Ch. 261Witness a Miracle! (Part Two)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun conducts an experiment to 'catch' electromagnetic waves using a metal filings detector and standing waves.
  • The experiment successfully demonstrates the existence of electromagnetic waves, with a wavelength of 6.5 × 10^-7m and an oscillation period of approximately 3.3 × 10^-9 seconds.
  • Faraday calculates the frequency of the electromagnetic wave to be around 2.98 × 10^8 Hz, which is remarkably close to the speed of light.

Character Developments

  • Faraday is amazed by Xu Yun's experiment and feels a significant gap between his own knowledge and Xu Yun's. He becomes more determined to learn and understand the principles behind the experiment.
  • Prince Albert shows signs of his future health issues but remains uninvolved in Huaxia affairs, maintaining his strange indifference towards the East.

Significant Themes

  • The power of scientific discovery and its impact on the understanding of the world.
  • The pursuit of knowledge and the humbling experience of realizing the extent of one's own ignorance.
  • The strange behavior of Prince Albert regarding Huaxia affairs.

Character Interactions

  • Faraday and William Weber exchange glances, thinking of the iron filings experiment, which leads them to anticipate Xu Yun's use of a phenomenon to represent the electromagnetic waves.
  • Faraday interacts with Prince Albert, seeking his approval to begin the experiment.
  • Xu Yun hesitates about whether to intervene in Prince Albert's health issues, considering the prince's strange attitude towards Huaxia.
  • Faraday and Wheat collaborate to calculate the frequency of the electromagnetic wave, with Wheat recognizing the result as remarkably close to the speed of light.

Ch. 262Was Electromagnetic Wave Light?

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Faraday realizes that the speed of electromagnetic waves (2.97969 × 10^8 m/s) is almost the same as the speed of light (3 × 10^8 m/s).
  • Faraday, Joule, and others verify that electromagnetic waves exhibit properties similar to light, such as refraction, reflection, and polarization.
  • Faraday concludes that electromagnetic waves are a special type of light.

Character Developments

  • Faraday: Realizes the connection between electromagnetic waves and light, leading to a significant scientific breakthrough.
  • Joule: Initially skeptical, he later accepts the evidence presented and contributes to the verification process.
  • Xu Yun: Orchestrates the experiments successfully, ensuring the accurate measurement and interpretation of data.

Significant Themes

  • The nature of light and electromagnetic waves: The chapter explores the similarities and potential identity of these two phenomena.
  • Scientific discovery and verification: The process of experimentation and data analysis drives the narrative and leads to a significant scientific conclusion.
  • The role of historical figures: The chapter highlights the contributions of real-life scientists like Faraday, Joule, and Wheat, as well as the fictional character Xu Yun.

Character Interactions

  • Faraday and Joule: They work together to verify the properties of electromagnetic waves, with Faraday taking the lead and Joule providing support.
  • Xu Yun and Faraday: Xu Yun guides Faraday through the experiments, ensuring the accuracy of the results and helping him reach the correct conclusion.
  • Xu Yun and Wheat: They collaborate to measure and analyze the data, with Wheat performing the calculations and Xu Yun interpreting the results.

Ch. 263Task Settlement

Summary of the Chapter

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun finally receives the settlement interface for his first stage mission after the opening ceremony.
  • The mission rating is 'Difficult', and the reward is three days of return to reality and a small boost to his AI's growth.
  • The second stage mission is to help Thomson become the president of the Cambridge University Student Union within 179 days.
  • Angus Roman, a key figure in the Newton Society, is expelled from the university and his father is arrested due to corruption charges.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun shows his adaptability and strategic thinking as he accepts the new mission and its implications.
  • Old Tang (Thomson) demonstrates his political acumen and concern for Xu Yun's well-being by bringing him food and discussing the recent events.

