Cables tugged and shifted, and the indicator lights on every Dream-Insertion Device flashed. Eyes that had been shut for years finally opened, taking in the real world they had yearned for in their dreams.
"We're home."
Their entire bodies were submerged in nutrient solution, so even their tears went unseen. Hundreds of "living corpses" floated inside the enormous Nutrient Pod, but only fifty-eight had awakened.
"Judge deeds, not intentions. Without your help, these people might have remained trapped in Hanhai until they died." Number Two's voice came from the Execution House. "But I still sincerely beg you not to open the Execution House's doors in reality. Xinhu will be invaded by shadows, and Number Zero will notice you as well."
Without answering Number Two, Gao Ming removed the Dream-Insertion Device and asked Zhang Ding, "While I was gone, did Eternal Life Pharmaceuticals send anyone to investigate?"
"Seven groups in all." Zhang Ding pointed beneath his feet. "Luckily, this ship is out at sea. As long as I have water, I become very powerful. I did die in a flood, after all."
"Once they've finished investigating, they may deploy the power of an unspeakable. We'd better relocate as soon as possible." Number Two began devising plans for Gao Ming. "Hanjiang is actually a good choice."
To keep Gao Ming from bringing disaster upon the citizens of New Shanghai, Number Two cautiously suggested that he go to Hanjiang, even listing a whole host of advantages.
Gao Ming shook his head slightly, silently assessing the strength at his disposal.
"What are you considering? The unspeakables from the other Blood Cities will be here soon. If you want a share of Xinhu Blood City, surely the more discreet you are, the better." Number Two was still doing everything possible to persuade him when he