Chapter 4

To be honest, you have put me in a difficult position," Professor Ma said half-jokingly

"Once humanity's basic survival needs are met, desires will expand. We are not selling what they need, but rather what they want yet find difficult to obtain," said Weimar

Let us toast to antibiotics and to those who created them. " Weimar said enthusiastically, raising his glass. The others stood up, holding their glasses. At that moment, the door to the lounge opened, and Captain Dickley walked in, glanced around, and smiled as he said, "Did I miss something?"

Speaking of diseases, I immediately changed the subject. Indeed, I have a deep understanding that the disease rate in the five ecological zones on Mars is 7 percent higher than that of the International Space Station and 15 percent higher than that of Earth. Some diseases that we previously thought we had overcome are once again posing a threat to Mars.

This is Captain Lei Feng, the mechanic of the Star Patrol Squadron. This is Miss Kelly, the second officer," introduced Decre.

Indeed, Professor Ma nodded, "There is no need to think about it anymore; we still have a long four days and four nights ahead. I hope to finish my speech during this time."

I do not want everyone to think of me as a useless old man said Professor Ma quietly to me on the way back to the room

After a while, De Keli raised his head and closed the display manager

My work consists solely of writing another program to crack it, attack it, and destroy it

Standing at the door, Ford suddenly said to Professor Ma: "Earlier, you mentioned the matter of sin and punishment. Do you believe that every sin committed will inevitably be punished, even if it is a punishment for future generations?"

Even before the Great Flood, humanity did not properly cherish the environment. Professor Ma stated, "We are the most direct victims of those irresponsible individuals; the descendants of humanity are being punished for the sins of their ancestors, just as it is said in the Old Testament"

I believe that Professor Ma seems to carry a sense of guilt, an inner self-reproach; unfortunately, we are powerless regarding the history before the Great Flood.

"Those ecosystems are too small," Professor Ma remarked with emotion. "Whether it is the space station or the ecosystem on Mars, they cannot be compared to the vast ecosystem of Earth. On Earth, the oceans are our source of water, the land provides our nutrients, the blue sky offers our space, and the wind is our breath. We coexist and interact with countless billions of different organisms, both large and small. Even the flap of a tiny butterfly's wings can stir up a storm across the entire world; this is the place where humanity can survive. And now, we all live in enclosed glass spheres, where our water is recycled, our air is recycled, and even the food we eat is artificially cultivated. Compared to humans before the Flood, we are gradually weakening, while various diseases are spreading rampantly among the densely populated communities."

In my eyes, Locke's disease is merely a program composed of a string of genetic codes, Ford said

Hearing you say that truly terrifies me I said with concern Isn't the environment we live in now even worse than before the Flood

"So why do we always prefer food from Earth?" Professor Ma asked with a smile, "It is worth noting that the most traded products between Mars and Earth are agricultural products, even though Mars' ecosystem can produce its own."

Rerwan sneered and said, "Drinking will make him work more enthusiastically; after all, this isn't the first time he's been drunk."

"Can this really work?" I asked with concern

I am still very surprised. I couldn't help but say, "This sounds like a tale from the Arabian Nights."

"I see no difference," Ford said. "The growth of organisms follows a prearranged genetic program. Take a tomato from the space station and one picked from the Earth, place them together in my laboratory, and under the electron microscope, they show no differences."

In front of the elevator, I saw Captain Decker and suddenly remembered something I had yet to complete. I hurriedly asked, "Captain Decker, if you don't mind, could you show me the cockpit?"

It was indeed a sumptuous dinner. More importantly, it seemed to be free, as no one presented the bill to me; in any case, it was a pleasant and relaxing evening. After dinner, at Weimar's invitation, we moved to the lounge on the second floor. The lounge was not very large, yet it was decorated with a charming ambiance. Several bright watercolor paintings adorned the walls, and small sofas were scattered around. The tables were piled with half-read books, and an entire wall was made of transparent floor-to-ceiling glass. This retro atmosphere, combined with the vast backdrop of the universe outside, left a rather profound impression. Everyone sat casually on the sofas, and a waiter brought out the after-dinner drinks.

Professor Ma shook his head, "It is very normal; we treat the living beings in nature as we do machines. Originally, cows grazed on grass, but now they are fed artificial feed, and the various formulas for this feed are calculated by computers. The results are predictable."

I said: "Locke disease seems to be a mutated ailment. I read in the newspaper that ten years ago, at the Earth Space Station, there was an incident where personnel contracted a cold virus that triggered Locke disease, but it was completely controlled at that time with the use of antibiotics. I never expected it to appear now in the Martian ecosystem, altering its transmission routes and infectious intensity, becoming a new source of panic on the Red Planet."