Significant Themes

  • The theme of power dynamics is evident in the relationship between William Whewell, Prime, and the Romans.
  • The theme of adaptation and growth is shown as Xu Yun accepts his new mission and its challenges.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun and Old Tang's relationship deepens as they discuss the recent events and Xu Yun prepares a meal for Old Tang.
  • Xu Yun and Wheat's friendship is implied as they live together and share meals.
  • The relationship between William Whewell, Prime, and the Romans is one of manipulation and betrayal, with Prime sacrificing the Romans to protect himself.

Ch. 264Another Invitation Letter

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun receives an invitation to join the Cambridge Apostle Society.
  • The invitation was proposed by Old Tang, Evelyn, and another unknown Apostle.
  • The interview for membership will be held at a banquet, where Xu Yun may face opposition.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun is recognized for his academic achievements and invited to join the prestigious Apostle Society.
  • Old Tang is revealed to have influence within the Apostle Society, as he was one of the proposers for Xu Yun's invitation.

Significant Themes

  • The power and exclusivity of secret societies, as exemplified by the Cambridge Apostle Society.
  • The potential challenges and obstacles Xu Yun might face due to his background and the replication of 'Fat Fish's' achievements.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun interacts with Old Tang, who provides guidance and support for his potential membership in the Apostle Society.
  • Xu Yun and Wheat continue their daily routine, with Wheat assisting Xu Yun in his academic pursuits.

Ch. 265The Second Interviewee

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun meets Bruche, a German exchange student and future composer, who reveals that there are seven interviewees for two Apostle Society recruitment spots.
  • Bruche hints that part of the interview will involve hymns, specifically for those in London.
  • Xu Yun attends his first class on the history of Cambridge University, taught by Professor Gregolin Buck.
  • Xu Yun and Hubert Airy, son of renowned scientist George Biddell Airy, become classmates in the Mathematics department.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun: Shows adaptability and resourcefulness in navigating Cambridge University's social and academic landscape. He forms a tentative alliance with Bruche through the power of Chinese cuisine.
  • Bruche: Reveals his competitive nature and willingness to share information to gain an advantage. He shows respect for Xu Yun's knowledge and offers friendship.
  • Hubert Airy: Shows pride in his father's accomplishments but also understands the challenges his family faces due to his father's reputation. He is friendly and welcoming towards Xu Yun.

Significant Themes

  • Competition and alliances: The Apostle Society's recruitment process fosters competition among interviewees, with Bruche and Xu Yun forming a temporary alliance.
  • Power dynamics: The voting system of the Apostle Society creates opportunities for 'factions' to form, with Old Tang facing some exclusion from the decision-making level.
  • Cultural exchange: Xu Yun's knowledge of Chinese cuisine impresses Bruche, highlighting the power of cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun and Bruche: They form a tentative alliance, with Bruche sharing information about the interview process in exchange for a promise of a meal cooked by Xu Yun.
  • Xu Yun and Hubert Airy: They become classmates and show mutual respect and friendliness towards each other. Hubert Airy shows pride in his father's accomplishments but also understands the challenges his family faces.

Ch. 266The Little Ox's Grave Comes First (72K)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun and Little Ox return to their dorm during a sudden rainstorm.
  • Little Ox receives a book, "Experimental Researches in Electricity," from Mr. Faraday, indicating he's been taken under Faraday's wing.
  • Xu Yun and Old Tang depart for London to attend the Apostle Society's interview gathering at Hyde Park.
  • They visit Westminster Abbey, where Xu Yun pays respects to Geoffrey Chaucer's tomb and learns about the grim fate of Oliver Cromwell's remains.

Character Developments

  • Little Ox: Shows initiative in his studies, receiving a book from Faraday, indicating he's being mentored.
  • Xu Yun: Demonstrates knowledge of history and culture, paying respects to Chaucer and discussing Cromwell's fate with Old Tang.
  • Old Tang: Acts as a knowledgeable guide, sharing historical insights and leading Xu Yun through Westminster Abbey.

