Chapter 144

"That's right," Jessica said, patting Sean's shoulder reassuringly. Understanding Emma's importance to him, she added, "Mr. Rivera, trust me on this. I'll have the PR department contact these account holders to remove the posts. You just concentrate on filming!" Jessica's public relations skills were impeccable; she'd successfully managed Sean's arrogance before.

"I'll leave it to you," Sean said. "Make sure Emma doesn't suffer!"

"Sure!" Jessica replied.

Meanwhile, Leon remained unaware that his substantial online expenditure was about to be quashed. Emma and Liam, having finished cuddling, slept soundly.

The next day, before checking Twitter, Emma received an invitation from the Pharmaceutical Medical Association to visit their headquarters. "Miss Emma," a voice urgently announced, "there's an emergency. A mutated virus has been detected overseas. We must begin research immediately!"

Saving lives was a race against time. Without hesitation, Emma began her research. Simultaneously, online public opinion calmed. Liam's efforts had resulted in the trending topics—#Emma’s fake education, #Emma’s badge, and #Legacy of a Healer’s guest—vanishing overnight.

Sean Rivera, the Best Actor, was the first to publicly support Emma: [My niece is a straight-A student! No one can question her credibility! Shouldn't those who received medical treatment from her speak out now?] His post quickly trended. Influencers who supported Emma followed suit.

Chloe, an expert who had previously wronged Emma, seized this opportunity to make amends: [Emma is a genuine doctor with exceptional medical abilities. I can vouch for it with my professional reputation! Those spreading rumors should face legal consequences!]

Leroy Quinn added: [Emma once saved my life. Her talent is evident to all. I hope everyone can handle online rumors responsibly.]

Lane Kemp chimed in: [I’m Lane Kemp, Emma’s senior. I witnessed her curing my grandfather firsthand! Not just me, but all the doctors and nurses present can vouch for it! To the individual spreading rumors, claiming Emma is a fraud, is it true that she has saved numerous lives? Those who harm others in secret are cowards lurking in the shadows!]

Following Lane's statement, Vark College's official account retweeted Leroy's tweet. While Otis didn't use Twitter, St. Grace Church's official account also retweeted in support. Netizens were shocked by the cross-sectional support for Emma—a first for such prominent figures. Her influence was undeniable; bribery was improbable. The truth was now clear.

At the Medical Base, Emma remained engrossed in her research, oblivious to the online drama. Henry Jay, the lead researcher, explained, "The current threat is global warming, exacerbated by a prehistoric microorganism released from melting glaciers. Our understanding is limited. Widespread infection could be catastrophic!" He continued, "The higher-ups want a resolution immediately."

"Got it," Emma replied, donning protective gear and entering the laboratory. The medical base resembled a top-tier research facility. Henry held high hopes for Emma's contributions.

Suddenly, a researcher rushed in: "Dr. Jay, bad news!"

"What is it?" Henry asked.

"A message claims Emma's Holy Hero badge is fake!" the researcher exclaimed anxiously. "I checked the official website; she's not listed. Should we...?"

Henry frowned. The research's national importance meant that misinformation could be disastrous.

"Don't tell anyone Emma doesn't have the badge…" Henry whispered.

Unbeknownst to them, someone overheard.

That afternoon, while Emma researched, a group of uniformed officers entered. Their leader presented identification: "We received a report that someone deliberately faked their identity and infiltrated the base!" The base's personnel exchanged uneasy glances. "Who?" they wondered.

Henry and the researcher exchanged glances, fearing Emma's situation had been exposed. Henry attempted a defense: "Sir, we're all researchers. How could someone fabricate this? Who reported her?"

"I reported her!" Mona stepped forward.

Emma's eyes hardened. Mona, lifting her chin haughtily, declared, "I may not be a doctor, but I graduated from a prestigious medical school with a genuine diploma, unlike someone who entered with fake credentials." Having seen online rumors but lacking concrete evidence, Mona, upon hearing Henry confirm Emma lacked the badge, decided to report her. With Chloe's refusal to help, she would expose Emma herself.

The inspector remained impartial: "Emma, please come with us to the police station!"

Henry sensed a misunderstanding and tried to defend Emma. Mona fueled the fire: "Fake identity is a serious crime. She deserves a harsh sentence. Dr. Jay, you brought her here! You're responsible!"

Despite this, Henry persisted: "If Emma faked it, how could she possess such outstanding ability? You all know her skills. There must be a misunderstanding!"

"Let's go to the police station," the police officer stated.

"But the research can't wait; it's urgent…" Henry glared at Mona, disgusted by her prioritization of personal vengeance over research and human lives.

Tension filled the air. Someone urged, "Emma, say something!" Another added, "That's right, Emma. You said your badge is real!"

Everyone awaited Emma's response. Then, she uttered a shocking statement: "There's no need to check! I'm no longer on the Holy Orchid Hero Emblem's list."