Chapter 1620: Sanhe Crisis

A "Gao Bridge" is simply a bridge that is both tall and large.

Li Li Xuewu personally escorted Gao Gao Yaqin downstairs; she had truly just been passing by and had no intention of lingering.

Some matters were inconvenient to discuss over the phone, so the two chatted for over an hour, essentially reaching a basic consensus.

Gao Gao Yaqin still wanted to advise him to exercise some restraint, but Li Li Xuewu's response was that he hadn't even started yet.

"I heard the group headquarters' gymnasium has been built with great grandeur, with a total construction area of nearly ten thousand square meters."

Zhang Enyuan, walking beside him, smiled as he relayed the new information Gao Gao Yaqin had brought, which he already knew.

"It's a comprehensive eco-industrial zone, after all."

Li Li Xuewu stated calmly, "Healthcare, commerce, education, livability, and cultural development are all included."

He stepped up the stairs and emphasized, "To build a modern industry, we must squarely face three issues."

"First is talent cultivation; an industrial enterprise without talent is like building a house on flat ground—it will collapse sooner or later."

"Second is technological innovation; neglecting changes in production technology is equivalent to slow suicide."

"Finally, there is corporate culture."

Li Li Xuewu pointed vaguely with his finger and said, "A healthy physique, a healthy environment, and a healthy culture."

"Only by achieving these points can we realize the long-term goal of advancing the modernization process of industrial enterprises."

"You haven't mentioned organizational construction yet."

After hearing him finish, Zhang Enyuan reminded him as they reached the third floor, "This point is even more important."

"Indeed—" Li Li Xuewu nodded slowly, looking at Zhang Enyuan with a thoughtful expression, and said, "We cannot neglect organizational construction."

"But..." He smiled again, continued walking toward his office, and only after a while said, "Let's take it slow; eventually, the rain will pass and the sky will clear."

Zhang Enyuan did not pick up the thread, because whether he understood the meaning behind those words or not, he should not express it, especially since the leader had no intention of discussing it further.

"Regarding Yu Zhe, whom you asked me to keep an eye on, he has been living quite comfortably lately."

"Is that so—" Li Li Xuewu smiled as he sat behind his desk, picking up some documents while asking, "He hasn't encountered any trouble, has he?"

"Flying under your banner, what trouble could he possibly encounter? It's just..." Zhang Enyuan hesitated for a moment, but seeing the leader look up at him, he still reported, "He and that Zhang Meili have gone a bit too far..."

"Hmm?" Li Li Xuewu frowned slightly and asked, "What happened?"

"It must also be said that Zhang Meili herself has problems."

Zhang Enyuan paused, then explained, "The two of them were doing that thing, and it seems Zhang Meili's spouse walked in on them; I don't know how they talked it out, but the three of them ended up doing that thing together..."

"Go tell him to rein himself in; he wasn't sent here to act carefree." Li Li Xuewu, not wanting to listen further for fear of soiling his ears, waved his hand to signal Zhang Enyuan to handle the matter.

Zhang Enyuan was also headache-inducingly troubled; he really had no patience to deal with Yu Zhe, but he could not ignore the leader's instructions.

That fellow Yu Zhe was truly unreliable; these past few days in Steel City, he had been enjoying unlimited glory and spending money like dirt.

No one knew where the money in his pockets came from, but anyway, he visited restaurants every day, with wine and meat at every meal.

The welfare system of the Red Steel Group was very good, but certainly not good enough to allow employees to eat meat every single day.

With him eating like this, it would be strange if he didn't attract attention; some quick-witted young workers had already latched onto him.

Just by looking at the wine and meat on the table, they could put aside their shame to call him Director Yu, and some even adopted a jianghu style, calling him Brother Yu.

Among these people, the one with the closest relationship to Yu Zhe was Sun Ming, the grand-nephew of Jia Yun from the Production Management Section.

To put it this way, the two of them gathering together now could only be described as birds of a feather or snakes and rats sharing the same nest; in short, there were no good words for it.

However, since they were merely gathering to eat and drink, others truly did not know what they were actually doing.

Even those few who tagged along to mooch meals and drinks did not know what Yu Zhe intended to do upon his return.

Surely it wasn't just for Zhang Meili?

Nevertheless, during these days when Yu Zhe hosted banquets, Zhang Meili attended every single one without fail; she was present at every meal, and when the banquet ended, she wasn't seen leaving, definitely waiting for Yu Zhe until the very end.