Significant Themes

  • Education and Mentorship: Little Ox's connection with Faraday highlights the importance of mentorship in academic growth.
  • History and Legacy: The visit to Westminster Abbey explores the lasting impact of historical figures and the significance of their legacies.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun and Little Ox: Share a moment of camaraderie, with Xu Yun expressing approval of Little Ox's academic pursuits.
  • Xu Yun and Old Tang: Engage in a guided tour, with Old Tang sharing his knowledge of history and Xu Yun demonstrating his own historical understanding.
  • Xu Yun and the Coachman: Have a brief exchange about the increasing cost of living in England, highlighting the economic struggles of the time.

Ch. 267Before One Wave Subsides, Another Rises

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun visits Little Ox's grave in Westminster Abbey, burning special paper money for him.
  • Xu Yun and Old Tang attend an Apostle Society interview banquet at Tauton Cottage in Hyde Park.
  • Xu Yun meets Edward * [Boer] * Stanley, a member of the Apostle Society, mistaking him for the future British Prime Minister.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun shows respect and remembrance for Little Ox, demonstrating his emotional depth.
  • Xu Yun remains cautious and guarded when meeting new people, especially influential figures like Stanley.
  • Old Tang shows his knowledge and connections, acting as a guide and mentor to Xu Yun.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of remembrance and respect for the past, as seen in Xu Yun's visit to Little Ox's grave.
  • The power dynamics and politics within the Apostle Society and British society, hinted at through the interactions with Stanley.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun and Old Tang: Xu Yun seeks Old Tang's guidance and support, while Old Tang acts as a mentor and friend.
  • Xu Yun and Stanley: Xu Yun is initially wary of Stanley due to his mistaken identity, leading to a cautious interaction.
  • The Apostle Society members: The group dynamics and power structures within the society are hinted at through their interactions at the banquet.

Ch. 268The Show Begins (76K)

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun is mistaken for someone else upon entering the room, and a young man, Daniel Bradley, thanks him on behalf of his family.
  • Daniel reveals he is the great-grandson of James Bradley, whose work on the speed of light was recently vindicated by Xu Yun's experiment.
  • Xu Yun meets several members of the Cambridge Apostle Society, including the current president, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, and learns about the society's dynamics and conflicts.
  • Xu Yun discovers that there are six interviewees instead of the expected seven, hinting at an unexpected change in the selection process.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun remains calm and composed despite the unexpected situation and the cold reception from Rossetti.
  • Daniel Bradley is enthusiastic and grateful towards Xu Yun, eager to befriend him.
  • Dante Gabriel Rossetti is aloof and disdainful, showing clear dislike for Xu Yun and Old Tang.
  • Patrick Adam is hostile towards Xu Yun and seems to be against his selection into the Apostle Society.
  • Leopold George Frederick Agar-Olsen is friendly and supportive of Xu Yun's candidacy.
  • Max Christian Friedrich Bruch greets Xu Yun from afar, acknowledging their previous encounter.

Significant Themes

  • The power dynamics and politics within the Cambridge Apostle Society, with Old Tang and Rossetti as main rivals.
  • The importance of reputation and family background in society, as seen through the Bradley family's history and Daniel's eagerness to befriend Xu Yun.
  • The tension between natural sciences and literary cultivation, reflected in the differing views of Old Tang and Rossetti.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun interacts with various members of the Apostle Society, forming initial impressions and alliances.
  • Old Tang, Evelyn, and Xu Yun present a united front against Rossetti and his supporters.
  • Daniel Bradley tries to mediate between Xu Yun and Rossetti, but Rossetti remains cold and dismissive.
  • Patrick Adam openly expresses his disapproval of Xu Yun's candidacy, while Leopold Agar-Olsen is supportive.
  • Max Christian Friedrich Bruch acknowledges Xu Yun's presence, hinting at a potential alliance.

Ch. 269A Sudden Turn of Events! (130,000-Word Update!)

