I, on the Starry Sky Railway, change everything

"They have quite a fighting spirit."

"Come with me, I'll show you the boundary anchoring system in the space station."

Just as Ji Zi was about to take a step, she suddenly realized that Hua Yi had drunk all the coffee in his cup without her noticing.

She raised an eyebrow, feeling an urge to pour herself another glass.

Wait, when did I become so childish? How could I maliciously offer someone a refill of coffee just because we were having a pleasant conversation? That's hardly a way of returning a favor.

Before he could even hesitate, Himeko had already picked up the coffee pot to pour coffee for Hua Yi, and the great hero who had vanquished the inferior demons was not defeated by a mere cup of bitter coffee, and cooperatively picked up the cup.

"..."

The two looked at each other for a long time.

"Can you still drink it?"

"It's just a little bitterness, nothing to be afraid of."

If it were still during the Legion's raid, Hua Yi, wielding his Flaming Sword, gazing at the sky full of inferior demons with heroic spirit, and declaring, "Though there be ten thousand vain soldiers, I will go," would surely be incredibly cool.

But now that he's holding a coffee cup and making such grand pronouncements, Himeko doesn't know whether she should smile or not.

"You said it yourself~"

The red-haired beauty poured only six-tenths full of coffee, knowing that her skills didn't suit the general public's taste.

Now that Hua Yi is acting so bravely, wouldn't it seem petty of her not to fall more?

This time it's nine-tenths full!

Actually, it could be filled to a maximum of ten-tenths full, but Himeko didn't forget that she was going to the boundary anchorage location next. When walking, carrying a full cup, the liquid would inevitably spill out, so she thoughtfully only poured it to nine-tenths full.

Hua Yi lowered his head, examining the dark, highly concentrated coffee as if gazing into an abyss.

He tentatively swirled the glass and found that Ms. Himeko was still being conservative.

There's no need to worry about liquid splashing with this semi-solid, thick beverage. Even if it's filled to 100% or 110%, adding a small peak to the surface shouldn't be a problem at all.

"What, you regret it?"

"No, it's just that you don't understand the quality of the coffee you brew."

"Yes, yes, I don't know."

Himeko's lips finally curved into a beautiful smile.

"So, after becoming a coffee connoisseur, can you continue to tell me about the quality differences between different coffees? I have plenty of coffee beans in my suitcase, and even more in the train. You could drink them like water."

"For most people, excessive coffee consumption may cause symptoms such as insomnia, stomach discomfort, and rapid heartbeat. Caffeine can also stimulate the central nervous system. However, I am not an ordinary person. If I can help Estella, Hoshino, and March 7th suffer less in the future, I will do my best."

"They really are selfless; I must tell them that truthfully, little one."

Chapter 95 The Key to Enlightenment Stolen

Two dark blue crystals were encased within a suspended golden ring. The irregular crystals in the middle emitted a light mixed with strange fluctuations after Himeko infused them with [Exploration] energy.

The boundary anchor in its operational state was fully presented before Hua Yi. He stared intently, his fingertips caressing this destiny product, which was even more special than the Key of Enlightenment. Focusing on the flow of imaginary numbers that transcended phenomena, he simulated it in his mind, attempting to imitate and explore the anchor point.

Although Ji Zi, unlike the Black Tower, clearly knew that Hua Yi could invoke the power of destiny in a way different from that of the Travelers, and that there was more than one destiny, she did not disturb him when she saw him concentrating on his work and waited patiently by his side.

The navigator spoke softly only after he withdrew his hand from the boundary anchor.

"As the train explores the universe, it can accumulate the energy needed for anchoring in the boundary. In addition, the Black Tower Space Station has smooth routes to the outside world, so once you board the train, you can be teleported back at any time."

It's true that you can teleport at any time, but it takes time to accumulate enough energy to cover the energy loss of a round trip, so it's impossible to use it frequently in a short period of time.

Furthermore, if the area where the train is located is invaded by the Cancer of All Worlds, the conditions for teleportation will also be unavailable.

Hua Yi clearly judged the application scenarios of boundary anchoring and did not think too optimistically.

All he needs to do is discover problems and then solve them. As long as he can deeply understand [exploration], the ripples stirred up by his destiny will be enough to meet his energy needs. As for how to use the boundary anchor in the place where the cancer of all worlds is rampant—of course, it is to seal the riotous star core.

The idea of ​​letting the star contain more star cores was just a joke. Hua Yi wouldn't leave the problem to the girl beside him and put her in uncertain danger.

"The Star Train should have its own method for sealing the star core, right?"

"Yes. In fact, the train's internal operating mode is similar to that of a space station. During their exploration of the universe, the nameless passengers often obtain valuable information and intelligence, which, after being organized and summarized, become the train's think tank. Currently, Danheng is responsible for its maintenance."

