Chapter 627: That Is Exactly What It Means (Bonus Chapter)

If one's background is sufficiently good, one's channels sufficiently broad, and one knows enough, one would actually not dare to harbor reckless ideas. Because they are very clear about what Lin Sicheng is raising this money for, and who is standing behind him.

If one's background is average and one's connections are not that solid, one would dare even less to harbor such ideas, because they are afraid of kicking an iron plate.

Even if they have some thoughts, they will first try their best to inquire and ensure there is no risk before taking action.

What is to be feared is the type who relies on having connections, yet knows nothing, and neither inquires nor asks, simply treating Lin Sicheng as a piece of fat meat.

Do not be surprised, and do not think that there are no hot-headed youths among the children of the compounds. On the contrary, there are more than a few.

Lin Sicheng's energy is limited, and his time is even more limited; there is no need to waste it on such bullshit matters. Rather than wasting time and effort and getting angry, it is better to unsheathe the blade early.

The leaders who came uninvited today and took the initiative to show their support are the blades prepared for Lin Sicheng.

They can be unsheathed at any time, to point where he wants and cut where he wants.

And this piece of calligraphy is a Shangfang Sword that Ye Xing'an requested for him. It is not to be unsheathed unless necessary; once unsheathed, heads will roll.

Thinking of this, Lin Sicheng let out a breath and carried the scroll into the lobby.

Along the way, people would occasionally glance at Wang Qizhi and Ye Anning, guessing wildly.

They recognize Director Ye, and they also recognize Department Head Wang, and they know their relationship with Wang Qizhi.

But they do not know that these two are actually so close to Lin Sicheng?

Could it be just because he is the younger brother's student?

Nonsense————

But they only guessed in their hearts; no one dared to say it, and no one dared to discuss it.

Just then, Li Shichen and Chen Feng had just come out of Tang Sijiang's private room; they first looked outside, then laughed with schadenfreude: "I seem to have seen Director Ye (Supervision Bureau) and Department Head Wang; why didn't they come in?"

Lin Sicheng sighed: Does Director Li really love watching the chaos?

Whether it is Customs or the Public Security, the nature of both is quite special, and the Organization Department cannot manage them, so Li Shichen is naturally not afraid.

But what about the others?

"They have business!"

"Fine, let's just say Director Ye and Department Head Wang have business!" Li Shichen sighed, "Lin Sicheng, only now do I believe: you really didn't plan to hold a big event."

"It's one thing that Director Ye and Department Head Wang didn't come in, but I looked around and actually didn't see your father or mother?"

Lin Sicheng was between laughter and tears: So you've been wandering around the lobby for this long just to do this?

Not to mention they didn't come, Lin Sicheng didn't even notify them: he was afraid the Foreign Investment Association would play dirty tricks——————

"Director Li, even if you saw them, you wouldn't recognize them?"

"I have a mouth under my nose; if I don't recognize them, can't I ask?"

While joking, Li Shichen pointed to the calligraphy in his hand: "What is this, an Ancient Painting?"

"No, Uncle Ye helped me request a piece of calligraphy!"

Director Ye, requested?

Li Shichen was stunned: "Whose?"

"The Leader's!"

Lin Sicheng did not say who, but Li Shichen knew which leader Ye Xing'an had gone to request the calligraphy from.

In an instant, Li Shichen's spirit was lifted: Good fellow, Director Ye really treats you as his son-in-law————

But after a moment of thought, he suddenly realized: Pfft, pfft, pfft————that is not the case at all.

It is hard to say, perhaps this calligraphy was not requested by Director Ye, but given by the Leader on his own initiative————

He looked serious and instructed solemnly: "Lin Sicheng, don't hide it; let as many people know as possible!"

Chen Feng followed closely, pointing at the stage: "It's best to hang it up right now!"

Lin Sicheng sighed inwardly: Sure enough, at this level, who is slow to react?

"Then shall I hang it up first?"

"Go hang it up quickly!" Li Shichen was impatient, "Since it is the Leader's ink treasure, it must be for everyone to Appraisal together————Department Head Chen, you go invite Department Head Wu and Department Head Xiao, I will go invite Tang Sijiang, and by the way, notify General Team Li and General Team Sun————"

"Good!"

The two went into the private room, one on the left and one on the right. Wang Qizhi was stunned: "Lin Sicheng, will this be too high-profile?"

Since the second elder sister gave instructions, it must be hung, but if everyone is allowed to visit it together, will the Leader be unhappy?

Lin Sicheng shook his head: Since the Leader could give him this calligraphy, he knew what he would use it for.

Even, the Leader wrote it for this very reason——————

To take a step back: the auction Lin Sicheng held, sixteen antiques raised 3.25 billion, an average of 200 million each; he did not feel it was high-profile.

He placed peerless treasures that made everyone who saw them jealous out in the open, and he also did not feel it was high-profile.

Now, at the time when it should be most high-profile, he finds it too high-profile?

Wang Qizhi was stunned: "Lin Sicheng, this is not the same thing."

Lin Sicheng was noncommittal: It is indeed not the same thing, but in the end, the principle is the same.

