Chapter 64

"Shushu is truly amazing," Nan Yuan said with a light smile. "Thank you, Shushu."
"I’ll always protect you," Tao Shushu said with a laugh, carefully touching Nan Yuan’s arm.
Nan Yuan’s arm had a thin layer of muscle. As he forcefully manipulated the spacecraft controls, his arm tensed, making the lines appear even more defined.
He chuckled softly, accepting Shushu’s protection. "We’re about to land."
The spacecraft began to decelerate. Outside the porthole, massive shockwaves stirred up dust from the ground, and scrap metal reflected the light like tiny tentacles.
Tao Shushu’s heart sank sharply, the living conditions on this Trash Planet were far worse than on a barren planet.
Suddenly, an anomaly occurred: the discarded metal pieces assembled into a giant mechanical arm that lunged violently toward the spacecraft.
Tao Shushu was startled and quickly switched outside the spacecraft to block it.
The mechanical arm was enormous, even a single finger was as large as the spacecraft, as if it had gathered all the combat power of the Trash Planet.
Tao Shushu could only block one of the mechanical arm’s hands.
Just as she strained against it, the mechanical arm swiftly launched a new attack.
Every piece of the assembled machinery was equipped with spotlights, and dense, crimson lasers wove together into a sharp net capable of cutting through anything.
Tao Shushu could shield physical objects, but her intangible form couldn’t block the light.
At that moment, Nan Yuan opened the porthole.
Bracing one hand on the control panel, he fixed his gaze on the sharp laser net ahead.
The direct beams of light twisted passively, wavering and deviating from their paths.
Nan Yuan’s face turned pale, and sweat beaded on his forehead.
He gritted his teeth hard, and the entire laser net shifted off course, exploding like fireworks at their climax, with rays bursting out like elliptical petals.
The central mechanical arm bore the brunt of the laser cuts.
Meanwhile, Tao Shushu had already flashed back into the spacecraft. Together with Nan Yuan, she gripped the directional control lever, swiftly changing their course.
Amid the crimson glow, the freshly assembled mechanical arm shattered into pieces once more, breaking apart and falling.
The survivors who had been on edge as the hurricane roared through the portholes now wiped away their tears and gazed together at the dazzling mechanical arm, watching its final rays fade away.
Tao Shushu let out a sigh of relief, still shaken by the close call, and quickly administered several bottles of Health Potions to Nan Yuan.
Nan Yuan slumped weakly into his chair, utterly drained. Manipulating thousands of laser beams at once had taken a massive toll on his abilities.
Cheng Feimao took over the responsibility of piloting the spacecraft.
The ship shuddered violently as it entered orbit and landed safely.
Nan Yuan looked out into the night, still catching his breath, but his silhouette was as firm and steady as a mountain. Slowly, he extended his hand, and a brilliant white light flowed from his palm, piercing through the vast darkness like the morning star.
"All artificial intelligence that defies peace will meet its end. The dawn of humanity will still rise."
Tao Shushu, like all the survivors watching the screen, nodded firmly.
The night on the Trash Planet was so dark you couldn't see your hand in front of your face. Fortunately, Nan Yuan's light-based abilities provided illumination, and once they found the right trajectory, the spacecraft landed safely.
"Nan Yuan, you're amazing," Tao Shushu said, ruffling Nan Yuan's hair.
Nan Yuan curled his fingers slightly. "Mm."
He once again summoned his abilities to survey the surroundings.
"There's a convoy to the northeast; no movement in other directions," Nan Yuan directed everyone methodically as they began disembarking in groups to explore.
Tao Shushu, still shaken, cautiously explored the area around the spacecraft.
The recent attack by the mechanical arm had made her realize that, as an outsider, there were times when she couldn't intervene in the dangers surrounding Nan Yuan.
Thankfully, Nan Yuan was cautious and capable enough, otherwise, things could have turned very dangerous. Tao Shushu patted her chest and began carefully examining the environment of the spacecraft docking port.
Above the port, remnants of the recently destroyed machinery remained, with occasional sparks and flashes from incompletely shattered mechanical fragments.
