Chapter 128: Earth

On the ninth day of the exiles' return, the ordinary people of Earth, through the lens of cameras, witnessed a world they had never glimpsed before.

And those who returned from that realm, bearing wondrous abilities... their kin.

Countless people are thrilled by this, and countless others cheer and shout for the exiles as they unite and break apart the red cloud that humans have tried every method to eliminate but to no avail.

"The crimson clouds have dissipated!! Hahahaha! The very last one has vanished! There will be no red rain now!!"

"Awesome – the Returnees are awesome – we never have to fear the Red Rain or hide anymore!"

"Controlling the weather, immense strength! This is like a power straight out of mythology!"

"It seems they've awakened extraordinary abilities! These powers are incredible. Suddenly, I'm a bit tempted to head to that Exiled Land, ha-ha."

"Upstairs, don't court death. Check the Information Statistical Network. The top three hottest topics are '#Survival Rate in the Exiled Land#, '#Realistic Simulation Images of the Exiled Land#, and '#Essential Conditions for Exile Survivors#'."

"To be honest, when I saw that young lady summon a tornado with a wave of her hand, I was thrilled too. But after reading those three pieces of information, I now think it's better to be an ordinary person on Earth."

"Indeed, what was mentioned upstairs is true. Apart from the eternal night in the Exiled Lands without daylight and the occasional emergence of devouring creatures, let alone the fact that over 700,000 Chinese citizens have vanished within a year, with less than ten thousand officially recorded as having returned. A mere one in seventy chance of survival within a year, I don't think I could endure it myself.

Moreover, according to the National Security Agency's Science and Technology Research Department, the longer one stays in the Exiled Lands, the higher the mortality rate. The probability of death doubles within five years."

"So, to wield the power like those brothers, sisters, and juniors, it truly requires all your luck, courage, and strength."

"Sigh... They've had it tough too."

"One can say that every single person who returns has gone through unimaginable terror and life-threatening situations. I couldn't bear even half an hour in the official virtual Exiled Lands with my VR headset. They've spent a whole year there. It's inconceivable how resilient they must be.

And now, they're back, protecting us from being exiled to the unknown like them."

"Even if we don't regard them as heroes, we should face them with sincerity and respect. After such a long exile, their return should bring them much-needed peace of mind."

The subsequent chat stream was quieter, with fewer sarcastic comments and unrealistic fantasies. Instead, more praise and '666' (a Chinese internet slang for awesome) filled the screen.

As most rational and thoughtful individuals are aware, these returning exiles are actively extending goodwill towards them, taking into consideration the context and translating each line with elegance and reason.

At the very least, these exiles from Hua Guo could have chosen to use their special abilities to satisfy their own selfish desires, just like some particularly ruthless exiles abroad. However, they have decided to help them combat the invasion of the Red Rain instead.

"Heeheehee, my distant cousin is a Pegasus Evolver! He's promised to take us on a thrilling gallop around the village tomorrow, hahaha! Right now, our parents are busy in the kitchen preparing a feast, everyone is so concerned and proud of my cousin."

"Pfft, a galloping horse is nothing! Look at my sister! My own flesh and blood! She's an Ice Evolutionist, hahaha! Is this not a real-life Elsa right before your eyes?!! Check it out, this is the ice castle she created for me in our courtyard! Hahaha!"

Our entire family was overjoyed, for during the year my sister was missing, not a single one of us had a peaceful night's sleep. My mother and father would often jolt awake in the middle of the night, gazing at the sky, fearful of rain. Within that year, their hair turned white, but since my sister's return, just these few days! Their spirits have greatly revived!

You have no idea what expressions and emotions washed over our entire family when my elder sister returned home safe and sound. Our father, a burly Northeastern man with a formidable presence, wept uncontrollably, his sobs echoing through the room. And yes, I too shed tears with equal abandon. But thank heavens, she's back.

Yet, I've noticed that my sister has been on edge, unexpectedly questioning Mom, Dad, and me about intimate details known only to us. It's as if she doubts that this is the real world... But our entire family will be here to support her every step of the way.

