Arknights, I'm going to beat Kal'tsit, really?

Page 31

Seeing her like this, Christensen could easily guess that this was a "newborn," and her "relative"... was probably Kane in front of her.

"So, you learned everything from the preserver?"

"Yes."

Kane took a sip of his energy drink. The physical modifications had taken a huge toll, and despite being kept alive by the sarcophagus, his hunger had not subsided.

"Don't you have anything to say!?"

Seeing him leisurely sipping his energy drink, Christensen felt slighted—did he really not care at all?!

"What are you talking about? Replicating Ama's technology? Impossible. Studying me? Once the Structural Science Department develops, it wouldn't hurt to let Saria try. As for the Columbia government? I've already reached a cooperation agreement with them—but soon, they'll probably seek a deeper alliance."

“That’s not what I want to hear! Kane—you’ve been deceiving us all along. Yes, I know it’s necessary for your self-preservation, and it’s all too unbelievable, I still find it too fantastical. But I want to know: did you deliberately become friends with us? Just for today? Just for your plan?”

Kristen's usual bright smile and inquisitive expression vanished, replaced by an almost pleading vulnerability. Seeing this, Kane recalled many things: Yara's earlier "warning," their ambiguous moment in the private cinema, and the "plan" he had devised upon learning Kristen's identity. But ultimately, he remembered the moments they shared—Kristen, fearful and wary like a wounded cub, yet unwilling to be alone.

Kane admitted that he initially became friends with her with the intention of using her and seeking personal gain; but now... their relationship has long since transcended friendship.

"Sigh, it seems that I should be in charge of Rhine Labs."

"!?"

Hearing this, Christen almost burst into tears—she thought Kane was saying that he had foreseen the breakup and should have taken the initiative from the beginning.

“Our commander is such an idiot. Christensen, don’t you even remember how many things you shouldn’t have said? If I really wanted to use you, I would have already devoured the Wright family! What use would I have for the wealth of Texas?”

Kane couldn't help himself and reached out to vigorously rub Christensen's face, as if venting his helplessness.

I will never let your scheme succeed!

"Based on your tearful appearance?"

Christen retaliated forcefully, trying to pull Kane's face, but he easily subdued her with his masculine strength—Kane's attitude was self-evident during their playful fight.

Chapter 80 Rhine Life's Newcomers

“mon3tr, considering that we may spend eternity together in the future, I think it's necessary to agree on some things beforehand. For example—you won't secretly pass any messages to Kal'tsit when I'm not looking, right?”

"..."

Kane's warning hit the nail on the head. mon3tr had indeed had such a thought; now that she possessed a body capable of free movement and could even integrate into society and seek help as a human, there were only two ways to stop her from transmitting messages: either completely imprison her, or make her abandon the idea herself.

The first method is basically ineffective. Kane could certainly distract himself to control her, but that would be too much of a strain. mon3tr's current seemingly fragile appearance is just an illusion; she can still dent a steel plate with a single punch, and she might very well be able to unleash an energy breath.

“You should think about it. My techniques have absolute dominance over Kal'tsit. Even if you reveal my information to her, do you dare to gamble? Gamble that I can’t kill her? You know, she doesn’t have your protection right now. Once she loses too much blood, suffers brain damage, or her heart stops beating… she will die completely.”

"No...don't do that. I beg you, spare Kal'tsit."

mon3tr was so anxious he almost cried, as if Kane was about to rush to Rhodes Island to kill Kal'tsit.

Clearly, mon3tr, now in her human form, is still quite inexperienced. In the past, she could only express emotions through body language and changes in tone of voice, but now, although she has facial expressions, she cannot control them, and her inner thoughts are almost entirely written on her face.

“I can spare her life, but only if she doesn’t actively become my enemy. As for the future… you might even be able to see her again as a business rival.”

“I understand…I will follow your arrangements. But you must promise me that you will not take Kal'tsit’s life. Otherwise—I will never cooperate with you in anything again.”

Kane holds control of mon3tr; she cannot self-destruct or rebel against him, but there is a world of difference between "voluntary cooperation" and "forced obedience." Kane also does not want his symbiote to be forever hostile, so he accepts the proposal—provided that Kal'tsit does not provoke him. If she insists on suicide, Kane does not mind committing patricide.

“It’s alright… When we face Kal’tsit in the future—I will take responsibility for stopping her.”

mon3tr has made up her mind. If a future confrontation with Kal'tsit is inevitable, then she will be the one to strike—at least she can control the extent of the damage. As long as Kal'tsit is alive, there is always a chance to turn things around.