After scouring the entire port, Tao Shushu forcefully dismantled a few remaining robots.
Nan Yuan had come prepared with ample thermal weapons and quickly subdued the remaining artificial intelligence.
After a brief confrontation, Nan Yuan seized control of the port.
He swiftly retrieved the Bloodsucking Grass.
Tiny and eager, the Bloodsucking Grass absorbed enough energy spheres and rapidly multiplied, spreading out.
Soon, the area around the port was covered with inconspicuous blades of grass, lying in wait quietly.
As Nan Yuan had initially planned, the Trash planet wouldn't be their final stronghold, so securing the port was the most advantageous move.
The ability users were inspecting the port, conducting a thorough sweep for any remaining artificial intelligence that might attack humans.
Nan Yuan paused. "They're getting closer."
Seeing Nan Yuan speak, Tao Shushu looked towards the northeast and faintly spotted headlights.
A few minutes later, a tentative question came from that direction: "Which planet are you humans from?"
It was only then that Tao Shushu got a clear look at the newcomers.
They had several vehicles, all modified to some extent, with four or five ability users in each, every one of them armed.
Nan Yuan controlled the light in the northeast direction.
Tao Shushu couldn't help but chuckle, the vehicles of the trash planet natives had cartoon-style exteriors.
Hearing Tao Shushu's surprise, Nan Yuan explained, "The C1 star system prioritizes children protection. The materials and riveting used in children's vehicles are of the highest grade."
Aside from military-grade materials, children's products had the best craftsmanship.
Cheng Feimao praised, "We came to the right place. The Trash Planet is indeed full of treasures, we can assemble better vehicles too."
Because of the lead vehicle, Tao Shushu couldn't take things seriously and couldn't even suspect if they had any ulterior motives.
Just then, the game popped up with a mission prompt: [There are 2,000 surviving humans on the trash planet. Please assist Nan Yuan in recruiting the ability users of the trash planet. Mission reward: Influence Points x20,000, Gold Coins x2,000.]
Tao Shushu clicked to accept the mission.
There were quite a few humans on the trash planet. Tao Shushu quietly relayed the information to Nan Yuan.
Nan Yuan stood within the protective circle of the Bloodsucking Grass, one hand resting on his particle gun as he warily watched the convoy of trash planet natives.
An elegant, gray-haired man stepped out of the vehicle.
Behind him followed a bodyguard carrying a weapon.
The man raised his hands and instructed the bodyguard to put away his weapon as well.
The bodyguard seemed reluctant, but the man said, "They just destroyed the AI's strongest combat unit. We can trust them."
Both Tao Shushu and Nan Yuan stared intently at them. One of the man's sleeves was empty, and his other hand seemed somewhat stiff.
After a brief standoff, the bodyguard set down his weapon.
"Forgive me, I have no offensive abilities," the man introduced himself. "My name is Xie Jin. Most people call me Dr. Xie."
Tao Shushu used her exploration skill on Xie Jin.
The data showed that Xie Jin indeed had no abilities. Before the AI rebellion, he had participated in the assembly of components for "Chu" and was a renowned expert in the field of computer science.
No wonder even ability users obeyed him without question.
Tao Shushu grew even more cautious about Dr. Xie.
"When the AI rebelled, the AI in my lab self-destructed and injured me," Dr. Xie explained.
Nan Yuan still kept his hand on the particle gun. The shifting light around him and the quietly growing Bloodsucking Grass formed two hidden lines of defense.
"Just now, we were thinking how difficult it was to deal with the mechanical arm. Destroying it must require a very special ability."
Nan Yuan grew slightly more alert. If Dr. Xie and the others had witnessed the destruction of the mechanical arm, they could also deduce his ability.
He raised an eyebrow and stopped manipulating the light.
Dr. Xie smiled. "Thank you for your trust."
From Dr. Xie, Tao Shushu learned about the situation on the trash planet.
Currently, there were two main groups of surviving humans on the trash planet, separated by the spaceship port area, each occupying a large mechanical processing facility as their base.
