〈Parallel Universes〉

25. The Island Doctor

1. The Calm Before the Plane Crash

The small airplane flew through the blue sky and white clouds, while sunlight streamed through the windows and filled the cabin. Dr. Rocky sat by the window, gazing at the clouds and thinking about the international rescue mission he was about to undertake. There were only a few passengers and one pilot on board, and the atmosphere was quiet and peaceful.

A flight attendant walked by with a smile. “Sir, would you like some juice or coffee?”

Dr. Rocky smiled and shook his head. “No, thank you. I just want to get some rest.”

The flight attendant nodded and continued toward the back of the cabin. Rocky leaned back in his seat, a trace of fatigue showing in his eyes. Ever since joining Doctors Without Borders, he had been a busy doctor, constantly traveling around the world to treat people in need. Yet deep inside, he had always felt a kind of emptiness that he could never quite resolve.

Rocky said to himself, “Maybe after this mission is over, I should give myself a long vacation.”

2. The Storm Arrives

Suddenly, the sky outside the window grew dark, and thick black clouds rapidly approached from the distance. The cabin began to shake slightly, and the passengers exchanged uneasy glances. Rocky frowned and looked out the window. The dark clouds churned like an angry sea, while lightning tore across the sky inside the clouds.

Rocky murmured, “Looks like we’re going to have some trouble.”

The captain’s voice came over the intercom, sounding somewhat tense. “Attention, passengers. We are about to enter a storm zone with severe turbulence. Please fasten your seat belts and remain calm.”

Rocky quickly fastened his seat belt and took a deep breath. He had witnessed too many accidents and dangers, and he tried his best to remain calm. But the violent shaking of the cabin and the increasingly fierce storm outside made him uneasy.

Passenger 1 grabbed the seat in panic. “What’s happening? Are we going to be okay?”

Passenger 2’s voice trembled. “Oh my God… This storm is huge…”

3. The Moment of the Crash

As the storm grew more violent, the airplane began to shake violently. Thunder roared deafeningly, and lightning illuminated every terrified face inside the cabin. Rocky’s heart raced as he gripped the armrest tightly and felt the airplane plunging rapidly downward.

The captain’s voice came urgently over the intercom. “Emergency landing! Everyone, hold on! We’ve lost control!”

The airplane began plummeting rapidly. Rocky felt gravity pulling violently at his body. The view outside the windows had been completely swallowed by the storm, leaving only chaotic flashes of lightning and pitch-black clouds.

Rocky prayed in a low voice, “God, please let us survive…”

4. The Deserted Island After the Crash

At the moment the airplane crashed, the violent impact was mixed with the sound of metal breaking apart, and Rocky’s consciousness gradually faded. A moment later, a terrifying silence fell over everything.

Rocky was awakened by intense pain and discovered that he was pinned beneath the wreckage of the airplane. Dense jungle surrounded him. Trees had been knocked down by the powerful impact, airplane debris covered the ground, and the air was filled with the smell of burning and the damp scent of earth.

Rocky struggled to free himself from the wreckage. His arm had been cut, and blood slowly flowed from the wound, but he had no time to worry about it. He looked around and saw the other people from the airplane lying among the wreckage, with no sign of any survivors. The sky was still covered with dark clouds, but the storm had begun to weaken, leaving only low rumbles of thunder rolling in the distance.

Rocky weakly said to himself, “Am I the only one who… survived?”

He struggled to his feet and felt his legs weak and unsteady. His heart was filled with loneliness and fear. But he knew this was not the time to give up. He covered the wound with his hand, tried to calm himself, and searched for possible resources that could help him survive.

Rocky looked around and took a deep breath. “All right, Rocky. This isn’t where you want to stay, but you have to survive.”

He began searching the wreckage for useful supplies and found a bottle of water and a first-aid kit. He strapped the first-aid kit to his back and quickly treated the wound on his arm. Fatigue and panic overwhelmed his entire body, but he knew he could not stop.

5. First Encounter with the Deserted Island

Rocky walked forward, trying to leave the crash site behind. He passed through the dense forest, surrounded by thick vegetation, while the air was filled with moisture and the smell of earth. Occasionally, birds flew suddenly into the air, crying sharply. Leaves rustled in the gentle breeze. Yet apart from the sounds of nature, this world seemed completely cut off from civilization.

The surroundings became increasingly desolate, as though no human being had ever set foot on this island. Rocky stopped and stood among a group of towering trees, gazing at a solitary mountain peak in the distance. Deep inside, he felt a strange force—fear of the unknown mixed with a faint sense of uneasy anticipation.

Rocky quietly asked himself, “What exactly is this island?”

Rocky’s adventure had only just begun. Although he had no idea what awaited him, he was already prepared to face any challenge. The mysteries of the deserted island were gradually beginning to emerge, and his journey of survival was about to begin.

6. The First Night on the Deserted Island

Night fell, and the deserted island looked especially mysterious beneath the dim sky. In the jungle, towering trees blocked the moonlight, while vines wrapped around tree trunks and rocks like snakes. Rocky moved alone through this unfamiliar jungle, feeling his clothes cling tightly to his skin from the humidity and sweat. In the surrounding silence, the low cries of birds and animals could occasionally be heard. The wind passed through the leaves, carrying a strange fragrance that was difficult to identify.

Just as he began to lose his sense of direction and felt exhausted all over, a faint glow suddenly streamed through the trees ahead. Rocky stopped, frowned, and slowly approached.

Rocky said in a low voice, surprised, “What is that…?”

He pushed aside the branches in front of him and saw a strange giant tree. Its trunk was as thick as a city wall, and its crown rose high into the clouds, resembling a natural lighthouse. But what shocked him most were the leaves. At night, the leaves actually emitted a faint blue glow, like stars scattered across the earth from the night sky.

Rocky looked up and stared at it. “This tree… is it glowing? Just like moonlight.”

He approached the tree and reached out to touch one of its glowing leaves. The leaf was cool to the touch, and its light passed gently between his fingers, soft and dreamlike. Rocky suddenly felt a trace of comfort. At least this tree could illuminate his path through the darkness and help him find a place to shelter.

7. Adapting to Life on the Deserted Island

During the day, sunlight filtered through the dense leaves and fell onto the ground, forming dappled patterns of light and shadow. Rocky began adapting to this unfamiliar environment. He reached a beach near the coast, where wreckage knocked down by the storm lay nearby. The airplane’s metal fuselage reflected the glaring sunlight. Rocky searched through the wreckage for useful resources and found some damaged tools and medical supplies.

He used pieces of the airplane fuselage and pieces of wood from the beach to build a simple shelter. In order to survive, he learned to use tree branches to make a simple harpoon, catch fish and shrimp in the shallows, and gather shells to satisfy his hunger. Whenever night fell, the faint glow of the Moonlight Tree always illuminated the path ahead.

As Rocky prepared the fish and shrimp, he said to himself, “This island looks desolate, but it has a life of its own. I have to learn to coexist with it.”

He looked up at the sun gradually fading on the horizon, and a sudden sense of loneliness welled up inside him. He thought of the patients he had once treated and remembered how he had been a doctor who traveled around the world. Now, however, he had become a survivor struggling to stay alive on this deserted island.

Rocky smiled bitterly. “From the operating room to a deserted island, I still have to rely on my own hands to save myself.”

8. The Discovery of the Phantom Wood

One day, Rocky continued searching for food in the jungle when he suddenly discovered a strange tree. Its branches and leaves were silver-gray, its trunk was smooth as stone, and its fruit was unusually bright, emitting a faint blue glow. Rocky approached the tree, picked one of the fruits, and smelled a sweet fragrance.

Rocky murmured, “It looks like some kind of fruit… Can it be eaten?”

He cautiously took a bite. The juice of the fruit spread through his mouth and instantly surged throughout his body, making him feel a kind of power he had never experienced before. He could not help eating several more bites and felt his hunger disappear instantly as his strength rapidly returned.

Rocky exclaimed in surprise, “This thing… can actually relieve hunger? It’s a miracle!”

However, as time passed, Rocky began to feel dizzy and lightheaded. The scenery around him became blurry. The trees seemed to be whispering to him, while distant sounds became illusory and impossible to make out. He suddenly shook his head and realized what was happening.

Rocky said cautiously to himself, “This is… an illusion? This fruit is too powerful. I can’t eat too much of it.”

He tried to remain calm and forced himself to stop. After taking several deep breaths, he gradually escaped that unreal sensation. Rocky knew that he had discovered an extremely powerful plant, but this power was a double-edged sword. He had to carefully control how much he consumed and could not allow the hallucinations to cloud his judgment.

9. Collecting Rainwater and Exploring

As time passed, Rocky gradually learned how to survive in this environment. He used metal sheets from the wreckage and vines to make a simple water collector and gathered rainwater. When the rainy season arrived in the jungle, he learned how to use these natural resources to store fresh water, ensuring that he could survive during the dry season.

Whenever he walked through the jungle, Rocky always felt that the island seemed to be alive, as though every tree and every leaf were watching him. He could sense the mysterious power of the island, especially the Moonlight Tree and the Phantom Wood. They seemed to be silently protecting everything on the island.