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The Cambridge Apostle Society's annual gathering and interview for new members.
  • The interviewees are required to write a Spenserian sonnet praising Foreign Secretary Henry John Temple within an hour.
  • Xu Yun abstains from the task due to his strong disagreement with Temple's policies.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun demonstrates his principles and integrity by abstaining from the task, even at the risk of losing his chance to join the society.
  • Tennyson shows understanding and respect for Xu Yun's stance, despite disagreeing with it.
  • Bruche remains supportive of Xu Yun, even when others distance themselves.
  • Old Tang's ostracization within the society is hinted at, likely due to his disagreement with the society's direction.

Significant Themes

  • Principles and integrity vs. compromise.
  • The influence of politics on society and personal beliefs.
  • The tension between personal values and group dynamics.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun's interaction with Tennyson shows respect and understanding, despite their differing views.
  • Bruche's support for Xu Yun highlights their growing friendship.
  • The tension between Xu Yun and the other members, particularly the one who calls him a "lowly Easterner," reflects the cultural and political divisions of the time.

Ch. 270Oops, I Didn't Mean To!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun, angered by Harvey Clement's insults, physically confronts him at an Apostle Society gathering.
  • Old Tang (William Thomson) defends Xu Yun and withdraws from the Apostle Society after Clement's provocations.
  • Evelyn also decides to leave the Apostle Society and intentionally breaks a plate on Clement's head.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun: Shows composure and quick thinking in handling the confrontation, demonstrating his emotional maturity beyond his age.
  • Old Tang: Stands up for what he believes in, prioritizing his principles over his membership in the Apostle Society.
  • Evelyn: Shows support for Xu Yun and Old Tang, making a bold decision to leave the society and physically retaliate against Clement.
  • Harvey Clement: Reveals his arrogant and discriminatory nature, provoking both Old Tang and Evelyn to withdraw from the society.

Significant Themes

  • Principles and Integrity: Old Tang and Evelyn prioritize their principles over their membership in the Apostle Society, highlighting the importance of standing up for one's beliefs.
  • Discrimination and Respect: Clement's discriminatory remarks towards Xu Yun and Old Tang underscore the lack of respect and understanding among different cultures and backgrounds.
  • Consequences of Actions: Clement's provocations lead to the withdrawal of two prominent members from the Apostle Society, illustrating the impact of one's words and actions on others.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun and Old Tang: Xu Yun's calm demeanor and Old Tang's quick defense of him lead to a bond between the two, with Old Tang deciding to withdraw from the society in support of Xu Yun.
  • Old Tang and Clement: Their interaction highlights the tension between Clement's discriminatory views and Old Tang's commitment to his principles, ultimately leading to Old Tang's withdrawal from the society.
  • Evelyn and Clement: Evelyn's decision to leave the society and physically retaliate against Clement demonstrates her solidarity with Xu Yun and Old Tang, as well as her disapproval of Clement's behavior.

Ch. 271The Decision That Went Against My Ancestors (10,200 Words!!!)

Key Plot Points

  • Xu Yun, Evelyn, and Old Tang decide to form a new society after leaving the Apostle Society.
  • Xu Yun suggests creating a science-focused society to contend with the Apostle Society on campus.
  • They discuss the society's name, with Old Tang suggesting "Gathering of Heroes Society," Evelyn suggesting "Human Completion Committee," and Xu Yun ultimately deciding on "Ge Wu Society."

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun shows initiative and strategic thinking in forming the new society.
  • Old Tang demonstrates leadership and consideration for the society's name and purpose.
  • Evelyn shows her intelligence and quick wit in suggesting society names.

Significant Themes

  • The struggle between old and new ideas, represented by the Apostle Society and the new society.
  • The importance of science and education in societal progress.
  • The power dynamics within the Apostle Society and the potential influence of the new society.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun, Old Tang, and Evelyn work together to plan the new society, showing camaraderie and mutual respect.
  • Xu Yun and Evelyn engage in playful banter when suggesting society names, showcasing their friendly rivalry.
  • Old Tang acts as a mentor figure, guiding Xu Yun and Evelyn in their decision-making process.