During the auction, if Lin Sicheng had not been high-profile, he would not have been able to raise that much money.

If he had not taken out the Rhino Horn Cup, the Foreign Investment Association would definitely have been endless, harping on the issue of funds.

But with the Rhino Horn Cup, it meant Lin Sicheng could raise those 3 billion-plus again, and the Association would have to give up.

The same is true now: if there were not so many leaders here to show support, and if there were not this piece of calligraphy, starting from tomorrow, there would definitely be countless troubles knocking on his door, and even more countless ghosts and monsters coming to sponge off him.

When the time is ripe and they are bolder, they will reveal their true colors: those wanting money will want money, those wanting shares will want shares, and those wanting the cup will want the cup————

Lin Sicheng thought for a moment: "Teacher, the Great Man once said: Strike one punch to avoid a hundred punches coming————"

Wang Qizhi stared with wide eyes, as if stunned.

Lin Sicheng called him several times: "Teacher————Teacher?"

Not until Ye Anning poked him did Wang Qizhi react: "Oh, oh————what is it?"

"Teacher, I'll go hang it up with you!"

Wang Qizhi shook his head: "It's just over a meter, does that need two people?"

That's true.

Lin Sicheng didn't insist further and went up to the stage alone.

Just as Lin Sicheng turned around, Wang Qizhi's face flushed red in an instant: How embarrassing?

Could his own insight actually be inferior to his student's?

Ye Anning was right beside him, and seeing his awkward expression, she let out a "pfft" and laughed: "Uncle, there are plenty of people who aren't as good as Lin Sicheng, what's there to be embarrassed about?"

Nonsense, I am his teacher—

Wang Qizhi made a move to hit her, and Ye Anning quickly dodged.

"Even my dad said that at Lin Sicheng's age, he didn't have Lin Sicheng's capability, let alone his courage."

o

Wang Qizhi glared at her: "Ye Anning, are you just spouting nonsense?"

What kind of person is my brother-in-law?

In all these years, I've never seen him praise anyone, let alone admit he's inferior to someone.

"Why would I lie to you? He told me and my mom himself: over three billion, Lin Sicheng can really earn it—but in the blink of an eye, he spent it all? Lin Sicheng can really spend it too—"

Wang Qizhi opened his mouth, speechless.

If you want to compare like that, to surpass Lin Sicheng, you'd need the God of Wealth to possess you.

It only took Lin Sicheng two years to earn those three-plus billion. The key is that he started from scratch, didn't rely on any connections, and didn't take any shortcuts; he relied entirely on his own ability.

Whoever dares to say their ability is greater than Lin Sicheng's, let them try.

And it only took Lin Sicheng two hours to spend those three-plus billion. The key is that he didn't spend it on himself.

The point is: nine times out of ten, this money is going down the drain.

Who dares to put their hand on their heart and say: knowing full well that this money will be lost completely, and might even lead to huge debts, they would still go ahead without looking back, without the slightest hesitation, and invest over three billion?

Just to gamble on that sliver of hope that is less than one percent—

Wang Qizhi sighed: "How old is Lin Sicheng? If we compare by brother-in-law's standards, who could ever compare?"

Ye Anning said as a matter of course: "Aren't people from Grandfather's generation all like that? Just like Grandfather, when he was carrying a gun to resist the Japanese, he was only in his teens—"

Before she could finish, she was met with a pair of rolled eyes from Wang Qizhi: Ye Anning, you really know how to compare, don't you?

Those were revolutionary martyrs, shedding their blood and sacrificing their lives—it's just that Grandfather was lucky and is still alive.

Immediately, Wang Qizhi paused and frowned again: If one must compare, Lin Sicheng definitely doesn't measure up.

However, from certain angles, the nature of the things he is doing is the same as what was done in Grandfather's generation—

As he thought about it, Wang Qizhi gasped: Good heavens, has Lin Sicheng's stature already reached such a height?

No wonder brother-in-law would say: Qizhi is shortsighted, don't listen to him—

Lin Sicheng went up to the stage and had the restaurant staff bring two tables, push them together, and cover them with a velvet cloth.

Then he unfolded the calligraphy.

Rice-white xuan paper, a vertical hanging scroll, about sixty wide and one meter sixty-seven long.

The backing was light silk, the mounting was simple and elegant, and the color tone was calm and solemn.

Looking at the content—in an instant, blood seemed to rush to his head, and Lin Sicheng's face went numb. He stood there motionless, eyes fixed on the characters, but his pupils lacked focus.

It wasn't that he wasn't steady enough, nor was it that he was shortsighted and hadn't seen important figures. It was just that the meaning of the words on it was truly too heavy—

The guests saw Xiao Heng and Wu Hui come out of the private room, and saw Tang Dingping come out as well.

Behind them were Li Shichen, Chen Feng, Li Daoheng, Sun Liancheng, as well as General Manager Xu of the Oriental Group and Lan Laotaitai.

A dozen or so people in total stood by Lin Sicheng's side.

The hall was noisy with people guessing the origin of this calligraphy. But the circle around the table was surprisingly quiet.