The pair appeared together constantly; those who saw them and had a close relationship mostly made teasing remarks, while those with average relations merely watched the spectacle in their hearts, pretending ignorance with their mouths.

Yu Zhe was already being excessively flashy this time, and Zhang Meili's reputation wasn't very good to begin with; it would be strange if nothing happened.

Zhang Meili's spouse had actually known long ago that he was wearing a vast green grassland on his head, but knowing is one thing; being unable to witness it with one's own eyes—who could endure that?

Anyway, that was how the rumors spread; after that day, no one saw Yu Zhe get beaten, nor did anyone see Zhang Meili get beaten.

Instead, Zhang Meili's spouse started hovering behind Yu Zhe, making the relationship between the three appear bewilderingly complex.

Sometimes one could even see Zhang Meili holding Yu Zhe's arm as she walked in front, while Zhang Meili's spouse followed behind smiling, acting as if it were no big deal at all.

Whenever anyone made a joke, Zhang Meili's spouse would definitely emphasize that Yu Zhe and Zhang Meili were sworn siblings.

Good heavens, what an invincible excuse!

With certification from the husband, Zhang Meili became even more arrogant, fully assuming the role of Yu Zhe's sworn older sister.

But anyone who gathered around them knew exactly what kind of "older sister" this sworn sister really was.

It was truly a huge joke; everyone was very curious and eagerly awaited to see what kind of magic Yu Zhe possessed that could make the Zhang Meili couple obey his every word.

Others might not know, but Sun Ming, who was already so close to Yu Zhe that they shared a single pair of trousers, certainly knew.

Sun Ming had even made such a joke at the drinking table, claiming he was the matchmaker for Yu Zhe and Zhang Meili, and even asked the pair to toast him; anyway, it was quite lively.

It was precisely by relying on this complex relationship that the bond between Sun Ming and Yu Zhe had long since sublimated from fair-weather friendship into intimate brotherhood.

Sun Ming and Yu Zhe huddled together researching for over a week before taking Zhang Meili, who had requested leave, on a trip to Camp City.

In less than a week, these few returned with a vengeance; when everyone looked at Sun Ming again, the look in the fellow's eyes had changed.

It was hard to describe, but his eyes were definitely wide open, even somewhat bloodshot, as if he were excited to an excessive degree.

Who knew what scheme they were hatching in their gourds; everyone only cared about where Yu Zhe's money came from, or about the "love reality show" between Yu Zhe and the Zhang Meili couple.

This drama was simply too entertaining; in an era lacking entertainment, having a few such clowns was more interesting than watching a movie, serving as fodder for after-meal conversation, with some gossip-loving couples even discussing this matter until the wee hours of the morning.

Yu Zhe had become famous, especially after high-profilely buying Zhang Meili an imported watch; those "good older sisters" from before could no longer maintain their reserve and flocked to him one after another.

Previously, they had hesitated, after all, Yu Zhe's return this time was too high-profile, and he had actively sought out Zhang Meili.

Everyone was middle-aged; those matters had been talked to death in the office; surely they couldn't just rush up to him the moment Yu Zhe returned, could they?

They were waiting, waiting for Yu Zhe to seek them out on his own initiative.

But now they could wait no longer; if they waited any longer, all the good things would be snatched away by that vixen Zhang Meili.

Yu Zhe's sudden wealth had made countless people green with envy, and just as many had actively curried favor and asked questions.

Yet his lips remained tightly sealed; even Zhang Meili had become a target for their inquiries and investigations.

There must be a way to make money; otherwise, why had Sun Ming disappeared after returning from Yingcheng?

The more they questioned Yu Zhe, the more cautious he became; the more they failed to detect anything, the more anxious they grew, with some even offering themselves up at his door.

After being warned by Zhang Enyuan, Yu Zhe knew that acting was just acting; if he botched the performance, he himself would end up trapped inside, and the closer it came to now, the more afraid he felt.

This scheme was too terrifying; his fear of Li Li Xuewu had deepened by more than one level.

Now he was acting entirely according to Li Li Xuewu's instructions, even making a show of spending money recklessly.

Sun Ming's disappearance was merely the final hesitation before taking the bait; he was waiting, and this facade had to be maintained.

It was not until mid-September, when Li Li Xuewu returned to Jingcheng to attend the opening ceremony of the exhibition and sales fair, that Sun Ming appeared once again.

This time he was much more cautious; he actively invited Yu Zhe to a meal, saying he wanted to introduce him to someone.

