechanism, then what about the consciousness of the people inside the server?

No one answered me, but everyone realized the same problem, and the atmosphere in the meeting room became even more tense.

Gavin: Listen up, everyone! We must do everything in our power to protect the consciousness data of all players in Odyssey.

Gavin: Report any abnormalities immediately. This is the highest directive.

Everyone: Yes!

After the meeting, everyone quickly got back to their work. But the meeting had left me feeling a little uneasy, so after everyone else had left, I went to Gavin's side.

Kasa: Is that Zero consciousness still inside Roman's body?

Gavin: Yes. NW has increased monitoring of it, and so far there are no abnormalities.

Gavin: However, they later tried several times to break through the consciousness barrier, but all attempts failed.

He lowered his eyes slightly, a cold glint flashing in them.

Gavin: We can't place all our hopes on NW. We have too little intelligence about Zero Consciousness to guarantee that it doesn't have other schemes.

Indeed, the Zero Consciousness I know of has quietly spread its network without anyone noticing.

The entire city had unknowingly fallen into its trap. It wouldn't surrender so easily.

Kasa: But if Zero Consciousness intends to continue "using" The Odyssey... will it really go that far?

He pulled the uniform cap up over his head, his expression beneath the brim resolute.

Gavin: Rather than letting the enemy use it as leverage, it's better to destroy it directly.

Gavin: This is the most brutal experience I've gained from dealing with these desperate criminals.

Gavin: Moreover, it won't give us much time.

Just as Gavin predicted, it took action!

After that, the task force inspected the Odyssey servers and found no detonation devices.

But the scarlet countdown on the screen was steadily ticking away, second by second, like a sword hanging overhead.

Everyone present was orderly and doing what they were supposed to do.

Justin: Intrusion traces detected; firewall is blocking.

Justin: Preliminary assessment suggests it's a game's self-destruct program... just as you predicted.

Gavin: Can you stop it?

A thin layer of sweat beaded on Justin's forehead, and his fingers were typing so hard they were practically sparking.

Justin: It is being blocked, but the source of this intrusion signal is of a very high level.

Gavin: If the intruder cannot be stopped, attack directly. Prioritize exporting data.

Upon hearing this, Justin and I were both taken aback.

Justin: No, we can't guarantee that all the data can be transferred in this short time. Besides, we haven't even tested it yet...

Gavin: I'll do as much as I can, and I'll take responsibility for the consequences.

He spoke with such certainty and decisiveness, like an invisible pillar that gradually calmed the tension in the air.

Justin remained silent for a moment, seemingly still hesitant, but perhaps he also understood that...

All he could do was give it his all. A moment later, he pressed the confirm button.

Justin: The transfer operation needs to be performed on the terminal server.

Hearing him say that, Gavin immediately looked at me. I understood the meaning in his gaze almost instantly—

Kasa: Should we go to the server now?

Gavin: Okay, come with me.

He nodded and immediately summoned two officers from the special task force.

Gavin: Prepare the portal; we'll go directly to the server. 

---Part 9---
Electromagnetic shock

We and the core technical staff used the portal prepared by Task Force Evolver to arrive at the suburban cave where the server was located.

The moment we stepped out of the portal, the dampness and chill to the cave enveloped us.

Perhaps because it was always poorly ventilated, I felt a little dizzy. A hand gently supported my shoulder, and I turned to meet Gavin's worried gaze.

Gavin: Are you alright?

Kasa: ...I'm fine, just feeling stuffy.

At this moment, Eli, who had been assigned here before, walked over, looking rather unwell.

Gavin: How are you?

Eli: The server also started a countdown, and the technicians here tried to intervene, but the countdown is still continuing.

Gavin: Send someone to cut the server's fiber optic cable to prevent further external intrusion.

Eli: Understood. By the way, when the countdown started, an Evol fluctuation was detected in one of the mainframes, but it was very small.

I was slightly taken aback, and Gavin frowned upon hearing the sound.

Gavin: Let's go check it out.