And one last thing, forget about the Exiled Grounds. It's truly not a place for you. When my sister came back, she looked at us with eyes as cold and hard as ice, devoid of any emotion."

Soon, the barrage of comments turned into a grand comparison and show-off of the returnees among netizens. While sparking envy and jealousy among a group of people, almost every one of them emphasized the downsides of their places of exile and the unstable condition of the returnees upon their arrival.

This allows everyone to have a clearer understanding of the horrors of the land of exile and the hardships faced by those in exile.

Minister Tu examined the comments and feedback from netizens as compiled by the Information Department, a hint of satisfaction finally appearing on his face.

"I always say, we should have faith in our fellow countrymen and companions. People are fundamentally compassionate; hopes and kindness outweigh the shadows in our hearts."

At this moment, most of the people in the Information Department also had smiles on their faces, and everyone seemed much more relaxed. At least they could sense that in the coming months, the future exiles and ordinary people would be able to coexist harmoniously.

And this, precisely, is what everyone hopes for as the desired outcome.

Not to mention that the exiles will also assist the research department in studying how to use the existing Earth's energy to disperse the red clouds and resist the invasion of the red rain. Under such circumstances, how could ordinary humans and exiles possibly end up with the worst outcome?

When Chen Shijin and his team returned, they were met with the amused gazes of everyone in the Security Department.

Even the bespectacled researcher, who had been most concerned about the exiles' immense power and uncontainable nature, managed to force an awkward, polite smile upon seeing Chen Shijin.

Chen Shijin: "…Focus on your research."

There was no need to push for social graces.

Researcher Bai: "…"

He turned and walked away.

His judgment was spot on! The exiles were all dangerous elements, and it was imperative to take precautions against them at all costs.

Moreover, this Chen Jin, who was always smiling, was the most perilous among the perilous elements! No matter how gentle and charming his smile might be!

After this live broadcast, the relationship between the ordinary people of Hua Guo and the exiles entered a very warm and harmonious "honeymoon period."

Every ordinary person treats the exiles with great kindness, and their gaze towards them is filled with admiration and eagerness.

The exiles, in turn, reciprocated the kindness of the people around them with equal goodwill. Almost every returnee from Hua Guo has registered their emergency contact information at the local police station, and on average, they engage in acts of bravery and righteousness every three days.

Among these, capturing thieves, apprehending villains, and climbing trees to rescue cats occurred most frequently.

As the exiles abroad banded together to seize the nation's governance, those who returned home swiftly adapted to their new lives.

"The Eternal Heart Returns: Hive 19989 out of 100000"

"Radix Isatidis: Hahaha, my fellow mates! My teachers and professors were astounded by my improved herb recognition skills upon my return! Hahahaha, I'm now part of four new drug research teams, receiving four salaries and allowances! Hahahaha, who can top that?"

"Speedster: Pfft. Nowadays, I'm a specially invited auxiliary police officer across the entire province. I roam everywhere, nabbing fugitives with pinpoint accuracy. As long as I run fast enough, bullets can't catch me. Within a month, I've already been awarded third-class merits three times. Soon, I'll be promoted to a full-time position.

But that's not the main point. Hahahaha! The highlight is that I used to fall prey to a pyramid scheme and got caught, but now I'm on the side of justice! Hahahaha!"

"Superior Tea Leaves, 10K a Sheet: Pfft, what's so impressive about two workaholics? Look at my username. Nowadays, I laze around at home every day, enjoying the variety of delicious meals prepared by my parents and grandma, and only receive ten tea enthusiasts each day. Now, this is the life!

Oh, and an international perfume company has approached me to create a unique tea fragrance. I'm contemplating it."

"Bear Bro: Sigh."

"Tiger Bro: Sigh."

"Largest Land Elephant: Sigh."

"Largest Land Elephant: What's there to brag about? We were once specially invited to do manual labor, doing the work of a hundred men! Hah, they all kneeled and called me 'dad'."

As Chen Shiming scanned through the cheerful messages in the group, a smile involuntarily graced his face.

He was sitting on the sofa when a plate of bright red cherries suddenly appeared before him. Looking up, he saw the face of his mother, whom he both missed and relied upon.

