Chapter Summaries

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lin Yi successfully synthesizes a superconducting material (Nd,Sr)NiO₃, which enters a superconducting state at 11.4 K and 8.2 GPa, confirming Li Dong's theoretical prediction.
• Gu Ming completes a paper proving the unconditional convergence of all moments of the Cohen-Lenstra-Martinet conjecture for quintic number fields with Galois group S₅.
• Marcus Bell receives Gu Ming's paper and, impressed by its significance, takes it to Peter Sarnak, the editor-in-chief, for personal review.

Character Developments

• Lin Yi demonstrates perseverance and dedication in his research, ultimately succeeding in synthesizing the predicted superconducting material.
• Gu Ming exhibits exceptional mathematical prowess by pushing the boundaries of the CLM Conjecture and completing a groundbreaking paper.
• Marcus Bell shows initiative and recognition of the significance of Gu Ming's work by bringing it to Peter Sarnak's attention.

Significant Themes

• The intersection of theory and practice in scientific research, as seen in Li Dong's prediction and Lin Yi's successful synthesis of the superconducting material.
• The pursuit of excellence and pushing boundaries in academic fields, exemplified by Gu Ming's work on the CLM Conjecture.
• Recognition and validation of significant contributions, as demonstrated by Marcus Bell's actions and Peter Sarnak's personal involvement in reviewing Gu Ming's paper.

Character Interactions

• Lin Yi and Liu Yiming collaborate in the laboratory, with Liu Yiming offering guidance and encouragement to Lin Yi.
• Gu Ming and Sarah work together, with Sarah supporting and observing Gu Ming's progress on his paper.
• Marcus Bell and Derek Thorne interact in the editorial department, with Thorne attempting to belittle Bell's efforts and Bell ultimately proving his worth by bringing Gu Ming's paper to Sarnak's attention.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Dong oversees material synthesis and project preparations for two months.
• The team successfully synthesizes five materials, but only one shows promise for high-temperature superconductivity.
• The last material, (la?.?sm?.?)?(ni?.??cu?.??)?o?δ, is found to superconduct at ambient pressure and 202K, confirmed by multiple measurements.
• Academician Chen Xianhui arrives and imposes secrecy, followed by government officials who secure the lab and sign confidentiality agreements.

Character Developments

• Li Dong demonstrates his dedication and expertise in overseeing projects and guiding the team.
• Academician Chen Xianhui shows his leadership and commitment to the project's success.
• Team members display a mix of excitement, disbelief, and apprehension upon learning the material's properties.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of high-temperature superconductivity and its potential applications.
• The importance of secrecy and confidentiality in scientific research with significant implications.
• The challenges and rewards of collaborative scientific work.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong interacts with team members, guiding them and sharing his expertise.
• Academician Chen Xianhui interacts with Li Dong, showing trust and support for his work.
• Team members interact with each other, sharing their excitement and disbelief upon learning the material's properties.

Summary

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Dong receives an Origin Fragment reward from the Azure Dragon Study Group, but it's locked.
• He tries to trick the group by claiming he can't dig further, but they see through him.
• Li Dong shares his discovery of superconductivity to bait group members.
• Isaac Newton and Richard Feynman discuss the nature of superconductivity.
• Li Dong shares his criterion for superconductivity, but it's censored in the group.
• Li Dong retrieves a superconducting sample from Academician Chen Xianhui.
• He transfers the sample to Feynman using his last Data Transfer attempt.

Character Developments

• Li Dong demonstrates cunning and resourcefulness in trying to fleece group members.
• Feynman shows his expertise in physics and willingness to engage in debate.
• Newton displays sharp analytical skills and insight into the nature of superconductivity.
• Academician Chen Xianhui is protective of the precious superconducting sample.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of knowledge and truth in scientific discovery.
• The value of open debate and discussion among scientists.
• The tension between sharing and hoarding knowledge.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong tries to manipulate Feynman and Newton for personal gain.
• Feynman and Newton engage in a heated debate about the nature of superconductivity.
• Li Dong and Academician Chen Xianhui have a brief, practical exchange regarding the superconducting sample.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Dong receives a group notification about Condensed Matter Order Completion in Universe No. 1918.
• Feynman's avatar turns black and goes offline, leaving Li Dong uneasy.
• Li Dong discovers new parameters in the Mind Sandbox for superconducting conditions and other materials.
• Academician Chen Xianhui delivers data to Aojin Pavilion for discussion on the superconducting material.
• Li Dong and his team work on various material batches at the laboratory, with Li Dong focusing on data collection.

Character Developments

• Li Dong: Becomes more focused on data collection and less concerned with the practical use of materials. He shows a growing detachment from the commercial or strategic implications of his work.
• Feynman: Goes offline, and Li Dong suspects he might not come back online.
• Academicians and researchers: Discuss the implications of Li Dong's work and consider how to manage it, with differing opinions on whether to involve the state or leave Li Dong independent.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of knowledge and scientific advancement, regardless of immediate practical applications.
• The tension between individual scientific pursuits and state control or management of technology.
• The commercial and strategic implications of scientific discoveries.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong and his team: Work together to create and test materials, with Li Dong guiding the process and focusing on data collection.
• Academicians and researchers: Discuss and debate the implications of Li Dong's work and how to manage it, with Academician Zhao Zhongxian advocating for state involvement and Wen Haihu arguing for Li Dong's independence.
• Li Dong and Feynman: Li Dong receives messages from Feynman but is left uneasy when Feynman's avatar turns black and goes offline.

