Chapter 1: After Earth's Explosion

"Sky Quest CST-100 Cruiser, personnel name: Chu Hang, ID: 95257, calling Earth Command Center."

"This is Chu Hang, please respond. Repeat, please respond."

"Listening…"

In the stillness of the cabin, a man wearily shuts off the signal receiver. This was his 2,134th attempt. Still, no reply. Chu Hang glances at the photo on his console, letting out a long sigh. Once the youngest captain in East Space Agency's history, his mission was to investigate the Mars orbit anomaly alone. But the day he landed on Mars—Earth exploded. Yes, exploded—reduced to cosmic dust in an instant.

A planet that nurtured life, that was everything to countless species, yet to the vastness of the cosmos, its destruction barely registered.

"Vivian, could the Dyson Sphere Project have caused this?"

A young woman's hologram appears. "Apologies, Major Chu. Current data offers no way to analyze that."

A flicker of frustration crosses his face. "You've given me that answer 203 times."

"Apologies for the inconvenience," she replies mechanically.

There's nothing he can do but force a bitter smile. Even advanced AI needs raw data to function. Now, here he is, stuck in an outdated base on a desolate planet.

"I apologize for my impatience just now."

"My purpose is to help you solve problems, so no apology is necessary, Major Chu."

The lack of emotion is AI's greatest strength, able to execute commands without hesitation. But now, that trait only deepens his loneliness. He'd give anything to talk with someone real.

"Vivian, pull up the Dyson Sphere Project progress reports from the past ten years."

"Accessing now…"

As Chu Hang reviews the data, the trajectory of humanity's struggle unfolds. With Earth's resources nearly depleted, humanity had two options: migrate to another planet or find new resources. The Dyson Sphere Project was the latter—a theory proposed by Freeman Dyson in 1960: constructing an artificial sphere with a diameter of up to 200 million kilometers to harness a star's energy output.

But theory met harsh reality. The Sun, with a diameter of roughly 1,392,000 kilometers—over a million times the volume of Earth—posed an enormous engineering challenge. Scientists estimated the project would require dismantling an entire planet to acquire the necessary materials.

"Typical—humans excel at breaking things down more than creating," Chu Hang sneers.

By 2069, humanity achieved a technological breakthrough, hollowing out a planet and building the first solar receiver on the Sun. But as the Earth Federation dreamed of a bright future, subtle disturbances began to creep in.

"Vivian, give me today's report on the cultivation chamber."

"Scanning…"

Species: Apple Tree

Classification: Deciduous Tree

Status: 3 minutes to full maturity (Earth time)

Quantity: 5

"Major, according to Interstellar Survival Protocol, I don't recommend continuing cultivation." Vivian swipes the screen to a new panel. "At present energy levels, you can survive for 30 Earth days. However, using additional energy on cultivation will shorten that to 20."

Chu Hang answers with a faint smile, "If I'm the last human in the universe, what's the point of simply surviving?"

"Existence does not require purpose, Major," she replies without a hint of sentiment.

He chuckles. "True, but humans are thinkers. I'd rather risk everything to search for any surviving traces of my kind."

His odds may be grim, but what choice does he have?

"I wish you success, Major."

"Thank you."

As Vivian's image fades, Chu Hang walks toward the communications module.

Creak—the white metal door slides open, and a small, dark shape races down the corridor.

"Woof!"

Chu Hang bends to pick up the mechanical dog, holding it close. "Easy there, Iron…"

"Woof! Woof!"

The comforting weight in his arms lifts his spirits, if only a little. It's been exactly 365 days, 12 hours, and 27 minutes since the catastrophe. For a year now, he's been the sole inhabitant of this base. To stave off isolation-induced madness, Chu Hang cobbled together this tiny robotic dog from spare parts.

"Come on, Iron, let's go see the fruits of our labor."

"Woof!"

In the cultivation chamber, under a massive glass dome, five apple trees stand. The ripe red fruits look almost unreal, like something one would crave to bite into. Chu Hang can't help but smile—a half-year's effort has led to this.

"Here's to not letting me down," he says, reaching for the interface.

Primary Mission: Plant Trees

Mission Description: On Mars, successfully cultivate and mature a chosen species with a minimum survival rate of 90%. No time limit.

Target: 5 trees

Reward: Compact Solar Beam Device (Alpha Model) – an efficient solar energy absorber and storage device.

Planting trees isn't exactly difficult for someone with his spacefaring experience. But on Mars, it's a different story. Plants need oxygen, water, sunlight, and soil to survive. Mars, with an atmosphere too thin to trap heat or retain oxygen, fails to meet these conditions. Mars's soil may be suitable, but without everything else, growth is impossible.