"I'm looking forward to your performance. But for now, you should first master this body and learn the necessary knowledge. In the future, you will also be a member of Rhine Lab."

"I see."

As the three emerged from the underground ruins, Muirsey, who had been waiting for them, quickly approached. Rhine Lab was still in its early stages, and while the founders weren't working around the clock, a 996 work schedule was certainly the norm. Kane and Christensen's occasional "disappearances" naturally didn't escape the notice of Saria and Muirsey.

Kane originally did not intend to let Muirsey and the others get involved in matters related to the previous civilization—it involved too much and might not be a good thing.

But Christensen objected. She argued that one lie requires more lies to cover it up, and that Seria and Muirsey, as founders of Rhine Lab, had the right to know this.

Thus, Muirsey and Saria learned that beneath the Rhine Lab site lay the ruins of a pre-civilization, like the last embers after a grand bonfire had been extinguished; and that Christen was seeking knowledge and answers from a wise man of that pre-civilization.

Surprisingly, the two reacted with unusual calm. Unlike the lucky girl in the fairy tale who was bewitched by the genie, they only entrusted Christensen with two questions:

Does the elven race still exist?

Can OriginSickness be cured?

Kristen received the answer from the Preservator—the "Elves" were not recorded by the previous civilization, but they were certainly not a native race of Terra. Therefore, it can be concluded that the Elf race, like Kane, is a unique "experimental creation" distinct from the "Tikkaz" and the "Tarvassals."

At least, Muirsey was able to glimpse a corner of her race's secrets, which was enough to satisfy her.

Regarding Oripathy… the original plan for Originium wasn't like this; it was Precyth's alterations that made it what it is today. Therefore, even the Preservator cannot definitively say what the current nature of Originium is. But he is certain that Oripathy can be cured—at least with Terra's current technology, it's sufficient to "stop" it.

"Wait...why is there another person? What's this?"

Muirsey's mind went blank for a moment. Two people went in, and how did they bring back a girl? Was she from "pre-civilization"?

"I remember you."

mon3tr looked at Muirsey and recognized her as the woman who had visited Kane's room several times.

"She knows me!?"

Muirsey immediately hid behind Kane, only daring to peek at mon3tr by showing half her face, afraid that the other party might suddenly do something unusual.

"Calm down, Muirses. Take a closer look, doesn't she seem familiar?"

Do you remember when Muirsey first visited Kane's house? She heard mon3tr's voice then—and even planned to investigate whether dark green Originium really existed.

But the subsequent gang attack made her put the matter out of her mind for the time being.

When she went to Kane's house for the second time, she remembered again—after an urgent inquiry, she learned that the Originium Mining in Terra had indeed unearthed dark green Originium, but when she went to the Originium Industry Exhibition Hall to verify, she found that those ores could not speak and their texture was completely different from Kane's.

So she told Kane about her discovery:

Although it sounds magical, it's true—the stone has its own consciousness, and it can even speak Colombian!

"Ah—!? You...you are that crystal!?"

After a moment of perception, Muirsey's memories became instantly clear. She gaped in disbelief as her mind raced through the ecological knowledge she had learned: species evolution, carbon-based and silicon-based life, the impact of the environment on organisms... She had to admit that she was beginning to take an interest in the technology of the pre-civilization—that it could allow people to freely transform between biological and crystalline structures.

"Her case is extremely special; even in previous civilizations, there was only one such case—a unique and one-of-a-kind individual. Moreover, this is the first time she has moved in human form. I suggest that we place her in the ecological park for rehabilitation training while also conducting some observations. What do you think?"

"I couldn't be happier! So... what's her name?"

"My name is mon3tr!"

Muirsey and Kane left mon3tr aside and discussed what to do with her—she unconsciously regarded mon3tr as some kind of "creation" rather than an existence with its own self.

But mon3tr didn't like this feeling, so it took the initiative to speak out and declare that it was an individual capable of independent thinking.

“Oh…sorry, mon3tr—this is our second meeting. I’m Muirsay, nice to meet you.”

Muirsey immediately realized his mistake and quickly changed his mindset, beginning to regard mon3tr as an equal dialogue partner.

"Ok!"

Although Kane was a bit of a jerk, mon3tr didn't hold a grudge against those around him. She felt that the people around Kane were similar to Kal'tsit, always frowning and pondering complex matters. Among them, her favorite was probably Muirsey—because she gave off a very comfortable feeling, like a gentle drizzle soothing the mind and body.

Chapter 81 Rhine Life Science Department

"It is an honor to stand here today, and I would like to thank everyone for attending RheinLife's first press conference."

