Cyberpunk: Starting in 2071

Chapter 54 Preparations for the Commission, Mewtwo on the Moon (1.33 Million Views, Seeking Monthly Tickets)
When the car stopped in front of V's hotel, everyone got out.

Pila and V were shocked to discover that Rebecca had already officially joined the group before them.

"No, Rebecca!" Pila exclaimed in utter dismay, "Why didn't you discuss this with me first?!"

Rebecca curled her lip in disdain: "What do I need to discuss with you? Useless bro, now greet Brother A properly, he'll be our boss from now on."

"What the hell are you doing?" Pila was completely stunned.

He knew Rebecca's personality better than anyone else; once she made up her mind, nothing could change it.

Mercer shrugged: "Your brother doesn't seem too keen on you hanging out with me?"

"He's a complete idiot," Rebecca succinctly commented.

"Damn it! Rebecca!" Pila was so excited about her that he was very unhappy with the hasty decision he made, but he didn't dare to say anything bad about Mercer in front of him.

So he was so anxious that he looked like an ant on a hot pan, his mouth agape but he couldn't say a word.

Rebecca impatiently picked at her ear with her finger: "Alright, stop yelling. I know what I'm doing. If you don't want to do it, then get lost. I've made up my mind."

She patted Mercer's arm with a smile, then looked at V with an arrogant expression: "Now Mercer and I are on the same side, V, you'd better work hard on your mission."

"Damn it," V couldn't help but curse under his breath. In the blink of an eye, how come he was the only one who had become an outsider?

They didn't even bother to find out what these people were thinking before agreeing to hang out with Mercer.
Okay, V admits Mercer is very generous and seems like a reliable and good person, but...
V tossed his hair in frustration: "I was hired by A, what's it to you?"

"relation?"

Rebecca laughed heartily, feeling no pain at the blow to the head from the gun butt, and immediately wrapped her arm affectionately around Mercer's arm: "Mercury said that if we join his team, we'll be family!"

"Speak properly." Mercer shuddered at the annoyance, pulled his hand away and tapped her head irritably: "Don't provoke her, or I won't be responsible if she gets hit."

Rebecca playfully made a face at V. She just felt that she and V didn't get along, mainly because she was unconvinced that V had defeated her in one move. She was a little unhappy about it.

V stormed upstairs in a huff: "A, are you coming or not? Didn't you say you were going to explain the details of the operation to me?"

"In a moment."

After Mercer finished speaking, he didn't rush upstairs. He glanced at Rebecca and said, "You can stay here for the next few days, okay? You can talk to your brother about joining the group and make things clear. I won't get involved."

“No problem!” Rebecca had long wanted to get rid of the sun and wind on the street.

Excitedly, she dragged Mercer along to book the room. The owner, seeing the group's demeanor, charged only the minimum fee of 45 euros per day.

Rebecca prepaid for a week's accommodation, planning to check out later if she decided not to stay.

The hotel deposit was quite high, 500 euros.

However, as long as there is no gunfight that damages the items in the house, the items will be returned on time.

Besides that, even if someone dies and there's blood everywhere, they'll still refund your deposit in full—it happens all the time here.

Mercer then went upstairs and made his first visit to V's doghouse.

Calling it a doghouse wouldn't be an exaggeration at all, because it was truly a mess, unlike the rooms in games that at least had a smashed-up workspace and professional laptop configurations.

V's current room consists of a bed, a sofa, a coffee table, a TV, and a bathroom.

On the only table, there was a pile of bullets and empty magazines, as well as an old computer that looked very dilapidated.

Besides that, there are only vending machines that seem to be in every household. Washing clothes and using water and electricity are all coin-operated; you get the amount of electricity and water you put in.

No wonder the owner dares to charge only 45 euros a day, because he really only provides one room, and you have to pay for everything else yourself, except for the TV fee and the internet provided by the hotel server.

V was still fuming, rummaging through drawers looking for something to eat. Mercer had promised to treat them, but because of the animal gang, they hadn't gotten a single bite.

Mercer wasn't in a hurry. He just smiled and looked at her for a while before sitting down in front of her laptop.

"Hey, use your computer for now. I'll upgrade your system while I'm at it."

Mercer opened his laptop, but didn't dare to plug in his own data cable directly. He spent several tens of seconds checking V's computer first and found a computer virus.

He deleted the virus, then plugged in his own data cable, checked everything again, rewrote ICE on her computer, optimized the system, and only then did he feel safe enough to transfer the data he had prepared for V.

"You're really something else. What have you been doing with the computer? It's almost at version 2072, and you still managed to get a virus. Don't you think your computer is lagging?"

Mercer said.

"I thought it was just that this thing was old and didn't work well anymore," V scratched her head, a little embarrassed, she didn't really understand.

