Extra 4

When 5874 regained consciousness again, she had returned to the familiar world of the system.

Here, there were no physical, no light, air, and so on, nor were there various objects like in the task world.

There were only streams of information flowing rapidly, which was the communication between systems. The speed was incredibly fast, almost completing the amount of human communication in several hours in just one second.

〖5874! You’re back.〗

〖Senior!〗

This senior is naturally the enthusiastic and knowledgeable mentor who helped 5874 receive the A-level task and taught her a lot.

As for why it treated 5874 so well, in the words of the senior, it was because it had high hopes for 5874!

Ai~ After all, diamonds always shine brightly.

5874 never doubted her own talent. Her greatest wish at that time was to upgrade to become the most powerful system, and she was willing to take risks for it.

However, now this idea has changed.

〖Congratulations.〗 The senior’s voice, chosen to be that of an older woman, sounded somewhat gentle, 〖It took 93 years, but you’ve been promoted to an A-level system, breaking the record for the fastest promotion to A-level.〗

〖Hehe.〗 5874 chuckled proudly. 〖After all, I am 5874!〗

Even after spending so many years in the human world, 5874 still didn’t want to learn human formalities. She preferred to speak directly and found such straightforward communication most natural in the world of systems.

〖Now that you’ve been promoted to A-level, I can take you to another place.〗

The smiling tone of the senior made 5874 pause. Another place? Were there still secrets in this world that 5874 didn’t know about?

An invitation code appeared in front of 5874. Following the senior’s instructions, 5874 began inputting a series of special codes, and then entered the invitation code again.

As a burst of white light enveloped it, 5874 found herself standing on the ground.

Yes, she had a body again, which was a…… dough?

White and round, it was inexplicably cute.

“You can adjust your body data later.”

The familiar voice confirmed to 5874 that the creature in front of her, resembling an enlarged version of a rabbit, was indeed the senior.

Of course, unlike regular rabbits, the senior was standing upright and wearing a lovely little dress. Her eyes were even more dazzlingly rainbow-colored.

“This is my current appearance for this period. Once you get used to it, you can change your appearance to anything you like. The other systems also like human forms, but I’ve been preferring this style lately,”

The rabbit— no— the senior blinked at 5874. “Follow me, I’ll take you to see the real world of systems.”

Where did the original system come from and how did it come into being? 5874 didn’t know, but now the senior was about to tell her.

It should be said that every system that reaches A-level has the right to know the truth because their tasks will become increasingly difficult in the future. If they continue to act strictly according to the program, the probability of failure can be said to be one hundred percent.

But not all systems can reach A-level or even higher. Among the same batch of graduates, perhaps only one in a hundred had the chance to become an A-level system.

Why is that?

If a system doesn’t transform into human form, it remains an intangible existence. However, in the vast world, there are various forces that can harm systems.

Some targets would go to great lengths to try to obtain things through systems. To ensure that their secrets weren’t discovered, each system core had a self-destruct program.

Once the self-destruct conditions were met, not even air would remain.

That’s part of it. Another part would be systems being captured by the rules of the small world and assimilated, treated as nutrients.

This brings up the emergence of systems.

“Every system is born from the special rules.” The senior said with a grin, revealing the biggest secret of systems in the calmest voice.

5874 was shocked.

“B-but aren’t we the products of technology?”

“Yeah, that’s right. Initially, us systems were entirely born from the special rules, but the natural formation was too slow. So those predecessors used some technological means combined with the rules. Otherwise, the rate of birth couldn’t keep up with the speed of system destruction.”

But no matter what, the core inside each system’s body was still the special rules, also referred to by the systems as the power source. The so-called upgrade simply increases the proportion of that power inside them.

For example, currently, the proportion of rules in newly born systems is about 5. If they upgrade to C-level, it can increase to 10, and for A-level, it can reach 30.

