"The world we currently perceive," Jin began, his tone serious, "is, in fact, only a small part of this world."
"A small part?" Kevin wondered if he had misheard, but he didn't interrupt.
He hadn't meticulously studied the world map's data, but the landmass of this world was undeniably vast, likely comparable to his old world. For such an expanse to be called a 'small part' seemed… unreasonable.
"In certain eras, in certain regions, some chosen individuals left records about the 'outside' in their relics." So, Jin, through his decades of excavating and deciphering ruins, had pieced together information about this so-called 'outside'.
Kevin listened, his mind racing.
"In the 'outside' world, our currently known world is located on an archipelago within a lake called Mobius Lake."
"Ah?" This time, Kevin couldn't help but interrupt. "It's not that I don't believe you, it's just… the information you're providing is truly beyond my expectations. Are you saying that the known world, composed of these continents, is just a small island chain in a lake within the entire world?"
It wasn't that he didn't believe Jin, but this statement was practically overturning his entire frame of reference. How big would the entire world have to be? If there was also a concept of a universe, then this must be a colossal planet. The gravity on such a massive planet shouldn't be… Never mind. If Nen exists, then other things can be handwaved.
Jin wasn't annoyed by the interruption. He understood. When he'd first learned this information, his own reaction had been far more exaggerated—he'd practically been jumping around like a monkey.
"No one can be sure how vast this world truly is," Jin continued. "But the information gleaned from various ruins is enough to confirm that the area we inhabit can indeed only be called a 'lake.' You should know that throughout history, countless ambitious individuals have attempted to reach the 'outside' and have brought back a wealth of relevant information."
As he spoke, Jin gave an example. "Three hundred years ago, a fantasy novel titled 'Journey to the New Continent' was published. The book records the author's own experiences exploring the Boundless Shore, and this is merely the 'East' volume."
In reality, this seemingly fictional work depicted a real world. Kevin could probably guess what followed.
"Later, people discovered the book's contents were a true account. Soon, the great powers sealed these books and purged all remaining relevant information. The book recorded various terrifying phenomena and creatures, and also mentioned many… dreamlike items."
Such a description filled Kevin with doubt. In his eyes, the current world, with Nen layered on top, was already fantastical enough. What could possibly still be called 'dreamlike' under these circumstances?
Jin seemed to notice his skepticism and offered an example. "For instance, there's something called 'Nitro Rice', also known as Longevity Rice."
The implication was clear: something that could extend life?
"There's also an item called the 'Cure-All Herb'."
As Jin listed them, Kevin was completely captivated. He couldn't help but wonder: if these things could be refined into potions, the effects would be unimaginable.
"And these are just some of the items mentioned in the 'East' volume. According to hints in the book, there should also be a 'West' volume, but it has not been found to this day. There are only three possibilities: first, humans have not yet discovered it; second, the author gave up writing; third, the author is still in the process of writing."
So that's it. If the items recorded in the book truly existed, then indeed, anything was possible.
"Holy crap."
The shock in Kevin's heart at that moment could only be expressed with those two words.
"The author of this book," Jin said, a note of familial pride in his voice, "is named Don Freecss."
"Ah? Your ancestor!" Kevin exclaimed in surprise. Given Jin's strength and status, there was no need for him to lie. Moreover, if it truly was the same lineage, Jin's ancestor, then it was no wonder Jin was so passionate about this subject.
Having reached this point in the conversation, Jin finally revealed his core purpose. "So, the 'outside' is my goal. I long to go there and witness things I have never seen before with my own eyes."
Kevin now understood why Jin had paid him such special attention. In Jin's view, Kevin was likely a special existence from the so-called Dark Continent. If human ancestors could cross Mobius Lake to reach the archipelago at its center and thrive, why couldn't there be similar settlements in other places?
Of course, only Kevin himself knew that was impossible. After all, his original world had already been thoroughly explored, its boundaries mapped, and it had even achieved interstellar travel.
But regardless, after Jin's explanation, Kevin had developed a profound interest in that unknown realm. Anyone would be tempted, especially considering his Nen ability. If it could be combined with materials from the creatures out there, the effects it could unleash would be truly unimaginable.
"Is it very difficult to get there?"
Jin nodded, holding up four fingers. "It requires thorough preparation across four areas: permission, means, qualifications, and a contract. I currently don't have any of them. It might take several years, or even more than a decade, to get everything in order."
Kevin nodded, understanding dawning. To some extent, such a long preparation period seemed justified.
"So, am I part of your preparation plan?" Kevin asked, pointing to himself.
Unexpectedly, Jin shook his head. "No. Initially, I was just curious about you, a curiosity born from my nature. I've now confirmed that you know nothing about the 'outside.' However, if you're also interested, we can certainly become like-minded partners." As he spoke, Jin looked directly at Kevin.
Jin wasn't lying. Initially, he had indeed hoped Kevin was the special existence he'd imagined. Even now, a part of him still wondered. However, Kevin currently wasn't much help with the concrete preparations for the Dark Continent. But after these past six months, witnessing Kevin's growth and speculating about the nature of his Nen ability, Jin felt that if Kevin was willing to come along, he would undoubtedly be a capable assistant in the future. After all, there was still a long time before Jin would be truly ready to embark. Most importantly, Jin placed a high value on being "like-minded." With Kevin's unique origins, he was very likely to yearn for the Dark Continent. Possessing growth potential, a highly adaptable Nen ability, and a compatible mindset—these were precisely the qualities Jin sought in a traveling companion.
"To be honest," Kevin said, his voice firming with resolve, "after hearing all this, I am incredibly interested in that place. Exploring an unknown world… just thinking about it is thrilling. But from what you're saying, going there requires considerable strength… If, by that time, I am confident in my own capabilities, I will definitely join your team."
A broad smile spread across Jin's face. He extended his hand.
The two clasped hands firmly.
"Then I shall look forward to it."