The Starry Sky Train consists of multiple carriages, including a lobby, dormitories, storage rooms, and a power generation room, forming a unified whole. Unnamed passengers who are approved by the train conductor can choose their own accommodation.

The pioneering star god Akivili fell, and the train crashed in Himeko's hometown, disappearing for many years. The number of nameless passengers was limited, so even one person could occupy a whole train car without any problem.

"Dan Heng is aloof, low-key, and taciturn. He is both a think tank maintenance worker and a guard on the train. I asked him to stay on the train to guard against possible attacks from the legion and to protect the train conductor."

"Now that things have come to a close, Dan Heng still shows no sign of getting out of the car."

"So you can guess what kind of personality he has... How should I put it, I feel that Danheng is carrying some heavy burdens, but he doesn't want to ask questions without permission. Just like girls whisper secrets to each other, boys should be able to become close friends more easily. As a researcher, you are also outstanding, so perhaps you can get along with Danheng, who maintains the think tank."

"I got it."

"This is not a transaction or a mission. Many lost and nameless travelers often find the answers on their journeys. As for how to proceed, that is up to you."

Hua Yi knew that Dan Heng needed far more than just an answer.

Just as Himeko was about to say something more, a sudden alarm that blared throughout the space station made her expression change.

"Has the antimatter legion launched a second attack?!"

"No, this is not a notice requiring everyone to evacuate."

The subsequent electronic voice confirmed Hua Yi's words.

"An emergency has occurred at the space station. All access routes to and from the space station are temporarily closed. Passengers who have recently recovered from their injuries and are preparing to return home on interstellar ships are kindly requested to wait patiently. In addition, interstellar peace company ships are also prohibited from leaving port. To reiterate, no one from interstellar peace company is allowed to leave before the blockade is lifted. Company personnel must understand and cooperate!"

The sound from the loudspeaker was not distorted; Hua Yi could tell that it was the voice of an elder from the Guangyuan Secret Scrolls Department.

He tapped a few times on his smart device to initiate a remote communication and spoke in a deep voice.

"What happened?"

"We're sorry...we're very sorry."

The headset was in chaos; more than one person was speaking. It seemed that the top executives from the five departments had gathered together, and several senior scholars were apologizing with trembling voices, their voices filled with remorse.

"[The Key to Enlightenment] is missing..."

Many elderly researchers beat their chests in frustration, tears streaming down their faces.

They were just ordinary people who had been rescued by a hero during a legion attack. Lacking martial prowess, they knew that Hua Yi was fighting the demons alone, but they couldn't help him in any way.

Now that the destructive force of [Destruction] has dissipated and the space station has finally returned to normal, the warriors who protected everyone with their flaming swords have transformed into pioneers of wisdom, selflessly sharing the optimized Intellectual Bud Ribbon with the research department, offering a product of destiny that is even more advanced than the Key of Inspiration for everyone to study—

Now is the time for everyone to showcase their scientific research capabilities while completing post-disaster reconstruction work. Renowned experts from different academic fields are eager to make a name for themselves and prove to the heroes that they are not useless.

They aim to develop the intellectual property of the "Buds of Wisdom," create greater academic and economic value, leverage their talents, and present the fruits of their wisdom as a gift to the heroes.

That is both proof of research ability and a manifestation of gratitude.

As a result, they lost the key to enlightenment.

How shameful! How shameful!

If they hadn't been driven by an even stronger emotion of finding their lost items, with shame and anger surging through their chests, these experts and scholars would probably have fainted from rage.

"You just handed another Key of Enlightenment to the company. When the starship left the space station, only six systems away, the Key of Enlightenment in our laboratory was mysteriously stolen. Although it is unlikely that the company, given its size, would abandon its reputation for a critical product, we cannot rule out the possibility of individual actions by company employees. Perhaps some people have realized the value of the Key of Enlightenment and have started to resort to any means necessary."

"There's no need to make such a fuss. I can make another one anytime."

"But--"

"Leave this to me. You all calm down. Surely no one is getting so angry before their injuries have even healed? Go back to the medical department and rest."

"...Okay, I'm really sorry."

Chapter 96 Doctor of Truth

The older people get, the more stubborn they tend to become. Moreover, the elderly people on the space station are all academic experts, often representing authorities in their fields. Now that thieves have come knocking on their door, and the stolen items are treasures more precious than many rare objects, how can they possibly remain calm?

Hua Yi clearly advised these people not to get angry, that those who needed to rest should rest, and those who needed to do research should do research. With his current prestige, this was naturally not a problem. However, if the culprit could not be found, even if another key to enlightenment was created, the experts and scholars' frustration would not dissipate.

Including the final "I'm sorry," the elderly people weren't apologizing for running out of the medical department before their injuries had healed, but rather expressing their guilt for not being able to properly safeguard the Key of Enlightenment.

"Miss Himeko, please stay with me for now."

"Aren't you going to question me? With the Key to Enlightenment stolen, and both the train and the company being outsiders, it will be difficult for them to clear their names."