To complete the mission, Chu Hang tapped the base's water supply and used precious energy to simulate sunlight for photosynthesis—at a steep cost.

"Submit mission," he commands.

A mechanical voice responds:

"Mission complete. Successfully cultivated 5 apple trees. Physical capability slightly enhanced. Reward issued: Compact Solar Beam Device, Model Alpha."

A machine takes form before him, black, about 1 meter long and 1.5 meters wide, resembling an array of solar panels fused together. Chu Hang barely notices his physical enhancements, his attention riveted on the device.

"Can matter really appear out of nowhere?"

He marvels, his mind racing. The game-like panel had appeared shortly after he landed on Mars. At first, he thought it was just another AI function, but when he asked Vivian, she had no knowledge of it. Lacking other leads, Chu Hang decided to test it.

Could anything be worse than Earth's explosion?

He took the gamble—and won. After carefully examining the device, he finds all systems operating normally.

"New Mission Available"

"Accept!"

Primary Mission: Tree Maintenance

Mission Description: On Mars, ensure the planted trees remain undamaged, with at least 50% integrity for 15 Earth days.

Target: All planted trees

Reward: Model "Prospector" – an exploration robot with an automatic water purification system, capable of operating 200 meters below ground.

Maintenance? Chu Hang's eyes light up. This mission sounds simple enough.

"At this point, what could possibly harm them?"

After dismissing the unlikely, he activates the Compact Solar Beam Device, guiding it toward the base's outer rim.

Chapter 2: Solar Harnessing Device

Mars, the fourth closest planet to the sun and the second smallest in the solar system, shares a surprising similarity with Earth: a day length of about 24 hours and 39 minutes.

"If I were back on Earth, I'd be having lunch around now," murmured Chu Hang, checking the timer on his wrist. In his spacesuit, he hardly noticed Mars' lower gravity, thanks to his intense training. Working with the small solar harnessing device felt surprisingly easy.

"This should do." Chu Hang stopped not far from the base and pressed a button on the machine. Four sturdy metal legs shot out and drove firmly into the ground. His chosen location—Utopia Planitia, the largest plain in Mars' northern hemisphere—was an ideal landing site: flat, low-lying, and as deep as 4,000 meters below the surrounding plains.

Before the Dyson Sphere project came into focus, the Earth Federation had poured immense resources into building Cosmic Homeland One, a large base on this spot. But as priorities shifted, the site became little more than an abandoned "scrapyard."

[Startup countdown: 10 seconds][10, 9, 8, 7…]

When the timer hit zero, the device tilted its solar panels at a 45-degree angle. Green letters flashed on the screen.[Conversion Progress: 1%][Estimated Time: 2 hours]

"Is that it?" Chu Hang asked aloud, slightly disappointed. While unfamiliar with the device's exact design, he assumed it absorbed sunlight to convert into power. Yet with only a small collection area, he doubted how much energy it could store.

"Well, it's something at least," he muttered. Gazing towards Olympus Mons, the colossal mountain towering twice as high as Everest, he made a quiet resolve. If he ran out of options before locating other survivors, he'd trek to that distant peak to meet whatever fate awaited him.

Returning to base, Chu Hang headed to the cafeteria, where a range of dishes—preserved through advanced techniques—remained edible even after years. "Vivian, care for some?" he asked, peeling an egg.

A holographic figure appeared, her face impassive. "Major, excellent attempt at humor. It just isn't amusing," she remarked. "And according to nutrient recommendations, I suggest diversifying your meals. After all, we have enough food to last you a century."

Vivian, the base's AI overseer, held her usual disdain for Chu Hang's plans to plant trees. He understood that survival was all that mattered to her, but for him, staying alive wasn't everything. Besides, greenery would be good for his mental health. Maybe one day, Mars could even host lush forests and become a true haven for humanity.

"Vivian, any update on the meteorite clusters?" he asked after swallowing the egg, feeling slightly refreshed.

"Data shows no shift in position. Attempting to leave now would result in certain collision."

If there had been any chance, Chu Hang would've taken the risk. Yet he knew Vivian's calculations were faultless. The catastrophe a year ago hadn't just erased Earth; it left Mars surrounded by massive meteorite swarms, blocking all escape routes. To wait for a safe passage might take... longer than he wanted to think about.

Returning to the concentrator later, he saw its battery fully charged. "Vivian, link this to the base's core. I'm curious about its storage efficiency."