Subsequently, we had a brief conversation about this spacecraft at https://www.hetushu.com, and due to my professional expertise and interests, we found ourselves in very agreeable discussions. Finally, De Keli opened the cockpit door and walked in with me

Strictly speaking, that is not true life; it is merely an active protein, or more simply put, an organic macromolecule. However, it indeed took considerable effort to correctly assemble this macromolecule. At this point, Ford appeared somewhat pleased with himself. I noticed that Gerwan shot a fierce glare at Ford, but no one else seemed to notice.

"So it can be said that Ford is a genius," Weimar said. "Although he speaks lightly, the truth is that he is the only one capable of creating pure life from nothing. Sometimes I even doubt that he is God," Weimar laughed heartily, "At least the life he created would think so."

"I was just joking," said Decker with a shrug. "Everyone who visits the cockpit gets this kind of joke."

"One day, I believe you will create a true form of life in the laboratory, and perhaps the course of human history will change." To my surprise, Professor Ma displayed a rare enthusiasm as he spoke

The cockpit of the research vessel is very spacious, divided into two levels, somewhat resembling a double-decker cinema. The upper level is the captain's position, which overlooks all the activities of the crew below. The lower level has three instrument panels: left, center, and right, each equipped with two seats. At this moment, only three duty personnel are present there.

A steaming cup of green tea was brought in, instantly filling the small lounge with a refreshing fragrance

Don't you think that Ford is somewhat eccentric, especially with what he just said? It truly leaves me perplexed

"Aren't we living quite well?" said Gerwan. "This is thanks to our technology, which allows us to leave Earth and survive, and even to establish closed ecosystems on Mars that are self-sufficient and self-sustaining"

Hello. Miss Kelly nodded at me and then turned to Captain Decker, saying: "We just passed the third navigation station; switch the communication frequency to code three; the military requires us to maintain continuous communication; a military spacecraft just passed through our route; we have been instructed to reduce speed and increase the distance; we may arrive an hour later than expected"

This is genuine green tea produced on Earth," Weima said with a smile, "definitely not that bland and tasteless stuff grown in a space environment

"You have had too much to drink," Miss Chris stepped forward, supporting Ford, and said with a frown, "Take him back to his room." Immediately, two attendants assisted Ford as they left the lounge. In the corridor and library, Ford's discontented murmurs could still be faintly heard.

At this time, he would not go to sleep. Gerwan said, looking at Ford's back, "He will definitely work in the laboratory all night, and nothing will change that."

"Go ahead, I can find my way home," Professor Ma said with a smile.

"Wherever it is, I should also take a break," Professor Ma said nonchalantly

The more primitive the life form, the better it can adapt to its environment, and the faster it mutates. I recall that in April 1984, a type of bovine spongiform encephalopathy was first discovered, a prion disease that had spread to cattle, whereas this disease had previously only infected sheep. In addition to the characteristic pathological changes typical of the prion disease family, observations using negative staining electron microscopy revealed a significant presence of abnormal fibers in the bovine brain tissue extract. The virus mutated, began to cross species barriers, and ultimately posed a threat to humans, causing nearly a century of panic

"This is the law that nature tells us," Professor Ma said

"It is to satisfy human psychological needs," Weimar said, "expensive agricultural products from Earth will create a desire to consume"

Yes, through the analysis of the genes of the pathogen causing Lock disease, we have developed a new antiviral protein that releases hormones capable of killing the Lock disease virus during its metabolic process. This can undoubtedly be regarded as a miracle in biology, as this protein was constructed segment by segment using genetic code. " Here, Gerwan interjected. I noticed that he used the term "we," clearly dissatisfied with my attribution of this achievement solely to Ford. This can undoubtedly be regarded as a miracle in biology, as this protein was constructed segment by segment using genetic code. " Here, Gerwan interjected. I noticed that he used the term "we," clearly dissatisfied with my attribution of this achievement solely to Ford.

"It's really quite good." Professor Ma lifted his teacup and took a sip. "I don't know why, but food cultivated in artificial environments always seems less palatable than that grown in the natural environment of the Earth. Have you studied what the reason for this might be?" Professor Ma's eyes were fixed on Ford.

We accompanied Miss Kelly to the bridge, where there was a circle of floodlight indicators, a comfortable and spacious seat, and a half-drunk cup of coffee sitting on the coffee table, still steaming. Clearly, the position of the captain is quite comfortable, and of course, the salary is not insignificant.

"I am sorry, but I cannot drink alcohol," Professor Ma said. "If possible, a cup of tea will suffice"

I agree with this point. Lawyer O'Reilly suddenly spoke up, leaning slightly forward from his seat right next to Weimar. "Mr. Weimar, do you still remember the sunscreen for Mars that our company produced? The economist set the price at 20 Martian dollars, but the sales were not satisfactory"

However, writing a program is one thing, but creating life is another. What I mean is... how would you make it come to life

This panic will come to an end when we reach Mars www.hetushu.com.com. " Weima smiled slightly and said, "Ford's laboratory has developed a new antibiotic, and the experimental results show it is quite effective against Lock disease. As soon as it passes clinical trials, we will be able to completely control the spread of Lock disease on Mars.

