Chapter 19.2

　　After all, one was a notable figure in the university, and the other was a strong contender for the university’s heartthrob title, as well as a sweet Jin Yumeng whose presence added an extra touch of warmth to the club. Much to everyone’s astonishment, all the club members rendezvoused early the following day before departing with jubilant smiles.

　　The adventure club comprised not only members seeking thrilling experiences, but also a group of accomplished students who had gained admission to prestigious universities. Consequently, they approached risks with a sense of caution, prioritizing careful decision-making over reckless behavior.
　　In addition to their thrilling escapades in haunted houses and immersive escape rooms, the club members often sought out well-established scenic spots. On this particular occasion, they had chosen a forest park, a karst cave¹ 溶洞: It is also known as Solutional Caves. They are the most common type of caves that are formed by the dissolution of limestone or dolomite. You can read more about it here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solutional_cave , and a picturesque wetland as their destinations. Impressively, all three attractions were conveniently nestled within the same city. Upon their arrival after a short flight, the group indulged in a brief respite at a hotel before embarking on their first adventure at the forest park.

　　Without a doubt, Jing Xi, Jin Yumeng, and the others formed a group as acquaintances and stayed together.

　　Under a surge of excitement, Jin Yumeng’s roommate fearlessly took the initiative to approach the heartthrob. Sensing the need to create space for the male and female leads, Jing Xi joined the conversation and played along with her. As a growing crowd gathered, Jing Xi tantalized their curiosity by disclosing that he had no specific criteria in his search for his future partner. Adding to the intrigue, he further divulged that he had never been in a romantic relationship and was currently still single.

　　Upon hearing that utterance, everyone scrutinized this dashing heartthrob with profound skepticism. “‘Never been in a romantic relationship’? Who do you think you’re trying to fool?” 

　　Jing Xi promptly retorted, “I merely discuss the realm of romance, not the depths of love.”

　　A collective gasp escaped everyone’s lips. “What a scum!” they exclaimed.

　　Yet, Jing Xi chuckled, “Thanks for the compliment.”

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　　After enjoying a satisfying meal, the group made their way back to the hotel to unwind and recharge for their expedition into the karst cave the following day. 

　　The air thickened with the promise of rain, precisely as foretold by the weather forecast. Even so, they were adamant that the cave’s multiple exits would ensure they remained unscathed from any potential flood. Moreover, it was also highly probable that the rain would have ceased by the time they emerged from the cave. These thoughts firmly settled in their minds, instilling a profound sense of calmness.

　　Spanning approximately three kilometers, the karst cave boasted a vibrant and ever-changing array of colors.

　　Inside, the cave was a visual treat with spectacular views of waterfalls and relaxing boat rides on the serene lake. Along the trail, wooden plank paths were constructed to provide visitors with comfortable walking. As a result, the cave was one of the most popular hiking destinations during the vacation season.

　　Relishing in the scenery, Jing Xi intentionally slowed down his pace to put some distance between himself and the two main leads. With each step, he gradually began to detach himself from the group, finding solace in his solitude. As System’s prompts echoed in his mind, he unhurriedly turned a corner, only to find himself standing before Duan Chi.

　　Clad in unassuming casual attire, the CEO sported a baseball cap and a pair of stylish lightly tinted sunglasses. At this juncture, the overwhelming air of authority that typically encompassed his body momentarily waned, giving way to a newfound sense of youthful energy.

　　Jing Xi gasped, “What a coincidence! You’re here as well.”

　　Playing along, Duan Chi responded, “Yes, it is indeed a coincidence.”

　　Jing Xi questioned, “Who did you come with?”

　　Duan Chi answered, “Some friends.”

　　Jing Xi puzzled, “Where?”

　　In response, Duan Chi’s gaze swept over his assistant and chef, who were well aware of the young man’s presence. Their faces contorted into a rictus of shock, clearly caught off guard by the unexpected encounter. “Oh my, what a surprise to see you here!”

　　A knowing smile crept across his face, as Jing Xi was fully aware that Duan Chi was deliberately teasing him. Bound by blood or not, he could not deny that he relished every moment of this CEO’s unconventional approach to life and business.

　　His tone was laced with playful banter, as he stated, “Well, I’ll get out of your hair, so have fun.”

　　The chef’s words rushed out of his mouth in a flurry, as if desperate to persuade Jing Xi. “Why don’t you join us?”

