"Think beyond money. The research institute offers more than just cash. There are things money can't buy in the market. Think about the equipment you might need."

Zhou You, recalling the impressive gear Shao Qi occasionally had, lit up, "Can I get that isolator you used last time?"

"Yes, you can," Shao Qi confirmed with a nod.

Zhou You was aware of only a limited range of equipment, but during the fight with the high-level mutated beast, he recognized the need for better weapons and more advanced armor, which were not easy to come by.

"Don't worry, I'll negotiate for you," Shao Qi assured. "The bear's internals are ruined, diminishing its value. Instead of selling it by weight at a loss, better to exchange it for something useful."

Inside the central research institute's conference room, a short video recorded by Zhou You was displayed. The brief video conveyed shocking information.

"A spiritual energy explosion. This is the most powerful one I've seen. Has Marshal Shao's skills improved again?" The elder speaking was one of the institute's senior members responsible for procuring materials.

"Though this video was sent by him, I doubt he executed that move. His energy doesn't match the one in the video, plus he's known to employ sly tricks."

"It's been a long time since he last contacted us. The bear, apart from the damaged belly, is in excellent condition. It's valuable as a specimen, but we can't let him dictate the price."

"Honestly, I find the video more valuable. Attacking such thick-skinned high-level mutated beasts externally is challenging. An internal explosion seems like a brilliant idea. It could be a valuable resource online."

"Sure, it's a great tactic, but how many across the country have the profound inner power to achieve that? Concentrating spiritual energy isn't straightforward."

"Isn't our institute developing portable spiritual energy orbs? Originally meant to enhance martial artists' cultivation speed, why not divert some efforts to study these as energy grenades? They're cost-effective and potent."

"Look... Tian Peng Marshal has posted again on the 'Explorer' website. Haven't we always suspected Tian Peng Marshal is Marshal Shao?"

Everyone's attention shifted, and they rushed to see the content. It was another short video showing a man's silhouette fishing in a river.

Given the title, "Alternate Uses of Heavenly Silk Nets," everyone recognized the fishing net as the valuable Heavenly Silk Net.

"He really knows how to flaunt his wealth, using such a precious net for fishing," someone huffed.

"For survival in the wild, the best tool is one that's useful; otherwise, it's just a burden."

"The mutated fish from those mountains must taste heavenly. It's a shame our Dawn City doesn't have such forests or pristine fish."

"I've cracked it! Look at the backgrounds of both videos. Even though forests look similar, the vegetation of each mountain range varies. With such dense foliage this season, it points to the southern regions. I'm certain both videos were shot in mountains at similar latitudes." A young, exuberant researcher named Geng Qinglu said while laughing. He was the only one among the researchers who had mastered martial arts.

His main research topic was the evolutionary direction of new age organisms. To adapt to the current environment and maintain dominance, humans needed to understand the evolution of fauna and flora.

Those present were incredibly sharp-minded. Just by analyzing the videos, they could deduce the approximate location. Considering the release timing of both videos, the implications were clear.

Marshal Tianpeng was the one who filmed those two videos, hence the man catching fish with the celestial net must be the warrior who defeated the mutated brown bear.

"Send a message and ask his price. As long as it's reasonable, we'll agree. We can certainly afford this gesture," said the head of the research institute.

"Mr. Zhong, you're giving him too much respect. While our institute mainly focuses on research, we cover a third of Dawn City's expenses. When doing business, we can't be overly sentimental."

"I disagree," Geng Qinglu retorted, "In business, you have to recognize potential. Let's not talk about Mr. Shao for now. If this young man possesses such profound inner strength, his future accomplishments will be significant. It’s wise to forge a good relationship now, as we'll rely on them for hunting high-level mutated beasts in the future."

The leader nodded in agreement, "A small concession is no big deal. They risk their lives hunting mutated beasts in the wild, contributing greatly to the nation. As long as their demands aren't too excessive, we should comply."

The elder responsible for material trade immediately sent a message to Shao Qi, inquiring about the price of the brown bear.

Upon receiving the message, Shao Qi informed Zhou You, "In my opinion, you now have enough points. You can exchange them for weapons, houses, or vehicles. There's this movable house; it's small but perfect for someone frequently on the move—much more comfortable than a tent."

Zhou You felt he wasn't wealthy enough to live luxuriously. Furthermore, being always ready to flee in the wilderness, what would he do with a house? It would be a great loss if he couldn’t retrieve it.

"What kind of weapons can I choose from?"

"Hold on, I'll ask them to send over a list. I'll also get you a VIP status within the research institute so you'll get discounts in the future."

Zhou You hadn't realized the research institute's operations were so vast. He initially thought it was just a pure research entity.