Earth’s Redemption: Chapter 22

Chapter 22: The Legions’ Best Selection

Proofread by Cloud Chip Cake

When Zuo Qingcang and the remaining group emerged, Luo Xiang and the others had already cleared the levels and were waiting outside.

“This time, we all made it!” Mo Xiaoyu waved excitedly at them. “Though a few guys got injured, we can treat them once we get out. Our success rate for this run… even if it’s not unprecedented, is definitely unmatched!”

Seeing his master return, Xiao Xin immediately ran over, rubbing against him affectionately.

Ning Buwen was naturally in high spirits—after all, his victory had been decisive.

Black Cloak had disappeared entirely in the end.

Too bad he didn’t have any other facial features. Otherwise, his expression would’ve been priceless.

“We can prepare to leave,” Luo Xiang pointed to the neatly arranged Pandora Boxes nearby. “Everyone take one. We’ll meet in the real world after our evaluations are done.”

“Got it.”

“Okay.”

“See you soon.”

“Haha, it’s just for a short while.”

“Hope the fish customer service gives me extra points for my injuries.”

…

As everyone chatted, they all turned to look at Ning Buwen.

“Why are you all looking at me?” Ning Buwen asked, puzzled.

“There’s no need for grand words of thanks, but we aren’t ungrateful. If you ever need our help in the future, just ask.”

“Yeah, same here.”

“Even though you might not need our help, Boss…”

“And me too…”

…

“Alright, alright,” Ning Buwen waved his hand. “It’s late. Why are we saying all this now? Just transfer 10,000 yuan to my account when we get back.”

“Only 10,000?”

“For now, that’s enough.” Ning Buwen thought for a moment and decided against being greedy.

These people weren’t bad. There might be opportunities to work together in the future. He wasn’t foolish enough to drain them dry all at once—better to play the long game.

Ten thousand was just right—pocket change to them, something they wouldn’t mind.

Hmm, with that, Xiao Xin’s dog food expenses are covered.

What a great master I am, still thinking about my dog at a time like this.

After some more small talk, everyone jumped into their respective Pandora Boxes.

Zuo Qingcang gave Ning Buwen a deep look but said nothing.

It was said that during every Legion selection, there was always one standout. He had thought it would be him or Luo Xiang, but it turned out to be Ning Buwen.

Even after clearing such a difficult level, Ning Buwen showed no signs of exhaustion. His true strength remained a mystery, making it hard to believe he was just a newcomer fresh from his first instance.

Being in the same selection batch as Ning Buwen was both a blessing and a curse.

With him, they passed the group selection with only one casualty. But because of him, they might forever be overshadowed, destined to live in his shadow.

Still, for the Legion and for Earth, wasn’t this a good thing?

Ning Buwen, holding Xiao Xin, reappeared under a clear blue sky.

“Congratulations, player, on successfully clearing the level. Due to your outstanding performance, your evaluation in the last instance is B+, and you still have three chances to draw item cards. If you’re lucky, you might draw a card to enhance yourself with a special physique!” The customer service fish was the same one from his first instance.

Previously, Xiao Xin had been swatted by a fish tail while pouncing. Although it wasn’t the same fish, the dog still had lingering trauma and timidly clung to Ning Buwen’s leg, not daring to get closer.

Cowardly dog!

Ning Buwen felt both amused and exasperated.

Many players believed that drawing item cards was all about “mysticism.”

If you told the customer service fish what type of card you wanted, sometimes you really would get it.

Ning Buwen didn’t believe in that. He believed in his ability.

“Just give me escape and healing-type cards as usual.” He tossed his dice.

Upgrading his personal physique? Forget it. Things are fine as they are. Who knows what might happen if the dice keep upgrading?

The dice landed on an 82.

In the end, he drew an Escape Card, a talisman, and a Sleep Card.

“An Escape Card makes sense, but what are the other two?” Ning Buwen frowned at the three cards in his hand.

The talisman looked utterly ordinary, like those one-yuan charms sold at the beginning of the apocalypse.