　　Jing Xi declined, “Oh, I wish I could, but I’m here with my schoolmates.”

　　As he turned to leave, they could not help but feel a twinge of regret. “Would he not have cast you away if you had come alone?” whispered a voice, as if daring to voice the unspoken question.

　　With a playful twinkle in his eye, Duan Chi chimed in, “Ah, but he would have claimed that I was here in pursuit of tranquility and solitude.”

　　Silence followed his words, as the chef exchanged bewildered glances with the assistant. ‘This is a truly vexing challenge!’

　　 Yet, Duan Chi’s heart danced with joy with every stolen glimpse of him, lifting his spirits to new heights. Enraptured in the joyous warmth that engulfed him, he shadowed Jing Xi’s every step, all while maintaining a certain distance.

　　After immersing themselves in the wonders of several key places of interest, Jing Xi and the others were ready to depart from the karst cave. However, fate had a different plan in store. Just as they approached the nearest cave entrance, an unrelenting downpour unleashed its fury, transforming their intended path into a submerged labyrinth. They stood there, perplexed, with no choice but to retrace their steps.

　　As soon as they neared the vicinity of a majestic waterfall, an unexpected tremor shook the ground beneath their feet, instantly transforming the once-composed tourists into a frenzy of panic and fear.

　　“What’s happening? Is it an earthquake or a landslide?”

　　“Hurry! Get out of the cave now!”

　　By this time, Jing Xi had long since tactfully distanced himself from the main leads. As he caught sight of the growing crowd, he summoned Artificial Stupidity. “What’s…”

　　Before he could finish his question, an eerie darkness enveloped the entire cave. The sudden power failure plunged everyone into a disorienting abyss of pitch-black confusion. Panic spread like wildfire, igniting a cacophony of screams and startled gasps that echoed through the cave.

　　Amidst the chaos, Jing Xi could hear terrified screams reverberating through the air, but he was not one to be easily rattled. Just as he was about to suggest everyone to use their phones as a light source, a stampede of terrified individuals charged toward him with unstoppable force. Caught off guard, he stumbled backward and lost his footing on the slippery cave floor before tumbling to the ground.

　　For a fleeting moment, an image of the lake behind him flashed across his mind. With a deep breath, he steeled himself for what lay ahead — a plunge into the unknown depths of the water.

　　At that moment, a hand emerged from the shrouded darkness and firmly clasped around his waist. In a heartbeat, he was pulled into a tight embrace before they surrendered to the imminent descent together.

　　They hurtled down the cascading waterfall and were whisked away into a subterranean river teeming with wild, tumultuous currents. With a forceful surge, the roiling waters swallowed them whole and carried their bodies away in a dizzying whirlwind of motion.

　　Lost in the tempestuous embrace of the river’s untamed might, Jing Xi found himself relinquished from any sense of time. Amidst this aquatic maelstrom, he felt a gentle graze on his lips, a life-giving breath bestowed upon him by his mysterious companion.

　　Finally, their treacherous odyssey unveiled yet another cavern as they broke free from the aqueous embrace. However, an acute pang of pain shot through his hand, reminding him of a close encounter with an unforgiving rock.

　　Duan Chi’s voice suddenly sounded in his ears, “Are you injured?”

　　Jing Xi reassured, “It’s just a scrape, nothing serious.”

　　In the depths of the velvety darkness, Duan Chi cradled Jing Xi in his arms and relied on his exceptional night vision to guide them ashore. As his gaze wandered, it remained riveted on Jing Xi’s slightly moistened lips, reminding him vividly of the events that transpired earlier. In a split second, a rush of emotions surged through Duan Chi’s entire being, triggering the alarm in his bracelet.

　　Following a brief silence, Jing Xi broke it with a curious question. “What about those main leads of yours?”

　　System, too, lapsed into silence for a fleeting moment. “They are both safe. Currently, the male lead is protecting her.”

　　Upon hearing that, Jing Xi let out a sound of acknowledgment. “Dragged down the cave during a heavy downpour?”

　　System maintained its silence, prompting Jing Xi to press on.

　　Jing Xi pointed out, “One was injured and bleeding while the one’s bracelet was ringing?”

　　Still met with silence from System, Jing Xi gibed, “We must preserve this plot point? It sure was thrilling, huh?”

　　Choking with tears, System opened a document and began writing a resignation letter with utmost honesty.