170 Enchanted Forest
Several hours later, Cheng Tianbi returned, and Cong Zhenzhong had just woken up. They had dinner and discussed the situation with Cao Zhixian.
After sleeping for a few hours, Cong Zhenzhong's complexion improved. He asked, "Is Commander Cao also troubled now? He has ordered people to spread the disinfectant throughout the city, just like Xu Ying, also dispatching people to do the same."
Cheng Tianbi nodded, "He said that Xu Ying sent his chief guard this morning to discuss some demands ambitiously. Xu Ying's main goal is to divide Beijing, with the Scientific Academy as the center, dividing it into the east and west."
Cong Zhenzhong pounded the table, "What? Divide it? Does he really think Beijing belongs to him?"
Cheng Tianbi said coldly, "Xu Ying indeed thinks Beijing is his. He wants separate governance and resource allocation, with no interference in each other's affairs, to see who can truly lead Beijing. The most troublesome thing is that, although Commander Cao is still somewhat clear-headed and knows it's not right, I can tell that he's already wavering, though he hasn't said it aloud."
"We absolutely can't allow this! Resources are already scarce, and dividing them in half will seriously hinder our development. Beijing is not a prize for power struggles between military groups; it is the last hope of this country and even carries the hope of all humanity. While the situation has been troublesome before, both the two military groups and District 2 and 3 cooperated for the greater good. Once divided, such cooperation will cease to exist, and with limited resources, the situation between the east and west will only become more rigid, leading to inevitable hostility. I always thought that although Xu Ying is greedy for power, he still had a sense of the bigger picture, putting the reconstruction of humanity first. I never expected him to be so confused. According to what I know about him, he was not like this before. He must have been brainwashed by Zhuang Yu."
Tang Tingzhi said, "Indeed, Commander Xu was not like this before. He was even more aloof and self-disciplined, not allowing any blemishes on his career path. Even if he disagreed with higher-ups, he would never resort to violating the rules to achieve his goals. In the past, Commander Cao was much smoother than him. However, Commander Xu is extremely stubborn; once he has decided on something, no one can persuade him otherwise. You are right; he has been brainwashed by Zhuang Yu. Now he only sticks to his own ideas, which are actually the ones continuously instilled by Zhuang Yu. If it weren't for Zhuang Yu, things would not have evolved to this point."
Cong Xia gritted his teeth, "What does Zhuang Yu want to do?"
Zhuang Yao said, "I think he wants to create his ideal world. It's every scientist's dream, but his is the most extreme."
"What does his ideal world look like?"
"I was very young when he told me, but my memory system was not complete at the time, and I don't remember it well. I only recall that he was persistent about species optimization. He believes that this world should be left to the excellent species to enjoy. By using ever-advancing technology, these people can live a completely automated life. Then they will have the time to create more valuable things for the world. He believes that those who can drive the world's progress should be rewarded with the fruits of human progress, while the lower class should only serve these people. I am not his only clone; he tried many times before me, but they all failed. Some clones survived, but because their intelligence wasn't high enough, he abandoned them. That's the kind of madman he is."
Cheng Tianbi said, "It seems that the arrival of the apocalypse is in line with his intentions, as it suddenly classifies humans into superior and inferior based on whether they are mutants or not."
Zhuang Yao's eyes showed a hint of coldness, "So, he feels right at home in this era."
"We absolutely cannot let Zhuang Yu and Xu Ying succeed. I will send someone to inquire about Commander Cao's attitude again. Now, let's go to District 2 and see what Zhuang Yu is up to."
The group headed towards District 2.
This was destined not to be a friendly meeting. Many of them harbored the thought of cutting off Zhuang Yu's head as soon as they saw him, even though they knew they couldn't do that.
Zhuang Yu was clearly aware that they were coming and had been waiting in the meeting room, sipping tea. When he saw them, he greeted them with a beaming smile. After the incident of kidnapping Xu Hang last time, he lost quite a bit of face. This time, he felt like he had won back some ground, and naturally, he was pleased.
Zhou Fenglan sat next to him, crossing his legs arrogantly as he looked at them.
Zhuang Yu smiled at Zhuang Yao, "Little Zhuang Yao, you seem to have grown a bit taller. Seeing you is like seeing myself in my childhood. It truly makes me feel gratified."
Zhuang Yao coldly responded, "Let's not waste words."
Cong Zhenzhong said solemnly, "Zhuang Yu, the highest purpose of a scientist is to serve humanity with science, not to use science to harm compatriots and fulfill selfish desires. If you are still clear-headed, then stop."
Zhuang Yu chuckled, "Strange, with my high intelligence, I can't quite understand what you're saying. You must not have explained it clearly."
