Thanks to Xiao Bai's efforts in the high-level meeting room of Third Eye, Tang Xiao avoided being interrogated at the inspection office. Instead, he presented a report to the organization’s leadership, detailing his actions from leaving the team to luring the alien beasts.
Three individuals were seated in the highest positions: Leon and two other senior members of the Academic Committee. Apart from Leon, these two were the organization's most respected and experienced elders.
Surrounding them were other high-ranking officials, including Xiao Bai and others observing from the side.
“Researcher Tang, please explain your decision-making process after arriving in the safety zone. Why did you separate from the team and act alone?” asked the elder seated on the far right.
“Yes, sir.” Tang Xiao, now dressed in his signature lab coat and glasses, began embodying his persona as a cold, meticulous scientific genius.
It was well-known that such geniuses were characterized by their honesty.
And so, Tang Xiao honestly shattered the pretense. “I left the team primarily because of a prior conflict with Mr. Leon at the base.”
Everyone's gaze shifted to Leon, while the other two elders were visibly surprised. “Oh?”
“Mr. Leon attempted to recruit me to support some of his initiatives, but I wasn’t interested, so I declined,” Tang Xiao said with a slight furrow of his brows, adopting a demeanor of complete disinterest in anything unrelated to research. “Who would have thought that shortly after, a mission requiring non-academic personnel to go out was issued? I suspected a trap and decided to leave midway.”
Silence filled the room. Leon's face turned ashen, while the others seemed amused, likely not expecting Tang Xiao to so bluntly lay the matter bare.
This approach didn’t conform to the usual etiquette of political maneuvering. Weren’t such underhanded dealings typically acknowledged in private while maintaining a polite facade? Who would just call it out in the open?
Oh, right. Tang Xiao wasn’t a politician; he was just a researcher.
The spectators among the higher-ups suddenly remembered the peculiarities of such scientists. Immersed in their field, they often showed disdain or ignorance for matters outside of research. For better or worse, these tendencies made them oblivious to political scheming.
And everyone knew that these scientific geniuses were often too prideful—or indifferent—to lie or cover up the truth.
The crowd’s expressions shifted subtly as they looked at Leon.
One elder turned to Leon. “Did you approach him?”
Leon cleared his throat awkwardly. “No, I—”
“For what it’s worth, the dining area where it happened is under surveillance,” Tang Xiao casually added.
Leon gritted his teeth. “I did have lunch with him, but Researcher Tang may have misunderstood my intentions. Moreover, the recently reinstated mandatory mission was solely meant to update mushrooms and plant data. To suggest it was targeting him is absurd.”
“And the focus of this inquiry shouldn't be on that,” Leon said, tapping the table to redirect attention. “The question is how you knew what the alien beasts were after and how you managed to lure them to a specific area.”
Indeed, that was the primary reason for the inquiry.
The room’s attention shifted back to Tang Xiao, waiting for his response.
Anything related to the Beast Tide or the King of Mushroom was a matter of survival for humanity, and Third Eye demanded full transparency on these matters.
Under everyone’s gaze, Tang Xiao spoke calmly. “I was about to explain. After parting with the team, I initially intended to collect plant samples casually. However, I stumbled upon a peculiar creature in the forest.”
“A peculiar creature?”
“It resembled a trilobite from the subphylum Trilobitomorpha, class Trilobita, measuring 8–10 cm in length and 2–3 cm in width. Its body featured numerous rib-like appendages, and its white coloration blended almost seamlessly with the snow. If not for my keen eyesight, I might have missed it,” Tang Xiao explained, pushing his glasses up. “However, this creature exhibited abilities entirely different from documented trilobites. It could fly. Upon noticing my presence, it extended dragonfly-like wings from its second dorsal segment and vanished in an instant.”
The audience exchanged incredulous glances.
“Wait, Researcher Tang, you’re saying you encountered a creature resembling an extinct species. What does this have to do with the alien beasts?” someone couldn’t help but ask.
“Exactly. Isn’t it fascinating? Trilobites have long been extinct, yet a similar creature appears. How have they survived until now? Where have they lived? And what’s their food source?” Tang Xiao’s voice carried excitement as he speculated. His enthusiasm even drew in the two academic elders seated near Leon.
“That is indeed intriguing.”
“Right? Wouldn’t you want to investigate if you were there?” Tang Xiao asked.
“Gentlemen—Doctors,” Leon interrupted, forcibly steering the discussion back. “The topic here is why the alien beasts are interested in this creature and how you deduced their target.”
Tang Xiao: “I was just about to continue. Driven by personal curiosity, after confirming the existence of that creature, I immediately began searching the forest. During this search, I discovered numerous signs of alien beasts gathering. I quickly used the communicator to notify the Masked Unit, but at that point, I hadn't yet identified the connection between the two. However, I soon noticed something unusual — the alien beasts were tracking something.”