Ch. 272Guo Jing: I Know This Stuff! (10,400 Words!!)

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun visits the Heinrich family, leaving letters for Karl and Jenny.
  • He then goes to University College London, meeting Joseph Lister, and discusses a medical idea with him.
  • Xu Yun plans to recruit new members for the Gezhi Society.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun demonstrates his knowledge and understanding of modern medicine, impressing Lister.
  • Jenny Heinrich shows maturity and responsibility for her age.

Significant Themes

  • The influence of Western learning (Physics) on traditional Chinese thought (Confucianism).
  • The contrast between the luxurious and the impoverished, as seen in London's different districts.
  • The struggle of the working class, as seen in the recruitment for American work and the conditions of the Heinrich family.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun interacts with the coachman, learning about the recruitment for American work.
  • He meets Jenny Heinrich, leaving letters for her parents.
  • Xu Yun meets Joseph Lister, discussing a medical idea and leaving him intrigued for more information.

Ch. 273The Unexpected Incidents That Followed One After Another (110,000 words!!!)

Summary of Chapter 272: Consecutive Accidents

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun witnesses a meeting between Tian Haosuo, a Chinese international student, and a group of Easterners, including a man named 'Siyuepiao' who works as a labor leader in the Port area.
  • Old Tang and Evelyn find a homeless girl, Sylph, and bring her back to the inn. Xu Yun recognizes her as the little beggar they met on their first day in London.
  • Old Tang informs Xu Yun that the new Apostle Society member list is out, with Dario Duarte securing the second spot.
  • Xu Yun decides to begin preparing for the Ge Wu Society and asks Old Tang for help in gathering mathematics students and inviting Daniel Bradley.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun shows concern for Tian Haosuo's situation and decides to keep an eye on him.
  • Sylph's background is revealed, and she joins Xu Yun's group on their way back to Cambridge.
  • Xu Yun feels guilty about Bruche not being able to enter the Apostle Society and decides to make amends.

Significant Themes

  • The harsh living conditions of the lower class in 19th-century London.
  • The power dynamics within the Apostle Society and Xu Yun's plans to counter them.
  • The importance of human connections and favors in achieving goals.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun, Old Tang, and Evelyn work together to help Sylph.
  • Xu Yun and Old Tang discuss the Ge Wu Society and the necessary preparations.
  • Xu Yun feels guilty about Bruche's situation and decides to make amends, showing his considerate nature.

Ch. 274Ge Wu Society's First Shot!

Summary of Chapter 273: The Ge Wu Society's First Shot!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun invites Hubert Airy to join the Ge Wu Society.
  • Xu Yun reveals the Ge Wu Society's first project: finding the mysterious celestial body that might be perturbing Uranus's orbit.
  • Hubert Airy agrees to help Xu Yun obtain data and persuade his father to lend the telescope from the Royal Observatory, Greenwich.

Character Developments

  • Hubert Airy shows concern for his father's situation and is willing to help Xu Yun to prove his father's worth.
  • Xu Yun demonstrates his leadership and planning skills by outlining the Ge Wu Society's first project and enlisting Hubert Airy's help.

Significant Themes

  • Redemption and Reputation: Xu Yun's plan to find the mysterious celestial body aims to redeem George Biddle Airy's reputation and prove his worth.
  • Scientific Pursuit: The Ge Wu Society's first project showcases the characters' dedication to scientific research and discovery.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun and Hubert Airy discuss the Ge Wu Society's first project, with Xu Yun convincing Hubert Airy to join and help with the plan.
  • Xu Yun shows empathy for Hubert Airy's concern about his father's situation, which helps to build trust between them.