We followed Eli into the cave.

Huge mainframes stood on both sides of the tunnel, stretching endlessly forward. The buzzing noise of the machines reached my ears, faintly jarring.

However, the deeper one went, the more pronounced the dizziness became, seemingly similar to the feeling of entering the world of consciousness in NW few days ago.

I tried to activate the power of CORE, and sure enough, the feeling dissipated a lot the next moment.

With a certain suspicion forming in my mind, I squeezed Gavin's fingertips —

Kasa: Gavin, I feel something's not right.

Kasa: This place feels the same as the one in the consciousness space last time...

After hearing my description, he lowered his eyes slightly, a thoughtful look flashing in them, and quickened his pace.

Soon, we arrived at the problematic main unit casing.

Eli: That's it.

Gavin: Has there been no Evol fluctuation before?

Seeing Eli shake his head, Gavin placed his hand on the main unit case, pondered for a moment, and then his expression changed.

Gavin: Do you remember the case of an Odyssey player who was murdered in the game?

Although I don't know why Gavin suddenly brought this up, I quickly tried to recall.

Gavin was probably referring to the moment a player was killed in the game Odyssey, a moment that led to a real-life death for the same reason. But...

Kasa: I recall that this case hasn't had a definitive conclusion yet?

Gavin: Yes, but it was later found that the electromagnetic waves generated by the information flow interfered with reality.

Gavin: Similarly, as long as the Evol energy is strong enough, the released electromagnetic waves are enough to destroy the server.

Upon hearing this, everyone present changed their expressions. Gavin gestured with his chin to the special task force member beside him.

Immediately, a special task force member brought over a device and began operating it. Soon, he looked at Gavin with a grave expression.

SWAT: Report, it's the Information Stream Evol.

Eli: No wonder we couldn't find the detonator after searching for so long. So the trap was here. Playing EMP with me, huh!

Eli cursed and punched the wall next to him.

Everyone present knew that if the Information Stream Evol exploded in this place, all the data on the server would probably be destroyed.

All eyes were now on Gavin. He frowned, pondered for a moment, and then gave his orders.

Gavin: Eli, arrange for a batch of protective equipment to protect these machines containing biological data.

Gavin: I'm going to suppress it.

Everyone followed his instructions, and finally, his gaze fell on me.

Before he could speak, I took his hand.

Kasa: I'll stay here—you can't refuse, you said it yourself, you made me your "insurance."

His Adam's apple bobbed slightly, as if he was swallowing some unspoken words, which finally turned into a smile.

Gavin: Kasa, stay with me.

After everyone was in their positions, I looked up at the countdown timer; there was less than a minute left.

We stood side by side in the center of the empty server room. Gavin took off the glove he had been wearing and took my hand with his other hand.

Gavin: After we're done, let's go check out the flower market I mentioned earlier.

I was stunned for a moment before I remembered that it was when we were lying on NW's bed that day, talking about the flower market.

I knew he was trying to comfort me this way. Although my heart was still racing with nervousness, I nodded vigorously.

Kasa: Great! I was just thinking of buying some small flowers and plants to put in my office.

As the countdown ticked closer to zero, I felt no fear whatsoever.

3、2、1--

As the system returned to zero, a wisp of electricity flashed inside the main unit, and at the same time, a huge black energy ball condensed in Gavin's left palm.

A massive shockwave exploded in front of us, seemingly about to engulf everything around us.

In that instant, all sounds seemed to disappear.

I held Gavin's hand tightly, channeling all my strength into him without reservation.

The two forces collided and chased each other in the space, and the blurry scene that appeared in the world of consciousness reappeared.

That huge black shadow was slowly expanding right in front of us, and the oppressive feeling it gave me made me feel suffocated.

My heart was pounding wildly under the pressure. I tried to take deep breaths, but the shock I felt wouldn't go away.

Kasa: This is... that breakthrough in consciousness I saw in the world of consciousness before? How did it get so big?

Gavin: It means that all its power should be concentrated here.