They were shocked not just by the person who inscribed it: because many people had seen Ye Xing'an and Wang Qiguang, and also saw Ye Anning holding the scroll. They could roughly guess the source of this calligraphy.

Either it was this leader or that leader.

Lin Sicheng had even said himself that Li Shichen and Chen Feng both knew who wrote this calligraphy. When the two of them went to call people, they didn't play coy and had mentioned the origin of this calligraphy.

But most people thought: this was something Ye Xing'an had requested for Lin Sicheng, relying on his personal friendship with his superior and the family friendship between the two elders.

They were surprised, but only surprised by the importance Ye Xing'an placed on Lin Sicheng and his expectations for him; there was no lack of people guessing when the two families would become one.

At the same time, they were also surprised by the relationship between Ye Xing'an and his superior: they had never heard of that person inscribing anything for anyone. But this time, an exception was made; just for the opening of a small Center, he had picked up the brush?

But looking at it now, that wasn't the case at all. The leader inscribing this calligraphy had nothing to do with Ye Xing'an's personal friendship, and certainly nothing to do with family ties.

It didn't even have half a cent's worth of relation to whether the Center was opening or not.

Don't believe it?

First, look at what is written on it.

In the center are large characters in running-regular script, with two lines on the sides: A youth sharpens his sword to manifest public righteousness; with clear judgment, he seeks truth to serve the country.

At the bottom left are two more lines of small inscription: Seeing the subtle to know the manifest, with the ambition to save the family and country, commending the aspirations of a young talent.

Upon seeing those two lines of poetry, everyone was stunned, their faces full of disbelief.

This was not a simple inscription, but an affirmation and commendation of Lin Sicheng's past achievements, and even more, an expectation for Lin Sicheng's future career. And, based on personal sentiment, an appreciation for him.

The key lies in the words at the end of each line: public righteousness, country.

When these two words are placed together, the meaning they represent is no longer just "big," but heavier than a mountain: if he hadn't made outstanding contributions and exerted enormous value, even to the point of being "selfless" and "beneficial to the country and the people," how could there be such an evaluation?

Just because Lin Sicheng opened three Centers?

Don't make me laugh—

Those with similar thoughts belonged to the majority; beyond their surprise, they were mostly confused.

As for the small handful remaining, upon seeing the content and the inscription, they were as if stunned.

Especially Wang Qizhi and Zhao Xiuneng: at that instant, there was a "buzz" in their ears, as if all the blood in their bodies had rushed to their brains. In a flash, it was so stimulating that their scalps went numb.

Because they knew very well what Lin Sicheng had done. His actions and deeds could completely be called "upholding his original intention, selfless and impartial."

It was so in the past, it is so now, and it will remain so in the future.

Instinctively, Wang Qizhi recalled that joking remark of Ye Xing'an's: "Sicheng, Qi Zhi is ignorant and short-sighted, don't listen to him—"

Including just now, Wang Qizhi had been somewhat disapproving, thinking his brother-in-law was just teasing. Only now did he understand: his brother-in-law truly believed that.

Because all along, this was how Lin Sicheng had acted, and his only stumbling block was himself.

When in Xijing, without a cent of salary, without a dime of subsidy, Lin Sicheng served as a Consultant for Chen Peng for free.

For days and nights without rest or sleep, braving the winter wind to watch the stars on the mountains and observe the terrain at the foot of the mountains.

For two whole months, Lin Sicheng relied on a pair of feet to measure Cheng Nan in Xijing back and forth three times, finally managing to find the Zhang Anshi Tomb.

If it were only this, Wang Qizhi would not say anything: because this was what Lin Sicheng studied, and this was what he would do in the future. There was no harm in using his expertise when necessary to help the Police department.

What Wang Qizhi did not understand was: why did Lin Sicheng have to clash with criminals, confront them, and play mind games?

Get it straight, this is the Police's job, you are just a student?

After that time, he asked Lin Sicheng personally: "Lin Sicheng, what are you after? What, you're after nothing?"

Your life is your own, right?

Lin Sicheng only replied with one sentence: "Teacher, some things, someone has to do them—"

After his father-in-law learned that he had asked Lin Sicheng this, he scolded him severely and entrusted his wife to send Lin Sicheng a seal by Qi Baishi: "Knowing People and Knowing Artifacts."

There was no need to say anything; just these four characters and the origin of this seal were enough to show an attitude: these four characters were an inscription

written by a great man for Qi Baishi—

This was also the first time Wang Qizhi was scolded for trying to advise Lin Sicheng.

The second time was in Shanxi: Lin Sicheng was again wandering all over the mountains and plains like a wild man, just to find Hejin Porcelain and trade for some technology with the local culture department.

And at that time, the local government was not just failing to attach importance to it, but was indifferent, and even waiting to see a joke.

Let alone support, even when Lin Sicheng rented a data room or a research room, they charged him. All Consumables were clearly priced, and instruments were all charged by the day.

This time it took even longer; Lin Sicheng spent four whole months walking through the mountains, ridges, rivers, and streams of Yuncheng, Shanxi, relying on his two legs to find five kilns and four types of famous porcelain for Shanxi.

