novelraw Chapter 308: Traces of Dampness, 【Performance Fruit】
Chapter 308: Traces of Dampness, 【Performance Fruit】
“Night falls, close your eyes.”
“Werewolves, open your eyes.”
...
“Day breaks.”
“F***! Why is it always me who gets killed?”
“I’m the Seer! Trust me. Xiao Hao and Tang Song—they’re both werewolves! Just vote them out!”
...
The Windrush Motorcycle Club buzzed with a lively and festive atmosphere.
After a good session of pool and Werewolf, Tang Song stood up from his seat. He walked over to the bar, opened a can of lychee-flavored Zhenzhen soda, and took a few gulps. Leaning against a high stool, he gazed leisurely out of the window.
Nestled near a scenic area, the club was surrounded by stunning landscapes and fresh air. Occasionally, birds could be seen circling gracefully in the sky.Beyond the light-tinted glass, Cheng Qiuqiu and Molly were sitting under a sycamore tree, chatting. Cheng Qiuqiu, holding a guitar, strummed a few notes now and then, her expression full of excitement.
Tang Song admired the scene for a moment, appreciating the charm of the lively, captivating girl. Tossing his empty can into the trash, he strolled outside.
Hearing footsteps, the two women looked up simultaneously.
Seeing him, Molly quickly stood and greeted him sweetly. Then, with a playful grin, she said, “Heartthrob, I added you on WeChat in the group. Can I get some face time?”
“Sure!” Tang Song snapped his fingers, coolly granting the request.
Her delighted address was too flattering to refuse.
“Yay! Thanks, Heartthrob! Seriously, I’ve become your fan. Your guitar playing is amazing, and your singing is absolutely stunning—I’m obsessed!” Molly chirped as she hugged his arm excitedly. She even dared to snuggle briefly before leaving contentedly. “Anyway, I’ll head to the bar for some water. You two chat away!”
Molly’s perceptive departure prompted Tang Song to pull out his phone and approve her friend request.
Cheng Qiuqiu nodded in greeting while holding her guitar. Suddenly remembering something, she brightened up and said, “Su Yu just posted a snippet of a new song on the fan forum—it’s her latest composition, and it’s amazing!”
“Oh? Let me hear it.”
Qiuqiu nodded, retrieved her phone from a chair, and hit play.
The demo was short, barely a minute long.
“Su Yu’s songs always reflect her mood. It’s obvious she’s incredibly happy right now. But online, people are speculating again about her mysterious lover,” Qiuqiu remarked. Her usually aloof demeanor softened, and her eyes gleamed with enthusiasm as she spoke of her idol.
Tang Song listened to the clip several times before smiling and reaching out. “Mind if I borrow your guitar?”
“Sure!” Qiuqiu’s eyes lit up, and she eagerly handed it over.
She had wanted to hear Tang Song’s take on the melody and was elated by the chance.
Tang Song casually sat on a wooden chair, his fingers lightly brushing the strings. Soon, a lively and melodious tune resonated through the lush courtyard.
The melody was cheerful and brimming with affection, reminiscent of romance.
The gloomy sky cleared gradually, and golden sunlight filtered through the heavy clouds, casting dappled shadows on the ground.
Watching Tang Song’s confident and carefree figure under the sycamore tree, strumming the guitar, Qiuqiu’s eyes sparkled with admiration and delight.
Tang Song’s guitar skills, she thought, were professional-level. Combined with his striking appearance, far superior to her high school friend Xu An, he could debut as an artist on the spot and undoubtedly gain massive popularity.
As the guitar melody ended, Tang Song placed the instrument on the chair and stood, looking at Qiuqiu.
Standing so close, he caught the faint, clean scent on her—an intoxicating mix of body wash, lotion, and laundry detergent.
Qiuqiu’s gaze darted away, her expression slightly awkward.
Tang Song chuckled. “I need your help with something. Are you free now?”
“What is it?”
“The sky looks beautiful right now. I’m heading to the Hutuo River to shoot a short video. Can you hold the camera for me?”
“Of course.” Qiuqiu agreed instantly. Helping out a friend was perfectly reasonable.