Rocky watched the raindrops fall drop by drop into the water collector and pondered inwardly, “This island… is more than just a place where I have to survive. There are too many secrets here that I don’t understand.”

He looked into the distance and could vaguely see the towering mountain at the center of the island, its summit surrounded by clouds and mist. Rocky knew that the deepest secrets of the island must be hidden there, and sooner or later, he would have to uncover them.

Rocky encouraged himself firmly. “But before that, I have to survive.”

10. The Venomous Snake Attack

Deep inside the dense jungle, sunlight could barely penetrate the layers of the canopy. The air was hot and humid, filled with the smell of earth and decaying leaves. Rocky carefully made his way among the vines and branches when suddenly he felt a sharp pain in his left palm, burning as if he had been scorched by fire.

He looked down and saw a mamba snake rapidly disappearing among the vines. Two deep fang marks had already appeared on his palm, and dark blood was slowly seeping from the wounds.

Rocky’s heart raced, and fear seized him. “Damn it! It’s a mamba snake… The venom has already entered my bloodstream.”

He did not hesitate for long. He quickly tore off part of his sleeve and tied it tightly above his left elbow, trying to slow the spread of the toxin. The numbness in his palm gradually intensified as the venom rapidly spread through his body. He pulled out the dagger he carried with his right hand, knowing that every second counted. Otherwise, the toxin would threaten his life.

Rocky gritted his teeth and quickly searched the jungle for any plant that might counteract the poison. Just as his vision began to blur, he suddenly saw several mayapple plants, their emerald-green leaves shining in the morning light. Rocky immediately lunged toward them, plucked several leaves with trembling hands, and quickly stuffed them into his mouth, chewing them into a paste.

Rocky gritted his teeth, endured the pain, and said, “Don’t pass out, Rocky… You can’t go down like this.”

He used the dagger to cut open his palm and squeezed the dark blood out of the wound. The venom mixed with the blood and dripped onto the ground, forming an especially frightening dark-red liquid. Rocky applied the chewed mayapple leaves to the wound and felt a cool sensation ease the intense pain in his palm. Although the numbness had not completely disappeared, he knew that at least the spread of the toxin had been temporarily contained.

Dragging his exhausted body, Rocky struggled out of the jungle. He passed through the dense forest he had crossed several times before. His vision grew increasingly blurred, and his steps became increasingly heavy. Finally, when he stepped onto the soft sand of the beach, his weakness completely overwhelmed him. Dizziness surged over him like a tide, and the entire world spun before his eyes. The beach seemed to transform into an endless desert.

Rocky said through his fading consciousness, “Almost there… Just hold on a little longer…”

He struggled desperately to remain conscious, but in the end, his physical limits defeated him. Rocky collapsed heavily onto the beach and lost consciousness. The world around him fell into silence, with only the sea breeze and the tides whispering in his ears.

11. Rebirth at Dawn

The next morning, the glaring sunlight and scorching rays pierced through Rocky’s eyelids, forcibly awakening him from unconsciousness. He suddenly opened his eyes and found himself lying on the golden beach. The dizziness had eased somewhat, but his body was still weak. The mayapple leaves covering his left palm had already dried up, and a thin layer of scar tissue had formed over the wound.

At that moment, Rocky was weak but filled with gratitude. “I’m still alive… Fortunately, the snake venom didn’t spread.”

He struggled to sit up and felt an intense hunger and thirst. The world before his eyes gradually came into focus. The sun had already risen high, and waves of heat were beginning to sweep across the land. He knew he had to replenish his energy and fluids.

Rocky dragged his exhausted body to a coconut tree at the edge of the beach. He found a dry tree trunk and laboriously used it to knock at the coconuts hanging from the tree. Finally, one of the coconuts fell to the ground with a thud. He split open the hard coconut shell with his dagger, lifted the coconut, and drank deeply and eagerly.

Rocky panted and said with a slightly bitter smile, “Who would have thought that something as simple as coconut water could save a life?”

After drinking the coconut water, he felt some of his strength return. At that moment, his eyes fell on a fruit tree at the edge of the jungle, covered with strange egg-shaped fruits. Rocky walked over, picked one of the fruits, and tore open its skin with his hands. A rich cream-like aroma immediately filled the air. He cautiously took a bite. The flesh was delicate and sweet, instantly easing his hunger.

Rocky took another bite and murmured in surprise, “It tastes just like fresh cream. I can’t believe it tastes this good.”

He felt his strength returning, and his hunger disappeared instantly. When he examined the wound on his left hand, he was surprised to discover that not only had the wound formed a scar rapidly, but the pain had also been greatly reduced.

Rocky murmured in astonishment, “This fruit is incredible. It not only fills the stomach, but also speeds up the healing of wounds?”

He suddenly realized that he had discovered plants of tremendous medical value on this island. These discoveries might allow him to survive longer on the deserted island and might even give him hope of finding a way to escape.

The sun gradually sank toward the horizon, and the beach and jungle were bathed in a golden glow. Rocky sat beneath the coconut tree, holding several of the strange cream fruits in his hands. He knew that he had to continue exploring the island’s secrets before he could truly find a way to survive and leave. But at that moment, he felt that he had taken a step out of the shadow of disaster.

Rocky looked toward the distant horizon and said firmly to himself, “I will survive, and… I will find my way home.”

12. Entering the Native Tribe

Rocky made his way deep into the island. The surrounding forest grew increasingly dark, and even the air seemed to become heavy and still. Dry leaves and branches beneath his feet made faint cracking sounds, and every step was filled with tension. Suddenly, the faint sound of drums came from ahead. Rocky immediately stopped, held his breath, and followed the sound.

Before long, he saw an open area ahead. Deep within the dense forest, an ancient and secluded village came into view. The native tribespeople were dressed in animal skins, their expressions stern, holding spears as they danced around a bonfire.

Rocky thought to himself, “There’s actually a native tribe here? This place has never even been discovered by the outside world.”

Rocky tried to approach the village so that he could observe it more carefully. However, the moment he took one step forward, he sensed something moving behind him. Suddenly, a spear was pointed directly at his back, and a cold voice came from behind him.

One of the tribesmen shouted in an unfamiliar language, “Kha-na tu!”

Rocky turned around and saw several tall, heavily muscled tribesmen surrounding him. Their expressions were tense and hostile, as though Rocky’s appearance were a tremendous threat.

Rocky’s hands were tightly bound with coarse hemp rope, and the tribesmen escorted him through the village. The villagers cast uneasy glances at him, whispering among themselves and pointing at him. Rocky was taken to the entrance of a towering cave, whose opening was decorated with strange totems. Burning torches illuminated both the inside and outside of the cave.

He was pushed into the cave. The interior was well ventilated and dry, and strange symbols were carved into the walls, telling ancient stories. He was forced to sit down, with his hands secured to the rock so that he could not move.

Fear and confusion filled Rocky’s heart. “What kind of place have I stumbled into? What… are these people going to do to me?”

Just then, an elderly man slowly emerged from the cave entrance. He was dressed in animal skins and held a feather-decorated staff in his hand. Wisdom and mystery showed in his eyes. The tribespeople lowered their heads one after another, clearly holding him in great awe.

The High Priest Alpha said in a deep voice, “Talkona... Ishtara.”

Rocky could not understand their language and could only show a confused expression. The tribespeople seemed dissatisfied with his silence and began whispering among themselves. Some even accused him of being an evil omen that had brought disaster.

Rocky remained trapped inside the cave. At night, moonlight streamed through gaps in the cave and fell across his body. He leaned against the cold stone wall with his eyes half closed and could faintly hear the sounds of a ceremony outside. Young priests chanted around the bonfire while the villagers knelt before a strange creature statue, devoutly praying for the protection of the forces of nature.

Rocky thought to himself, “These people have their own unique beliefs and culture. They seem to worship some kind of creature on the island and regard nature as a force that controls their fate… But they know nothing about the outside world. Can I use my knowledge to earn their trust?”

Several days passed. Through observation, Rocky discovered that High Priest Alpha was the spiritual leader of the tribe. He frequently divined the signs of the heavens to determine when the tribe should plant crops and hunt. The villagers depended heavily on him and held him in great respect. Rocky also gradually came to understand that the tribe knew nothing about the outside world. They called the island “Paradise Island.”

13. Outbreak of an Epidemic

Several days later, Rocky could hear increasingly tense activity outside the cave. Cries and screams began to spread throughout the village. An epidemic had suddenly broken out. Many members of the tribe developed persistent high fevers, and their skin began to ulcerate. The entire tribe was thrown into panic.

Rocky was brought before a sick person. The patient’s face was yellow and pale, his limbs were weak, and his breathing was rapid. High Priest Alpha and several tribespeople stood nearby, applying herbs and red mud to the patient’s body, but there seemed to be no effect.

Rocky shouted anxiously, “This isn’t an ordinary illness. It’s an infectious disease! You can’t treat it like this!”

The priests could not understand what he was saying and continued treating the patient according to their own methods, but the patient’s condition showed no improvement. Helpless, Rocky could only try using simple gestures to make them understand.

Rocky pointed at the patient, then pointed at himself and slapped his chest, trying to indicate that he wanted to help. “Let me try. I know how to treat him!”