"Why should we two brothers stand on ceremony?"

Yu Zhe wore a clean white shirt, a black belt, black trousers, and black leather shoes.

Just from this outfit alone, his style was identical to Li Li Xuewu's; the most eye-catching items were the imported watch on his wrist and the high-end handbag he carried in his hand.

Sun Ming dared to swear that apart from seeing one at Li Li Xuewu's place, he had never seen anyone in Gangcheng use such a fine bag.

However, this also indirectly proved Yu Zhe's position with Li Li Xuewu; he was someone who could be completely trusted.

"If you want to eat something good, let's go to the Xiaoshitang at Tuanjie Guesthouse; I've got money saved there."

Yu Zhe arrogantly flicked the watch on his wrist, strode into the restaurant with his face turned skyward, glanced around, yet found nothing particularly remarkable.

Sun Ming knew he spent money lavishly and put on an air of self-satisfaction, so he didn't pay it much mind.

At this moment, he smiled and emphasized, "I said I'm treating, so I'm treating; besides, today isn't about the food."

He leaned close to Yu Zhe and whispered a reminder, "I want to take you to meet my second uncle-by-marriage."

"Your second uncle-by-marriage? Who is that?"

Yu Zhe feigned ignorance, asking in a bewildered manner, "Why do I need to meet him?"

"Ai—" Sun Ming reminded him with amusement, "Didn't I tell you before? My second uncle-by-marriage is also at the Metallurgy Factory; Jia Yun from the Production Section, don't you know him?"

"Know him? Oh, I remember now!"

Yu Zhe slapped his forehead, explaining helplessly, "These past few days have worn me out completely; I haven't had a single moment of clarity, day and night without rest."

"That's true, hehehe—" Sun Ming looked at him with a wicked smile; as they walked upstairs, he even reminded him to take care of his health, noting that Zhang Meili looked like no easy opponent.

"You don't understand—" Yu Zhe touched Sun Ming's arm meaningfully, raised his eyebrows with a wicked smile, and said, "Later I'll introduce you to an older sister; then you'll know how good an older sister can be."

"Hahaha—" Sun Ming nodded with a laugh, saying, "Good, I have much to learn from you."

In truth, his heart held nothing but contempt; a piece of goods Li Kezhang Meili could rightly be called a beef burger, so what was there to crave? He only thought Yu Zhe was a fool.

But who could blame the lad for having connections to make money? Hanging around the Honggang Industrial Park, relying on his second uncle-by-marriage's relations, he was already assured of food and clothing.

However, who, once assured of food and clothing, would be content with mediocrity? Could he not achieve great wealth and honor? Fine clothes and jade delicacies?

"Please, my second uncle-by-marriage is waiting."

"Is that so—" Yu Zhe was all talk; although he had spoken such words downstairs, upon pushing open the private room door, he warmly took the initiative to greet, "Section Chief Jia, hello."

"Ai—" Jia Yun smiled and waved his hand, saying, "We are all colleagues; besides, you and Sun Ming are so close, there's no need to be so formal."

"Then I'll just call you Second Uncle-by-marriage—"

Yu Zhe smiled, shook the other man's hand, and turned to Sun Ming to say, "Sun Ming and I are iron-clad; I've never seen such a righteous good brother."

"Hehehe—" In front of his second uncle-by-marriage, Sun Ming remained very low-key, merely smiling without speaking.

Jia Yun smiled, glanced at the two young men, nodded, and said, "Young people should make more good friends; since you are of similar age, you must support and help each other."

"That is certain—" Yu Zhe feared only that he couldn't beat his chest enough to guarantee it; he even wanted to swear oaths to thank Sun Ming for his righteousness and express his own intentions.

"I heard from Sun Ming." Jia Yun pulled him to sit at the dining table, nodded, and asked with slight caution, "How certain are you about this matter?"

"What do you mean by that..." Yu Zhe looked at him, then turned to Sun Ming and said, "Didn't Sun Ming explain our trip to Yingcheng to you?"

"He explained it." Only now did Sun Ming open his mouth to explain, "My second uncle-by-marriage is still worried about me."

He poured wine for Yu Zhe and emphasized very politely, "But I said, we are good brothers; I trust you completely, after all, I saw it all with my own eyes."

"You didn't tell Second Uncle-by-marriage about my warnings, did you?"

Yu Zhe, however, looked very seriously at Jia Yun and said, "I made it clear to Sun Ming that everything carries risk; even eating can cause one to choke."

