This Wasteland NPC Has a Ridiculous Amount of Grit

The nanotech catastrophe known as the Shell Disaster devoured the world, reducing it to a wasteland where survivors struggle to cling to life amid steel and yellow sand. Yet more terrifying than radiation and mutated behemoths is a group of lunatics who call themselves “players.”

They appear out of nowhere, fear no death, and follow bizarre logic. Shouting about “experience points” and “loot drops,” they treat this hellscape like an amusement park.

Ling Ye, a wasteland “NPC” fighting to survive, initially just wants to stay out of their way. But then he discovers he can guide them just like he’s issuing quests. A few vague words and a pitiful reward are enough to send them charging into battle, getting themselves killed, and attempting the near-impossible tasks he could never complete himself...

A whole new possibility opens up.

“Hello, stranger. I’ve got a legendary hidden quest for you. The reward is Grandma’s Blessing. Interested?”

Watching the “player” in front of him, eyes shining and so excited they’re about to faint, Ling Ye impassively hides the wrench he’s prepared to knock them out with behind his back.

This is the story of a native NPC who relies on his wits and acting skills to turn The Fourth Calamity into a tool and struggle to survive in the apocalypse.