As the crown of all living beings with thinking abilities, humans are extremely complex creatures. Unlike simple-minded beasts with their straightforward nature, humans often cannot see clearly into their own hearts, unaware of what they truly desire.
Take this moment, for example.
While Shi Xiaolei mouth spoke of "summoning a new companion" deep in his subconscious, he actually hoped to draw something like the "Ark" from last time—an object that could bring more benefits to his family life.
It was precisely because of this expectation hidden deep within his heart that his thoughts became clouded, leading him to decide "while I still have an hour or two, I'll go to the Ark and open a blind box"—much like a gambler who believes he can win.
Because he subconsciously hoped for an "item" he unconsciously ignored the possibility of other outcomes, believing things would unfold as he expected.
Simply put, it was because he had predetermined in his subconscious that "whatever comes out will be an inanimate object" feeling there was no need to consider the other party's emotions, which led Shi Xiaolei to make such a hasty choice.
Conversely, if he truly desired to summon a new companion deep in his heart... he might not have arranged a "welcome party" but he would at least have set aside some time for them to adjust.
He certainly wouldn't have done this so hastily and without ceremony during the little free time he had before departing.
As for why Shi Xiaolei would prefer to draw an item...
When your throat isn't parched, you forget the sweetness of clear water; when your stomach isn't empty, you forget the deliciousness of food.
It's simple logic.
His hope for an "item" stemmed from his current peaceful life rhythm—he had no troubles he couldn't solve himself, and in the only two battles he'd faced, he hadn't tasted defeat.
In Shi Xiaolei current situation, he didn't have much need for a "powerful companion"; by comparison, a treasure like the "Ark" made him more eager and excited.
On the surface, he told himself the probability of drawing an item was low, based on the fact that "out of three boxes opened, two summoned companions" but in his subconscious, he was more expectant about a new "item" appearing, convinced that this time he should draw another treasure.
Though direct in personality and straightforward in action, an honest man without much cunning, Shi Xiaolei was, after all, human, inevitably possessing a complex and unfathomable side.
Inside the Ark.
"Dr. Banner, this is Sylvia, and this is Kanna—my family."
Leading the two females into the Ark and finding Bruce Banner waiting in the base, Shi Xiaolei made introductions for both parties.
"Kanna, this is Dr. Banner. Remember that green giant you saw on TV that day? That's him."
"Huh?"
Looking at the scholarly, gentle, and harmless Bruce Banner, then turning back to look at Shi Xiaolei.
No matter how she tried, she couldn't connect this man with the wild, boisterous green giant from the television.
Little Kanna eyes inevitably revealed a suspicious look.
"You're lying, he's not green."
"That's how he looks after he transforms. Just like you, he also has two forms."
Looking at Bruce Banner, Shi Xiaolei smiled apologetically.
"Dr. Banner, kids don't know any better, don't mind her."
"It's fine."
Bruce Banner shook his head and proactively squatted down to meet Kanna eyes.
"Hello, Kanna, I'm Bruce."
"Hmm~"
Tilting her head and examining him several more times, unable to find any green, Kanna could only temporarily abandon her curiosity and respond politely to Bruce Banner greeting.
"Hello, uncle."
With greetings exchanged, both sides were now acquainted.
Watching the little girl move her short legs quickly, running like a streak toward Big White who was sunbathing in the plaza, Shi Xiaolei said with a smile.
"Dr. Banner, I'm guessing you're interested in Big White? Look, if you want to get closer to it, now's the perfect time. With Kanna around, Big White will be more obedient than a trained pet shop dog—it definitely won't dare to put up its spines."
He didn't know if Big White was so obedient to Kanna because of blood lineage suppression, or if, like house pets, it had grown docile from playing with Kanna regularly, becoming so well-behaved in front of its "little master."
Well, regardless of the reason, seeing the interaction between Big White and Kanna, Bruce Banner inevitably felt somewhat impulsive.
Wanting to take this opportunity to interact more with Big White.
Simply put, it was a researcher professional itch, the desire to explore the unknown emerging.
After chatting idly with Shi Xiaolei for a few minutes, Bruce Banner set off toward Kanna and Big White who were playing together.
"Sylvia."
Standing in place watching for a while, ensuring nothing would go wrong, Shi Xiaolei turned around, pointing behind him at the small building, and asked 2B who was standing gracefully beside him.
"Will you stay here and keep watch, or come inside with me?"
"Is something happening?"
"Nothing urgent. Since we still have some time, I was thinking of going inside to open a blind box, see if I can summon another new companion."
Shi Xiaolei answered.
After thinking for a moment, 2B made her choice.
"Then I'll keep watch outside."
As she responded, she gave Shi Xiaolei a smile that spoke volumes.
2B nodded gently, stepping forward twice with apparent fragility yet unshakable determination.
Though there was no imposing presence, one could imagine that if Bruce Banner had any intention of coming this way, she would certainly block him outside the door.
"Alright then."
Hearing the subtext in 2B words, Shi Xiaolei smiled gratefully.
"Thank you, I'll be right out."
Turning to enter the small building made of tech panels, he passed through the first floor filled with various manufacturing devices, as well as the second floor used as a supply warehouse.
The third floor was the living area, which was also the respawn area for characters who died in the game.
After renovations, he had used various furniture brought from outside to furnish it into a living space that was simple but not without warmth.
Coming to the window, he glanced down to confirm Bruce Banner attention was fully on Big White.
Shi Xiaolei casually drew the recently installed curtains and returned to the middle of the room.
Connecting his consciousness to the system, just like the previous three times, he spent 300 sign-in points to exchange for a brand new blind box from the system.
Taking a deep breath, clearing the slightly chaotic thoughts in his mind, a few seconds later, Shi Xiaolei mentally opened the blind box.
There were no light effects, no magic circle—like a video that had been edited, a figure appeared abruptly in front of Shi Xiaolei.
But unlike when Kanna and 2B first arrived, this person didn't immediately react, or even manage to stand steady.
As if still asleep, she softly collapsed toward the floor.
Seeing this, Shi Xiaolei quickly stepped forward and reached out to catch her.
"Mmm~"
About two or three seconds later, accompanied by breathing as fragrant as orchids, the woman in Shi Xiaolei arms slowly opened her eyes.
As if she had been pretending to sleep, upon awakening, the woman had already quietly raised her arm to encircle Shi Xiaolei neck.
Then, another languorous murmur filled with endless seduction.
"Darling, what time is it?"
"...Lady Bayonetta, can we please talk properly?" (T/N: Oh it's just bayo- MOTHER? HELLO?)
[Episode 53: Lady Bayonetta]
(T/N: Like the story fellow daoist?you can read 20 chapters ahead on my P@treon [[email protected]/DaoistRongyi] Thanks for your support! 😊)