Chapter 135: A Heart Free of Dust! - It’s the Cyber Age—Still Playing a Traditional Villain?

Chapter 135: A Heart Free of Dust! Xu Shi’s answer was both unexpected and yet perfectly logical. "It doesn’t matter if Long Tian Ding is sincere or not; if he really sets up schools and these enterprises in the Crime City, it would indeed be a beneficial thing for Night’s Sin City." He sincerely explained, "What’s the saying? The world of martial artists isn’t just about fighting and killing; it's also about human interactions and social nuances?" Perhaps this saying wasn’t entirely fitting here, but the principle behind it stood. Crime City and Night City are on equal footing in terms of territory, yet when it comes to various statistics, the differences are vast — the education rate is just one facet. Beyond that, there's life expectancy, environmental issues, and the much-debated GDP. It’s not just a minor gap; it’s a world apart. This vast difference is intrinsically linked to the very model of Crime City itself. Influenced by gang culture, most people in Crime City, looking to survive, find themselves with little choice but to join a gang. Long-standing animosity with Night City has subtly contributed to a disdain among Crime City’s people for alternative paths. It’s reminiscent of that movie line: "Mom, I want to study hard and go to college." "Great, son, recruit your classmates into our gang in college!" Essentially, it's a distorted perspective. Xu Shi doesn’t deny that "existence is reasonable." The silent rule among Night City’s bosses to employ gang members for dirty work is well known—he himself had borrowed Ding Jun’s men to deal with He Jiayuan... Yet ultimately, if all eleven districts of Crime City continue on this path, they will forever remain a hidden threat. The deeply rooted vices — gambling, drugs, and particularly the so-called “vice” of trafficking and exploiting innocent people — produce toxic fallout with consequences that are clear as day. Take Lin Yue’s fate, for instance; who wishes for their loved ones to vanish suddenly, only to be found dead, mutilated and abused? The same applies to Gu Yi — though her experiences might not be as harrowing as the young assassin’s, they still highlight the underlying issues. Benefits are reaped solely by those high up in the gangs, whereas the common people suffer hardship and distress. This toxic culture inevitably affects Night City; no one can claim immunity... if Crime City rots a little, Night City rots a lot. After all, demand fuels the market — and who provides the demand? Isn’t it the people of Night City... Especially with the new addition of the "Forgotten Ones," any group might lack top-tier talents, but there's never a shortage of trash. Long Tian Ding’s indiscriminate expansion, taking in everyone's cast-offs, threatens to sink Crime City deeper into chaos. Xu Shi absolutely doesn’t want to see that outcome. Even without any altruistic motives, a place as vast and potent as Crime City, to be only utilized to this extent, isn’t that just squandering resources? Never mind if Long Tian Ding contacts him or not; isn’t he also seeking to stabilize the situation? Moreover, he knows full well the old man shares this inclination. If he has such thoughts, his rival likely harbors even purer intentions... Indeed, wasn't the previous conflict between the "Feather Pen" and "Dragon City" due to this? When an adversary extends an olive branch, to not seize it would be sheer folly. Truth be told, judging by grandpa’s actions, he’s a bona fide upright character... Xu Shi silently admired from within. Realizing this, Wen Sheng Kui’s question wasn’t really seeking his opinion but rather aiming to give him a heads-up, a chance to prepare. Still, he couldn’t just casually respond; who dare say the old man isn’t testing the waters? No one should be that naive. "...You’re quite witty with your words, young man." As expected, after a brief pause, Wen Sheng Kui earnestly nodded, approval evident on his face, clearly satisfied with his grandson’s response. In his heart, he felt reluctance to squander such an opportunity. The chaos in Crime City was indeed a thorn in his side, a genuine concern...so Xu Shi’s response didn’t alter his decision. He asked further, "If I really reconcile