"That is true—" Jia Yun had been observing him all along, verbally echoing his words.

"Especially for those who venture out to sea; the winds are urgent and the waves are huge; I am no immortal, so I dare not say everything will be auspicious."

Yu Zhe pinched his wine cup and emphasized, "I can only say that there is money for everyone to earn; after all, I lack manpower."

He raised his cup to toast Jia Yun, saying, "Speaking of finding people, in Jingcheng one could grab a handful at random, but I don't trust those people; I want to find someone solid and real."

When he said this, he deliberately glanced at Sun Ming, prompting Sun Ming, ready to die for a soulmate, to down his cup of wine in one gulp.

Jia Yun, however, continued to look at him with suspicion, waiting for him to continue explaining.

"What I mean is, Sun Ming has the people, and I have the channels and connections; with us two brothers united, our sharpness can cut through metal."

Yu Zhe patted Sun Ming's hand and looked confidently at Jia Yun, saying, "Money can never be earned to the end, but good brothers last a lifetime."

An old hand like Jia Yun naturally did not believe these words of his, but Sun Ming was becoming somewhat intoxicated.

Having already downed two cups of wine, if this continued, he would be able to drag Yu Zhe into swearing brotherhood.

"This channel and connection you speak of..."

Jia Yun asked hesitantly, "May I presumptuously ask, is it Secretary-General Li?"

"Your question is far too presumptuous!"

Yu Zhe's expression changed; he frowned slightly, staring into Jia Yun's eyes and emphasizing as if drunk, "The channels are mine, the connections are mine too. Don't say wild things."

Jia Yun was stunned by his rebuttal. Actually, he still wanted to ask if he could meet Li Li Xuewu privately, at least to confirm this matter.

He didn't expect Yu Zhe's reaction to be so strong, but thinking about it, it was normal. If Li Li Xuewu had made Yu Zhe a front man, he naturally wouldn't admit to such a relationship.

Now he actually believed it. Without Li Li Xuewu's connections, where would a mere driver get the connections to make such quick money?

"Yu Zhe is my good brother." At this moment, Sun Ming spoke up. Drunk, he put his arm around Yu Zhe's shoulder and emphasized, "We trust each other."

"Good brothers—" Yu Zhe, also moved, patted his shoulder, raised his wine glass, and drained it in one gulp.

The two seemed to hit it off and started drinking heavily, one cup for you, one cup for me, making Jia Yun feel both amused and helpless.

Only after they were full of food and wine did they send Yu Zhe off. On the way home, Jia Yun asked the slightly sober Sun Ming why their relationship was so good.

He didn't believe Sun Ming's answer, because he couldn't imagine at all why Yu Zhe would thank Sun Ming so much for a woman. Was it necessary?

"You might not understand, or perhaps you can't feel his perversion—"

Sun Ming's tongue was a bit thick from drinking, but his mind was still clear. Leaning back in the seat, he tried to explain, "He told me the fun inside is endless, delightful."

"Heh—" Jia Yun was amused by him and said disdainfully, "You've never seen the world."

"Him? Perverse—" Sun Ming twisted his body, his stomach uncomfortable from drinking too much.

He continued explaining, "After he returned to Jingcheng, he called me twice, just to ask about Zhang Meili."

"He asked me to keep an eye on her, saying Zhang Meili's husband often beats her, and to notify him if anything happened."

"Just because of that?" Jia Yun curled his lip and asked, "So Yu Zhe is living at Zhang Meili's house now?"

"That's right—" Sun Ming said with a laugh, "The three of them are living well together."

"Weirdo—" Jia Yun asked with a smile, "What big favor did you do for him?"

"Really." Sun Ming looked at his second uncle-in-law and explained, "Once, when Zhang Meili got beaten, I went to scare her husband. The other time, Zhang Meili found a new lover, and I went to scare Zhang Meili."

"..." Jia Yun was quite speechless. What kind of things did his cheap nephew go and do?

In the past, he would have scolded him, but this time was different. Precisely because of Sun Ming's meddling, the foolish Yu Zhe returned the favor.

"Do you think everything he said is true?"

Jia Yun still asked hesitantly, "Did you really see that kind of fleet at the port?"

"I saw it with my own eyes." Sun Ming emphasized very seriously, "I even saw the people on the ship greeting him. The relationship wasn't just close; there was even a sense of respect."