Deng Xiao angrily retorted, "Stop pretending! Those roaches all over the city were released by you, right?"
Zhuang Yu raised an eyebrow, "Do you have any evidence? Don't think you can accuse someone without paying a price. I've lost sleep for several days trying to stop those roaches."
Compared to the truly sleep-deprived Cong Zhenzhong, Zhuang Yu appeared spirited and showed no signs of fatigue.
Cong Zhenzhong said in a low voice, "You have a way to control those roaches, then come up with it quickly. The next generation of those mutated roaches will be born in three days, and they will launch large-scale attacks on humans. There are hardly any people left in Beijing. How long do you plan to keep causing trouble?"
Zhuang Yu said, "I told you, I'm working hard on it. Maybe I'll figure it out in a few days, maybe it will take some more time. Without the genome sequencer, many tasks are difficult to proceed with. Besides, both me and Fenglan are on the brink of breaking through to the Second Stage. This matter is a serious distraction, and it's really annoying how all the important and urgent things coincide."
Cong Zhenzhong said coldly, "What do you want? Speak up."
Zhuang Yu squinted at Cong Zhenzhong and then burst out laughing, "Professor Cong, you are always so rigid yet adorable. We've been competing for over ten years, and the victories and defeats are almost evenly split. But, it seems you are asking me for something for the first time."
"I am not asking you; I demand that you come up with a solution to the roach crisis."
"I already said I need a genome sequencer, and two weeks ago, I gave you a list of materials required for experiments. You should have prepared them by now. Additionally, Fenglan and I need to break through to the Second Stage, and we need the support of your Cong Xia. This way, I can focus on my research. What do you say?"
"The genome sequencer does not belong exclusively to District 3. You should apply to the Dean. We have never prevented any researcher from using it as long as it's for legitimate purposes."
"Ah, the Dean? Are you talking about the one who is going to retire and is already preparing for retirement? What's the use of applying to him? The sequencer is located in District 3, and every time I apply for 'legitimate purposes,' it gets rejected, severely hindering my work. Now, I request that the sequencer be moved to lab c34 between District 2 and 3, and each District Leader will decide whether the researchers have the right to use it, with scheduled appointments. Otherwise, it will appear that you, Professor Cong, are being too arbitrary, and that's not good, is it?"
"The Dean prevented you from using it because you created too many genetically modified humans with extremely low success rates. You are not using guinea pigs; you are using people."
"It's precisely because I have so few chances to use the sequencer that I can't improve the success rate. Speaking of which, who should be blamed for this? I create genetically modified humans to optimize their genes, so that more ordinary people can become mutants. Otherwise, what's the difference between those ordinary people and the dead? They are always at risk of dying at any moment. Furthermore, I haven't forced anyone to participate in the experiments; all the participants volunteered."
"Exchanging food and medicine for their 'volunteerism'?"
Zhuang Yu chuckled, "Well, they lack the ability to acquire them on their own. This is the tragedy of being ordinary people. They voluntarily choose to take part in this gamble. Those who succeed in becoming mutants win. Not only do they live well themselves, but their families also have enough to eat. Isn't that a win-win situation for everyone?"
Cong Zhenzhong clenched his teeth, "What about the 90% of those who fail?"
Zhuang Yu shrugged, "Blame their bad luck."
"You..."
Zhuang Yao held Cong Zhenzhong's shoulder, "Professor Cong, it seems you haven't rested enough. Let me handle this."
Cong Zhenzhong's eyes were bloodshot, with dark circles under them, and his hair was disheveled. He looked much more agitated than usual due to fatigue, which made Cong Xia feel both distressed and angry.
While he tirelessly researched new energy, new weapons, mutant seeds, and mutant poultry to change the living conditions of ordinary people and enable them to have enough food and clothing, there were people who didn't care about the lives of those ordinary people. They used methods that completely contradicted his own to carry out so-called reconstruction work. Cong Xia completely understood the anger and helplessness in Cong Zhenzhong's heart.
Sometimes, Cong Xia felt they were already very powerful, especially in terms of combat capabilities. They were almost invincible, never having experienced true defeat. However, the existence of Zhuang Yu and Xu Ying repeatedly reminded them that having military power alone was not enough to restore the world to normal. At least, until their military strength became strong enough to dominate everything, they still had to compromise and bow their heads in the face of many abhorrent facts.
Like now. If they could disregard the lives of ordinary people and continue to battle with Zhuang Yu, it might not be them who couldn't bear it first. After all, the method for safely breaking through to the Second Stage was in their hands. But they couldn't do it, so in this round of competition with Zhuang Yu, they lost.
Zhuang Yao said, "The genome sequencer can be placed in lab c34, but it cannot be used on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure fairness, the time should be evenly divided among the six districts. Each district can use it for a maximum of four days per month, and the rest of the time will be used for maintenance and rest."