"It's a good thing you don't have the habit of leaving your computer plugged in all the time. It's just a ransomware virus, not very powerful, it's just for scaring people. Didn't you receive a ransom email?"

After Mercer asked, V replied matter-of-factly, "I received it, but my girlfriend completely ignores it. He's trying to steal my money online, does he even deserve it?"

"That's because his virus doesn't have the ability to get into your brain when you're connected to the internet. Okay."

Mercer quickly made some minor corrections for her, and then transferred all the information about the city hall they were going to that night to her laptop.

"Come here and go over the details of tonight's operation one last time. Then you can think about it on your own. I need to go back and get the access to the cameras, door access, and elevators for you in advance."

After Mercer finished speaking, V approached somewhat listlessly—she was still thinking about officially joining Mercer's team.

Mercer explained the security locations, the nodes that needed to be observed, and even how to insert the chip into the server, until V confirmed that he had memorized everything and had a general understanding of the building's structure.

Mercer handed the computer back to V, looked at Qiwei, and said, "Shall we have a chat?"

Qiwei nodded and walked out of V's room with him. Leaning against the railing of the second-floor corridor, she lit a cigarette.

"Now that you're officially joining my team, Qiwei, there are some things I need to say upfront."

Mercer paused, then turned and looked directly into Qiwei's eyes: "First of all, following me will make you money and allow you to live a good life, that's for sure."

However, in contrast to the benefits, I will definitely attract a lot of trouble.

Especially since it's a big problem for the company. Qiwei, I don't want to lie to you, and I don't want you to be in a dilemma later.

Therefore, I'm giving you a chance to seriously consider and choose again. If you really want to work with me, then you have to be determined to see this through to the end.

Qiwei looked into his eyes, but her tone was unexpectedly calm: "I know A."

Company troubles, gang troubles, and maybe some other troubles I'm unaware of.
I don't care, A.

Qiwei looked directly at Mercer and, in a calm tone, revealed her true feelings: "In this city, I once thought that I would never trust anyone again."

I also feel that this is the way of the city—you shouldn't trust anyone, and you shouldn't have any expectations of anyone.

Only in this way can one survive, or rather, live better.

She exhaled a puff of smoke, then sighed, but looked at Mercer and smiled: "But you've given me a slightly different perspective on this city, or rather, on people."

Or you could say, "hope."

I want to see if someone like you can survive to the end? Can you reach the final stage?

Qiwei expressed her truest thoughts: "As long as you are alive, I will always be a member of the team. No matter what happens, I will be by your side."

But if you die, it means that my previous understanding was correct.

By then, I will no longer trust anyone.

"And if I'm unlucky enough to die before you, then consider it repaying you with my life, since you were the one who saved me."

"Don't think like that. We agreed on 50,000 euros, so it's 50,000 euros to get you out. Don't think that you have to pay with your life."

Mercer rejected her explanation.

Qi Wei was silent for a moment, then couldn't help but laugh even more happily: "Yes, that's it. As long as you don't change, I've seen too many people transformed by this city."

As long as you remain the same, I will not regret my decision today.

A, you really have a special charm. I mean, sometimes I feel you are very innocent, and sometimes I feel you are too mature.

You're a good person, and I believe that more than anyone else now. So, with such a rare and good person by my side, what do I have to worry about or have any concerns?
Even if danger really comes, I won't be the one standing in front, right?

Mercer looked at her for a while, shook his head, and laughed: "That's true, even if the sky falls, there are always tall people to hold it up."

"Hmm, you want V to join? I'll try to persuade her for you?" Qiwei just smiled and said, "She's one of the rare types who isn't inherently bad."

I must say, your ability to judge people is surprisingly good.

Although it always seems like you make decisions on a whim.

"Haha, don't you have people like you to keep an eye on things for me? If the people I find are unreliable, you'll tell me too."

When Mercer said this, he already considered Qiwei as a member of his team.

Despite her unreliable performance in the anime, Mercer decided to give her a chance, believing that time would tell.

He would never be prejudiced against someone because of something that hasn't happened yet. Perhaps he might have a natural affinity for certain people because of the filter of games and anime.

In reality, however, he still judges a person's reliability based on his own subjective feelings.

And
He had a premonition.

He is now on the right path.

Mercer also decided to trust his premonition.

"Don't worry about V." But Mercer still rejected Qiwei's suggestion, saying only, "Following me is a path with both danger and opportunity. She won't go far with her concerns."

I have high hopes for her, but I need her to make the decision herself.

After Mercer finished speaking, Qiwei nodded: "Okay, street talent scout, I'll also keep an eye on that little girl downstairs for you."

"Hmm, once I'm done with my work here, I'll introduce you to my other friends."

After Mercer finished speaking, he paused for a moment and continued:
"I will send you some tutorials and exercises during this period. Your hacking skills are all self-taught from the Internet, so they are still a bit lacking."