As a large-scale technology company, Rhine Life Sciences would struggle to cover all its expenses even if Kane invested all of the Texas family's profits. Therefore, Rhine Life Sciences must independently develop products and take on business—once its specialized production lines are fully operational, its earning efficiency will rival that of a money-printing machine. In the future, profits from Texas's luxury goods industry will likely only account for a portion of Rhine Life Sciences' revenue.

As for the product offerings, they are incredibly diverse and numerous.

First, there are the breakthroughs achieved by the four founders in their respective fields, thanks to their professional knowledge and ingenious creativity:

Saria and Kane collaborated to design a subcutaneous micro-spellcasting unit that, through appropriate medical surgery, allows ordinary people to gain the ability to "cast spells without a staff." The system is highly advanced, and Saria herself was the first test subject—she can now cast calcification spells without a staff.

Muirsey's products are the most direct: special hybrid varieties that can increase crop yields, enhance disease resistance, and even alter product properties. This is why she has become a leading authority in Colombian ecology. Other companies need to repeatedly experiment, observe, record, and compare, conducting hundreds of experiments without necessarily achieving results, while Muirsey can directly "ask" whether a plant possesses a certain potential and how to develop it.

Kristen already had excellent products prepared—a variety of newly designed energy output and control units, which she then urgently upgraded after receiving guidance from the Preservator. If used in weaponry, this device would have a revolutionary impact on high-energy weapon design; if used in civilian technology, Columbia's product companies would likely be vying to cooperate with RheinLife.

Christensen was initially reluctant to personally host the press conference—the Wright family's stain had not yet been cleared, and she believed that she had already given Rhine Life a negative impression, which should not be deepened further.

But Kane encouraged him, "That's why it's even more appropriate for you to do it—Rhine Life may be unknown now, but you and I both know that it will become Columbia's greatest company in the future. Its glory will be enough to wash away all your humiliation. Go, Christensen, don't let outsiders laugh at you."

She naturally didn't want to betray that trust.

"Wow... Although she's usually seen in public, with a little dressing up, Christensen's looks even surpass those of professional models."

Below the stage, the heads of various departments of RheinLife were gathered. Such an important first press conference could not afford any mishaps. The speaker was Ms. Muirsay, head of the Ecology Department, who, also dressed formally, appeared intellectual and capable.

"That is indeed a plus, but the most crucial factor is still the product we prepared."

Seria, the head of the structural engineering department, probably didn't know that she herself was equally beautiful—during her time at Tremont University, many people, both men and women, were attracted to her, but unfortunately, they were all intimidated by her aura as soon as they got close. This led to a mixture of envy and respect for Kane, who always stood by her side.

"Don't worry, she can handle this kind of situation. Giving speeches at cocktail parties is much more of a headache for her than press conferences, isn't it?"

Yara, still sporting sunglasses and a stylish outfit, was also among the department heads. As the head of the Human Resources Assessment Department, she had almost single-handedly built Rhine Life's team—all the other department heads were recruited through her connections and channels.

"Indeed, as Ms. Yara said, perhaps we should look forward to tonight's victory celebration."

"Dorothy, the head of the Originium Arts Application Department, said. Yara had provided Kane with a lot of information on Originium Arts experts in Columbia, and Kane immediately took a liking to Miss Zalak—even though at the time she was just a "newcomer" who had only recently set up her personal laboratory with government funding. But Yara didn't ask any questions; since Kane had specifically invited her, she went to carry it out—this tacit understanding had developed between the two.

The results impressed Yara. Other experts still had some reservations about the surname "Wright," but Dorothy valued Christensen's abilities—and a company founded by several idealistic geniuses was the perfect breeding ground for pursuing dreams.

Nastya Runorie, the head of the engineering department, was taciturn. As a banshee of the Sarkaz race, she was accustomed to silence—not only because banshees' words were related to their magic, but also because it was her nature. It was believed that she would get along well with Saria in the future.

"Trust and support Christensen. Right now, we need a victory to help Rhine Lab."

Mariam Marie, the head of the scientific expedition department, was a Kuranta. A senior university professor and honorary president of the Colombian Exploration Association, she calmly observed Christensen on the stage, who was overseeing the entire operation. She knew this girl shared her adventurous spirit—except her goal was the Infi Icefield to the north, while Christensen's direction was the sky above everyone else. She eagerly awaited what Christensen would ultimately witness.

"I can't wait to engage with these people in the audience—ladies and gentlemen, believe in yourselves. What we've prepared is groundbreaking innovation; and what the Colombian market craves most is innovation."