Zhuang Yu smiled, "Agreed."
Districts 1 and 2 are mostly under Zhuang Yu's control, Districts 3 and 6 belong to Cong Zhenzhong and Tang Tingzhi, and Districts 4 and 5 are on the side of the Dean. The domain-evolved individuals in Districts 4 and 5 have little real power. In general, the genome sequencer is mostly used by Zhuang Yu, Cong Zhenzhong, and Tang Tingzhi.
"The experimental materials you requested on the list, we can only get 80% of them; there is no more available. As for you and Zhou Fenglan breaking through to the Second Stage, Cong Xia can help you, but it should be after you have resolved the roach crisis."
Zhuang Yu shook his head with a smile, "No, I need it right away."
Tang Tingzhi said expressionlessly, "There are only sixty hours left until the roaches reproduce again. No matter what method you use to eliminate them, it will take time. You should exterminate the roaches immediately."
Zhuang Yu nonchalantly replied, "Alright, let's compromise. You help Fenglan break through to the Second Stage first. Once he succeeds and is safe, I will take action."
Zhuang Yao and Cong Zhenzhong exchanged a glance, and Cong Zhenzhong said, "Let's settle for this plan. Two hours later, you come to District 3."
Zhuang Yu smiled, "No hurry. Although I would love to help you, it seems that there are still some agreements between Commander Xu and Commander Cao regarding the allocation of resources in District 2. My approval is not enough; I need Commander Xu's consent as well. So, I have to wait for Commander Xu's orders."
Zhuang Yao sneered, "Zhuang Yu, to be honest, I'm a bit like you in one aspect. I don't care whether those unrelated people outside live or die, so I'm even more patient than you. After all, it won't be me who explodes and dies while breaking through to the Second Stage. We can help all the mutants in Beijing break through to the Second Stage, except for you guys. If this matter drags on for more than three days and the roach's mutated offspring are born, many people will die. At that time, we won't help you. We will watch you and Zhou Fenglan explode into pieces. To avoid this result, Commander Xu's side also needs you to work with them. Let's all be rational, take what we need, and stop when it's enough. If things really get out of control, you won't get anything you want. Is that the result you want?"
Zhuang Yu smiled faintly, "Well said, take what we need, and stop when it's enough."
Within less than twenty minutes, everyone hurriedly left.
Cheng Tianbi and Cong Zhenzhong decided to meet Cao Zhixian again to discuss the next course of action. Zhuang Yao and Tang Tingzhi rushed to the laboratory, holding onto a glimmer of hope that they could research a method to exterminate the roaches quickly, even though they knew that the time was too short, and this task was virtually impossible to accomplish.
Time ticked away, and everyone felt the difficulty of breathing under the pressure.
After 2 AM, Cheng Tianbi and Cong Zhenzhong returned. Both of their faces didn't look good, and they brought back the result of their discussion.
Cong Zhenzhong said, "The Tian Tai Mountain weapon depot cannot be opened to Xu Ying. Beijing City cannot be divided. The temporary plan is to agree to Xu Ying for now, but we will take action after the roach crisis is resolved. Commander Cao plans to send a batch of weapons over to Xu Ying."
Zhuang Yao furrowed his brows, "Xu Ying is not so easy to deal with."
Cong Zhenzhong said, "I'll be responsible for transporting the weapons."
Cong Xia suddenly looked up, "Uncle, are you planning to be taken hostage? No way! Absolutely not!"
"Xu Ying won't do anything to me. First, resolve the roach issue, and then come to rescue me."
"With the experience of kidnapping Xu Hang last time, how could he let us easily find you and take you away? Xu Ying will probably hide you somewhere. Uncle, this is not a good plan. Let's think of something else."
"No matter how many plans we come up with, we don't have enough time. There are still over fifty hours left until the roaches reproduce again, and we need to consider the time to help Zhou Fenglan break through to the Second Stage. In the end, we only have one day. What can we do in one day? Anyway, Xu Ying won't kill me. Let's figure out a solution when the time comes. This is the decision."
"Then I'll go!" Cong Xia suddenly stood up, "I'll go in your place, Xu Ying won't dare to kill me."
Cheng Tianbi looked at Cong Xia, his gaze unfathomable, but he didn't say anything.
"Xiaoxia, I'm better equipped to handle this situation than you. It's not a time to show off."
"Why are you better equipped? Is it because you are a domain-evolved individual? Well, I'm more capable of surviving than you!" Cong Xia's voice trembled slightly, becoming assertive, "If we have to go, then let me go."
Zhuang Yao coldly said, "No, Zhuang Yu wants to slice you and study you. He will discover the secrets you carry. I'll be blunt; it's more severe than Professor Cong's death."
