Chapter 3

This is Mr. Ford, the scientific director of Weimar Enterprises," Captain Decker continued to introduce. My gaze fell upon the young man. He appeared to be around thirty, clearly the type who overexerts himself mentally, with a look of utter fatigue in his eyes, even vacant, always appearing indifferent. Although he was dressed in a well-fitted suit, his beard was unkempt, giving him a somewhat disheveled appearance. He appeared to be around thirty, clearly the type who overexerts himself mentally, with a look of utter fatigue in his eyes, even vacant, always appearing indifferent. Although he was dressed in a well-fitted suit, his beard was unkempt, giving him a somewhat disheveled appearance

"Gentlemen, while we discuss science, we should not forget the ladies," Captain Crilly said half-jokingly. "This is Miss Chris, the administrative officer of the science vessel"

When I arrived in the room, I found Professor Ma looking down at a card. Upon seeing me enter, he raised his head

Are you saying that life is designed out of nothing... not through mutation and evolution, but rather by designing life that does not exist at all

"We will be flying for four days and four nights, and I hope you can feel comfortable here." Captain Kreel politely bowed and exited the room, closing the door behind him

I soon saw the passage leading to the cockpit. I walked over and found the cockpit door tightly closed. I tried to open it, but it wouldn't budge. Feeling somewhat disappointed, I turned back. At that moment, from the other side of the passage, near the restroom, a heated argument broke out.

At this moment, I suddenly recalled the argument in the corridor, along with the sound of a slap and the woman's sobs

"You flatter me, Miss Chris," Professor Ma said, smiling and bowing in her direction. "I do not think so; there have been many cases in history that bear striking similarities. Our intellect is so inferior that even crime follows old traditions without achieving any breakthroughs"

When I opened the door to the room, Professor Ma said behind me: "Next time, please do not address me as 'you' in a formal sense; just use 'you' in an informal way. It makes me feel a bit younger."

It is a pleasure to meet you. Ford shook my hand again, without changing his words, showing not a trace of happiness.

I noticed that Miss Chris is a very young and charming lady. She is dressed in an evening gown, with her hair styled up, which makes her appear somewhat more mature than her actual age. To become the supervisor of such a large scientific research vessel at such a young age must require extraordinary abilities

"Go ahead, I am also a bit tired. For an old man, today has truly been a busy day," Professor Ma said gently

It is a pleasure to meet you," Ford said as he shook Professor Ma's hand

"Very well, Professor Ma, it is evident that there is more than one admirer of yours here," Captain Decre said. "Please allow me to finish my introduction before the dishes are served."

With a sharp sound, it was evident that someone had received a crisp slap across the face. Shortly after, hurried footsteps approached me and the direction of the picture book. I quickly retreated, and beside the cockpit was a small storage room. Instinctively, I hid inside and closed the door. The footsteps soon passed by me, and I could faintly hear a woman's sobbing, followed by the sound of the cockpit door opening and closing, and everything returned to silence

If you don't mind, I would like to go out and take a look during this time before we take off I said

Among those present was Gerwan, Ford's assistant, a man who appeared somewhat sinister and seemed to harbor some discontent regarding his position being lower than Ford's. From the order in which he was introduced by Decre, it was evident that he felt somewhat embarrassed. He exchanged some lukewarm remarks, giving off an impression of narrow-mindedness. Attorney Ouli, the legal advisor for Weimar Enterprises, was in his forties but took great care of his appearance, showing no wrinkles at the corners of his eyes. He kept casting glances, both intentional and unintentional, towards Miss Chris, as if he had some ulterior motives towards the beautiful yet icy young lady. After a few pleasantries, everyone sat down again, at which point the waiter began to serve the dishes.

Captain Clary protruded his chin, looking somewhat comical. He nodded slightly, wiped his mouth with a napkin, and stood up. "I apologize, everyone, please take your time," he said as he turned and left the dining room

As an aerospace mechanical engineer, I have a habit of wanting to visit the cockpit of every new spacecraft I board. I have toured military heavy patrol ships and massive interstellar aircraft carriers, and I have also touched the instrument panel of commercial V900 transport ships. However, I have never encountered a spacecraft of this scientific nature, and I suspect it is an improved version of the Sal-class semi-powered orbital ship, so I wish to confirm this.

The corridor bridge, resembling an umbilical cord, slowly retracted into the spaceport, and the airlock of the last hatch of the fat beetle closed. Several small tugboats hooked onto the scientific vessel, gently pulling it outward, much like a few ants transporting the carcasses of insects. During the towing process, the four massive engines at the rear of the scientific vessel began to ignite, resembling four lights being turned on one by one. The tugboats released their towing lines and wobbled back to the spaceport, leaving the scientific vessel floating in the vastness of space. Subsequently, the engines of the scientific vessel emitted a bright tail flame and began to accelerate, flying towards Mars under the envious gazes of numerous stranded passengers at the spaceport.

