"Next, we'll hear from Dr. Xu Jing. She's one of our most outstanding neuroscience experts, particularly skilled in the interactions between neural signals and nanotechnology," the moderator announced.
Xu Jing rose and walked to the podium. After briefly scanning the room, she began: "Distinguished leaders and colleagues, our research currently focuses on achieving more precise and efficient integration between nanobots and the human nervous system. Through neural signal transmission, we can better control the nanobots' repair functions within the human body—a crucial element for the successful application of the Beneficial Element Complex."
She displayed a complex neural network diagram showing how nanobots conduct signals along neural synapses. "Currently, we face many technical bottlenecks in neural signal transmission stability, particularly in reducing environmental interference while ensuring rapid response to emergency repair needs."
Suddenly, a researcher from the energy group stood up: "Dr. Xu, aren't we overly reliant on nanobots' direct interaction with neural signals? The risks are extreme—strong external interference could cause severe neurological dysfunction in test subjects."
Xu Jing collected herself and responded calmly: "Your concern is valid. We're already exploring quantum entanglement principles, attempting to link each nanobot with another entangled unit. This way, even under local interference, control can be restored through entangled signal transmission. While challenging, this technique has shown promise in mouse trials."
The room fell silent—clearly, this was a radical proposal, as quantum mechanics often seemed unfathomable. An elderly scientist stood up, speaking in a hoarse voice: "Well, Xu Jing! I believe we should focus more on improving individual nanobot tolerance and stability rather than introducing additional complexity through external quantum technology."
Haiyang thought to himself: Xu Jing's theoretical direction is correct—after all, the Taoist Master has a red light device that effectively interferes with the nanobots. When exposed, they all seem to shut down remotely. Quantum entanglement might be the breakthrough needed.
After Xu Jing's presentation, scientists began discussing how to maintain nanobot functionality in extreme environments. A physicist suggested combining specific metal nanoparticles with the robots to improve their tolerance to high temperatures or radiation. This prompted objection from a chemistry expert, who worried about material incompatibility issues.
Another researcher proposed using gene editing to modify the human immune system for better nanobot recognition and acceptance. This idea drew criticism from ethicists concerned about unpredictable side effects and ethical dilemmas.
Amid the heated debate, a familiar figure appeared at the back of the room—the Taoist Master in his deep blue robe, expression serious. He remained silent, watching the experts' animated discussion like an immortal observing mortals.
Haiyang noticed the Taoist Master's arrival, and the room's atmosphere subtly shifted. The moderator coughed, attempting to guide the discussion: "Regardless, all your views aim to better realize the technology's ultimate goal. Let's integrate science and culture more closely—after all, everything we do builds upon thousands of years of ancestral wisdom."
The Taoist Master slowly stood, took the microphone, and spoke: "As the Dao De Jing says, 'The way follows nature.' We use these scientific technologies to achieve higher harmony between human body and nature. The Ethereal Refinement Project aims to combine these ancient concepts with modern technology, creating a true path to life's transcendence, benefiting both nation and humanity."
Many researchers showed reverence during his speech—clearly, the Taoist Master had become an authority here.
Watching this, Haiyang felt deeply dismayed at how cutting-edge technology had become entangled with ancient religious doctrine.
During the departmental support phase, representatives detailed their support for the Ethereal Refinement Project. The Defense Science and Technology Industry representative offered latest miniature precision instruments to address critical accuracy issues in nanobot manufacturing.
Wang Jianguo stood as the Hubei Provincial Industrial Department representative: "Our department will continue full cooperation, ensuring priority supply of special materials from key enterprises, regardless of cost."
The medical department representative offered more clinical trial volunteers, raising concerns about ethics and safety. The Taoist Master again defended this with Taoist doctrine, claiming "some volunteers participate willingly for higher purposes."
Other department heads pledged support in funding, personnel, and resources. Haiyang marveled at how state power was being mobilized for these tasks.
Mid-meeting, the Taoist Master was asked to address the recent Longevity Chamber explosion. He spoke with unusual calm: "While the cause remains under investigation, these setbacks won't impede our progress. As Taoist doctrine says, 'Through destruction comes establishment'—these challenges test our faith and scientific exploration." His words even drew applause.
The Taoist Master mentioned how some research breakthroughs were inspired by Taoist rituals, described in classics as enhancing "primordial qi" and promoting self-healing. "These rituals, combined with modern technology, provided crucial inspiration for nanobot design. As devoted Taoists, I hope we can incorporate certain Taoist rituals into future experiments to observe their effects on nanobot activity within the body."
Haiyang nearly choked on his water hearing this.
Near the meeting's end, Xu Jing stood again, glancing at Haiyang: "I hope to receive more expert assistance in future research, including Dr. Wang's support in neural control and nanotech integration. I believe that together, we can overcome current technical bottlenecks and achieve our goals." Haiyang could only nod instinctively.
The Taoist Master then announced a crucial decision: the launch of the "Spirit Resonance" experiment, combining Taoist rituals with nanotechnology to achieve resonance between nanobots and the body's "primordial qi" for enhanced repair capabilities.
This announcement brought brief silence, followed by intense discussion. The moderator then loudly declared: "That's all for today. Meeting adjourned."
As people stood to leave, Xu Jing's eyes met Haiyang's again, seeming to convey something.
Suddenly, someone slapped Haiyang's shoulder. He turned and cursed internally—it was the Taoist Master!