Cong Zhenzhong calmly said, "It's decided. I'll go and inform Zhou Fenglan." After saying that, he walked away without looking back.
Cong Xia sat back in the chair, unable to accept the situation.
No one else spoke either because they didn't know how to console someone facing such peril. Who could calmly watch their last family member taking such a risk?
Cheng Tianbi walked up to Cong Xia, crouched down, and held his hand, looking into his eyes seriously, "Cong Xia, do you trust me?"
Cong Xia stared at Cheng Tianbi, "Of course, I trust you..." His eyes welled up with tears, and he gritted his teeth, "But why did you give me such a solution?"
It was the first time Cong Xia spoke to Cheng Tianbi with a somewhat reproachful tone.
"It's a temporary plan," Cheng Tianbi said, and suddenly his body swayed, his limbs and head disappeared into thin air, turning into an afterimage in the air. Then he transformed into a gentle breeze, dispersing into the surroundings, with more than half of his body turning into an invisible and colorless wind.
Everyone watched in amazement.
In an instant, Cheng Tianbi's form reassembled into a human shape. "50% of my body has now elementalized. No matter where Professor Cong goes, I will find him and bring him back. Trust me."
Looking into Cheng Tianbi's deep eyes, the turbulence in Cong Xia's heart gradually calmed down. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Alright, alright."
Cheng Tianbi patted him on the arm, "Rest now. I'll oversee Zhou Fenglan. When it's critical, I'll wake you."
Since returning to Beijing, they had been tirelessly dealing with the mutated cockroach issue, having no rest until now. With Zhou Fenglan's breakthrough to the second level expected to take over twenty hours, Cong Xia doubted he could endure without rest. Thus, he decided to heed Cheng Tianbi's advice and retire.
Zhuang Yao said, "The rest of you should also rest. Only Cheng Tianbi and I will stay."
Everyone else headed to their rooms.
After a bath, Cong Xia lay down but found himself restless. The joy of safely returning from the northeast had faded. They should have known that peace would rarely last in their lives. Upon reflection, although Mu Fei couldn't leave the forest, their life there had been peaceful, wasn't that the idyllic life he and Cheng Tianbi yearned for?
Truly enviable.
A whirlwind of thoughts flooded Cong Xia's mind until exhaustion finally took over, and he fell asleep.
After a few hours, he awoke, seeing daylight outside. Quickly, he freshened up and headed to the research area. From a distance, he saw a crowd gathered outside a lab. Zhuang Yu sat in a chair, a smile playing on his lips as he watched Zhou Fenglan and Cheng Tianbi inside.
Approaching the glass, Cong Xia saw Cheng Tianbi sitting motionlessly in a corner, his face expressionless. Despite the apparent exhaustion, his eyes shone with the determination of a soldier. Cong Xia's gaze lingered, and for a moment he was transported back to the day they first met. Cong Xia, usually amiable, had been startled by this good-looking yet hot-tempered man who had even drawn a gun on him. Who would have thought that the man he once feared would become the most trusted, important, and beloved person in his life?
If everything could end, he wished they could live carefreely like the Devil Pine and Mu Fei.
Time flew, and Zhou Fenglan's crucial moment arrived. Stepping into the lab, Cong Xia, drawing from his past experiences, was confident. Despite the overwhelming golden energy emanating from Zhou Fenglan, Cong Xia felt that the destructive Cambrian energy within Zhou was not more than that in Shen Changze and Li Dao'ai.
As Zhou Fenglan convulsed in pain, Cong Xia stood by his side, channeling his energy without touching him due to the electrical discharges around Zhou. Watching Zhou Fenglang's near-death state, a wicked thought crossed Cong Xia's mind - it might be better to let him die.
But he couldn't.
Cong Xia used his energy to aid Zhou Fenglan in resisting the destructive force, compressing the vast golden energy into Zhou's core. When victory seemed imminent, Cong Xia intentionally slowed down, wanting Zhou Fenglan to suffer a bit longer.
Cheng Tianbi watched with a slight smile. When their eyes met, they exchanged playful glances.
Finally, the immense golden energy receded into Zhou Fenglan, causing him to faint.
The lab doors opened, and Zhou Fenglan was carried out by the guards.
Exhausted and drenched in sweat, Cong Xia sat down next to Cheng Tianbi, playfully patting his thigh. "Ge, that was tough."
Cheng Tianbi closed his eyes, "You worked hard too."
"Tianbi, I've always trusted you the most. You don't even need to ask."
Cheng Tianbi grasped his hand, "I understand."
Cong Xia leaned against Cheng Tianbi with a smile. He didn't need to envy anyone; he was already fortunate and happy.