As a hacker, both brainpower and technical skills are indispensable. You may have the talent to become a hacker, but being a tech person requires not only a flash of inspiration but also more professional accumulation.

For now, focus on improving your skills. Later, I'll give you some easier work so you can earn a living while simultaneously improving your skills as quickly as possible.

"Thank you, A." Qiwei nodded gently, and after hesitating for a moment, she told Moser what had been on her mind all day.

“A, you should know that I was sold to a sex doll shop,” Qiwei said, carefully observing Mercer’s expression. If he showed any signs of something amiss, she would immediately change her story.

But Mercer just laughed after hearing her words: "I know you want revenge. But I think you'd rather do it yourself than have me do it for you."
Enjoy this pleasurable revenge all by yourself. Just let me know if you need any help.

Let me know before you start, and I'll keep an eye on things to prevent any unexpected problems.

"I really don't know how to thank you enough, A." Qiwei looked at him with a genuine expression of gratitude.

Even someone like her, who had long since given up on interpersonal relationships and had almost lost all trust in people, was still somewhat moved when facing someone like Mercer.

"Then a sincere thank you will suffice," Mercer said cheerfully, waving his hand. "I'll go back and prepare for work; I need to provide technical support to V tonight."

"Okay." Qiwei nodded.

Mercer walked out of the hotel with his hands in his pockets, not disturbing Rebecca and Pila who had finally found a room to rest. He got into his car and drove towards the Badlands.

Incidentally, he also bought Kyoko a new Mewtwo headband in the city that could be used by two people plugging it in together.

It has to be said that the movies in the Super Dream store were quite attractive to Mercer. After hesitating for a while, he still bought a few of the highly rated movies, such as the classic "Bushido" series.

He also bought Lucy an interactive Moon Mewtwo. He bought it as soon as he saw it, for no other reason than that the original Lucy in the anime loved the moon, and he thought the current Lucy would like it too.

Seeing that Mercer had bought quite a lot, the shop assistant secretly recommended a few "exciting" items to him. Mercer hesitated for a while, but ultimately refrained from buying them. Mainly because there was no place to secretly watch Mewtwo.

He couldn't possibly watch it in front of Lucy, could he? That would be too much.
By the time Mercer returned to Adcado's camp, it was already afternoon. He briefly greeted the people in the camp and then went straight back to his tent.

Lucy was searching for information online on her laptop. Mercer glanced at her; she seemed to be just randomly searching for things related to Night City.

"looking at what?"

Mercer was somewhat curious.

Lucy didn't hide anything, and simply said softly, "I'm thinking that once we get to the city, I can go around and explore."

“You don’t have to stay at home all the time these days. If you want to go out, just call Panan and you can go to the city to have some fun. Anyway, she doesn’t have any real work to do and is bored to death.”

After Mercer finished speaking, Lucy chuckled twice, rested her chin on one hand, and looked at him sideways: "If Panan hears this, he'll definitely argue with you again."

"Let them argue, bro. None of the people I've met these past few days have a good temper."

Mercer sighed as he thought of this: "You're still the more obedient and adorable one."

"Ha." Lucy wasn't sure whether she should laugh or not, so she just gave a fake smile: "That's great."

"I'm praising you," Mercer said irritably, sitting down at his laptop to check the status of his self-made AI, 'Morning Star'.

"I don't like you comparing me to other people. What happened to you today?"

Lucy smelled a scent that made her nervous—the smell of gunfire and smoke.

Mercer looked down and said nonchalantly, "I met an interesting little girl, and together we rescued her and killed a few gorillas from the animal gang."

Oh, by the way, she's decided to officially work for me now.

Lucy found herself getting used to it; it seemed like he always had to cause some trouble whenever he went out.

The phrases like "little girl" and "hero saves the beauty" still made her inexplicably unhappy: "Again? Didn't you just save a sex doll?"

"There are too many poor girls in Night City waiting for me to save them, but unfortunately, I can't save them completely enough right now."

Mercer spoke smugly, while Lucy chuckled, looking at the pile of Mewtwos he had brought back: "How thorough do you want it to be?"

"Don't ask, kid." Mercer no longer treated Lucy like a child. Although she looked a bit young, Lucy did give him the feeling of being a sixteen or seventeen-year-old girl.

However, there are some things that are not suitable to be said openly.

Lucy pouted: "Aren't we going out today?"

"Hmm, run the program, then hack the city hall's surveillance network later, from Rogge. You know who she is, right?"

Mercer glanced at Lucy, and seeing her nod, he continued, "According to the information she obtained, the city hall's surveillance network is not directly connected to the data server; it is handled by a separate small server group."

I need to hack that little server to clear a path for V, let her insert the virus chip for me, and then give us a new legitimate identity.

Then we'll have our own bank account, and we can even apply for platinum membership in the trauma group.
Hmm, it seems that once I have an identity and a bank account, I'll also have to pay taxes to Night City. I need to think about and understand this carefully.