Back when the Legions weren’t strong enough to stabilize the country, religious power had a brief resurgence, and talismans were everywhere. But once the Legion’s foundation was solid, every single religious leader was thrown into prison.

“Our friendly suggestion: Don’t sell the last two cards,” the customer service fish leaped gracefully from the water. “This talisman is useful in supernatural instances, capable of inflicting mental attacks on ghosts. The Sleep Card can be used in any world, with a two-kilometer range, and though it’s a one-time use, it puts everyone to sleep for thirty minutes—a rare large-scale item card.”

Ning Buwen wasn’t unreasonable. As soon as the NPC explained, he understood that those two cards would definitely help him clear future games more smoothly.

“Got it. You can send me out now,” Ning Buwen nodded.

“See you next time,” the fish NPC said, flicking its tail.

In no time, the man and dog reappeared on the training field at the Legion’s base.

Most people had already received their personal evaluations and rewards, now just waiting for the Legions’ selection process to begin. Judging by their happy faces, their evaluations must have been decent.

The moment Ning Buwen appeared, he could feel the Legion representatives’ gazes fly toward him like daggers.

This probably isn’t about me.

It’s definitely because of Cheng Yuxue!

Ning Buwen had a very clear understanding of himself.

“Don’t make it so obvious. Haven’t you noticed the newcomer looking at us strangely?” The First Legion’s representative used a group communication item card to remind the others to maintain their composure.

The Legion representatives quickly withdrew their gazes.

Right, they were just curious.

After all, it’s rare to see someone with such terrible luck and poor judgment.

“Congratulations on successfully passing the trial,” The First Legion’s representative began clapping. “What pleases me more than your skills is seeing your emerging sense of teamwork.”

Nothing made them happier than seeing the group work together to clear the trial.

“Next, those whose names are called, step forward. We will briefly evaluate your performance. If any Legion representative raises their hand to invite you, you can choose the Legion you prefer. Don’t worry about which Legion invited you to take the exam—you’re free to choose whichever you like,” The First Legion’s said with a gentle smile.

The newcomers began whispering among themselves, surprised that they had the right to choose.

“Becoming a Legion member is just another career, though a unique one,” The First Legion’s representative continued, unfazed by their reactions. “We value freedom within the bounds of rules. If you receive multiple invitations and can’t decide, feel free to ask the representatives questions. That way, you’ll find the Legion best suited for you.”

“It’s getting late, so let’s begin.” With that, the First Legion’s representative handed the rest of the task to the Fifth Legion’s representative.

The Fifth Legion’s representative was a sweet-smiling young woman.

She looked harmless, but no one underestimated her.

These days, judging someone by their appearance was a surefire way to get yourself killed.

“No need to rush, one at a time,” The Fifth Legion’s representative said in a soft Jiangnan accent, her voice gentle and sweet.

Several nearby representatives silently rolled their eyes.

Every time new recruits appeared, the Fifth Legion’s representative would play the soft, sweet girl.

Yet with her enhanced strength, she could crush anyone in her way.

It must be exhausting for her to keep her voice that soft.

Luo Xiang’s eyes lit up when she saw the Fifth Legion’s representative.

“You know her?” Ning Buwen stood with Luo Xiang, Mo Xiaoyou, and Zuo Qingcang. Mo Xiaoyou, being self-aware, stepped back slightly, trying to avoid the overwhelming aura of these three high-IQ monsters.

Comparison between people is infuriating.  

How he missed his old self.  

Ignorance truly was bliss.  

“Yes, I do.” Luo Xiang’s eyes carried a hint of admiration. “A year ago, before I was chosen by Pandora, I saw her once. The Judge tracked down the mastermind of a series of explosions. The culprit had escaped to our area, and it was this Fifth Legion representative who handled all the explosions alone. She was unbelievably cool.”  

Ning Buwen recalled the case.  

