Chapter 378

Why not?

Wow, it's a repeat student!

This time, Acheron chose to remain silent, perhaps speechless at the girl's chaotic thought process.

After wandering aimlessly around the hall, the girl finally found the exit on the ceiling.

Acheron turned around at this moment. "We're almost there, can you still walk?"

Xing didn't say anything, but silently gave a thumbs up.

She was actually feeling slightly dizzy, but how could she show it at that moment?

And so, the two continued walking forward. This time, no new scenes appeared; there was only a seemingly endless corridor.

However, just when Xing thought he was going to walk a long way, the long corridor in front of him was suddenly blocked by a large door, and at the same time, Acheron also stopped.

"It seems you'll wake up soon." Acheron turned around, looking at the girl before him, a strange emotion flashing in his eyes. "But before we part, I have one more request. It may seem strange or even impolite to you, but I want to know... Have you ever seen the light?"

Light? Everyone has seen light; I'm not blind.

Xing felt a little confused, but looking at the other person's serious eyes, it didn't seem like they were joking, so she began to think about it seriously.

Then, a figure appeared in his mind.

"Although I don't know if this is the answer you're looking for," Xing scratched her head, "I do know someone who really loves to brighten up others."

"Is that so?" Acheron blinked noncommittally, then continued, "May I ask you a few more questions?"

"I... often forget things, so I'm more used to capturing things through 'feelings' than through memories. Whether the answer is correct or not is not important; what matters is your reaction in the moment."

For example, you...

Acheron's voice grew softer and softer with each word until it finally fell completely silent, but Xing could still clearly see her lips moving, indicating that she was still speaking, only she could no longer hear her.

It wasn't just the sounds; the surrounding environment seemed to be fading, as if colors were disappearing from the world, leaving only pure black and white.

Seemingly realizing something from Xing's expression, Acheron also shut her mouth. She stared at the girl in front of her for a long time until she herself became a black and white figure in the other's eyes, before finally making a move.

She reached out and cupped Xing's cheeks, then looked into her eyes.

Xing didn't know what the other person was looking at, but she caught a glimpse of... pure white light in Acheron's eyes.

At the same time, the other person's voice entered her ears again—

"Find him."

The girl's figure jolted suddenly, and then she sat up.

Before she could even figure out what had happened, she instinctively clutched her chest, as if some intense emotion was erupting within her, but she didn't even know what that emotion was.

Or perhaps, was it really an emotion?

"Passenger A Xing, what's wrong?" Pom-Pom's voice reached the girl's ears. Only then did she realize that she was back on the familiar train. "Why are you crying all of a sudden?"

Reminded by the train conductor, Xing realized she had just shed tears, so she quickly wiped them from her face. "It's nothing, I just had a rather strange dream."

"Could it be a nightmare?" Pom-Pom's expression immediately became more worried. "You've only just arrived in the Asdener Star System and already encountered something like this. It seems your resistance to Idrit is quite weak. You'd better be careful."

As he spoke, the train conductor gently patted the girl's leg. "Don't worry, dreams are often the opposite of reality! While you were asleep, the train had already arrived in Penacony."

Upon hearing this, Xing looked out the window and, sure enough, saw the ridiculously luxurious and enormous hotel.

But for some reason, she wasn't very excited.

"What was once a border prison has been transformed into this luxurious hotel. Although I, the train conductor, am also very curious about Penacony looks like now, I can't get off the train. You can experience it for me."

Pom-Pom glanced at Penacony one last time, then added, "Oh, and remember to go to the back and find the March 7th and Dan Heng passengers; they're waiting for you to depart together."

Xing nodded, then stood up.

The unfamiliar dream had gradually faded from her mind, but the mysterious Sea-faring Ranger remained deeply imprinted on her memory. The thought of perhaps encountering him in Penacony filled her with anticipation.

And then there was that last sentence from the other party...

What does "find him" mean? Who does "he" refer to? Also, the light that shone in Acheron's eyes at the end looked familiar... Could it be related to Brother Yue?

As Xing pondered this, she walked towards the back of the carriage and, sure enough, saw two familiar figures in front of the corridor window of the guest carriage.

"You're finally awake?" Seeing Xing approach, March 7th quickly grabbed her luggage. "Dan Heng and I have been waiting for so long! Let's hurry up and go. Himeko and Brother Yue have already left to handle the formalities. Let's go meet up with them!"