Afterwards, Wang Qizhi asked once again: "Lin Sicheng, what are you after?"

This time Lin Sicheng changed his usual manner and replied: "Teacher, don't worry, in the end, it definitely won't be a loss."

It was indeed not a loss; on the contrary, it earned quite a bit. The Palace Porcelain produced in cooperation with the Forbidden City and the Jingdezhen Artifact Research Institute alone was enough for Lin Sicheng to live on for ten years.

However, this was at the very end, when the locals wanted to reap the rewards, and in an extremely disgusting way, which really ticked Lin Sicheng off.

But at the very beginning, Lin Sicheng was entirely aiming to make a contribution; if the locals had cooperated even a little bit or supported him even a little bit, Lin Sicheng could never have been so ruthless.

This time, his second sister called and scolded him: "Short-sighted and narrow-minded—have all those thirty-plus years of books been read into a dog's belly?"

At that time, Wang Qizhi really wanted to argue back, but he didn't dare.

Then came the third time, the one in Beijing: this time it was even better, Lin Sicheng played an even more exciting game.

He was no longer satisfied with outsmarting criminals, but went straight up to engage in a head-on confrontation.

Facing dozens of guns and bombs, facing Wang Chun, who had countless lives on his hands, and who could have blown him to the sky the next second, Lin Sicheng was actually able to remain calm and composed, chatting and laughing?

Wang Qizhi once thought that such scenes could only appear in television dramas. Even though his grandfather had experienced it personally and told him many times, Wang Qizhi still did not believe it.

He did not believe that such a person could exist in this world, until Lin Sicheng demonstrated it to him personally.

Wang Qizhi knew he might get scolded, but he still asked: "Lin Sicheng, what are you after?"

This time Lin Sicheng learned his lesson and brushed him off to his face: "Teacher, it's all just bad luck, I was pushed to the edge."

Wang Qizhi didn't believe a word of it: "Being slashed at Panjiayuan, that is indeed your bad luck."

"Seeing that the Tang girl was about to lose her life and saving her out of instinct, that is also understandable."

"But serving as a Consultant for the Police, did the Police hold a gun to your head to force you to go?"

"You even ended up as the leader, leading the Police to solve cases and leading the Police to arrest people?"

"Lin Sicheng, how are you so capable?"

And then it was over, his grandfather found out: "Wang the Third, someone like you is actually able to be a teacher to others? Even if you were a teacher to a dog, I wouldn't want it—have all my years of teaching been spoken to a dog, damn it?"

Even his brother-in-law, who was always amiable and had never had any friction with him, made a call. Although he didn't say it explicitly, the meaning was clear:

"Qi Zhi, we can understand that you are worried about Lin Sicheng. However, you must pay attention to your way of speaking. If you really don't know how to advise him, call me next time, and I will teach you."

This was the first time Ye Xing'an had lectured Wang Qizhi in such a serious and solemn tone, and it was also the only time.

Therefore, Wang Qizhi also learned his lesson. The fourth time, which was this time, he didn't dare to say a word from beginning to end.

Although he did not understand: why did Lin Sicheng insist on those nineteen technologies instead of the tens of billions in compensation?

The key was that the restrictions and obstacles were as numerous as ox hair, endless and infinite.

Wang Qizhi understood even less: knowing clearly that there might be no result, why did Lin Sicheng have to smash the pots and sink the boats, to gamble

on that faint, pitiful hope?

Five years later, if nothing was researched in the end, not only would tens of billions go down the drain, but Lin Sicheng would even have to bear tens of billions in breach-of-contract penalties.

And the key was that these technologies had absolutely nothing to do with him, and they were not work he should be doing, but the country's.

If he were lucky enough to succeed, there would be credit, but no substantial benefits; it would probably just cover the costs he invested. If he failed, it was very likely he wouldn't even get the credit for his hard work, and instead would owe a debt that couldn't be repaid for generations.

Now, Wang Qizhi understood, because of this calligraphy: "The youth sharpens his sword to manifest public justice, seeking truth with a clear mirror to serve the country."

The first sentence refers to the grave-robbing case at the Zhang Anshi Tomb in Xijing, and even more so to the Wang Chun case in Beijing.

Lin Sicheng had no sword, but his performance was more perfect and better executed than those qualified to wear one.

Who would dare say he is not selfless, fearless, and forging ahead?

The second sentence refers to those five kilns in Shanxi, and the nineteen technologies snatched back from the hands of six foreign companies.

This was indeed not work that Lin Sicheng was supposed to do; furthermore, those who were supposed to do it had worked at it for many years, and had also put in effort for many years, yet had never succeeded.

But Lin Sicheng succeeded, and precisely because it was not his job, it appeared all the more precious.

Who would dare say he is not managing the world for the people, and aspiring to save the nation?

Therefore, the two lines inscribed by the leader were not in the least bit watered down, but were a true portrayal of Lin Sicheng.

There was also the final line: "He who travels one hundred paces counts ninety as half," and right now, Lin Sicheng had only taken a small step; there were at least ninety-nine and a half steps left to go.

