126 Part 2
Cong Zhenzhong said, "The likelihood of this speculation is relatively high, but I don't think having the ancient jade can prevent self-destruction. As long as we keep evolving, regardless of the method of evolution, the results and extent of gene fission and cell transformation will be the same. Even if you evolve through the ancient jade and change your body less, the human body still has limits. Perhaps the ancient jade helped expand these limits, but it's definitely unable to repair the irreversible gene fission caused by evolution. As long as the changes are irreversible, heading towards death is inevitable; it's just a matter of fast or slow."
Cong Xia added, "I think the appearance of the ancient jade is to help humanity become powerful within a certain time frame. Only when humans become strong can they have the ability to seal the Puppet Jades. Only by sealing the Puppet Jades can the Cambrian energy disappear, and only when Cambrian energy disappears can we truly stop evolution and prevent humanity from heading towards extinction. If the ancient jade could truly stop Cambrian energy, it wouldn't have helped us evolve in its own way, even though it knew the consequences of excessive evolution. The reason it's assisting us in this roundabout manner is that it can't stop it on its own. So, it's helping us in this way because it's the only way to achieve its true purpose."
The group nodded in agreement. At present, this seemed to be the most reasonable explanation. They were all caught in an extreme contradiction. They knew that Cambrian energy was a malevolent force and that the Puppet Jades were leading them step by step into the abyss. Yet, they still needed the Puppet Jades. Without them, they couldn't become powerful enough to confront their super-strong enemies and reclaim the Puppet Jades. They had to rely on the Puppet Jades to evolve themselves, with the ultimate goal of eradicating the Puppet Jades and halting their own evolution. Humanity had to endure the tremendous pressure of slow self-destruction while seeking a way for the continuation of their race.
They could turn into minced flesh at any time due to excessive evolution, but they couldn't cut off the Puppet Jades. Even Cong Zhenzhong, Tang Tingzhi, and many other brain domain evolvers within the scientific institute, as well as those top-tier natural power evolvers, were aware of the consequences of continuing to be exposed to the Puppet Jades' radiation. Yet, they still underwent the Puppet Jades' strengthening every day. They had no other choice. In order to resist the Puppet Jades, they had to become strong.
Everyone was sacrificing themselves to secure the future of their race. They had touched upon the core secret and gained extraordinary abilities. They had no reason to hide away and must shoulder the responsibility and mission of reclaiming the Puppet Jades.
Cong Zhenzhong said, "Xiao Xia, if our speculation is correct, then I believe that as of now, Cheng Tianbi is the only mutant who has broken through to the Second Stage. As for the natural power evolvers in Beijing, they are probably very close to the Second Stage. I hope we can publicize the two cultivation methods within the ancient jade to help more people safely break through the Second Stage. Of course, I and Tang Tingzhi will keep the secret of the ancient jade, but the help it can provide should not be limited to a small group; it should be used to assist more people."
Cong Xia responded, "Uncle, I understand. Since a long time ago, I've hoped that the existence of the ancient jade could help all of humanity, but its existence cannot be made public, as it might cause unpredictable consequences. Zhuang Yao and I have been studying all kinds of information stored in the ancient jade. Anything I believe can be made public and can benefit others besides myself, I will use it to strengthen our fellow humans."
Cong Zhenzhong nodded, "We'll find a suitable reason to disclose this matter. Zhuang Yu definitely won't believe it, so as long as you protect yourselves, it should be fine. As for the other information within the ancient jade, we need your cooperation with Zhuang Yao to extract more. From what you've mentioned, I believe the contents inside can help us create more beneficial things for humanity."
Cong Xia added, "We also need your help to unearth more valuable things."
Cong Zhenzhong glanced at his watch. "It's getting late now. In ten minutes, Chief of Staff Guo Chengming will arrive in Zone Three. Xiao Cheng, after meeting him, you can hand over the puppet jade to us. If the rest of you have nothing urgent, you can go back and rest. I know that you all were attacked by the Erjiangmen of Jiujing Prefecture on Shuichan Street today. We've already sent people to investigate, and currently, Yao Qianjiang denies giving the order. Originally, Commander Cao discussed arranging for you to treat Yao Qianjiang's injuries in three days, but due to this incident, his treatment schedule has been postponed. We suspect that Yao Qianjiang is being framed. If it really was him, he would be acting against his own interests."
"We also believe that Yao Qianjiang wouldn't be so foolish, but since people have already died, it's not easy to investigate," replied another person.
