“That fantasy is… quite interesting,” Ruan Xiwen said, adjusting his glasses, “but as a journalist, shouldn’t you record facts? To interview for such a thing, isn’t that nonsense?” “No, I just…” “I’m quite disappointed in you, Mr. Duo. Let’s end it here today. I’ve told you everything I know; I have work to do. Please leave.” Ruan Xiwen stood up, his face resolute. “As we’ve met, let me give you a piece of advice: Mr. Journalist, be realistic. Your profession shouldn’t allow for all sorts of fantasies; that’s irresponsible to society.” Ruan Xiwen warned me bluntly before I left.
I hadn’t expected such a strong reaction to the mention of underwater people, which undoubtedly indicated their connection to this archaeological event. This brought me back to the starting point: underwater people, cats, cockroaches, the site, and now, worms. Although I didn’t get any useful leads from Ruan Xiwen, there was still some gain. But it was clear Ruan Xiwen would no longer give me any chance to get close to him.
After leaving the hotel, I pondered deeply. Back home in the evening, I redrew a chart of clues to clarify my thoughts. Here are the clues related to this event:
