The Edge of the Star Field

Operation Code

"Ten seconds later, you will automatically exit the virtual space. 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1..."

As the electronic countdown voice reached its final second, the entire virtual space was torn apart by an invisible force. In an instant, the surroundings began to disintegrate like fragments, scattering in all directions, transforming into countless dots and lines.

Like a torn canvas, everything disintegrated in this moment, leaving only a vast expanse of darkness.

...

When Lin Fan opened his eyes, the first thing that met his gaze was Ji Xuanwu's rugged smile. "Congratulations, Lin Fan, you have successfully completed the final training."

"Ah... Captain, did I pass?" His head felt a bit heavy, and his consciousness had not fully transitioned from the virtual space.

"Passed," Ji Xuanwu smiled. "Let's go; I'll take you to complete the certification procedures."

Lin Fan took off the virtual sensor helmet and stood up from the sofa.

...

Coming out of Room 13, the spaceship was getting closer to the coordinates of the target planet. Everyone was intensively training, and at this moment, the deserted corridor had no one in sight.

"Although you have passed all the training assessments, never be complacent. In real exploration activities, situations often go beyond conventional understanding. During each operation of the exploration team, you are facing a confrontation with death. A slight mistake may lead to a life-and-death crisis," Ji Xuanwu said in a low voice. "In past exploration missions, we often encountered extreme weather conditions, such as intense radiation or polar temperatures. And there may be unknown, aggressive extraterrestrial creatures."

"Of course, don't worry too much. How to avoid risks is my responsibility as the captain. You just need to do one thing—"

"That is, unconditionally obey my orders during exploration tasks," Ji Xuanwu solemnly stated.

Lin Fan nodded in agreement.

"What code name do you want to take?" Ji Xuanwu asked. "After completing all training courses, each member of the exploration team must choose a code name for themselves. Mine is Thunder, and Sarah's is Angel."

"Are there any special restrictions on choosing a code name?" Lin Fan couldn't help asking.

Ji Xuanwu shook his head. "Basically, it's based on personal preferences. Of course, there can't be duplicate code names."

Lin Fan nodded and began to contemplate.

"Have you decided?" Ji Xuanwu inquired.

"Well... let's go with 'Dangui'!" Lin Fan replied.

"Dangui? Dangui... should return." Ji Xuanwu recited a couple of lines, his eyes brightening. "This code name has a good implication. Now let's check if this name has been registered by someone else."

Under Ji Xuanwu's guidance, the two arrived at the end of the corridor on the 623rd floor. Several rooms were arranged there, with a sign in the middle saying "Archives."

"You're lucky; this code name hasn't been registered by anyone yet," Ji Xuanwu smiled. "So your operational code name is 'Dangui.' The other formalities can be processed shortly."

"Name: Lin Fan."

"Age: 17."

"Date of Birth: October 13, Lustrous Century 84."

"Family situation: Father Lin Zhanyun and mother Zhang Yaru, both employees of the 'External Operations Legion,' mysteriously disappeared during the exploration mission in Lustrous Century 94. At the age of 13, Lin Fan single-handedly raised his three-year-old sister. Sister Lin Xiaomin, now six years old, receives ten years of compulsory education at the school corresponding to the 72nd floor."

"Occupation: Member of the 'External Operations Legion Exploration Team.'"

"Operational code name: Dangui."

The certification procedures were quickly completed. From this moment on, Lin Fan not only had his own unique code name but also, due to the excellent completion of all training, received an increase in his remuneration. His basic monthly salary was raised to 2800 contribution points, only 200 points lower than Sarah.

Lin Fan was already thinking about indulging in a lavish consumption spree with Lin Xiaomin in the material supply market. Previously, the siblings relied on the inheritance and compensation from their parents, leading a tight life. But now, things had changed. With Lin Fan's monthly salary and the inclusive meal package from his job, they saved a considerable amount of expenses.

In the evening, Lin Fan, leading Lin Xiaomin, headed straight to the material supply market.

With a nouveau riche demeanor, regardless of whether Lin Xiaomin would use everything, he purchased many items for her, significantly reducing the accumulated contribution points in just one go. However, looking at Lin Xiaomin's genuinely happy smile, he felt it was all worth it.

...

The Noah's Ark was rapidly flying towards the coordinates. In the cold and dark universe, it seemed like a tiny ant crawling slowly on the dark ground, leaving behind a bright and shimmering trail.

Ceiling lights flickered, representing the passage of days.

Until today, a buzzing sound echoed through the spaceship. Subsequently, the spaceship slightly vibrated, and the lights in the corridors became brighter.

The spaceship had reached the target coordinates.

Three days earlier, all members of the exploration teams had received a notification. After the spaceship successfully docked at the coordinates, everyone needed to gather on the top floor immediately.

"Let's go!" Ji Xuanwu glanced briefly at Lin Fan and Sarah, then took the lead to walk outside.

Lin Fan and Sarah followed closely behind him, entering the elevator area together.

In the elevator, Ji Xuanwu immediately took out his electronic card, swiped it, and pressed the "700" floor button.

The 700th floor was the top floor of the "Noah's Ark" spaceship. Only authorized personnel could stay here, so apart from employees standing guard with weapons, it was rare to see outsiders here.

But today was different. Due to the upcoming exploration mission, the 700th floor was exceptionally lively.

The elevator ascended rapidly, taking only a few seconds to reach the 700th floor.

As soon as the elevator doors opened, armed staff approached to check the three people's electronic cards, fingerprints, and irises. After confirming everything was correct, they finally let them pass.

Exiting the elevator, what appeared before Lin Fan and the others was a spacious square. In the center of the square, a projection of a planet floated in mid-air, vividly displaying the land, ocean, and atmosphere of the planet like a beautiful painting.