Previously, the spaceship port was controlled by the AI.
By scavenging and assembling components from the trash planet, the surviving humans here had managed to maintain a considerable level of combat capability.
Once, Dr. Xie even assembled several robots and built control programs in an attempt to infiltrate the ranks of the artificial intelligence, but he was exposed.
After that, the AI's defenses became much tighter.
Dr. Xie was the second-in-command in the team, acting as the strategist, while the leader was currently stationed at the base in the eastern sector.
With the port as the dividing line, the western processing area was occupied by another faction. The AI had always tightly controlled the center to prevent communication between the two sides.
Nan Yuan, however, was more concerned about the AI's combat methods.
The AI had even proposed supporting one of the factions, they had fully grasped the human tactics of both overt and covert schemes, which sent a chill down Tao Shushu's spine.
Dr. Xie looked at Nan Yuan with great interest. "The laser cutting from the mechanical arms is too powerful. We've only been able to defend ourselves, unable to counterattack. Just now, we were fighting the AI when they suddenly withdrew en masse. Thankfully, or our firepower..."
Nan Yuan pieced together the information he had just acquired. "Wait, during the battle, all the components of the mechanical arms withdrew collectively."
"Yes."
Nan Yuan took a deep breath. "You're more familiar with the Trash Planet. If the AI intends to blow it up, how could they make the neighboring planets explode as well?"
Tao Shushu had initially relaxed upon seeing the two sides conversing amicably, but upon hearing Nan Yuan's question, she suddenly became much more alert.
Calculating the timing, the mechanical arms had withdrawn during the battle and intercepted Nan Yuan's group as they were preparing to land, right around the time the AI's pursuit ship was destroyed.
The AI's communication was highly efficient.
They must have learned that Nan Yuan's group had successfully reached the Trash Planet, which was now entirely under human control.
If they chose to destroy the Trash Planet...
As a functional planet, the Trash Planet was larger than a barren planet.
After hearing the analysis, Dr. Xie's expression darkened. "They probably wouldn't choose to blow it up, it's too much effort. But they would release a virus."
Mechanical lifeforms didn't need to breathe, but humans did.
"We discovered that the initial human infections with the zombie virus during the apocalypse weren't a result of natural selection," Dr. Xie said.
This was something the survivors on the barren planets hadn't known.
Zombies, supernatural abilities, the full-scale evolution of plants and animals, no one would have thought that the zombie outbreak was man-made.
Dr. Xie's lips trembled. "The AI I created held a relatively high position among the artificial intelligence. At that time, I learned that the AI's plan to exterminate humanity wasn't limited to just force."
Nan Yuan clenched his fist. He had also suspected that his brother's infection with the zombie virus was suspicious, but he hadn't known that even the zombification wasn't a natural phenomenon.
"Nan Yuan." Tao Shushu worriedly tugged lightly on Nan Yuan's arm.
Nan Yuan quickly regained his composure. "Now is not the time to investigate the truth. We need to prepare for the AI's counterattack as soon as possible."
Behind Dr. Xie, the blond-haired bodyguard muttered unhappily, "Why did you have to come to this Trash Planet and drag us into this mess?"
"Bob, shut up," Dr. Xie scolded.
But Bob still wore a look of disdain on his face. Among the locals, a few shared Bob's opinion and were grumbling angrily.
Tao Shushu was instantly furious. Not wanting to reveal her trump card, she restrained herself from knocking Bob on the head.
Nan Yuan's expression remained unchanged.
Cheng Feimao retorted, "Even without us, do you think the AI would let you live freely forever? In the eyes of artificial intelligence, humans are nothing but a burden to the planet."
Bob argued defiantly, "Even if I have to die, I don’t want to die because of you."
"If it weren’t for Boss Nan Yuan destroying the mechanical arms, you’d probably have been sliced apart by lasers in no time."
"Enough," Nan Yuan stopped Cheng Feimao. His ears twitched slightly as he tilted his head toward the west.
While seemingly advising Cheng Feimao to calm down in a low voice, he secretly gestured for Cheng Feimao to go investigate the west.