“She’s the Reinforced Queen from the Fifth Legion?” Many top-tier Legion members preferred to keep their identities secret, so often only their titles were known. It wasn’t uncommon for people to recognize a name but not the person.  

The Fifth Legion was mainly composed of superhuman players, and the Reinforced Queen was one of their best.  

It was said she could rival a player from the Third Legion, who could transform into a giant, in terms of raw strength!  

A true superwoman of the apocalypse.  

Also a prime example of a superhuman.  

“So, are you aiming for the Fifth Legion?”  

“I’m not a superhuman type,” Luo Xiang said regretfully. “I admire the Fifth Legion, but I know which one suits me best.”  

Ning Buwen wanted to ask which Legion Luo Xiang had her sights on, given she didn’t seem too interested in the First.  

Before he could, her name was called.  

“Luo Xiang, recommended by the First Legion.” The Fifth Legion’s representative flashed her a sweet smile. “In this game instance, you showed generosity, courage, and wisdom. Although your insight into people’s minds is slightly lacking, you quickly stabilized everyone’s emotions during moments of panic. You used a variety of item cards without overly relying on them. Our comprehensive evaluation of you in this instance is an A.”  

“Thank you, representatives. But the credit for clearing the instance isn’t mine alone—it’s because everyone trusted me.” Luo Xiang, who had seemed composed moments ago, became flustered under the praise.  

Her reaction was understandable.  

After all, the compliments came from a representative of the Forty-Nine Legions. Even knowing some of the praise was meant to encourage, who wouldn’t enjoy hearing their idols speak well of them?  

“Those who wish to invite Luo Xiang, please raise your hand,” The Fifth Legion’s representative announced.  

Immediately, hands shot up.  

Of the top 10 Legions, all raised their hands except for the 2nd, 5th, and 9th. The representatives from the lower-ranked Legions also joined in, hoping for a slim chance.  

“Wow, 40 Legions raised their hands!” Mo Xiaoyou couldn’t help but marvel. In past recruitment rounds, if more than 30 Legions showed interest, it was a big deal.  

“She deserves it.”  

Zuo Qingcang and Ning Buwen said in unison.  

Luo Xiang stood still for a moment before bowing deeply to the First Legion’s representative. “I’m very grateful for the First Legion’s recommendation, but I’ve made up my mind. My personal traits align with the magical category. The Third Legion specializes in magic, which better suits my development. So, I choose the Third Legion.”  

“Well done, and we appreciate the First Legion for discovering you,” the Third Legion’s representative said, clearly pleased. “From now on, you’re one of us. Come stand with me.”  

What luck!  

They’d landed a top talent.  

“Thank you so much.”  

Luo Xiang bowed sincerely again before moving to stand behind the Third Legion’s representative.  

“Next, Ren Liang.”  

Ren Liang received nine invitations and chose the Twenty Sixth Legion.  

…  

“Mo Xiaoyou.”  

“My turn.” Mo Xiaoyou scratched his head, looking a little dejected. “I screwed up—I didn’t perform nearly as well as I should have. I wonder if any Legions still want me?” 

“Relax, I think your abilities are quite rare,” Ning Buwen offered a word of comfort. “There’s no way no one will raise their hand.”

Your comforting skills are worse than no comfort at all.  

Mo Xiaoyou silently grumbled to himself.  

“The abilities you displayed in the game are intriguing—a rare, unique type. You excel in close combat, compensating for your intellectual shortcomings with your physical traits. A rare combination of brains and brawn… Your evaluation is A-.”  

As Mo Xiaoyou listened to the praise, his furrowed brows gradually relaxed.  

“However, you should maintain a calm demeanor in the future. Always remember, there’s always someone better.”  

Mo Xiaoyou coughed awkwardly, aware that he had been a bit too flashy earlier, only to be put in his place during the game instance.  

“Those who wish to invite Mo Xiaoyou to their Legion, please raise your hand.”  

Around 30 Legions raised their hands.  

Even half of the top 10 Legions raised theirs.  

