Chapter 24

Chapter 24

"Li Wei, we meet again."

With a friendly smile, Philo, whose in-game nickname was "Berserker," greeted the green-haired female before him, showing none of the ferocious intent from the previous video where he had threatened to report this game.

To be honest, seeing him like this eased the green-haired female's somewhat heavy mood.

This time, the two didn’t meet at the spawn point, as it was still crowded with female insects lying in wait. Standing on the street in front of the mission hall, both clad in gear only a whale or a top-tier player would possess, they exchanged glances and shared a friendly smile.

Perfect. Today’s session shouldn’t be too difficult.

"Your Highness, I’ve prepared some equipment suitable for the beginner phase. Please see if you like them."

Using a private chat to avoid being overheard by others, Li Wei instinctively addressed the male insect with a respectful title rather than his nickname.

Hovering before the female insect was a pile of gear. While Philo had already purchased some of it, many were items he hadn’t seen in shops.

Though these were only low-tier purple equipment for beginners, their absence from shops suggested they were rare drops the female insect had farmed herself.

Glancing at them, Philo—who, knowing his own poor skills, had also logged in early to buy high-tier gear as gifts—chuckled and said cheerfully,

"What a coincidence. I also prepared a few things. Consider them... a welcome gift from me."

Or, more accurately, an advance apology.

Though he knew the female insect likely wouldn’t dare criticize him even if his gameplay was terrible, Philo still had some decency and wouldn’t push it that far.

Since his skills wouldn’t improve overnight, the least he could do was offer some gear as consolation.

With that, a dazzling array of gold-glowing items materialized before the male insect. For a moment, both their eyes were slightly blinded by the bright glow of the gear.

But unlike his earlier calm expression, the female insect’s face stiffened inexplicably at the sight of Philo’s high-tier offerings.

As everyone knew, equipment and items were level-locked.

Since Philo was still below level 20, Li Wei had thoughtfully prepared only beginner-friendly gear, even though the male insect could afford anything.

In contrast, Li Wei’s account was high-level, meaning the gear he needed... Well, just the visual effects of Philo’s items outshone Li Wei’s offerings by a mile.

Silence. The female insect was deathly silent.

Not giving him a chance to refuse, Philo cheerfully sent over the pile of items. Of course, he also accepted Li Wei’s gifts, even politely equipping one of the armor pieces immediately.

After this exchange, figuring the female insect might feel less tense around him now, Philo added with a smile,

"By the way, just call me by my nickname, no need for ‘Your Highness.’ If ‘Berserker’ feels too generic, ‘Berserk’ works too."

Indeed, Philo had single-handedly propelled the nickname "Berserker" to the top of the game’s most overused names list. Even though he was still a noob stuck in the beginner village in *Green Algae*, his influence had already spread far and wide.

Nodding, the female insect had no room left to argue.

Not wasting time, Li Wei—now weighed down by the guilt of receiving far more valuable gifts—could only strive to provide the male insect with the best gaming experience possible.

Unlike last time, when Philo had teleported straight to the hunting grounds, today Li Wei led him on foot, despite also planning to help him grind enough EXP to leave the beginner village.

This fully immersive holographic game simulated real-world sensations flawlessly. Star beasts looked lifelike, and players experienced everything almost identically to reality.

In short, even in-game, walking too far would tire you out, prolonged sun exposure would make you thirsty, and falling sick would feel awful.

Though these sensations could be adjusted or muted by lowering sensory thresholds, doing so would diminish the experience. So, aside from reducing pain sensitivity, Philo had left all other settings untouched.

Now, walking under the scorching sun toward the hunting grounds, Philo checked the in-game map’s distance and estimated walking time. Despite having resolved to follow the pro’s guidance, he couldn’t help but wonder about the female insect’s reasoning.

Soon, however, Li Wei demonstrated another fun aspect of the game—no explanation needed.

"Here’s a hidden item. Just break the energy-concealing stone around it to reveal it. Aim for the lower third of the stone, and don’t use too much force."

"Dig about three meters down from that giant engraved rock, place an energy converter, and a surprise item should pop out."

"This is a hidden NPC. Among the items I gave you is the medicinal solvent he needs. Trade it for beginner villager favor and EXP."

Unlike the bustling hunting grounds outside the beginner village, the path between the village market and the hunting grounds was dotted with forests, quarries, and lakes—resource-gathering zones for wood, stone, and water.

Most players here were also doing beginner quests, though the crowd was noticeably sparser than in the hunting grounds. Still, with limited resource nodes, the better spots were relatively crowded.

Yet, following Li Wei, Philo experienced the joy of having an insider’s advantage.

While others only gathered a few bricks for house repairs, Philo—following Li Wei’s instructions—made a free beginner item appear.

It was like playing *Super Mario* with a walkthrough. The journey from the market to the hunting grounds felt less like a hike and more like a treasure hunt. Holding yet another medicinal herb he’d dug up, Philo grinned, eyebrows raised.

Though the total loot so far wouldn’t even cover the cost of one high-tier gear, the thrill of discovery... was absolutely worth it.

Noticing the envious glances from other players, the male insect raised his chin, basking in the satisfaction.

As for Li Wei, seeing the smile on Philo’s face, the female insect’s expression softened unconsciously.

Though the first part hadn’t gone perfectly, at least the second was on track.

Relieved that Philo seemed to enjoy the treasure-hunting process, the green-haired female confidently led him toward the hunting grounds along the planned route.

Watching the female insect ahead, Philo stashed his latest find, convinced that his expensive gifts had been a wise investment.

So many hidden treasures—some buried under remote boulders at cliff edges—yet none escaped Li Wei’s notice. The female insect truly lived up to her reputation as a top player.

Misunderstandings happen.

Taking breaks along the way, Li Wei—a game designer who knew most hidden item triggers—guided Philo through the joys of exploration, his "expert" aura growing brighter by the minute. Eventually, they reached the outskirts of the star beast territory.

Even from a distance, a familiar roar echoed toward them.

Hmm... Today’s hunting grounds seemed even more crowded than yesterday. A quick scan revealed that most players were subfemales.

Recalling how a certain forum thread had ended, Li Wei paused briefly before pretending ignorance and turning to the suddenly quieter male insect behind him.

"Your—Berserk, how about we head to Zone A? That’s where the star beasts are densest, and the EXP gain is fastest."

Pointing toward the source of the loudest roars, the female insect made his polite suggestion.

Having paid no attention to which zone he’d entered last time, Philo followed Li Wei’s finger. Though his expression stiffened slightly, he agreed.

With so many players around this time, it shouldn’t be a problem.

Gazing at his heavily invested "expert," the male insect felt unusually bold today.

But—

"You won’t be fighting?"

"Yeah, all the star beasts in the beginner zone can only be attacked by players below level 20. High-level players' attack skills are completely ineffective here."

After explaining, noticing the sudden gloom in His Highness Philo's eyes, the green-haired female quickly added.

"However, I can guide Your Highness on the timing and method of attack. Even if an accident does occur, I can get you out of the hunting zone fast."

Forgetting the proper address again, the female offered a way out that the male could somewhat accept.

It must be said, Fei Luo, who could still smell the gross stench of the Giant Cave Beast's saliva from yesterday's escape, chilled out a little upon hearing Levi's last words.

Being able to flee was acceptable—as long as he didn't end up in the beast's belly.

"Then let's go."

Popping out his light sword, the male's face was filled with determination.

Watching the male, who chose not to use firearms and instead wielded an energy blade made for close fights, the female kept her mouth shut and quietly followed.

A skilled female knows when to keep quiet.

Thus, the two insects advanced one after another into the danger zone of the beginner area, where star beasts were most densely concentrated.

Indeed, Levi's description of Zone A was accurate—it was undeniably the area with the highest number of star beasts. At the very least, Fei Luo, who had wandered for a while yesterday before encountering a single Giant Cave Beast, now ran into an entire group shortly after entering.

Oh great, isn't this delightful? A group of adorable creatures coming at you, mouths wide open in what could be mistaken for grins.

"Holy shit!"

Without hesitation, the male turned and took off running.

Admittedly, while Fei Luo might not be proficient with other equipment, he had really got the hang of his gravity boots.

"Your Highness!"

"Your Highness!"

"Your Highness, don't run. Just stand still and fire the Armmounted Energy Gun at the star beasts."

"Dude, you kidding me? Look at the speed of those things behind me! If I stop now, I’ll be dead!"

"The Armmounted Energy Gun is fully charged. Firing takes only three seconds. In that time, the closest star beast will still be a meter away from you—enough room."

"A meter?! You call that enough?! Bro, how about you take me twenty meters away first, then I’ll stop?"