He looked at his second uncle-in-law and explained, "It wasn't just one ship; I saw quite a few ships."

"Whose are they?" Jia Yun frowned and asked, "If they have ships, why do they still need to find you to cooperate?"

"He is managing things for others now. This time, he found me because he wants to do it himself, hitching a ride to make money."

Sun Ming hesitated and asked, "Second uncle-in-law, tell me, can we do this? If you say no, I'll tell him and stop worrying about it."

"We can do it, we can do it..." Jia Yun hesitated for a moment, sighed, and said, "It's just that the risk feels a bit high. If only we could meet Li Li Xuewu."

"Impossible—" Sun Ming, having a bit of cleverness, shook his head and said, "Even if we speak privately, Yu Zhe never mentions Li Li Xuewu's name."

"Hmm, very normal." Jia Yun nodded and said, "If he mentioned it, I wouldn't trust him."

"That's exactly what I mean." Sun Ming said seriously, "Since he dares to do it, I'm just providing people and effort. Going to Jingcheng to see that connection is acceptable."

"Be cautious." Jia Yun reminded him, "If anything seems wrong, come back immediately."

He glanced at his nephew and said, "I can help you secure the goods here, but don't get yourself trapped."

"Thank you, second uncle-in-law! I will be careful!"

Sun Ming said excitedly, "With your support, I feel reassured. I'll split half the profits from this with you."

"Heh—rascal—" Jia Yun looked at him with a smile and said with feigned displeasure, "You're saying that to me?"

"That won't do. Without you, I wouldn't dare do it."

Sun Ming said ingratiatingly, "Without your support, I couldn't do it even if I wanted to, right?"

"Hehehe—" Jia Yun shook his head with a laugh, accepted the flattery, and asked casually, "What has your father been doing lately? Not at home?"

Sun Ming's expression stiffened, then he gave a dry laugh and said, "He said he went inside the pass to procure goods and won't be back for another half month."

He knew very well why his second uncle-in-law asked this, because when he was young, he had personally seen this second uncle-in-law at his house...

Actually, there were rumors. Some people said they saw Jia Yun's bicycle always parked at their front gate when his father was away on business.

What about himself?

He hadn't noticed it when he was young, but once he accidentally stumbled upon it, and the whole person felt terrible.

But his mother scared him, and his second uncle-in-law coaxed him, so this matter was buried deep.

Speaking of it, his second uncle-in-law was truly good to him, no worse than a real son.

His current freedom and ease were all thanks to his second uncle-in-law's support and help, so this secret remained hidden in his heart.

Sometimes he would even look in the mirror, comparing whether he looked like his second uncle-in-law.

But after so many years, he had long grown accustomed to this silence. Even today, with his wish fulfilled, he certainly wouldn't meddle.

The next day, he enthusiastically found the just-sobered Yu Zhe and proposed the plan to return to Jingcheng together.

Yu Zhe had been waiting for him, but pretended to be reluctant and went out to play with Zhang Meili for a whole day.

On the third day, he boarded the train back to Jingcheng, carrying Zhang Meili's reluctance, her husband's welcome to visit again, and the ambitious Sun Ming.

He didn't know that this half-month of fantastical experiences and spending money like water had already attracted the attention of the Group's Investigation Team, who were even now watching them.

Actually, even if Yu Zhe knew, he wouldn't care. He didn't know Li Li Xuewu's full calculations, but he knew this brother-in-law never missed a trick and wouldn't cheat him.

So he was more carefree than anyone else, without a single burden or pressure, acting out this entire play solely on Zhang Meili's devoted contribution.

Of course, this was only the first half.

After returning to Jingcheng, he still had to introduce Sun Ming to Gu Cangping Er, but the second half would be much simpler.

Yu Zhe couldn't be too arrogant at his own doorstep; instead, he had to be cautious and careful, letting Sun Ming witness the pressure.

Away from Jia Yun, Sun Ming was just a lamb waiting to be slaughtered, having no power to fight back against Li Li Xuewu's setup.

Yu Zhe was about to leave the stage; he had also witnessed another side of Zhang Meili, as well as the complexity of the human heart.

Returning this time made him feel much clearer, though half a month of continuous feasting and nightly revelry had somewhat depleted his constitution—perhaps the only loss in this round.

"So this is a crystal element?"

Li Li Huai De took the magnifying glass handed over by his secretary and examined it intently, yet he could not see anything particularly miraculous about it.