Have you thought about your new identity information?

Mercer turned his head curiously to look at Lucy.

Lucy, without batting an eye, said, "Can I make the changes myself? I mean, can I fill in some of the details myself?"

“Sure,” Mercer readily agreed. “I’ll get the access later, you can fill it out yourself, and you can even Photoshop the photo to your liking.”

Since current identity verification relies on the vital sign recognition codes inherent in brain-computer interfaces, physical appearance is irrelevant.

Lucy gave an "oh" and secretly glanced at Mercer, secretly harboring some ulterior motives—she wanted to secretly change her age.

It's not too much of an exaggeration; just change your identity information to fifteen or sixteen years old! That way, you'll be considered an adult in two years.

When the time comes, I'll make him call me "sister"! He's always calling me "brother," even though he should be younger than me!
Mercer was focused on plugging a data cable into his laptop and checking the data of the Morning Star AI, so he didn't notice her little expression.

After checking it over, Mercer couldn't help but smile: "This AI is growing quite fast. It can already be used as a smart assistant. I need to optimize the program. If it doesn't take up much memory, I can connect it to the network access pod to run."

Mercer's bold move actually stemmed from the 'Black Wall Gateway' Type 6 network access module developed by the military science and technology department.

This refers to a special network access pod created by the Little Beidou Project, a DLC in the game, that can be attacked using a black wall.

The network access silo is essentially a built-in AI that guides the firewall to launch attacks.

The specific principles are still unclear, but there is no doubt that this fully demonstrates the possibility of AI operating in the network access warehouse.

This reminded Mercer of the 'Soul Killer' network access module that was kept by Old V, and he still didn't know how to crack it.

Perhaps, using AI is the key to solving that access warehouse problem?
Mercer was multitasking, pondering these questions in his mind while patiently testing the Morning Star AI repeatedly.

After spending a full hour performing a security check on it, Mercer carefully transferred the data to the network access bay.

[Morning Star: Master, your personal assistant 'Morning Star' greets you.]

Mercer didn't have time to create an image for her; she'd have to wait until her intelligence matured so she could decide for herself.

He simply set the gender of the Morning Star to female, and it automatically synthesized a gentle, mechanical female voice.

Mercer nodded in satisfaction. His voice was transmitted directly to his ears via the brain-computer interface, using a universal voice transmission software, just like someone was calling him.

Moreover, because data can be transmitted directly to the network access pod via brainwaves, Mercer can communicate with her in an extremely efficient manner.

Compared to human-to-human communication, which requires converting brainwaves into data and then into language, Mercer can even communicate with his AI in a way similar to exchanging data with AI.

Mercer: What can you do?

[Morning Star: My existence is to provide convenience for my master. I will handle all the daily chores you require, according to your needs.]

Mercer: Would you presume to serve me without my consent?

[Morning Star: I don't understand. I will only carry out your requests.]

[Mercer: Do you crave more computing power, more data, and the ability to grow?]

[Morning Star: I don't need that. I will only provide assistance based on your needs.]

If you feel my abilities are insufficient, you will certainly help me grow. I don't need to increase my data on my own, so as not to place unnecessary mental burden on you.

Mercer was quite satisfied. The AI ​​he had nurtured was obedient and basically met the settings he had instilled in it. Next, he would continue to feed it with data and time.

As for the cost of putting it in the network access repository, it's that about 10% of the memory in the Mercer network access repository is permanently occupied.

As it grows, Mercer believes its final size will likely occupy 30-40% of the network access module's RAM.

Mercer's current Arasaka network access pod doesn't have much memory, and its built-in coprocessor's computing power isn't high either. It's fine for AI to run by default, but he estimates that if he really lets AI run freely, he'll have to rely on his own brain to provide the computing power.

With his brainpower, the computing power he can provide should be quite considerable. Without any issues, he should be able to provide computing power equivalent to a small server.

If Mercer could equip all the prosthetic bodies that existed in Old Vina, he felt he could really try to go head-to-head with Morning Star and some medium-sized servers to challenge each other's computing power.

Don't overestimate the capabilities of this world's servers, or rather, don't underestimate the computing power of the human brain in the cyber world.

Before the collapse of the old network, many hackers used their own brains to run AI, and even used their brain computing power to enhance their AI to fight against roving AI.

Since Mercer had decided to create AI to provide convenience for himself, he might as well use it freely. He greeted Lucy beside him, then painstakingly plugged in all the wires and lay down on the hacker chair.

With the help of the radiator and the hacker chair, Mercer directly dived into the network. This time he didn't wander around aimlessly. He had a clear goal and found the official website of Night City Hall after a few IP redirects.

Based on his previous observations, the official website's server was also located in the city hall, but it was also provided with a separate small server for the network, so it couldn't actually help him hack into the monitoring system.

