From the Abyss of Stars Part 1

051. "Wasteland Punk: Scavenger"

"People aren't gods. Making mistakes is normal." Qiu Ran, with her straightforward personality, laughed heartily. "By the way, we're almost at Sikkim Settlement."

"Really?" Li Aozzi glanced at the task destination. "Yeah, it's not far. Get ready."

"Are you planning to go head-to-head with them?" Qiu Ran was a bit worried. "I know you and Nomi are very capable, but the others are still outlaws. It's dangerous. Whatever happens, make sure you prioritize your safety."

Li Aozzi was taken aback. He looked at Qiu Ran, who scratched her head awkwardly.

"Did I say something wrong?"

"No," Li Aozzi shrugged. "It's just been a while since someone showed concern for me. It's a bit surprising."

"Is that so? Heh." Qiu Ran was relieved. She loved to laugh, which always put others in a good mood. "I used to be the eldest at home, with two younger brothers and a sister. Seeing you and Nomi, I couldn't help but go into big sister mode. Sorry."

"It's not bad."

Li Aozzi changed the topic.

"Although it's a bit unusual... it doesn't feel bad."

"Really?" Qiu Ran's eyes lit up. "I'm honored to hear that from you."

"Is it? Well, you probably see me as a killing machine who can't express emotions." Li Aozzi spread his hands. "I used to be too arrogant, which wasn't good—I'll tone it down. Starting with cherishing life, I won't kill randomly."

"Well—honestly admitting it is fine, just being yourself is enough."

Even so, Qiu Ran muttered softly.

"It's just that killing while smiling is a bit too scary."

"Don't worry, we won't act immediately. Sikkim Settlement is their territory." Li Aozzi explained. "We'll scout first, then prepare to rescue and retrieve the medical equipment before retreating. We'll avoid unnecessary trouble."

"I'll be ready with the car to get you out safely."

Qiu Ran clenched her small fist, knowing her role as a non-combatant.

"My driving skills are no worse than Nomi's."

Li Aozzi nodded. He looked down at his attire: he was still wearing the patient gown from Abyss Humanitarian Relief, with a layer of cotton clothing over it, which didn't fit the outer world.

Entering Sikkim Settlement, he needed a change of clothes.

"Blending in makes it easier to move around."

Li Aozzi opened the game mall, found the clothing section, and scrolled to the bottom.

Half an hour later, they saw a small mountain in the distance. The dark rock blocked the wind and snow. At its base and halfway up, a cluster of metal cans formed a makeshift settlement. Upon closer inspection, the chaotic metal containers had been turned into tightly sealed metal houses.

There were no signs, no walls; it looked like a filthy corner of a kitchen, with excrement and campfires everywhere. The surface appeared empty, with only a few figures moving in the corners, engaging in some kind of transaction. There was no sign of life otherwise.

"This is the drifter's settlement." Qiu Ran sighed. "It's like a junkyard."

"Ha—yawn, good morning, is it morning already?"

Nomi, groggy from sleep, kicked Yavanna next to her and peeked into the front seat. She glanced at Li Aozzi in the passenger seat.

"Wow, the imperial guy knows fashion."