"I will continue to pursue this matter. I heard from Xiao Wang that you are interested in devices that can shield energy fluctuations. I'll have him prepare six sets for your rooms; they are simple devices that you can stick on the back of your necks. There are many things here that you are unfamiliar with, such as new weapons, energy collection devices, and so on. In the next few days, I'll help you understand all of it. If I don't have time, Colonel Tang will also assist you."
"Uncle and the Colonel, we do hope to understand everything here as soon as possible. If you are not busy, we'd like to absorb all the information in the next few days," said Cong Xia.
"I also need some things to conduct multiple experiments. First, you need to prepare a training ground big enough for me. I need to train these five people; there's a big gap between the abilities they display and their actual capabilities," added Zhuang Yao, looking at them. "You can be even more powerful."
"There are two training grounds for the Dragonblood people underground in Zone Six, fully equipped. I'll free one up for you," replied Tang Tingzhi.
Cong Zhenzhong stood up. "Tianbi, you can come with me to see Guo Chengming now. Oh, Xiao Xia, you should come too. You two are bound together now."
Zhuang Yao said to Tang Tingzhi, "Now take me to the experimental area."
Tang Tingzhi looked at him and suddenly said, "Do you need me to carry you?"
"What?"
"Your brainwave activity is only at 50% just now, you're tired."
Zhuang Yao blushed with embarrassment. "I don't need you to carry me!"
Tang Tingzhi fell silent for a moment and mumbled, "Strange, Al said that when he's tired, I just need to hold him."
Zhuang Yao gave him a cold look and strode out of the meeting room.
Tang Tingzhi quickly followed, "My salary..."
"I'll give it to you right away!"
Cong Xia watched Zhuang Yao and Tang Tingzhi's figures and shook his head with a smile. He turned to Liu Fengyu and the others, "Are you all going back to rest?"
Liu Fengyu said, "I'm going to the logistics department to ask if there's any progress with my parents' matters."
Deng Xiao added, "Liu-ge, I'll go with you. They weren't planning to issue a wanted notice for us, so I want to try to see if I can find my mother."
"Sure, come with me then."
Tang Yanqiu said, "Then I'll go and check on Abu. It might be in a bad mood."
Cong Xia nodded, "It's okay, spend more time with it." He turned to Cong Zhenzhong, "Uncle, let's go."
Cong Zhenzhong led him and Cheng Tianbi to the experimental area. Ten minutes later, he brought them to a guest room, and he and Cheng Tianbi went in, while Cong Xia waited outside.
Cong Xia could probably guess what they would talk about with Guo Chengming, so he didn't eavesdrop. Guo Chengming was the former Chief of Staff of the 35th Group Army of the original Beijing Military Region. Due to severe losses, the 35th Group Army was merged into the 14th and 27th Group Armies. The secretive special forces unit "Special Warfare Ninth Division," where Cheng Tianbi belonged, was under this group army, so it was only natural for Cheng Tianbi to report to him.
They talked for a full half hour, and Cong Xia almost fell asleep sitting on the floor. Too much had happened today. After experiencing a failed kidnapping attempt, he returned to be bombarded with a huge amount of information, leaving him feeling dizzy. Even Zhuang Yao was tired due to excessive brain usage. With so many similar questions running through his mind, it would be strange if he didn't feel tired.
When the three of them came out of the room, Cong Xia shook himself awake as they approached. Cong Zhenzhong said to him, "I'm taking Xiao Cheng to the experimental area now to retrieve the puppet jade from him. I know you're tired, but hold on a little longer."
Cong Xia smiled, "I'm fine." He looked at Cheng Tianbi and could observe his facial expressions despite his usual lack of emotions. It was evident that Cheng Tianbi felt relieved now.
Cong Xia patted Cheng Tianbi's shoulder and smiled gently, "Tianbi, congratulations on completing the mission."
Cheng Tianbi glanced at him and whispered, "This is... my final mission for Special Warfare Ninth Division."
Upon hearing this, Guo Chengming's shoulders trembled slightly, and he lowered his head.
Cong Xia also felt distressed. Although he had just learned about this secretive special forces unit, he could imagine the young and passionate soldiers fighting bloodshed for the interests of their country and people, ultimately sacrificing themselves in a tragic manner. As the only survivor, Cheng Tianbi had gone through countless hardships to fulfill his mission and preserve the honor of the soldiers. But now, he had to face the fact that his former comrades and organization no longer existed. Cheng Tianbi, who wasn't good at expressing himself, didn't frown, but Cong Xia could feel the pain in his heart.
Cong Zhenzhong took them into the experimental area, where many people were waiting to receive the puppet jade. Cheng Tianbi took out the puppet jade that had once been stored in his flesh, along with the metallic wrapping, and handed them over to Cong Zhenzhong. As Cong Zhenzhong took it, he weighed it in his hand. It was just a small piece of shattered jade, but it held a suffocating weight in everyone's hearts.
