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Cultivation of Secrets

In "Cultivation of Secrets," the tranquil harmony of Pinecrest Village, a unique blend of ancient Xianxia traditions and modern technology, is shattered by a chilling murder during the festive Christmas season. The victim, Mike, a notorious village bully, is found lifeless under the twinkling festive lights, setting off a complex investigation that delves deep into the hidden facets of the village and its inhabitants. Elder Lin, a respected figure skilled in both cultivation arts and technological matters, leads the investigation. He navigates a labyrinth of secrets and motives, uncovering the intricate lives of the villagers who are potential suspects. Each character possesses a unique combination of cultivation abilities and technological expertise, casting a web of suspicion over the village. Benny, the tech prodigy; Beth, an aficionado of true crime novels; Becca, a victim of Mike’s bullying; Ray, with her level-headed composure; Fredde, the quiet optimist; Donni, the laid-back observer; Justine, a creative fan-fiction writer; and Mich, a devoted admirer of Justine, all emerge as complex characters with potential motives for the crime. As Elder Lin delves into the investigation, he encounters a series of cryptic clues, anonymous threats, and conflicting alibis, each pointing to different suspects. The story weaves through the perspectives and backstories of these characters, exploring themes of unrequited love, jealousy, revenge, and the human capacity for both good and evil. Set against the backdrop of a world where cultivation arts mesh with cutting-edge technology, "Cultivation of Secrets" is a tale of mystery and suspense. The narrative unfolds in a series of chapters that deepen the intrigue, with each character revealing unexpected depths and secrets.

BenzaFisher · Fantasi
Peringkat tidak cukup
10 Chs

Fredde's Unseen Facet

Continuing his meticulous investigation, Elder Lin next sought out Fredde, whose quiet and optimistic nature often kept him out of the village's more turbulent dynamics. However, in a mystery as deep as Mike's murder, no stone could be left unturned.

Fredde lived in a cosy house on the edge of the village, its interior reflecting his warm and inviting personality. Shelves of colourful books, gadgets for various hobbies, and pictures of happy memories adorned the walls.

Elder Lin was greeted with a friendly smile. "Elder Lin, what brings you here? I hope it's not just about the tragedy."

"It is, I'm afraid," Elder Lin replied solemnly. "Fredde, you're known to be a peaceful person, but I must ask everyone. Did you have any issues with Mike?"

Fredde's expression turned sombre. "Mike was difficult, but I believe in looking for the good in people. We had our differences, but nothing serious. I avoid conflict when I can."

Elder Lin noticed a series of photographs showing various village events. "Were you at the Christmas festival the entire time?"

"Yes, I was there with friends, enjoying the festivities. I saw Mike in passing, but that was all. We didn't interact," Fredde explained.

Elder Lin's gaze lingered on a photo of Fredde at a cultivation seminar. "Your cultivation practice focuses on inner peace and harmony. Do you think someone in the village could have used their cultivation skills in a harmful way?"

Fredde nodded thoughtfully. "Cultivation can enhance one's abilities, but it can also amplify darker impulses. It's not impossible, Elder Lin. In our village, where the line between good and evil can be thin, anyone could succumb to their shadow side."

With the realization that the tranquil surface of Pinecrest Village concealed depths of complexity and contradiction. Fredde's belief in the inherent goodness of people contrasted sharply with the grim reality of Mike's death. The investigation was revealing the multifaceted nature of each villager, challenging Elder Lin to look beyond the obvious to uncover the truth hidden in the shadows of their cultivation and technological world.