Actually, no magnifying glass was needed; the naked eye could see it clearly enough, it was just that Old Li's eyesight had grown dim.

He glanced back at Li Li Xuewu, raised an eyebrow, implying that this project seemed like a loss.

Li Li Xuewu smiled amusingly, looked at Professor Zhang standing beside Peter, and asked, "Introduce your research achievements to Director Li."

"Yes, Secretary-General." Professor Zhang was actually somewhat dull-witted, a typical research-oriented talent.

The words tumbling from his mouth were all technical jargon, leaving Li Li Huai De and the others who had come to investigate completely baffled.

Li Li Xuewu had read many books, so he could understand a little bit, though even he was struggling to follow.

After the introduction concluded, Li Li Huai De frowned, pointed at the boxed crystal element, and asked, "What can this thing do?"

"At its simplest, a timer."

Professor Zhang gestured toward the circuit board arranged on the table and explained further, appearing very profound.

The more Li Li Huai De listened, the more confused he became; eventually, it was as if he were listening to heavenly scripture, and he kept glancing frequently at Li Li Xuewu.

Li Li Xuewu understood his meaning but did not immediately interrupt Professor Zhang; instead, he waited until the other party finished introducing, then spoke to Peter in English, asking him to demonstrate the uses of this crystal element.

Peter naturally understood what sort of goods leaders were.

During his time at the research institute in East Germany, what he did most often was welcome inspections, showing off curiosities and novelties to those leaders.

Just as everyone was dumbfounded, not knowing what Li Li Xuewu had said, Peter opened a case revealing dense networks of circuits and components inside.

Click—

He flipped a switch, pointed to several components embedded in the circuit board, and gave an explanation.

Li Li Xuewu, acting as translator, explained simultaneously; with the two cooperating, they finally managed to clarify the principle of the crystal element.

Similarly, Peter focused on introducing the various uses of several types of crystal elements, even outlining future prospects.

On the faces of Li Li Huai De and the other accompanying personnel, expressions of understanding finally appeared, along with smiles.

"This tiny thing, is it really so miraculous?"

Old Li picked up the magnifying glass once again to examine it carefully, though he still could not make out anything.

"Our televisions and radios use this very technology," Li Li Xuewu pointed at the circuit board and explained to him: "With this technology, the day we achieve electronic control freedom is not far off."

"Hahaha—" Li Li Huai De's hearty laughter swept away the oppressive atmosphere that had just filled the laboratory.

"That's enough; it hasn't even been a year yet."

He put down the magnifying glass, looked at Peter and the others, nodded, and said, "You've worked hard; thank you for your contributions to the Red Steel Group."

"No hardship at all; it is all my duty."

With Li Li Xuewu's assistance, Peter happily expressed his respect to Li Li Huai De and also proclaimed his loyalty.

Listening to him speak about his treatment and life here, as well as the joyful working atmosphere, Li Li Huai De's smile never faded, his laughter continued unabated, while the reporters went click-click taking photos.

"Are there any difficulties?"

This was Old Li's strong point: if you let him see achievements, he will let you see sunshine.

Professor Zhang was just about to speak when Li Li Xuewu glared at him, signaling him to shut up.

Old Zhang actually wanted to ask Director Li for money; who would ever think research funding was too little, or fear having too little experimental equipment?

Just as he was hesitating vaguely, Peter, under Li Li Xuewu's signal, spoke up about the current practical difficulties.

This fellow, also hailing from East Germany, understood Li Li Xuewu's eye signal very well; he only spoke pleasant things, yet still highlighted the problems and difficulties.

"The Group's funding this year is not abundant."

Li Li Huai De hesitated for a moment first; seeing the atmosphere on site grow cold, he smiled again, looked at Peter and the others, and said, "But we cannot lack anything when it comes to scientific research, don't you agree, Secretary-General?"

He directed the question at Li Li Xuewu, his intention quite obvious.

Li Li Xuewu smiled and nodded, saying, "You are correct."

"Then I will give you... never mind."

Li Li Huai De paused his previous statement, turned to ask a quick question to the accompanying financial staff, and then said to Peter and the others, "It is already the fourth quarter; there is still some remaining budget for scientific research expenses, so let's give it all to you: three million."

"Thank you, Director Li!"

"Thank you, Leader—"

"Hahaha—"

Li Li Huai De greatly appreciated this approach, especially the respect shown by senior intellectuals wearing white lab coats.