Guo Chengming sighed and patted Cheng Tianbi's shoulder heavily. This tough soldier spoke with a slightly choked voice, "Tianbi, you have completed the final mission for Special Warfare Ninth Division. You've done a great job. Every warrior in the Ninth Division is commendable."
Cheng Tianbi clenched his fist, and his shoulder trembled slightly.
Guo Chengming turned his face away, "Professor Cong, if there's nothing else, I'll leave first. Tianbi, if you need anything, come find me anytime."
Cheng Tianbi saluted him silently. Guo Chengming saluted back and then walked away.
Cong Zhenzhong said, "We'll handle the rest of the matters. You two go and rest."
They nodded and followed a logistics personnel back to their residence.
As soon as they entered the room, Cheng Tianbi handed the puppet jade back to Cong Xia, "We don't need to be bound together anymore."
Cong Xia tucked the puppet jade into his embrace and smiled softly, "Who said that? We have always been bound together."
Cheng Tianbi hugged him tightly, resting his forehead against Cong Xia's shoulder, as if something was pressing on him, preventing him from lifting his head freely.
Cong Xia gently caressed his back, "Tianbi, if you miss your comrades, just talk to me about it."
Cheng Tianbi remained silent for a long time, "There were... sixteen of us in total. The oldest was 35, and the youngest was only 18. Xia, I believe they are still alive. They went to Qinghai and then disappeared without a trace. But that doesn't mean they're dead. Every member of Special Warfare Ninth Division is the strongest soldier. Besides, they were all together. I don't believe they're dead. I'm going to Qinghai, and I will find them."
Cong Xia caressed his hair and replied, "I believe they are still alive, too. They are all as capable as you, how could they easily die? No matter where you go, I'll go with you. I'll go to Qinghai with you to find your comrades."
Cheng Tianbi hugged him even tighter, pressing his thin lips against Cong Xia's warm ones. Cong Xia wrapped his arms around Cheng Tianbi's neck, responding passionately.
The two of them fell onto the bed, tearing each other's clothes in haste, passionately kissing and caressing each other, their bodies entangled, tirelessly absorbing each other's warmth as if trying to blend themselves into each other's very essence.
126 Part 2
Cong Zhenzhong said, "The likelihood of this speculation is relatively high, but I don't think having the ancient jade can prevent self-destruction. As long as we keep evolving, regardless of the method of evolution, the results and extent of gene fission and cell transformation will be the same. Even if you evolve through the ancient jade and change your body less, the human body still has limits. Perhaps the ancient jade helped expand these limits, but it's definitely unable to repair the irreversible gene fission caused by evolution. As long as the changes are irreversible, heading towards death is inevitable; it's just a matter of fast or slow."
Cong Xia added, "I think the appearance of the ancient jade is to help humanity become powerful within a certain time frame. Only when humans become strong can they have the ability to seal the Puppet Jades. Only by sealing the Puppet Jades can the Cambrian energy disappear, and only when Cambrian energy disappears can we truly stop evolution and prevent humanity from heading towards extinction. If the ancient jade could truly stop Cambrian energy, it wouldn't have helped us evolve in its own way, even though it knew the consequences of excessive evolution. The reason it's assisting us in this roundabout manner is that it can't stop it on its own. So, it's helping us in this way because it's the only way to achieve its true purpose."
The group nodded in agreement. At present, this seemed to be the most reasonable explanation. They were all caught in an extreme contradiction. They knew that Cambrian energy was a malevolent force and that the Puppet Jades were leading them step by step into the abyss. Yet, they still needed the Puppet Jades. Without them, they couldn't become powerful enough to confront their super-strong enemies and reclaim the Puppet Jades. They had to rely on the Puppet Jades to evolve themselves, with the ultimate goal of eradicating the Puppet Jades and halting their own evolution. Humanity had to endure the tremendous pressure of slow self-destruction while seeking a way for the continuation of their race.
They could turn into minced flesh at any time due to excessive evolution, but they couldn't cut off the Puppet Jades. Even Cong Zhenzhong, Tang Tingzhi, and many other brain domain evolvers within the scientific institute, as well as those top-tier natural power evolvers, were aware of the consequences of continuing to be exposed to the Puppet Jades' radiation. Yet, they still underwent the Puppet Jades' strengthening every day. They had no other choice. In order to resist the Puppet Jades, they had to become strong.
Everyone was sacrificing themselves to secure the future of their race. They had touched upon the core secret and gained extraordinary abilities. They had no reason to hide away and must shoulder the responsibility and mission of reclaiming the Puppet Jades.
