Story Reader / Main Story / 28 Polaris Bond / Story
She found herself at the center of a vast network, emerging as a solitary leader.
She banished her brother who had plotted a rebellion and watched her other brother, indifferent to politics, depart for the Science Council.
But her heart remained untouched.
She could only feel some threads passing her by—
Threads woven with fear, anger, loneliness, and disgust, intermingled with strands of hope, nostalgia, love, and joy.
These threads, tangled with power, conspiracy, obscurity, and truth, stretched out around her.
She stood at the center of this net, feeling every subtle vibration in her palms.
With a slight pull, she could expose a politician's scandal online, halt operations in distant drilling sites, or disrupt the resource supply to space stations.
Life and death, all within her grasp.
For Kowloong, she could sever these threads without hesitation, bearing the consequences of her decisions.
But she only knew these emotions existed; she never truly understood them.
The Science Council?
Hearing about the visitor, Qu furrows her brows.
Yes, it seems to be the Ethics Committee.
Heng Ji, what's going on?
The "Ethics Committee"... Did they come unannounced?
There's been no diplomatic notice at Chaofeng. It looks like you were out of the loop as well.
My informant in the Science Council mentioned that the Ethics Committee cut down a large number of scholars conducting illegal experiments earlier this year... Could this visit be related to "that incident"?
Tsk...
It's possible.
Should we prepare to respond?
If we don't handle this well, it might affect our current cooperation... They seem quite focused on these matters now.
It's inevitable. Ever since Jiyuan's passing, things at Fuxi have been a bit of a mess.
I see.
Qu quickly interrupts Bai Gui, her expression tightening.
Bai Gui pauses, sensing the shift in Qu's mood, and chooses to remain silent.
In the chaos stirred by Yin, those aligned with him and the family faction, including leaders from Yazi, Chaofeng, and Chiwen, were largely removed from their positions by Bian. This left significant leadership voids across three major Kowloong Crew institutions.
While many from Chaofeng and Yazi were not reinstated, Bai Gui was kept on by Qu.
Bai Gui had climbed the ranks to a leadership role within Chiwen under Xun, and after Zheng's death, Qu stripped away her family's residual influence across various branches of the Chamber.
Her family has always emphasized confronting challenges directly. Therefore, Qu is prepared to clear any hurdles in her path, even if it means dealing with her own kin.
As Zheng said, a bottle that holds water can only hold water.
Qu took this philosophy to heart, albeit in her own way. She recognized that some individuals were too vital to let go, so they kept their roles.
Kowloong and the Chamber of Commerce still need Bai Gui's adeptness at managing its complex financial systems.
Not only in Chiwen, but also across the board, Qu held onto many of Xun's picks for the Kowloong Crew. Their specialized knowledge was essential for border security and managing construction projects. Even though Qu had shifted the family dynamics, she didn't completely wipe out all remnants of her family's former influence.
Sorting out the clear from the murky is never merely about drawing lines.
Qu looks over at Bai Gui, who is waiting patiently by the table, and speaks with definitive clarity.
They wouldn't have delved into that scandal without Dominik's green light, and Dominik isn't naive enough to think we wouldn't catch on.
So the conclusion is obvious—
We don't need to intervene. Let them dig as much as they want.
They won't cross the line. They might be bloodhounds, but Dominik still holds the leash.
Understood.
Also, Bai Gui, postpone the Universal Toys Company matter. This issue takes precedence over that deal.
Heng Ji, go to Danhao and bring out that researcher, and take Danhao along as well.
Prepare the itinerary; we're going to the Science Council.
At the Science Council, the main hall is bustling as usual, but there is a palpable tension in the air, like a stone has been tossed into a calm lake.
Hey, did you hear? The leader of Kowloong is coming to the Science Council!
Really? Never heard of it.
You didn't know? That student of Dr. Landau in the Section 3 is her relative.
It's all these dirty political games, always shoving people with connections at us. Disgusting.
And there's someone who barely spent three days as a D-level researcher before she was suddenly promoted to deputy director, all thanks to having a powerful mom!
Does she even have the capability? She's always fixated on her tiny gains...
If her mom was the President of the World Government, would she also get to be an Emperor or something?
Ahem... people are listening...
Well... Kowloong does fund us quite a bit... But still, nepotism is unacceptable!
Are you talking about someone named Villier? That name doesn't sound like a Kowloong native.
Nowadays, giving yourself an exotic name isn't that strange, right? Aren't you called "Kuri go han"—
Stop! Why do you have to bring up my alias online?
But that Villier guy... he's okay.
He must have some real talent; otherwise, Mr. Landau wouldn't have taken him on as a student. Even Dr. Luwei from our division speaks highly of him...
Hey, look, over there! Is that him?
The young researcher tugs at the sleeve of the person next to him, nodding toward the main hall entrance.
Near the main gate stands two figures: one in a dark green outfit, medium height, alongside another wearing the classic white attire of the Science Council.
Entering from the opposite side is a woman also dressed in dark green.
Nice to meet you.