Tao Shushu also saw Nan Yuan’s signal. She wanted to stay and listen to Nan Yuan’s conversation but feared danger from the west. In the end, she reluctantly followed Cheng Feimao away.
Dr. Xie stepped in to mediate, "Bob, they’re right. Humanity should unite now. The AI won’t spare any of us."
"We chose the Trash Planet as our landing site because it has various recyclable materials suitable for modifying and enhancing our combat capabilities. The AI’s defenses here are relatively weak. Additionally, the number of survivors on this planet is small and concentrated, making it easier to unite," Nan Yuan declared clearly.
The Trash Planet was the best destination Nan Yuan could think of.
The bodyguard snorted coldly but didn’t dare say more. The mechanical arm unit they had faced had caused heavy casualties, yet Nan Yuan had taken them out in one move. In terms of combat ability alone, there was a vast gap between Nan Yuan and them.
"That was the plan," Dr. Xie said with a bitter smile. "Unfortunately, it seems the AI rates me quite highly and has been hunting me down relentlessly."
The bodyguard grew anxious. "Dr. Xie, compared to them, we came to the Trash Planet to, "
Before he could finish, Tao Shushu suddenly switched back. "Nan Yuan, they’re racing with Cheng Feimao and heading this way."
Nan Yuan immediately raised his particle gun and made a hand signal. The survivors from the barren planet quickly formed a combat formation, each taking cover behind available barriers.
"Hey, are you looking for a fight again?" the bodyguard immediately protested.
Nan Yuan coldly warned, "Someone’s coming."
He frowned. Cheng Feimao’s ability was speed, making him the most suitable for reconnaissance, but it seemed the enemy was far more powerful than Cheng Feimao.
Cheng Feimao ran with all his might to get ahead. "Boss, there are a lot of them, and they seem really strong..."
However, Cheng Feimao only saw the exposed gun barrels and Dr. Xie’s group.
Without another word, he quickly found cover.
On Dr. Xie's side, the others quickly escorted him back into the vehicle. Bob, the bodyguard, didn't entirely trust Nan Yuan but didn't dare gamble with his life, so he reluctantly positioned himself as the outermost layer of the human shield, grumbling under his breath.
"Bob, if we were enemies, you'd already be on the ground. Your head would be ready to be kicked like a ball." From the west, several tall ability users approached, their tone familiar, as if they knew Bob and his group well.
The bodyguard named Bob widened his eyes. "You're not dead?"
"Bob, you're still as unobservant as ever," the ability user chuckled. "That's why I'm pretty sure I won't die before you."
"Hmph, I'm not that weak either." Bob's face flushed with embarrassment. If these newcomers had been enemies, he likely would have been finished. He had no idea how that kid Nan Yuan had known.
The ability user didn't respond further. Instead, he saluted Dr. Xie. "Dr. Xie, it's fortunate you're still alive. Our mission hasn't failed."
Then, the ability user turned his gaze toward Nan Yuan. "Hey, newcomer to the Trash Planet, your reflexes and defense are impressive. Looks like you're from the military too, no wonder you took down the mechanical arm."
The moment the unfamiliar ability user spoke, Nan Yuan's expression turned guarded.
"What's wrong?" Tao Shushu asked Nan Yuan.
Earlier, fearing these people might cause trouble, she had hurried over to warn them. Only now did Tao Shushu notice that the newly arrived ability users, despite their casual stance resembling street thugs, held their weapons with precision. Their formation allowed for both offense and defense, showing clear tactical discipline. It had a military vibe.
Could they be acquaintances of Nan Yuan? She instinctively activated an exploration skill.
Nan Yuan had already stood up and called out the leader's name. "Captain Zhou Yan."
The laid-back Zhou Yan instinctively snapped to attention. "Nan Yuan. You're alive!"
On the screen, Tao Shushu's exploration results appeared.
Zhou Yan, former captain of the Second Legion's Special Operations Team, with a fire-based ability.
Nan Yuan looked at Zhou Yan with a complicated expression.
