The helicopter descended steadily onto the dedicated landing pad at the Pacific Ocean base.
The wind swept across everyone's faces, forcing them to retreat. Xu Gong led the way, supporting Dr. Xu.
Orion and Mena jumped out of the large helicopter and directed the other agents to escort the scientists aboard.
Xu Gong tried to help Dr. Xu aboard, but he did not move. He merely watched everyone leave.
"Mother, aren't you leaving?"
Dr. Xu shook his head and gazed at the distant sea, his expression calm. No one knew what he was thinking.
Orion approached, removed his goggles, and narrowed his eyes. "Dr. Xu, we were sent specifically to protect you. Our mission is to ensure your safety. Is there anything we can do for you?"
Dr. Xu said casually, "No. Just let them leave. There's too much research material in this base. I'll stay here alone."
Mena came over as well. Wearing goggles and thick gloves on both hands, she glanced at Orion.
"Dr. Xu, you're one of the people who launched this movement. If we lose contact with you, the movement could find itself in a very difficult position. Besides, the Antarctic base has backups of all the material here."
Dr. Xu smiled. "I'm not the only one who started the movement. Do I really carry that much weight? I'll stay here. I've spent my whole life here."
Stubbornly standing his ground, Dr. Xu turned and left.
Xu Gong followed in silence.
"Wait." Mena stopped her. "You look familiar. Have we met somewhere?"
Xu Gong did not answer. Her hands were tucked into the side pockets of her white coat, her hair held back with a clip, her eyes behind her glasses. She only glanced back at Mena.
Orion waved a hand in front of Mena. "Stay