"Professor Ma, what kind of psychology do you think this is?" Miss Chris suddenly asked

"He may be under too much pressure," Captain Decker said. "Those who know him understand that he is actually a good person. Since he began researching Lock's disease, he has been somewhat unusual, but it should be fine in the future"

"I didn't expect you to be a globalist after all," said Ouri in a nonchalant manner

During this period, Miss Chris remained silent; this topic clearly did not interest her much. Out of mere politeness, she sat coldly to the side, quietly listening to our grand discussions.

I have spoken of sin, but I have not spoken of punishment, Professor Ma corrected with a smile

No, no. I quickly waved my hand and said, "In fact, I do not have a pilot's license"

The environment has changed, and in order to adapt, species have also mutated; you should be more aware of this than I am. Professor Ma turned to Ford, seeking his opinion. Ford slowly nodded.

"We can change the laws of life, and we can also change the laws of nature," Ford said. "If Locke's disease is a punishment for humanity, then I hope I am the punishment for Locke's disease." I noticed that he seemed somewhat agitated and his thoughts were disordered when he said this. "I am destined to be this executor," he murmured, "I swear to make Locke's disease completely disappear"

There are still two hours left; the third pilot will come to take over soon. Please brief him on the communication frequency matters. We are flying on a military channel, so we need to be particularly careful.

Everyone exchanged good nights and left the lounge. Captain Keli politely offered to escort us back to our rooms, but Professor Ma declined graciously

Miss Kelly couldn't help but reveal a faint smile

"I hope that whoever commits a crime should receive timely punishment," Ford seemed to be a bit agitated after drinking, "It is a sign of cowardice to let their next generation bear the consequences."

However, Professor Ma took another sip, pondered for a moment, and said, "Although they are the same species, one grows in the soil of the Earth, absorbing the nutrients of nature, while the other is cultivated in a soil-less environment in space, the flavors they emit are indeed different. This is closely related to the environment; we living beings all originate from the Earth, and only the Earth can provide us with true nourishment. Just like the legendary giant Titan, when we leave the land, we lose our strength"

Dikeli reached out and pressed several switches, and the dim display manager gradually lit up. As Dikeli's fingers moved, lines of information flowed across the screen. Kelly stood behind Dikeli, her hands clasped behind her back, standing very straight. I suspected that this woman must have served in the military, perhaps in some interstellar flight squadron. Possibly due to my continuous attention on her, Miss Kelly suddenly turned her head to glance at me, and I quickly lowered my head, pretending to observe Dikeli checking the course.

We all look forward to your doing so. Professor Ma calmly shook hands with Ford, clearly noticing that he was somewhat out of sorts; however, Ford continued to hold onto Professor Ma's hand without letting go

I sincerely apologize," said Decker as he turned to me, "If it weren't for flying on a military channel, I would let you try flying in person.

"Miss Kelly, I have brought a guest for a visit," Captain Creely said

Suddenly, a head popped out from the captain's position, took a glance, and then disappeared. After a while, a petite woman came down, looked at me, and then at the captain. She was wearing a fitted flight uniform, with a mane of flaxen hair cascading over her shoulders

"Alright, Rehwan," Weima gently interrupted him, offering an apologetic smile, "I hope I haven't embarrassed you."

On the way to the cockpit, I asked, "Captain Decker, do you not think that genius scientists like Ford exhibit some behaviors that are different from ordinary people?"

"Am I lucky?" Professor Ma murmured to himself with a bitter smile while lowering his head to sip tea

"Of course not," Captain Decree said, "I am always at your service."

"Of course I remember," Weima said, "I adjusted the price to 200 Martian dollars, and the economists thought I was crazy. What happened? Sales quadrupled." As he spoke, Weima chuckled.

Understood. "Di Ke Li" nodded and said, "Let me take a look at the navigation records"

Do you know? I have already thought of a name for this antibiotic, and it will be called "The Judge."" As he spoke, he chuckled.

I am merely a maintenance engineer in the Interstellar Patrol Squad, but the promotion by the Commander has elevated my status by two levels, causing my face to flush slightly. Miss Kelly scrutinized me, which made me feel even more embarrassed.

In a warm atmosphere, we concluded our relaxed conversation; the antique floor clock in the lounge had already struck eleven at night. Professor Ma and I stood up to take our leave, once again expressing our gratitude for the warm hospitality. Weimar, who was in a wheelchair and had limited mobility, only accompanied us to the door.

Thank you, this day will always come, people will create life, just like God, wanting to have light, and thus there was light. If this day comes, I hope I can be that fortunate person

I understand. Miss Kelly nodded

To be honest, I am in awe of such medical miracles," I said, looking at Ford. "You just mentioned that you are combating Lock's disease by creating a new form of life, correct?"

"This has nothing to do with ideology," Professor Ma said, a slight wrinkle appearing on his forehead