Chapter 1256

The first two fragrance types induced deep sleep and excitement, respectively. Alexander guessed the third would have a middling effect, but Lily shook her head decisively. "No! You won't guess it. The third is poison."

Alexander's eyes widened. "Poi—?" he tilted his head, unable to jest. "Didn't you say the experiment aimed to save lives, lessen pain, and showcase medicinal herbs?"

"That's what they said, but they also claimed poison is a type of medicine."

"Nonsense!" Alexander fumed. "What is all this?"

Lily chuckled. "Not entirely. Some medicinal herbs are poisonous, but usable in treatment. Used correctly, they can save lives. They're trying to add a poisonous herb to the fragrances, masking its scent completely. I'm uncomfortable with this."

"Anyone would be! It's great if it saves lives, but what if it's used to harm others? This invention becomes an invisible weapon."

He'd listened respectfully when Lily voiced concerns about the institute's project, but this exceeded his expectations. While no expert, the idea seemed inherently dangerous.

"No, the experiment must stop! I'm withdrawing my investment immediately!"

His company's investment gave him leverage. Withdrawal would halt the experiment, regardless of their willingness.

"I doubt they'll stop. They'll seek other investors. It's been a long time in development, and Professor Thompson's determination is clear; he won't give up easily."

"Let them find others. I wonder if anyone dares invest without my permission!"

His industry influence ensured that was unlikely.

Lily abruptly changed the subject. "I saw someone leaving the lab today. Guess who."

Alexander, puzzled, waited.

"Mike Gordon."

"Him?" Alexander found it unsurprising. "He wanted to join initially. He'll invest? No problem. I'll speak to him; it'll be settled."

Alexander and Mike had a long-standing relationship. Even if interested, Mike, a businessman, would likely withdraw given the project's high risk, unclear direction, and inherent danger.

Lily disagreed. "He seems very interested, persistent. I thought he'd given up, but he clearly hasn't. His visit must have deeper reasons than we think."