Captain Decker personally led us to the guest cabin. This was undoubtedly necessary, as the interior space of the research vessel is quite large and intricate, and first-time boarders can easily get lost.

As if to confirm this point, the restaurant's broadcast suddenly sounded, and a melodious female voice immediately floated through the air

The man paused for a moment and continued, "Forget everything that has happened, I implore you. When we reach Mars, there will be answers."

Mr. Weima is in his sixties, yet he has not gained weight; he simply has thinning hair, with a faintly visible bald scalp. His complexion is somewhat waxy yellow, but his spirits seem quite good. His eyes are small and he tends to squint, giving off a discreet impression. Upon seeing us, he politely inclined his body but did not stand up like the others, saying, "Hello, please forgive me, my legs have some issues." I noticed an electric wheelchair beside his seat, and I was surprised to learn that the renowned owner of Weima Biotech is actually a person with a disability.

"It's nothing," Miss Chris said lightly, "I am also a citizen of Earth, holding a universal passport"

"I have said that we must give up." This is the voice of a man speaking in a lowered tone.

Of course, Ford said, "The essence of life is deoxyribonucleic acid, and there are only four types of deoxyribonucleic acid. We are like programmers piecing them together."

This is your room. We turned into a wide corridor, with rows of tightly closed doors on both sides, giving the feeling of being in a hotel. Captain Decree took out a magnetic card and opened the door. Immediately, the sensor lights in the room gradually brightened, emitting a soft and comfortable glow

"How many people can this spaceship accommodate?" I asked curiously

In the evening, Professor Ma and I enjoyed our first dinner on the ship. Professor Ma was dressed in a black suit, wearing a black tie, and his hair was neatly combed. The white strands of hair highlighted his elegance and composure. From any perspective, Professor Ma exuded a so-called old-fashioned charm, making one feel comfortable and easygoing, yet also refined and cultured. It is likely that he had captivated many women in his youth. I did not have formal attire and could only wear the uniform of the interstellar police. Fortunately, the red badge on the shoulder of the uniform added a touch of prestige.

"It sounds quite magical," Professor Ma said

"Are your antibiotics also cultivated in a zero-gravity environment?" I asked curiously

Indeed, a cultured person, if not on a spaceship, I would think I am in that grand hotel. Do you think we should wear formal attire? Fortunately, I brought my formal outfit for the seminar, which will come in handy here

Seeing Ford's rudeness, Captain Decker smiled apologetically, yet Professor Ma's gentle smile remained unchanged, showing no signs of embarrassment

As an uninvited guest, I must express my gratitude to everyone present for their warm assistance. Professor Ma began to speak, his demeanor both generous and appropriate, truly commendable. "Especially for someone like me, a mere Earthling, to receive such treatment is incredibly moving, which clearly demonstrates the generosity of Martians"

"So many people?" I exclaimed, "A typical interstellar commercial spacecraft can accommodate at most around three hundred people."

How is it?" I asked when it was just the two of us left

After several rounds of observation, I have generally confirmed that my assumptions are correct. The entire bottom of the spaceship is a bulk cargo hold, as evidenced by the busy automated cargo conveyor. The deck features a vast living area, capable of accommodating around five hundred people, which is certainly not an exaggeration. One level above is the activity area, which is the widest part of the ship, located along the central axis of this plump beetle's belly. Next is the so-called experimental area, which I could not see due to restrictions, but I can estimate that there are about twenty to thirty standard laboratories. The forward cabin should be the management area and the cockpit, situated near the head of the beetle. The universal hatch is located on one side of the ship's bow, and we boarded from there. In summary, the layout is quite similar to what I had speculated. This ship is quite expensive, and its maintenance costs must also be astonishing; only financially robust enterprises can afford such luxurious equipment. The forward cabin should be the management area and the cockpit, situated near the head of the beetle. The universal hatch is located on one side of the ship's bow, and we boarded from there. In summary, the layout is quite similar to what I had speculated. This ship is quite expensive, and its maintenance costs must also be astonishing; only financially robust enterprises can afford such luxurious equipment.

"Where, where..." I said politely as I stepped into the room. It was quite nice, more spacious than I had imagined. The furnishings were simple but very clean, with a private washroom and even a desk placed in the corner. The floor was covered with a yellow carpet, and there was a pot of green plants by the bedside. Through the window, I could also see the view outside.

Very good. Professor Ma rubbed his hands together and placed his luggage on a bed against the wall. "There is also a gym; it seems this place is a small space station."

We design life, just as engineers design airplanes on blueprints

"I sincerely apologize, but due to the large number of people on board, there is only one room available. I hope you do not mind," Captain Decre said humbly

"This is not a commercial spacecraft," the captain corrected, "this is a scientific research vessel. Weimar Biotech has three such spacecraft, which, in addition to personnel, are equipped with well-appointed laboratories and microbiological analysis rooms, as well as all necessary experimental equipment. In fact, they can be regarded as mobile biological research stations in space"

Isn't this a bit too complicated? I exclaimed

There is a very formal restaurant on the spaceship, not large in scale, clearly accessible only to the upper echelons. A waiter in a white uniform stood outside the door, graciously opening it for us. As the door swung open, we could see a round dining table inside, already occupied by several people. Captain Decree, dressed in a splendid Martian captain's uniform, immediately stood up and came over to greet us upon seeing us.

