“Dr. Shaw, be careful.”
The person attending to me was a newly recruited researcher. Over the past 30 years, I had survived multiple explosions. I suffered burns to my face, lost my right hand, and could barely see out of my right eye.
If any of my old friends were to show up, they might not even recognize me as the young lady of the Shaw family.
“Dr. Shaw, look here.”
“Dr. Shaw is the greatest.”
The crowd around me voiced their admiration, and I squinted at them one by one.
For 30 years, I had thought I would die here on this honorable battlefield of science. Fortunately, I succeeded. I had propelled humanity forward another step.
This glory belonged to me and to the nation.
“Eleanor Shaw, on behalf of the nation, I present this commendation to you. You’ve done a remarkable job, as have the countless researchers behind you.”
1/2
Chapter 9
+25 BONUS
1:
As soon as the official representative presenting the medal began to speak, I subconsciously straightened my back. My chest swelled with pride.
At the award ceremony, I stood on stage representing many others. Every set of eyes in the audience gazed up at me from below.
They smiled, they cried, and they shared in the collective honor and burden of our achievements.
“Dr. Shaw, would you like to share a word with today’s attendees?”
The host was a young woman exuding a vibrant energy unique to youth.
I patted the back of her hand. “The nation needs a legacy, as do skills and technology. I hope you can achieve more in the future. The honors of the next generation rest on your shoulders.”
After 30 years of non–stop experiments, I could not have pieced together a more eloquent speech.
But I sincerely hoped from the bottom of my heart that every generation could bear their responsibilities and help build a stronger nation.
“Well said.”
Thunderous applause drowned out my quiet sobs.
After the ceremony, I was sent to a specialized care facility.
This was where Jonathan passed away a few years ago. I hadn’t made it back to see him in time.
I also heard that my biological parents had been brought here.
I had never met them. I didn’t know if Rhianne had truly suffered as much as was claimed. Anyhow, they had given me life, so they naturally deserved to relish in all that I had achieved.