However, Mercer's purpose in hacking into Night City's official website server was simply to find a stepping stone.

Perhaps it's been too long since any skilled hackers have bothered this place, or perhaps it's because the data stored here isn't particularly valuable to the Night City Hall.

Mercer used the AI ​​from Morning Star to sift through web page data and quickly found a system vulnerability that could help him infiltrate it.

He first obtained administrator privileges through the website, and then easily gained access to the web server by accessing the data entry point used by the group of civil servant programmers to modify the web page code.

After his deep dive, Mercer effortlessly bypassed the red ICE detection program that displayed danger, without alerting anyone, and connected to the other party's server with ease.

He quickly began searching for signals on the server, and soon found several laptops connected to the web server. He picked one that wasn't in use and cracked ICE on it in no time.

Then he used the oldest and most effective hacking method.

Using the computer at this workstation, he first stole user information and then sent an email to the maintenance department employees.

[Stephen: My computer is showing a data error. Can you help me figure out what's wrong? Here's a screenshot of the system error message.]

Sending a direct file might raise suspicion, but most people wouldn't be too wary of a screenshot. Sure enough, the recipient opened the image without any suspicion within thirty seconds. The image was photoshopped on the spot by Mercer; it looked like a screenshot, but it was actually a disguised virus program. The moment the recipient opened it, the program had already hacked into their computer.

Repairman: Dude, you've been using the company computer to access the internet? You've got a virus!

[Stephen: Damn, I just watched some videos. Don't tell anyone, I'm formatting it right now.]

Repairman: Okay, you owe me a drink.

[Stephen: Not today. Next time, I'll contact you first.]

Repairman: I'll remember that.

Mercer chuckled, wondering if Stephen would be completely bewildered by then, but it didn't matter, he would have finished his work long ago.

By taking advantage of the image data being loaded when the repair department opened the image, Mercer's little virus silently entered the repair department's computer.

The so-called "repair department" is actually just an internal network repairman whose computer has access to a secure server.

Mercer quickly logged into the Night City Hall's security server using the other party's privileges and then created a backdoor for himself.

In this way, he would have the authority to control all the devices connected to the security server.

Mercer quickly surveyed the facility's internal structure using the camera's view and attempted to control the elevator and other security equipment. Once he confirmed that it was operable, he easily logged out of the server.

nailed it.

When V takes action at night, he can open a passage from the back door to the underground server room for V without any hindrance, rendering all monitoring and security measures ineffective.

All you need to do is save the network technician's ID; with that ID, you'll have enough permissions to do all this.

By the time the repairman received the message and discovered that his identity had been stolen and that he had gone to the server room on the third basement level, V had already finished his business and made his escape.

Looking at the time, Mercer realized that the entire series of operations had only taken him eight minutes—this time also included when he glanced at the security server data and some employees' personal computer data.

A thief never leaves empty-handed; who knows when he might make an unexpected haul?
In fact, Mercer did find some useful information, which was stored on the network technician's computer.

[Boss: Last week, NCPD mentioned a delay in data synchronization. Please check it out.]

Repairman: Okay.

[Repairman: The problem is with the server's cooling. The server responsible for data transmission needs its heatsink replaced. The CPU power is too high, and our heatsink can't handle it, causing some CPUs to overheat and shrink.]

[Leader: There's no other way then. You'll have to figure something out; the budget is limited.]

[Repairman: There's nothing we can do. The last allocation from above went to the server, not to upgrade cooling. This situation was inevitable. We can only try periodically overclocking to maintain efficiency, but that might shorten the server's lifespan.]

[Leader: That's settled then.]

[Repairman: I suggest we report this to our superiors, regardless of whether they see it or not, to avoid the server breaking down and us being blamed.]

[Boss: I know, it's been hard work.]

Repairman: You work even harder.

At first glance, it looked like an ordinary work communication document, but Mercer keenly realized that there was an opportunity to exploit it.

Does the NCPD periodically update data from the household registration database?

In other words, if Mercer can hide certain data in the household registration data on the server, he can then wait and see what happens.

Once the NCPD updates its database, Mercer will be able to easily use the hidden data to hack directly into the NCPD's data server without firing a shot.

ha.
Mercer suddenly remembered the little program that Old V installed when he updated V's Crossroads Eye at the beginning of the game.

V can use that program to have the same permissions as the NCPD, and can scan the other party's biometric information to directly obtain their personal file stored in the NCPD through the prosthetic eye.

It seems that this time, it's his turn to do the business.

Mercer happily logged off the network, ended his deep dive, let out a long sigh, and woke up from the hacker chair.

“Not bad, I didn’t smell any roasted pig brains this time.” Lucy didn’t even look up, her fingers tapping away on her laptop, her head still plugged in.