"Giant Cave Beasts have pretty tough defenses among F-level star beasts. Players under level 20 must be within two meters to kill them in one shot with the Armmounted Energy Gun. For starting-level players, the distance gotta get even closer."

"What? Then I—"

"Your Highness, let me guide you through it once."

Skrrrt!

The sound of rapidly moving boots came to an abrupt halt, friction sending gravel flying.

Extending a hand, the two already close palms met—the darker-skinned one gripping the other's wrist.

The female, clad in high-grade combat gear, stood firm, arm muscles tensing slightly. In moments, the male, who had been instinctively lunging forward, was pulled back and turned around.

Without delay—especially as the sharp fangs of the nearest Giant Cave Beast were practically in their faces—the female grasped the male's arm with one hand while bracing his retreating shoulder with the other, pinning him in position. Levi's voice carried the calm, matter-of-fact tone typical of his kind.

"Your Highness."

"You may fire now."

...

The howling wind, the tremors underfoot, the rustling branches, and the roars of star beasts—all the chaotic noise seemed to fade as the beasts drew nearer.

Staring at the monster right in their faces, legs still weak and heart pounding, Fei Luo's brain short-circuited for a split second.

The female's voice reached his ears. Almost instinctively, the male just did as told.

And then—

"Roar..."

Without pause, after firing the first shot, the male—with his built frame—hardly felt the kickback. Instead, he instinctively raised the gun again, aiming at another beast behind the fallen one.

One, another, and yet another.

The Armmounted Energy Gun, the top starter weapon money could buy, might not match the firepower of high-level gear, but its energy efficiency was outstanding.

At first, Fei Luo needed the female to steady his arm. But even after she let go, he held his ground, completing every kill on his own.

This feeling...

"I feel like I can do this again!"

Surveying the fallen star beasts, he turned to meet the female's ever-calm gaze, his own eyes lit up with confidence and eagerness.

His simulated avatar's pupils were black, not his natural purple. Now, those black eyes shone like black pearls straight from the ocean—bright, dazzling, yet devoid of any piercing sharpness.

Locking eyes, the female paused for a beat.

Seeing the joy in the male's gaze, the hand that had just released his arm unconsciously clenched again. Lowering his gaze, Levi bit his lip.

It seemed this Highness wouldn't be reporting him.

"Order whatever you want today—my treat!"

The game's restaurant, also the only fancy restaurant in the beginner village.

Having totally crushed his beginner quests, Fei Luo insisted on treating Levi to a meal after settling his rewards at the quest center, considering it a midnight snack.

By now, in the male's eyes, the green-haired female was no longer just a gaming expert but also a super patient partner.

Just for helping him get over being scared of star beasts—and not laughing at him for it—Fei Luo decided to befriend her.

With that, he handed over the wooden menu on the table while setting up their tableware.

Watching his effortlessly natural gestures, the usually composed female found herself frozen, holding the menu without flipping it.

Lately, His Highness Fei Luo of the Capital Star had become quite the sensation.

The mere presence of a stranded male on a barren planet was enough to captivate the entire insect race. And since his appearance at the starport, countless candid photos of him had gone viral across the Alliance.

Most insects knew only of his famous family, hot looks, and a personality that seemed to wasn't like other guys.

As an insect from the capital planet's noble circles, Li Wei knew a bit more.

First, regarding the Tulas Family—though indeed prestigious—with General Zhousha advancing in years and only one of the two Female Insects beneath him being an A-Class Female Insect, the family had long been facing threats from peer families before His Highness Philo's return.

However, with the return of His Highness Philo and the preliminary assessment of his mental energy level, the Tulas Family has clearly rebounded in standing and is unlikely to face a decline in influence for decades to come.

Beyond that, the impact this AClass Male Insect has made on the capital planet seems even more extensive.

Though he didn’t attend the Tulas Family’s recent banquet, Li Wei had heard some things.

It was said that His Highness was strikingly attractive, though opinions varied on exactly what type of handsome he was. Having never seen him in person, Li Wei couldn’t confirm the rumors.

He’d also heard that His Highness had refined taste, especially in fashion—so much so that even the A-Class Male Insect from Qiankesilan had reportedly been trying to get his contact information lately.

Beyond that, Li Wei had heard that His Highness was skilled in music, had low alcohol tolerance… and had a changeable temperament.

Some said he was unconstrained and daring, others that he was cold and aloof, while still others claimed he was easygoing and frequently smiling.

Could one insect really have so many personalities?