“After that, I decided to quietly follow the tracks left by the alien beasts. Through some evidence, I confirmed that the alien beasts were indeed hunting this creature.”
Of course, all of this was fabricated.
Leon couldn’t hold back. “Are you sure you’re not making this up?”
Tang Xiao retorted, “Then why doesn’t Mr. Leon provide a convincing explanation? If you can’t, perhaps you should listen to mine.”
“Everyone here remembers my earlier research on the tree-structured network and the King Mushroom spores’ ability to collect and transmit genetic information, eventually converging at the King of Mushroom. This research supports the genetic predation theory, suggesting that mushroom invasions target various species for their genes. Now, consider the alien beasts gathering in large numbers. Could it be that the King of Mushroom is pursuing this creature to acquire its genes?”
Tang Xiao presented a compelling argument, drawing on his biological expertise and crafting a narrative that was both rigorous and bold. Many of the researchers and higher-ups in attendance found themselves agreeing with his explanation.
The atmosphere in the room shifted. What had begun as a serious inquiry morphed into an academic discussion. Given their backgrounds, many present—still engaged in active research—naturally gravitated toward Tang Xiao’s perspective.
This was precisely what Leon had hoped to avoid.
It was happening again: the exclusionary, academic fortress being built in real-time, shutting him out.
For Tang Xiao, however, this was home turf. After all, what researcher didn’t know how to spin an enticing hypothesis to secure funding?
Of course, Tang Xiao’s confidence wasn’t mere pretense. His expertise made him more than capable of navigating this inquiry.
To Tang Xiao, his confidence in getting through this inquiry stemmed from one simple fact: he was indeed an expert in this field.
His previous paper had conclusively addressed one of the three major mysteries of the mushroom kingdom, making him an authority in this area.
And people always tend to trust the power of authority.
Seeing that some people present were already discussing the possibilities he raised, Leon raised his voice, “Then how did you lure the alien beasts to that area, and how did you survive the explosion? That’s the key point.”
“Simple,” Tang Xiao replied nonchalantly. “I didn’t go to the explosion site at all. The reason I was confident about detonating there was because that strange creature would head to that location. That hill had its food—a unique fruit from the Kadira tree.”
“Kadira? That name sounds familiar,” someone murmured from the side.
“It’s the name of a newly documented plant species outside the safe zone, likely from seeds brought by migratory birds. It’s a non-toxic fruit that has recently proliferated,” Tang Xiao explained effortlessly. He had done his homework in preparation for the inquiry, ensuring his explanation was backed by research.
“While tracking the movements of the alien beasts, I noticed that all the Kadira fruits along the path were gone. This was highly unusual, as most alien beasts, except for a few herbivores, have no interest in this fruit. Additionally, the location where I first encountered that strange creature also lacked Kadira fruits. This led me to confirm that the fruit was its food source.”
“On its path forward, the hill region had the largest concentration of Kadira trees. By calculating the mutant beasts' speed and trajectory, it wasn’t hard to deduce the timing of the explosion.”
“I don’t know what some people might be speculating,” Tang Xiao added, “but all I did was make a simple deduction and calculation to conclude.”
At this point, one of the elders seated on the stage chuckled. “So, you’re saying that, based on your hypothesis, you made all of us gamble with you?”
Tang Xiao looked calm. “Why not?”
“Hahaha! Bold, aren’t you, you arrogant genius?” The elder couldn’t help but laugh. “Didn’t you consider the consequences if you lost the bet?”
“I didn’t, because I don’t think I was wrong.”
The crowd couldn’t help but laugh—some out of frustration at Tang Xiao’s unabashed attitude, and others out of shared understanding. They had seen many geniuses, and some of them were geniuses themselves. Indeed, geniuses were always that arrogant.
At first, Tang Xiao’s polite and cooperative demeanor had some wondering if he was an anomaly. But now, after hearing his explanations, it became clear—he was just like every other genius. The only difference was that this time, the entire base had been made to gamble with him.
“Afterward, I found a cave to survive the harsh weather. Luckily—or unluckily—the cave had a bear in it. Fortunately, I had brought weapons. Though it came at some cost, I managed to acquire the bear’s corpse to keep me warm through the blizzard,” Tang Xiao explained with clarity and precision.
The two elders and Leon continued to ask about the details, and Tang Xiao provided answers to each question with ease.
“If you don’t believe me, you can check these two points on the safe zone map. Look at the condition of the Kadira fruits there and the traces left by the alien beasts. That should substantiate my account.”
