Chapter Fifty-Three: How Do You Want to Play?

Everyone was stunned by the scene before them; the presentation was unbelievably realistic. The computer-generated characters were more lifelike than those in any film, a testament to the advanced technology of this world.

The shocking murder scene chilled everyone to the core, yet the images continued without pause.

The murder played out: after the man killed the woman, he stood frozen, overcome with regret, though it was useless now. Once he regained his composure, he began to clean the crime scene. He covered the corpse with grass so thoroughly that not a single gap remained, erased his footprints and fingerprints, and destroyed nearly all evidence.

With masterful skill, the man gave everyone a vivid lesson in crime, leaving them both awed and unsettled.

Soon, the police arrived. Although they summoned the suspect back, he had no alibi. Faced with a scene so meticulously cleaned, the investigators were utterly at a loss.

Suddenly, the image froze. Everyone sensed a question was coming. The murderer was obvious—the man—so the challenge would not be simply to identify him. The crowd grew curious about what question Duan Rui would pose.

Duan Rui smiled gently and said, “Well, here is the question: The police have arrived, but all crucial evidence has been wiped away. How can the police find proof that the culprit committed the crime…”

At that moment, the voice Duan Rui dreaded sounded again.

“Mosquitoes.”

The entire hall turned their gaze to Fang Nian. Was he here just to cause trouble? The question hadn’t even been finished, yet he answered already?

“Is it about mosquitoes? What do you mean?”

“I don’t get it. Mosquitoes are normal at night, but what does that have to do with—wait.”

“That’s right, it’s simple. Many people noticed earlier: the man was bitten by mosquitoes several times. While trying to protect the woman from bugs, he killed quite a few.”

“Oh, so that’s it. If the police find the mosquitoes he killed at the scene, they can trace his blood. No matter how he tries to explain, he can’t escape conviction.”

“Ha! It really is that simple! Such a dramatic setup for a straightforward question, you’re overdoing it, young lady.”

“Yes, Duan Rui really lost out this time. A perfectly good presentation ruined by a saboteur. Who knows what grudge they have to be so confrontational?”

Duan Rui stood on stage, her face flushed deep red. Even with her strong nerves, she felt an urge to curse. She had painstakingly designed two teaching segments, only to have this jinx dismantle them without mercy.

If not for her composure, she might have been unable to continue.

Taking two deep breaths, she steadied herself and stared intently at Fang Nian.

“This friend is quite impressive; I assume you have a deep understanding of logical reasoning. Since that’s the case, why not join me on stage for a proper debate?”

A burst of excitement swept through the room; the atmosphere exploded with whispers and exclamations.

This was an open challenge. No one had expected Duan Rui, the princess of District 16, to confront the son-in-law of the Xia family so directly. Clearly, Duan Rui was furious.

Fang Nian had been waiting for this opportunity. He rose, straightened his suit, and struck a pose reminiscent of a drama’s leading man.

“I’ve long heard Sister Duan is the foremost codebreaker in District 16. Fang Nian has always wanted to witness your skills. Since you’re in the mood, I’m happy to play along.”

The crowd, silent for so long, erupted in cheers and excitement.

It wasn’t just the young talents attending the forum; even the security guards and staff were thrilled. This showdown promised to be the highlight of the day.

Who was Duan Rui? The pride of her district, granddaughter of District Chief Duan Lenghan. She had received the most comprehensive education and resources, a peerless figure among her generation. Few dared challenge her.

But Fang Nian? A nobody from District 4, the Xia family’s unwanted son-in-law. His only achievements were surviving two hunts below E-level, feats that were laughable in Duan Rui’s eyes.

The contrast between the two was stark—high above and far below. Yet, the drama was irresistible.

Would the district princess crush Fang Nian with her brilliance, or would Fang Nian stage a miraculous upset and topple the saintly maiden? Such a plot would seem unbelievable even in fiction.

But now it was happening, and the audience could not contain their excitement at such a juicy spectacle.

Jin Jindao looked at Fang Nian and then at Duan Rui, disbelief etched on his face. He knew Duan Rui’s strength all too well; it was one thing for Fang Nian to compete with him, but to challenge Duan Rui was sheer madness.

Jin Jindao shook his head, sighing.

“That guy has no idea how outmatched he is. He’ll be crying soon enough.”

Beside him, Jin Jin Hui, dressed androgynously, waved dismissively.

“Not necessarily. I think Fang Nian has some skill. Didn’t you lose to him several times yourself?”

Jin Jindao shot his sister a glare but didn’t argue, instead clenching his fists. In truth, Jin Jindao didn’t want Fang Nian to lose—he still hoped to beat him someday.

Xu Fan watched Fang Nian coldly, curling his lip.

“Such arrogance. A little achievement and he thinks he’s above everyone? Childish.”

Xu Lang had no strong feeling, only wishing Fang Nian would fail as miserably as possible.

But Xu Zhuo was excited, turning to Xu Fan.

“Big brother, don’t underestimate Brother Nian—he’s really fierce!”

Xu Fan glared at Xu Zhuo, who immediately lost his nerve; he still feared his elder brother.

At this moment, Xiao Xuefeng was already grinning. He had planned to teach Fang Nian a lesson at the banquet, but now it seemed Fang Nian was digging his own grave. Why bother intervening when the spectacle promised to be so entertaining?

Fang Nian stepped onto the stage, graciously extending a hand to greet Duan Rui. But Duan Rui gave him no face, completely ignoring the gesture.

Fang Nian smiled awkwardly, withdrew his hand, and asked,

“Sister Duan, how do you want to play?”