And so, the pioneering trio reunited and set off for the most renowned resort in the universe.

After going through a series of complicated and meticulous security checks, the three of them finally arrived at the hotel lobby.

"I understand the need for caution during immigration checks, but isn't this a bit too much?" March 7th complained, clutching a suitcase that had been rummaged through several times, leaving it a mess and difficult to close. "If they knew you had a star core inside you, wouldn't they take it out and check it too?"

"Let's not think about that kind of thing, it's kind of scary." Xing thought for a moment, then quickly shook her head. "If the star core isn't stable enough, Penacony will be in big trouble."

"This is the first time the 'family' has publicly hosted a banquet, so it's understandable that they're being cautious," Dan Heng added from the side. "Anyway, it's good that we're in. Let's go find Mr. Ai Yue and the others."

And so, the three of them quickly arrived at the hotel reception, found Himeko waiting there, and then heard some truly unbelievable news from her—

"What do you mean, Brother Yue has disappeared?"

Chapter 72 This Penacony, the waters run deep.

Ai Yue has disappeared.

Even though these words came from Himeko, who was frowning, the three people present still found it hard to believe.

After all, in their minds, Ai Yue was a powerful being with strength comparable to a star god, Penacony was a galactic resort with excellent service and tight security. From any perspective, there was no reason for Ai Yue to disappear in such a place.

Moreover, this is a very spacious hotel lobby; what conditions would allow someone to disappear here?

"I initially thought he might have forgotten something and went back to the train," Himeko, her brow furrowed, her confusion deepening. "But none of you saw him when you arrived, so that possibility is obviously out of the question."

"So, what exactly happened?" March 7th couldn't help but ask. "Himeko, did you ask any hotel staff for help?"

"That's exactly what I wanted to say." Himeko looked at the three people in front of her. "I checked the security footage with the front desk staff. The footage shows that when I first entered the hotel, I was alone, but I clearly remember Ai Yue being right next to me until I went to the front desk to check in."

"What... what kind of supernatural event is this?" March 7th grabbed Xing tightly, a speechless expression on her face. "No way! We just wanted to enjoy a nice holiday, why do we always get caught up in all sorts of trouble?"

"It's normal for things to go wrong. We're just nobodys. What kind of nobodys would we be if we didn't encounter anything strange?" Hoshino's smile faded, replaced by a serious expression. "But even a big shot like Brother Yue can be captured. What kind of opponent is hiding behind this?"

Although Dan Heng remained silent, he began to scan the hall with his sharp eyes. Clearly, as someone who appeared calm but often used his Strike Cloud- like demeanor to replace thinking, he had already started to include everyone present on the list of people to be examined.

"I don't think we need to worry too much. At least the focus right now isn't on Ai Yue." After regaining some composure, Himeko's face showed a slight smile again. After all, she was the only adult now and needed to soothe the children's emotions. "You should all know Ai Yue's abilities. Rather than saying he will be trapped or captured, I feel it might be the complete opposite."

Himeko's words quickly calmed the three of them down. After all, Ai Yue's strength was indeed beyond doubt. He was someone who could suppress the messengers at will, communicate with the Star God, and even modify the Star God's Blessing. If he was really trapped, then there was obviously no need for them to continue struggling.

Therefore, if they want to continue discussing this matter, they must deduce it based on another possibility.

"So, the problem isn't with Brother Yue, but with us?" Now even March 7th has joined the environmental review team. She now sees everyone around her as someone with malicious intent, like that blond guy over there. "Shouldn't we retreat before anything happens?"

"No rush, let's play along," Xing immediately put on an act upon hearing that Ai Yue might be alright, completely disregarding the fact that she herself had become the one in trouble. "Now that we've discovered there's a problem here, we can't just leave, can we?"

Dan Heng nodded silently, clearly siding with Xing.

"A Xing is right. Facing difficulties, retreating is not the style of pioneers," Himeko nodded approvingly. "Think about it, if this matter ultimately leads to disastrous consequences, and we are very likely the only ones who knew about it beforehand, then leaving now would be abandoning everyone else."

Then Xing and Dan Heng both looked at March 7th.

"Okay, okay, I was just kidding," March 7th muttered, then sighed. "So, what should we do now?"