“Let’s go then. I’ll take you on my bike,” Tang Song said, gesturing toward the parking lot.
Qiuqiu hesitated briefly. “I think I’ll ride my own bike. It’s safer that way.”
Having never ridden with another guy before, she felt uncomfortable with the idea of such close contact.
“It’s fine; it’s just a short ride to the river,” Tang Song replied, pulling out his keys and jingling them. “I heard you like the double-R. How about this—you drive me?”
He winked playfully, his suggestion lighthearted but intriguing.
Qiuqiu’s face turned crimson. After a moment of silence, she stammered, “Then… I guess you can take me.”
Walking along the clean stone path, they arrived at the parking area.
Tang Song mounted his bike skillfully, started the engine, and turned to her. “Hop on, QQ.”
With her helmet securely fastened, Qiuqiu hesitated but eventually climbed onto the rear seat. She tentatively placed her hands on the fuel tank, keeping a cautious distance from him.
“Vroom vroom—”
With smooth acceleration and shifting, the BMW double-R sped out of the club gates.
...
Watching the duo vanish from sight, Liu Wenning, seated by the window, clenched his fists tightly, his frustration boiling over.
Grinding his teeth, he stomped the ground and muttered venomously, “That son of a b****. So what if he’s rich? Deliberately messing with me, making my life hell, f***!”
Next to him, Zhou Dongbing whispered, “Wenning, all five gigs are done. How about we call it a day? I’ll keep you company tonight, and we can chat it out.”
Zhou Dongbing, once brash and foul-mouthed, had mellowed considerably after a stint in detention. Given his previous job at Li Junyi’s nightclub, he was particularly well-behaved today.
His thinking was simple—if you can’t win, avoid conflict. As long as the money rolls in, it’s all good. Complaints could always wait for private moments.
Exhaling heavily, Liu Wenning’s expression shifted as he suddenly declared, “Dongbing, let’s disband the White Knights Band. I’m done with commercial gigs.”
“What? Why, Wenning?” Zhou Dongbing’s face darkened, and he hastily tried to dissuade him. “Things are going well as they are!”
Besides Cheng Qiuqiu, the Other Three Were Longtime Friends
Liu Wenning had been the most successful among them, boasting a significant following and frequently landing gigs as a resident performer.
Molly, on the other hand, hadn’t been as lucky.
The formation of their temporary band was a way to earn some side income and alleviate financial stress.
Liu Wenning pursed his lips. “Recently, an entertainment company reached out, wanting to sign me. They have some decent connections in the film and music industries. I’m thinking about giving it a shot.”
Previously, he wasn’t keen on it. After all, his current lifestyle was carefree, and he wasn’t short of money.
However, the memory of the overweight, aging talent director hinting at inappropriate demands had left a sour taste in his mouth.
But after being repeatedly provoked by Tang Song, his simmering anger turned into a burning desire for revenge.
If he wanted to fight back, he had to make himself stronger.
Gritting his teeth, Liu Wenning resolved to take the plunge. Who knows—he might actually hit it big.
And when that happens, he’ll return triumphant and humiliate Tang Song, slapping him in the face with his success.
The sky was overcast, and the sunlight was soft and mellow, casting a unique gentleness over the scenery.
In the distance, hues of orange and lavender interwove across the heavens, painting a tranquil and serene evening sky.
A refreshing, moist breeze filled the air as lush greenery blurred past.
Seated on the back of the bike, Cheng Qiuqiu took a deep breath, her tense body gradually relaxing.
Her nose twitched, catching the crisp, pleasant scent emanating from Tang Song.
It puzzled her. Despite wearing biker gear, he didn’t have the sweaty odor she expected.
Caught in her thoughts, Qiuqiu’s cheeks flushed slightly.
She felt a bit off today. Why was she even noticing such random things?
One thing, however, was clear—she didn’t dislike or reject Tang Song. Otherwise, she wouldn’t have agreed to sit behind him on the bike.
As she loosened her posture, some inevitable physical contact occurred between them.
Her heartbeat spiked momentarily before returning to normal.