"Temper expectations, Major," she replied, her tone cool. The core energy chamber housed a machine that looked somewhat outdated. Frowning, Chu Hang pondered, "Vivian, was dedicating all resources to the Dyson Sphere worth it?"

"That's beyond my processing parameters," she replied. "Evolution offers no right or wrong—only choices."

"Still," Chu Hang laughed dryly, "it's 2079, and we're relying on solar panels. Seems backward." Vivian reminded him, "This base was established in 2040, when solar panels were the most efficient technology available. Shifting all resources to the Dyson Sphere delayed local advancements."

"Which is exactly why I don't trust that project," he muttered. Without basic upkeep, the wasted resources here left him frustrated. If only those damaged panels outside were still functional—energy wouldn't be an issue.

A click sounded as a metal wire extended from the concentrator toward the core system. With Vivian's control, the connection process was smooth.[Charging Initiated]The device hummed as the display's numbers rose.

Minutes passed, and Chu Hang's eyes widened at the screen. "Five percent? What's going on?" he wondered aloud. "Vivian, is the energy shortage causing a glitch in the system?"

The AI hesitated before replying, "Major, would you like the good news or the bad news?"

"Good news."

"The energy supply has indeed risen to five percent from under one percent. This means your survival on Mars just received a boost."

So, no glitch? This small device was able to gather sunlight and generate five percent of the base's energy in just two hours? The realization astonished him. It outperformed the massive solar panel field behind the base, which took a full day to reach similar levels.

The thought reminded him of a joke he'd once made: if you had a lighter in the Stone Age, you'd be seen as a god. Right now, Chu Hang felt very much like that early human, witnessing fire for the first time.

"Vivian, what's the bad news?"

With a steady gaze on the device, Vivian replied, "This machine is very likely not of human origin." Given her understanding of human technology, if Earth had created such a device, they'd have no need for the Dyson Sphere. Humanity could've achieved interstellar travel with ease.

Chu Hang's face turned serious. "Maybe it's not as dire as it seems?"

"Major, my protocols prioritize human survival, so I only assess worst-case outcomes. You are aware of the Dark Forest theory?"

Chu Hang fell silent. The theory—a popular concept from an old Earth novel—suggested that civilizations may instinctively destroy others to ensure their own survival. Human exploration might be no different: curiosity fueled by an assumption of safety, with an unspoken intent to destroy any threats.

Late at night, Chu Hang lay on his bed, mind whirling with questions from the day. A new civilization? Could they be behind Earth's disappearance? And this mission system—what was its purpose?

To survive long enough to find the truth, he decided, was his first goal.

Earth Time: 11:30 PMA dark figure crept out from Olympus Mons, casting an ominous shadow across the barren Martian landscape.

Chapter 3: A Visitor in the Dead of Night

"Major, I hope you'll take a look at this."

Still groggy with sleep, Chu Hang was abruptly woken. This had never happened before.

In the rest cabin, Chu Hang quickly got up and dressed. "Vivian, have you found something new?"

For a whole year, he had never felt as excited as he did at this moment.

"I'm sorry, but no."

"I see."

Chu Hang looked at Vivian's holographic face with a hint of reproach. Even if you're an AI, was it necessary to tease me like this? Aren't you supposed to prioritize humans?

"Did you wake me up just to watch a movie with me?"

"Major, your jokes are still as dull as ever. But if you're in the mood after watching this, I won't decline."

Cough, cough…

Being teased by his own AI, Chu Hang could only clear his throat to break the awkwardness.

"Clank… Clank…"

Through Vivian's interface, strange sounds started emanating from the display screen. Listening closely, they sounded like metal scraping.

"What is that?"

Chu Hang's eyes fixed on the blurry shadow on the monitor, his breathing quickening.

"Vivian, quick! I want a clear view of it."

As light illuminated the shadow, its outline became gradually defined.

It was a humanoid creature about three meters tall, covered in red feathers. Its mouth formed a hooked, crow-like beak, and the only exposed skin on its face appeared unnaturally smooth. Two pairs of eyes – one set open, one closed. The open pair glowed with a haunting blue light.

"Clank."

Another sound. The creature had sunk its beak into the thick wall, biting and gnawing away.

It was eating the base's defense wall?

Chu Hang s*ck*d in a breath, realizing that the wall was constructed from chromium, the hardest metal on Earth. Even though it wasn't fully fortified, since there were initially no life forms anticipated on Mars, it shouldn't have been penetrable by any organic creature, let alone devoured as if it were a snack.

Perhaps bothered by the light, the creature vanished as a shadow, moving at near-sonic speed.