Rocky was anxious inside. “If I can’t cure these patients, they may think I’m a bringer of disaster and even execute me.”

High Priest Alpha stared deeply at Rocky, gently tapping his staff against the ground. The tribespeople gathered around, waiting for their chief, Sammias, to give an order. Finally, Sammias made a simple gesture indicating that Rocky could try.

Rocky quickly examined the patient’s symptoms and discovered that it was an acute infection. Using some herbs he had found on the island and a small amount of emergency medicine he had carried with him, he prepared a simple antibacterial ointment and applied it to the patient’s body.

Rocky’s hands trembled slightly, and his heart was filled with uneasiness. “Will this work? No matter what, I have to take the chance and do everything I can.”

Several days later, the patient’s symptoms gradually eased, and the other infected members of the tribe also began to recover. Seeing the miraculous change, the tribespeople’s attitude toward Rocky also changed. Although the tribal priests did not understand the “modern medicine” Rocky used, they began to show him goodwill.

High Priest Alpha bowed respectfully to Rocky. Although they could not communicate through words, his gesture was filled with respect. “Talkona Ishtara…”

Rocky nodded slightly, relieved. “It seems… they’ve accepted me.”

14. Rocky Earns Their Trust

At dusk, the village air was filled with the smoke of burning firewood. Rocky crouched beside a fire while a tribal warrior lay flat in front of him. The warrior’s leg was covered in blood, and the wound was deep enough to expose the bone. Members of the tribe surrounded Rocky, whispering among themselves. High Priest Alpha stood nearby, holding his staff and calmly observing everything with a frown.

Rocky calmly treated the wound, carefully cleaning away the infected pus before taking bandages from his medical kit.

Rocky thought calmly, “I have to control the infection in the patient’s wound first. There are no antibiotics here, but I can use everything I’ve learned to deal with it. As long as they see that I can save people, perhaps they’ll become less wary of me.”

He took a bottle of iodine from his medical bag and slowly poured it onto the gauze covering the tribesman’s wound. The pungent smell of disinfectant spread through the air. The injured tribesman groaned in pain and tightly gripped the arm of the tribal companion beside him, but he endured the pain without saying a word.

Rocky made a simple gesture with his hands, mimicking the motion of wiping, and explained to the High Priest, “Disinfection.”

High Priest Alpha nodded slightly and asked, “Tal’shan, mira tan’sura?” (“What is the purpose of doing this?”)

Rocky continued treating the wound and then bandaged it. The tribespeople watching remained completely silent, their expressions complicated as they stared at him. After a moment, the injured man’s expression of pain seemed to ease somewhat. An elderly villager muttered something softly, as if praying.

15. The Discovery of the Blue Vine

Several days later, Rocky discovered a mysterious plant on the island. Its vines were covered with blue flowers and gave off a faint herbal fragrance. After conducting some simple experiments, Rocky discovered that the juice of the vine had anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and could accelerate the healing of infected wounds.

Inside the tribe’s medicine room, Rocky crushed the “Blue Vine” and prepared it into a simple ointment. He applied the ointment to the wound of a patient, and the wound actually began healing at a speed visible to the naked eye. The villagers watched in astonishment, and Rocky’s medical skills gradually won them over.

Rocky thought optimistically, “Perhaps this is my chance to earn their trust. This tribe may be wiser than I imagined, but they lack certain kinds of modern scientific knowledge, and I can help them.”

As the effectiveness of Rocky’s treatments gradually became apparent, the atmosphere in the tribe also slowly changed. The tribespeople who had initially been cold toward him began approaching him voluntarily and started calling him “the Healer.” He was no longer kept tied up in the cave and was allowed to move freely in the village. High Priest Alpha even came personally to discuss herbs with Rocky and exchange medical knowledge.

High Priest Alpha said to Rocky in the native language, “Tar’kai… Mah’na” (“Messenger of the spirits”), then pointed toward the patients Rocky had treated and showed a respectful expression.

Rocky smiled in response and answered with gestures, “Thank you. I have a lot to learn from you.”

Alpha nodded gently, showing his approval. Although there were still barriers to their communication, both sides realized that their knowledge complemented each other.

16. Diana and Nicole

At the edge of the village, a group of tribespeople were holding an archery contest. Diana stood in the center of the field, holding a bow and arrow with a determined expression. Her sharp eyes locked onto a coconut hanging from a distant tree. She drew the bow to its full length and released the arrow. It flew like a shooting star and passed straight through the center of the target.

The villagers applauded and cheered, while Diana quietly walked over to Rocky. A trace of curiosity flashed in her eyes.

Diana said to Rocky in a gentle voice, “I’ve heard the tribespeople say that your medical skills are extraordinary.”

Rocky smiled and nodded, acknowledging her praise. “The same goes for you, Diana. Your archery skills are incredible. It looks like you’re a hunter.”

Diana smiled slightly, realizing that Rocky was not merely a healer but also a wise man with extensive knowledge. Gradually, she began to develop feelings for Rocky.

Nicole, the chief’s daughter, developed a strong interest in Rocky’s medical skills. She had studied herbs and minerals since childhood and often helped the High Priest treat minor illnesses. Now, after seeing Rocky’s methods of treatment, Nicole was deeply impressed and began to consider following him to learn modern medicine.

In one corner of the village, Rocky was preparing medicinal powder. Nicole crouched beside him with curiosity shining in her eyes.

Nicole asked seriously, “How did you know that the juice from these Blue Vines could treat illnesses?”

Rocky smiled and explained, “By observing how patients respond after taking medicine and studying the properties of the plant itself, I discovered its anti-inflammatory effects. If you want to learn, I can teach you more about medicine.”

A trace of delight appeared on Nicole’s face, and she eagerly nodded. She deeply admired Rocky’s knowledge and was also beginning to develop unusual feelings for this outsider.

17. The Two Women’s Secret Rivalry

Diana and Nicole maintained an appearance of calmness and courtesy, but their feelings for Rocky gradually revealed themselves, intentionally or unintentionally. The two women quietly began competing with each other. They often vied to show their abilities, whether during work in the village or while helping with medical treatments, all in the hope of attracting Rocky’s attention.

After one hunting trip, Diana brought back a wild animal and personally presented her catch to Rocky, smiling as she watched him.

Diana said softly to Rocky, “I caught this for you. Smoke and dry it, and it will help restore your strength.”

Rocky nodded gratefully. “Thank you, Diana. You really are an excellent hunter.”

Not far away, Nicole came over carrying a bundle of fresh herbs, a smile on her face. “Rocky, I found more Blue Vine. We can continue using it to treat the sick people in the village.”

Each woman brought a different gift, but their eyes revealed a subtle sense of rivalry.

Rocky vaguely sensed the change in the atmosphere. “They seem to have developed feelings for me. How should I handle this situation?”

The rivalry between Diana and Nicole intensified without either of them realizing it. Although both women respected and admired Rocky, their feelings were quietly changing the balance within the tribe.

Inside the tribal hospital in the cave, Rocky and Nicole were performing a surgical operation. Several oil lamps hung on the walls, their dim light casting flickering shadows across the stone walls and illuminating the busy medical area. Rocky focused intently on operating the surgical instruments, while the nurses prepared the necessary medical supplies nearby. The air was filled with the smell of disinfectant and a faint sense of tension.

“Nicole, is the anesthetic ready?” Rocky asked as he continued operating. His voice was calm, but his eyes revealed concentration and professional expertise.

Nicole stood beside the operating table, holding a bottle of anesthetic. She carefully poured out the medicine, her hand trembling slightly. “Rocky, am I doing this correctly?”

Rocky turned his head and gave her an encouraging smile. “Good. Next, we need to control bleeding during the operation. Remember to be gentle and steady.”

Nicole nodded and picked up the hemostatic forceps, learning how to control bleeding during surgery. Her movements gradually became more skillful, and her face was filled with confidence and concentration.

After the operation, Nicole followed Rocky outside the cave to the grassy area, where the two of them began gathering medicinal herbs and minerals. The early morning sunlight streamed through the gaps between the leaves and fell upon the ground. The surrounding jungle was lush and green, and the air was filled with the fresh scent of soil and plants.

“These herbs are very effective for treating infections.” Rocky pointed to a herbaceous plant and carefully explained its medicinal properties. “And these minerals can be used to make ointments and disinfectants.”

Nicole carefully picked the herbs and placed them in a basket. An excited smile appeared on her face. “This knowledge is truly valuable. I feel like I’ve learned so much.”

Over the next few days, Nicole and Rocky analyzed the components of the herbs and minerals together and produced medicines such as penicillin and antiseptics. Nicole also began training a team of nurses and assigning them different tasks, gradually giving the tribal hospital a proper structure and bringing order to its operations.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the tribe, Diana’s behavior had caught Lando’s attention. Every day, she prepared meals for Rocky, arranging the food neatly and putting great thought into every meal. At dawn, she would put on her hunting clothes, take her bow and arrows, and disappear into the jungle. At sunset, she would return to the tribe carrying the deer and wild boar she had just hunted. Covered in sweat, she looked especially energetic.

“Rocky, this is the venison I hunted today. I hope you like it.” Diana smiled and placed the venison on the table in front of Rocky, her eyes filled with anticipation.

