Chapter 71: True to Himself

Chapter 71: True to Himself

Tan Xing had originally planned to leave after finding clues, intending to return later with reinforcements. The place was too perilous; lingering would surely invite disaster.

But the woman's condition was critical, and as long as there was a sliver of hope for her survival, he couldn't stand idly by. Yet, his own life was now gravely endangered.

Tan Xing wrestled with his conscience, and finally, a bitter smile tugged at his lips. He couldn't bear to see a life vanish without reason or understanding.

Having made his decision, the next step was to wait for the right moment. Unfamiliar with the conditions below, he could only wait for the two men to return before cautiously descending to investigate.

An hour later, faint sounds emerged from beneath the ground. Tan Xing crouched back into his hiding spot under the grassy cover.

After the two men emerged and replaced the water jar to its original position, they departed. Tan Xing listened as their footsteps faded into the distance, waiting another five minutes before emerging from his hiding spot.

The western horizon was reduced to a thin line of orange, the last rays of sunlight slanting across his body. Tan Xing's resolve hardened; having made his choice, he wouldn't hesitate.

Before acting, however, he needed to inform Liang Xigui. Throughout history, the fate of lone heroes had been grim, and Tan Xing refused to meet the same end. He intended to preserve his life.

He briefly described his location and the situation, but the poor network signal in the outskirts meant he had to squat and wait for five minutes before successfully sending the message.

In the final minute before darkness enveloped the sky, Tan Xing, guided by the fading light, approached the water jar. With great effort, he moved it aside, revealing a layer of dirt covering a numeric lock.

Lying on the ground, Tan Xing listened intently to the subtle sounds emanating from the lock. These mechanisms followed patterns, and finding the rhythm was key to unlocking them.

Silence enveloped him, the only sensation his heartbeat. Having entered the first two digits, he now faced the crucial third number.

It was this one. Tan Xing set the dial on six, then turned the wheel, lifting upward. The iron lid slowly lifted open.

Far from feeling joy, Tan Xing felt an overwhelming weight. This descent was fraught with danger, and he questioned himself once more: Was risking everything for a stranger worth it?

His answer remained unchanged. Regardless of the cost, he acted to be true to himself.

Peering down carefully, he saw no unusual sounds below. Descending the ladder, visibility in the tunnel was akin to a blind man's touch. He closed his eyes and plunged forward with determination.

Time lost meaning in the dark void. Tan Xing didn't know how long he had been climbing.

Eventually, just as he prepared to continue downward, his toes touched solid ground.

Relieved, Tan Xing leaned against his knees, catching his breath. His physical limitations were a constant reminder of his vulnerability. Regaining his composure, he reached behind him, feeling a wall. There was only one way forward.

Unaware of any potential guards ahead, Tan Xing proceeded cautiously in the darkness. After what seemed like an eternity, a faint glow appeared in the distance.

Taking approximately a hundred steps further, the walls began to vibrate slightly, indicating movement above. As he advanced, the vibrations grew stronger, suggesting a significant presence overhead.

Meanwhile, Liang Xigui was conducting a site inspection at a construction project. The cacophony of renovation filled the air, while the scorching sun beat down upon him, drenching his shirt with sweat. Distracted, he watched the mouth of the person in charge move, his thoughts elsewhere.

He wondered if Stars had sent him a message, though he doubted it. That heartless little rascal was likely absorbed in his own pleasures, indifferent to others' well-being.

Yet, despite his thoughts, he harbored a glimmer of hope. Unfortunately, his phone, which hadn't been charged at noon, lay on the car's backseat, desperately replenishing its power.

Liang Xigui endured the endless chatter, his mind wandering far from the present, consumed by thoughts of Tan Xing's face.

Upon returning to the vehicle, the secretary had already pre-cooled the interior to a comfortable temperature, a testament to his exceptional skills.

"President Liang, shall we head back to the hotel?"

"Yes," Liang Xigui replied, his focus now solely on when his phone would turn on.

"Beeep—"

As soon as the phone powered on, two messages from "Stars" popped up. Liang Xigui raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise flickering in his eyes.

He regretted his earlier thoughts about Tan Xing. Clearly, Tan Xing missed him dearly and was considerate.

Eagerly, Liang Xigui opened the messages. A few seconds later, his expression darkened. Before the secretary could marvel at the coolness of the air conditioning, he heard his boss say, "Turn around, head to the airport."

Though puzzled, the secretary obediently followed orders, executing a swift U-turn as the car sped toward the airport.

By the time they arrived, Liang Xigui had booked a flight online, and someone had delivered his identification documents from the hotel.

"There's nothing important left. You can handle the remaining tasks here."

The secretary nodded in agreement, only to watch his boss exit the car hurriedly, striding into the airport while holding his phone to his ear, clearly dealing with a pressing matter.

Could the company be going bankrupt? The secretary checked the local financial news and stock market trends on his phone, finding the company's status stable.

Liang Xigui was unaware of the specifics regarding Tan Xing's situation. Any rash action could jeopardize Tan Xing's safety. He decided to dispatch people to investigate the sanatorium and inquire about any leads from Aunt Song.

The combination of suburban location, strange sanatorium, murder, and secret passages triggered Liang Xigui's concern. Tan Xing's mission seemed perilous.

Frustration simmered within him over Tan Xing's impulsive actions, yet he silently prayed for his safety.

The investigators promptly sent him information. The sanatorium had languished for years, housing only a few elderly residents. However, in recent years, it had been revitalized by a foreign investor planning to offer high-end services. Many individuals, attracted by its reputation, had brought their sick family members for care.

The promotional images revealed nothing suspicious, and all necessary permits for a small private enterprise were in order. But Liang Xigui knew that Tan Xing's claims weren't baseless.

He instructed his subordinates to delve into the background of the foreign investor, seeking comprehensive details. Typically, such surface-level appearances were deceptive; the masterminds operated in the shadows, requiring thorough investigation.

Aunt Song confirmed that Tan Xing had mentioned meeting a friend that afternoon and would return late. From Tan Xing's message, Liang Xigui deduced that the "friend" was actually his mother, rendering Aunt Song's information unhelpful.

Boarding the plane, Liang Xigui glanced at his messages. His subordinates had yet to send the investigation results. Despite his anxiety, he could only wait patiently.

A far-fetched yet plausible theory took root in his mind. He considered Dan Er's group's recent activities in the suburbs. Could there be a connection between them?

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My dear friends, as the title suggests, this book has finally been released!

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PS:

At this point in Liang Xigui and Tan Xing's story, you might find it a bit serious, a stark contrast to the previous warm and sweet daily life vignettes. I assure you, this is merely an interlude, and sweetness will prevail in the chapters ahead.

In crafting this segment, I aimed to showcase the depth of Tan Xing's character. His innocence and charm are not his only facets; he was once a noble prince and a remarkable general. He's no delicate canary; people adore him because he's exceptional in his own right.

Simultaneously, I wanted to highlight the emotional intensity of Liang Xigui. As a domineering CEO, he isn't always composed or in control; he's capable of passionate love and unwavering commitment. Beneath the calm waters lies a heart fiercely devoted to his beloved.

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