Ch. 275How You Forced Me Into This! (96K)

  • Xu Yun learns about Pluto's discovery, demotion, and the potential existence of a ninth planet.
  • He plans to use the Astronomical Telescope at the Greenwich Observatory to observe Pluto, attracting students to the Ge Wu Society.
  • Old Tang reveals that Frederic Agar Ellis's father, Earl Ellis, will visit Cambridge University, pressuring Old Tang in the Student Union election.
  • Xu Yun decides to look for computing power reinforcements outside England to solve the manpower issue for his plan.

Ch. 276Reunion with Tian Haosuo

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun encounters Tian Haosuo, a fellow Easterner, at Cambridge University.
  • They meet under a tree, and Xu Yun approaches him, leading to a conversation.
  • Tian Haosuo reveals he's been in Europe since he was young, his family's business declined after his father's death, and he's now a student at Cambridge.
  • Xu Yun learns about the Flying Eagles Gang in London and the increased number of educated Huaxia students in Europe due to Fat Fish's influence.

Character Developments

  • Xu Yun: Shows initiative in seeking out Tian Haosuo, demonstrating his desire to connect with fellow Easterners. He also exhibits curiosity and intelligence in gathering information.
  • Tian Haosuo: Initially reserved, he opens up to Xu Yun, revealing his family background and personal history. He shows knowledge about the Wind Spirit Moon Shadow Sect and its influence on European universities.

Significant Themes

  • Easterners in a foreign land: Both characters are Easterners studying in Europe, facing similar challenges and longing for connection.
  • Knowledge and power: The influence of the Wind Spirit Moon Shadow Sect on European universities highlights the power of knowledge and its potential impact on the East's development.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun and Tian Haosuo: They initially meet with caution but warm up to each other, sharing personal histories and useful information. Their conversation reveals their shared experiences as Easterners in Europe and their desire for connection and support.

Ch. 277The German Blitzkrieg in England

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun visits Faraday, hoping to discuss a deal involving electric charge verification.
  • Faraday and Weber discuss Kirchhoff's future, with Weber hoping Faraday can help Kirchhoff find a position at Cambridge.
  • Xu Yun reveals that he knows about the glow discharge phenomenon and Faraday's discovery of the Faraday dark space.
  • Xu Yun hints at a method to further explore the nature of electric current, but requires a transaction to reveal it.

Character Developments

  • Faraday: Shows curiosity and eagerness when presented with the possibility of verifying electric charge.
  • Weber: Expresses concern for Kirchhoff's future and seeks Faraday's help in finding him a position.
  • Kirchhoff: Remains silent but appears to be open to the idea of working at Cambridge.
  • Xu Yun: Demonstrates knowledge of historical scientific phenomena and an understanding of the potential impact of his revelations.

Significant Themes

  • The nature of electric charge and current.
  • The importance of scientific discovery and its potential applications.
  • The value of collaboration and networking among scientists.
  • The consequences of acting dishonorably and the need for legal defense.

Character Interactions

  • Faraday and Weber: Old acquaintances who discuss Kirchhoff's future and collaborate on scientific research.
  • Xu Yun and Faraday: Xu Yun presents Faraday with a potential scientific breakthrough, hoping to strike a deal.
  • Xu Yun and Weber: Xu Yun involves Weber in his plan to invite German mathematicians to Cambridge.

Ch. 278Mathematics

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Xu Yun discovers that Gauss and Riemann are alive and decides to invite them for help in the Pluto observation.
  • Faraday agrees to help invite other mathematicians, expressing confidence in bringing at least seventy percent of those on the list.
  • Xu Yun shares the design of an enhanced Geissler tube with Faraday, which can achieve a higher vacuum level.
  • Xu Yun hints at the charged nature of the 'light rays' derived from the current, suggesting the existence of electromagnetic waves and charged particles.

Character Developments

  • Faraday shows enthusiasm and confidence in inviting other mathematicians to help with the observation.
  • Xu Yun demonstrates his knowledge of historical figures and events, guiding Faraday towards the discovery of cathode rays.

