Chapter 5: The Chainsaw and the Blade

In this era of ubiquitous smart appliances and surplus new energy, it had been a long time since Luo Di heard the roar of a fuel-powered engine. The sight of a chainsaw from the previous generation reminded him of his favorite movie. Without realizing it, he had already walked up to the display counter.

"Interested in a chainsaw, young man? You look like you’ve got a sturdy build—want to give it a try?" The shopkeeper, whose physique was a classic case of muscle covered by a layer of fat, didn't want to miss a sale, especially since few people bought chainsaws these days.

"I’m just looking."

The shop was filled mostly with vintage gasoline-powered saws, but there were also a few new electric models equipped with high-performance batteries. They outperformed traditional saws in charging efficiency, portability, and power output.

Luo Di’s fingertips slid across the chain teeth as he inhaled the faint scent of gasoline from the engine housing, as if he had been transported back to the most classic hunting scene from the film.

However, his reason quickly regained the upper hand, drawing his gaze to the price tags.

A vintage gasoline saw cost between 2,600 and 3,000 rubles—roughly two hundred of his country’s currency—while the new electric models were at least three times as expensive.

Just then, a refined face leaned in, staring at the chainsaws alongside him.

"You like these things? That’s not bad. Our practical training is tentatively set in a forest area, so this might come in handy. Maybe we can even use it to cut wood for a fire. Let’s buy this one—this one looks good."

The class monitor pointed at a portable electric saw with a silver-plated finish, priced at a staggering 25,000 rubles.

That was clearly way beyond Luo Di’s budget, and he waved his hand in refusal.

But the class monitor had already carried the silver-plated saw to the counter. "The place we’re going doesn’t have a gasoline supply. If we run out of fuel, those cheap things will be useless. Plus, they’re too bulky to carry around. Don't worry about the money; if we pass this practical exam, the value will far exceed the cost of these supplies. Even if my dad were here, he’d definitely pick out the most expensive and best one for you. This is called a smart investment, understand?"

During his two years in high school, Luo Di had had no interaction with the class monitor outside of class, and this sudden enthusiasm left him feeling somewhat out of his element.

However, he didn't refuse. The silver-plated saw she had chosen was indeed attractive; it was a brand-new model with a retractable design.

With the press of a button on the side, the protruding "saw blade" could be folded away, making it look like a compact silver briefcase. It had a moderate weight and was easier to handle and more powerful than a gas-filled chainsaw.

Although Luo Di wanted to recreate the authentic movie experience, he decided it was better to be safe, given the specific nature of the practical training.

"Thank you."

As Luo Di took the saw, he noticed a famous company logo engraved on the casing: *Lok Electronics* (the word "Lok" wrapped in a curved halo). Specializing in modern smart electrical equipment, the quality was guaranteed.

***

While Luo Di was getting a feel for the new chainsaw through touch, the class monitor had already walked over to a tool shop ten meters away.

"Luo Di, why don't you pick out a knife, too? After all, a chainsaw is a bit extreme—I’ve never seen anyone use one for self-defense. Besides, my tutor taught me that relying too much on electricity isn't always good. Tools driven directly by our own biological energy are the most reliable."

"Alright."

Luo Di didn't mind; she was the one paying, after all.

He eventually chose a machete that suited his style—it was nearly identical to the one in the movie *Friday the 13th*. The moment he gripped the solid wood handle, his arm moved instinctively, swinging toward an empty space.

*Swish!*

The movement was almost identical to the film. The sound of the blade slicing through the air was heavy and sharp.

This scene was noticed by the other members, and Anna, the blonde girl, grew even more interested in him, whispering to herself, "I definitely have to arm-wrestle this guy when I get the chance."

The class monitor raised her arm to signal everyone to gather. "We’ve got most of our gear. Let’s head to the research institute now to confirm the details of this practical training and complete the brief physical examination and sign-off."

"Thanks, Wenwen!" Anna gave the monitor a bear hug that looked like it would crush her, while Gao Yuxuan nodded politely in thanks. Luo Di, having thanked the monitor when buying the chainsaw, didn't say anything further.

The vehicle carrying the four high schoolers drove to the Municipal Research Institute. Any institution at the municipal level or higher was qualified to organize "social practice" for students.

The class monitor had already arranged everything, and the process went smoothly. However, the institute remained tight-lipped about the specific details of the rules, promising to explain them during the drive to the training area tomorrow.

"Everyone, remember to get some sleep tonight. We have to gather at the institute entrance at 06:30 tomorrow morning to depart. Good luck to us for a smooth simulation!"

"Yeah."

After saying their goodbyes, Luo Di chose to take the bus, which he considered the most cost-effective option. But before he could reach the bus stop, a pristine white sports car pulled up beside him.

The window rolled down, and the class monitor lowered her sunglasses while waving him over.

"Hurry up! I’m going to get photographed and docked points if I wait here any longer!"

Luo Di headed for the back seat, but it was already piled high with various items, so he was forced to sit in the passenger seat.

"Class monitor, you can drive?"

"You can get a learner's permit at sixteen, and I passed with a perfect score. You can rest easy. Where do you live? I’ll drop you off."

"Number 13 Settlement District."

The class monitor immediately sat up straight, gripping the steering wheel firmly as she mimicked the voice of an AI.

"Received! Precise navigation activated. A veteran driver with twenty years of experience will be at your service for the entire journey."

As she pressed the accelerator, she glanced at the passenger seat and caught a fleeting, faint smile on Luo Di’s face.

"Tsk, I knew you could smile. You’ve had a straight face all day. Gao Yuxuan is the same—it’s so boring."

"Not really."

"By the way, Luo Di, your body state was qualified during the physical today, but it wasn't exactly healthy. You're missing quite a few trace elements."

The class monitor switched to one-handed driving and skillfully opened the console compartment, pulling out a bottle of vitamins.

"I haven't opened this yet—you take it. Don't be polite with me. As long as we pass this new practical training, I’ll cover all your school expenses from now on."

"Okay."

Luo Di didn't refuse. He had a strong obsession with his physical form, and these supplements were necessary.

"Class monitor, you didn't seem to buy anything today."

"You mean self-defense gear? I’ve already prepared my own. You’ll see soon enough."

"Oh."

Luo Di stopped talking and turned to look at the city streetscape flashing past the window. The class monitor glanced at him again, wanting to say something, but swallowed the words.

The rest of the ride was silent.

The car stopped at the gate of the settlement district. The class monitor leaned out to observe the old-fashioned building complex—built with government funding—with a look of genuine curiosity.

"Which building do you live in?"

Luo Di carried his bags and pointed straight ahead. "The one at the very back."

"Can I come visit sometime? Like during winter or summer break?"

"Better not."

The class monitor keenly noticed a flash of displeasure on Luo Di’s face, and his pupils shifted in a strange way. She quickly changed the subject.

"Alright then! See you tomorrow!"

"Yeah, see you tomorrow."