For this reason, the leader specially inscribed a note: "Commending the aspirations of a young talent."

Thinking of this, Wang Qizhi sighed inwardly: It's over.

With this piece of calligraphy, Lin Sicheng might really dedicate his life to the country and see those nineteen technologies through to the end.

It wasn't that he couldn't do it, Wang Qizhi just felt: You're only in your twenties, why think so much?

Even if you do think, you shouldn't have your head full of only "the people" and "the country"; you still need a little bit of "yourself."

Wang Qizhi also didn't feel his own thinking was wrong; if he were to speak his heart: if one regarded Lin Sicheng as one's own son, wouldn't everyone be like him?

People are all selfish; no one wants their own kin to take risks for others, let alone risk their lives. And such people make up ninety-nine point nine percent of the world.

Since most people think this way, then it is the truth.

Just as the ancestors said: "When poor, cultivate one's own virtue; when successful, benefit the world."

But it only asks you to benefit the world, it didn't tell you to risk your life—

They just watched, and no one spoke.

There was no appraisal, no evaluation, no mention of whether the calligraphy was written well or poorly, or if the meaning was profound or shallow.

It was as if they had just come to go through the motions?

But only those in the know understood: how deep the shock this piece of calligraphy gave people was.

They were moved by the leader's affirmation and expectations, and even more shocked by what Lin Sicheng had done.

Usually, most people regarded him as an excellent young man with a good personality, great ability, and politeness.

Those closer to him felt this kid had immense sense of responsibility: when things happened, he truly stepped up, even risking his neck to do so.

For example, Wu Hui, Xiao Heng, Chen Feng, Li Shichen, and even Li Daoheng and Sun Liancheng.

Among these people, who hadn't owed Lin Sicheng a favor?

Especially the latter three, who had personally risked their lives alongside Lin Sicheng.

Even now, the danger to Lin Sicheng had not been lifted: it was possible that one day, foreign capital might grit its teeth and deal him a heavy blow.

Based on this realization, these people had an extremely good impression of Lin Sicheng, and without realizing it, they had become friends.

But very few people had carefully calculated what Lin Sicheng had actually done.

It wasn't until the moment they saw this calligraphy that they realized belatedly: Lin Sicheng had actually done so much?

Silently finishing their look, they silently dispersed; Lin Sicheng put away the calligraphy and placed it into a box.

The other guests were baffled: Why was no one speaking, each one like a mute?

In their astonishment, the stage was already empty; Lin Sicheng thanked everyone as per custom, and then opened the banquet.

According to the plan, he was supposed to speak a lot, and Wang Qizhi had even specially drafted an outline for him. But with this calligraphy, everything could be omitted.

The guests off-stage were even less concerned; in fact, no one was listening at all. Everyone was curious: Who wrote the calligraphy, and what was written?

Why did those leaders collectively fall silent after seeing the calligraphy?

It was unknown where it spread from, but someone learned the origin of that calligraphy, and also learned its content, and then it spread from ten to a hundred.

Then, as if by prior agreement, the sound in the hall grew quieter and quieter.

Some people were pondering the meaning of those two lines of poetry, as well as the intention behind the inscription.

Others were searching for Lin Sicheng's figure, hoping to get an answer from him.

But regardless of the thought, they would all coincidentally come to one realization: What has Lin Sicheng done?

He Youhan did not sit in a private room; he had requested to sit in the main hall. Therefore, he was also fortunate enough to witness this scene.

At the very beginning, he was still interested, curious as to why Lin Sicheng knew so many people from the industry?

There were businessmen, government officials, scholars, experts, and also big collectors who usually kept a low profile but would spend millions or tens of millions the moment they made a move.

Gradually, curiosity turned into suspicion: the officials Lin Sicheng knew were not only numerous, but their ranks were sufficiently high.

But some had absolutely nothing to do with museology, Cultural Relics, or the cultural industry; why would they also come to support him?

For example, the police, for example, Customs?

But before long, suspicion turned into astonishment: one department-level official, two department-level officials, three department-level officials—this was enough to fill a table.

He could no longer hold back, looking at the three at the same table: "The most important item in a background check is social connections; why was this not there?"

Liang Shiya stammered, unable to respond.

Guo Yongxin and Chen Jiashan were dumbfounded, their expressions even more surprised than He Youhan's: what they had investigated was merely Wang Qizhi's identity.

At most, they added one point: Lin Sicheng and Ye Anning might be a couple.

But only might: because for this past month, Lin Sicheng and Ye Anning rarely appeared in public alone. Whenever the two appeared together, it was definitely a grand occasion. They had also never seen the two have any intimate gestures or actions.

Liang Shiya had even asked personally; although Ye Anning did not deny it, she did not admit it either.

Taking a step back: the two were only a couple, not husband and wife. Wang Qizhi and he were only teacher and student, with no blood relationship whatsoever.

Based on this premise, the power and connections Lin Sicheng could leverage were basically negligible.

But today, suddenly so many big figures had popped up?

Liang Shiya mumbled with her lips, very much wanting to explain, but the problem was: she truly did not know.

It had only been a little over a month; what could be checked were only public records. Was she supposed to install a wiretap on Lin Sicheng, listening every day to whom he met and whom he called?

Looking at the expressions of the three, He Youhan also reacted: his questioning had been a bit sudden.

He had been here for ten days, and had only done two things: investigate Lin Sicheng's background, and investigate the origin of those three billion-plus, as well as whether Liang Shiya and the team had engaged in malpractice during Lin Sicheng's fundraising process.

He had indeed put in the effort, and coupled with the fact that his channels were already broad enough, he had found out more than Liang Shiya had.

But this "more" was only relative: he had found out about Wang Qiguang and Ye Xing'an, and he had also found out about Xiao Heng and Wu Hui.

The former was a private relationship, while the latter was a long-term established cooperative relationship, similar to that of a superior and a friend.

But he had not found out that Lin Sicheng also had connections with the Police and Customs.

If one were to say that Xiao Heng and Wu Hui still carried some reserve, feeling that they were older and it was not appropriate to mess around with Lin Sicheng, then those police officers and that leader from the Customs anti-smuggling department were simply unscrupulous and uninhibited.

From this, it can be seen that these relationships did not come from Wang Qizhi and Ye Anning, but were established by Lin Sicheng himself. And such relationships, even more so, could not have been formed overnight—

This is the first point; there is a second: that Tang Sijiang.

He Youhan indeed did not know him, but someone else did, so he came to know as well: his background was not much different from Wang Qizhi's, but Tang Dingping was more outstanding and also more hardworking.

But what he found strange was not this, but why this person would bring his whole family along?

With his status and in an occasion like this, for him to be able to bring his wife and children, there is only one possibility: he and Lin Sicheng are

family friends.

But He Youhan knew very clearly: Lin Sicheng's family background was very ordinary; he had no opportunity and no channels to know someone like Tang Dingping.

Besides this, what He Youhan found even stranger was Tang Dingping's attitude during their interaction: he was merely polite to Wang Qizhi, and even a bit distant.

But when speaking with Lin Sicheng, his face revealed an irrepressible appreciation, as well as the expectations one would only have for a nephew or a younger generation.

The key is that it was not just him: his wife, his daughter, and his two nephews all held this same attitude.

Lin Sicheng could even joke around with that child who had just learned to walk; it is evident how close they are usually and how frequently they visit each other.

Especially Tang Sijiang's daughter, the way she looked at Lin Sicheng once made He Youhan recall the days of his youth: green and ignorant, yet cautious—

He Youhan eased his emotions and his tone became much gentler: "It seems we still need to investigate!"

Liang Shiya was just about to speak, but he waved his hand: "Leave this matter to me; you all just focus on your own duties!"

The three women did not speak and nodded in unison.

They were unfamiliar with the place, but He Youhan was not: don't look at his face, which looks more like a foreigner's than a Chinese person's; if

comparing information channels, he had no fewer than that Professor Wang.

The facts were indeed so; He Youhan had already begun to think about who would be suitable to find, and whether he should let the elders in his family make a call first.

Just as he was secretly planning, Lin Sicheng unfolded that piece of calligraphy.

Hindered by his status, He Youhan did not stand up, but just waited quietly.

Until the people doing the Appraisal dispersed and the guests in the hall began to discuss it.

This time, He Youhan was not surprised, but his brows were furrowed into a "chuan" shape.

He could guess the purpose and logic behind Lin Sicheng not wanting any compensation but being persistent about these nineteen technologies: Lin Sicheng was not asking for himself, but was helping the country ask for them.

He could also imagine that the country must attach great importance to it. Consequently, the affirmation, recognition, and evaluation of Lin Sicheng must be very high.

He Youhan had not expected it to be this high, rising directly to the level of acting for the country and the people?

But it could not have suddenly become this high; something else must have happened in between—

He Youhan pondered in silence, while Sun Jingzhou beside him sat in unease.

He could be considered to have seen the world, but even in his most glorious years, he had never seen so many leaders.

Sun Jingzhou could not figure it out: if he were just a slightly more outstanding young man with a family background as ordinary as could be, why

would he have such prominent interpersonal relationships?

Thinking again of the things He Youhan had entrusted to him, Sun Jingzhou could not help but want to back out: this money, I'm afraid, is not easy to earn?

But just as the thought arose, as if they shared a telepathic connection, He Youhan looked over.

His face wore a half-smile, and his eyes were as deep as the sea: "Mr. Sun, it is just a normal exchange; it is neither illegal nor against the rules, no need to worry—"

"Swish," sweat appeared on Sun Jingzhou's face: how is it that this person seems to have X-ray vision, knowing even what I am thinking?

He feigned calmness: "General Manager He is right!"

"Mr. Sun, I know what you are worried about: it is nothing more than the fear that old matters will be dug up and placed under the spotlight—"

"—"

"But rest assured, China is a place that follows the law: so much time has passed, those who should be dead are already dead, and the accounts that should have been cleared have been cleared seven or eight times over; even if someone wants to reopen the case or blow it out of proportion, they must have something to work with—"

Pausing slightly, He Youhan smiled again: "What's more, I am here: since I dared to bring you back, I can protect you—"

Sun Jingzhou let out half a breath of relief.

