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QQ was a foundational part of digital life for Lin Xian’s generation from elementary through middle school. Back in the ’80s, early internet users secured QQ numbers consisting of just eight digits. Was it just a coincidence that the vault in his dreams used a similar code? It seemed highly unlikely.

While lost in these thoughts, Gao Yang waved his hand in front of Lin Xian, breaking his concentration. “Hey, what’s up with you? You’ve zoned out. What are you mumbling about?”

Lin Xian brushed it off with a quick shake of his head, reaching for his wine glass. “It’s nothing, really. Let’s just focus on our meal.”

After dinner, they went their separate ways. Gao Yang opened a taxi door for Lin Xian, saying, “Looks like we’re heading in different directions. Take care of yourself.”

Lin Xian nodded, settling into the taxi and rolling down the window to wave. “See you soon.”

As Gao Yang flicked away his cigarette, he gripped Lin Xian’s hand firmly. “Let me know when you wake up from that dream. If it’s all just a dream, I’ll stop worrying.”

“Sure, see you,” Lin Xian responded, somewhat distracted.

Home by eight, Lin Xian had time to ponder Dr. Liu’s hypothesis further. A refreshing shower helped him think clearer, reinforcing his belief that he had previously met CC, or at least heard his voice, even if his conscious mind had forgotten. Gao Yang was right; his subconscious was indeed trying to remember through his dreams.

While showering, Lin Xian hatched a plan to confront CC:

He would need to isolate Big Cat Face. With fewer participants, the plan would simplify—too many would only complicate matters. CC was known for being cautious; without leverage, revealing his identity prematurely was too risky. The best approach would be to disguise himself as Big Cat Face, luring CC into the robbery and maintaining the deception. Recognizing each other by masks rather than faces would keep his true identity safe. Quick action to neutralize Big Cat Face would ensure his cover remained unblown. Inside the vault, he could then compel CC to reveal herself by using the correct code.

Reflecting on his past experiences with disguises, from an Ultraman mask to now a Rhine Cat mask, Lin Xian marveled at his evolving mastery over deception. “Life sure is unpredictable,” he mused aloud.

The essence of his plan relied on the fact that Big Cat Face and CC didn’t truly know each other—they didn’t even know their real names. Their relationship was based on temporary convenience, likely filled with plans of mutual betrayal. This lack of familiarity would allow Lin Xian to manipulate them both with just his mask.

Settling into bed, Lin Xian resolved, “Tonight, this story ends.”

He closed his eyes, slipping into sleep, but was soon greeted by a dry summer breeze—an abrupt change from the chill he felt post-shower. Glancing at a nearby electronic billboard, the time read 21:11.

Neither Big Cat Face nor CC was expected until about 10 PM, based on previous encounters. Time was short.

Noticing a police kiosk nearby, manned by two officers, Lin Xian recognized the usual police gear—batons, stun guns, riot shields. Though he wasn’t sure of the official terms, their uses were familiar from his dreams.

Approaching the kiosk, he prepared his story. “Officers, urgent help needed! That man over there,” he pointed to the figure emerging from a van wearing a Rhine Cat mask, “just stole my mask!”

The officer chuckled dismissively. “Seems minor, but we’ll handle it.”

“But he has a gun!” Lin Xian blurted out, adding urgency.

The officer’s demeanor instantly changed, radioing for backup as they cautiously approached Big Cat Face. “Freeze! Hands where I can see them!”

Within moments, Big Cat Face was subdued, and Lin Xian, escorted by another officer, watched as they uncovered a gun and C4 explosives. “This is serious; stay down while we get more help,” the officer ordered, now fully alert.

Lin Xian, witnessing the swift escalation, asked quietly, “Can I get my mask back?”

The officer yanked the Rhine Cat mask from the arrested suspect and tossed it to Lin Xian. As Big Cat Face began to protest, a black hood muffled his objections.

Mask in hand, Lin Xian whispered, “Key item acquired.”

Pulling the mask over his face, he adjusted it for a snug fit. “From this moment on, I am Big Cat Face.”