“No need. If the train crew is really interested in the products of the [Intellectual] Destiny, I can give you one.”

Hua Yi smiled gently and handed the empty coffee cup back to the red-haired beauty.

"Thank you for the 15 coffees."

He turned and left, his steps not appearing hurried.

As it should be.

After all, even the Legion's attack hadn't made this warrior panic.

Himeko watched Hua Yi's figure disappear from sight. After thinking for a moment, she sent a message to Xiao Sanyue, telling her not to wander around the space station, so as not to affect the various departments' search for lost items.

The defense department has already begun operations. Hua Yi has ordered the injured department leaders to return to the medical department to recuperate. That means there are still a considerable number of people who have been protected by heroes and are unharmed.

Generally speaking, the Black Tower Space Station and the Interstellar Peace Corporation have a cooperative relationship. Even if there are minor frictions or misunderstandings, they will not directly show a confrontational attitude.

But what's being stolen now is the Key of Enlightenment, the culmination of Lord Hua Yi's countless hours of research. This isn't just about eyeing the space station's assets; it's practically a provocation against everyone's hero, a slap in the face to everyone.

The defense officer, who was usually in charge of security but was unable to fight alongside Hua Yi during the legion's attack due to the vast difference in strength, now felt his face burning with embarrassment, and his temper became volatile. He even lost patience with the technical consultant recently sent by the company.

The main problem is that this technical advisor, ostensibly there to assist with the post-disaster reconstruction of the space station, actually did not handle any related work. He was also quite rude in his words and actions, and was always trying to lecture people.

"Mr. Ladio, why are you wearing a plaster cast on your head? Are you hiding something?!"

"First, by wearing a hood to block out my five senses, I can think without being disturbed; second, I can't stand idiots, and you probably don't want to see me either."

The man, whose face was covered by a strange plaster head sculpture, spoke in a methodical and calm tone, yet his words were full of aggression, instantly classifying the entire defense team as idiots.

"Also, please call me Doctor Truth. You are all experiencing symptoms of dullness in your minds and need treatment."

"Lord Hua Yi's hard work has vanished without a trace, and the company is the prime suspect. How dare you spout nonsense here!"

“Anger will cloud your judgment, and blindness will create folly. I am merely teaching you to calm down.”

The defense officer was furious and about to speak again when the captain stopped him.

"Don't make a fuss! Lord Hua Yi has decided to handle this matter personally, and we cannot make any unnecessary moves."

"..."

The name of the hero acted like a tranquilizer, instantly calming the increasingly agitated staff member down and making him stand ramrod straight.

The thought of being examined closely by Lord Hua Yi filled him with a sense of sacred mission, making him appear as a warrior ready to step onto the battlefield at any moment, fearless even in the face of thousands of inferior demons. His previous intense emotions were nowhere to be seen.

That name was more useful than all the words he had just spoken.

Dr. Ladio confirmed this and sat quietly in what was ostensibly a conference room, but in reality, it had been surrounded by the defense department and turned into a prison cell, no longer allowing him to leave at will.

No sound came from the plaster head sculpture. The defense team silently guarded the hatch until the approaching footsteps broke the silence, at which point the latter's face showed visible excitement.

"Lord Huayi!"

"Hello, please return to your original work positions. Don't stand here. If distinguished guests of Interstellar Peace Corporation are restricted in their freedom at the Black Tower Space Station, it will be a major diplomatic incident."

"Yes, please be careful."

The defense officers, who had been so aggressive when questioning Dr. Truth, had all become loyal subordinates who obeyed his every word and followed orders without question, and immediately withdrew.

The main reason was that they trusted Hua Yi's abilities and had already confirmed that the company's technical consultant was not carrying any dangerous items; otherwise, he would have been waiting outside the meeting room to prevent the hero from being ambushed by villains.

Sitting face to face with Dr. Zhenli, and seeing his plaster cast on his head, Hua Yi smiled and poured two glasses of water.

"Mr. Veritaslatio of the Academy of Liberal Arts, I have long admired your name."

"You know me? That saves me the trouble of introducing myself. I was invited by the Interstellar Peace Corporation to observe firsthand how the members of the [Great Wisdom Club] squander the company's assets. Six system hours ago, I happened to see the Enlightenment Key that you gave to the company. Now that the key in the space station has been stolen, the timing is indeed too perfect."

Dr. Truth had specifically learned about Hua Yi's deeds and knew that he had saved the space station from the clutches of the antimatter legion. In addition, the other party was so polite and his tone did not have the same aggressiveness he had when talking to the defense department.

"Given the long-standing animosity between the Erudite Society and the Great Wisdom Club, my theft of the Key to Enlightenment seems like a plausible speculation. So, what do you plan to do now, Hua Yi?"

"Of course I have no doubt about the character of the leader of the Erudite Society, and from the very beginning I have never thought that Mr. Ladio was a suspect."