Kasa: So, should we defeat it now?

Gavin: Yes, are you ready?

I nodded vigorously, took a deep breath, and stared into the enormous black hole in front of me, where countless chaotic forces seemed to be stirring the air.

In the midst of the silent oppressive atmosphere, I suddenly heard him softly call my name beside me.

Gavin: Kasa.

As he spoke softly, a gentle breeze brushed against my cheek, flowed to the tips of my hair, and fluttered it gently.

We smiled at each other and leaped into the pure blackness together.

In an instant, the surrounding scenery was swallowed by darkness. I felt as if my body was immersed in a black swamp, and a chilling cold tried to penetrate from every pore.

At the same time, the warmth in my palm vanished. My heart sank, and I stood there in the darkness, somewhat bewildered.

Kasa: ...Gavin?

No one answered me. But in the hazy distance, many shadowy figures, like white mist, appeared.

Are there other people here? I held my breath and carefully observed them.

But they seemed not to see me, and just walked further and further away, one after another, slowly disappearing into the darkness.

In the end, only a lonely figure remained.

As I looked at that white outline, I felt a vague and faint sense of familiarity.

??: We will meet again sometime in the future. For now, goodnight.

??: My friends.

In a daze, I seemed to hear a long sigh, carrying endless loneliness and an unbreakable hope, falling heavily on my heart.

---Part 10---
Recapture

Gradually, the boundless darkness melted away, eventually transforming into a black human figure. The warmth of the palm returned to my hand.

?: ...

It seemed to be saying something, but it turned into chaos.

The shadow walked towards us step by step, crushed by the wind blades, yet its steps never stopped, carrying a kind of unwavering determination.

It's as if... it has to accomplish something, it has to say something.

His broken and fragmented appearance was terrifying, and I couldn't help but move closer to Gavin.

Kasa: ...Gavin, what is that?

Gavin: It might be a residual form of Evol; stay away from it.

Gavin carefully shielded me behind him, the wind blade in his palm acting as a solid shield in front of us.

The chaotic wind blades, carrying overwhelming power, shattered it into dust, causing it to disappear into the air.

At the same time, the space constructed by Evol shattered, and the surrounding scenery reverted to that of a server room.

A faint smell of burning wafted to my nose. I looked up and saw a plume of black smoke billowing from the main unit in front of me.

—We're not going to fail, are we?!

I gasped. Gavin's eyes narrowed, and he quickly pulled out a walkie-talkie.

Gavin: The Evol attack on the server has been eliminated, and some host shells are suspected of being damaged. All departments quickly confirmed that the data inside the server is intact.

After he finished speaking, his gaze was fixed on the walkie-talkie, and his body was taut in a straight line.

A moment later, a hissing sound finally came from there, and Justin's excited voice came through the microphone.

Justin: The countdown timer disappeared, and the biological data was intact!

Eli: The Evol fluctuations also disappeared.

Processed cheers came from the other end of the walkie-talkie, carrying a somewhat jarring noise, but full of joy.

I blinked, somewhat dazed, and looked at Gavin.

Kasa: We... succeeded?

Gavin: We succeeded.

I couldn't catch my breath, my legs went weak, and I was embraced tightly.

Those strong arms held me tightly in their embrace, his hot breath against my ear, tinged with a barely perceptible tremor.

For the first time in a long time, I heard a sense of relief and lightness in his voice.

Gavin: We succeeded.

Thanks to the Cybersecurity Bureau's overtime efforts, all biological data was successfully transferred from the Odyssey servers.

The biological data in The Odyssey has stopped growing, which means that no one else has been implanted with "parasitic consciousness".

After finishing the follow-up work, I also accompanied Gavin to NW to visit Luke, who was in a deep sleep.

Kasa: Next, is it simply a matter of finding a way to return the consciousness data retrieved from the Odyssey to the body?

Kasa: Will he and Roman be able to recover?

Gavin: Yes, this part has been entrusted to relevant professionals. If all goes well, those who were controlled by the parasitic consciousness will recover.