The gray-and-black city walls came into view as the bike rolled onto the riverside road by the Hutuo River.
The engine’s rhythmic roar punctuated the serene afternoon air.
At a junction, Tang Song braked the bike, coming to a smooth stop.
For a brief moment, something soft and springy pressed against his back before retreating quickly.
The sensation brought a wide grin to Tang Song’s face.
When he had given Lingling a ride earlier, her figure had left him indifferent. But this was different—he could now understand the appeal.
Lingling’s nickname, derived from “00,” seemed quite apt. And now, Qiuqiu’s “QQ” nickname felt just as fitting, especially given its “fuller” connotation.
Satisfied with this poetic justice, Tang Song’s mind wandered to Liu Qingning.
Back in school, he often gave her rides on his scooter, aimlessly roaming around the county.
He fondly recalled the way her arms had tightly wrapped around his waist, paired with her impressively endowed figure.
Liu Qingning was undeniably his white moonlight—someone blessed by the heavens.
Even in high school, her charm was evident. She was adorable, intelligent, and a top student adored by both peers and teachers.
She had a clear plan for her life, displaying maturity, rationality, and an insatiable thirst for knowledge.
Whenever he was with her, Tang Song often felt inadequate.
Objectively, they belonged to two different worlds.
Despite his best efforts, he had only managed to get into Yan City University of Technology, a fairly average school.
Meanwhile, Liu Qingning spent her spare time listening to music, reading novels, and chatting with friends, only to effortlessly secure admission to Imperial Capital University, one of China’s top two institutions.
During college, she even won the gold medal in the “Internet+” Entrepreneurship Competition.
Her brilliance had always intimidated Tang Song, making him hesitate to confess his feelings.
If it weren’t for the note she had written him, saying, “Let’s work hard and meet at the top,” he doubted he would’ve persevered through those years.
Her words, written on paper in 2015, had reshaped his senior year of high school, his university life, and ultimately his path in life.
“See you at the top…” Tang Song murmured into the wind, his tone steady, but his eyes blazing with determination.
The memories of school uniforms, high ponytails, and carefree scooter rides had become symbolic of his youth.
This desire to surpass his former self—to become more outstanding—was what kept him from seeking out his white moonlight.
He wanted to ascend higher, to let his youth witness his unique brilliance.
Tilting his head back, Tang Song shouted into the glow of the setting sun.
A sense of clarity washed over him, and a bold joy shone in his eyes.
As twilight embraced the sky, the shimmering river wore a golden sheen.
The murmur of flowing water accompanied occasional birdsong in the distance.
Against the backdrop of golden dusk, gentle rivers, and verdant trees, the duo shot a short video.
The footage featured Tang Song riding his BMW Double-R along the quiet riverside road.
They also captured several first-person perspective shots before heading back to the club.
With dusk settling in, the riding team quickly prepared to return to the city.
As the convoy entered the bustling urban area, skyscrapers and traffic once again dominated the scenery.
At a corner on Sports Street, Molly waved and shot Tang Song a wink. “Heartthrob, QQ, I’ve got something to take care of tonight. Bye-bye!”
“Bye-bye! Take care on the road.”
“Bye!”
After watching Molly disappear on her Jinchilla 300, Tang Song turned to Qiuqiu.
“QQ, thanks for helping me shoot videos this afternoon. Let me treat you to dinner—what do you feel like eating?”
Qiuqiu hesitated for a moment before replying softly, “Thanks… That’d be nice.”
They ended up at a Sichuan hot pot restaurant Qiuqiu occasionally visited.
Being a Saturday evening, and in a busy shopping district, the place was packed. It took them over half an hour of waiting outside before they got a table.
The rich aroma of spicy hot pot instantly stirred their appetite.
Under warm yellow lights, the wooden tables and chairs exuded a homely charm, while the Sichuan-themed decor added a lively touch.
The handmade beef broth was spicy but flavorful, without being overwhelming.
The fresh ingredients—crisp tripe, freshly cut beef, silky duck blood—were all incredibly satisfying after a quick dip in the bubbling broth.