Significant Themes

  • The importance of precision in scientific experiments, as seen in the difference between Faraday's initial vacuum level and the enhanced Geissler tube's.
  • The interconnectedness of scientific discoveries, with Faraday's work on electromagnetic induction leading to the understanding of cathode rays.

Character Interactions

  • Xu Yun and Faraday discuss the design of the enhanced Geissler tube and the potential observations that can be made with it.
  • Faraday expresses his eagerness to repeat the experiment and verify the charged nature of the 'light rays.'

Ch. 279The Show Begins!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • The chapter begins with the renowned mathematician Carl Friedrich Gauss learning about Michael Faraday's critical illness, leading him to rush to Cambridge, England.
  • Simultaneously, other mathematicians also set off for England upon receiving the news.
  • In Cambridge, Xu Yun prepares for an astronomical observation using the 'Dorodoro' telescope, collaborating with George Biddell Airy, the director of the Greenwich Observatory.
  • Xu Yun meets Evelyn and Sylph, who has been taken in by the Protestant church. Sylph is still cautious and clutches her money pouch.
  • A wooden plaque is erected outside the university dormitories, announcing an upcoming event to observe the ninth planet.

Character Developments

  • Gauss: Driven by the news of Faraday's illness, Gauss demonstrates his urgency and dedication to the academic pursuit of physics.
  • Xu Yun: He continues his astronomical research, showing determination and confidence in his work. He also shows kindness and concern towards Sylph.
  • Sylph: She adapts to her new environment at the church, showing signs of improvement in her health and demeanor, but still retains some caution.

Significant Themes

  • The pursuit of knowledge and truth, as seen in Gauss's urgency to reach Faraday and Xu Yun's dedication to astronomical observation.
  • The theme of adaptation and change, as seen in Sylph's adjustment to her new life at the church.
  • The theme of collaboration and cooperation, as seen in Xu Yun's partnership with George Biddell Airy.

Character Interactions

  • Gauss and Riemann: Their interaction shows Gauss's sternness and expectation for his students, while Riemann demonstrates his eagerness and anxiety.
  • Xu Yun and Evelyn: Their interaction is brief but shows a friendly and familiar relationship.
  • Xu Yun and Sylph: Xu Yun shows kindness and concern towards Sylph, while Sylph demonstrates her lingering caution and dependence on her money pouch.
  • Xu Yun and George Biddell Airy: Their interaction shows a professional and respectful collaboration, with Airy expressing his support for Xu Yun's work despite his reservations.

Ch. 280Gauss's resolve! (72K)

Summary of Chapter 279: Gauss's Resolve!

Key Plot Points and Events

  • Faraday deceives prominent mathematicians to recruit them, claiming he's critically ill.
  • Gauss, Riemann, and other mathematicians arrive, furious at Faraday's deception.
  • Faraday reveals he has a new book, 'Experimental Researches in Electricity (Volume III),' to appease them.
  • Xu Yun reveals he needs their help to locate the ninth planet of the Solar System.
  • Gauss agrees to help, and the other mathematicians follow suit.

Character Developments

  • Faraday: Shows cunning and resourcefulness in deceiving the mathematicians.
  • Gauss: Initially angry, becomes interested and determined after learning about the ninth planet.
  • Xu Yun: Shows respect for Gauss and honesty about the available information on the ninth planet.

Significant Themes

  • Deception and its consequences.
  • The power of curiosity and intellectual challenge in uniting people.
  • The importance of precise observation and record-keeping in scientific discovery.

Character Interactions

  • Faraday and Gauss: Their interaction shows Faraday's manipulative skills and Gauss's pride and curiosity.
  • Gauss and Xu Yun: Gauss's interest in Xu Yun's request hints at his competitive nature and desire for validation.
  • Gauss and the other mathematicians: Gauss's influence is evident as the others follow his lead in agreeing to help Xu Yun.
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