Mo Xiaoyou was overjoyed, never expecting that despite his poor performance, so many still recognized his strengths. It proved that true talent always shines.  

Maybe his performance wasn’t that bad. He was just a little slower than the people around him—but he still caught on quickly.  

Mo Xiaoyou chose the Fifth Legion.  

That was exactly where he wanted to be.  

…  

“Zuo Qingcang.”  

After several more names were called, it was finally time for another top performer.  

Typically, participants received about ten invitations, even the worst performers received at least eight, so everyone still had options.  

But when the crowd had all found their desired Legions, they couldn’t help but look forward to something extraordinary.  

Like Luo Xiang, who had received over 40 invitations.  

Such praise was rare, though.  

Yet Zuo Qingcang was undoubtedly one of those rare few.  

“You are composed and calm yet unwavering in your principles. Your dedication to justice has impressed us all. You protected your companions without fear of death, and your performance exceeded our expectations. Your evaluation is A.”  

“Now, those who wish to invite Zuo Qingcang, please raise your hand,” The Fifth Legion’s representative announced as she raised her own.  

Even the Second Legion raised their hand this time.  

One by one, hands shot up.  

Unanimous!  

A unanimous invitation!  

The room fell silent before erupting into cheers, with Luo Xiang’s voice being the loudest.  

“Lao Zuo, well done!”  

“Zuo Ge, take me with you!”  

“Remember to treat us to a meal!”  

“Mom, I’m so jealous!”  

…  

Even Ning Buwen couldn’t help but applaud.  

While Zuo Qingcang’s strength alone might not have earned him a unanimous vote, his commitment to justice was a rarity in the apocalypse.  

When people gained powers beyond their own, when long-cherished dreams were within reach, and once-ordinary things became precious, people’s mindsets shifted drastically.  

With nations no longer existing, the spirit of the rule of law seemed a distant memory.  

But Zuo Qingcang had it.  

That was why he earned unanimous support.  

“I’ve always been the type people find annoying. I never thought I’d become popular in this world,” Zuo Qingcang said, his eyes reddening. “I’m serious in everything I do, hate half-measures, and want to contribute to society. In the future, I hope to serve more. I choose the First Legion. Thank you to the Third Legion for the invitation.”  

The First Legion’s representative was pleased. “You stole one from us, so it’s only fair we take one from you.”  

“With his personality, he fits your Legion better,” the Third Legion’s representative said, scratching his head. “But I still think Luo Xiang is better.”  

“Not at all,” Luo Xiang said, a little embarrassed.  

“It’s just that the amusement park instance didn’t suit your personal traits,” The Third Legion’s representative observed. “Otherwise, you’d have received unanimous invitations too.”  

Luo Xiang didn’t mind. Joining the Legion she liked made her happier than anything else.  

Several more names were called.  

Soon, only one person remained.  

Ning Buwen.  

“Ning Ge will definitely get unanimous invitations too.”  

“I’m more curious about which Legion he’ll choose. Just because a Legion recommends you doesn’t mean you have to join.”  

“No idea what his unique trait is, though.”  

…  

“Ning Buwen.” The Fifth Legion’s representative practically dragged out the name. “Your brilliance is astonishing. In terms of luck, intellect, courage, and ability, you excel in every aspect. So much so that it’s hard to believe you’re a newcomer. After careful consideration, we award you an S.”  

“Wow! S is the highest rating, right?”  

“They praised him even more than Zuo Ge.”  

“But he really is amazing. Out of seven stages, he cleared three on his own. Without him, who knows if we’d have survived.”  

“When we get back, I’m printing out his picture.”  

“What for?”  

“As a lucky charm! Maybe praying to it before an instance will boost my IQ.”  

“…As long as you’re happy.”  

Ning Buwen calmly accepted the praise, maintaining a peaceful smile.  

He was used to grand scenes like this. 

“Ning Ge really has the demeanor of a true boss. If I were praised like that, I might have jumped up in excitement.”

“Stay calm.”