170 Enchanted Forest
Several hours later, Cheng Tianbi returned, and Cong Zhenzhong had just woken up. They had dinner and discussed the situation with Cao Zhixian.
After sleeping for a few hours, Cong Zhenzhong's complexion improved. He asked, "Is Commander Cao also troubled now? He has ordered people to spread the disinfectant throughout the city, just like Xu Ying, also dispatching people to do the same."
Cheng Tianbi nodded, "He said that Xu Ying sent his chief guard this morning to discuss some demands ambitiously. Xu Ying's main goal is to divide Beijing, with the Scientific Academy as the center, dividing it into the east and west."
Cong Zhenzhong pounded the table, "What? Divide it? Does he really think Beijing belongs to him?"
Cheng Tianbi said coldly, "Xu Ying indeed thinks Beijing is his. He wants separate governance and resource allocation, with no interference in each other's affairs, to see who can truly lead Beijing. The most troublesome thing is that, although Commander Cao is still somewhat clear-headed and knows it's not right, I can tell that he's already wavering, though he hasn't said it aloud."
"We absolutely can't allow this! Resources are already scarce, and dividing them in half will seriously hinder our development. Beijing is not a prize for power struggles between military groups; it is the last hope of this country and even carries the hope of all humanity. While the situation has been troublesome before, both the two military groups and District 2 and 3 cooperated for the greater good. Once divided, such cooperation will cease to exist, and with limited resources, the situation between the east and west will only become more rigid, leading to inevitable hostility. I always thought that although Xu Ying is greedy for power, he still had a sense of the bigger picture, putting the reconstruction of humanity first. I never expected him to be so confused. According to what I know about him, he was not like this before. He must have been brainwashed by Zhuang Yu."
Tang Tingzhi said, "Indeed, Commander Xu was not like this before. He was even more aloof and self-disciplined, not allowing any blemishes on his career path. Even if he disagreed with higher-ups, he would never resort to violating the rules to achieve his goals. In the past, Commander Cao was much smoother than him. However, Commander Xu is extremely stubborn; once he has decided on something, no one can persuade him otherwise. You are right; he has been brainwashed by Zhuang Yu. Now he only sticks to his own ideas, which are actually the ones continuously instilled by Zhuang Yu. If it weren't for Zhuang Yu, things would not have evolved to this point."
Cong Xia gritted his teeth, "What does Zhuang Yu want to do?"
Zhuang Yao said, "I think he wants to create his ideal world. It's every scientist's dream, but his is the most extreme."
"What does his ideal world look like?"
"I was very young when he told me, but my memory system was not complete at the time, and I don't remember it well. I only recall that he was persistent about species optimization. He believes that this world should be left to the excellent species to enjoy. By using ever-advancing technology, these people can live a completely automated life. Then they will have the time to create more valuable things for the world. He believes that those who can drive the world's progress should be rewarded with the fruits of human progress, while the lower class should only serve these people. I am not his only clone; he tried many times before me, but they all failed. Some clones survived, but because their intelligence wasn't high enough, he abandoned them. That's the kind of madman he is."
Cheng Tianbi said, "It seems that the arrival of the apocalypse is in line with his intentions, as it suddenly classifies humans into superior and inferior based on whether they are mutants or not."
Zhuang Yao's eyes showed a hint of coldness, "So, he feels right at home in this era."
"We absolutely cannot let Zhuang Yu and Xu Ying succeed. I will send someone to inquire about Commander Cao's attitude again. Now, let's go to District 2 and see what Zhuang Yu is up to."
The group headed towards District 2.
This was destined not to be a friendly meeting. Many of them harbored the thought of cutting off Zhuang Yu's head as soon as they saw him, even though they knew they couldn't do that.
Zhuang Yu was clearly aware that they were coming and had been waiting in the meeting room, sipping tea. When he saw them, he greeted them with a beaming smile. After the incident of kidnapping Xu Hang last time, he lost quite a bit of face. This time, he felt like he had won back some ground, and naturally, he was pleased.
Zhou Fenglan sat next to him, crossing his legs arrogantly as he looked at them.
Zhuang Yu smiled at Zhuang Yao, "Little Zhuang Yao, you seem to have grown a bit taller. Seeing you is like seeing myself in my childhood. It truly makes me feel gratified."
Zhuang Yao coldly responded, "Let's not waste words."
Cong Zhenzhong said solemnly, "Zhuang Yu, the highest purpose of a scientist is to serve humanity with science, not to use science to harm compatriots and fulfill selfish desires. If you are still clear-headed, then stop."
Zhuang Yu chuckled, "Strange, with my high intelligence, I can't quite understand what you're saying. You must not have explained it clearly."
Deng Xiao angrily retorted, "Stop pretending! Those roaches all over the city were released by you, right?"