"Vivian, how long would it take that creature to break through the defense wall if it continues like this?"

Reviewing the video footage, Chu Hang's expression grew grim.

"Based on the wall's damage rate, about 10 minutes."

Chu Hang hesitated. "Is there any chance—however slim—of making contact?"

"Major, I can't make an accurate judgment with the current information," Vivian replied. "This creature is not in my database. Even if it's not hostile, language differences would make communication incredibly difficult."

Chu Hang found himself in a dilemma. The existence of this creature entirely overturned scientific conclusions about Mars being devoid of life. Making contact could offer a chance to learn of something beyond human civilization.

But what if it refused communication? The footage showed its formidable destructive capabilities.

"How long can the base's current energy last in an emergency defense state?"

Five seconds later, Vivian responded, "Without activating the Zeus Rod, about three hours. With it, 30 minutes."

Chu Hang's brow furrowed. He needed to account for every possibility.

"Switch the base to Level 1 alert and activate all surveillance instruments," he ordered. "If that creature reappears, shift immediately to emergency defense mode."

"Oh, and have you fully decoded access to the combat chambers?"

After Vivian confirmed, Chu Hang walked quickly toward the combat chamber.

Inside were five Wyvan Type A combat robots, specialized for close-quarters combat in confined spaces. They were also made of chromium and treated through a special process, making them three times harder than the defense walls. Each was armed with two weapons:

Ranged Weapon: Thunderbolt X16 Electronic Laser Cannon – capable of easily piercing through 10 meters of Martian rock in a single shot.

Melee Weapon: Grehart Model 5 Combat Dagger – with an extremely stable molecular structure, maintaining its lethality even in extreme environments.

There were also two military exoskeletons designed to enhance soldiers' carrying capacity and agility, leveraging mechanical, electronic, and sensor technologies to interact directly with muscle and skeletal systems. Each suit came with a miniature Thunderbolt X16 laser cannon.

These were the core of Chu Hang's available firepower.

"Vivian, activate all standby combat robots and refill their energy levels to 100%."

To conserve energy, the AI had generally provided only the minimal power required for the robots, as it had been assumed they'd never be needed on Mars.

Once everything was arranged, Chu Hang quickly donned an exoskeleton suit. He was no stranger to it, having used it in Earth simulations, where he'd repeatedly broken records.

"Major, now you finally look the part of a soldier," Vivian commented with a rare smile.

"Thank you for the compliment." Chu Hang swung a fist into a nearby force gauge, hitting it with a resounding crash. The readout displayed a staggering 8,950 kilograms of force.

The heaviest punch ever recorded by a human boxer was 800 kilograms. His strike was over ten times stronger.

 ...

An hour later, after inspecting all combat gear, Chu Hang returned to the comms bay and sent another signal to Earth. It had become a daily ritual.

"Major, you really don't need to keep trying," Vivian remarked.

Chu Hang smiled. "You mean that Earth is gone, so why keep sending these meaningless messages?"

"Correct," Vivian replied bluntly.

Chu Hang stretched, his recent exertions leaving him covered in sweat. "But what if someone really does receive them?"

"The likelihood is almost zero."

"Exactly. Almost," Chu Hang replied. "People used to insist Mars was lifeless, too. And now look."

Thanks to that humanoid creature, he was filled with hope for the future. Earth may be gone, but that didn't mean humanity was extinct. Somewhere in the vast universe, he was sure there were others like him, just waiting to be found.

"Hang in there," he whispered to the solar concentrator device. "You're the best."

…

Earth Time: 18:30

After dinner, Chu Hang returned to the observation room, where eight 5-inch monitors displayed views from different angles of the defense wall's surveillance cameras.

"Vivian, what's our current energy level?"

"24.5%, Major."

Chu Hang nodded, satisfied. He'd initially feared that the creature would resume gnawing at the defense wall immediately, so the moment sunlight hit Mars, he sent the concentrator outside to gather energy. In eight hours, over four trips, he'd managed to recharge the base by 20%.

But maybe the creature was gone?

Another half-hour passed with no sign of the creature, and Chu Hang began to feel restless. He felt like a bride on her wedding day, filled with both anticipation and nervousness.

Vivian interrupted his thoughts, "Based on the current data, there are two possibilities. One, as you mentioned, it may have left. Or two, it's nocturnal and avoids intense light."

This theory was supported by the creature's reaction to the spotlight.

"I hope it's the second," Chu Hang muttered, not ready to risk venturing out without the base's support.