His identity was handled personally by He Youhan; as long as he does not admit it, he is Sun Jingzhou, not Sun Henian.

The reason it was only half a breath was that the lineup today was truly too frightening.

If things followed He Youhan's plan, he and Lin Sicheng could only be locked in a life-or-death struggle: either you fall, or I fall.

And no matter who falls, he, Sun Jingzhou, would be the one to suffer the consequences.

Sun Jingzhou could already imagine the day he would be used as a scapegoat?

Suddenly, a bitter taste rose in his mouth, as if he had eaten coptis—

The dishes were sumptuous, the wine was not bad, and the atmosphere was very lively.

Lin Sicheng broke his rule and picked up his wine glass, toasting table by table. Ye Anning followed behind, specifically pouring wine for him.

When they reached the private room of Xiao Heng and Wu Hui, both sides were in the midst of a fierce drinking bout: the dishes were only half served, and three empty bottles had already been tossed onto the sideboard. With five people, it meant each person had already downed six taels.

But their state was still fine; no one was seen with a red face, nor was anyone seen slurring their words.

Lin Sicheng toasted them one by one, one glass per person.

For a moment, everyone was both shocked and curious: having known him for so long, who had ever seen Lin Sicheng drink alcohol?

Whether it was white liquor, red wine, or beer—

To be this wild today?

Even if it were just a small one-tael glass, and even if he only toasted a few private rooms, he would have to drink at least two jin going around this circle.

Li Shichen felt something was off, leaned forward, and sniffed again: faintly, a floral scent seemed to be floating from Lin Sicheng's cup?

Looking further back: Ye Anning was holding the bottle with both hands, so the bottle body and the label could not be seen.

Li Shichen sniffed again, then bared his teeth in a pained expression: "Lin Sicheng, do you still have any shame?"

"Even 'Coward's Joy' (beer) is three and a half degrees, does this wine of yours even have one degree?"

Lin Sicheng took the bottle and flashed it: "Who said it doesn't? Look, two degrees————"

After a glance, Li Shichen was so angry he laughed: Osmanthus wine?

Even women don't drink this————

"And you're using this to toast us?"

Lin Sicheng argued with conviction: "Director Li, my brain is useful————"

The five people were all stunned at once.

Your brain is a brain, but our brains aren't brains?

"Fine, fine———— so that's how it is?" Li Shichen raised his cup, "Lin Sicheng, you just wait for me, there will be a time when you don't use your brain!"

At this moment, he absolutely could not back down, otherwise he would be switched to hard liquor in seconds. Lin Sicheng was not afraid at all: "We'll talk about that when the time comes!"

After toasting everyone in a circle, Lin Sicheng offered a few words of thanks and left the private room.

Fortunately, Li Shichen was just an isolated case: others didn't want to urge him to drink, but their relationship hadn't reached that point.

Tang Nanyu was eager to try, but before she could pick up the bottle, Tang Nanjin pressed it back down.

Wang Qizhi accompanied him personally, and Tang Dingping also sipped a few cups. He did not urge him to drink, but let Lin Sicheng sit beside him and talked for a long while.

The gist was similar to Ye Xing'an's, just not as blunt. But Lin Sicheng could hear Tang Dingping's meaning:

As long as you feel it is right and meaningful, go ahead and do it boldly.

In the places you can see, there are many people supporting you, such as the guests present today. And in the places you cannot see, there are even more people supporting you.

Regardless of which kind, they all know how difficult these nineteen technologies are; failure is inevitable, and success is a miracle.

But doing it at least gives a glimmer of hope; even if you only advance a little bit each time and summarize some failed experiences, it is worth it.

Therefore, you must not have any psychological burden————

Lin Sicheng listened silently, nodding from time to time; the private room was deathly silent.

Those who did not understand the situation felt more admiration, or even reverence, such as Tang Nanjin and Tang Nanyu.

They were all of the same generation, and they were even a few years older than Lin Sicheng, but Lin Sicheng had already left them behind by a hundred and eight thousand miles.

And those who knew were secretly suspicious, such as Wang Qizhi: why does it feel like the higher-ups are preparing to place this burden on Lin Sicheng's shoulders?

Wasn't it said before that he would only hold a nominal position?

But looking at Lin Sicheng, he didn't seem surprised at all, as if it were a matter of course————

After talking for nearly half an hour, Lin Sicheng finally stood up; Wang Qizhi felt as anxious as if a cat were scratching his heart.

He gave Ye Anning a look, and Ye Anning understood in a second.

Lin Sicheng saw it too; once outside the door, he smiled: "Teacher must be curious about what Tang Sijiang's words meant?"

"Actually, it means exactly what Teacher thinks it means!"

Ye Anning was stunned, her eyes slowly widening.

"Sister Anning, do you remember the five kilns in Shanxi?"

Of course she remembered; Ye Anning had gone there personally, following Lin Sicheng over mountains and across rivers, and had lived in cave dwellings and even tents with Lin Sicheng.

But the two things were different!

