After so many years, and with little risk in his life,
the virus in his body had never been activated. It had remained in a state between sleeping and waking.
That was my own theory. In any case, his physical abilities had improved, though not by much.
The important part was his brain. Over the past few
months, a large number of his neural cells had been activated. Now he could practically memorize anything at a glance, draw inferences from one example, and read at lightning speed.
"Mm. He can handle both major and minor matters now. I don't think this expedition will last long, so I don't see a problem with leaving things to him. Besides, there are other people at the base."
Ning Jing spoke as she straightened her clothes.
"How are you feeling? Any better?"
"I'm all right... I won't give a speech. I'm no good at that. Just tell the troops to set out through the south gate."
"Mm, all right... I'll go, then. Come down soon. The car's waiting below."
"Ah, got it."
Ning Jing waved and turned to leave. I hurried to take a shower and freshen up, then changed into clean clothes and headed downstairs.
As soon as I stepped out of my room, I saw someone standing by the door.
"Zhang Dong? What are you doing here?"
"Your Majesty... Are you leaving?"
"Mm. I hear you've been doing a good job lately. Good. Very good. I have high hopes for you."
I patted Zhang Dong on the shoulder and turned to leave. Suddenly, a hand extended in front of me, holding something.
"What's this?"
I paused, then looked down. It seemed to be...some kind of ornament?
"Your Majesty, please take this with you. Make sure you keep it on you."
Zhang Dong