Chapter 64: Two Worlds, One Wall Apart

The game between the highest-ranking official of the base, Wang Yunfei, and the leader of the security team, Tian Xiao, was nothing short of a rollercoaster.

Though the confrontation at the gates of the security tower had led to bloodshed, in the end, Wang Yunfei managed to preserve his prestige and face.

Yet it was Tian Xiao, the security team leader, who truly shone throughout this power struggle. Everyone present witnessed his tactical brilliance—there was no question about it. From his earlier restraint, to his mid-battle counterattack, and finally, the dramatic reveal of the modified "Bluebird" aircraft, it was clear to all that Tian Xiao's abilities rivaled those of his predecessor, Luo Fei.

In the face of Wang Yunfei, who had deep connections with the company's Vice President, Yan Qing, Tian Xiao not only deflected all of Wang's aggressive tactics, but he did so with an effortless ease. Tian Xiao not only neutralized the power plays and threats of the base's highest authority, but he also effectively demonstrated his control over the security team, further solidifying his reputation.

That day's events quickly spread like wildfire throughout the base. Nearly everyone knew about the standoff between the base's top leader and the head of the security team.

That evening, Wang Jingyi, having heard the rumors, hurried to Zhu Xiaotian's room. Their relationship had noticeably cooled after the incident. Zhu Xiaotian no longer made any effort to reach out to Wang Jingyi. What used to be a friendship of equals had now turned into a strained, one-sided effort on Wang's part to approach Zhu, to inquire about Tian Xiao's condition.

Wang Jingyi had also parted ways with Li Ying, especially after Tian Xiao had become part of the security team and recommended Zhu Xiaotian for the same. Friends had slowly distanced themselves from Wang, leaving her feeling incredibly lonely.

Knock-knock.

Zhu Xiaotian opened the door but didn't let Wang in.

"I've been on duty all day. It's been exhausting. Can we talk later?"

Wang Jingyi, standing before her former friend now dressed as a squad leader, noticed the coldness in Zhu's expression, feeling an inexplicable sense of guilt. Once close companions, Zhu had become an essential member of the security team and now seemed to belong to a completely different world.

"I just wanted to ask if there will be any danger after your confrontation with the Base Commander."

Zhu Xiaotian sighed. "Relax, it's not your concern. The conflicts within the security team won't affect the miners. Go back."

She shut the door with a sharp slam.

Wang Jingyi, her face flushed with embarrassment, stood frozen for a moment before turning to leave. In that moment, the wall that separated them felt thicker than ever. They were no longer part of the same world.

After Wang Yunfei's appointment, as promised, he refrained from interfering with the security team's operations. There was a clear boundary—each stayed in their lane.

Tian Xiao, following Luo Fei's advice, enforced a strict schedule for the security team, reducing alcohol consumption and ensuring there were no chances for the men to slack off.

He personally allocated at least four hours a day to high-intensity training.

Because his attributes had already maxed out at the G-level, the pancreatic glands from H-level beasts were becoming increasingly ineffective for him. Instead, Tian Xiao found ways to have his team consume these glands, chewing them raw.

At first, only Zhu Xiaotian was willing to try.

Then, through a few wagers, he convinced Chen Wuling, Lin Hu, Liu Xuesong, Qiao Dazhi, and Liu Fangyan to join in. Though reluctant, they ate the pancreas tissue and were forced to undergo extreme physical training afterward.

The results were astonishing.

Each of them saw a remarkable increase in physical strength. Chen Wuling's overall ability surged to H8. Lin Hu, Liu Xuesong, and several senior members of the team also ascended to H8. Even Zhu Xiaotian made it to H7.

The overall strength of the security team had risen a tier compared to when Luo Fei had been in charge.

What they didn't realize was that the real benefits were coming from the glands of the beasts. They attributed their improvements entirely to the rigorous training regimen, and soon, more members of the security team were eager to join the training sessions.

Tian Xiao was pleased with the results, quietly watching as the team's strength grew day by day.

Soon after, the base received its monthly escort mission.

Tian Xiao received the notice from Flying Shadow No. 3:

They would arrive in three days. Preparations for personnel and base defenses had to be made in advance.

Tian Xiao gathered Chen Wuling and the five squad leaders together for a meeting.

"This time, I'll lead the escort team personally. Zhu Xiaotian's first squad will accompany me. There are no major threats here, but Chen, you'll be in charge of base security. Lao Lu, Lao Lin, Lao Liu, Lao Qiao, all of you need to stay alert. If anything comes up, and it's not urgent, wait for me to return. If it can't wait, contact Luo Lao."

Tian Xiao had no faith in Wang Yunfei.

That Buddhist figure wouldn't understand his true capabilities, and who knew what schemes he might be plotting behind the scenes?

Everyone nodded eagerly.

"We understand, Captain."

"We'll take care of things here. You don't need to worry."

Tian Xiao nodded in approval.

In his mind, there hadn't been any major incidents in the past period. Wang Yunfei and his issues with the company had already reached the headquarters. The fact that no punishment had been handed down indicated someone had intervened on his behalf.

Tian Xiao trusted that the number one figure in Flying Shadow wouldn't let Wang Yunfei overstep his bounds.

This mission should go smoothly.

Everything was arranged.

Three days later, Flying Shadow No. 3 arrived on schedule.

The captain was none other than Zhang Lian, an old acquaintance of Tian Xiao.

"Ha ha ha ha…"

"Tian Xiao."

"Good to see you again."

"I'm sure I owe my promotion to your recommendation, Captain Zhang. Now that I'm in charge of the security team, can we take the opportunity to have a drink once we complete the escort mission to New Moon City?"

"You've got a good liver, don't you? Luo Fei warned me about that. But we'll save the drinking for later. Once you're aboard, we'll find some time to celebrate. Besides, we've got a mission to complete. Don't get distracted."

Tian Xiao couldn't help but marvel at Zhang Lian's composure.

Unlike most people who would have been broken by such a significant financial loss, Zhang remained unfazed.

"Alright."

"We'll do it then."

With the escort mission underway, Flying Shadow No. 3 took off for New Moon City's jump station.

As Tian Xiao boarded the ship, he remembered that he had a lifetime membership at New Moon City's training hall. He hadn't had the time to visit it for some time. Now, with this mission underway, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to pick up some G-level genetic enhancement liquid and further boost his abilities.

With less than 45 days remaining until the Cloud Cup Dragon Slayer operation organized by the Yunzhong Group, Tian Xiao knew he had to hurry and make the most of this opportunity to enhance his strength.