Zhuang Yu raised an eyebrow, "Do you have any evidence? Don't think you can accuse someone without paying a price. I've lost sleep for several days trying to stop those roaches."
Compared to the truly sleep-deprived Cong Zhenzhong, Zhuang Yu appeared spirited and showed no signs of fatigue.
Cong Zhenzhong said in a low voice, "You have a way to control those roaches, then come up with it quickly. The next generation of those mutated roaches will be born in three days, and they will launch large-scale attacks on humans. There are hardly any people left in Beijing. How long do you plan to keep causing trouble?"
Zhuang Yu said, "I told you, I'm working hard on it. Maybe I'll figure it out in a few days, maybe it will take some more time. Without the genome sequencer, many tasks are difficult to proceed with. Besides, both me and Fenglan are on the brink of breaking through to the Second Stage. This matter is a serious distraction, and it's really annoying how all the important and urgent things coincide."
Cong Zhenzhong said coldly, "What do you want? Speak up."
Zhuang Yu squinted at Cong Zhenzhong and then burst out laughing, "Professor Cong, you are always so rigid yet adorable. We've been competing for over ten years, and the victories and defeats are almost evenly split. But, it seems you are asking me for something for the first time."
"I am not asking you; I demand that you come up with a solution to the roach crisis."
"I already said I need a genome sequencer, and two weeks ago, I gave you a list of materials required for experiments. You should have prepared them by now. Additionally, Fenglan and I need to break through to the Second Stage, and we need the support of your Cong Xia. This way, I can focus on my research. What do you say?"
"The genome sequencer does not belong exclusively to District 3. You should apply to the Dean. We have never prevented any researcher from using it as long as it's for legitimate purposes."
"Ah, the Dean? Are you talking about the one who is going to retire and is already preparing for retirement? What's the use of applying to him? The sequencer is located in District 3, and every time I apply for 'legitimate purposes,' it gets rejected, severely hindering my work. Now, I request that the sequencer be moved to lab c34 between District 2 and 3, and each District Leader will decide whether the researchers have the right to use it, with scheduled appointments. Otherwise, it will appear that you, Professor Cong, are being too arbitrary, and that's not good, is it?"
"The Dean prevented you from using it because you created too many genetically modified humans with extremely low success rates. You are not using guinea pigs; you are using people."
"It's precisely because I have so few chances to use the sequencer that I can't improve the success rate. Speaking of which, who should be blamed for this? I create genetically modified humans to optimize their genes, so that more ordinary people can become mutants. Otherwise, what's the difference between those ordinary people and the dead? They are always at risk of dying at any moment. Furthermore, I haven't forced anyone to participate in the experiments; all the participants volunteered."
"Exchanging food and medicine for their 'volunteerism'?"
Zhuang Yu chuckled, "Well, they lack the ability to acquire them on their own. This is the tragedy of being ordinary people. They voluntarily choose to take part in this gamble. Those who succeed in becoming mutants win. Not only do they live well themselves, but their families also have enough to eat. Isn't that a win-win situation for everyone?"
Cong Zhenzhong clenched his teeth, "What about the 90% of those who fail?"
Zhuang Yu shrugged, "Blame their bad luck."
"You..."
Zhuang Yao held Cong Zhenzhong's shoulder, "Professor Cong, it seems you haven't rested enough. Let me handle this."
Cong Zhenzhong's eyes were bloodshot, with dark circles under them, and his hair was disheveled. He looked much more agitated than usual due to fatigue, which made Cong Xia feel both distressed and angry.
While he tirelessly researched new energy, new weapons, mutant seeds, and mutant poultry to change the living conditions of ordinary people and enable them to have enough food and clothing, there were people who didn't care about the lives of those ordinary people. They used methods that completely contradicted his own to carry out so-called reconstruction work. Cong Xia completely understood the anger and helplessness in Cong Zhenzhong's heart.
Sometimes, Cong Xia felt they were already very powerful, especially in terms of combat capabilities. They were almost invincible, never having experienced true defeat. However, the existence of Zhuang Yu and Xu Ying repeatedly reminded them that having military power alone was not enough to restore the world to normal. At least, until their military strength became strong enough to dominate everything, they still had to compromise and bow their heads in the face of many abhorrent facts.
Like now. If they could disregard the lives of ordinary people and continue to battle with Zhuang Yu, it might not be them who couldn't bear it first. After all, the method for safely breaking through to the Second Stage was in their hands. But they couldn't do it, so in this round of competition with Zhuang Yu, they lost.
Zhuang Yao said, "The genome sequencer can be placed in lab c34, but it cannot be used on a first-come, first-served basis. To ensure fairness, the time should be evenly divided among the six districts. Each district can use it for a maximum of four days per month, and the rest of the time will be used for maintenance and rest."