"Tsk, don't look at me like that. It's so cheesy. How did you turn out like your dad?"

Mrs. Jin rolled her eyes playfully at her son before pulling him into an affectionate embrace.

"Try these cherries! We brought them back from abroad – our very own homegrown variety! They're sweet and huge!"

Chen Shi Jin chuckled. "I'm not as sentimental as the old man."

Then, he felt a gentle tap on the back of his head, followed by a plump, red cherry being stuffed into his mouth. His seemingly mild-mannered but wildly adventurous father took a seat across from him.

"Your mother and I have made some discoveries regarding the origin of the alien invasion, though they're merely speculations and associations without solid evidence. Would you like to hear them?"

Chen Shi Jin's gaze sharpened, and he straightened up, nodding. "If it's from you two, I'll listen even if it's nonsense."

He trusted his parents unconditionally.

They were the people who loved him the most in this world.

Mr. Chen flashed a charming and gentle smile, pushing up his rimmed glasses. "Before you were born, your mother and I were deeply fascinated by unsolved mysteries and expeditions into uncharted territories."

Chen Shi Jin: ... Isn't this backstory explanation a bit premature?

"I was engrossed in researching ancient texts, global folklore, and unscientific or supernatural occurrences."

"And your mother was the most beautiful and powerful rose in the realm of exploration."

Chen's father gave a swooning smile as he gazed at Jin's mother, who playfully blew him a kiss.

"Our paths crossed during an adventure deep in Changbai Mountain."

Chen Shi Jin: Hmph.

So all that was just fluff. You didn't need to say it.

Or were you indirectly teasing me for being single?

Chen Shi Jin's lips twitched, and an image flashed through his mind. If he wanted to, he could easily end his single status!

"Can we cut to the chase?"

Father Chen and Mother Jin both shot their son a sympathetic glance, the kind one would give to a singleton, before Father Chen kindly nodded his approval.

"Let's keep it brief then."

"I fell head over heels for your mother at first sight, and even more so on our second meeting. We shared the same passions and aspirations, and together we traveled to many magnificent, enchanting places."

Chen Shi-Jin: ...

"Then, while we were exploring a lost pyramid in the desert, you came along."

"That pyramid was deeply buried in the sands, only revealing itself at specific times. It was said to be the final resting place of true deities, where divine powers of eternal life, far surpassing human comprehension, still lingered."

Chen Shi-Jin: "This sounds like a cheap adventure novel."

Father Chen chuckled. "Ah, but for your mother and me, it was a firsthand adventure tale."

Chen Shi-Jin laughed too, envisioning his parents as they once were - young, vibrant, and full of spirit. It truly was their legendary adventure.

"So, did you obtain this power of eternal life?"

Mother Jin chuckled. "There is indeed an ancient pyramid there. Deep within the pyramid, there's an equally magnificent suspended mini-pyramid. But once that mini-pyramid is removed, we'd all be buried in the desert. So... we didn't get anything."

"Oh, no. Dad and I got you!"

Looking at his mother's proud and enthusiastic face, Chen Shi Jin suddenly teased, "You two were still passionate out there?"

Then, Chen Shi Jin got hit again.

"At first, we thought that pyramid didn't have any extraordinary powers. The suspended mini-pyramid might have been a result of some unique force and magnetic field reaching a balance. But after you were born, things felt off."

Chen Shi Jin raised an eyebrow. "Was I not normal before I could talk?"

Mother Jin shook her head. "Of course, my Jin Jin was the best baby. However, to be honest, I haven't told you this before, but there were signs when I was carrying you."

"When I strongly desired something, it would always come true."

"One time, when you were about six months old, I had an intense craving for braised fish from an old restaurant that night. But the owner had gone back to his hometown for a wedding and couldn't return. I was so upset that I cried while holding my belly, complaining to you. Then..."

Mother Jin's expression was hard to describe. "In the middle of the night, a delivery person knocked on our door, bringing authentic braised fish."

"Your father and I were stunned. Then the owner of that restaurant called, claiming to be a long-time customer and friend who knew about my pregnancy struggles. He said he taught his restaurateur buddy how to make that dish just for me, after seeing my post on social media. And so, he had it delivered via courier."