Kasa: Wow! That's great. We've finally succeeded in the first step! Can I take a vacation now?

Seeing Gavin's gaze unconsciously drift away, I immediately became "alert".

Kasa: Are some workaholics planning to go without taking a single day off?

Gavin: No, I'll rest today.

Gavin: However, there are still many follow-up issues to be resolved regarding that Zero Consciousness, which need to be dealt with tomorrow.

Thinking back to that powerful black hole, I still feel lingering fear.

Kasa: What happened to it?

For some reason, Gavin paused, his expression somewhat complicated.

Gavin: It blew itself up.

Kasa: ...?

Gavin: When the countdown ended, Roman's Evol erupted simultaneously, and no further fluctuations of Zero Consciousness were detected afterward.

I opened my mouth, but didn't know what to say.

Did it realize it would ultimately fail, and therefore choose this path?

Dust danced in the tranquil sunlight, and occasionally a car would pass by on the road, leaving behind a soothing white noise.

Everything seemed normal, but something was different.

Gavin: Kasa.

When I heard Gavin call my name, I looked up at him. I saw a dark light flicker in his amber eyes.

Gavin: Have you ever been afraid of what would happen if I failed?

Kasa: No, I know you will succeed.

He didn't speak, but simply lowered his eyelids slightly.

Meeting his deep gaze, I belatedly realized that he wasn't just asking if I was afraid as Kasa. / of failing.

If we hadn't succeeded in stopping Zero Consciousness from destroying the server, all the consciousness within it would have been destroyed.

The consciousness of the Task Force members and those citizens could vanish from this day forward.

At that time, all the blame would be directed at the Cybersecurity Bureau and me, the person in charge of Odyssey.

At that time, we may face more than just verbal attacks.

After carefully describing these possibilities in my mind, I reached out and gently cupped his face in my hands.

Kasa: If you're worried about public opinion surrounding The Odyssey, then I can tell you—I'm not afraid, Gavin.

Kasa: If this really happens, I'll just be glad I'm in charge of Odyssey.

Kasa: Because of this, you won't be the only one facing the storms and pain.

Those things will definitely be very difficult, perhaps keeping me up all night, or perhaps putting me under unbearable pressure.

But no matter how dark the place, as long as we have each other by our side, there will be a safe haven.

Kasa: More than the difficulties, I fear watching you struggle with pain alone.

Gavin stared blankly at me, then, as if he had no way to deal with me, he let out a deep breath and chuckled as he leaned his head against my forehead.

Gavin: I have never been afraid to fight against pain.

Gavin: But every time you stand beside me, I feel incredibly fortunate to have you.

Gavin: Kasa, you made me do it.

The warmth in my palm was just like it was in the darkness back then.

I looked at him, raised our hands and placed them on his chest, feeling the steady and strong pulse beneath our fingertips.

Kasa: That's because I heard you calling my name.

Kasa: Knowing you're by my side makes me fearless.

In the space where our breaths mingled, I saw my image reflected in his smiling eyes.

I blinked gently, feeling his breath, carried by the spring breeze, falling on my hair.

Gavin: Alright, let's go to the flower market we talked about before.

---

In the sunset, Gavin looked up at the top of the residential building, where he saw the girl standing by the window waving to him.

Gavin smiled, reached out, and sent a wisp of wind to her side before turning away.

Dusk deepened, casting a shadow on his profile.

Everything was over, but the confusion in his heart hadn't disappeared.

If the "Sending Away Consciousness" incident was all a conspiracy by Zero Consciousness, then when did Zero Consciousness begin to control Aether?

He had witnessed the end of Zero Consciousness, but when did its beginning... originate?

Behind Zero Consciousness and Infinite, could there be another existence that he had never encountered?

He stopped in his tracks, pondered for a moment, and made a phone call at the crossroads.

Gavin: You've received the items; don't forget what you promised.

Gavin: In addition, there is one more thing that your Ultima Bioresearch Center needs to verify.