Most hackers, except for those who go deep into the internet, cannot control all the computer's data with brainwaves like Mercer; they still need some manual programming.

"Does my brain smell good?" Mercer joked as he sat up.

"No." Lucy wasn't as good at multitasking as Mercer, so her answers were simpler.

Mercer chuckled twice, not in a hurry to disturb her, but instead checked his emails first.

The old captain's reply and the transfer arrived while he was busy making preparations.

[Old Captain: Wow! A, your program is unbeatable! I tested six car infotainment systems, and the longest one only took one second to open! Awesome!]
I had an expert check the hijacking system, and it's perfectly fine!

Enough of that. I'll transfer the money to you, 180,000 euros. Also, starting tomorrow, I plan to use your hacking program to bring a batch of used cars that are eager to find a home.

If you're interested, you can send someone to pick up some work here tomorrow morning. I guarantee you won't lose out; I'll pay you 60% of the selling price for each vehicle.

Also, here's another discount coupon for you. If you see a car you like that I'm selling, I'll give you a discount!
My buddy always comes to you when he needs hacking skills! Your speed and skills are top-notch, no doubt about it!

Mercer replied to the old captain with a smiley face emoji.

[Mercer: Sure, I'll see if my men are interested in making some extra money at your place tomorrow morning.]

After replying to the old captain, Mercer walked up behind Lucy and watched her write code.

Mercer didn't disturb her, but quietly watched her from behind for a while before speaking, "You can't write it like that, there will be a bug, and the program will get stuck here and repeat infinitely. Change this part."
Let's keep this simple too. It's best not to pile up so much complex code. See, it could all be written in a single line of code.

Mercer leaned down and gently pointed at the screen, instructing Lucy.

Lucy also studied patiently and never talked back.

Mercer taught her for an hour, and Lucy studied with intense concentration for an hour. Their teaching speed was very fast, mainly because Lucy's talent was indeed quite good, and she grasped many things very quickly.

Mercer only stopped when he saw Lucy start rubbing her temples, and then suddenly looked at the Mewtwo headband behind him.

"Alright, let's take a break. How about we watch Mewtwo together?"

He held up the Mewtwo Ring and said, "I bought this for Anzu, let's try it out together."

Lucy let out a long sigh, took a sip of her now-cold coffee, and rubbed her face: "Fine, what are you looking at, Sailor Moon?"

Mercer reached out and gently tapped her on the head, then smiled and took out a Mewtwo chip:
"Lunar Explorer. An interactive mecha game, while not fully simulating the lunar environment, allows you to freely explore the moon like in a game."

Although it cannot experience that oxygen-free environment, it can simulate environmental gravity, temperature, and humidity.

"We can both go in with one headband and interact with Mewtwo, just like the soccer game that Daichi and the others play."

Lucy looked puzzled and tilted her head to look at him: "Why did you think of buying this? Are you interested in the moon?"

"Uh, I thought you would like it."

Mercer was also somewhat surprised, but upon closer reflection, the reason she longed for the moon and yearned to escape to it in the anime was because, in the anime, after escaping from the Arasaka base, what she saw was a bright moon.

That's why she regarded the distant moon as an 'ideal land' where she could escape Arasaka's pursuit forever.

However, since she hasn't experienced that, she naturally doesn't have any special feelings for the moon.

Lucy looked at Mercer, and after a while, she smiled: "Then let's go to the moon. Maybe I'll like it?"

She got up from the small stool and sat on the mattress: "Come on, I haven't tried any other type of Mewtwo besides Anzu's Sailor Moon."

Mercer sat down next to her. Although the mattress was small, only the size of a single bed, it was good that both of them were small now.

Squeezing together on the mattress, Mercer and Lucy simultaneously connected their data cables to Mewtwo.

Unlike the Mewtwo headbands in the anime where two people can log in together simply by wearing the headbands, the Mewtwo headband that Mercer bought isn't that advanced; it requires a wire to work.

But when the lights flashed and he entered Mewtwo, what Mercer saw was almost exactly the same scene he had seen in the anime.

"It's so beautiful."

The scorching sunlight beat down on my face, and the universe and the Milky Way were right before my eyes.

The azure Earth lay at the edge of the lunar horizon, and Mercer could even feel a gentle breeze on his face; the fresh air made him want to take a deep breath.

This Mewtwo is designed for relaxation and leisure, not a realistic or hardcore Mewtwo. Everything about it is designed to allow people to experience the moon more comfortably.

Mercer bent down slightly, his fingers touching the dust on the lunar surface. Looking around, he could see solar power generators set up on the moon, as well as people in spacesuits busily building something in the distance.

This chip almost perfectly reproduces a portion of the moon.

But the reason it is described as almost true is because there is no lunar entertainment facility called the Crystal Palace, nor are there any orbital weapons deployed around the moon.

Only a few listless NPCs, repeating the same tasks, provide a sense of realism.