After finishing his praise, the Fifth Legion’s representative smiled warmly. “Now, those who wish to invite Ning Buwen to join their Legion, please raise your hand.”

With such praise, it was bound to be a unanimous invitation.

Luo Xiang and Zuo Qingcang were already preparing to clap.

Only Mo Xiaoyou looked awkward, his thoughts diverging from the others—because he knew who Cheng Yuxue was.

“Why isn’t anyone raising their hand?”

“Representative, why aren’t you raising your hand?” a newcomer urged their representative.

The prodded representative gazed up at the artificial sky, suddenly finding it quite beautiful.

“He’s ours,” said the Second Legion’s representative, the only one to raise their hand.

From start to finish, the Second Legion’s representative had only raised a hand for Zuo Qingcang and Ning Buwen.

The other Legions remained motionless, creating a rather awkward scene.

“Representative, don’t you think Ning Buwen is worth it?” Luo Xiang couldn’t help but ask. “Even without a unique trait, he absolutely deserves a unanimous invitation.”

“He’s incredible. In all my years recruiting, I’ve rarely seen anyone better,” the Third Legion’s representative admitted honestly.

“Then why didn’t you raise your hand? Even if the Second Legion has dibs, you know the number of invitations is an important metric for future growth,” Luo Xiang fumed.

Recruitment results wouldn’t be made public to ensure fairness. With only one invitation, outsiders wouldn’t know how outstanding Ning Buwen was—completely unfair to him.

“Do you think I don’t want to recruit him?” The Third Legion’s representative sighed. “I can guarantee he’s worthy of unanimous invitation based on sheer strength. But our ‘temple’ is too small to house such a ‘great Buddha.’”

A mere rookie too big for the Third Legion?

Luo Xiang, who had joined the Third Legion, knew their strength well.

The rankings changed yearly, and Third Legion had been No. 1 just last year.

“Is it because of that person looking for Ning Buwen?” Luo Xiang quickly grasped the key point. “Just because of him?”

“You’ll understand later. No matter how talented Ning Buwen is, no Legion except the second would dare recruit him. The First Legion carries the weight of all the Legions’ performance evaluations, making it even more impossible.”

Only the Second Legion could barely withstand that lunatic.

“I choose the Second Legion,” Ning Buwen said, knowing he had no real choice.

Every gain comes with a cost.

Eating the fruit Cheng Yuxue offered meant bearing the consequences.

It only made him more aware of Cheng Yuxue’s power.

“Ning Buwen.” The First Legion’s representative stood and led the applause. “Thank you. Your presence helped us break records for clearance and survival rates during this recruitment.”

It did seem that way.

“So, let’s vote again,” the First Legion’s representative said with a smile.

“Ahem. Representatives, those willing to invite Ning Buwen, please raise your hands.”

Swoosh.

This time, all the representatives raised their hands.

A unanimous invitation!

The newcomers were utterly confused. What was going on?

“Representative, why are you raising your hand now?”

“The first time, we were afraid he might choose us. Now that he’s picked the Second Legion, we can vote freely.”

The biggest crisis had passed, so now they could vote as they truly wished.

The room echoed with applause, wave after wave.

“A single vote can be so nerve-wracking—it scared me to death,” Luo Xiang said, clutching her chest, overwhelmed.

“Bosses get different treatment,” Mo Xiaoyou sighed in relief. Too bad he couldn’t share this story—it would’ve become a legendary tale online.

This twist-filled scene was like a movie, with Ning Buwen undoubtedly the protagonist.

“Incredible—two invitations!”

“That treatment, as expected from Ning Buwen.”

“I feel like I just witnessed something historic…”

“I need to calm down. My heart can’t take it.”

…

The representatives looked at Ning Buwen with deep gratitude.

Thank you for saving these newcomers.

More importantly, thank you for catching Cheng Yuxue’s interest.

For some reason, Ning Buwen felt like a living Bodhisattva, saving the suffering.

At that moment, he had only one thought:

Look at how Cheng Yuxue has driven them all to this point.

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