Two pairs of gray, bleak eyes from the same bloodline meet, divided by an impenetrable barrier.
...
An awkward silence spreads between Villier and Qu.
Ahem... Excuse me, may I confirm if you are the leader of the Kowloong Chamber of Commerce?
Qu's cold gaze shifts from Villier to the frail and tired scholar before her. Her expression softens slightly, tempered by years of command, yet her presence remains undeniably authoritative.
Yes, I am.
A pleasure to meet you. I am Luwei.
Luwei extends his hand to Qu, and she reciprocates the gesture.
Given your unexpected arrival, the Chief has sent Villier and myself to receive you.
I've already notified the Chief about the matter. The Council is preparing, I presume?
Sure. The Chief is waiting in the Ethics Committee office. Villier will escort you there.
And your role?
I apologize for not being able to stay, but our work demands urgency and waits for no one.
Understood.
Then I'll take my leave.
Luwei shakes Qu's hand once more, pats Villier on the shoulder, and heads for the elevator.
Lead the way.
Qu suggests, her gaze returning to meet Villier's.
Hmph, you're a glaring misfit here.
I expected you to act more appropriately here.
Are you expecting me to call you "Monarch of Kowloong"?
You are free to choose.
This is the Science Council; science doesn't bow to politics.
Indeed, but it might be easier if you didn't rely on Kowloong's funding.
...
Dominik has requested your presence at this joint interrogation.
Me?
That was the Chief Technician of the Science Council's decision.
Tsk, what a hassle...
I've heard that Gestalt's research is complete and ready for application.
So what?
As I said, you are free to choose.
Theories untested and knowledge unproven are merely empty words.
You are free to return to Kowloong and do whatever you want.
I don't need your promises or expectations.
Of course, you can also stay with the Science Council, join the Arctic Route Union, or venture elsewhere. It's your choice.
Remember, in Kowloong, you can "do whatever you want."
Qu's gaze sharpens, as if her brother, born of the same blood, is nothing more than a pawn in her game.
Yet, the look in Villier's eyes betrays a mix of greed and arrogance.
The two remain silent until Villier pushes open the door to the Ethics Committee office, barely muttering two words through clenched teeth.
We're here.
In the nearly vacant conference room, investigators clad in standard suits and World Government officials gather around a vast table, their attention riveted on Qu as she enters.
Her presence seems to usher in facts and a suffocating silence.
Miss Qu, welcome.
At the far end of the room, a figure sits shrouded in shadow, the room's lighting seemingly avoiding them deliberately.
Members of the Parliament and the Ethics Committee, please head to the inquiry room first.
I'd like to have a word alone with the leader of the Kowloong Chamber of Commerce.
This command, firm and irrefutable, sets everyone in motion.
They pick up their briefcases stuffed with documents or clutch stacks of thick terminals, filing past Qu in an orderly procession.
Nice to meet you, Miss Qu.
A neatly dressed man nods respectfully to Qu as he passes by.
But Qu seems not to notice him, letting him walk by without acknowledgment.
Soon, only Qu, Villier, and the enigmatic figure who chose to remain unseen are left in the room.
Villier, you should leave too.
Villier says nothing, only casting a meaningful glance toward the shadowed end of the conference room before turning to leave, quietly closing the door behind him.
Villier has always despised history. Even during his assessments with the Suanni, history was a subject he endured only grudgingly.
He might not recall that centuries ago, it was common for groups to be sealed in a room, the door locked until they could deliver a result that could change the world—
Because those people often shared a common belief.
Extra! Extra!
Latest news, latest news! Kowloong embroiled in a major inhumane scientific experiment scandal!
Is this a distortion of human nature or a collapse of morality? Why were Kowloong officials completely unaware? Why has the Science Council decided to impose the most severe punishment of expulsion on the perpetrators? What does the future hold for the cooperation between Kowloong and the Council?
Find all answers in today's "Pioneer Review"!
As the electronic tones of a virtual newsboy echo through the streets, crowds gather around newspaper vending machines. Even those previously unaware of the scandal are now drawn to these hubs of information.
Displayed on the screens of these machines, styled like vintage newspapers, is a bold headline that captures the gravity of the situation:
Scandal Rocks Kowloong: Inhumane Experiments Uncovered, "Project Orient" Remains Unaffected
On the morning of October 26, the Ethics Committee of the Science Council and Qu, a leading figure from the Kowloong Chamber of Commerce, convened a press conference.
They announced the findings of the investigation into illegal human experiments conducted within Kowloong over the past few days.
The report revealed that the Intelligent Research Institute affiliated with the Fuxi Research Institute in Kowloong was suspected of using live humans for dissection and memory experiments.
Over the last five years, the case involved fifty-seven unregistered human experiments, affecting more than seventy individuals.
The Science Council stated that the Council has always been committed to standardizing and regulating scientific experiments worldwide.
They particularly emphasized the importance of viewing science as an integral part of human civilization—a fundamental principle for the future of humanity.
Sir Arnold Ziegler, Chairman of the Science Council's Ethics Committee, had also shared some information.