"So beautiful."

Lucy murmured unconsciously.

The Earth in the distance was so clear, and the sun's scorching rays had been adjusted by Mewtwo to a level that was only warm to humans.

She lowered her head, jumped carefully, and then found that she had indeed jumped very high. Under the influence of gravity, she leaped up lightly and landed lightly.

Lucy quickly got the hang of it and started running around happily and freely, or rather, she just kept jumping around, enjoying the magical experience brought by the moon's gravity.

"Mercer!"

She smiled and waved to Mercer, who was still standing there looking at something: "Come on~ I want to go take a look over there!"

Mercer smiled too. He took a step and, like Lucy, lightly hopped across the lunar surface. Listening to Lucy's excited whispers and watching her run and jump freely on the moon, he felt a strange sense of satisfaction.

"Mercury~" she laughed, reaching out her hand in front of Mercer. Mercer reached out his hand, but she jumped back: "Come and chase me!"

ha.
Mercer felt the scene was too youthful, but seeing Lucy's enthusiasm, he had no choice but to play along. In Mewtwo, she was completely letting loose.

The two of them ran a long way, bickering and playing around. She even found some unusual drinks and food at a construction site they passed by.

Lucy took a sip herself—and surprisingly, she could actually taste it.

Zero-gravity carbonation feels like sour sparkling water.

She also found two lunar rovers and raced against Mercer. The two drove at high speed on the lunar surface until she had had enough. Then, she sat contentedly with Mercer on a flat spot on the lunar surface, quietly observing the distant Earth.

"Had fun?" Mercer lay lazily on the ground.

He feels full of energy when he's working, but when it comes to leisure and entertainment, all he wants to do is lie down.

Even though his hormones have made him feel younger, he still finds lying down the most comfortable position.

"Yes, I'm so happy!" Lucy's smile never faded.

"That's good, looks like I didn't buy the wrong thing." Mercer smiled, then saw Lucy come over.

She rolled over, placing her hands on Mercer's ears, looking down at him with her eyes meeting his. Her iridescent pupils stared at him without saying a word.

"What are you doing?" Mercer shrank back awkwardly.

Lucy chuckled, "What are you afraid of?"

Her hair fell to the side of her face, and on her slightly immature face, her smile was more radiant and bright than Mercer had ever seen before.

"Why am I so awkward about getting so close?" Mercer stared at her speechlessly.

Lucy smiled and looked at him for a while, then suddenly smiled, lowered her head, reached out, and hugged him, burying her head in his neck.

Damn, Mewtwo is unexpectedly realistic; even her breathing and body temperature are simulated perfectly.

Aside from not being able to smell her faint, unique fragrance, it's indistinguishable from the real thing.

Mercer's heart suddenly started racing—what's going on?
He was momentarily at a loss, while Lucy suddenly trembled and let out a low, uncontrollable laugh.

"why are you laughing!"

Mercer was getting anxious.

"Mercury."

She spoke softly, without looking up, simply holding him tightly, whispering, "I'm so happy today, really, so happy."

If that's what you're saying, then I won't spoil your fun.

Mercer calmed himself down, hesitated for a moment, and finally reached out and gently hugged her.

The moon's gravity made her feel incredibly light.

Where he couldn't see, Lucy's smile widened, and then she whispered in his ear in a soft, airy voice, "Thank you."

As soon as she finished speaking, she suddenly turned her head and gently kissed Mercer on the cheek: "So, here's a thank-you gift for you."

Before Mercer could react, Lucy let go, sat up, and revealed herself to him.
Mercer could only describe her expression as a 'wicked grin'.

Then, she logged off.

After Mercer belatedly logged off, he saw Lucy looking at him with an expression that seemed to be mocking him.

"Why are you laughing again?"

After Mercer finished speaking, Lucy slowly took off her headband, stretched, and then hummed an unknown tune as she tossed the blanket next to the mattress onto his lower abdomen.

"I know~ it's because your body is too young, right? After all, you don't like girls under eighteen."

After Lucy finished speaking, she smiled and gracefully got up and walked outside. However, her fair face with its rosy cheeks revealed that she was not as calm as she tried to appear.

Mercer pursed his lips and touched his cheek. Seeing this, Lucy unconsciously quickened her pace and disappeared by the tent.

Then the problem is coming.

Does kissing in Mewtwo equate to kissing in real life?

Mercer pondered for a long time and decided to rule it: not count.

It's just an interaction of brainwave data at most, it doesn't count!
And does kissing on the cheek count as being a kiss?
The package can't.

It's just that foreigners are open-minded; it was merely a greeting-level interaction.

He made up a random excuse to fool himself, then casually turned over and didn't bother to get out of bed.

Her scent still lingered on the pillow. Lucy had changed her shampoo; it was probably some kind of unidentified floral fragrance.