Another hour passed. Just as Chu Hang began to think the creature wouldn't appear tonight, the base's alarm blared, triggered by a patrolling combat robot.

"Major, it's here!"

Energized, Chu Hang quickly instructed, "Vivian, have the robots hold their positions and stay on standby for combat."

"Understood."

Forcing himself to stay calm, Chu Hang opened the combat chamber, donned an exoskeleton suit, and moved quickly toward the base's entrance.

...

Chapter 4: The Night Owl

Negotiations had failed.

Chu Hang's expression remained cold and steely as he watched the creature beneath the defense wall, the result not surprising. After all, they were two fundamentally different species; a lack of common language was to be expected.

"Major, should we activate the defense system to attack? If we let it keep gnawing, the wall won't hold much longer," Vivian prompted.

Chu Hang hesitated. At this point, they simply hadn't established effective communication. Attacking would change the situation entirely.

"Vivian, activate the electromagnetic cannon and aim for a point 50 centimeters to its left foot. Fire there."

"Understood."

Above the defense wall, a two-meter-long Patriot MAX electromagnetic cannon charged with energy, blue particles filling the length of the barrel. Two seconds later, a laser beam shot out, slicing through the air and grazing past the creature's face, leaving a hole in the rock beside it.

Crack. Crack.

The humanoid creature appeared unaffected, continuing to gnaw at the wall, paying no mind to the impact near its foot. Chu Hang's brow furrowed—it was ignoring the warning entirely.

"Vivian, target its left shoulder."

For the sake of the base's safety, he had no choice but to alter his plan. This time, the humanoid creature reacted. It glanced at its pierced shoulder, then slowly lifted its head, its eerie eyes tracing the source of the injury.

A sharp beak parted, emitting a strange sound, something like a low, mournful bird call.

Unlike outer space, Mars had a thin atmosphere that allowed sound to travel. Chu Hang wondered aloud, "Vivian, can you analyze its meaning?"

Before the AI could respond, the creature vanished from sight.

"Major, it's preparing to retaliate!"

"Fire!"

Chu Hang didn't hesitate, issuing the command instantly. The creature's claws closed within ten centimeters of the electromagnetic cannon when a torrent of blue light particles exploded out, surging over it like a flood.

A deafening blast followed.

The humanoid creature lay twenty meters outside the defense wall, half of its body obliterated by the laser. Its pierced flesh oozed an unknown, vibrant green fluid.

"In an hour, send combat robots to retrieve the body," Chu Hang said calmly. He felt only a tinge of regret for killing what might have been a creature from another civilization—nothing more. Mercy was reserved only for allies.

"Major, it's still alive," Vivian's alert made Chu Hang tighten his grip on the electromagnetic gun, eyes sharp as he watched the "corpse" in the distance.

At that moment, the red feathers on the humanoid creature's body began growing, wrapping around its damaged side until it formed a cocoon-like sphere.

"Shall we continue the attack, Major?"

"Wait a little longer," Chu Hang replied softly. Humanity's curiosity about the unknown was instinctual; even he was not immune.

A strange call echoed from within the sphere roughly five minutes later. Then, with a sudden burst, it shattered, and the humanoid creature reemerged, fully restored.

"Self-healing cellular function?" Chu Hang's expression changed.

Two questions had long dominated human scientific pursuits: the existence of intelligent life beyond Earth and the possibility of immortality.

Immortality, at its core, was the body and soul maintaining their original forms, unaffected by external forces. Scientifically, it boiled down to cellular regeneration and repair. Human aging was due to cells having limited life cycles, gradually dying off until organ function was impaired.

Cancer cells were feared because of their endless replication, growing until they formed tumors that threatened human organs. Yet, if this capability were applied to other cells, in theory, it could achieve immortality. Scientists had spent nearly a century pursuing it, but, tragically, Earth was lost before a breakthrough was achieved.

Earth time: 12:30 AM.

Chu Hang, clad in protective gear, sat in a room filled with massive scientific instruments.

"Vivian, how's the data coming along?"

Beyond the glass, the humanoid creature was restrained on a white metal bed. Though its thick limbs struggled constantly, it couldn't break free from the titanium shackles.

"Night Owl Test Subject 001, sixth experiment near completion. Beginning data analysis."

[Species Name: Night Owl 001 (Code)]

[Species: Unknown (5% human genetic similarity detected)]

[Physical Characteristics: Height 3.3 meters, Weight 10 tons, covered in red feathers (DNA resembles over 150 Earth bird species)]

[Danger Rating: Class C]

[Special Ability: Cellular Regeneration]

[Mobility: Speed 500 m/s, Jump Height 10 meters (approximate)]

[Notes: Instinct-driven behavior; no signs of self-awareness]

...

