Chapter 157: So You Usually Listen to This?! (Utterly Shocked) - It’s the Cyber Age—Still Playing a Traditional Villain?

Chapter 157: So You Usually Listen to This?! (Utterly Shocked) The atmosphere had descended into an uncanny standoff. Or perhaps it was a one-sided scenario orchestrated by Xu Shi—holding a critical hostage in his grasp, Lin Yue dared not act recklessly, and none present were a match for Su Lin. Indeed, just the two of them were enough to control the situation. Truly, we're too formidable. As he lounged leisurely in the chair, his poise and confidence reminded Lin Yue of their previous confrontation and his demeanor at that time. This demon always seemed to possess an iron grip on everything, delivering the impression of effortlessly turning the tide with a smirk. Even though she had made significant advancements in various aspects, she couldn't shake off the sense of powerlessness when facing him… Or perhaps, being just a minor assassin or even the leader of the Sixth District made no difference in his eyes. But now wasn't the time to dwell on this. She steadied her mind and then fixed a piercing gaze on Xu Shi, asking, "What… are you planning?" There wasn't any needless back-and-forth; Xu Shi appeared before the countdown even began—whether it was about avoiding futile efforts or not, she didn't want to waste time on meaningless endeavors. Saving her sister and understanding the opponent's intentions were far more crucial. "Paying you a visit?" Xu Shi twirled his finger in Lin Xing's mouth, pulling out a glistening thread of saliva. "It's been so long, I'm curious about how much Miss Lin Yue has grown." "Let go of my sister first!" Lin Yue couldn't stand him toying with Lin Xing like that; the anger she had barely managed to suppress flared up instantly. "Sister?" Xu Shi feigned surprise. "You call a cyborg 'sister'?" Then he couldn't help but burst into laughter. "Hahaha... Haha! This is the funniest thing I've heard recently... I only know she's a failed product of the 'Serpent Ring,' a filthy cyborg that defied control and fled." "Still, I didn't expect her to be with you." "It seems that the recent upheaval in the Sixth District was caused by you two? And that you had a hand in the downfall of 'Angry Wolf'… If Ding Jun hadn't complained to me, I wouldn't have believed you had such energy. Tsk tsk tsk." Hearing this, Su Lin, standing to the side, couldn't help but roll her eyes. Master, are you serious? Staying up late to indulge the drama again? Acting as if you’re hearing this for the first time… Weren’t you involved in all those matters yourself? It’s merely a question of what persona you adopted... Of course, sometimes she thought, poor Miss Lin Yue really caught a raw deal. It seemed like she didn’t realize her dearest sister was actually Xu Shi's stand-in. Sometimes, the master did seem a bit excessively malevolent, didn't he? When the truth comes out, she’s bound to be devastated. Especially when entering the Sixth District earlier, Xu Shi navigated it like a fish in water—easier than returning home. Everything happening here, he could see through Lin Xing perfectly, naturally knowing how to slip in with utmost ease. Sure, a direct assault was an option too—switch to the small rig and let Lin Xing give orders, simple as that... But it wasn't time to reveal all cards yet, obviously, this “dear sister” still held significant utility. Once targeted by the master, there’s just no escape. Thinking about this, Su Lin had initially wanted to sigh, but instead, a smile inadvertently formed on her face. Her tendency as the villain's sidekick surfaced, and she realized why Xu Shi had brought her along. Toppling these insignificant foes hardly offered any relief but the current scenario delighted her. "…Stop bullying her. Can I take her place?!" With each word from Xu Shi, Lin Yue’s nerves were plucked like strings on a harp. There it goes again… always like this! Things others held dear meant nothing in front of this guy! Although she hadn't been with Lin Xing long, just a few months if added up, the bond between the sisters was undeniable. Seeing Xu Shi humiliate Lin Xing hurt more than if it were happening to herself. "What's the difference?" Xu Shi glanced at her dismissively, pondering a moment before withdrawing his finger and wiping it on Lin Xing’s cheek. “Alright, alright, not teasing anymore, let's get down to business.” "What do you have to talk about with my sister?" Partially released, Lin Xing rasped, her neck stiffened as she shouted, "Sister, don't worry about me! Find a way to take down this bastard!" “…Lin Xing, be quiet for a moment.” Lin Yue frowned, looking at Xu Shi earnestly. “Speak.” Her sister was willing to sacrifice herself for her, but she couldn't bring herself to let that happen, especially as she gleaned a hint of negotiation room from Xu Shi’s words. She couldn't rush headlong as before, without thought. "You brat, still playing house? Seriously calling her sister? Do you even deserve it?" Xu Shi sneered, yanking Lin Xing's hair back violently. “But this sister of yours is much more adaptable than you. You should thank her for saving your life.” “As a return favor, I only need Miss Lin Yue to do a trivial thing for me.” “Cut the suspense