Rocky looked up at Diana and smiled. “This is wonderful. Thank you, Diana.”

A trace of relief flashed in Diana’s eyes. She then began sewing a complete set of animal-skin clothing and leather boots for Rocky. She concentrated intensely as she worked, and every stitch revealed the care and concern she had for him. The leather became soft and smooth in her hands, and these clothes would become important equipment for Rocky in the jungle.

Not far away, Lando watched the scene, a hint of jealousy and uneasiness in his eyes. As he watched Diana sewing clothes for Rocky, he struggled inwardly, unsure how to express his feelings for her. Lando’s hand clenched tightly into a fist, and his gaze turned toward the ground. He knew that he had always been in love with Diana, but he had never found an opportunity to confess his feelings to her.

“I... I need to take care of something,” Lando said quietly to himself before turning and walking toward the other side of the tribe. His heart was filled with conflict and disappointment, and he was deeply anxious about his feelings and his chances for the future.

As time passed, life in the tribe gradually returned to peace, while Rocky, Diana, and Nicole each found their own place. Everyone’s efforts were quietly changing this land and also creating deeper emotional bonds among them.

18: The Low Call of the Night Shadow Bird

Night fell. The dense jungle swayed in the breeze, and the sky was covered by heavy clouds. In the center of the camp, the bonfire crackled, its orange-yellow light dancing across the earthen walls of the village. Rocky sat beside the fire, his tired face illuminated by the flickering flames. Just then, a series of deep calls came from the distant jungle, seeming to rise slowly from the depths of the night.

Rocky’s heart tightened, and he felt a chill. “What is that sound? It is so deep and lonely, almost as if it is warning of some kind of danger.”

The villagers began speaking softly among themselves, some showing uneasiness on their faces. High Priest Alpha walked over to Rocky, his expression serious as he stared into the darkness in the distance.

Alpha spoke to Rocky in a low voice. “The Night Shadow Bird, Ka’rata. Its low call always brings bad luck. Whenever the Night Shadow Bird appears, disaster is never far away.”

Rocky frowned. “The Night Shadow Bird? It’s just a kind of bird, isn’t it? What does its call have to do with danger?”

Alpha slowly waved his hand. “It is not an ordinary bird. Every time it makes that low call, something terrible happens in the jungle. You are a wise Healer. You should trust the signs of nature.”

Although Rocky was half convinced and half doubtful, he decided not to argue for the time being when he saw the expressions on the faces of the tribespeople. He raised his head and looked toward the night sky. The bird’s call continued intermittently, as if warning of something.

19: The Threat of the Bone-Eating Worms

Several days later, one morning, Rocky and High Priest Alpha went deep into the jungle together to gather medicinal herbs. Sunlight streamed through the leaves, casting dappled patterns of light and shadow, while the air was filled with humid heat. Suddenly, a foul, rotten smell struck their noses. Rocky instinctively stopped. Behind the bushes ahead lay the rotting corpse of an animal.

Rocky asked in shock, “How could it have decomposed so quickly? There were no dead animals here just a few days ago. Could it be some kind of parasite?”

Alpha stepped forward and stared expressionlessly at the corpse before speaking in a low voice. “Bone-eating worms.”

Rocky asked in confusion, “Bone-eating worms? What kind of creatures are they?”

Alpha calmly explained, “They are silent killers. They can quietly burrow into an animal’s body and feed on its bone marrow. No living creature can escape their infestation. Look. They have already left, leaving only this shell behind.”

Rocky approached the corpse and used a branch to push aside the remaining fur and flesh. He discovered that the bones had been hollowed out, as if the creature had been completely consumed from within in a very short time. A chill ran through Rocky, and he murmured, “These creatures... if they were to enter a human body...”

Alpha added softly, “There is no antidote. Once the bone-eating worms enter the body, all that remains is to wait for death.”

Rocky shuddered in horror, and the hair on his arms stood on end.

20: The Legend of Flying Dragon Valley

That night, Rocky sat around the bonfire with the tribespeople. The flames danced, illuminating everyone’s faces. Diana and Nicole were talking quietly nearby, while Rocky listened intently as High Priest Alpha told them about the island’s mysterious legends.

Alpha’s eyes were deep and solemn, and his voice was low. “At the other end of the island, there is an ancient valley called Flying Dragon Valley. It was once an ancient city, but now only ruins remain.”

Rocky raised his head, curiosity flashing in his eyes. “Ruins? Why has no one ever explored them?”

Alpha said gravely, “Because there are guardians there. Those flying dragons, with horse-like heads and dragon-like bodies, are what we call ‘Lightning.’ They chase intruders, seize them in their mouths, and throw them into the sea.”

Rocky fell into thought, but a powerful desire to explore had already ignited within him. He knew he had to uncover the secrets of this ancient city. Perhaps it concealed even more unsolved mysteries about the island.

Rocky thought silently, “This island is not merely a primitive tribal village. Flying dragons, ancient ruins, mysterious guardians... I must find the answers to these mysteries. Perhaps they are directly connected to the reason I am stranded here.”

He looked up at Alpha and asked, “Has anyone ever tried to enter the ruins?”

Alpha was silent for a moment. “Yes, but no one ever came back alive.”

Rocky’s heart jolted, but his curiosity and desire for adventure only grew stronger. He had already made up his mind that one day he would enter Flying Dragon Valley and uncover the secrets hidden deep within it.

21: Rocky’s Determination to Explore

As night covered the land, Rocky stood alone outside the camp, gazing at the hazy mountains in the distance. The wind blew from the jungle, carrying a trace of moisture. His feelings were complicated. He was wary of the mysterious creatures on the island, yet at the same time, he was excited by the prospect of exploring the unknown.

Rocky was resolute as he murmured to himself, “I cannot stop here. This island has too many secrets. Flying Dragon Valley, the ruins of the ancient city... These mysteries may be the key to understanding this island. I must find the answers, even if I have to face unknown dangers.”

He knew that the low call of the Night Shadow Bird and the threat of the bone-eating worms were only the beginning, and that Flying Dragon Valley might conceal even greater dangers. But Rocky had already made up his mind. No matter how difficult the journey became, he would bravely set out on this path of adventure.

22: The Division Within the Tribe

At dusk, the tribe was illuminated by firelight, casting the conflicts and disputes within everyone’s hearts across their faces. The tribespeople sat gathered in the center of the square. Some looked solemn and spoke quietly among themselves, while others occasionally cast angry and suspicious glances toward Rocky. Rocky stood to one side, sensing the growing hostility around him. He felt vaguely uneasy, but his face remained calm.

Rocky thought to himself, “The atmosphere is becoming increasingly tense. There seems to be a serious division within the tribe over my presence.” He glanced at Diana. Her gaze was determined, but the murmurs around him made him feel increasingly isolated.

One tribesman muttered quietly, “Although his medical skills saved us, the things he has brought have taken us away from the teachings of our ancestors.”

Another tribesman said angrily, “Rocky is an outsider. We should not let him destroy the traditions of our tribe.”

Rocky heard the whispers and slightly furrowed his brows. Just as he was about to speak, a deep and hostile voice came from behind him.

Lando demanded angrily, “Rocky, your presence has caused a rift within our tribe! Our ancestors would never accept your modern medicine. You do not belong here!”

Rocky turned around and faced Lando directly. Lando was one of the tribe’s warriors, broad-shouldered and powerfully built, with anger burning in his eyes. His gaze was no longer filled with the respect it once held. Instead, it was filled with hostility and jealousy.

Lando paced along the edge of the jungle, his fists clenched and his face filled with anger and resentment. He remembered the smiles and encouragement Diana had once given him, but now her eyes remained fixed only on Rocky. This change made the fire of jealousy inside Lando burn even more fiercely, scorching his reason.

Lando said angrily to himself, “Diana used to be so warm toward me, but ever since that outsider arrived, she has never even looked at me properly. Rocky is an outsider. He does not belong to our tribe!” He suddenly tightened his grip on the spear in his hand, determination showing in his eyes.

Lando gritted his teeth and said quietly, “I can’t wait any longer. I have to take action and drive Rocky away.”

Behind him, several tribespeople quietly approached. They were all opponents of Rocky. They nodded at Lando and exchanged dissatisfied glances.

One tribesman lowered his voice and said, “Lando, we can all see that your courage and strength are enough to lead the tribe back onto the right path. That outsider cannot stay here.”

Lando nodded coldly. “Yes. I will make him understand that he is not worthy of standing on our tribal land.”

Lando and his allies discussed the matter for a while and decided to arrange a challenge that would force Rocky into a desperate situation. Rocky’s presence not only threatened Lando’s feelings but also touched the foundations of faith held by some of the tribe’s more conservative members.

23: The Decisive Duel Under a Gentleman’s Agreement

Scene Description:

In the tribal square, the atmosphere was tense. The tribespeople gathered together, forming a large circle, with Rocky and Lando standing opposite each other in the center. The setting sun cast its fading light across their faces, the shifting light and shadows reflecting their determination and confrontation. Lando stood upright, his spear pointing diagonally toward the ground, a firm confidence showing in his eyes.

Rocky’s feelings were complicated as he thought, “Lando’s challenge is not simply about proving that he is stronger than I am. It is more like a gamble over the future of the tribe. If I lose, it may mean not only that I must leave, but also that modern medicine will be completely rejected by the tribe.”