Cong Zhenzhong said, "Xiao Xia, if our speculation is correct, then I believe that as of now, Cheng Tianbi is the only mutant who has broken through to the Second Stage. As for the natural power evolvers in Beijing, they are probably very close to the Second Stage. I hope we can publicize the two cultivation methods within the ancient jade to help more people safely break through the Second Stage. Of course, I and Tang Tingzhi will keep the secret of the ancient jade, but the help it can provide should not be limited to a small group; it should be used to assist more people."
Cong Xia responded, "Uncle, I understand. Since a long time ago, I've hoped that the existence of the ancient jade could help all of humanity, but its existence cannot be made public, as it might cause unpredictable consequences. Zhuang Yao and I have been studying all kinds of information stored in the ancient jade. Anything I believe can be made public and can benefit others besides myself, I will use it to strengthen our fellow humans."
Cong Zhenzhong nodded, "We'll find a suitable reason to disclose this matter. Zhuang Yu definitely won't believe it, so as long as you protect yourselves, it should be fine. As for the other information within the ancient jade, we need your cooperation with Zhuang Yao to extract more. From what you've mentioned, I believe the contents inside can help us create more beneficial things for humanity."
Cong Xia added, "We also need your help to unearth more valuable things."
Cong Zhenzhong glanced at his watch. "It's getting late now. In ten minutes, Chief of Staff Guo Chengming will arrive in Zone Three. Xiao Cheng, after meeting him, you can hand over the puppet jade to us. If the rest of you have nothing urgent, you can go back and rest. I know that you all were attacked by the Erjiangmen of Jiujing Prefecture on Shuichan Street today. We've already sent people to investigate, and currently, Yao Qianjiang denies giving the order. Originally, Commander Cao discussed arranging for you to treat Yao Qianjiang's injuries in three days, but due to this incident, his treatment schedule has been postponed. We suspect that Yao Qianjiang is being framed. If it really was him, he would be acting against his own interests."
"We also believe that Yao Qianjiang wouldn't be so foolish, but since people have already died, it's not easy to investigate," replied another person.
"I will continue to pursue this matter. I heard from Xiao Wang that you are interested in devices that can shield energy fluctuations. I'll have him prepare six sets for your rooms; they are simple devices that you can stick on the back of your necks. There are many things here that you are unfamiliar with, such as new weapons, energy collection devices, and so on. In the next few days, I'll help you understand all of it. If I don't have time, Colonel Tang will also assist you."
"Uncle and the Colonel, we do hope to understand everything here as soon as possible. If you are not busy, we'd like to absorb all the information in the next few days," said Cong Xia.
"I also need some things to conduct multiple experiments. First, you need to prepare a training ground big enough for me. I need to train these five people; there's a big gap between the abilities they display and their actual capabilities," added Zhuang Yao, looking at them. "You can be even more powerful."
"There are two training grounds for the Dragonblood people underground in Zone Six, fully equipped. I'll free one up for you," replied Tang Tingzhi.
Cong Zhenzhong stood up. "Tianbi, you can come with me to see Guo Chengming now. Oh, Xiao Xia, you should come too. You two are bound together now."
Zhuang Yao said to Tang Tingzhi, "Now take me to the experimental area."
Tang Tingzhi looked at him and suddenly said, "Do you need me to carry you?"
"What?"
"Your brainwave activity is only at 50% just now, you're tired."
Zhuang Yao blushed with embarrassment. "I don't need you to carry me!"
Tang Tingzhi fell silent for a moment and mumbled, "Strange, Al said that when he's tired, I just need to hold him."
Zhuang Yao gave him a cold look and strode out of the meeting room.
Tang Tingzhi quickly followed, "My salary..."
"I'll give it to you right away!"
Cong Xia watched Zhuang Yao and Tang Tingzhi's figures and shook his head with a smile. He turned to Liu Fengyu and the others, "Are you all going back to rest?"
Liu Fengyu said, "I'm going to the logistics department to ask if there's any progress with my parents' matters."
Deng Xiao added, "Liu-ge, I'll go with you. They weren't planning to issue a wanted notice for us, so I want to try to see if I can find my mother."
"Sure, come with me then."
Tang Yanqiu said, "Then I'll go and check on Abu. It might be in a bad mood."
Cong Xia nodded, "It's okay, spend more time with it." He turned to Cong Zhenzhong, "Uncle, let's go."
Cong Zhenzhong led him and Cheng Tianbi to the experimental area. Ten minutes later, he brought them to a guest room, and he and Cheng Tianbi went in, while Cong Xia waited outside.