and say it!” Lin Yue strained to suppress the imminent outburst, her words seemingly ground out from between clenched teeth. “Here’s some news: Your heart's longing, Shen He, should be returning to the City of Nightcrime soon.” Xu Shi spoke languidly, “I assume, no, he will definitely contact you.” “So… do you understand what I mean, Miss Lin Yue?” ! With those words, Lin Yue’s mind seemed to explode, momentarily unable to process the information. Shen He… was coming back? She certainly knew Shen He was not in the city now—after searching for so long without a lead, that was the most likely situation. In her expectations, Xu Shi came for her probably because of Sixth District matters—from bits and pieces she could gather, Ding Jun was also one of Xu Shi's subordinates, so it made sense for the big brother to stand up for the little brother when she continuously opposed him. But the reality was entirely different from her assumption, far more explosive. How could Xu Shi know he was coming back? She wasn't informed… of course, to be fair, since being consumed with reforming the Sixth District, her concerns on this matter had diminished, nearly neglecting it recently. Xu Shi’s implications were clear; Shen He seeking her had ulterior motives. She understood her former leader well—emerging after lying low meant a calculated plan. So, he wants me to betray… Realizing this, Lin Yue froze in place. She never considered such a scenario. To put it bluntly, though her passion for Shen He wasn’t as fervent, their relationship only involved "separation," rather than burning bridges. Simply put, it's like exes remaining friends instead of cutting all ties. With that mindset, Xu Shi’s request sounded more jarring. Of course, she didn’t want to idly stand by, but she also knew her sister was in his grasp, and the odds of forcing their way through successfully were slim—Lin Yue didn’t want that risk. Thus. The only path was a binary choice. Would she protect Lin Xing by agreeing to Xu Shi’s request? Or forsake her sister and risk it all against him? “…Shen He might not seek me out.” She made a last attempt to squirm out. “I’m not his subordinate anymore.” “That’s irrelevant.” Xu Shi flicked the gun in his hands, “Suppose he does reach out to you… I only need one word from you: Shen He or your sister, who will it be?” “I…” Realizing her words fell ineffective, Lin Yue was once more locked in a dilemma. Truthfully, how does one choose? Both were crucial to her… but seeing her sister before her, debased by Xu Shi, Lin Yue shut her eyes in pain, resigning herself with a sigh. “…I understand.” She grudgingly muttered. “Can’t hear you, louder.” Xu Shi leisurely leaned back. “I said I understand!” Lin Yue screamed, “I will help you deal with Shen He… if he seeks me out.” “Oh, then I must thank our dear leader Lin Yue in advance?” Xu Shi nodded with satisfaction, patting Lin Xing’s cheek. “Such heartfelt sisterly love, now, shouldn't you thank your sister? It wasn’t easy for her to make that choice.” “Pah!” Lin Xing spat back, “What are you so proud of with your ignoble deeds? Sister, don’t worry about me! My life isn’t worth it; don't let me… look down on you!” "…Don’t say more, Lin Xing. I know what I’m doing." Lin Yue shook her head helplessly. She just couldn't be as decisive as her sister, and deep down, she didn't want Lin Xing to be killed by Xu Shi. Especially when she recalled them discussing how to take him down not long ago, it pained her even more. "It's just that Miss Lin Xing, or should I call her Hexagram, is juggling too many responsibilities." Xu Shi delivered a swift chop to Lin Xing, instantly rendering her unconscious. Then he casually tossed her to Su Lin. "So that's that? Don't worry. As long as you behave, your sister will be fine." "If she loses a single hair on her head, I'll spend my entire life bringing you down!" "Then you can start now. I can already see it coming." Xu Shi grinned, pulling out one of Lin Xing’s hairs and blowing it away gently. "Don't paint me as untrustworthy... I'm nothing but a pacifist with no strength to kill anyone. Plus, I always keep my promises." This only earned an eye roll from Lin Yue. A pacifist? Who caused this chaos, if not you? "This has nothing to do with the young master; it was all me." Su Lin volunteered to take the blame. "Whatever happens, pin it on me.” Does it make a difference? You two are performing a whole comedy act here, aren't you?! Lin Yue glared at her. Indeed, this master-servant duo was equally appalling. She had realized as much the last time she was captured… “You know what you need to do.” Xu Shi was pleased with Su Lin’s willingness to take the heat and stood up to straighten his clothes. “Your agreement to my small request delights Mr. Xu.” “But screaming at me earlier was displeasing to Mr. Xu, so why not take off your top as a sincere apology?” "...Don't push it too far!" "If I were pushing it, I'd make you take everything off." Xu Shi wagged his finger. "…" Lin Yue bit her lip, closed her eyes, and reluctantly did as he said, thinking it was no different from stripping for a dog. “Alright, alright. There are so many people here, I wouldn’t want others to see you that way.” Yet, just as she undid two buttons, Xu Shi changed his