High Priest Lanier gave no definite answer, instead taking a roundabout approach:
"Our research into dark side species is still at a relatively early stage. Part of our cooperation with Apocalypse Laboratory was intended to obtain more information in that field."
Ronan began to understand. "In that sense, you at least accomplished part of your goal."
"An Weng certainly was persistent."
High Priest Lanier's remark carried complicated undertones. It was hard to tell whether he was remembering his capable old subordinate, shifting the blame... or hinting at the focus of their next stage of cooperation.
Nor did he stop there. He turned the question back on Ronan. "Professor Ronan, I believe you once said that dark side species were actually fantasy species, and even gave a definition of the latter. Do you have some knowledge of the Human-Faced Spider's origins?"
Ronan did not deny it. "I do have a few ideas, but I need to consider Apocalypse Laboratory's... really, Li Wei's actual actions before reaching any further conclusions. Speaking of which, your joint project is over now, regardless of whether it succeeded. Could I take a look at the relevant files?"
"The materials relating to Apocalypse are still under confidentiality restrictions..."
High Priest Lanier seemed a little troubled, but soon changed tack. "I can discuss it with them. Everyone is exploring the Fog Maze at present, and they should be quite interested in this project. I imagine they would gladly accept an opportunity to contribute and participate."
Ronan chuckled. "Exactly as they should."
Ronan had never considered excluding Li Wei's people from this operation. That would have been impossible anyway.
But getting everyone involved to honestly pull their weight, contribute their fair share, and avoid holding the others back was a challenge that would test anyone.
High Priest Lanier had