He stated that the investigation in Kowloong was conducted smoothly with significant support from local officials.
When mentioning the investigation, Sir Arnold said, "We have thoroughly investigated all the materials provided by the Fuxi Research Institute headquarters."
We believe this case violates our recognized societal moral consensus and scientific ethical standards.
The main perpetrator conducted numerous unlicensed human live experiments, driven solely by a desire to 'explore the origins of human consciousness'.
Moreover, the experiment even involved some non-consenting participants, which is clearly a criminal offense.
After interrogating the involved personnel, the Science Council decided to expel a total of eighteen individuals involved as a form of punishment.
It is believed that expulsion is the most severe punishment the Science Council can impose on researchers.
Those expelled will not be recognized by the Council, will be unable to secure any legal research funding globally, and will not be eligible to apply for any research permits.
Fortunately, despite the prolonged duration of this case, it did not cause widespread damage.
"However, it remains a profoundly egregious breach of legal and ethical standards, serving as a wake-up call for us," said Sir Arnold.
Qu, the current leader of the Kowloong Chamber of Commerce, bowed in apology, saying,
This tragedy indeed stems from inadequate supervision by Kowloong. I take full responsibility for this failure, and I will personally oversee the follow-up arrangements.
We will only reopen the institute after thorough inspections.
In the future, Kowloong will enhance the scrutiny of scientific ethics and take proactive responsibility.
"We'll also strengthen our ties with the Science Council to create a win-win situation for the world's top scientific forces," she added.
At the end of the press conference, Dr. Wesley Casimir, Deputy Director of the Science Council's Development Division Section One, announced on behalf of Chief Technician Dominik, who was absent.
He announced that the Science Council will maintain a long-term, close cooperation with Kowloong.
This partnership will not be affected by recent events.
The Science Council and the World Government are also considering entrusting Kowloong with the feasibility verification of "Project Eden".
Our Chief believes that despite some flaws, Kowloong's research and development capabilities remain among the best in the world.
"Deepening our cooperation with Kowloong aligns with the next phase of the Science Council's goals," said Dr. Wesley.
"Project Orient", aimed at deep space exploration, is expected to be finalized by the end of the year after review by the World United Government.
The launch missions for this plan will be carried out by the Tsiolkovsky Launch Center in Kowloong, the most advanced aerospace facility on the ground.
A comprehensive investigation report from the Science Council's Ethics Committee and a statement from the Fuxi Research Institute will be jointly released in the coming days.
Four hours before the press conference.
Please, have a seat, Miss Qu.
You should be aware that neither Kowloong nor I appreciate being led by the nose.
It seems I don't need to explain the situation any further.
The Science Council is responsible for the actions of every certified researcher under its jurisdiction.
Every crime they commit while holding our certification is a grave insult to us.
However, this should be an internal matter for Kowloong to handle. You have no right to interfere.
Miss Qu, the principles of the Science Council are not confined by simple territorial jurisdiction.
Our goal is to eliminate this divide, not to follow it and create more.
Even so, conducting investigations in Kowloong without our consent is too much.
As a knowledgeable expert, you must be familiar with our saying, "You can't let others sleep soundly on your own couch."
Qu's tone was razor-sharp, as if she could tear apart the shadows and those hiding within them at any moment.
I offer my apologies for that.
Their actions were indeed at my behest. It was a rush to judgment, and that was my failing.
But please understand, since the incident at the start of the year, the entire Council has been determined to excise the rot festering within.
I heard about the expulsions earlier this year.
Yes, mostly those who committed crimes against humanity in their research.
But you didn't openly address this matter.
It was for the Council's reputation. I had no choice.
At times, you exhibit the stubborn integrity of a scholar, and at others, the cunning of a politician.
So, you needed the Kowloong incident to shake things up.
...
The figure in the shadow falls silent.
Science is just a pawn in the game of politics.
I will do everything in my power to realize the Council's vision, facing what the other members refuse to.
My place is here; I have no choice but to persist.
Kowloong will cooperate. I'll play my part in this act.
But...
The Council will continue its collaboration with Kowloong as always.
Oh?
What exactly does that entail?
Her question is pointed, sharp as a blade at the throat.
...
Our partnership will not be undermined by this incident.
The Council will push for the next decade's plan in Parliament. The KM validation of "Eden-I" will still be entrusted to Kowloong, as previously decided.
Until the lunar base is fully renovated, only the previously constructed Tsiolkovsky Aerospace City of Kowloong can handle this task.
And for "Eden-II", the Science Council will ensure a neutral selection process for the construction site, not entrusting it solely to Kowloong or any other entity.
Then we have reached a consensus.
Just as Qu is about to rise, Dominik adds:
Miss Qu, I must say, you're just like your father.
I am not my father.
And I expect that distinction to be respected.
It was meant as a compliment, Miss Qu.
He was a visionary strategist. Without his initial investments, many of our advancements, including interstellar colonization, would remain but a dream.
But you are indeed different, Miss Qu. Your father was more gentle than you.
With a cold laugh, Qu stands and pushes open the heavy door.
Aren't we all wearing masks?
