C6 Chaotic Space, Osmistan
When Urlan disclosed the location of the gene potion in Moskieso, he inadvertently exposed his own abilities.
He had a moment of hesitation before doing so, but ultimately, he decided to take the risk.
As Osmistan struggled and faltered within the Chaotic Space, falling behind other nations, the countries already antagonistic toward Osmistan grew increasingly bold and brash.
Mocking Osmistan in their live broadcast room was just the tip of the iceberg; many nations were already outstripping Osmistan in science and economics.
Seeing those online taunts and news articles, Urlan seethed with anger. Previously, he could only rage impotently, but now, having been chosen to enter the Chaotic Space and having awakened his system, he was determined to clap back with a vengeance.
Osmistan would not be dishonored!
Uncertain if he could escape or how much time he had left, Urlan resolved that even if he had just one day remaining, he would deliver a resounding slap to those contemptible fools.
Urlan also harbored a personal agenda: to clear a path for his brother Tommy, his fellow orphanage companion.
"Little brother, from here on out, the path is yours to walk," Urlan mused before exiting the restroom.
As he hurried downstairs, Urlan inquired, "What exactly is the origin of this Chaotic Space?"
"Information: This space is a projection at the intersection of parallel dimensions, reinforced and fortified by an advanced civilization to serve as a training ground for the advancement of lower civilizations. While risky for these civilizations, the potential for opportunities and rewards is great, and it may even prove pivotal for some to break through their limitations."
"Information: Take your home, Blue Star, for example. With its burgeoning population, dwindling resources, and deteriorating environment, global efforts persist yet fail to fully address these issues. The trial field, or Chaotic Space as you call it, represents a chance to overcome these challenges."
"Do I have a chance to get out?" Urlan asked, nodding slightly.
"Information: Certainly, there's a chance. Surpass the constraints of this space with your strength, or navigate its rules to find a way through!"
It seemed the former was a distant prospect, so adhering to the space's rules was the only viable option.
When Urlan reappeared on the live broadcast screen, the viewers in the chat room buzzed with excitement.
"Did Urlan just sort out some internal strife?"
"Wow, that took a while. Did he take a moment to console himself too?"
"Seriously, after offing a zombie, a little self-consolation for the soul is in order!"
"His complexion is a bit pale; maybe it wasn't just once. He had enough time, after all!"
"Can you guys focus on something wholesome for a change?"
"Ha, the feeble Osmistanis have finally surfaced. There's a saying, 'You can run but you can't hide forever!'"
"Exactly. Look at us in Moskieso—we've been thriving in the Chaotic Space for over a month, snagging loads of high-tier loot like the famous gene potion. You Osmistanis haven't managed to snag anything yet, have you?"
"Wait, my bad, you did snag a crystal nucleus. Have you managed to find that tiny thing back in the real world?"
"Osmistan prides itself on its vast lands, right? Bet you're stumped now. That tiny crystal nucleus could be anywhere in your 9.6 million square kilometers, or even out in the expansive ocean. Good luck finding it now!"
As the Moskieso's taunts flooded the chat, the viewers felt helpless; the broadcast was beyond their control, lacking even a mute button.
In the chaotic office, Nicole spoke up with dissatisfaction, "Director, should we announce that we've located the crystal nucleus?"
The news of the discovery was already known to everyone in the office.
Naturally, Ollie hadn't divulged the details of the find.
Without a moment's hesitation, Ollie instructed, "Go ahead and announce it. Say that through the collective efforts of our nation, we've swiftly located the crystal nucleus and have already commenced research!"
"Yes!" Nicole responded, clearly delighted.
After a brief contemplation, Ollie sent a private message to Urlan.
"Urlan, I'm going to publicly state that the crystal nucleus was found thanks to our nation's collective effort. Your name won't be mentioned, but rest assured, you'll be duly rewarded. Any objections?"
Urlan read the message silently; in the live broadcast room, he could receive text messages but could only respond verbally.
In essence, those who entered the Chaotic Space were limited to voice input.
Speaking publicly could expose sensitive information, hence the need for discretion.
Urlan flashed a smile at the camera and, for the first time in the live broadcast, he spoke up: "Psh, Moskieso's brats, think Osmistan can't find a mere crystal nucleus when we stand united? You should be more worried about your last gene potion. Such a tiny area and you still can't find it? Just how incompetent are you?"
The live stream fell silent for a moment before erupting into a frenzy of excitement.
"Damn, Urlan just blew my mind with that move!"
"Urlan nailed it. That clapback was so damn satisfying!"
"He's so young, yet so sharp-tongued? I'm here for it, though!"
"Keep talking tough. Let's see if you can actually locate that crystal nucleus!"
Witnessing Urlan's response, Ollie grasped his stance. With a decisive gesture, Osmistan's chaotic office issued a statement.
"Our nation has located the First Level zombie crystal nucleus just an hour ago and has transported it to the lab for study. This triumph isn't for one individual; it's a victory for all citizens of Osmistan!"
The announcement set the internet ablaze.
Consider that nearly a thousand people have ventured into the Chaotic Space, amassing an immeasurable haul.
Mostly, it's been food and some rudimentary weapons, hardly making a dent in the real world.
Yet, no nation has managed to uncover these items so swiftly and deliver them straight to the authorities!
Even in the most liberal of lands, those lucky enough to snag items from the Chaotic Space wouldn't dream of surrendering them to the state.
And that's not even touching on the myriad of items still undiscovered.
"The Chaotic Department is killing it – they're slapping faces left and right!"
"Hey, kiddo, see that? Your grandpa's still the boss! No denying it!"
"When it comes to action and discipline, Osmistan is unmatched!"
"Alas, I'm not a scholar, but a single badass phrase takes me everywhere!"
"Osmistan rocks!"
And the foreigners? Utterly astounded.
"How quickly did Urlan get his hands on the crystal nucleus, and they've already found it?"
"Exactly, how is that even possible? Our country has only eight crystal nuclei to date, with seven still missing."
"It's mind-blowing. Is this the legendary speed of Osmistan?"