Genius Club

According to the pages, Dr. Michaelson, renowned as the “Father of Hibernation,” revealed a groundbreaking solution to preventing ice crystal formation in cells at subzero temperatures. His innovative approach involved a high-oxygen liquid that, when inhaled, permeates the bloodstream and integrates deeply with the water molecules within cells. This integration prevents the water from freezing, even at temperatures as low as -200°C, thus significantly reducing cellular activity and addressing the critical “ice crystal problem” in hibernation science.

“Impressive, truly groundbreaking,” Lin Xian marveled, though the science largely eluded him.

On the following page, Dr. Michaelson elaborated further: “The resolution of the ice crystal issue brings us a step closer to perfecting the liquid solution for hibernation pods. However, the full development of hibernation technology is still beyond our immediate reach. This technology, with its potential to alter global dynamics, cannot be realized by any single nation or institute alone. It requires a collaborative global effort and significant investment to achieve breakthroughs within a decade or more.”

Lin Xian reflected on these words as he gazed out the window. “No wonder Professor Xu Yun insisted that developing hibernation pods demands international cooperation,” he mused. Scientific progress is a slow and steady accumulation of knowledge, fraught with missteps and detours.

He speculated whether the technological stagnation in the dream world over six centuries might stem from misguided efforts.

After over two hours of intensive reading, Lin Xian managed to identify key elements in the preparation of the hibernation pod’s liquid. Although the concepts were complex and largely beyond his grasp, his goal was not complete comprehension but rather to “scan and copy” the information with his eyes for application in the real world.

“How much of this Professor Xu Yun can understand and utilize will depend on his expertise,” Lin Xian thought to himself, acknowledging his own limitations in the sciences.

He remained in the library until six in the evening, just as the staff began closing up. Seizing a moment of inattention, he discreetly tucked the book under his clothes and smuggled it out. He then settled in a nearby tea shop to continue his studies into the night, recalling the last time he had worked this hard was during his preparations for his art school entrance exams.

At 12:42 AM, Lin Xian awoke in his own bed, the familiar white light signaling the end of his dream. Quickly, while the details were fresh in his mind, he scribbled down the theories, formulas, and equations he had memorized onto scratch paper. This routine continued for four days, transferring crucial information from the book “Analysis and Prospects of Hibernation Technology” from his dreams to reality.

This task was challenging for Lin Xian, an art design student with limited background in physics and chemistry. He found himself unable to fully understand many of the chemical equations and formulas; they were merely patterns to be copied. However, he managed the textual descriptions with more ease.

By the fourth morning, Lin Xian had compiled approximately twenty pages of handwritten notes, a testament to his diligent efforts in his dreams. Although unsure of their accuracy, he was hopeful that Professor Xu Yun might glean some useful insights from them.

“Better deliver these to Professor Xu Yun immediately,” he resolved. After binding the pages together, Lin Xian left his house, hailed a taxi, and headed directly to the university district.

Since graduating six months ago, Lin Xian had returned to his university only once to collect his academic records. Now, he was back for the second time. During his last visit in September, he had observed the freshman military training ceremony.

“Here we are, young man,” announced the taxi driver, pulling up across from the gate of Donghai University. Lin Xian paid and exited the taxi, his attention caught by three sleek black cars lined up at the entrance, each guarded by two men in black suits and sunglasses.

“What’s going on here? A movie shoot?” Lin Xian wondered aloud, observing the lavish vehicles: two black Lexus SUVs and a stately black Maybach sedan.

He didn’t know the specific model, but the Maybach exuded a discreet air of luxury.

“Is some wealthy student arriving today?” Lin Xian pondered, his curiosity piqued.

Just then, the rear door of the Maybach opened, and a robust, dynamic middle-aged man emerged, adjusting his attire.

It took only a moment for Lin Xian to recognize him: Chu Shan He, president of the Donghai City Chamber of Commerce, renowned for his 200 million yuan donation at the science development fundraiser.

“What’s he doing at Donghai University?” Lin Xian wondered, recalling Chu Shan He’s longstanding support for Professor Xu Yun and the professor’s deep respect for him.

A realization struck him: Chu Shan He might also be seeking Professor Xu Yun today.

Concealing himself behind a tree, Lin Xian remembered the wax seal bearing the Genius Club emblem and Chu Shan He’s generous contribution at the fundraiser.

“If Zhao Ying Jun received an invitation from the Genius Club, then surely Chu Shan He, with his influence, did too.”

Gripping his manuscript, Lin Xian watched Chu Shan He’s commanding presence beside the Maybach. “Why hadn’t I noticed this crucial detail earlier? If anyone in Donghai City is worthy of the Genius Club, it’s definitely Chu Shan He!”

“Why is Chu Shan He here now?” Lin Xian mused, sensing an undercurrent of danger. “What is his true intent?”