Genius Club

Lin Xian shook his head, puzzled by the question. “Hibernation has side effects?”

The notion was unfamiliar to him. In science fiction films, hibernation was depicted as a miraculous cure-all—sleep for centuries without any issues. However, after listening to Professor Xu Yun’s insights, Lin Xian realized it was more complicated than he initially thought.

“Every medical procedure carries some risk. Can you name a treatment that doesn’t have side effects? Especially something as intricate as human hibernation—it’s bound to have its challenges,” the professor remarked.

“I’m not sure, Professor Xu,” Lin Xian responded. “What exactly are the side effects of hibernation? Do they impact bodily functions?”

Professor Xu shook his head, tapping his temple thoughtfully. “The most significant risk is memory loss due to the prolonged inactivity of brain signals,” he explained. “Physically, there are no adverse effects; even muscle degradation can be countered with physical therapy. However, memory impairment from brain dormancy is unavoidable. Our current understanding suggests that hibernation significantly slows down physiological responses, but brain activity relies on intricate neural stimuli. The longer the hibernation, the more severe the memory loss. Typically, any hibernation exceeding twenty years could result in complete amnesia.”

Stunned by this revelation, Lin Xian pondered the implications. Although his expertise was in humanities, the concept of memory loss seemed logical, and it was a subject seldom explored in his favorite sci-fi stories. “Science fiction doesn’t always align with reality,” he realized.

Professor Xu gently stroked his daughter’s delicate arm, smiling tenderly. “Honestly, it doesn’t matter if Yi Yi forgets me. She’ll start afresh, whether or not she remembers her aging father.”

“But the thought of forgetting her is unbearable for me,” he confessed, his voice tinged with emotion. “Yi Yi was full of life in her youth. My memories of her are precious and far too scarce; losing any would be devastating.”

“And what about our emotions? Waking up as strangers, devoid of any past connections—that’s a terrifying prospect.”

Xu Yun offered Lin Xian a comforting smile. “That’s precisely why I’ve decided against hibernation. I’ll treasure my memories of Yi Yi for as long as I live. Every moment will be dedicated to perfecting the hibernation technology for her future.”

“Lin Xian, if you’re around when Yi Yi wakes up… please look after her.”

Lin Xian quickly objected, “No, no, no. I can’t take on such a responsibility!”

“Professor, don’t be so dark,” Lin Xian tried to reassure him. “The future of science is unpredictable. Maybe they’ll find a solution to the memory problem. You need to stay healthy… what father wouldn’t want to see his daughter’s life unfold?”

Professor Xu smiled warmly but remained silent.

“So, Lin Xian, what brings you here today?”

Lin Xian nodded, producing an invitation. “This Saturday night, MX Company is hosting a grand celebration, and they would be honored if you could attend.”

Expecting a polite decline, Lin Xian was surprised when…

“Certainly,” Xu Yun agreed, grinning as he patted Lin Xian on the back. “You’ve been a great help. I owe it to you to support this event. Besides, I could use a bit of fun—it’s been too long since I’ve felt this light-hearted. We’ll definitely share a toast that night!”

That evening, several company executives took Lin Xian out for a night on the town, which stretched into the early hours.

The next day, he reported Xu Yun’s acceptance to Zhao Ying Jun. She smiled knowingly, “Sending you with the invitation was perfect. Had we approached him directly, he might have declined.”

“I don’t have any special influence,” Lin Xian confessed. “It’s just that the professor is in good spirits and eager to relax.”

Zhao Ying Jun handed him several more invitations from her desk. “Here, take these extra ones. Feel free to invite family, classmates, or friends.”

Lin Xian took just one. “One is enough. I only have one friend in Donghai.” He had promised Gao Yang not to forget him should he become wealthy. His indulgent friend wouldn’t want to miss a lavish banquet.

“Is this event exclusive to our company, aside from Professor Xu?” Lin Xian asked.

Zhao Ying Jun confirmed, “Yes, it’s primarily an internal gathering. I kept it small to maintain a relaxed atmosphere.”

“But this morning, an influential figure asked to attend, wanting to extend his congratulations.”

“Who might that be?” Lin Xian inquired, intrigued.

“Someone you know,” Zhao Ying Jun replied, her smile broadening. “Chu Shan He.”

Lin Xian was taken aback. “Chu Shan He? His attendance is unexpected.”

“Not for us,” Zhao Ying Jun clarified, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. “Chu Shan He isn’t just interested in our modest achievements. He’s coming primarily to honor Professor Xu.”

“He’s been a long-time supporter of the professor’s work. As a passionate advocate for science, he’s eager to personally congratulate him.”

“He won’t stay long, though. Chu Shan He is always composed and dignified. Likely, he’ll give a brief speech, pay his respects to the professor, and leave before the meal.”

Lin Xian nodded, understanding the dynamics. Chu Shan He’s attendance was a tribute to Professor Xu and a testament to his respect for the scientific community.

“This MX Company banquet is certainly attracting notable figures,” Lin Xian remarked. “Having Professor Xu was impressive enough. Chu Shan He’s presence adds significant prestige.”

Zhao Ying Jun paused, giving Lin Xian a meaningful look. “Indeed, our banquet is of great significance.”

“Remember the science fundraiser? Chu Shan He often brings his beloved daughter to major events, almost as if he’s showcasing her… ensuring everyone recognizes her beauty.”

“And so…”

She glanced at Lin Xian. “Chu Shan He won’t be arriving alone. He’s bringing his daughter, Chu An Qing.”