tone. “It’s enough that your attitude is evident... I'll take her with me for the time being. Also, remember not to divulge my visit.” What else could Lin Yue do but watch Xu Shi leave triumphantly? Once his silhouette faded, an inexplicable emptiness welled up within her. She felt as if her efforts had been in vain, with things becoming worse instead. It left her wondering if defeating this demon was truly impossible. Truth be told, she could have faked compliance while secretly coordinating with Shen He… Thoughts of such had crossed her mind upon hearing of his return but were quickly dismissed. Reluctantly, she had to admit she couldn’t rely on Shen He to overthrow Xu Shi anymore. Maybe… she should just do as he said… At the same time, she realized something rather unsettling. During her face-to-face with Xu Shi, deep down, she struggled to summon hatred for him. It seemed everything he had done could be brushed off. Her anger flared only upon seeing her sister mistreated by him. Inexplicably, due to not restraining her desire for Xu Shi during this time, she found his demeanor somewhat alluring... Especially when he asked her to undress, to be honest, it wasn't solely because of his threats that she complied… This... … “Ah, it's great to head home to sleep.” Elsewhere, leaving the Sixth District, Xu Shi stretched and couldn't resist poking around his doppelganger. “Playing dual roles face-to-face sure is tiring.” “Let's store her in a warehouse. Meanwhile, contact Cheng Cheng to arrange some aftercare when she’s free.” Without his command, Lin Xing was nothing more than a heap of metal, easy to stow away. “Should’ve thought about this beforehand in the midst of your peculiar hobbies, right?” Driving them home, Su Lin tossed a knowing jab, eyes fixed ahead. “Ah yes, yes.” Xu Shi was in such high spirits he didn’t argue. “Thanks for the lesson, sister.” “…What did you just call me?” Su Lin nodded, satisfied that the young master was paying attention … until she realized something was off. That address didn’t sound quite right? “Ahem, nothing.” Xu Shi cleared his throat to hide his embarrassment, mixing up modes of address… “I heard you.” Su Lin rolled her eyes, amused. “It’s a lesson well learned, brother.” “Are you rebelling?” Xu Shi immediately demanded, “How bold of you to respond like that; just wait, I’ll…” “Dock my pay again?” Su Lin, with no concern for warnings, challenged him. “Go ahead. There’s not much left of this year’s pay anyway.” Hearing himself called brother, even if not genuinely sincere, was worthwhile for her. “That won’t be necessary.” Xu Shi, uncharacteristically, shook his head. “Just answer me one question, and we’ll be square.” “Hmm?” “I've been curious for some time, what kind of music do you usually listen to?” Xu Shi inquired seriously, “You’ve never mentioned it… Could you enlighten me?” Post-battle, Su Lin slipped on her headphones, as was her custom, especially after a bit of exercise. However, it piqued Xu Shi’s curiosity. Something he'd never paid attention to before... now seemed worth exploring. “Nothing special, just ordinary music.” Su Lin paused, then waved him off, her response dismissive. ? What's with the reaction? Xu Shi's curiosity deepened. What’s so secretive about it? So as Su Lin’s attention was elsewhere, he swiftly snatched her headphones for a listen. “Young Master!” Su Lin snapped to attention, trying to reclaim them. But she was a step too slow, as Xu Shi had already donned them. Inside, the music was not what he expected at all. “Papa’s papa is called grandpa…” “Two little tigers love to dance, little bunny obediently moves the carrots…” “Little swallow, wearing floral clothes…” “…” “…” “…” Xu Shi's eye twitched. “You usually… listen to this?” Children's songs compilation? Goodness, what’s this? “…So what if I do?!” Embarrassed and annoyed, Su Lin hastily explained, “During training, they said I carried too much aggression, so kids’ songs were recommended... Anyway, that’s it, give me back my headphones.” It was clear she found being discovered by Xu Shi utterly embarrassing. Yet Xu Shi, the rascal, seized every opportunity to salt her wounds. Returning the headphones, he was barely containing his laughter—a sound reminiscent of a cartoon tomcat echoed. This brought him a new depth of appreciation for irony, elevating Su Lin to a top-tier contrast for her unexpected taste. But he underestimated the backlash of his mockery. Residual fire still simmered within her, leaving Su Lin somewhat agitated. Being laughed at by the master, how infuriating… Thus, she glanced around before unceremoniously kicking Xu Shi out of the car. “We aren't far from home… You can walk!” “Are you truly revolting?” Xu Shi was beside himself, betrayed by his own kind—sent away by the housemaid! A servant telling the master to walk? A first in his life! “I planned to forgo any penalties… don’t expect your salary for next year, either!” He sulked like a child. Su Lin’s response was boldly dismissive, rolling up her window as she shot him a fierce look. “Do as you like!” She was nearly in tears… not because Xu Shi was too harsh, just due to being found out. Social death was minor, but what if he thought she was childish now? That wouldn’t do… Boo hoo… (End of Chapter)