Lando said coldly, staring directly at Rocky, “Rocky, I will not let you remain in the tribe and shake our faith. I propose that we go to Flying Dragon Valley. Whoever first tames a flying dragon and rides it back to the tribal square will be the true winner. If you lose, even if you return alive, you may never set foot in the tribe again.”

Rocky remained silent for a moment. He felt the suspicious and hostile eyes of those around him, but he knew he had no choice.

Rocky nodded firmly. “I accept your challenge. If I fail, I will leave this tribe. But what if you lose?”

Lando gave a cold laugh and tilted his head slightly. “If I lose, I will leave the tribe and live alone on the beach.”

The two stared at each other for a moment. The fire in their eyes seemed to foreshadow the brutality of the duel. Rocky understood that this was not merely a confrontation between two men. It was also a struggle between faith and modernity, tradition and the future.

Night fell. Rocky sat beside the fire, preparing for the adventure that lay ahead. His hand gently held a wooden stick carved with the tribe’s totem, which Diana had secretly given him. She stood quietly beside him, her gentle gaze carrying a trace of worry.

Rocky felt a small warmth in his heart. “Diana still supports me. She believes in me.” He looked up at her, and a glimmer of hope rose in his heart.

Diana said softly, “Flying Dragon Valley is a dangerous place, but I believe you can succeed. Don’t let Lando’s scheme succeed.”

Rocky gave a bitter smile. “I know. This is not just about proving my abilities. It is also about the future of the tribe.”

Diana looked deeply into his eyes and then turned away, leaving him with a brief sentence: “You do not have to face everything alone. We are all behind you.”

As her figure disappeared into the firelight, Rocky’s resolve grew stronger. He knew that the outcome of this challenge was not merely a matter of his own survival. It also concerned the people who trusted and depended on him.

24: Lando’s Conflicted State of Mind

Meanwhile, Lando stood at the edge of the jungle, practicing the tactics he knew well by himself. His spear moved effortlessly in his hands, cutting through the air with a sharp whistling sound. Although his face was filled with anger, deep inside he was hiding another, more complicated emotion.

Lando struggled inwardly. “I do not want to see the tribe divided because of Rocky, but I cannot give up Diana either.” He stopped moving and gazed toward the tribe in the distance, his heart heavy. “I must win. This is not only for the tribe, but also for myself.”

Although Lando appeared strong on the outside, his heart was actually filled with confusion and pain. He knew that he was not only competing with Rocky for Diana’s affection, but also fighting to maintain his position and honor within the tribe.

The scorching sun beat down upon the land, and the atmosphere in the square at the center of the tribe was tense. Rocky stood there holding Lando’s challenge letter, his brows slightly furrowed. Nicole stood beside him, her face filled with anxiety.

“Rocky, this is too dangerous. Don’t go to Flying Dragon Valley,” Nicole urged softly, concern in her voice. “You are not familiar with the terrain there, and flying dragons are not creatures that can be easily tamed.”

Rocky looked at her, determination flashing in his eyes. “I cannot back down, Nicole. Lando’s challenge is public. If I refuse, I will not only lose the tribe’s respect, but I will also be unable to resolve this conflict.” His voice was low and filled with resolve.

Nicole tightly grasped Rocky’s arm. “But you have only just arrived here. Is it worth risking your life for their beliefs?”

Rocky gently lowered Nicole’s hand from his arm, his eyes gentle yet resolute. “Sometimes, a person has to pay a price to earn trust.”

Just then, Diana approached from a distance. Her normally stern expression carried a trace of excitement. “Rocky, I am willing to be your guide. The road to Flying Dragon Valley is treacherous. Without me leading you, it will be difficult for you to reach it.” Her voice was firm, and her eyes revealed a certain admiration for Rocky.

Rocky nodded and looked at her gratefully. “Then let’s go.”

Flying Dragon Valley lay northeast of the tribe. The terrain was treacherous, surrounded by sheer cliffs, and only a few people familiar with the terrain could reach it safely. Rocky, Diana, and Lando set out along two separate routes.

25: The Contest Between the Two Sides

Lando moved with the agility of a leopard and had already arrived ahead of them. He stood at the edge of a cliff, narrowing his eyes as he watched a powerful flying dragon in the distance. The dragon’s entire body was covered with blue-brown fur. It stood on a rocky platform with its wings slightly spread, apparently alert to the unfamiliar warrior. Lando tightened his grip on the rope, preparing to seize the right moment to act.

Meanwhile, Rocky and Diana leisurely arrived at the entrance of a cave, where several flying dragons were circling nearby. Diana’s eyes were sharp as she surveyed the group of flying dragons, trying to find the one most suitable for taming.

“Look at that flying dragon with the golden mane. It seems to be the leader of this group,” Diana said quietly, pointing to a huge flying dragon.

Rocky looked in the direction she pointed. The golden dragon was curled up at the entrance of the cave. Although its body was enormous and its eyes were sharp, it appeared somewhat listless. Rocky frowned slightly. After quietly observing it for a while, a sense of doubt arose in his mind. “There’s something unusual about this flying dragon.”

“It’s either injured or poisoned,” Rocky whispered, compassion and determination showing in his eyes. He raised both hands and opened his palms, signaling that he meant no harm. “We’re here to help you. Don’t be afraid.”

The golden dragon warily let out a low growl, its forked tongue flicking slightly in warning, but it did not attack immediately. Rocky steadied his breathing and said gently, “Don’t be afraid. I’ll help relieve your pain.”

Diana stood silently to one side, gripping her bow and arrows, her expression alert. “Are you sure this will work?” she asked quietly.

Rocky nodded slightly and approached with slow, gentle steps. When he drew close to the golden dragon, he suddenly noticed that an arrow was lodged in its left wing. The arrowhead had turned black and had clearly been coated with poison. The wound had already begun to fester and gave off a faint foul smell.

“I see it. The arrowhead was coated with poison.” Rocky gestured to Diana to remain calm, then said to the flying dragon, “I need to remove this arrow so you can recover.”

The golden dragon seemed to understand Rocky’s intention. It gradually lowered its guard and gently spread its left wing, revealing the wound.

Rocky pulled out his dagger and carefully cut open the wound that had been corroded by the poison, then slowly removed the arrow. He immediately took a mayapple from his bag, crushed it, and carefully dripped the milky-white juice into the wound.

The golden dragon trembled slightly but did not resist. Rocky then took two more mayapples from his bag, placed them flat on his palm, and slowly held them out toward the golden dragon’s mouth. The golden dragon lowered its head, sniffed the mayapples, and then carefully swallowed them.

“It knows what these mayapples can do,” Rocky said quietly to Diana, a glimmer of hope flashing in his eyes.

A moment later, the golden dragon closed its eyes and began to rest. Its breathing became steady, and its body was no longer as tense.

Diana walked over to Rocky, admiration shining in her eyes. “It looks like you really have won over a flying dragon. This golden dragon is obviously the leader of this group. Lando probably won’t have an easy time winning now.”

Suddenly, the golden dragon opened its eyes and gazed at Rocky with a piercing stare. Then it stood up, gently flapped its wings, and bowed three times before Rocky, symbolizing the flying dragon’s submission and gratitude.

Rocky sensed the golden dragon’s goodwill. He bent slightly at the waist and accepted the symbolic salute. “You’re willing to become my companion, too,” he said softly, his voice filled with joy and respect.

Diana smiled and gently patted Rocky on the shoulder. “Congratulations, Rocky. You now have the tribe’s most powerful mount. Now let’s see how Lando deals with this.”

The setting sun cast its afterglow across the cliffs of Flying Dragon Valley, and golden-red light shimmered among the rocks, creating a magnificent scene. Lando had successfully looped the rope around the neck of the blue-brown flying dragon, and fine beads of sweat had appeared on his forehead. The flying dragon was suddenly startled. It violently flapped its wings, and its roar echoed through the empty valley like thunder.

“Oh no!” Lando cried out. The rope in his hands was instantly pulled taut by the tremendous force, and his body was lifted into the sky along with the flying dragon. His legs swung in midair, and fear showed in his eyes. He clung desperately to the rope, knowing that if he let go, he would fall dozens of yards to the bottom of the valley, which would mean certain death.

The flying dragon circling in midair was agitated and restless. It continually twisted its body, trying to shake off the terrifying object clinging to it. Lando could only grit his teeth as his heart raced. He could feel his strength rapidly draining away. “Damn flying dragon, stop!” he screamed inwardly, but there was nothing he could do.

At that moment, Rocky and Diana had already seen Lando’s predicament from the cave entrance. A trace of anxiety flashed in Rocky’s eyes, but he quickly regained his composure. He patted the golden dragon beside him and said quietly, “We have to help him.”

The golden dragon let out a low rumbling sound and intelligently nodded. It then lowered its body, signaling Rocky to climb onto its back. Rocky calmly mounted the golden dragon and gently patted its neck with his palm. “Let’s go, Golden Dragon. Take flight.”

The golden dragon suddenly spread its wings. Its enormous wings cut through the air, generating a powerful gust of wind, while sand, stones, and fallen leaves swirled around it. Rocky sat firmly on the dragon’s back, his eyes fixed on Lando in the distance.

