Ch. 21"They'd Even Save the Trouble of Dumping the Bodies"
Key Plot Points and Events
- The interviewees are informed they will undergo five days of basic training at a remote base, with all internal and external communication cut off.
- They are told to buy daily necessities at the base, as they only brought clothes.
- Around 100 interviewees remain, with the rest leaving due to the harsh conditions.
- Ren Suo and the remaining interviewees are transported to the base by bus.
- Upon arrival, they see multiple buses from different cities, indicating a large-scale gathering of civil servants for the National Security Bureau.
Character Developments
- Ren Suo becomes more interested in the National Security 18th Bureau and its benefits.
- Li Qingxuan, Qiao Muyi, and Jie Qiansi decide to stay for the training, possibly due to personal plans or the 'rumor' about the bureau.
- Jie Qiansi tries to befriend Li Qingxuan and Qiao Muyi, adding Qiao Muyi's WeChat.
Significant Themes
- The harsh conditions and unexpected nature of the training camp test the interviewees' resolve and commitment.
- The National Security Bureau's mysterious and secretive nature is emphasized, with the gathering of interviewees from multiple cities hinting at a larger operation.
Character Interactions
- Ren Suo tries to acquire Qiao Muyi's key while she's asleep on the bus but is interrupted when she wakes up.
- Jie Qiansi sits next to Ren Suo and tries to engage in conversation with Li Qingxuan and Qiao Muyi.
- Ren Suo and Jie Qiansi discuss the large-scale gathering of interviewees at the base.