Unlike the other four layers, the Fifth Layer had very few permanent residents.
The officially registered population was less than two thousand, making the Fifth Layer more like private territory. Travel applications were difficult to approve, and aside from those who worked there, people from the other layers rarely came here.
But with Qiu Ming around, Zhang Heng and Electronic Sheep's applications were approved quickly.
After getting their tickets, the three followed the instructions into the designated waiting hall. It was just as deserted here, with only six or seven scattered travelers besides them preparing to head to the Fifth Layer.
"Don't look around," Qiu Ming warned Electronic Sheep, who was glancing everywhere. "Don't forget your current identities. Many of the people going to the Fifth Layer are company employees. Don't let them spot any inconsistencies."
"You sure are thoughtful, but are you really looking out for us?" Electronic Sheep was skeptical, but he still withdrew his gaze as Qiu Ming had instructed and stared straight ahead.
"Of course. I've met countless people and understand my current situation perfectly. If I make any inappropriate move, before it can even take effect, your friend beside you will have already slit my throat or put a hole in the back of my head," Qiu Ming said. "I like my job, and I'm grateful to the company that gave it to me, but my life matters a little more."
"You do know your place," Electronic Sheep sneered.
"Recognizing danger is one of the most important survival instincts of living things. Forget humans—even paramecia know to avoid harmful stimuli and move toward beneficial ones through stress responses," Qiu Ming said. "You two, on the other hand, are the ones being unwise. I've warned you many times, yet you insist on heading into danger."
"That's