Twenty minutes later, the scientific vessel of Weima Biotechnology Company departed from the port

Captain Keli shrugged and said, "Of course. The decree issued in 2210 has relaxed the assessment for women's flight licenses and requires that no company may refuse to hire female pilots based on gender issues. My crew certainly includes women, and they are outstanding, with one serving as the executive captain of the second crew"

Of course, Ford said, without a hint of surprise, as if this were the most ordinary thing for him.

No, what I mean is, Professor Ma pondered for a moment and said, "The most difficult aspect of human behavior is deception; any lie that does not align with the truth is traceable."

Speaking of history, Chris seemed quite interested in continuing the topic, "Do you think there are cases that cannot be solved?"

Is it her? I asked quietly

There is an elevator to the second floor from here, where the restaurant and entertainment room are located. Everyone usually enjoys gathering there for tea. The third floor is the activity area, which includes a gym and a small basketball court. The fourth floor is a sterile laboratory, but it is best not to go there, as typically one cannot enter without a Level 3 ID card. By the way, if you need anything, you can call the front desk directly; we have a staff member on duty there twenty-four hours a day. Saying this, Captain De Klee handed the access card to me and Professor Ma.

In recent years, Mars has implemented a very strict immigration policy to prevent a large influx of Earth inhabitants, which could lead to a crisis in the artificial ecosystem. This has caused some friction between the Martian government and the Earth Federation government. For Earth inhabitants, a sense of planetary nationalism is gradually developing, accompanied by dissatisfaction towards Martians, while most Martians tend to harbor discrimination against Earth inhabitants. It is noteworthy that in such an environment, it is truly remarkable for an Earth inhabitant to hold a significant position in a major Martian corporation. A well-known enterprise like Weima would undoubtedly face certain political pressures. Even when working on Mars, no one would openly state in such a casual tone that they are from Earth, much like one would not openly declare being a country bumpkin at a high-society ball.

I could not speak, only nod silently

I would like to introduce you. Captain Decker led us over and said: "This is Mr. Weima, the Chairman and General Manager of Weima Biological Enterprises, my boss"

"Give up? Why didn't you say to give up at the beginning? Why are you only saying it now? No, I will never give up, nor will I let you give up!" This is the voice of a woman, sounding somewhat agitated

I didn't quite understand. I mustered my courage to speak, even though I looked like a fool. And the books.

"The success of this antibiotic development is entirely due to Mr. Ford," Dr. Kree added, aiming to enliven the atmosphere. "He is now our hero, a true hero, and his battlefield lies in the invisible microscopic realm. The entire Mars is waiting for our hero's triumphant return"

Professor Ma, I have read about your achievements, and I believe the cases you have handled are among the most outstanding in modern times

Captain Dickery, please come to the bridge

I almost embarrassed myself, I thought to myself. After a while, feeling that there was no more movement, I quietly came out. The man in the corridor had also left, and I breathed a sigh of relief before hurriedly returning to my room

I have heard of such space stations, Professor Ma interjected. Conducting biological experiments in space is quite a clever move. Before the Flood period, humans began breeding experiments in microgravity or zero-gravity environments. The minimal radiation and the weightless conditions accelerate the rate of biological mutations, thereby allowing for better selection and cultivation.

"If you give up, I will kill you." The tone of that woman sent a chill down my spine

"What?" I exclaimed in surprise, immediately realizing that I had been rude. I cleared my throat to cover my slightly flushed face. Fortunately, Miss Chris did not mind; she was simply watching the waiter pour red wine into the glass.

Are you suggesting that once it is in your hands, there will definitely be a way to solve it

"Nice to meet you," Miss Chris said to me in a lukewarm manner, before turning to Professor Ma

"There are only confused investigators, but no cases that cannot be solved," Professor Ma said politely

With this confusion, and a slight admiration for Miss Cleese's courage, I closed my mouth and silently enjoyed the food. Next to me was Captain Decker. In order to find a topic, I struck up a conversation with him about some issues regarding the research vessel, which turned out to be quite congenial. As we continued talking, I suddenly thought of a question and asked, "Captain Decker, do you have any female members in your crew?"

No, Ford glanced at me, "We no longer use that primitive method; now we invent biology"

The design accommodates five hundred and seven passengers, with a crew of six, fourteen maintenance personnel, and thirty-two flight attendants. Additionally, there are technical staff from Weimar Enterprises.

I smiled, turned to look at him, and said, "Alright, Professor Ma."

"No, absolutely not," the man said decisively

"Is this an invitation?" I asked with a smile

Captain Crilly is truly too gracious," he said, handing me the card, "he has invited us to join him for dinner