In Shanxi, it was about surveying kiln sites and researching ancient porcelain. These were Lin Sicheng's strengths, and his professional level was far higher than everyone else's.

But this time it was about researching instrument technology, and even biomedical technology; Lin Sicheng hadn't even come into contact with it, let alone understood it.

So, how could he take this on?

Furthermore, whether results could be researched in the end, how slim the hope of success was, and how much would be left in Lin Sicheng's hands————

These were all still early, and not worth mentioning yet. Just looking at the current stage: where would the people come from?

Ye Anning thought for a moment: "My uncle is probably worried about whether you can hold your own against these professors, these Doctors, and these Experts who are about to arrive?"

Lin Sicheng remained silent: it was indeed not easy to handle.

Leading technical research is the same principle as leading troops: if your military quality isn't solid and your combat record isn't impressive, the people below won't obey you. Because they are afraid that after going to the battlefield, you will get them all killed.

Doing technology won't cost lives, but it will waste time, waste energy, and even waste tens of billions in funds.

To be selfish: you are a layman who doesn't know a thing, what if you give random orders during the research process?

The result would be that not a single hair could be researched.

The point is also: this process is not for a day or two, but for a full five years. If I spend five years here without getting a Level One promotion in qualifications, why should I waste my time with you?

And how many five years does a person have in their life?

But if Lin Sicheng were to give up, that would be impossible.

If he had some awareness of promoting the spirit and exerting social value before the negotiations, then from the moment the negotiations succeeded, Lin Sicheng had a new idea:

After working so hard for so long, even risking his own life, just to make wedding clothes for others?

No matter what, he had to give it a shot, even if it meant smashing pots and selling iron————

He let out a breath: "Sister Anning, I want to try!"

Ye Anning's eyes brightened: Lin Sicheng rarely had such a solemn expression, and rarely used such a tone!

It showed how great his determination was.

"Lin Sicheng, I support you————" Ye Anning nodded heavily, "As for my uncle, he actually isn't worrying blindly————"

"

Lin Sicheng smiled: "I know!"

It was precisely because he was worried about him that Wang Qizhi would offer reminders at every moment. And after offering those reminders, no matter what decision Lin Sicheng made, he would do his utmost to support him.

It had always been this way.

It was not that Lin Sicheng did not know what was good for him; he was very clear about how rare it was to have such a mentor by his side who could remain clear-headed at all times and was completely trustworthy.

This was not being short-sighted; this was treating him like family—

Nothing more was said, and after just a few minutes, the two continued to toast.

Those who could drink had a glass, and those who could not made a gesture with tea, but regardless of who it was, Lin Sicheng drained his glass every single time.

Ye Anning was secretly startled: twenty tables, that meant nearly two hundred people. Even at one tael per person, that would be twenty catties. If swapped for beer,

that would be twenty bottles.

Yet Lin Sicheng's face was not red and he was not panting; he did not look like he had consumed a drop of alcohol.

The key was that he had not gone to the restroom from start to finish, so just how good must his kidneys be?

Thinking this over secretly, he arrived once more at the table where He Youhan was sitting.

He had already toasted them before, and it was the first table he had toasted, so Lin Sicheng was here this time to keep them company.

The atmosphere was very good, at least it looked very good; both sides were chatting and laughing, harmonious and happy.

Lin Sicheng expressed sufficient respect, and He Youhan also released ample goodwill.

But both men knew clearly in their hearts: the two were rivals, and the friendliness was only temporary, or perhaps even just superficial.

It was not until the banquet ended that He Youhan remained until the very last.

Only after Lin Sicheng had finished seeing off the guests did he bid farewell.

"General Manager Lin, thank you for your hospitality!"

"You are too kind, General Manager He."

The two hands clasped together, touching and then parting instantly.

He Youhan pointed to Sun Jingzhou beside him: "General Manager Lin might not believe it, but I also enjoy collecting. Coming to the Mainland this time, one reason is for the technical Research Center we are jointly establishing. Secondly, I also wanted to see if I could unearth a few good items."

"I was lucky, and thanks to the discerning eyes of Mr. Sun, I managed to unearth a few treasures. I had originally intended to have Mr. Sun contact old acquaintances and find a few Experts to take a look. Since General Manager Lin's Center has opened, I won't trouble two masters for one task: whenever you have time, please take a look and provide your appraisal, and we can exchange ideas while we're at it."

Looking at He Youhan's face, which was different from that of the locals, Lin Sicheng felt for the first time: how could words like "take a look" and "exchange ideas" sound so strange?

Subconsciously, he thought back to the morning, when he had just met He Youhan and Sun Henian. At the time, he had even jokingly thought:

One was an executive president jointly appointed by six foreign companies, and the other was an Appraisal Master whose appraisal techniques had reached perfection and who had once stirred up the Wind. They couldn't possibly have come here just to attend the opening of his newly opened Center, could they?

He had not expected his words to become a prophecy: they really had come to attend his opening?

With these thoughts turning in his mind, Lin Sicheng smiled: "General Manager He, it would be my honor. Whenever you have time, I am available—"

"Good, it's a deal!" He Youhan nodded, "Then let's make it tomorrow!"