"Since things have come to this, let's check in first." Himeko thought for a moment, then stood up. "We can't discuss the detailed plan in a place like this. Besides, there's some information I need to tell you in a quiet place."

As Himeko led March 7th and the others through the check-in process, a new problem once again arose before them—

"I'm sorry, we couldn't find Ms. Xing's name in our system." The receptionist gave a puzzled but polite smile. "Did you really make an appointment in advance?"

"You must have made a mistake!" Hoshi said confidently, then looked at Himeko beside him, "My name is definitely on the train's invitation list, right?"

Upon hearing Hoshi's question, Himeko seemed to realize something, and her expression immediately turned awkward.

"Himeko- nee, you definitely made a reservation for me," Hoshino said, her confidence waning after seeing this. "Right?"

"I'm sorry, this was my oversight. When I accepted the invitation, A Xing hadn't even boarded the bus yet, so naturally your name wasn't on the list. After so many things happened, I just forgot about it," Himeko apologized to the girl first, then looked at the front desk staff, "So, can we book an extra room now?"

The receptionist hesitated for a moment. "Well, you're saying this all of a sudden, I'm afraid..."

"This is the most important moment for Penacony. Guests from all over the galaxy have packed this place to the brim, and the hotel security cannot afford the slightest loss. How can this young lady possibly make decisions when something like this suddenly happens?"

At this awkward moment, a flamboyant voice broke in, easing some of the tension. The nameless guests looked in the direction of the voice and saw a familiar, glittering figure standing not far away. "However, if a company were to intervene, the situation might be different?"

That was their old friend, Aventurine, a member of the Strategic Investment Department of Interastral Peace Corporation.

His appearance immediately relieved March 7th and the others. After all, Aventurine held a high position within the company, and if he could step in, he could easily resolve the matter. With Ai Yue's connection, the other party would surely lend a helping hand.

In this way, the problem was easily solved.

However, just as March 7th was about to take the initiative to greet everyone, Himeko stepped forward first and said, "We encountered a few problems during check-in, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused. May I ask who you are?"

Upon hearing this, not only was Aventurine stunned for a moment, but even March 7th and the others couldn't help but exchange bewildered glances.

Why pretend you don't know them?

I don't know, but Himeko must have her reasons for doing this. Let's just watch her performance.

Oh.

After exchanging glances, the three train members remained silent, while Aventurine quickly understood Himeko's meaning. Although he didn't yet understand the significance of her actions, he decided to cooperate. "I am 'Aventurine,' a member of the company's Strategic Investment Department, and the non-performing asset liquidation expert under 'Diamond.'"

He paused for a moment before adding, "He is also a guest who has been waiting for you for a long time."

"I heard that Interastral Peace Corporation also received an invitation from Penacony, so you must be their representative. The company's elites certainly have an extraordinary air about them," Himeko said after a few polite words, then changed the subject, "From what you just said, you seem willing to help us, right?"

"Of course, everyone on the Stellar Train, your names are quite well-known within the company," Aventurine smiled. "Nothing is more precious than friends, especially upright pioneers like you Nameless Guests. So, exchanging a little bit of assistance for your friendship is a worthwhile deal, isn't it?"

As they spoke, the other person approached the front desk. "Miss, you've seen it all. Please let this lady check in for my sake. Don't worry, I have an appointment with Mr. 'Sunday' of the family, and I'll ask him to handle this matter later. I won't cause you any trouble."

The receptionist was still somewhat hesitant, but just then, the phone rang. The person on the other end answered it as if they had grasped a lifeline, and soon a relaxed smile appeared on their face.

"Everyone on the Stellar Train, our manager has indeed received notification from the family that you can check in," the receptionist said, her work becoming smoother again after hanging up the phone. "In addition, we will upgrade your rooms shortly, please wait a moment."

"So fast?" Aventurine raised an eyebrow, a slightly subtle expression on his face. "Penacony's service is indeed as good as the rumors say."

"Please convey my gratitude to the family," Himeko nodded, though a hint of hesitation remained on her face. "However, is it inappropriate to upgrade our rooms separately? After all, as far as I know, there seem to be quite a few faction guests invited by the family."

"Don't worry, these things will be taken care of," the receptionist said with a smile. "When you come to Penacony, all your troubles should be solved by us—that's what our manager says."