with Long Tian Ding, aren’t you worried?" "What’s there to worry about?" Xu Shi answered with ease, "Whether it’s beneficial or not, the old saying goes there are no perpetual allies, only perpetual interests. If Long Tian Ding doesn’t seek you out, he’ll find someone else. From this perspective, I should thank you for at least informing me." It’s true. The trickery among the six major conglomerates never ceases. One day they can enjoy jovial conversations, the next day, stab you in the back. Ultimately, it boils down to which alliances yield greater benefits. For example, with the "Serpent Ring" in ascendancy, everyone naturally revolves around Xu Shi. But if someone else introduced something more advantageous, it would be a completely different scenario. And his gratitude towards grandpa was genuine; whether or not you realize it, being informed mattered. Even going as far as saying, even if you were left in the dark, you couldn’t complain; not everyone is as forthright as Wen Sheng Kui. It's certainty admirable to prepare you. This shift indicated the warming bond between grandfather and grandson following their previous reconciliation. Wen Sheng Kui, hearing this, felt even more impressed. Previous incidents had already changed his perception significantly, and today, when discussing such a thorny issue, Xu Shi’s confidence and broad perspective left a deep impression on him. Moreover, Xu Shi’s words hinted at another layer of meaning—there are no perpetual allies. It suggests whether reconciling or not with Long Tian Ding, it has little impact on Xu Shi’s stance. When the time comes, turn against him if necessary; no need to spare unnecessary courtesy... Ah, what a fine grandson! He certainly has the Wen family bloodline. Wen Sheng Kui truly appreciated his grandson's ruthless and pragmatic nature. Though he outwardly seemed relaxed, in reality, nothing escaped his considerations. There was no worry about him making rash decisions — this young man surely has plans against Long Tian Ding... Yet, admiration aside, Wen Sheng Kui feigned irritation, "No perpetual allies... So perhaps one day, because of certain circumstances, you might conspire against your old grandpa with others?" "We aren’t allies." Xu Shi said seriously, "We’re family." ... "...Who said you are my family!" Wen Sheng Kui paused, unable to hide his smile despite the denial, "Stop with the sweet talk, old man isn’t buying it." "Right, right, grandpa’s teachings are absolutely right." Xu Shi fawned obsequiously, "I have some connections in Crime City, should you and ‘Dragon City’ collaborate, I can provide assistance." "You offering your aid?" Grandpa glanced at him, "But since you’re so earnest... I’ll reluctantly accept." Xu Shi internally burst into laughter. While the tsundere setting might have faded with time, a tsundere old man certainly hasn’t. At his age, he’s understandably stuck in older ways. Gu Yi quietly listened on the side, outwardly composed yet internally bewildered. She found their conversation interesting, though understanding its depth was a different matter. How many twists and turns were in their words? Regardless, she couldn’t keep up with their pace. So, why bring me here, Xu you jerk? Wouldn’t it be better to spend this time playing games and completing quests? All she could do was listen silently, knowing that remaining speechless was a safe bet, right? She occasionally sipped her tea, appreciating its taste. What was it? Oh, tea...sip again... Yet inevitably, the grandfather-grandson banter shifted the focus onto her. "It seems your manager Gu is rather introverted?" Wen Sheng Kui scrutinized the young woman sipping tea mechanically, suspicion tinting his expression. His perception wasn’t usually wrong; he guessed this young lady isn’t one to stay within her comfort zone normally. Why so reserved? The old man was blissfully unaware of his imposing aura. "She's usually quite lively." Xu Shi chuckled, "But she’s young. I brought her to meet you, to experience the ‘Feather Pen’ cultural ambiance." As he spoke, he patted Gu Yi, signaling her to properly compliment his grandpa. "...Oh, oh, absolutely." Miss Black Rabbit caught on, quickly agreeing, understanding this situation was inescapable. Fortunately, Xu Shi’s intention was clear, and