Of course, all of this had been staged. Before the inquiry, Jun Tesi had already been dispatched to create evidence that aligned with Tang Xiao’s narrative. As for the strange creature, wasn’t it obliterated in the explosion anyway?
With Tang Xiao's calm and composed demeanor, his detailed explanations, and corroborating evidence, most people present had made up their minds. Aside from the lack of physical evidence, which couldn’t be faked, Tang Xiao’s testimony was convincing.
Apart from Leon, who was visibly displeased, everyone else was now inclined to believe Tang Xiao. After all, thanks to Tang Xiao’s bold yet meticulous actions, a catastrophe that could have destroyed the entire base had been averted. They couldn’t shortchange a hero.
Leon, however, was filled with unwillingness. He stared at Tang Xiao’s composed figure, feeling not just resentment but also jealousy.
He despised this type of scientific genius—the Xiao Bai type. Now, there was another one of them.
Two hours later, a team was sent to verify the evidence reported back, confirming the existence of the Kadira fruits and the tracks of the alien beasts. With a two-to-one vote, Tang Xiao’s account was accepted. The atmosphere in the room relaxed.
At this moment, Xiao Bai suddenly stood up from his seat, crossed the barrier, and approached Tang Xiao. “Now that this matter is settled, shall we move on to the next item while everyone is still here?”
“What next item?”
“Is it not over yet?” The spectators, sensing a shift in tone, returned to their seats.
“Honorable elders of the Academic Committee,” Xiao Bai announced, “I would like to present evidence regarding bribery involving the acting leader and certain high-ranking officials.” With that, he took out a tablet.
The elders were momentarily stunned and turned to Leon, whose expression had grown exceptionally grim. “Xiao Bai, what is the meaning of this? This meeting was convened to investigate Tang Xiao’s suspicious behavior in this incident.”
Xiao Bai retorted with a single sentence that silenced Leon’s challenge: “What are you so guilty about?”
The tablet began playing, showing photographs of Leon secretly meeting with several high-ranking officials.
“Manson, Dean, and Elthorpe—all of them suddenly changed their stances after meeting with you. They went from opposing to supporting the reinstatement of the researchers’ mandatory duty program. I’m curious, Dr. Leon—oh, apologies, Mr. Leon—can you explain why their opinions shifted so drastically after those private meetings?”
“You’re not going to claim that you simply persuaded them with words, are you?” Xiao Bai mocked. “Even we scientists find it hard to believe that politicians would change their minds so easily.”
Leon sneered, “I have a Ph.D., so you can address me as Dr. Leon. As for your accusations, Dr. Xiao Bai, do you not understand the principle of burden of proof? A few photos aren’t enough to substantiate bribery. Where is your evidence?”
“Oh, so it was just a casual meal then?” Xiao Bai’s sneer deepened.
Leon’s eyes darkened as he glared at Xiao Bai but chose not to respond. He wasn’t sure how much evidence Xiao Bai had. If he responded now and it turned out to be a trap, his credibility would suffer greatly.
But staying silent wasn’t an option either. The murmurs of the crowd were threatening to unravel his composure. The humiliation of being cornered by Xiao Bai’s taunts felt unbearable.
As the standoff continued, a person suddenly burst into the room.
“Dr. Dalton—he, he’s awake!” the assistant stammered.
The meeting was abruptly interrupted as Dalton requested to see Xiao Bai and Tang Xiao. Leon silently breathed a sigh of relief, though unease lingered.
Tang Xiao and Xiao Bai, on the other hand, didn’t overthink it. Following the assistant, they headed to the Third Eye’s most secure and secretive Central Hospital.
Dalton appeared significantly aged compared to the last time Tang Xiao had seen him through a video feed.
It wasn’t his outward appearance but his eyes. The last time, though confined to a bed, Dalton’s eyes had been lively, even joking with Dr. Feng. Now, they were clouded, resembling those of someone nearing the end of their life.
Seeing Tang Xiao and Xiao Bai enter, Dalton’s oddly crooked face slowly formed a smile. “Hello, Tang Xiao. I didn’t expect we’d meet again so soon.”
“First, I must thank you for your contribution to the Third Eye. Without you, who knows how many lives would have been lost today?”
Tang Xiao responded, “It’s my duty. Without this place, I wouldn’t be able to pursue the research I want to do.”
Dalton laughed heartily at his words, though the exertion left him gasping for air. A nurse rushed to assist him with oxygen.
“Ah, that pleases me more than any compliment. Forgive me for being so emotional,” Dalton said with a smile. “After all, this organization was founded with that very purpose in mind. Thank you again for protecting a sanctuary for researchers and the budding fruits of their labor.”