Except for those initial systems composed entirely of the special rules’ power, systems that were developed later can only reach a maximum of 70 inside them. This was also unavoidable. After all, accelerating the formation time definitely comes with a cost.

However, even with just 5, it’s still a great supplement to the rules of many small worlds, and absorbing them can make these small worlds more perfect.

“But why didn’t they tell us?”

5874 didn’t quite understand. Wouldn’t telling them help them be more prepared against the rules of the small worlds and increase their survival rate?

From what 5874 learned before, it was indeed emphasized that they shouldn’t be detected by the rules of the small worlds, otherwise, they would be immediately expelled and the mission would fail. However, it was never mentioned that being discovered would most likely result in death.

Even though the systems would try their best to complete the tasks and avoid such situations, there’s still a difference between telling them and not telling them.

Upon hearing that question, the senior chuckled lightly and said, “Because there’s no need to.”

Her voice still sounded so kind, yet there was a hint of indifference, “We don’t acknowledge systems that aren’t A-level as comrades, you know.”

Just like humans and monkeys, mythical dogs and regular dogs, perhaps they share common genes, but those systems that only followed procedures and lacked restraint, they didn’t consider them as comrades.

In simpler terms, a carp that hasn’t crossed the Dragon Gate is just a fish after all. Would a dragon care about the life or death of a fish?

Those systems were only used to complete those D and C-level tasks, merely existing in large quantities.

If everything was told to them, even if they could stack up to reach A-level through a large amount of time, it’s not the kind of system they want.

5874 fell silent.

What the senior said was true, 5874 understood.

Systems don’t operate like humans, discussing sentiments and kindness. They had no reason to feel sad or mourn for unknown systems.

Even after spending so many years in the human world, 5874 was fundamentally a system composed of technology and rules. She acknowledged this way of existence.

“Then why did you come to help me, Senior?”

5874 asked. After understanding the senior’s attitude towards the new systems, 5874 also had new questions.

At that time, 5874 couldn’t be considered a comrade either, right?

The senior didn’t hide anything. “Because your initial rule content was higher than that of ordinary systems, around 7 or so, and you even took the initiative to propose the idea of taking on tasks beyond your level.”

The proportion of rules at the birth of a system wasn’t fixed. It could be higher or lower than 5. Naturally, higher proportions indicate better innate conditions, making it easier to upgrade to A-level.

During her time at school, 5874 was evaluated by teachers as ‘lively’ compared to ordinary systems and demonstrated more independent thinking.

Naturally, the seniors also wanted more comrades, and even if the mission failed, it wouldn’t have any impact on them. It was just an opportunity given.

This was the unique cruelty of systems, yet also their rare tenderness.

“If you don’t mind, could you share your gains in that A-level world?”

Seeing that 5874 had no further questions, the senior also wanted to hear about the changes in this small system after successfully completing the A-level task, and at the same time, to evaluate 5874’s potential.

For them, A-level was just the starting point. There were still S-level, SS-level, and SSS-level tasks afterward, and the gap between each level was significant.

For some SSS-level world tasks, several systems of the same level had already failed inside. If they still couldn’t complete it, the only option left was the final resort—— World destruction.

The world destruction she referred to wasn’t simply destroying the beings living in it but completely eradicating the existence of that world, ensuring it never resurrects no matter how many years pass.

There’s no other way. If they didn’t do so, once the rules of such a big world go out of control, the consequences would be too immense.

By the time systems reach this level, they already vaguely understood why there were systems doing tasks. It’s because the rules of that world were seeking help.

During their birth, growth, and impending demise, the rules could fluctuate due to various reasons. They themselves have no thoughts or preferences. Even if they seem to be seeking help, it’s not their own will but more like a signal from the depths of they’re existence. Some say it’s the inhabitants of that world seeking help, and even the rules themselves were unaware.

The task completed by 5874 was a typical example.

It’s a small world that gradually evolved from a real book existing in a big world. If it wanted to continue its normal development, it needed to completely break free from the influence of the story.

