Upon hearing Lin You’s words, He Peng, who had remained silent since entering the room except to introduce his name, suddenly spoke up.
“Not high at all. For so many years, it’s always been our technology trickling down to the private sector. Now that we finally have private sector technology feeding back to us, we must set a good example—you’re that example. So take the money without worry.”
“Alright.” Only after hearing this did Lin You feel reassured enough to agree.
Only if he accepted this money without hesitation would future individuals be more inclined to share their technologies.
“Anything else?” Lin You asked after signing the documents.
“Yes, there’s also a house being awarded to you. While you don’t have to move in immediately, we recommend relocating as soon as possible—ideally packing your important belongings tonight.” Lu Wei’s words stunned Lin You.
“Wait, really? You get a house just for patenting something?”
“Of course not just for patenting. But for major technological breakthroughs that significantly contribute to Great Xia’s development—yes. It’s a long-standing policy. Though, since the property’s location is somewhat special, it can’t be bought or sold externally.”
“That’s perfect! I was just thinking my current place is way too small—hard to get anything done. But why the rush to move tonight?”
Lu Wei wore an amused expression. “Why don’t you take a look outside your neighborhood?”
Seeing his face, Lin You had a vague premonition. Could it be..?
He stepped outside and looked toward the neighborhood entrance. A dense crowd had gathered outside, held back by barriers.
He could understand those with cameras or phones recording, but others stood empty-handed, silent, just staring intently at his floor. He had no idea what they wanted.
Taking an instinctive step back, he immediately understood—this place was no longer livable.
“Moving! Right now! You came by car, right?”
Lu Wei smiled. “The movers are downstairs. Pack your essentials—we’ll help carry them. The rest will be packed overnight and delivered tomorrow morning. Don’t worry, they’re professionals; nothing will be missed.”
Lin You turned and began packing immediately.
He Peng left first with the technical documents. Lin You could easily guess many people would lose sleep over those files tonight.
Lu Wei and Yue Pengju helped Lin You box up his computers, VR equipment, and various disassembled devices before escorting him downstairs.
They avoided the main entrance, exiting directly through the underground garage.
Lin You left without hesitation—he’d only lived here less than a week anyway, most of which was spent buried in the virtual world. He felt no attachment.
As Yue Pengju drove, Lin You sat in back, holding his phone camera to the window so he and Xiaomeng could admire Xiajing’s sea of lights together.
*Buzz—* His phone vibrated.
A note automatically opened onscreen: “Master, are we getting our own home too?”
With Lu Wei beside him, Lin You typed beneath it: Yes, and Xiaomeng’s big house is coming soon too.
*Buzz—* ‘Yay! A supercomputer!’
‘No yaying!’
*Buzz—* ‘No no-yaying!’
*Ahem.* Lu Wei coughed, interrupting their exchange.
“What is it, Director Lu?” Lin You turned to him.
“Two more things to discuss while we’re en route—won’t delay your rest later.”
“What things?”
“First, Yue Pengju will handle your security for the next six months.”
“Security?” Lin You was surprised—he’d been too focused on tech to consider this.
“Honestly not strictly necessary. The country’s peaceful, and your tech won’t directly impact strategic balance, so risks are minimal. Don’t worry.” Lu Wei reassured him.
“Sounds good to me.” Free security? Why refuse?
“The last matter’s simpler. You’re starting a company, right? We have support policies for high-level researchers—the more exceptional the talent, the better the benefits.
Given your extraordinary achievements and preference for commercial development over institutional research, we’ll streamline procedures and arrange substantial interest-free bank loans.”
“How substantial?” Lin You was genuinely delighted—startup funds were his biggest headache.
He’d even considered taking pre-orders to finance production, imagining how companies like NetDragon would crucify him for it. Yet without that, what could he produce with just the 10 million advance? Users would accuse him of half-hearted efforts.
With sufficient interest-free loans, all problems would vanish.
“The bank will discuss specifics, but given VR’s market potential, likely no less than 100 million.”
Perfect. Lin You nodded—with good cost control, 100 million could produce nearly 20,000 units.
The car traveled considerable distance before reaching its destination: a non-commercial residential complex in the southern district. The gate guard stood with military-perfect posture, gaze sharp.
Lin You eyed Lu Wei skeptically: “That’s really a security guard?”
“Really.” Lu Wei nodded. “Retired last month.”
Sure, whatever you say. Lin You followed Lu Wei to his new home.
The moment he entered, Lin You froze.
He’d assumed a free government apartment might be 100 square meters—decent as temporary housing until he could afford better.
But the expansive space before him dwarfed expectations: four bedrooms, three studies, two parlors, a sizable storage room, even maid’s quarters! Easily over 300 square meters!
He’d never seen such luxury—in his past life, he’d only glimpsed mansions in videos. To actually live in one? In Xiajing’s hyper-expensive market, this place might cost 30 million!
And it’s mine? From today, I’m living large?
Instantly, Lin You abandoned any thought of buying elsewhere—only a fool would spend millions when this was free. Lu Wei said little, just set down the equipment, left contact details, and departed.
Yue Pengju, however, opened the adjacent unit’s door..
It was a two-residence-per-floor layout—Lin You got one unit, Yue Pengju the other. Lin You gaped.
Yue Pengju explained this was for security convenience—he’d only reside here while protecting Lin You.
After seeing them off, Lin You hastily set up his equipment—not because he planned late-night work, but to avoid Xiaomeng’s wrath. Without computer support, relying solely on his phone slowed even her Lingxi gossip-browsing.
Finished, he recorded a 10-second video for his fan group:
“Just arrived in Xiajing via private ride.”
“Teachers always said ‘books hold golden houses’—so true! Case in point: just got assigned this place. Moral? Listen to your teachers—study hard!”
Ignoring the instant uproar in the group, he showered and slept.
From today onward—I’m a homeowner!
Rest well. Tomorrow, I’ll sweet-talk that banker into not just showering me with money, but thanking me for it! Keep reading, friends! Please—this really matters to me!
(End of Chapter)