The flying dragon moved with lightning speed. Rocky felt the air rushing past his ears. His heartbeat gradually steadied as Lando and the blue flying dragon drew closer and closer. Rocky leaned down close to the dragon’s back, gripping the golden dragon’s scales tightly with his legs, preparing to rescue Lando at the critical moment.

Lando’s breathing had become rapid, and his arms trembled from holding onto the rope for so long. He looked down at the deep valley beneath his feet, terror filling his heart. His throat was dry, and he was almost ready to give up. “I can’t die here. I haven’t beaten Rocky yet. I can’t die!” he screamed inwardly.

“Lando!” Suddenly, Rocky’s voice came from above. Lando struggled to raise his head and saw Rocky rapidly approaching on the golden dragon. Rocky reached out his hand and shouted at Lando, “Grab my hand!”

Lando’s vision was blurred and his mind was in chaos, but he knew this was his only chance. He gritted his teeth, endured his exhaustion, released one hand, and risked falling to reach toward Rocky.

Rocky grabbed Lando around the waist and suddenly pulled him onto the golden dragon’s back. Lando’s entire body crashed heavily onto the dragon’s scales. Gasping for breath and still shaken with fear, he lay there and looked at the blue flying dragon that was still circling in the sky. A mixture of shame and gratitude surged through his heart.

“Are you all right?” Rocky patted Lando on the shoulder, his voice calm and concerned.

Lando’s face was pale. He nodded with difficulty, but his heart felt heavy. He had originally wanted to prove that he was stronger than Rocky, but now Rocky had saved him. The bitterness of this defeat was almost unbearable.

The flying dragons swept across the sky beneath the setting sun, carrying two men and one woman, each riding a different dragon, until they finally landed in the tribe’s large square. The tribespeople had already gathered around. Young and old alike stared at the spectacular scene without blinking. The enormous wings of the golden dragon, blue dragon, and pink dragon gently beat against the ground, producing heavy sounds as they landed, while exclamations of amazement rose one after another.

“This is truly incredible!” An elder stroked his beard, excitement shining in his eyes. “They really succeeded!”

Lando slowly climbed down from the dragon’s back, his face deathly pale. He knew that he had lost this battle, and that he had lost completely. He lowered his head, removed the long curved sword from his waist, and held it out with both hands to the tribal chief, Sammias, showing that he acknowledged his defeat.

“I lost...” Lando’s voice was weak, filled with resentment and guilt.

However, just then, a hand pressed down on his arm. Lando suddenly raised his head and met Rocky’s gaze. Rocky’s hand firmly pressed against the hilt of the sword in Lando’s hands. His voice was firm yet gentle. “You don’t have to do this, Lando. Stay here and come with me to Flying Dragon Valley. Let’s uncover the truth behind the ruins of the ancient city.”

Lando froze. Rocky’s words pierced his heart like a blade. This was a conclusion he had never expected, and it shocked him even more than his defeat. Rocky had no intention of driving him out of the tribe, nor did he intend to take away his honor. Instead, he had given him another choice—a chance to fight alongside him.

“Why?” Lando asked quietly, his eyes filled with confusion.

Rocky looked at him and smiled slightly. “Because we are all members of the tribe. No matter who wins or loses, our goal is the same.”

Lando lowered his head and remained silent for a moment before finally nodding. He slowly drew back his curved sword, then straightened his body and took a deep breath. “All right, Rocky. I’ll go with you to Flying Dragon Valley.”

26: Exploring the Secrets of Flying Dragon Valley

The sky above Flying Dragon Valley was still a deep blue, with white clouds hanging low over the towering mountain ridges, seeming to foreshadow the beginning of an extraordinary adventure. After the tribe’s priests performed a blessing ritual, Rocky, Lando, and Diana slowly walked out from the altar. Ancient incantations echoed through the sky, while the deep sound of drums gradually faded into the distance. Rocky turned his head and looked at the altar they had just left, his heart sinking slightly, as if some unknown force were calling them onward.

The three of them each mounted a flying dragon and flew toward Flying Dragon Valley.

“This expedition will be very dangerous,” Rocky shouted, his eyes focused on the entrance to Flying Dragon Valley ahead. “We have to make every possible preparation.”

Lando snorted softly and touched the curved sword at his waist, a trace of boldness on his face. “What’s there to be afraid of? Besides, we have you as our fearless leader. I want to see exactly what secrets are hidden here.”

Diana smiled faintly beside them. She could always sense the invisible competition between the two men. “All right, stop putting on a brave face, Lando. The ancient civilization here is far more mysterious and dangerous than you imagine.” As she spoke, she slung her bow and arrows over her back, ready to deal with any unexpected situation.

Their three mounts landed on a small platform at the top of Flying Dragon Valley. Rocky led the way through the dense jungle of Flying Dragon Valley. Leaves brushed against their armor and clothing, while the soil beneath their feet was wet, slippery, and sticky. Low growls from wild beasts could be heard from time to time within the jungle, sending chills down their spines. After walking for a long time, they finally passed through the forest, and a vast view opened before them.

“Oh my...” Rocky exclaimed in amazement, his gaze falling upon a towering pyramid in the distance. The pyramid stood silently deep within the jungle, like a sleeping giant, isolated from the world. Even more astonishing was the clear remains of streets on the ground surrounding the pyramid. The outlines of the ruins were faintly visible, resembling an ancient city buried by time.

“Looks like we’ve discovered an ancient civilization,” Rocky said, his brows tightly furrowed as countless questions arose in his mind.

Diana said, “People once lived here, and it was a highly advanced civilization...”

Lando moved a little closer, undisguised curiosity in his eyes. “They didn’t merely live here. This place even had fairly sophisticated public facilities.” He pointed toward the remains of an aqueduct and bathhouse in the distance, a trace of awe in his voice. “These facilities show that their technology for living in harmony with nature was more advanced than that of our tribe.”

Diana looked around and walked toward a relatively well-preserved ruin, gently touching the murals on the stone wall. “These designs... record their lives and beliefs.” She took out a charcoal pencil and carefully copied the hieroglyphic writing from the mural into her notebook. “They worshiped nature and prayed at the altar. There must be more secrets here waiting for us to uncover.”

Rocky carefully examined every corner and drew a map of the city on a yellowed page. The lines on the paper gradually connected, depicting the locations of the ancient streets, bathhouse, aqueduct, and altar. The scale and exquisite craftsmanship of the ruins left him deeply astonished.

“The layout of this city is quite comprehensive. Clearly, it once had a glorious history,” Rocky said, his voice filled with barely contained excitement.

“Where do we go next?” Lando’s eyes swept across the surroundings, but a trace of uneasiness remained in his heart. This silent city seemed to be hinting at some kind of danger. He could not help tightening his grip on his curved sword, ready to face whatever danger might appear at any moment.

“The altar,” Diana suddenly said, a glimmer flashing in her eyes. “The altar here may be hiding a secret.”

The three quickly moved toward the altar. When they stood before the ancient stone platform, Diana’s gaze suddenly stopped on a small groove. “Wait... something isn’t right here.” She crouched down and carefully examined the stone wall, running her finger along the groove and sensing an unusual texture.

“This is a mechanism!” she exclaimed excitedly, then waved to Rocky and Lando. “Come help me take a look.”

Rocky stepped forward and carefully examined the hieroglyphic writing hidden on the stone wall. “These symbols... seem to be indicating the location of some kind of switch,” he murmured to himself. Then, following the directions on the wall, he decisively pressed down on a particular stone.

As a low mechanical sound began to rumble, the stone wall slowly opened, revealing a hidden stone staircase that wound downward into a dark and unknown realm.

“An underground palace?” Lando stared at the long-hidden secret in shock.

“Let’s go down and take a look.” Rocky held a torch in one hand and led the way toward the stone staircase. Diana and Lando followed behind him, each with different thoughts in mind. Diana was filled with curiosity and excitement, wondering what secrets lay hidden behind this ancient civilization. Lando, meanwhile, kept a firm grip on his weapon, guarding against any danger that might appear.

When they entered the dark underground palace, the air around them became colder and more humid. The walls were covered with various ancient patterns and symbols, telling the story of a long-lost history. Diana took a fire striker from her waist and struck it gently, sending sparks onto a torch mounted on the wall.

To their surprise, the torch they had lit was connected to another torch farther below. The flames spread along the walls, lighting one torch after another until the entire underground palace was illuminated. The once-silent space was now bathed in firelight, revealing a vast and magnificent architectural structure. Towering stone columns supported the vaulted ceiling, while exquisite reliefs and totems were carved into the stone walls. The palace was filled with a mysterious and ancient atmosphere.

“This place is truly incredible...” Rocky murmured, overwhelmed by the shock of what he was seeing.

“What exactly have we discovered?” Lando asked quietly, his eyes sweeping back and forth across the palace as he sensed an ominous warning.

Diana’s eyes were filled with a desire to explore. She took a deep breath. “Whatever it is, the secrets here have been hidden for far too long.”

The three exchanged glances, then silently continued forward into the unknown darkness deeper inside the underground palace. They knew that the real adventure had only just begun.

