Capturing the Huo Wenzi

In an instant, the swarm of Huo Wenzi covered the black surface of the machinery, turning them a brilliant red.

Previously, regarding the method of capturing the Huo Wenzi, the researchers had engaged in quite a few debates, mainly dividing into two factions. One faction believed that capturing this mosquito species required absolutely no lure. The other faction held the opposite opinion, asserting that a lure was absolutely necessary to succeed. The support rate for both sides was almost equal. In the end, after discussion, they decided to accept both suggestions. Therefore, the batch of machinery dispatched this time included both the type with a lure and the type without, forming mixed squads.

Taking advantage of the Huo Wenzi automatically rushing toward the machinery, these devices immediately switched to capture mode. Actually, this process was quite simple: the machinery would open the automatic collection chamber and wait for the Huo Wenzi to fly in on their own. The next task was simply to wait. When the number of Huo Wenzi inside was sufficient, the machinery would automatically close the collection chamber and return along the pre-established route.

Previously, when designing this process, some researchers suggested that all machinery should return at the same time to make it easier to observe the large target. However, others objected. They believed that while concentrating them made observation easier, it also increased the target size, raising the danger level, especially in this apocalyptic context. Ultimately, the plan of returning as soon as collection was complete won. Those who supported this plan believed that dividing the targets for their return would bring great benefits, at least ensuring that more machinery returned safely, thereby guaranteeing the number of Huo Wenzi specimens obtained.

While the machinery was collecting the Huo Wenzi, the researchers observing from afar were not idle either. To be precise, the laboratory was almost turned upside down by their excitement. Even before departure, they had debated fiercely, each believing they were right. Now, witnessing the machinery smoothly capturing the specimens, the researchers began to argue endlessly, losing their usual composure, each looking like they were on a debate floor to determine the winner.

"Look, wasn't I right! Take a close look!"

"What do you mean you were right? The Huo Wenzi still flew into the one without a lure!"

"11 minutes 25 seconds! 11 minutes 25 seconds! 11 minutes 25 seconds!"

"Isn't that faster than your time!"

"You lost! You've definitely lost!"

"Who says I lost! It's not over yet. Look, they've all entered the chamber!"

"Our idea is the most accurate!"

"You are just wasting resources."

The laboratory completely transformed into a heated debate. However, despite the fierce arguments, the researchers' hands did not stop recording data. Some, though not holding pens, had their brains working at full capacity to memorize. This data was the most solid evidence for them to win this debate.

Time passed amidst the noise of the laboratory and the busyness of the machinery. Finally, the last machine returned safely. This made the researchers extremely excited, proving that their research direction was entirely correct. Now, only a long wait remained...

Some researchers did not want to wait here and moved directly to the specialized laboratory for mosquitoes. This room had only been completed not long ago, and due to the danger of the Huo Wenzi, it was designed to be completely isolated from other areas of the research institute. It was even located quite a distance away from the main research area of N City. Staff who wanted to come here were forced to use specialized vehicles instead of walking or using standard internal transportation.

Researcher Liu was also among them. He did not want to stay in the old laboratory but wanted to go to the specialized place to witness the Huo Wenzi with his own eyes. He was extremely curious about whether this species was truly a mosquito. Although the external structure still bore the shape of a mosquito, he still wanted to dissect one to verify. He had submitted an application for specimens beforehand. Due to the limited number of Huo Wenzi, he had initially only obtained about 10. However, this number could change depending on the results of this harvest. If the harvested quantity was large, he could receive more; otherwise, even the initial 10 would be hard to keep.

Fortunately, this cooperation of the N City Research Institute was a resounding success. All machinery returned safely, and the Huo Wenzi inside were all alive and healthy, with none dead or weakened. The researchers crowded around the transparent glass walls, staring intently at the cylindrical blocks filled with Huo Wenzi. They were so excited that their eyes seemed to flash with sparks, outshining the light emitted by the mosquitoes themselves.

Researcher Liu stood in the laboratory, looking around, and saw that everyone was in a state of fanatical infatuation. He chose a cylindrical block with fewer people around to begin his careful observation. This was his first time getting this close, and he did not want to miss any details, hoping to find more new discoveries. These cylindrical blocks were all products of the Materials Group, specially manufactured to confine this Huo Wenzi species.