Business Director Justin Fitzroy was itching to get started. While everyone else was finishing their work, his was just beginning. He was convinced that today's product launch would have related industries scrambling to partner with RheinLife, and as a "cunning" Woolper, he wouldn't let them get away with it.

"If you need help, I can assist you. I'm quite good at this."

Ferdinand Clooney, the head of the energy department, offered to share the workload, but Justin declined. Wouldn't it be a disservice to Yara's invitation to hand over their first major order to someone else?

This business prodigy was once an angel investor for many scientists in Colombia. Yara's method of inviting him was simple: a risk-hedging contract—if Rhine Life failed, Yara would return to sign Justin, helping him make a comeback in Blue Cardwood; if successful, Justin would become a senior executive at the large company. This deal, which seemed like a win-win situation, also indirectly proved his exceptional abilities.

As for Ferdinand, he is perhaps the most "awkward" of Rhine Labs' current situation—Kristen and Kane both belong to the field of high-energy physics, one serving as the head, while the other should have been the director of the Energy Department, but Kane declined the position and instead established the Defense Department. Ferdinand seems to have been forced into this role. He came from humble beginnings and worked his way up to his current position, and he naturally possesses a deep sense of pride. Therefore, he desperately needs an opportunity to prove himself, to show Kane and Kristen: Look, I'm no less capable than you.

The press conference and celebration ball for Chapter 82

Every entrance to the venue was tightly guarded; no one with ill intentions was to be allowed to enter. This was Rhine Life's first official appearance; only success was permitted, failure was not an option—do it well, and the future would be limitless; mess it up, and everyone would be dismissed and sent home.

"Yes, Sir!"

"Leave it to us, Director."

"I swear on my life, I will never let any suspicious person in."

"..."

The communication headset crackled with the firm, resonant responses of the security officers. Their tone clearly indicated that Kane, as the head of the security department, enjoyed immense prestige within the team—why was that?

The Security Department is currently Rhine Lab's core defensive force. Columbia's technology market has always been rife with undercurrents, not to mention the numerous controversies already plaguing Christensen. From today onward, the cutting-edge technologies and innovative achievements they showcase will undoubtedly attract numerous cooperation offers, but will also inevitably draw the attention of countless spies and agents.

At that point, it will be the security department's turn to truly play its role.

As the shield and spear of Rhine Labs, the loyalty of the Security Department is of paramount importance—once an internal leak or betrayal occurs, the investigation and cleanup will become extremely difficult.

So how does Kane ensure this team is absolutely reliable?

The answer remains the same irresistible condition: the hope of curing Oripathy.

Money? Other tech companies would be willing to pay exorbitant prices for Rhine Lab's technology. Power? With Rhine Lab's advanced technology, one could easily obtain a high-ranking official position in another country after escaping.

Therefore, Kane is still using the "Oripathy inhibitor" as his bargaining chip.

Over the years, Colombia's ambitions have never been concealed. While developing rapidly, conflicts and frictions with neighboring countries have continued one after another. Many soldiers have unfortunately been infected with Oripathy after being attacked by Originium weapons on the battlefield, and ultimately could only be sent to the infected isolation zone, which is the so-called "hero's final resting place".

Retirement pay and disability benefits? The amounts are indeed substantial, enough to support a family for several years. But those infected cannot live like ordinary people—high deposits, medical expenses… layer upon layer, can quickly devour their savings.

Once they can no longer afford the premiums, they will be forced to squeeze into the chaotic containment area along with other infected people, and be completely discarded and abandoned by the Colombian war machine.

Those who have endured so much suffering will do everything in their power to grasp at any glimmer of hope for a cure.

Kane resorted to his old tricks, visiting several retired military officers and having long talks with them—ultimately persuading them to try the "Originium Inhibitor" developed by Rhine Lab.

As the Oripathy that had tormented them day and night ceased to cause pain and spread, everyone chose to dedicate their loyalty.

Thus, a group of elite soldiers who had suffered greatly from Oripathy became the initial backbone of the Security Section. After completing the construction of the headquarters building, the Engineering Section successively developed the surrounding facilities. The newly built staff apartments were well-equipped, clean, bright, safe, and spacious. Security Section officers and their families were able to relocate here from the chaotic containment area.

The advance on their wages allowed them to afford milk and bread from the tumor-carrying animals again, and the children were able to return to school.

This is all one can ask for in life. They had lost everything, and now, Rhine Life is giving it all back to them.

Kane even felt that if he ordered the security department to do something that was extremely dangerous, they would carry it out without hesitation.