His gaze fell on the utensils Philo had set out for him, and Li Wei tightened his grip on the menu.

Perhaps some rumors weren’t entirely baseless.

For instance, this His Highness was indeed very easygoing and frequently smiling.

"Hey, why haven’t you ordered yet? What’s on your mind?"

Seeing the Female Insect who appeared distracted, the male insect waved a hand, recapturing his focus.

"Don’t tell me you’re embarrassed about me treating you. Seriously, it’s fine—I really want to thank you properly today. Don’t worry about saving me money; you know we male insects get plenty of allowance."

In the private chat channel, where no other insects could overhear, Philo lightly stated his financial ease. Then, eyeing the menu in Li Wei’s hands, he couldn’t help but remark,

"Since coming to the capital planet, I haven’t eaten out yet. Even at home, most orders are sent to the kitchen via comms. I didn’t expect a full immersion game to still use such an old-fashioned menu. Are you sure this is the best restaurant in the newbie zone?"

Unlike the other high-tech eateries around, this upscale restaurant had a retro aesthetic—simple decor, unpretentious tableware.

If not for Li Wei’s assurance that the virtual food here was unique, Philo might’ve gone to the starship-shaped eatery across the street instead.

"This wooden menu is a reproduction modeled after newly discovered ancient artifacts. With the Alliance’s economic prosperity, interest in interstellar historical relics has surged. This place is famous for its retro style."

His explanation was detailed, even slipping in some economic and historical context. Unsurprising, given that the Female Insect was a game architect—his way of speaking was unlike any other Female Insect Philo had met.

"You know so much—did you design this place? Are you into studying insect history?"

"Yes. Though many consider history outdated, observing its developmental patterns…"

This was the first time Li Wei had sat down and spoken so relaxedly with a male insect.

Hard to describe how he felt—or rather, watching the male insect across from him, who didn’t completely understand his topic but listened attentively anyway.

Lowering his gaze, Li Wei unconsciously slowed his speech.

Unaware of the subtle shift, Philo simply treated this as an after-game meetup with a friend, listening with interest and asking occasional questions.

Stripped of appearances and status in the game world, their exchange was unforced and comfortable.

A sumptuous virtual meal—savored but unsatisfying, guilt-free—concluded pleasantly in this harmonious atmosphere.

After setting a time to play together the next day, Philo waved and finally logged off.

Removing his helmet, he stretched his neck inside the gaming simulation pods. Though the game was relaxing, full-dive sessions were draining. Despite dinner earlier and the virtual feast, he felt hungry again.

Truly, no matter how good VR food tasted, real sustenance was irreplaceable.

Rubbing his stomach, the developing young Male Insect headed downstairs to seek out the elderly butler for snacks.

"Butler! Head Chef! I’m starving! Feed me!"

"Haha, Your Highness, slow down—don’t trip!"

The quiet Tulas mansion instantly came alive as the male insect flung open his bedroom door.

Attendants' expressions lit up with involuntary smiles, affectionate looks trailing him.

But while Philo was relaxed and cheerful, Li Wei, who’d just logged off, had barely removed his helmet when a dense metallic orb came flying at him.

*Thud.*

Dodging instinctively, the sphere smashed into the desk beside the gaming simulation pod.

The intruder—pretending he hadn't almost struck another or damaged the game artifact replica—swung his legs from the chair opposite, grinning.

"Oops, my aim’s off. Your head okay?"

"Bernice."

Looking up at the uninvited male insect, the Female Insect—so at ease moments ago—now had eyes as cold as a frozen lake.

"It’s me. What, not happy to see me?"

Still lounging in Li Wei’s specially crafted designer chair, the gray-haired A-Class Male Insect propped a foot up, smirk widening at the other’s expression.

"So, designer, how much’ve you earned lately? I want a new aeroflyer."

Hopping down—shorter but far more arrogant—his grin turned vicious.

"Silent? Not willing?"

"Too bad. You and your useless sire are only good for making money to please me and Father. What else are you even for?"

Jeering at the unresponsive Female Insect, the troublemaker—fresh from interstellar travel—finally sauntered out, satisfied by the worsening glare.

Silence reclaimed the room.

Glancing at the broken algal-system game model, Li Wei’s expression remained calm—but his grip on the helmet had long gone bone-white.

Author’s Note:

Noticed your curiosity about Philo’s period of depression. It’s the result of numerous circumstances, with clues previously planted. Developments hastening its onset will soon emerge.