As she spoke, she had efficiently completed all the formalities and handed over a few items: "These are your 'Dream Passport.' They serve as both room keys and integrate all the functions and information you need at the 'Dreamscape Hotel,' providing intelligent assistance."

She then gave a few more instructions on how to use the Dream Passport before pointing the nameless guests toward the elevator. "May you all enjoy your dreams at Penacony. Take that elevator to your room."

"Now that the problem is solved, that's great." Aventurine waved his hand. "Everyone, please go and check in. I'll see you later after I've finished the formalities."

With the check-in issue finally resolved, the group quickly found their rooms.

However, because they had already confirmed that there was a problem with this place, no one relaxed. Even March 7th looked very serious, clearly not looking forward to the upcoming "dream trip".

"Alright, everyone go to your rooms and settle your luggage first, then we'll all meet at A Xing's room." After passing through the common area, Himeko said, "We need to discuss the next steps again."

"So why did we pretend we didn't recognize Aventurine just now?"

The group, having reunited, sat around the sofa in Xing's room and began discussing the issue. March 7th eagerly asked, "In this situation, shouldn't we bring Aventurine along to help? After all, there's strength in numbers."

"We do need allies, but that's precisely why we can't appear too close to the company," Himeko explained. "Whether Ai Yue's disappearance was intentional or unintentional, it will obviously attract attention. If it attracts the attention of any potential mastermind, then getting too close to us would actually be detrimental to Aventurine."

"That's a creepy thing to say..." March 7th immediately began to warily scan the room. "There shouldn't be any listening devices or anything like that here, right?"

"I've checked, and it should be fine," Dan Heng said. "However, I also agree with Miss Himeko's idea. Although Aventurine is our friend, he must have his own purpose in coming here. It's not a good choice to bring him in rashly when the situation is still unclear."

"The problem now is, what should we do next?" Xing said from the side. "Aside from knowing that this place might be problematic, we haven't found anything else. Even if we wanted to investigate, we wouldn't know where to start."

"Actually, it's not that we're completely without clues. First of all, the family's behavior this time is very unusual," Himeko explained. "You know, Penacony's 'Grand Gala of Harmony' is only held once a year in the Amber Era, and it has never been open to forces outside of the Harmony before. There must be a reason why so many factions were invited this time."

"Could the problem here be related to the organizers?" March 7th stroked his chin. "That sounds reasonable. Anyone who can cause trouble in Penacony must be a local force!"

"And another clue is hidden in the invitation we received." Himeko said, picking up a music box from the side. "Do you remember the contents of the invitation?"

"We cordially invite 'distinguished guests of the family' to Penacony to join other guests in a grand banquet." As the manager of the train's think tank, Dan Heng spoke fluently. "This invitation came with the music box. Is there a problem?"

"Yes, there's more to this invitation than meets the eye, recorded in a special cipher." Himeko nodded, turning the music box as she spoke, "To witness the impossible in dreams, to find the legacy of the 'watchmaker,' the father of Penacony, and then to answer: Why does life slumber?"

"The watchmaker's estate?" March 7th's eyes widened in surprise. "How is this related to an estate? And, 'Father of Penacony'... what a prestigious title! Could his estate be the ownership of Penacony?"

"I think that's unlikely, after all, Penacony has little to do with its creator now, but this kind of cipher obviously wouldn't have come from a family," Himeko said with a smile and a shake of her head. "So there might be other forces hiding behind this."

"If it wasn't issued by the family, is it possible that even the invitations have nothing to do with the family?" Xing rarely started using her brain. "Someone issued invitations in the name of the family, and the family not only didn't stop it, but tacitly approved and accepted this fact?"

"In short, this is indeed a clue, and I will look into the history of Penacony to see if I can find anything there." Dan Heng nodded. "However, until we have more clues, I still advise us not to act rashly."

"This matter is probably beyond our control. After all, we've likely been under surveillance since the moment Ai Yue disappeared." Himeko shook her head. "However, if we can follow the clues, we might actually find more leads."

"Speaking of Brother Yue, I wonder how he's doing now." Upon hearing the key phrase, March 7th's expression turned somewhat helpless. "If Brother Yue were here, he'd definitely resolve things in no time! Then we could continue our vacation..."

"Relying on others isn't the style of a nobody. Cheer up, Little Three Months." Himeko said, looking up at the ceiling. "As for Ai Yue, I think he's definitely safe, and might even be... watching us right now."