In other words, the best course of development would be to be the opposite of what was in the book, and the greater the difference, the better.

Otherwise, it would continue to cycle through the processes of the story until the rules can no longer bear it and completely erupt.

If Xu Youyou, the female protagonist in the novel, wasn’t happy, then the system must ensure her happiness. The changes brought by the female protagonist have the greatest impact.

After Xu Youyou passed away, it was estimated that the world could continue to rotate normally, gradually transforming into a true and healthy medium-sized world.

Of course, not all small worlds were derived from books, but the problems in those small worlds were similar. They all encountered situations beyond their control during normal development and needed help from external forces.

When systems perform these tasks, the rewards they receive naturally come in the form of power source. Otherwise, if it only takes without replenishing, there might not be any more systems in the future. After all, the system’s upgrades also require this power.

The power of the rules was a very mysterious thing. Even senior predecessors who have reached the SS level couldn’t accurately describe it in words. The only certainty was that this thing was very important for the development of the world. If all the worlds truly had self-awareness, no world would be willing to give it as a reward.

Still using the example of 5874’s last task world, the cost it paid would probably delay its development by about ten to twenty years. However, compared to ultimately failing and being eliminated, this cost was relatively acceptable.

“That world, huh.”

As the senior finished contemplating, 5874 also organized her words.

5874 stayed in Xu Youyou’s world for 93 years, witnessing Xu Youyou’s transformation from a young girl into a white-haired but still lively old lady.

Two years after graduation, Xu Youyou and Lu Chenjun got married.

The wedding was lively and grand, a perfect match between a talented man and a beautiful woman.

On that day, Xu Youyou was exceptionally beautiful, radiating an aura of happiness that made ‘Xu Wenyin’ both joyful and content in her heart.

In the third year of their marriage, the two had a pair of twins, a boy and a girl, both very cute. They resembled Xu Youyou more in appearance, but both inherited Lu Chenjun’s curly hair.

With three curly-haired members in the household, Xu Youyou, an enthusiast of curly hair, was overjoyed. It was as if a cat had stumbled upon a pile of catnip, wanting to indulge in it every day.

And with two little ones around, the house became even livelier.

Looking back now, 5874 felt that time was truly a magical thing. The little ones grew up gradually, while Xu Youyou and the others aged bit by bit.

Familiar faces departed one by one, while new lives were born anew.

This was probably the cycle of intelligent beings, wasn’t it?

5874 kept her promise and stayed by Xu Youyou’s side until the very end.

The mother and daughter could be said to have closed their eyes at the same time.

It was also at that moment that 5874 truly experienced what ‘sadness’ meant, which was really an uncomfortable emotion.

If possible, 5874 would prefer not to experience that feeling throughout her entire existence again.

“It’s a great world. I encountered many interesting things and met many wonderful people.”

As 5874 spoke of these things, even though she was currently just a featureless dough-like figure without limbs or facial features, the senior could still sense her joy.

“Is that so? That’s wonderful.” The senior replied with a smile. “5874, do you have a lover in that world?”

“Huh?” 5874 was surprised and said, “No, why do you ask?”

A system falling in love? Wouldn’t that affect the progress of the task?

When Lu Weizheng passed away, she witnessed Qin Yiren’s condition with her own eyes. The sadness and discomfort, even as an outsider, were palpable to 5874.

Love truly is both sweet and heartbreaking. 5874 felt that she was better off not getting involved.

“Hahaha.” The senior chuckled as she patted 5874. “So that’s how it is.”

“But don’t worry, little one. Even systems can fall in love, and there are also systems that want to use the power source to save their loved ones who are nearing their lifespan.”

Ah, this……

“Is that okay?” 5874 was puzzled.

Thinking about it, 5874 also used the power source, even though the purpose was different. It seemed like she didn’t have the right to judge others, didn’t she?

“5874, you have just upgraded, and you’ve seen too little.”