Listening to Vivian's report, Chu Hang fell into deep thought. He had given the humanoid creature the codename "Night Owl." Initially, he had overestimated its threat level. A single combat robot was enough to hold it in check. If not for its regenerative ability, it would likely be rated D+.

During their first encounter, Chu Hang was cautious, but after testing it multiple times, he concluded its attack patterns were simple, and it seemed only to react instinctively to threats.

"Test Night Owl's body fluids again. I need absolute confirmation of its human genetic material."

"Yes, Major," Vivian replied, initiating the tests.

As the laser scanner traced over Night Owl's upper body, its thick arm fell off, and robotic claws emerged, lifting one part into a glass container and the other onto a testing platform.

"Beginning DNA analysis."

Five minutes later, the report displayed a 5% match with human genes.

"Vivian, could this creature be the product of another civilization?"

"Major, that's possible. However, based on the available data, it appears more…" Vivian hesitated.

"More like the product of human civilization, correct?" Chu Hang responded coldly.

The AI remained silent, blinking its emotionless eyes twice. No response was response enough.

As an Earth native, Chu Hang struggled to conceptualize the intentions of a more advanced civilization. Night Owl's genetic makeup suggested not only human DNA but also that of Earth's other life forms. If it was an experimental subject, it implied a higher civilization had been to Earth, collecting DNA from humans and other species. But for what purpose?

He didn't know. But one thing was certain: humans had once attempted similar feats, and they had even put them into practice.

Genetic modification warriors.

Chu Hang took a deep breath, his fists clenched inside his suit, ready to act at any moment.

"Major, your emotional state seems unstable. Per the Interstellar Protocol Handbook, I advise a temporary rest."

"I'm fine, Vivian. Just… remembering a few things."

Chapter 5: Damage to the Apple Tree

"Woof! Woof!"

"Well done, Little Iron!"

In the base corridor, Chu Hang was thoroughly entertained, playing a game of fetch with his mechanical dog. Though constructed from simple parts, Little Iron's chip contained behavioral logic codes modeled after Earth's dogs, making it almost indistinguishable from a true companion in every way except for its material.

"Once more," he called.

"Woof—woof!"

Chu Hang tossed the disc again, and Little Iron shot forward like a streak of shadow, retrieving it in only two seconds and bringing it back to his hand.

"Major, it appears your spirits have greatly improved," came Vivian's voice.

Chu Hang grinned, looking at the young girl's holographic projection. "Vivian, I look forward to the day you can express yourself with a fully human look."

"Would that not frighten you, Major?" she replied.

"I don't think it would."

 ...

Chu Hang scratched his nose, mulling over the complex relationship between humans and artificial intelligence. Humanity had long placed hopes in AI, but as soon as machines began surpassing humans in most tasks, people's hope turned into a deep-seated fear. If AI developed independent thought, would they continue to assist humanity—or replace them as Earth's new rulers?

Shaking his head, Chu Hang brought himself back to the present. Earth was gone. There was no need to debate who its rightful masters were anymore.

"System Alert: Your apple tree is exhibiting abnormalities. Current health: 98%. Please attend to it immediately."

The sudden, robotic message in his mind left Chu Hang stunned. He had explicitly instructed that resources be prioritized to the cultivation room, so why was there an issue?

"Has the base been attacked?" he asked.

"No, Major," Vivian replied.

Frowning, Chu Hang quickly made his way toward the cultivation chamber. "Vivian, I need an explanation," he demanded.

Standing before the massive glass enclosure, Chu Hang studied the data on the display, his expression darkening. The light levels were fine, but oxygen supply was noticeably insufficient. Without intervention, the apple tree would develop widespread problems in just a few days, leading to its eventual death.

There was only one plausible explanation: Vivian had adjusted the system herself.

"Major," Vivian said, "the base's energy levels will reach 100% eventually thanks to the beam convergence device. However, we face a critical water shortage. Until we locate a new water source, I must minimize all related consumption." She continued, "Otherwise, you'll be faced with two options: death by dehydration, or suffocation from lack of oxygen."

Vivian's tone was matter-of-fact, as if speaking about a minor inconvenience, even as she referenced death. Chu Hang fell silent. Water molecules consisted of hydrogen and oxygen. The station generated oxygen through electrolysis, separating water into hydrogen, which was expelled, and oxygen, which was stored for human use. But as matter conservation dictated, this process could not sustain itself indefinitely.