Qiuqiu also ordered some barbecued meat and freshly made lemon tea to complement the meal. The pairing was a perfect match.
As they ate, the conversation meandered from Shimmer Coffee and motorcycles to Sichuan hot pot.
Tang Song learned that Qiuqiu’s hometown was Chengdu, Sichuan.
However, contrary to his image of a bold, outgoing Sichuan girl, Qiuqiu was quiet and reserved.
Only when talking about Su Yu did she brighten up, her enthusiasm transforming her demeanor completely.
Truthfully, Tang Song’s interest in her wasn’t just about her looks or figure. Su Yu had something to do with it as well.
When they finally stepped out of the hot pot restaurant, night had fully descended.
The neatly paved streets, bright streetlights, flickering neon signs, and bustling crowds painted the city with vibrant life.
The summer evening breeze carried away the lingering scent of hot pot from their clothes.
Taking a deep breath, Tang Song quietly savored the human warmth and the lively atmosphere of this moment.
Cheng Qiuqiu, lost in thought as she gazed at his profile, softly said, “Thanks for the meal. I’ll treat you next time when I get the chance.”
“Oh?” Tang Song raised an eyebrow with a smile. “When’s that? QQ, you’re not just being polite, are you?”
Under the warm glow of the streetlights, Cheng Qiuqiu’s face flushed. Stammering, she replied, “No… maybe during the next motorcycle trip?”
She had spoken casually, not expecting Tang Song’s straightforwardness to catch her off guard, leaving her embarrassed.
“Pfft—” Tang Song chuckled and patted her head. Waving goodbye, he said, “Take care and ride safe.”
With that, Tang Song mounted his Ninja 400, started the engine, and disappeared into the night.
Watching his tall, confident figure fade into the darkness, Cheng Qiuqiu felt a fleeting sense of daze.
She realized why she didn’t mind spending time with him.
Aside from the goodwill earned from Su Yu’s fan support and his guitar playing earlier, there was something about the vitality and infectious energy he exuded.
It reminded her of her senior, Gao Mengting, whose radiant presence could brighten her gloomy, hollow moods, like sunshine piercing through clouds.
The breeze caressed her cheeks, and the sound of the engine seemed to echo faintly in her ears.
Shaking her head, her orange-brown hair fluttering lightly, Qiuqiu put on her helmet and rode her Suzuki GSX250 back to the Zhuxi Residential Complex.
“Creak—”
The door to Room 1202 opened softly, revealing a well-lit living room.
Cheng Qiuqiu switched to slippers, walked in, and turned on the floor fan. Picking up a glass of water from the table, she took a sip.
Footsteps sounded behind her.
Turning around, she saw Gao Mengting emerging from the master bedroom.
Mengting greeted her with a gentle smile. “You’re back a bit late today. Didn’t you say you’d be home by 7?”
“I was out with a friend for dinner, so it took longer,” Qiuqiu explained.
Mengting sniffed the air and teased, “Ah, hot pot, huh?”
Embarrassed, Qiuqiu sniffed her clothes. The mix of sweat and the strong aroma of beef tallow was undeniable. Her face reddened as she quickly stood.
“I’ll go take a shower first, senior.”
Grabbing her towel, she hurried to the bathroom.
Inside the bathroom, Qiuqiu removed her clothes one by one, placing them into a basin.
Suddenly, she froze, her eyes fixed on faint, barely noticeable marks on the fabric.
Her mouth dropped open, and her expression turned peculiar.
“What… what’s this about?”
Meanwhile, at Yanjing Tiancheng, Tang Song parked his motorcycle and hummed a tune as he returned to his penthouse.
He poured some whiskey over ice, letting the cooling liquid smoothen its flavor. Leaning against the sofa, he swirled the glass and took a sip, enjoying the mellow, refreshing taste.
“Ding! Congratulations, player, on completing the challenge task 【Spirited and Ambitious】.”
