"So as I was saying," I said once we emerged into a round chamber with a short hall leading from it to more labyrinthine bookshelves, "I'd really almost say this world is too real."
"I know what you mean," said Bing Hei, in an uncommonly serious tone, "a few things I've experienced shouldn't be possible with virtual technology, especially Xiao Min's speed-up effect. But if this isn't a virtual world, what is it, and how did we get here?"
"I think…" pausing for a moment, reluctant to share with him, but concluding he'd probably think of it himself before long anyway, "the Dimension Governors know something. I'm planning to start seeking answers from them after I clear the Mortal Snake Temple."
"Not a bad idea. Hey, I think I see the first puzzle up ahead."
We'd followed directions from about 3 puzzles when Chen Huan stopped us. "I sense Auras," he said, "well concealed—not quite well enough of course—but all three at peak Spirit Rank."