27: Uncovering the Mysteries of the Underground Palace

Under the faint light of the torches, Rocky, Diana, and Lando slowly descended the winding stone staircase. Every step echoed through the silent underground palace, answering the uneasiness and excitement in their hearts. The firelight flickered across the ancient symbols deeply carved into the stone walls, as if whispering to them about long-forgotten secrets.

When they finally reached a large, semi-elliptical hall, the firelight suddenly illuminated the entire space. The hall was spacious and solemn, with stone tables and chairs arranged in orderly rows and preserved in surprisingly good condition. Every stone seemed to tell of countless discussions and decisions that had once taken place here. The entire hall was laid out as a large council chamber. At the front, a long stone table and several rows of stone chairs stood silently, as if still waiting for the former holders of power to return.

Standing before the platform at the front of the hall, Rocky was involuntarily drawn to an upright stone tablet. Dozens of differently colored gemstones were embedded in the tablet, surrounding two lines of exquisite hieroglyphic writing. Most striking of all was the dragon-headed scepter in the center, inlaid with gemstones of five colors. Its golden shaft shimmered with a mysterious light in the firelight. Rocky stepped closer, staring intently at the hieroglyphic writing. His brows furrowed slightly, and then he seemed to understand its meaning.

“These hieroglyphics mean... ‘The Scepter of Power of the City of Flying Dragons. Future generations and descendants must not touch it.’” Rocky spoke quietly, his tone carrying a trace of solemnity. He looked up at Diana and Lando, the warning in his eyes unmistakable. “The meaning is very clear. We’d better not touch this scepter.”

Lando stood to one side with his arms crossed, but a trace of hesitation flashed through his eyes. “Not touch it? That’s a golden scepter inlaid with gemstones. Who knows how much it’s worth?” His tone was provocative, clearly skeptical of Rocky’s warning.

Diana quietly stared at the scepter, a trace of curiosity and desire for exploration in her eyes. “Perhaps... this scepter is not merely a symbol. It may also represent some kind of power.” She spoke softly, as if weighing whether they should explore the true meaning of this relic further.

Rocky narrowed his eyes, unable to suppress a sense of uneasiness. “This was once a highly advanced civilization. They would never have left a warning like this without a reason.” He turned and looked at the other two. “We need to be cautious. This is not merely an ancient ruin. It may also contain dangers beyond our imagination.”

Lando raised an eyebrow. Although he said nothing, his desire for the unknown treasure had not completely disappeared. He finally nodded and followed Rocky and Diana out of the mysterious council chamber.

They entered a narrow passageway, their footsteps echoing between the walls as the torchlight ahead once again illuminated the next space. At the end of the passage, they stepped into a vast library. Metal plates were neatly arranged along the surrounding walls, each reflecting a metallic sheen, as if waiting to be opened again.

“Are these... books?” Diana stepped forward and gently brushed her hand across one of the metal plates, feeling its cold surface.

Rocky walked over to the information desk and scanned the neatly arranged metal plates. Suddenly, an idea flashed through his mind. He pulled one of them from the shelves. The heavy metallic feel surprised him, but as he examined it carefully, a look of understanding appeared on his face.

“These... are tablet computers,” he murmured, his voice filled with unmistakable astonishment. “The people of this ancient civilization possessed technology more advanced than ours.”

“What? Tablet computers?” Lando looked even more confused. He leaned closer, his eyes widening. “Are you sure you’re not joking?”

Rocky ignored Lando’s question. Instead, he carefully pressed the symbol in the lower-right corner of the tablet and gently placed his index finger on it. A soft light rose from the tablet. A window then popped up, and a string of hieroglyphic writing flashed across the screen.

“These words...” Rocky opened one of the folders and entered several simple English words. A series of translated words immediately appeared on the screen, asking, “What information would you like to know?”

Diana opened her mouth in astonishment. She moved closer, her eyes filled with curiosity. “What exactly is this? How did you do that?”

Lando could not help moving closer as well, intense interest in his eyes. “This thing can actually still work? And it can even respond to our questions?”

Rocky calmly looked up at the two of them and smiled slightly. “This book allows us to access a great deal of knowledge. It can answer our questions.” His gaze became focused and serious. “Perhaps this is the key to unlocking the secrets of these ruins.”

“This is unbelievable,” Diana murmured, still unable to fully accept everything before her. “How advanced was the civilization here?”

Lando could not help asking, “Then what can we ask it? Should we ask about the history of this palace? Or the origins of those gemstones?”

Rocky nodded gently. “We can ask it anything.” His gaze remained fixed on the screen as he had already begun planning how to use this mysterious device to uncover the hidden secrets within the ruins.

The firelight in the palace flickered gently, and the three people’s shadows crossed one another on the walls. This ancient yet advanced civilization was waiting for them to uncover more answers.

Under the soft light of the library, Rocky carefully examined the ancient medical encyclopedia. Its cover was made of gold and gave off a metallic sheen. His fingers gently slid across the touchscreen as he entered several keywords. The screen immediately responded, displaying an illustrated article. Pictures of various plants and animals appeared across the pages. Their colors were vivid and their details lifelike, as if they could instantly transport them back into the depths of those ancient forests.

Rocky’s eyes remained focused on every image displayed on the screen. His fingertips moved smoothly across the screen as he carefully examined every detail in the pictures. Lando stood beside him, his eyes also scanning the images on the screen.

“These plants...” Lando’s voice was filled with surprise. “I’ve seen some of them on the island, and I even know about their medicinal effects.”

He pointed to a bright red plant on the screen and said excitedly, “This red-flowering plant is called Firebird Wood. It can treat burns. I’ve used it before!”

Diana was equally fascinated by the information. Excitement shone in her eyes. “It actually contains such a wealth of knowledge. We can learn so many useful things from it.”

Rocky nodded in agreement. “This Golden Book of Knowledge records all the animals, plants, and medical knowledge of this city. It will be extremely helpful for our future adventures.” A trace of determination flashed in his eyes. “I’ve decided to take it with us. It will become an indispensable tool.”

The three continued exploring the library for a while, making sure they had not overlooked any useful information. In the end, they returned to the council chamber with a wealth of discoveries.

28: Rescuing the Tribe from an Epidemic

When they rode their flying dragons back to the tribal square, the scene before them left them stunned. The entire tribe was eerily quiet, and an invisible sense of oppression filled the air. Rocky, Diana, and Lando dismounted from their flying dragons and looked at one another, their hearts filled with confusion and uneasiness.

Just then, Nicole emerged from the shadows of the trees, her face showing traces of exhaustion and anxiety. “You’re back!” Her voice was filled with surprise and urgency. “You don’t know this, but an entire year has passed since you left!”

Rocky, Diana, and Lando looked at one another in shock. Rocky muttered quietly, “We only spent one day in Flying Dragon Valley and the underground palace. How has an entire year already passed in the tribe?”

Nicole’s expression became even more solemn. She took a deep breath and continued, “Not long after you left, a group of giant bats with human-like faces appeared on the island. They looked extremely horrifying. Under cover of darkness, those bats entered the tribe and drained the blood from the livestock.”

Sadness showed in her voice. “The tribespeople soon began to fall ill. The chief, the High Priest, and many of the other elderly tribespeople became infected and died one after another. The tribespeople could only carry the bodies of the dead to the beach and burn them in order to slow the spread of the disease.”

Rocky’s heart jolted. Looking at Nicole’s exhausted face, he felt a heavy sense of responsibility. “The situation is this serious? We must take action immediately.”

Diana clenched her fists, determination burning in her eyes. “We have to find the source of the bats and protect the tribespeople.”

Lando also nodded in agreement, determination shining in his eyes. “Let’s first find out what the tribe’s current situation is, and then we can discuss what to do.”

Led by Nicole, the three quickly headed toward the tribal hospital inside the cave and the areas where the tribespeople lived. Every step was urgent. They knew that the challenge before them would be the greatest test they had ever faced.

After listening to Nicole’s account, Rocky’s brows drew tightly together, and his heart began beating rapidly. He instinctively felt that this sudden outbreak of disease might be related to a coronavirus. He quickly organized his thoughts, knowing that he had to find a definite answer. He turned to Diana and Lando. “We need to examine the sick members of the tribe immediately and see whether their symptoms match the characteristics of a coronavirus.”

They followed Nicole to the tribal hospital inside the cave. The hospital ward was made of rough stone walls and stone floors. The lighting was dim, with only a few torches casting faint light. Inside the wards, tribespeople lay on crude beds, their expressions filled with pain and their breathing rapid. The air was filled with a faint smell of medicine and disease. Rocky put on a coconut-shell mask and carefully examined the patients’ symptoms, concern filling his focused eyes.

“These symptoms do indeed match the characteristics of a coronavirus.” Rocky’s voice was calm and decisive. “This is an ancient coronavirus that seems to live on the island’s human-faced bats.”

After confirming his conclusion, Rocky’s thoughts quickly turned to the Golden Book of Knowledge. He took the gleaming golden book from his backpack and opened the screen. His fingers rapidly entered a string of English words on the touchscreen, searching for information about the transmission and treatment of coronavirus. The screen immediately displayed a detailed article containing information about the routes of transmission, symptoms, treatment methods, and how to develop a vaccine and a specific drug.