Zhuang Yu smiled, "Agreed."
Districts 1 and 2 are mostly under Zhuang Yu's control, Districts 3 and 6 belong to Cong Zhenzhong and Tang Tingzhi, and Districts 4 and 5 are on the side of the Dean. The domain-evolved individuals in Districts 4 and 5 have little real power. In general, the genome sequencer is mostly used by Zhuang Yu, Cong Zhenzhong, and Tang Tingzhi.
"The experimental materials you requested on the list, we can only get 80% of them; there is no more available. As for you and Zhou Fenglan breaking through to the Second Stage, Cong Xia can help you, but it should be after you have resolved the roach crisis."
Zhuang Yu shook his head with a smile, "No, I need it right away."
Tang Tingzhi said expressionlessly, "There are only sixty hours left until the roaches reproduce again. No matter what method you use to eliminate them, it will take time. You should exterminate the roaches immediately."
Zhuang Yu nonchalantly replied, "Alright, let's compromise. You help Fenglan break through to the Second Stage first. Once he succeeds and is safe, I will take action."
Zhuang Yao and Cong Zhenzhong exchanged a glance, and Cong Zhenzhong said, "Let's settle for this plan. Two hours later, you come to District 3."
Zhuang Yu smiled, "No hurry. Although I would love to help you, it seems that there are still some agreements between Commander Xu and Commander Cao regarding the allocation of resources in District 2. My approval is not enough; I need Commander Xu's consent as well. So, I have to wait for Commander Xu's orders."
Zhuang Yao sneered, "Zhuang Yu, to be honest, I'm a bit like you in one aspect. I don't care whether those unrelated people outside live or die, so I'm even more patient than you. After all, it won't be me who explodes and dies while breaking through to the Second Stage. We can help all the mutants in Beijing break through to the Second Stage, except for you guys. If this matter drags on for more than three days and the roach's mutated offspring are born, many people will die. At that time, we won't help you. We will watch you and Zhou Fenglan explode into pieces. To avoid this result, Commander Xu's side also needs you to work with them. Let's all be rational, take what we need, and stop when it's enough. If things really get out of control, you won't get anything you want. Is that the result you want?"
Zhuang Yu smiled faintly, "Well said, take what we need, and stop when it's enough."
Within less than twenty minutes, everyone hurriedly left.
Cheng Tianbi and Cong Zhenzhong decided to meet Cao Zhixian again to discuss the next course of action. Zhuang Yao and Tang Tingzhi rushed to the laboratory, holding onto a glimmer of hope that they could research a method to exterminate the roaches quickly, even though they knew that the time was too short, and this task was virtually impossible to accomplish.
Time ticked away, and everyone felt the difficulty of breathing under the pressure.
After 2 AM, Cheng Tianbi and Cong Zhenzhong returned. Both of their faces didn't look good, and they brought back the result of their discussion.
Cong Zhenzhong said, "The Tian Tai Mountain weapon depot cannot be opened to Xu Ying. Beijing City cannot be divided. The temporary plan is to agree to Xu Ying for now, but we will take action after the roach crisis is resolved. Commander Cao plans to send a batch of weapons over to Xu Ying."
Zhuang Yao furrowed his brows, "Xu Ying is not so easy to deal with."
Cong Zhenzhong said, "I'll be responsible for transporting the weapons."
Cong Xia suddenly looked up, "Uncle, are you planning to be taken hostage? No way! Absolutely not!"
"Xu Ying won't do anything to me. First, resolve the roach issue, and then come to rescue me."
"With the experience of kidnapping Xu Hang last time, how could he let us easily find you and take you away? Xu Ying will probably hide you somewhere. Uncle, this is not a good plan. Let's think of something else."
"No matter how many plans we come up with, we don't have enough time. There are still over fifty hours left until the roaches reproduce again, and we need to consider the time to help Zhou Fenglan break through to the Second Stage. In the end, we only have one day. What can we do in one day? Anyway, Xu Ying won't kill me. Let's figure out a solution when the time comes. This is the decision."
"Then I'll go!" Cong Xia suddenly stood up, "I'll go in your place, Xu Ying won't dare to kill me."
Cheng Tianbi looked at Cong Xia, his gaze unfathomable, but he didn't say anything.
"Xiaoxia, I'm better equipped to handle this situation than you. It's not a time to show off."
"Why are you better equipped? Is it because you are a domain-evolved individual? Well, I'm more capable of surviving than you!" Cong Xia's voice trembled slightly, becoming assertive, "If we have to go, then let me go."
Zhuang Yao coldly said, "No, Zhuang Yu wants to slice you and study you. He will discover the secrets you carry. I'll be blunt; it's more severe than Professor Cong's death."