Mom Jin sighed. "But the thing is, I never posted anything on social media, and it's unlikely the owner would go to such lengths just for me. Yet, this bizarre incident actually happened."

"Before you could even speak, your father and I would occasionally witness inexplicable occurrences—like a freshly prepared bottle of milk suddenly appearing in your hand or a clean diaper, as if it had just been changed. If not for your father's meticulous record-keeping, we might have doubted our own memories at times."

"When you were three months old, we were certain that you were an extraordinary child."

Mom Jin's face lit up with a tender, blissful smile. "Our one-of-a-kind, unique treasure in this world."

Chen Shi Jin's cheeks flushed slightly.

He was twenty-seven years old!

"Then, as you grew, your power became increasingly difficult to control."

"At first, we thought keeping this secret and teaching you how to use your abilities for self-defense would suffice. But... when you casually mentioned killing a wanted criminal and even triggered minor earthquakes, we realized your capabilities were far more remarkable than we anticipated.

We needed to find a way to rein in that power."

At this moment, Father Chen pushed up his glasses and said, "Your power is increasing too rapidly, beyond what your body can handle. According to my calculations, every time you use your ability, your body is being corroded by the backlash of that power. If you keep using it unchecked, our son might not live past ten years."

Chen Shijin fell silent for a moment. "So...?"

"That's why we made you mute."

"It's our incapability that prevented us from protecting our beloved treasure. And we left you to grow up alone for so long, without the presence of your parents."

"Ah Jin, I'm sorry."

Suddenly, Chen Shijin felt a slight tinge of sadness in his nose. He shook his head forcefully. "No, you've always been protecting me. I know that."

"You've been taking risks for me all these years, and every item you sent back has made my body stronger. I can feel it, I know you love me."

"I love you both too."

Gold Mother hugged her son's head again and rubbed it affectionately.

The gentle and refined middle-aged man also smiled warmly. "We've traveled to many places, all in search of legendary areas with unknown energy and magnetic fields."

"We've witnessed glaciers in the Arctic, active volcanoes, underwater vortices in the Bermuda Triangle, the icy caves of sacred Tibetan mountains, and even revisited those buried pyramids."

"Our physical strength may have dwindled over these two decades, but our determination kept us going, fueled by our aspirations."

"Then, we stumbled upon the Anomaly Rifts."

Chen Shijin lifted his slightly reddened eyes.

"In those invisible rifts, we sensed an unknown force seeping into our world."

"It might have existed for eons or could continue to do so. However, your mother and I noticed that these rifts seemed to be spreading, growing larger."

"And, most importantly,"

"The energy from the Red Rain invasion feels eerily similar to the chilling energy seeping through those unseen rifts."

Chen Shijin's pupils constricted.

"Son, if you wish to completely eradicate the Red Rain invasion, perhaps you'll need to retrace the legendary adventures your parents once took."

"Those places might hold the essence of it all."

As Chen's father spoke, the three of them—father, mother, and child—heard a distinctive notification sound simultaneously on their phones.

Chen Jinnan reached for her phone and, upon checking it, her heart skipped a beat.

"Sudden Transformation! Red Rain Invasion Emerges Simultaneously in Six Nations! Exiles Unite to Resist the Red Rain!"

Chen Jin looked at this message and tugged at the corner of his mouth.

The invasion was escalating.

Beep.

Another text message arrived on his phone.

Bai Mo: "The places where the Red Rain appeared in the Six Kingdoms are gathering points for the exiles."

Chen Shijin received the message with a composed expression.

Chen Shi: "Oh."

So what?

As Chen Shi waited for the accomplished researcher's response, he suddenly heard a tapping sound on the glass of his apartment's rooftop:

"Darling, open the window! Darling, open the window!! Your lovebird has returned!"

Chen Shi: "F**k, f**k, f**k, f**k, f**k, f**k, f**k!"

Chen's Father and Mother: "?!?!!?!"

The entire family turned their heads to see the brightly colored parrot.

"Darling! Quickly open the window to welcome your lovebird!"

Chen Shi: "...Suddenly, being single seems pretty good."