“I’ve heard you’re not yet an official scientist. I was thinking…”
The assistant standing nearby coughed lightly, a helpless reminder: “Chief Dalton, Tang Xiao's promotion has already broken records. Besides, most researchers recognize his achievements. He’s even leading a project at the moment.”
The implication was clear: even if Dalton wanted to grant Tang Xiao a promotion, there needed to be a proper pretext for it, such as tangible contributions.
“Oh, that's true, but I don't think that day will be too far off, will it?” Dalton grinned, full of confidence in Tang Xiao. “I used to attend Scientist Promotion Ceremonies regularly in my earlier years, and I hope I'll be the one presenting it to you when the time comes. For now, though, I believe there won’t be any objections to awarding you a Special Contribution Medal.”
After saying that, the assistant on the side brought up a special medal in red cloth and handed it to Tang Xiao.
Looking down, Tang Xiao noticed the medal bore the insignia of the Third Eye, bordered with gold edges.
“Once again, we thank you for your contributions to the Third Eye. We commend your wisdom, courage, and decisive action. We grant recipients of the Special Contribution Medal full access to the store, a 20% discount card, and permanent free medical benefits,” the assistant solemnly explained. “Since the founding of the Third Eye, only three individuals have ever received this honor.”
Tang Xiao accepted the medal, replying, “Thank you. The free medical benefits are particularly important to me.”
The assistant: “...”
Shouldn’t the emphasis be on the fact that only three people have received this honor? And why was free medical care the most significant aspect?
As if reading the assistant’s bewildered expression, Tang Xiao helpfully explained, “I suppose it’s just bad luck. I visit the medical wing so often that I’ve practically become friends with the doctors there.”
The assistant: “...”
Dalton laughed hoarsely from his hospital bed. He had expected as much—someone like Tang Xiao wouldn’t feel particularly proud of such recognition. It reminded him of how he used to hand out certificates just to amuse children.
“Oh, right. I heard you don’t have a mentor yet,” Dalton suddenly remarked, casting a mischievous glance at Xiao Bai. “What a pity. I think the title 'Dr. Tang' would suit you quite well.”
Tang Xiao didn’t quite grasp the significance of the remark and hesitated before responding, ”Uh, I think I’d fit the title too.”
“Haha, such a shame I’m in this state now; otherwise, I’d definitely compete to have you as my student,” Dalton chuckled. “Alright then, my dear boy, would you mind stepping out for a moment? I have some private matters to discuss with Dr. Xiao.”
Tang Xiao nodded and left the room, guided by the assistant.
Left alone with Dalton, Xiao Bai sat at the bedside, and a silence filled the room.
Dalton was no longer casual with Xiao Bai. Instead, he sighed and asked directly, “Do you really think he’s unsuitable?”
Xiao Bai didn’t respond, but Dalton didn’t need an answer. Muttering to himself, he said, “So be it. I’ll revoke Leon’s acting leadership.”
Xiao Bai nodded silently.
“Oh, and are you really not planning to take on a student?” Dalton teased. “It’s the first time I’ve seen you stick your neck out for someone. Or is it that fighting for someone makes it all the more satisfying? If that’s the case, maybe I’ll try to steal him from you.”
Xiao Bai’s eye twitched, but he ignored the old man’s playful taunts, turning to leave.
Watching him go, Dalton smiled faintly. It was the first time he had seen Xiao Bai not immediately refuse—how interesting.
Was Xiao Bai finally beginning to move past the emotional barriers he had locked himself behind?
But as Dalton smiled, his face suddenly contorted. Unable to suppress the tickle in his throat, he erupted into a violent coughing fit, bringing up bloody sputum.
“Leader!” the nearby nurse cried out, pale with fright, and hurriedly called for a doctor.
With the doctor’s assistance, Dalton managed to calm his breathing, but his complexion had turned even worse.
“Dr. Dalton, please, you must take better care of yourself,” the doctor urged. “Everyone is counting on your recovery.”
“It’s no use. I know my body better than anyone,” Dalton sighed. “I just can’t rest easy yet.”
Leon wasn’t up to the task. His previous chosen successor had met an untimely end. Who could take over the Third Eye after his passing?
Names flashed through his mind one by one before finally settling on the image of Xiao Bai’s back as he left the room.
Dalton had never seriously considered Xiao Bai before. He could sense that after the loss of Ms. Xiao, Xiao Bai had closed off his heart. He continued his research out of sheer interest, but he had lost the sense of responsibility that would compel him to lead. He had intentionally or unintentionally distanced himself from others, maintaining contact only with Dr. Feng and Dawson.
Such a person couldn’t possibly be a leader.
But now, he was willing to stand up for Tang Xiao. Could this mean Xiao Bai was beginning to change?
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