Since The Red Moon Appeared

Chapter 21: Subaquatic perils

Lu Xin’s demeanor remained composed as he approached the lake. To the casual onlooker, it would appear as though he was simply indulging in a contemplative moment by the tranquil waters, captivated by the ethereal dance of moonlit reflections. Little did they know that he was subtly communing with his sister.

“What’s the matter?” Lu Xin inquired in hushed tones, his gaze transfixed on the placid surface of the lake, bathed in the resplendent crimson hue of the moon.

“It’s hard to say, but there’s an irresistible allure, a tantalizing charm that beckons me,” his sister replied, her excitement palpable as her unwavering gaze remained fixed on the ever-shifting ripples of the waters.

It appeared they had finally stumbled upon the elusive clue they had been seeking.

Casting a discerning glance at the rest of the investigation team, Lu Xin observed the subtle unease that subtly tinged their demeanor. Led by the capable Cheng Hui, the team had already completed the preliminary examination of the area. Seasoned professionals, they were well-versed in their craft and adept at executing standard detection tasks with consummate expertise, rendering Lu Xin’s intervention unnecessary.

Yet, he couldn’t escape the onus of his reputation, a reputation that seemingly preceded him, subconsciously deterring the team from actively seeking his aid. Preferring to eschew drawing undue attention to this aspect, Lu Xin exercised patience, allowing the team to methodically conclude their examination of the environs.

Having gleaned no substantial leads from the first three locations, the team now harbored the belief that the answers they sought might be within the depths of the lake. With measured caution, the team advanced along the narrow road, meticulously sweeping their sophisticated detection devices across every nook and cranny of the terrain.

“The road surface reveals no sigh of psionic residue,” a pair of investigators reported, their disappointment palpable.

Acknowledging their findings, a flicker of concern momentarily etched its presence across Cheng Hui’s shrouded visage.

In a subdued murmur, Lu Xin turned to his sister, inquiring, “Can you use your abilities underwater?”

Exuding enthusiasm, the girl replied, “I haven’t tried, but it seems quite interesting.”

“Ever the dauntless one,” Lu Xin commended, tenderly patting her head. Rejoining the investigation team, he ventured further, “Has the area been thoroughly scrutinize?”

The three team members promptly realigned their stance, nodding collectively in acknowledgment.

Lu Xin expressed his appreciation for their thoroughness before delving deeper, “Do these detection devices really work underwater?”

Despite Chen Jing’s comprehensive explanation, Lu Xin found himself grappling to fully apprehend the intricate workings of these peculiar instruments. One particular curiosity lingered in his mind – his sister stood but a mere five meters away on the lakeside, yet the devices exhibited a conspicuous lack of response to her presence. Could it be that her extraordinary psionic aptitude transcended the limitations of this equipment’s detection capabilities?

As Cheng Hui, the team leader adorned with a distinguished mustache, deliberated, he divulged the disappointing reality to Lu Xin: “Our equipment may just barely function underwater, but the crux of the matter lies in our protective gear; it lacks the requisite waterproof properties.”

Acknowledging his words, Lu Xin comprehended the challenges inherent in conducting investigations beneath the aqueous depths, diverging significantly from the relative safety of terrestrial lands. The efficacy of their submerged detectors was not their foremost concern; instead, the pivotal question centered around the team’s safety and well-being during their venture into the water’s abysmal recesses.

Upheld by resolve, Lu Xin held faith in his comrades, perceiving risk as an inherent facet of their duty, evincing praiseworthy dedication.

After contemplation, a resolute smile graced Lu Xin’s face as he declared, “In that case, I will perform the investigation. The rest of you can maintain your position here.”

“What?” The team members stared, taken aback by his proposal.

Enshrouded by towering walls, the industrial expanse lay deserted, a forsaken wasteland illuminated only by the feeble beams of the jeeps’ headlights. Their minds conjured images of enigmatic and eerie entities lurking in the murky depths of the lake. While facing such perils on land might afford a glimmer of hope, fortune might not favor them in the abyss below.

Despite his unassuming frame, Lu Xin showcased unprecedented valor, while his three comrades displayed unmistakable signs of trepidation, lacking the conviction to undertaking such a possibly perilous expedition.

Lu Xin recognized his undeniable call to fulfill his duty. In reality, Lu Xin bore the nominal title of team leader for this mission, tasked with spearheading the investigation. Yet, due to his limited experience, Chen Jing had assumed the mantle of leadership, making decisions on his behalf. This situation presented an opportunity for Lu Xin’s growth, yet he had found himself relegated to a mere observer as others toiled tirelessly.

Now, the trio of youthful warriors, visibly apprehensive, appeared ill-prepared for the aquatic venture. Thus, it fell upon Lu Xin, a newbie, to seize the mantle of responsibility.

After all, Lu Xin had earned his reward banner through sheer dedication and prowess, serving as an unassailable testament to his commitment to duty.

To aspire to ascend in rank or garner a salary augmentation, one must approach their labor with utmost seriousness and resolute determination.

Indeed, he found it perplexing how, despite his dedication, he had nearly been dismissed by the director…

…

“Are you absolutely certain that all other locations have been thoroughly examined?” Chen Jing’s commanding voice reverberated through the radio as Lu Xin solidified his resolve, preparing to showcase his mettle.

“Affirmative, all clear,” came the unified response from the other three team members, each assuming their positions. Asserting himself as the intrepid captain, Lu Xin stated, “The sole unexplored territory is this lake.”

Chen Jing probed further, “Can you assure me that there are no other uncharted areas left?”

Han Bing, the astute information analyst, affirmed resolutely through the radio, “Confirmed, no other locations remain unexplored.”

A moment of contemplative silence passed before Chen Jing spoke with conviction, “In that case, it is highly probable that the source of corruption lies within the depths of this lake.”

Undeterred by the peril, Lu Xin stepped forward, a determined glint in his eyes, and humbly requested, “Please grant me permission to venture underwater. I am fully aware of the risks this mission entails.”

The team regarded Lu Xin with gratitude, unspoken words of appreciation filling the air, acknowledging his selfless proposition.

Even Chen Jing and Han Bing hesitated momentarily, acutely aware of the gravity of the situation.

“You are well aware of the grave risks associated with submerging,” Chen Jing eventually addressed, his voice reflecting both concern and admiration.

Lu Xin nodded with unwavering resolution. As he shed his jacket, preparing himself to plunge into the water, Chen Jing proposed a safer alternative.

“Wait! Summon the Special Assistance Team immediately. Instruct them to arrive at this location within 30 minutes! We will drain the lake and commence our investigation!”