“This provides detailed information and procedures.” Rocky turned to Nicole, Diana, and Lando. “We need to follow these instructions to make a vaccine and a specific drug. That is the only way we can bring the epidemic under control.”

With Nicole, Diana, and Lando giving him their full assistance, Rocky began the difficult preparations. They found suitable materials near the tribe and first fired glass containers. Smoke billowed inside the crude furnace, while the glass containers glimmered with a dim light in the fire. Rocky carefully followed the steps in the Golden Book of Knowledge, mixing the chemical components and gradually developing a vaccine and a specific drug.

Once the vaccine and specific drug had been developed, Rocky and his team quickly distributed the medicines to the sick members of the tribe. The tribespeople received the medicines with hopeful expressions and took them according to the instructions. As time passed, the coronavirus outbreak in the tribe was effectively brought under control, the patients gradually recovered, and this unprecedented crisis was finally overcome.

Meanwhile, the young hunting team led by Lando and Diana successfully drove away the giant bats, forcing them to leave the island. The enormous bats struggled in the night sky before finally disappearing into the distant horizon, and peace once again returned to the island.

As peace returned to the tribe, Rocky stood in the tribal square and gazed at the star-filled night sky, his heart overflowing with emotion. He realized that he had developed a deep emotional connection to this land. He turned to Diana, Lando, and Nicole beside him, and his decision became clear.

“This adventure has given me a deeper understanding of this land.” Rocky’s voice was low and warm. “I’ve decided to stay on the island for the time being, continue exploring the wisdom contained within these ancient ruins, and help the tribe establish a way of life that combines traditional and modern civilization.”

Diana and Lando exchanged glances, their eyes showing understanding and support. Nicole smiled and nodded. “We’re very happy that you can stay here. The tribe needs your wisdom and help.”

Rocky’s heart was filled with hope and determination. He knew that he had found a new mission and purpose on this land. Beneath the night sky, the lights of the tribe flickered softly, lighting a path toward the future for him.

26. “Dinosaur Parents”

I am a self-employed psychotherapist, and I often encounter all kinds of bizarre psychological patients. One day, an elementary school teacher came to see me with dark circles under her eyes. Her chief complaint was that she repeatedly had the same nightmare. Every time she woke up in terror, she found it almost impossible to fall asleep again. As a result, she had been suffering from chronic sleep deprivation, and both her mental and physical condition had been steadily deteriorating.

After listening to her description, my initial assessment was that her sleep disorder was caused by an anxiety disorder. I asked her a series of questions about her personal life and work, and I quickly identified the source of her anxiety. It turned out that a dinosaur mother had always been prejudiced against her and repeatedly picked on minor faults in her teaching. The dinosaur mom’s child was extremely naughty and mischievous, and usually bossed his classmates around and frequently played tricks on his teacher. What the mother was really plotting, however, was how to get this old-maid-level homeroom teacher removed from her position so that she could be replaced by a younger female teacher who was more pleasing to her eye.

I comforted her and told her that I would help her find a way to relieve her mental stress. After the female teacher accepted my hypnosis, I immediately took the props out of my equipment case and said to her, “I’m going to enter your dream and hunt down that dinosaur mother with you.” I then put on Iron Man’s armor, strapped a case of “armor weapons” onto my back, and stepped into her dream.

I witnessed the scene with my own eyes. Several velociraptors were chasing the poor female protagonist. She was barely clothed and looked utterly disheveled as she desperately ran toward a large tree and frantically climbed up its trunk. The velociraptors circled the tree, roaring, jumping, and making a racket. She kept climbing higher and higher until she was about twenty meters above the ground.

I pulled a powerful longbow and a barrel of explosive arrows from the case on my back, jumped onto a pile of large rocks, and fired downward from a commanding position. One arrow after another went “whoosh, whoosh, whoosh” toward the velociraptors. The moment an arrow struck one of them, it exploded, sending blood and flesh flying in every direction. Two of the smaller ones sensed that things were going badly and turned to run, but my explosive arrows still caught up with them, blowing them apart into two showers of flesh. I figured that these velociraptors must have been the naughty troublemakers in her class.

The female protagonist, still shaken by the terrifying ordeal, slowly slid down from the tree. Her face had gone completely pale with fear, and she was so frightened that she even forgot to say “Thank you.” I walked up to her, took Superwoman’s armor and a stretchy bodysuit out of my equipment case, and instructed her, “Put these on. I’ll take you to find the female Tyrannosaurus that has been hunting you.”

“You’ve never seen that female Tyrannosaurus. She’s really terrifying. My tribe has been attacked by her again and again, and she has eaten my people one after another. I strongly suspect that she has evolved human intelligence,” the female protagonist said, choking back sobs and trembling as she spoke.

“Don’t be afraid. I’ll take you to find her. This time, you’re going to play the hunter.” I motioned for her to put on the close-fitting gear. “Where does this bad creature usually appear?”

“She’ll probably be in the valley over there behind those hills at this time. There are many herbivorous dinosaurs there.” The female protagonist freed one hand and pointed toward a line of low hills ahead on the right.

After the female protagonist had put on all the close-fitting gear, I handed her a laser gun and taught her how to disengage the safety and use the infrared sight.

“Tonight, we’ll sneak into the valley and let you personally tear that female Tyrannosaurus into pieces.” I patted her shoulder confidently and continued, “Right now, you are Superwoman. You possess superpowers that you can easily control with your mind. Along the way, you can easily hunt down any dinosaur that harbors hostility toward you.”

I took her with me on a flying motorcycle and crossed the hills. At dusk, we quietly approached the entrance to the valley. To boost the female protagonist’s confidence, I told her to use the laser gun to slice across one wing of a pterosaur circling at low altitude. She followed my instructions. A laser beam swept across one of the pterosaur’s wings, and the wing was immediately sliced off. The pterosaur then lost its balance and plunged to the ground. After witnessing the power of the laser gun, a smile finally blossomed across the female protagonist’s face.

I led the female protagonist into the valley, with me in front and her bringing up the rear. We passed many herbivorous dinosaurs sleeping in their dreams and also encountered a group of velociraptors fighting over a carcass. We quietly avoided them so they would not come after us and cause trouble. Later, we found a very large and deep cave. At the entrance, I discovered Tyrannosaurus footprints and droppings.

“The enemy is hidden in the darkness while we are exposed in the open.” I concluded that the creature must be hiding deep inside the cave, fast asleep. So I immediately decided to hunt a small herbivorous dinosaur first, cut it into several large chunks of meat, and bury remote-controlled grenades deep inside the pieces. Once the creature woke up the next morning and swallowed the chunks of meat, I would detonate the grenades one by one and put on a spectacular “Tyrannosaurus Mambo Dance.” Once the plan was settled, the two of us went hunting for a herbivorous dinosaur. After considerable effort, we cut it into several chunks of meat and dragged them back to the cave entrance. Once everything was set up, we climbed onto a small platform above the cave, found a place to sleep, and waited to watch the “Tyrannosaurus Mambo Show” the following morning.

What happened next was quite spectacular. The starving female Tyrannosaurus stood at the cave entrance, facing the chunks of carcass scattered across the ground. First, she cautiously sniffed them all over. After confirming that the meat was fresh and had no strange odor, she began to feast. After swallowing the last piece of meat and letting out a series of satisfied belches, I began to “torture” her. One after another, I slowly pressed the detonation buttons on the grenades. The female Tyrannosaurus began spinning around in place and dancing the mambo. Streams of blood sprayed from her belly, and she spun and spun like a rotating fountain. After about fifteen minutes, she collapsed helplessly onto the ground, with only her eyes still able to move. At that point, I called to the female protagonist, “Let’s go down into the cave and let you take revenge with your own hands.”

Of course, the ending was that the female protagonist used the laser gun to tear the female Tyrannosaurus into pieces. She cried and laughed at the same time, and I knew that her psychological stress had been completely relieved. Only then did I quietly leave, step out of her dream, and wake her up.

A few days later, a woman in her thirties who was still youthful and attractive came to see me with her son. Both mother and son had the same dark circles under their eyes. After listening to the mother describe her symptoms, my initial assessment was that her sleep disorder was caused by panic disorder. I asked her a series of questions about her personal life and work, and I quickly identified the source of her anxiety.

“My son and I have no idea what’s going on lately. Every night, we have the same nightmare. My son dreams that he and a group of classmates are shot by some kind of arrows, and then their entire bodies explode. My son says those arrows look a lot like the explosive arrows Rambo uses in the sequel to First Blood. As for me, after eating several pieces of Australian diced steak, I get severe stomach pain, and then streams of blood burst out of my belly…”

It turned out that this mother and son were the very dinosaur mother and her mama’s boy who had been making trouble for the female teacher all along.

I hypnotized the mother and then told her a fantasy story called “The Female Tyrannosaurus Does the Mambo.” At the end, I sternly reminded her that she must take her son to apologize to his homeroom teacher because she did not understand the importance of respecting teachers and honoring the teaching profession, and she had angered the champion of justice…

A few days later, the female teacher called me and said that the dinosaur parent had brought her son into the classroom, voluntarily confessed her wrongdoing to her, and treated the entire class to buckets of gummy candy.