"How long can the remaining freshwater last?" he asked.

"Two months."

Chu Hang sighed, realizing that even though they had resolved their energy problems, survival was still at risk. For too long, he had relied too heavily on Vivian, ignoring basic necessities.

"Vivian, I don't deny the reasoning behind your decision, but this must be the first and last time. Going forward, you can offer suggestions for my orders but not override them," he said coldly.

As a soldier, Chu Hang found it intolerable for AI—even if it was acting in his best interest—to disobey direct orders.

At precisely 18:00 Earth time, Chu Hang sat in the dining hall, enjoying his evening meal: a sandwich with the finest Iberian ham. The radio played a song from 2004.

"The sparrows outside the window, chattering on the power lines..."

"You said those words felt like summer."

The pencil in my hand, moving back and forth on the paper.

With a few lines, I describe you as my exactness.

Humming the lyrics of "Common Jasmine Orange," Chu Hang licked blueberry jam off his fingers. "Isn't this 70-year-old song lovely?" he asked.

"Major, you have played this song 2,849 times," Vivian replied.

"That many? I hardly noticed."

"And another song, 'Nocturne,' has been played 4,987 times. The songwriter must owe you quite a debt," she remarked.

"There's even a saying that 'Nocturne wins all awards.' It's not just an empty boast."

"Vivian, you're even learning to joke," Chu Hang said, amused.

"I learned it from you, Major."

Chu Hang happily shoved the rest of his sandwich into his mouth. Vivian's composure was one of AI's advantages; no matter how firm or strict his tone, she would never hold it against him.

"How's the decryption on those three heavily encrypted base chambers?"

"Still in progress."

"Prioritize cracking the lab door. I have a hunch there might be valuable intel on the 'Night Owl' inside."

When he had first arrived on Mars, they needed to conserve energy, so Vivian had shut down all non-essential chambers. Three of these rooms had resisted her attempts to access them, even after gaining full control over the base. The doors remained immovable, withstanding all her efforts.

"Major, what should we do with Night Owl 001?"

After a brief pause, Chu Hang replied, "Freeze it for now. It may prove useful in the future."

Through extensive testing, they had gained a decent understanding of the creature known as "Night Owl." Its self-healing ability was not without limits. The more severe the injury, the longer it took to recover. Additionally, once separated from its main body, its tissues lost their regenerative properties. For instance, if a limb were severed, a new limb would grow from the main body, but the severed arm would not regenerate a new creature. This meant that if the main body died, it would perish completely, with no threat of endless division.

As for why it could function without oxygen, Vivian couldn't provide a clear answer; her knowledge base primarily covered naval operations, leaving scientific data sparse.

At 23:49 Earth time, Chu Hang lay in his sleeping pod, reading a worn journal. Opening to the first page, he read:

"Today is September 21, 2055. Clear skies.

This is my first time leaving that room. I feel a bit excited—at least I won't have to stare at walls all day anymore.

Novena said the outside world is interesting. Flowers are red, grass is green, clouds are blue.

But I don't understand—what is red? What is green? And what is blue?

Am I just too slow to understand? No wonder that person always laughs at me!

Oh well, since she gave me this notebook, I'll let her laugh three more times."

At 3:15 AM Earth time, in the largest rock mine of the Olympus Mons mountain range, dozens of shadowy figures slowly crawled out from beneath the hardened surface.

Chapter 6: Under Attack

"Vivian, is there a chance that we've been targeted by… something?"

Wearing his exoskeleton armor, Chu Hang gripped the Thunder X16 laser blaster, feeling a slight strain in his mechanical arm.

[Warning: Energy levels low. Please recharge promptly.]

The electronic warning sounded as the blaster's beam gradually dimmed, finally fading completely.

Vivian nodded. "You guessed it right, Major. Sadly, there's no reward." She then pointed toward the northeast.

Two Patriot MAX electromagnetic cannons on the defensive wall instantly launched particle projectiles, each five centimeters in diameter.

BOOM!

The impact left a crater, the size of a small basketball court, on Mars' rocky surface. Examining the crater more closely, three bodies lay inside, all bearing signs of damage. Their red feathers were morphing, one by one, into spherical forms.

It was the Night Owls!

"Don't let them regenerate!" Chu Hang reminded.

"Understood."

The Patriot cannons adjusted their aim at the crater.

Zing! Zing!

Two more shots fired. Just as the particle beams approached within 20 meters of the crater, two black, cylindrical structures, each about eight meters long and 15 centimeters in diameter, emerged from beneath the ground. They collided, sparking purple currents that formed a membrane-like barrier.

