Chapter 199: Ten Thousand Meters Under the Sea
In the morning, the research vessel reached the exploration point in the uncharted sea area. The diving team on board consisted of fifteen members, with Ji Shuiyao and Wang Haoran joining, bringing the total to seventeen. The group geared up for the dive, with plans to start collecting marine samples tomorrow if the area proved safe.
“Sixth Sister, this diving suit is for you,” Lin Chen, full of excitement, offered a specially chosen and modified diving suit.
“I have my customized diving suit, no need for another,” Ji Shuiyao declined initially.
“Sixth Sister, you should try this suit. I made some modifications and you’ll be pleasantly surprised underwater!” Lin Chen insisted mysteriously.
With Lin Chen’s known knack for surprises, Ji Shuiyao decided to try the suit, expecting something extraordinary. She changed into it in her cabin and joined the group on the deck.
“You’re not a professional diver. It’s better if you don’t dive,” Qiu Qianwei advised Wang Haoran with concern.
“Don’t worry, my diving skills are pretty good,” Wang Haoran reassured her with a smile.
He had spent 1300 villain points to acquire a master-level diving skill through the system mall. None of the professional divers onboard could match his abilities, and Lin Chen’s super diving suit provided further advantage.
“Just be careful, and come back immediately if something seems off,” Qiu Qianwei said, seeing his determination. She decided not to press further but felt compelled to remind him.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” Ji Shuiyao asked, wanting another confirmation.
“I’m sure. Don’t worry.”
“Alright then.” With his confident reply, Ji Shuiyao stopped questioning.
Once everyone was assembled and fully equipped, they entered the submarine, descending into the ocean depths. Upon reaching a certain level, the submarine stabilized, and the crew checked the sea pressure. With confirmation that it was safe for the diving suits, a searchlight was deployed to illuminate the aquatic scenery.
The underwater world unfurled majestically before them. Swarms of tiny fish moved like tides, some scattering, others gathering beneath, creating a stunning spectacle. Sea turtles drifted gracefully, while agile fish darted seamlessly. Various unknown fish appeared in extraordinary shapes and sizes, flat, round, and slender, each unique. Massive fish prowled with grandeur, alert to potential threats.
While the underwater scene was mesmerizing, it also held dangers. The seventeen divers made their exit from the submarine. Wang Haoran swam experimentally, feeling effortless with his master-level skills and Lin Chen’s super suit. Once out of sight, he explored the suit’s features and within minutes, he mastered it. The suit was nothing short of spectacular!
As he swam, Wang Haoran drifted to the sea’s greatest depths. The suit’s systems displayed data: 12,301 meters deep with a sea pressure exceeding 11,102 atmospheres—a pressure so immense it could crush a tank. Usually, humans can dive about 40 meters unaided, and with the best equipment, maybe 7,000 meters. Yet, this super suit remained unaffected and allowed rapid swimming akin to flight underwater.
In the pitch-black depths, akin to a starless universe, the suit’s sensors projected a schematic of his surroundings, identifying obstacles and creatures despite the lack of color.
“Number 17, Number 17, respond if you hear this,” Ji Shuiyao’s voice came through the underwater communicator. Number 17 was Wang Haoran’s code name for this mission.
“Received, Number 1, please proceed,” Wang Haoran answered.
“You’re not where you should be exploring!” Ji Shuiyao’s voice was stern.
“I’m near Area P. Returning to my assigned position now,” he reassured her.
Each diver was assigned a specific exploration area, Wang Haoran being responsible for Area P. The communicators tracked approximate positions within certain distances, which they exceeded, explaining Ji Shuiyao’s concern.
Acknowledging her message, Wang Haoran began his return. Suddenly, the super suit’s sensor detected a large life form approaching, measured at 20.6 meters in length, weighing about 76 tons, and with a bite force around 37 tons. Such gargantuan creatures were rare in the ocean; its shape revealed it as a shark!
Initially panicked, Wang Haoran quickly recalled the super suit’s capabilities—safe from harm unless encountering a creature with over 50 tons of bite force. Reassured of the suit’s protection, Wang Haoran observed as the shark swam speedily by, curious about the enormous creature. He used acceleration mode to follow.
The shark eventually settled at depths between 6,000 to 7,000 meters, lingered briefly near searchlights, then retreated to the abyss. Likely drawn by the lights, its behavior intrigued Wang Haoran.
Before he could ponder further, Ji Shuiyao’s voice returned, inquiring if everyone had completed their exploration. With many affirming, Wang Haoran returned to regroup with the team.