Zhou Yan remained at attention. In the past, he would often visit Nan Yuan's home to report to his father. In front of Commander Nan, he always stood ramrod straight.
To be fair, every soldier in the Second Legion would instinctively obey when they saw Commander Nan.
If Nan Yuan had to name someone in the Second Legion he trusted, Zhou Yan would be one. In the past, Zhou Yan and Nan Yuan's brother were close partners, and he had often secretly taught Nan Yuan shooting and combat techniques.
But the adjutant his father trusted had also betrayed him.
Nan Yuan's expression grew even more conflicted. It seemed Zhou Yan had escorted Dr. Xie to the Trash Planet, meaning Dr. Xie must possess something that the artificial intelligence feared. For now, he couldn't tell if Zhou Yan was still trustworthy.
Among all the people present, the only one he could trust wholeheartedly was Tao Shushu.
Tao Shushu wanted to assess further, but when she glanced over, she noticed Nan Yuan’s influence value had suddenly increased by 1,000. It seemed that as soon as Zhou Yan recognized Nan Yuan, the influence value had risen. From this, it appeared Zhou Yan was likely a good person.
Zhou Yan blinked, voluntarily set down his weapon, and walked over to Nan Yuan. He cracked a rather unfunny joke, "Look at me, still afraid of being punished by the commander for poor posture."
Tao Shushu gently nudged Nan Yuan.
Nan Yuan smiled, "You haven’t changed much."
"Heh, aside from a few more scars," Zhou Yan laughed. "Nan Yuan, I’ll hand over the entire western sector to you."
He waved his hand, silencing the doubts from those behind him. "I’m only good at fighting, not thinking. It’s great, I can be directed by the leader again."
About half of the dozen or so people behind Zhou Yan had come from the Second Legion. When they saw Nan Yuan’s face, they smiled.
The other half, seeing that their companions and Zhou Yan had no objections, also raised no dissent.
Bob, however, was a bit dissatisfied. He spoke before Nan Yuan could, "Dr. Xie is the smartest."
Zhou Yan nodded, "Yes, but I’m not choosing a strategist. I’m the captain of the Second Legion, so of course, I’ll listen to Nan Yuan."
"Bob, why don’t you go back to the vehicle and take stock of the supplies first," Dr. Xie said.
Bob ended up feeling awkward.
Dr. Xie said with interest, "So you’re Commander Nan’s son. My apologies, I only knew your mother, so I didn’t recognize you."
The three factions on the Trash Planet had temporarily gathered together.
Although the threat of artificial intelligence still loomed, fortunately, the forces distributed on the east and west sides of the Trash Planet already knew each other and had come here with the same goal.
The three groups shared a common objective: to deal with the artificial intelligence.
Nan Yuan didn’t engage in excessive pleasantries. "Let’s get through tonight first."
Tao Shushu browsed the system store repeatedly but couldn’t find any item capable of protecting the entire planet.
She wanted to splurge on a large, fully-equipped spaceship for Nan Yuan, but the price was beyond her means.
As a compromise, she considered preparing some gas masks for everyone. While everyone was moving to the underground space of the port, Tao Shushu grabbed Nan Yuan. "Nan Yuan, I can buy some gas masks on my end."
Nan Yuan chuckled softly. There were a full two thousand people on the Trash Planet, and Shushu was usually frugal with her purchases. He didn’t want her to spend too much. "Shushu, we’ll find a way."
"Alright," Tao Shushu said, unable to suppress a yawn.
Nan Yuan immediately felt regretful. Too many incidents had occurred tonight, and he’d forgotten how late it was. He quickly said, "Shushu, you go rest first. I’ll handle the rest, okay?"
Tao Shushu wasn’t entirely at ease, but she couldn’t resist the drowsiness. In the end, she spent a lot on Health Potions for Nan Yuan before going to sleep.


Author’s Note:
Nan Yuan: Can’t let Shushu spend too much.
Shushu: If only I’d known earlier, I would’ve splurged on tons of outfits to play dress-up with my miracle cub before I knew Nan Yuan was real!