Cong Zhenzhong calmly said, "It's decided. I'll go and inform Zhou Fenglan." After saying that, he walked away without looking back.
Cong Xia sat back in the chair, unable to accept the situation.
No one else spoke either because they didn't know how to console someone facing such peril. Who could calmly watch their last family member taking such a risk?
Cheng Tianbi walked up to Cong Xia, crouched down, and held his hand, looking into his eyes seriously, "Cong Xia, do you trust me?"
Cong Xia stared at Cheng Tianbi, "Of course, I trust you..." His eyes welled up with tears, and he gritted his teeth, "But why did you give me such a solution?"
It was the first time Cong Xia spoke to Cheng Tianbi with a somewhat reproachful tone.
"It's a temporary plan," Cheng Tianbi said, and suddenly his body swayed, his limbs and head disappeared into thin air, turning into an afterimage in the air. Then he transformed into a gentle breeze, dispersing into the surroundings, with more than half of his body turning into an invisible and colorless wind.
Everyone watched in amazement.
In an instant, Cheng Tianbi's form reassembled into a human shape. "50% of my body has now elementalized. No matter where Professor Cong goes, I will find him and bring him back. Trust me."
Looking into Cheng Tianbi's deep eyes, the turbulence in Cong Xia's heart gradually calmed down. Taking a deep breath, he said, "Alright, alright."
Cheng Tianbi patted him on the arm, "Rest now. I'll oversee Zhou Fenglan. When it's critical, I'll wake you."
Since returning to Beijing, they had been tirelessly dealing with the mutated cockroach issue, having no rest until now. With Zhou Fenglan's breakthrough to the second level expected to take over twenty hours, Cong Xia doubted he could endure without rest. Thus, he decided to heed Cheng Tianbi's advice and retire.
Zhuang Yao said, "The rest of you should also rest. Only Cheng Tianbi and I will stay."
Everyone else headed to their rooms.
After a bath, Cong Xia lay down but found himself restless. The joy of safely returning from the northeast had faded. They should have known that peace would rarely last in their lives. Upon reflection, although Mu Fei couldn't leave the forest, their life there had been peaceful, wasn't that the idyllic life he and Cheng Tianbi yearned for?
Truly enviable.
A whirlwind of thoughts flooded Cong Xia's mind until exhaustion finally took over, and he fell asleep.
After a few hours, he awoke, seeing daylight outside. Quickly, he freshened up and headed to the research area. From a distance, he saw a crowd gathered outside a lab. Zhuang Yu sat in a chair, a smile playing on his lips as he watched Zhou Fenglan and Cheng Tianbi inside.
Approaching the glass, Cong Xia saw Cheng Tianbi sitting motionlessly in a corner, his face expressionless. Despite the apparent exhaustion, his eyes shone with the determination of a soldier. Cong Xia's gaze lingered, and for a moment he was transported back to the day they first met. Cong Xia, usually amiable, had been startled by this good-looking yet hot-tempered man who had even drawn a gun on him. Who would have thought that the man he once feared would become the most trusted, important, and beloved person in his life?
If everything could end, he wished they could live carefreely like the Devil Pine and Mu Fei.
Time flew, and Zhou Fenglan's crucial moment arrived. Stepping into the lab, Cong Xia, drawing from his past experiences, was confident. Despite the overwhelming golden energy emanating from Zhou Fenglan, Cong Xia felt that the destructive Cambrian energy within Zhou was not more than that in Shen Changze and Li Dao'ai.
As Zhou Fenglan convulsed in pain, Cong Xia stood by his side, channeling his energy without touching him due to the electrical discharges around Zhou. Watching Zhou Fenglang's near-death state, a wicked thought crossed Cong Xia's mind - it might be better to let him die.
But he couldn't.
Cong Xia used his energy to aid Zhou Fenglan in resisting the destructive force, compressing the vast golden energy into Zhou's core. When victory seemed imminent, Cong Xia intentionally slowed down, wanting Zhou Fenglan to suffer a bit longer.
Cheng Tianbi watched with a slight smile. When their eyes met, they exchanged playful glances.
Finally, the immense golden energy receded into Zhou Fenglan, causing him to faint.
The lab doors opened, and Zhou Fenglan was carried out by the guards.
Exhausted and drenched in sweat, Cong Xia sat down next to Cheng Tianbi, playfully patting his thigh. "Ge, that was tough."
Cheng Tianbi closed his eyes, "You worked hard too."
"Tianbi, I've always trusted you the most. You don't even need to ask."
Cheng Tianbi grasped his hand, "I understand."
Cong Xia leaned against Cheng Tianbi with a smile. He didn't need to envy anyone; he was already fortunate and happy.
