Chapter 145

"Because that happened five years ago, when I was fifteen!" Emma's words silenced the research institute.

A moment later, Mona erupted in laughter. "Hahaha! A fifteen-year-old? What a ridiculous lie! Besides the prodigy Grail, who else could achieve such feats? Emma, do you think we're fools?" Her derision mirrored the unspoken thoughts of others. Obtaining the Holy Orchid Hero Emblem at fifteen was impossible. Emma must be boasting.

Emma's expression remained unchanged, her serene features betraying no emotion. Under her long lashes, her eyes remained calm as she said, in a cold tone, "Sorry, but I am Grail."

She produced the Grail Hero Emblem recently acquired from Bank Shalor, its rarity—one of only three in existence—evident, her profile engraved upon it. She was no longer just a Holy Orchid doctor; she had ascended to Level Grail, a title bearing her name.

Shock rippled through the institute, including the visibly surprised prosecutor. 'Grail? The Grail the world seeks? How is this possible?'

Mona was stunned, then cursed, "You liar! You're lying!"

Emma called Chloe, placing her on speakerphone. Chloe's enthusiastic voice filled the room. "Ms. Grail! I apologize for my previous behavior. I…" Chloe was the judge of the Holy Orchid Hero Emblem. Hearing Chloe's address, Mona's eyes widened in shock. 'Emma is Grail!'

The lead inspector contacted higher authorities. Within half a minute, he bowed, apologizing to Emma. "I apologize, Miss Emma, for disrupting your work and the institute without proper investigation. I am truly sorry." The inspectors had confirmed: Emma hadn't lied. She was the famous Grail.

Emma hadn't wanted to reveal her identity, but Mona had forced her hand. Further investigation would have halted her research.

After the inspectors left, Emma returned to her research, acting as if nothing had happened. She remained remarkably composed amidst the institute's excitement.

"She's truly Grail!" someone exclaimed. "Grail is renowned, but she's just a twenty-year-old girl… Dr. Jay, you have excellent taste."

Henry smiled politely, but glared coldly at Mona. "Mona, I believe it's time for you to leave this research institute."

Mona, still reeling from the revelation, murmured, "How… how is this possible…" She understood Chloe's earlier reluctance—Emma was Grail! But it was too late. Her actions—spreading rumors and damaging Emma's reputation—had consequences. No major institution would hire her now. Years of diligent study were undone by her character flaws.

The news spread online. Comments included: "[Who said Miss Wilson was an imposter? Come out and get slapped!]" "[F**k, this reversal is awesome!]" "[Why isn't Leon saying anything now? He could have spent that money helping poor children instead of hiring trolls! He's so ruthless!]"

Levi, upon seeing the news, almost shouted, "Mrs. Hall is Grail! She's the Grail we've been seeking for years!" He'd been searching for Grail since Liam's injury, unaware she was so close. Levi was ecstatic, but Liam remained calm, as if he'd known all along.

"Mr. Hall… Aren't you excited? Or did she tell you long ago?" Levi asked.

"No," Liam replied calmly.

"So you guessed?"

"Yeah," Liam said, taking a sip of coffee.

Ever since his last black market investigation with T, he'd been certain of Emma's identity. Few could match his hacking skills and resist his cyberattacks. Only one possibility remained: Grail was S, or Emma. Once her identity was exposed, a low profile would be impossible.

What further surprised netizens was her other identity: the talented designer Youth. She was a major figure in two industries. People wondered how many more secrets she held.

Leon raged. He posted about the impossibility of a fifteen-year-old obtaining the emblem, but it was quickly deleted. He furiously refreshed his phone, nearly damaging it, before finding an official statement from the Pharmaceutical Medical Association defending Emma, highlighting her contributions and urging an end to the rumors.

After weeks of sleepless nights, the institute finally completed the virus treatment. Everyone could relax, especially Emma, who had expended the most energy.

Returning to Icovine Estate, she slept in Liam's embrace until noon the next day, enjoying twelve hours of rest. The following afternoon, she awoke to the aroma of food. Liam entered with a tray.

Emma gazed at the exquisite dishes. Preoccupied with her studies, she'd neglected meals. Seeing the food prepared by the Icovine Estate chef, she realized how hungry she was.

Liam fed her carefully. "When I hugged you last night, you felt so thin. You need to eat more."

Emma smiled shyly and took a bite of soup, which was too hot.

"Slow down. It's all yours." Liam looked at her adoringly.

Emma sighed. "It's challenging for researchers. They're exhausted, and the food is mediocre. Professional doctors are truly heroes."

Liam touched her hair. "That's why I don't want you to be a doctor."

Emma nodded. "By the way, I heard many people criticized me online! I've been too busy to check."

"I've deleted them all," Liam said. "Your Uncle Sean helped too. He mentioned your Uncle Richard plans to visit Troln City."

'Uncle Richard?' Emma had four uncles; she'd only met two.

Liam said mysteriously, "Your Uncle Richard sent you a gift. Do you want to see it now?"