The Value of a Tier 2 Researcher

Xiao Bai made this seemingly impossible choice because it was his only option.
He hadn't even finished reading the entry-level science papers—how could he dare to tackle genetics?
The Culture Dish was out of the question—it was too slow and lacked energy.
Moreover, the other three options were all outdated models from 3 to 5 years ago, while the Construction Array was a rare "lost legacy."
As for the lack of chitin, that was easily solved. According to the science papers, the primary source of chitin wasn't artificial cultivation, but hunting Demonic Beasts.
Moreover, the larger and more dangerous the Demonic Beast, the more chitin it produced.
What a coincidence! Xiao Bai just happened to have a "good buddy" who fit the bill.
"With my current combat strength, I should be able to hold my own against my good buddy. Though there might be a bit of risk, I've been walking on thin ice my whole life—when has anything ever been risk-free?"
"Of course, I need to make the necessary preparations..."
As Xiao Bai spoke, he performed one final assembly. Using some electronic components and corresponding parts, he synthesized an Autonomous Main Control Module.
This was the central control device for integrating various autonomous machines.
It wasn't brand new—manufactured two years prior —but its lightweight efficiency made it perfect for single-unit deployment. The Academy of Sciences had specifically optimized it for frontline mecha commanders, allowing them to direct their autonomous mechs as easily as playing a real-time strategy game.
The only problem was that Xiao Bai was currently a commander without a command. His sole subordinate, Little Milk Cat, couldn't even shake hands...
Fortunately, this wasn't a major issue. This base wasn't short on "subordinates"—they just happened to be temporarily immobilized.
"It all depends on how helpful Professor Wang, that Tier 2 Researcher, will be..."
Just as Xiao Bai finished speaking, a message arrived from the Tavern.
"You've really given me a tough one, kid? Here you go. It took me an hour."
Along with the message came a set of attachments containing a comprehensive repair plan for the Ghoul. From damage assessment to component repair and replacement, to Main Control System rewrites and updates, and even routine maintenance procedures, everything was covered in meticulous detail. This plan could revive even a scrapped Ghoul.
The key was its simplicity in execution. All one needed was to gather enough "Spider"-type maintenance robots and compatible base stations, prepare the necessary spare parts, load the plan into the system, and then sit back and let the robots do the work.
After reading the user manual, Xiao Bai couldn't help but marvel:
"This thing is so complicated, and people actually mastered it in just an hour? Are these people all geniuses?"
Now he finally understood the true value of being a Tier 2 Researcher...
The conversation had started during their routine check-in the previous day. Professor Wang had mentioned that the testing assignments had been updated, reminding Xiao Bai to complete them and to reach out if he encountered any difficulties.
Xiao Bai casually mentioned that he was trying to repair a Recycling Robot and asked if Professor Wang had any advice.
Though somewhat puzzled about Xiao Bai's intentions, Professor Wang didn't press further and simply asked to see the robot's condition report.
Xiao Bai activated the scanner, selected a relatively intact "Ghoul" from the scrap heap nearby, recorded the scan results, and sent them over.
Professor Wang quickly reviewed the scans and replied:
"Your scanner is impressive! It clearly shows the internal structure. Is it the latest model from Black Fortress Fine Engineering?"
"I'm not sure," Xiao Bai replied vaguely. "The employer provided it."
Seeing the response, Professor Wang continued:
"Alright then. I happen to have some resources you might find useful. I'll send them over tomorrow when I have a moment."
With that, Xiao Bai saved the attachment and quickly replied:
"Thank you, Professor Wang. You've worked hard."
"It's no trouble. Actually, before joining Master Yang's tutelage, I worked on a similar pr oject at the Academy of Sciences. I was going to delegate it to a student, but I feared you needed it urgently... Come to think of it, what kind of commission is this? Why would they entrust such a task to you? Doesn't your team have a dedicated mechanic?"
"They do, but there was an unexpected complication... You know how it is here—the environment is harsh, and I can't reveal too much. The employer is watching closely."
"Alright, I won't press you. Just remember to run the tests, especially the high-speed ones. Master Yang is eager to use the results."
"Understood. I'll start right away."
After the communication ended, Professor Wang set down his tablet and gazed at the holographic display before him, muttering to himself:
"This kid... he's working with Black Fortress, isn't he? Otherwise, they wouldn't let him use the latest scanner..."
"But hanging around these borderline operators can't be good for him. He's a decent lad—polite and eager to learn. Maybe I should find a chance to warn him?"
"Speaking of which, how do these borderline merchants always get such luck? They've uncovered another Paradise Ruins site. Should I consider buying some of their stock?"
Although Professor Wang didn't press for more details, he pieced together the general situation of "Raven" from various clues.
The employer demanded absolute secrecy, the environment was harsh, they needed to repair a Recycling Robot and a highly guarded advanced Scanner. All of this strongly suggested they were secretly excavating Paradise Ruins.
Otherwise, where did the prototype for "Terror Turtle" come from? And why repair a Recycling Robot?
The term "Recycling Robot" was just a general name. The actual dev ice was called a "Heavy-Duty Multi-Functional Autonomous Engineering Platform." By swapping out different configurations, it could switch between functions like "recycling," "excavation," and "demolition." It was frequently used to excavate Paradise Ruins.
According to Federation law, the profits and distribution rights from "Paradise" belonged to the explorers, who were protected by various rights and had the right to confidentiality. This was to encourage private capital participation.
At the same time, the appearance, distribution, and disappearance of "Paradise" were completely unpredictable and random. Abyss Gates could appear at any time in uninhabited deserts, deep forests, or residential communities.
No one knew how many "entrances" there were, nor how many Treasure Troves were buried within. Therefore, as long as the other party refused to reveal it, no one could find the location of that "Paradise."
Only when high-risk Abysses appear do they manifest clear signs, allowing them to be rapidly located by various instruments. This enables humanity to respond promptly; otherwise, human civilization would have perished long ago.
But no one knows when The End , recorded by the lost civilization, will descend, or when the arrogant Apocalypse will arrive...
This uncertainty has perpetuated various pessimistic ideologies in society, giving rise to nefarious forces like the "Children of the Abyss."
"Ah~ The future of human civilization is as hopeless as my stocks..." Professor Wang muttered, staring at the sea of red losses on his smartphone. Annoyed, he tossed it aside and turned his attention back to the glowing screen before him.
Then, as he studied the data, his eyes suddenly widened in shock.
"Are these figures trying to give Master Yang a heart attack?"

Chapter end