composing rhetorical praise was manageable. Compliments? Piece of cake. But how to praise... Her eyes darted around before finally settling on the calligraphy hanging on the wall behind the desk. By the inscription, it was clearly something the old man himself had penned and framed. "I've always been quite interested in literature..." Miss Black Rabbit organized her thoughts, cleared her throat, and began, "For example, this calligraphy... it's, um, really nice." "Oh? What makes it nice?" Her flattery seemed to hit the mark, as Wen Sheng Kui pursued the question with interest. "Well, it's very... dynamic? Vigorous and powerful? It has profound meaning?" Gu Yi rummaged through her mind for relevant terms, "This must say... ‘Savory Pan-fried Buns Center’? Uh, Chairman Wen, are you venturing into the culinary industry...?" Before she could finish, Xu Shi tugged her aside and flicked her forehead. "It says 'A Heart Free of Dust'!" Xu Shi was beside himself, whispering an explanation. Goodness, why not discuss something you're good at? Do you have to choose this moment to challenge yourself? Why not suggest a buffet restaurant instead? The old man also found himself in an awkward spot. At seventy-five, Wen Sheng Kui was for the first time stumped by twenty-one-year-old Gu Yi. Finally, Xu Shi smoothed things over, "Don’t mind her, Grandpa. She's from Crime City; not recognizing cursive script is no surprise. That's why I support your collaboration with 'Dragon City,' right?" "...Hahaha, I'm not blaming her." Wen Sheng Kui laughed heartily, "You’re right; it's a glimpse into the problems of Crime City, which indeed need urgent attention." "But this young lady is quite interesting. If you truly wish to learn, feel free to come by often, and I can teach you calligraphy." "Oh..." Gu Yi responded in a low voice, searching for a crevice to disappear into. "Thank you very much, and shouldn't you thank Chairman Wen?" Xu Shi chuckled, shifting the topic before it lingered uncomfortably long. One slip-up could be glossed over, but too many would become annoying... "By the way, I didn't see Miss He when I came here today." He steered the conversation elsewhere, "I was quite surprised to meet her at your place last time." "What's so surprising? You didn't even know this?" Wen Sheng Kui harrumphed, "That child has been studying here for years. If you didn’t know that, it just shows how little regard you have for your grandpa. Still call us family? Spare me." How would I know that… Xu Shi felt a bit embarrassed, though admittedly he never paid attention to such details in the past, and the original novel never delved into them. But to be fair, wasn’t it because you cut ties with my mom? Don't shift the blame all on me! "You’re truly heartless." The old man didn’t let up, "He Yuxia, by seniority, is your elder. If you have a conscience, mind your manners in the future... As for her whereabouts, she mentioned going on a creative retreat lately, and I haven’t kept close tabs." Absolutely not! Xu Shi refused this arrangement outright. It wasn’t about He Yuxia; it was because this would mean He Jiayuan would become his uncle? No way, absolutely not! "Did she go alone? Is it safe?" He sidestepped the topic, feigning concern. "What danger could there be? She is the eldest daughter of 'Shark Tooth.' Even if He Jiayuan doesn’t acknowledge her, her safety is assured." Wen Sheng Kui wasn’t concerned. Xu Shi realized this too. With He Yuxia’s status, security would always be top-notch behind the scenes, and she merely needed to indulge herself. With that thought, he felt a tinge of wistfulness. That used to be my life too. After some more idle chatting, Xu Shi and Gu Yi bid Wen Sheng Kui farewell and prepared to head home. "Are you leaving already?" Old Wen seemed a bit reluctant, asking wistfully, "Didn’t you say you'd bring a pet for me to see? How could you forget?" The small black dog beside them cooperatively whined, appearing disappointed at not meeting a new friend. "A pet? When did we...?" Gu Yi, puzzled, began to respond before Xu Shi whisked her away with a forced grin, "We came in a hurry; definitely next time." Didn't you already witness it? Not only was there a little puppy, but it’s also a delightfully naive little illiterate puppy! (End of Chapter)