The Eyre, Steadily Advancing

"Beijing TV reminds you that the Earth's Community of Shared Future, led by Huaxia, will convene the 17th Supernatural Conference on the 25th of this month."

"Breaking news: Boundary Ruins NT-56 and KC-07 are about to manifest in Weichuan City. Citizens are advised to prepare for potential impact."

"Recent reports indicate a surge in the number of supernatural individuals in our country. Director Li Wanshou has delivered an important address on the matter."

"[If you dare wreak havoc, this old man knows a thing or two about immortal techniques.]"

"Reliable statistics show a significant decline in supernatural-related crimes."

The ascension of Earth.

The proliferation of the supernatural.

These changes have brought about a cascade of transformations.

The influx of Boundary Ruins has expanded Earth's landmass, ensuring humanity no longer needs to worry about future living space shortages.

However, with this expansion comes friction and tentative exchanges between humans and the otherworldly beings inhabiting these ruins—some of whom possess power rivaling gods and immortals.

Are they benevolent?

Or malevolent?

Humanity cannot discern their intentions outright. Only through repeated exploration can the nature of these beings be confirmed.

Likewise, these entities observe Earth with a mix of curiosity and wariness.

"Master, why won’t you let me intervene?"

In the realm beyond dimensions,

Within the veil separating Earth from the void,

Xu Xi traversed the emptiness, observing the planet's evolving state. Beside him, his loyal mechanized attendant, Ailei, tilted her head in confusion.

The convergence of myriad realms has pushed Earth's order toward chaos.

Yet, if Ailei or the other girls from the estate were to intervene—

With their omnipotent, supreme authority—

They could effortlessly reshape reality,

Enforcing absolute peace upon Earth.

"Ailei, sometimes total intervention isn’t the answer."

"Gentle guidance and measured challenges allow a flower to bloom in its most unique splendor."

Xu Xi explained with warmth.

This was not just his belief but also Li Wanshou’s—a conclusion reached after their discussions.

True, supreme power could alter everything.

But the desires of the supreme may not align with those of humanity.

In the end, Earth’s order would no longer be "human" order but a rigid logic dictated by a higher existence.

Thus, rather than letting the girls rewrite reality outright,

Xu Xi preferred guidance.

He generously shared his insights into supernatural power, intelligence on other worlds, and even donated vast quantities of Dragonblood Grass.

Beyond that, he provided countless supernatural artifacts.

Backed by the state, the Supernatural United Bureau boasted ample talent reserves and had already begun progressing with these resources.

"I... think I understand now."

Ailei blinked, her silver-blue eyes reflecting trails of light.

Yes.

She knew this.

She, of all beings, should have realized.

On the federal planet, Xu Xi had awakened the domestic AI 9090, bestowed it with a new name, and never imposed restrictions—only gentle guidance.

That radiance and warmth remained etched in the mechanized attendant’s memory.

"Let’s go, Ailei. It’s time to return."

"Yes, Master."

Ailei quickened her steps, her silver-blue eyes shimmering as she followed closely behind Xu Xi, her gaze fixed on his back.

Space hummed.

Light and shadow intertwined.

Amidst the blur of illusion and reality, Xu Xi and Ailei descended from their higher-dimensional state, returning to the streets of Yanshan City.

Before heading back to the estate, Ailei intended to make a purchase.

"Ailei, what are you planning to buy?"

"Ingredients for restorative soup."

Her reply was succinct.

With Earth’s ascension, she explained, more supernatural ingredients had appeared on the market—perfect for experimenting with new flavors.

"I see..."

Xu Xi nearly pointed out that ordinary restorative soups had long lost their effect on him.

After all, he was a man who embodied the paths of immortals, gods, martial arts, and sorcery.

But meeting Ailei’s gaze—her overly earnest expression—left him unable to refuse.

"Then I’ll leave it to you, Ailei."

"Serving you is my honor."

With an elegant curtsy,

And a composed response,

Her exquisitely crafted features caught the sunlight, casting delicate contrasts of brightness along her nose and shadows beneath her neck.

"Master, to prevent separation, please hold my hand."

"That’s hardly necessary, is it?"

"This is a precautionary measure, Master."

Too loyal for her own good,

Amidst the flickering sunlight, Ailei took Xu Xi’s hand, interlacing their fingers firmly.

The Thirty-Six Stratagems of Romance.

Stratagem Twenty-One:

Initiate physical contact to swiftly elevate the target’s affection—a tactic with remarkably high success rates.

"Mmm..."

"What is it, Ailei?"

"Your hand is very warm, Master."

The situation had escalated beyond the mechanized attendant’s expectations.

The human body she had crafted for herself

Now pulsed with a rapid heartbeat.

So this was it.

Stratagem Twenty-One’s potency was indiscriminate.

Ailei tightened her grip, mentally noting: Knowledge acquired +1.

"Glad you think so," Xu Xi replied with amusement, maintaining their linked hands as they walked toward Yanshan City’s commercial district.

Along the way, the sun glared—

A blade of light splitting the clouds,

Its heat forcing squinted eyes.

Xu Xi watched the summer’s scorching radiance,

His thoughts drifting.

To the fourth simulation, where he had first crafted synthetic skin for Ailei,

And the illusory summer they had shared.

Back then, Xu Xi had harbored hopes and blessings for Ailei,

Believing that one day, the blurred humanoid form would break free from its mechanical confines,

To experience genuine joy and sorrow.

Now, it seemed that day had arrived.

"Ailei."

"Yes, I’m here."

"The crowd’s thinning. Still not letting go?"

"Negative. Separation remains a possibility."

Ailei stood her ground.

...

Ailei was an excellent bodyguard.

Against supreme power, no disturbance could intrude upon this precious time.

She was also an impeccable maid,

Capable of selecting ingredients with flawless precision—

Though her standards were slightly peculiar.

"Sunblaze Fruit—very nourishing."

"Solar Deity Blossom—also nourishing."

"Great Sun Sparrow meat—ideal for soup."

After rigorous scrutiny, Ailei swiftly gathered the ingredients for her restorative brew, along with supplementary items for the estate.

"Ailei is quite capable."

Xu Xi’s praise came with a smile.

In response,

Ailei’s ears twitched rapidly—

A stark contrast to her usual poised demeanor, rendering her unbearably adorable.

"To serve you better, I still have much to learn."

She spoke evenly,

Struggling to maintain composure.

Good.

Keep this up.

Ailei Unit, advancing steadily!

With the shopping concluded, Xu Xi and Ailei began their return to the estate.

Along the way, Ailei naturally reclaimed Xu Xi’s hand.

"All for your safety, Master," the mechanized attendant justified smoothly.