As he walked out of the laboratory, he spoke with considerable emotion: "I truly hope that one day, all our electrical appliances can be fitted with domestically produced cores."

"I believe that day is not far off."

Li Li Xuewu said with a smile: "Our lithography technology lags slightly behind that of the United States, but compared to Japan, it is roughly comparable and not too backward; all that remains is to catch up."

"Mm, nothing can be done without money."

Li Li Huai De hit the nail on the head with one sentence; before getting into the car, he nodded and said, "I remember you saying that crystal elements would be the core technology of future science and industry, correct?"

He asked with some uncertainty: "Does that include automobiles?"

"Of course, absolutely," Li Li Xuewu answered very seriously: "The impact will be very far-reaching."

"Then let's continue pouring money into it." Li Li Huai De breathed a sigh of relief, waved his hand to signal him to get in the car so they could continue chatting.

Li Li Xuewu climbed into the back seat of the Red Flag and explained to him: "The Optoelectronics Research Institute has not yet reached the stage where we truly need to pour money; we still have plenty of time."

"Not necessarily," Li Li Huai De said lightly, looking out the window: "Once we achieve independence in crystal element technology, the factory zone over at Steel City Electronics will have to expand again."

"Although I do not understand this technology, I know that many industries require it, so it must be produced."

He looked at Li Li Xuewu and asked: "You have already made preparations, correct? To handle all the opportunities brought by technological development and unite all resources to seize the initiative."

"I will strive to achieve this."

Li Li Xuewu looked at him seriously, nodded, and said solemnly: "This is my responsibility."

"Mm, I trust you to handle things."

Li Li Huai De nodded, patted his knee, and said: "I'm entrusting Gangcheng to you. Industrial development—every step must continue without pause."

He glanced again at the research institute outside the window, surrounded by tall trees, its scenery quite pleasant.

A year after the Red Star Factory moved out, the old plant area had changed its appearance.

The original walls were largely demolished, and all hazardous buildings and those not on the plan were completely removed.

New buildings and structures, shaped by the experience and artistic creativity of European designers, now carried a scholarly and scientific atmosphere unlike any other of this era.

This place concentrated all of Honggang Group's scientific research, educational, and experimental capabilities.

Supporting service departments had also completed their relocation and reorganization, with roads repaved and repaired.

It now looked more like a large park, with key units hidden within.

There were fewer buildings, but more trees, vast stretches of grass, and even several small lakes dug out.

Of course, these small lakes had special functions, serving scientific research and experimental teaching.

Li Li Xuewu gazed out the window, thinking that in less than ten years, this place would resemble an ecological university town.

If some wild animals began appearing here, it would be even more meaningful.

Three million yuan thrown down—even if tossed into water, it would make a loud splash. The convoy arrived at the exhibition site; word had already spread.

After getting out of the car, Li Li Huai De paid no attention to the stares of others—he was determined to achieve breakthroughs in this high-tech industry as soon as possible, because the higher-ups cared most about this.

High technology always draws focused attention; if during his term Honggang Group could transform from a heavy industry enterprise into a comprehensive group with high-tech characteristics, then in the near future, he would become a star.

A star of industrial management.

"Why are you hiring again?"

Xiang Xiang Jingyu seized the opportunity, found Li Li Xuewu sneaking food at the banquet, and frowned: "What's this three million yuan about?"

"I didn't spend it—why are you coming to me?"

Li Li Xuewu glanced at her and reminded her: "Director Li agreed to it—has nothing to do with me."

"You think I'll believe that?" Xiang Xiang Jingyu glared at him. "Before you came back, he visited other units—why didn't he allocate funds then?"

"You're unfairly blaming me—"

Li Li Xuewu asked, half-angry, half-amused: "What did you just say about hiring?"

"You don't know?" Xiang Xiang Jingyu looked at him and explained: "Director Li just announced plans to recruit optoelectronic technology talent nationwide."

"Don't tell me you didn't know!"

She pointed at Li Li Xuewu and emphasized: "Without you, he'd never have issued such a firm order."

"I really didn't know—I was just accompanying him on his research." Li Li Xuewu feigned innocence, holding up the small cake in his hand. "Want to try this? It's really delicious."

"You're doing this on purpose, aren't you?"

Xiang Xiang Jingyu saw him trying to slip away but dared not chase after him—that would seem too obvious.

Especially at today's reception banquet—so many people were watching. She had to maintain her image.

Letting that bastard leave, she lowered her head, glanced at the small breads on the buffet table, couldn't resist picking one up and taking a bite—it really was delicious.