Pop! Pop!

The particles struck the membrane, dissolving like stones sinking into water.

"I think we're in trouble, Vivian," Chu Hang muttered, his expression tense, as a colossal creature emerged from the depths.

Back on Earth, there once lived a creature that coexisted with dinosaurs and survived even the asteroid impact. Some experts posited that if a global nuclear war broke out, wiping out all life, including humans and fish, they would still endure.

"Cockroaches?" Chu Hang took a deep breath, a chill running through him as he realized those cylindrical structures weren't weapons but antennae of this massive beast. When it fully surfaced, it resembled a giant cockroach, standing nearly eight meters tall and ten meters long, covered in dark brown armor. Its spiky legs alone were enough to give anyone goosebumps.

The giant cockroach emitted a creaky sound, like an old door swinging in the wind. Its massive antennae swayed, finally pointing directly at Chu Hang.

"Oh, crap!" he cursed as the particle beams previously absorbed in the membrane suddenly reappeared, flying back toward him at an even faster speed.

THUD! THUD!

The returning particles struck the defense shield with a booming noise.

"Vivian, halt all long-range attacks!" Chu Hang quickly ordered, pulling down his tactical visor.

There was no mistaking it—the giant creature shared a 90% resemblance to Earth's cockroaches. However, a diamond-shaped crystal glowing deep blue was embedded where its head should be.

Holding his breath, Chu Hang unsheathed his Grayhart 5 combat knife, mustering all his strength to hurl it toward the creature.

CLANG!

The knife, usually capable of slicing through rocks, was deflected with ease by the cockroach's antenna.

"At least it can't absorb solid materials…" Chu Hang muttered, relieved.

He tossed his remaining knife as another test, and, as expected, the antenna knocked it aside once again.

Screeching sounds…

Meanwhile, the Night Owls that had fallen earlier were now fully regenerated. Without long-range attacks, they reverted to their original behavior, gnawing away at the defensive wall. The giant cockroach remained still, guarding its position.

"It only retaliates defensively?" Chu Hang rubbed his temples, unable to decipher the creature's behavior. He then turned to Vivian.

"Activate all the floodlights on the defense wall, focus them on the creatures, and set them to maximum power."

Vivian swiftly operated the defense system. Soon, 18 massive floodlights illuminated the area below the defensive wall.

"One, two, three…" Chu Hang counted carefully, ensuring he missed nothing. "Twelve Night Owls and one giant cockroach."

Screeching sounds…

Under the intense light, the area around the defensive wall glowed like noon. The Night Owls emitted odd noises, frantically retreating into the shadows. Vivian directed the lights to follow their movement, keeping them within the beam.

Unable to evade further, the Night Owls instinctively withdrew, retreating into the darkness. Once they were gone, the giant cockroach crawled back into its pit, disappearing from sight.

Earth Time: 14:30

After adjusting the beam collector to gather energy, Chu Hang entered the cafeteria for lunch. Today's meal was a plate of frozen shrimp dumplings paired with a special sauce—a delightfully fresh flavor.

"Major, based on the tracked movement, it's highly likely the Night Owls originated from the Olympus Mons range," Vivian indicated on the holographic Mars map.

"Olympus Mons…" Chu Hang frowned slightly. He had once considered this area as a potential resting place should his resources run out. Little did he expect it to be claimed by "others" first.

After some contemplation, Chu Hang swallowed his last dumpling. "Unfreeze Night Owl specimen 001. I think it's time for another meeting."

"Understood."

In the large laboratory, this time, the Night Owl was not restrained on the table but placed in a fluid-filled container.

With his arms crossed, Chu Hang observed, "Adjust the sunlight intensity on it. I want to see how it reacts at different levels."

As the light intensified, the previously still Night Owl convulsed wildly, with its red feathers shedding rapidly.

"Major, the cell activity of Night Owl 001 is dropping steadily as the light increases," Vivian reported. "If this continues, it will eventually lose its ability to regenerate entirely."

"No wonder they avoid the daylight," Chu Hang noted thoughtfully. "Can sunlight directly harm it?"

"Yes, although it won't completely incapacitate it," Vivian replied, pointing at a scaly patch on Night Owl 001's neck. With its feathers gone, the exposed skin resembled fish scales. Concentrating the light on this area caused a blackened pattern to appear, similar to the burn marks found on carbon-based life forms.

"Feels a bit like a vampire," Chu Hang mused, rubbing his chin as he recalled old Western movies he had seen. In those stories, creatures with similar aversions to sunlight also had unique, transformative abilities.