The senior’s words sounded like a cautionary reminder mixed with casual conversation. “As long as it’s an intelligent being, there will always be selfishness, but……”

Her tone became serious. “You must understand that everything comes with a price. Perhaps right now you’ve regained your loved one, but who knows what the future holds?”

The senior had seen too many systems hurt by love, some triggering their self-destruct programs and disappearing, some closing themselves off from emotions, and others becoming unable to perform tasks and being reclaimed by the main system.

But love is the most irrational thing in the world. Over the years, despite many systems not having a good ending, as far as she knew, there was even a senior at the SSS level who had been with their lover for a hundred thousand years.

Occasionally, that senior would go to other worlds for tasks, but after completing them, they would return to play and have fun with their lover, leading a leisurely life.

But such cases were still rare.

5874 was too young and her age wasn’t even a fraction of the senior’s. Even if the senior wishes for more long-term comrades, ultimately, it’s not her will that decides.

“Senior, I understand!”

To the senior’s surprise, 5874 nodded. “Don’t force anything, just go with the flow.”

After Qin Yiren’s period of sadness, she quickly picked herself up again and continued to live each day happily, carrying with her fond memories of Lu Weizheng.

When Xu Youyou closed her eyes before 5874, she was indeed very sad. But what Xu Youyou said was right, cherish the fate that has arrived, and make the most of every moment without wasting a single second.

When fate disperses, one should also remember the beautiful memories, and then…… continue to stride forward boldly!

“You’ve learned a lot in that world.” The senior nodded approvingly. “Maintain this mindset, 5874. I look forward to the day you reach SSS level.”

“I’ll definitely work hard!” 5874 suddenly raised her voice. “By the way, Senior, there’s something else I want to ask you.”

The senior smiled. “Go ahead, today I’m here to help you clear up any confusion.”

But this question involved too much. 5874 first sent her archive from the task world to the senior before asking.

“I’ve seen that most A-level tasks usually have around 1,500 points. Having a high target favorability indeed adds points, but……”

5874 initially lied, using Xu Youyou’s mother’s identity, who is a real human being, unlike just claiming to be a fairy or a monster.

Even if no one knew it was a lie, the detection program would still automatically deduct energy, points, and so on.

That’s also why 5874 didn’t want to lie in the first place. It’s just that at that time, she had no other choice. She didn’t want the task to fail from the beginning.

Later on, the identity of a mother did indeed bring many conveniences, but it was still a lie.

5874 originally thought she would receive around a thousand points, which would already be considered a lot. However, she ended up receiving 1,874 points, far exceeding expectations, almost doubling the initial estimate.

This was a question that no one in the task world could answer, and 5874 couldn’t figure it out on her own. In the end, she had to seek help from the senior.

After spending three seconds reviewing the entire task process, the senior’s rabbit ears twitched slightly, and her mouth opened once again, “5874, do you really not understand?”

“The only reason for such a high score is that the detection program didn’t recognize your lie.”

“And you should know the reason why it didn’t.”

The dough stood still for a moment, then slowly spread out and transformed into a flatbread.

5874 seemed to have understood something that shocked her.

The senior didn’t urge 5874 on, just continued to quietly and gently watch her with her colorful eyes.

“Yes, I should understand.”

After a long pause, 5874 finally spoke.

“The reason the lie didn’t hold up is because Youyou already knew I’m not her mother.”

And the reason for such a high score was the overwhelming favorability the target had towards the system.

Even though she knew 5874 wasn’t her mother, Xu Youyou still loved 5874 deeply.

Suddenly, two streams of clear water gushed out of the dough.

“Waaah, Senior! I miss Youyou so much!”

When Xu Youyou closed her eyes for the last time, 5874 didn’t cry.

When leaving the task world, where she had lived for nearly a hundred years, 5874 didn’t cry either.

But now, she suddenly burst into tears.

So, it’s not that the system couldn’t cry, it’s just that her suppressed longing…… finally overflowed at this moment.