Hongxing International Hotel: Honggang Group held this reception banquet here to celebrate the successful opening of the import-export trade exhibition.

Attendees included units from across the country that had project or cooperative ties with Honggang Group, units hoping to establish cooperation, and some representatives from foreign enterprises' Beijing offices.

What most highlighted the prestige of this exhibition and reception banquet was the presence of numerous economic attachés from foreign embassies who had been invited to attend.

Honggang Group extensively displayed its industrial achievements and technological results from the past few years.

Similarly, product exhibition zones and peripheral merchandise zones were set up, just as Li Li Xuewu had once designed—vibrant and lively.

Gao Gao Yaqin, along with Dong Dong Wenhua, and Comrade Sha Sha Qizhi led the planning.

Li Li Xuewu hadn't seen the plan, but the scene on-site was excellent—even a cultural troupe performed.

In the automobile zone, all of Honggang Group's vehicle models were displayed, including those from affiliated units.

Most notable were motorcycles and sedans from East Germany, along with several truck models.

The trucks weren't brought by Honggang—they were prototype vehicles developed by Jiqi, who intended to reverse-engineer them and came here to exhibit, creating buzz and advertising in advance.

Besides the automobile zone, there were also electrical equipment zones, weaponry zones, aircraft zones, hardware zones, and more.

The industrial exhibition hall, completed last year, was put to use; some zones were even set up on the front square because larger equipment couldn't fit inside.

The Aircraft Research Institute brought a prototype drone, displayed prominently—impressive-looking, though no one knew it couldn't fly yet.

But many knew Honggang Group had invested heavily in this project, all waiting for a spectacular reveal.

In fact, they didn't know: Honggang Group had actually invested very little in the drone project.

The real investor was Bao Peigang of the Dongcheng Credit Cooperative, who kept standing before the prototype, observing and photographing.

Old Bao had only this one unfulfilled wish—he knew this project might well be a "lifetime project."

Yet he wasn't criticized for it; on the contrary, many leaders viewed the project favorably and held high expectations.

The reason was simple: every project Bao Peigang invested in through Honggang Group had succeeded—even that oddly shaped car, the Tan Tu, was about to enter mass production.

This time, the Tan Tu and the Cruiser made their official debut at the exhibition hall, completely igniting interest in the automotive manufacturing industry.

These weren't prototypes—they were lightweight, modular battlefield vehicles tested in combat, with exceptional functionality.

Inside, a small pile of scattered rocks was stacked; the Tan Tu sat atop them, radiating powerful presence.

Outside, test-drive vehicles were available; many queued to test-drive and ride several new models, with the Tan Tu drawing the most attention.

Because many had never heard of, never seen, what "modular" meant.

Under engineers' guidance and assistance, they even experienced firsthand the process of swapping modules.

Extremely novel—many elderly comrades in their olive-green uniforms came to the scene, first viewing the three helicopter models, then this vehicle, and only finally turning to the weaponry exhibition.

"Congratulations; your exhibition format is very novel and will surely be a great success."

Nakamura Yang Shuji approached with a wine glass in hand, taking the initiative to find Li Li Xuewu and offer his congratulations.

Li Li Xuewu smiled, nodded in return, exchanged a few pleasantries, mainly asking when he had arrived.

Nakamura had come to attend the upcoming Yangcheng Autumn Export Exhibition; the scene over there was larger than this one.

However, with advance publicity, they also wanted to come early to take a look; this small-to-medium-scale exhibition did not imply a low grade, but rather, its professionalism was what made it attractive.

The protagonist was naturally the Red Steel Group, and most of the exhibitors were affiliated enterprises; once a product caught their eye, it was very easy to finalize cooperation intentions.

The Red Steel Group possessed its own export pricing authority and also had its own financial institutions, which was extremely convenient.

Many of the international traders present today had come in groups from Port City and were members of the Andrew Club.

Nakamura had only one thought in coming to find Li Li Xuewu: if negotiations did not commence soon, their cooperative relationship would drift further and further apart until they were completely separated.

He already knew the research progress of the Red Steel Group's Optoelectronics Research Institute and was terrified, foreseeing that the history of Red Steel purchasing crystal units from Sanhe was about to end.

Sanhe must complete negotiations with the Red Steel Group in the shortest possible time to guarantee future cooperative advantages.

Only now did he realize what Li Li Xuewu's purpose had been in delaying the negotiations.