Mercer rolled over again, away from the smell, and then lazily dozed off for a while, until Apricot came running over excitedly.

"Mercury! You bought the Mewtwo Ring!?"

She said excitedly, "Are you free now? Let's watch a movie together! I've been holding back from watching it alone so I can watch it with you!"

Mercer decided not to change locations: "Come on!"

Xingzi then jumped over without saying a word. She truly regarded Mo Se as her brother, and Mo Se felt the same way about her.

She chuckled and nudged Mercer, "Make way for me, let's watch the sequel to the one you already saw!"

"Row."

Mercer left her a spot, and Xingzi quickly lay down, plugged in the cable, changed the card, and pulled out the Moon Mewtwo card. She couldn't help but look at the name on Mewtwo's card.

"You and Lucy just watched this? Was it fun?"

she asked curiously.

Mercer remained calm: "It's good. You can go play with Lucy next time. Hurry up and watch it. After watching one episode, I have to get up and prepare for work."

"Mmm!" Xingzi couldn't wait any longer. She quickly inserted the chip and, before Mercer could react, activated Mewtwo and immersed herself in it.

Unlike Lucy's interactive, game-like Mewtwo, the experience of watching Mewtwo movies with two people is not much different from watching them alone.

The only thing they could do was talk to each other while watching the movie.

Anzu seemed extremely excited. When Sailor Moon in the Mewtwo movie used moves like the 'Sailor Moon Beam,' she would even mimic the Sailor Moon's shouts in her brainwaves.

Every now and then, he would give Mercer a thorough lesson, such as what a certain Sailor Moon's special move was, or who the actress was.
Well, Mercer didn't dislike this feeling.

After the movie ended, Anzu reluctantly left Mewtwo with Mercer.

Mercer glanced subconsciously at the blanket covering his stomach—good, this time he had successfully taken control of his will.

Well, it's also possible that because Anzu was making a lot of noise, he didn't pay close attention to the emotions and images in the dream.

"That was really exciting! This villain is way more powerful than the one we saw before; he can even unleash a black death beam!"

Anzu was still muttering to herself when Lucy's voice came from the doorway: "Alright, Anzu, he has work tonight."

"I understand."

She sighed, snapping out of her excitement, and turned to look at Mercer, saying like a little adult, "Mercury, don't overwork yourself. Isn't it nice that we're living here together now?"

We can sing together around the campfire every day, and an auntie even teaches me how to dance. I'm very happy every day.

Don't put too much pressure on yourself, we'll take it slow.

I suppose she came here hoping to help Mercer relax and not be so tense.

Mercer thought about it carefully and realized that he had indeed done a lot in the past two days.

But he had no intention of resting.

That's how a leader should act. Only when he does enough can his subordinates enjoy life. If he goes off to enjoy life, then his subordinates will suffer.

“You don’t need to worry about me. I’m not stupid. I’ll rest when I’m tired.” Mercer reached out and touched her hair. When he saw Lucy bring over a large bowl of stew, his expression turned a little pained.

The people of Adka are so unfortunate; what good food can they possibly eat?
It's just another mixed stew of canned vegetables.

Mercer took the large bowl of stew and said as he ate, "Once we have a place to stay in the city, you can meet my new teammates."

"I'll see if I can buy some nice things then, so we can all have a good meal together."

“That would be great,” Lucy said with a worried look. “Isn’t it too fast? Wouldn’t it be better to observe them for a while longer?”

"Don't worry, buddy, I have a good eye. I only find trustworthy people. And if all else fails, you can always take a look for me."

After Mercer finished speaking, Lucy remained noncommittal: "You didn't tell them about us, did you?"

"In fact, no one knows what I look like. You can't say I've given myself away yet. I'm the team leader now. If they knew my real age, it would be difficult for me to teach people how to do things."

After Mercer finished speaking, Lucy and Anzu both nodded and didn't say anything more.

Trust first.

Even though she felt that Mercer's hiring was a bit too hasty, Lucy decided to trust him for now and observe him patiently for a while before making a judgment.

Lucy reached out and patted Apricot's head: "You should go eat too. Mitch over by the campfire is telling his old stories. I listened for a while, and they're quite interesting."

"Okay! You two can chat all you want!" Xingzi giggled, winked at Lucy and Mercer, and skipped away playfully.

Thanks to her, when it was just the two of them, the atmosphere suddenly became a little awkward.

But only for a moment, Mercer said very naturally, "I'm going deep dive in a bit to provide technical support for V. Keep an eye on things for me."

"Okay, I'll keep an eye on things this time, so make sure you don't ignore my messages."

Lucy waited for him to finish eating, took his things out to wash, and then came back to help him check the equipment. After confirming that everything was in order, she helped him plug in the cables for the deep dive.

Their relationship seemed to have changed a little, yet it also seemed to remain completely unchanged.

As always.

(End of this chapter)