Recycling Station, Abandoned Building
Inside a massive nutrient tank.
The previous "tenant" of this nutrient tank had been the Harvester Queen. Its current tenant had become Pang Xiang.
The Harvester Queen's grotesque body had been filled with a predator's elegance.
Pang Xiang, on the other hand, was pure obesity—bloated and cumbersome.
Yet the two creatures occupied roughly the same amount of space.
Chief Engineer stood with his arms crossed. Aunt Xiang's expression shifted unpredictably. In the room, the only sound was the hum of the testing equipment.
After a long while, Professor Han raised his head and said calmly, "Extensive burns over the entire body, internal bleeding, severe tearing in some muscle groups, moderate radiation—"
"Just give me the result," Chief Engineer said without turning his head.
"First option: ordinary surgical repair. However, the best outcome for the patient would be mild disability. He would be able to handle his own food and clothing, but fighting would no longer be possible."
Professor Han glanced at the remains of the Harvester Queen's corpse.
"Second option: replace the patient's circulatory system with hers. But the operation would be riskier, and it would cause severe biological rejection."
Chief Engineer said nothing. After a moment of silence, Aunt Xiang spoke. "Use the second option."
"Very well. I'll make the preparations."
Professor Han went to the nearby "archives room." As the two passed one another, Professor Han suddenly spoke.
"I never thought I'd see you here, Little Sister Xiang."
"I never thought I'd see you either, Researcher Han. Everyone thought something had happened to you. It's wonderful that you're alive."
Professor Han walked through the doorway. Old Sun, standing outside, opened his mouth, his gaze complicated. Professor Han did not even look at him and walked straight past.
"I'll give you an explanation for this