Part 3/14:
Uncovered communications reveal the couple discussed ways of smuggling seeds past customs, and Jian’s loyalty pledge supporting the CCP indicates ideological alignment. Authorities also found a PDF titled "2018 plant pathogen warfare under changing climate conditions," referencing the fungus, and a large sum of cash—$750,000—stored in Jian's residence. While it remains unclear exactly what their intentions were, experts warn that tampering could lead to resistant, more dangerous strains capable of widespread ecological and health consequences.