Someone joked, "Wondering if the Skyflying White Tiger could stand a chance against such a swarm?"

Imagining the White Tiger in the scenario, Zhou You remarked, "I reckon the Skyflying White Tiger would probably flee. It's not necessarily about being overpowered, but more about the swarm being too troublesome. When there are too many, it's nothing short of a disaster."

Lin Shuqing, holding his research report, entered and announced, "I've come across a new discovery. I wonder if it'll be of any use to you."

Zhou You hadn't seen him for a while and noticed the grey strands at Lin Shuqing's temples and the dark circles under his eyes. Clearly, he had been engrossed in his research.

"I found that this insect has an extraordinary cellular regeneration ability, more potent than any organism I've studied before. This means they mature in a very short time. Unless their eggs are eradicated, it'll be tough for humans to eradicate them entirely."

"That doesn't sound like good news."

"Interestingly, their cells can merge with cells of other species. I've cultivated some samples in my petri dishes. If used rightly, humans might utilize these creatures for organ and limb regeneration."

This was groundbreaking news. Medical science had advanced, but some challenges still persisted.

"Setting aside its potential benefits, these bugs are terrifying. Just one can take a human life. If they multiply, can you assure their containment for human benefit?"

It was a pragmatic concern, rendering the room silent. Adjusting his glasses, Lin Shuqing turned to Shao Qi, "Marshal Shao, your thoughts?"

Most civilians in the base had a low injury risk. However, military personnel and martial artists often faced dire situations.

Many had either lost their lives or became disabled due to delayed treatments in the wild.

Shao Qi reached for the report, "I'll take this back for a thorough read. Tomorrow, I'll send a medical team to assist your research. Your lab will also receive a special research grant. I hope to see results by the end of the year."

Lin Shuqing glanced at Dean He, who showed no sign of displeasure, and nodded in agreement. "I'll do my best. I believe there are few in the world who surpass me in cellular regeneration research."

This topic might be his life's ultimate pursuit. Completing it before his demise would give his life a sense of fulfillment.

"We've named this insect the 'Azure Beetle'. Our next step was to extract its luminescent organ. We unanimously believe that this glowing part is crucial to their biology." He Qian looked at Shao Qi, asking, "The experiments can't be halted, but we need martial practitioners to safeguard our researchers."

This was a recurring scenario. Given the relationship between the research institute and the military corps, the military had often sent help in the past.

"To counter these beetles, we'll need individuals with strong mental capacities. I'll discuss this with the Martial Arts Association and get back to you within three days."

Dean He sighed in relief, "That's reassuring. We all believe that if we can determine how they harness mental energy, it might revolutionize the martial arts world."

Zhou You, however, disagreed, "Any power not innate to oneself comes with drawbacks. Martial artists should rely on earnest training."

Given his youth, many found it hard to agree with him. Talent is more significant than hard work in the world of martial arts, otherwise, why can't everyone pursue the martial path?

Upon returning, Zhou You couldn't shake off his unease, asking Shao Qi, "You think the institute won't act recklessly, right?"

"What do you mean?"

"I worry they might compromise their integrity in pursuit of swift results. Although I understand humanity's urgency to gain advantages from nature, losing our essence isn't ideal."

Zhou You was being diplomatic, but Shao Qi caught his drift, "You're concerned they might experiment on martial artists?"

"It's hard to say."

No one can be certain. The nation strictly forbids underground human experimentation due to its inhumanity. Yet, recognized hospitals and labs have been conducting such projects all along.

"I'm thinking of heading south." Zhou You was intrigued by the swarm, feeling a pull towards them.

"Next week is the duel between Gu Zuo and Zhang Huaisen. Won't you wait for that?"

Zhou You gave him a look, "Why would I be interested in watching a fight? For a match of this caliber, there'll be numerous live streams. I can just watch the replay later."

Shao Qi understood his priority. Only Zhou You was familiar with these insects, "You can go, but not alone."

The next day, Zhou You set off with his essentials. Accompanying him were Zhuo Hao and his team. Each had a combat aircraft, departing directly from Dawn City.

"Long time no see!" Miao Miao greeted Zhou You enthusiastically. They hadn't been on a mission in a while, feeling a tad rusty.

Shao Qi had deliberately sent the trio because of their rapport with Zhou You. Besides accompanying Zhou You, they were responsible for maintaining the reconnaissance aircraft.

On the day of the duel between Zhang Huaisen and Gu Zuo, the arena was packed. One was the top disciple of a prominent sect and the other, a budding prodigy from a renowned family. Every martial artist anticipated this thrilling match.

Shao Qi and Han Xi stood at the top floor. The arena was bustling, tickets weren't free. Somehow, this place had become a significant revenue source for Dawn City.

It also became an official venue for martial artists to compete. Rumors even said there were organizations training fighters for underground matches, offering lucrative rewards.

With matches came bets. The arena's first floor had a dedicated betting area, with the central treasury being the largest stakeholder, capable of handling significant losses.