Cong Xia could probably guess what they would talk about with Guo Chengming, so he didn't eavesdrop. Guo Chengming was the former Chief of Staff of the 35th Group Army of the original Beijing Military Region. Due to severe losses, the 35th Group Army was merged into the 14th and 27th Group Armies. The secretive special forces unit "Special Warfare Ninth Division," where Cheng Tianbi belonged, was under this group army, so it was only natural for Cheng Tianbi to report to him.
They talked for a full half hour, and Cong Xia almost fell asleep sitting on the floor. Too much had happened today. After experiencing a failed kidnapping attempt, he returned to be bombarded with a huge amount of information, leaving him feeling dizzy. Even Zhuang Yao was tired due to excessive brain usage. With so many similar questions running through his mind, it would be strange if he didn't feel tired.
When the three of them came out of the room, Cong Xia shook himself awake as they approached. Cong Zhenzhong said to him, "I'm taking Xiao Cheng to the experimental area now to retrieve the puppet jade from him. I know you're tired, but hold on a little longer."
Cong Xia smiled, "I'm fine." He looked at Cheng Tianbi and could observe his facial expressions despite his usual lack of emotions. It was evident that Cheng Tianbi felt relieved now.
Cong Xia patted Cheng Tianbi's shoulder and smiled gently, "Tianbi, congratulations on completing the mission."
Cheng Tianbi glanced at him and whispered, "This is... my final mission for Special Warfare Ninth Division."
Upon hearing this, Guo Chengming's shoulders trembled slightly, and he lowered his head.
Cong Xia also felt distressed. Although he had just learned about this secretive special forces unit, he could imagine the young and passionate soldiers fighting bloodshed for the interests of their country and people, ultimately sacrificing themselves in a tragic manner. As the only survivor, Cheng Tianbi had gone through countless hardships to fulfill his mission and preserve the honor of the soldiers. But now, he had to face the fact that his former comrades and organization no longer existed. Cheng Tianbi, who wasn't good at expressing himself, didn't frown, but Cong Xia could feel the pain in his heart.
Cong Zhenzhong took them into the experimental area, where many people were waiting to receive the puppet jade. Cheng Tianbi took out the puppet jade that had once been stored in his flesh, along with the metallic wrapping, and handed them over to Cong Zhenzhong. As Cong Zhenzhong took it, he weighed it in his hand. It was just a small piece of shattered jade, but it held a suffocating weight in everyone's hearts.
Guo Chengming sighed and patted Cheng Tianbi's shoulder heavily. This tough soldier spoke with a slightly choked voice, "Tianbi, you have completed the final mission for Special Warfare Ninth Division. You've done a great job. Every warrior in the Ninth Division is commendable."
Cheng Tianbi clenched his fist, and his shoulder trembled slightly.
Guo Chengming turned his face away, "Professor Cong, if there's nothing else, I'll leave first. Tianbi, if you need anything, come find me anytime."
Cheng Tianbi saluted him silently. Guo Chengming saluted back and then walked away.
Cong Zhenzhong said, "We'll handle the rest of the matters. You two go and rest."
They nodded and followed a logistics personnel back to their residence.
As soon as they entered the room, Cheng Tianbi handed the puppet jade back to Cong Xia, "We don't need to be bound together anymore."
Cong Xia tucked the puppet jade into his embrace and smiled softly, "Who said that? We have always been bound together."
Cheng Tianbi hugged him tightly, resting his forehead against Cong Xia's shoulder, as if something was pressing on him, preventing him from lifting his head freely.
Cong Xia gently caressed his back, "Tianbi, if you miss your comrades, just talk to me about it."
Cheng Tianbi remained silent for a long time, "There were... sixteen of us in total. The oldest was 35, and the youngest was only 18. Xia, I believe they are still alive. They went to Qinghai and then disappeared without a trace. But that doesn't mean they're dead. Every member of Special Warfare Ninth Division is the strongest soldier. Besides, they were all together. I don't believe they're dead. I'm going to Qinghai, and I will find them."
Cong Xia caressed his hair and replied, "I believe they are still alive, too. They are all as capable as you, how could they easily die? No matter where you go, I'll go with you. I'll go to Qinghai with you to find your comrades."
Cheng Tianbi hugged him even tighter, pressing his thin lips against Cong Xia's warm ones. Cong Xia wrapped his arms around Cheng Tianbi's neck, responding passionately.
The two of them fell onto the bed, tearing each other's clothes in haste, passionately kissing and caressing each other, their bodies entangled, tirelessly absorbing each other's warmth as if trying to blend themselves into each other's very essence.