A faint translucent screen appeared, with lines of text jumping out:
【Reward Settlement in Progress…】
【During today’s riding trip, you embodied confidence, passion, and hopefulness. Balanced with humility and sharpness, pride and ease, you explored life’s vibrance with a richer mindset and experienced your own spirited ambition.】
【You have earned a special item: Mall Refresh Card *1】
Tang Song smirked, draining his whiskey before placing the glass on the coffee table.
Entering his inventory, he selected the Mall Refresh Card and used it immediately.
“Ding! The system mall has been updated. New items are now available.”
The crisp system notification echoed in his ears as he returned to the main interface and opened the mall module.
The previously empty shelves now displayed two items glowing with distinct hues.
Gently touching the items with his mind, their descriptions popped up:
【Performance Fruit】: Gradually improves physical performance and endurance over one week. (Price: 2 million yuan)Note 1: Optimize results by maintaining a good workout routine, healthy habits, and reducing excess during the effect period.【Low Whispers of Humanity】: Automatically triggers a special event instance in suitable scenes or with specific characters. Completing the instance enhances the player’s understanding of human nature. Charm +1. (Price: 20 million yuan)After reading the descriptions, Tang Song’s eyes gleamed with excitement.
His high task completion clearly paid off, as the refreshed items perfectly suited his needs.
Currently, what he craved most was improved physical performance. After all, certain challenges—whether with a fitness-obsessed beauty therapist or a spirited assistant—demanded it.
The Performance Fruit couldn’t have come at a better time!
Aside from physical improvements, boosting charm was equally appealing. Unlocking more privileges and assets was essential.
He recalled acquiring Low Whispers of Humanity previously when his Little Red Book fan count exceeded 10,000. Using it on Lin Muxue had netted him a charm boost of +1 after clearing the instance. It was truly a god-tier item.
The steep price tag of 20 million yuan wasn’t surprising.
Entering his personal dashboard:
Balance: 513,000 yuan (Investment Capital: 195 million yuan)Tang Song sighed, eyeing his meager balance.
Opening his Popular Me title details, he reviewed the cash rewards:
Current Cash Rewards: 2,212,100 yuan (Total: 24,012,100 yuan)Little Red Book Followers: 19,855Douyin Followers: 206,311It had been about ten days since his last withdrawal. Although he had uploaded a few videos sporadically, the follower growth was decent—Douyin gained nearly 20,000 followers, while Little Red Book added over 2,000.
The 20 million yuan price for Low Whispers of Humanity seemed insurmountable.
Tang Song sighed. He needed to focus on content creation or trigger tasks with cash rewards. Otherwise, he’d have to wait until completing the Second Phase Growth Plan Task to afford it.
But he wasn’t in a rush, as activating the item depended on finding the right scenario.
Clicking on the withdrawal option:
New Balance: 2.725 million yuan (Investment Capital: 195 million yuan)Back in the mall, he selected the Performance Fruit and purchased it immediately.
“Ding! You have obtained the special item 【Performance Fruit】.”
New Balance: 725,000 yuan (Investment Capital: 195 million yuan)He then re-entered his inventory.
A green-glowing fruit lay quietly in the inventory, its light soft yet vibrant. Just as Tang Song was about to tap "use," his eyes drifted toward another item glowing white beside it: the Enhancement Crystal.
This remarkable tool could merge related special items into a more powerful, unified artifact.
Instinctively, Tang Song long-pressed on the Enhancement Crystal.
A list of potential combinations appeared:
(Tang Song's Baseball Cap × Tang Song's Glasses)(Study Card × Tang Song's Mask)(Scenario Instance Creation Card × Study Card × Performance Fruit × Tang Song's Mask)The last combination caught Tang Song’s attention immediately, his eyes lighting up.
From previous gameplay experience, he had a solid grasp of how the Enhancement Crystal worked:
The more items involved in a combination, the more extraordinary and valuable the resulting artifact would be. Follow current novᴇls on novel✦fire.net
This four-item combination clearly revolved around Scenario Instances and seemed likely to involve themes of "school" and "learning."
Tang Song paused for a moment, considering the risk and reward. Based on his experience, the logic seemed solid.
With a decisive tap, he selected the four-item combination and prepared to see what would come of it.