• Huaxia orders disappear: Prashil, an Arizona supplier of high-end FFKM seals, sees its Huaxia orders steadily shrink. Its rival Quatztek reports a similar decline, as do suppliers in Belgium and Japan. The customers remain polite and make no demands, leaving foreign firms unsure whether Huaxia is negotiating, stockpiling, or shifting to other sources.
• The engine project begins: In Beijing, Li Dong attends the launch meeting for Huaxia’s wide-speed-range engine project. As chief engineer, he addresses the older research leaders with confidence and a touch of humor, framing the goal—a single engine operating from Mach 0 to Mach 8.3 in several modes—as difficult but essential to giving Huaxia aircraft an engine of their own. The participating institutes immediately begin coordinated work.
• A proposal for Li Dong’s research: Xue Qikun tells Li Dong that senior scientists want him to establish an independent research institution focused on superconductivity. Li Dong would control the core research and choose his team; Huaxia would provide funding and policy support, with priority access to strategically important results. Li Dong agrees to consider setting it up once the engine project is underway. He recognizes that a research platform could achieve far more than his individual efforts and welcomes the arrangement.
• The project mobilizes: Teams across the country begin preparing wind tunnels, laboratories, and materials production. Li Dong plans to travel extensively and returns to Lanqi Camp to pack.
• A quieter closing scene: At Peking University, Gu Ming walks beside Sarah, who offers detailed criticism of his paper, suggesting he replace a lengthy proof with a citation. Their collegial exchange hints at a close intellectual connection.
  Character developments and interactions: Li Dong presents himself as both self-assured and committed to national capability, while also accepting that scientific progress depends on institutions and collaboration. Xue Qikun carefully conveys the proposal without coercion, reflecting Huaxia’s concern for Li Dong’s autonomy and trust. The engine project brings many senior researchers into partnership under Li Dong’s leadership; Sarah and Gu Ming’s exchange shows another form of collaboration through candid scholarly feedback.
  Significant themes: The chapter contrasts foreign suppliers’ dependence on Huaxia’s market with Huaxia’s drive to build domestic scientific and industrial capacity. It emphasizes collective research over reliance on one exceptional individual, the balance between national priorities and personal independence, and the value of collaboration in both ambitious engineering and everyday academic work.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Ming submits his paper to New Advances in Mathematics, which Li Dong praises as "beautifully written."
• Li Dong returns to Hecheng, where he begins to review historical data on synthesized materials in the laboratory.
• Huaxia's decline in orders from foreign suppliers causes panic among them, as Huaxia has developed domestic alternatives.
• CTV Evening News reports on numerous breakthroughs in materials science, leading to public shock and excitement.

Character Developments

• Gu Ming: Confirms his mathematical prowess by submitting a paper that impresses Li Dong.
• Li Dong: Shows pride and satisfaction in Gu Ming's achievements, continues to work on materials science.
• Foreign Suppliers: Face a crisis due to Huaxia's development of domestic materials.

Significant Themes

• The power of mathematics and academic achievements.
• The impact of technological advancements on industry and the economy.
• The importance of domestic research and development in achieving self-sufficiency.

Character Interactions

• Gu Ming and Li Dong: Gu Ming seeks Li Dong's approval for his paper, and Li Dong praises it.
• Foreign Suppliers and Huaxia: Foreign suppliers face competition from Huaxia's domestic materials industry.
• The public and the news: The public reacts with shock and excitement to the news of Huaxia's materials breakthroughs.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Dong reviews material files at Hecheng Institute, finding nothing related to Thermal Barrier Coating.
• He attempts to use the Mind Sandbox on a stealth coating file, causing the sandbox to nearly shatter due to the complexity of the deduced material synthesis route.
• Li Dong decides to visit the Institute of Metal Research in Shenyang next, and contacts Academician Xue Qikun to arrange authorization.
• Li Dong learns that materials he previously rejected have been sold and are in high demand.

Character Developments

• Li Dong demonstrates his dedication and work ethic in reviewing material files and his curiosity about the nearly shattered material synthesis route.
• Academician Xue Qikun shows his efficiency and helpfulness in arranging authorization for Li Dong's visit to Shenyang.
• Li Dong shows his foresight and planning in considering who to recruit for his future research institute.

Significant Themes

• The pursuit of knowledge and understanding, even when faced with challenges and setbacks.
• The value of perseverance and dedication in research, as seen in Li Dong's thorough review of material files.
• The importance of collaboration and support in research, as seen in Li Dong's interactions with Academician Xue Qikun.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong and Academician Xue Qikun discuss the Thermal Barrier Coating project and the establishment of Li Dong's research institute.
• Li Dong reflects on the materials he previously rejected and their unexpected success in the market.
• Professor Liu Jianye, a mathematician at Cheeloo University, becomes engrossed in reading Gu Ming's latest paper, neglecting his teaching duties.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Ming's paper is challenged by Niels Halvorsen, causing a stir in the mathematical community.
• Li Dong, after gathering resources for his project, learns about Gu Ming's predicament and decides to intervene.
• Li Dong posts on MathOverflow, defending Gu Ming's work and challenging the established Grant Local Factor Formula.

Character Developments

• Gu Ming: Struggles with the backlash against his paper, becomes isolated, and stops answering calls.
• Li Dong: Shows support for Gu Ming, challenges the mathematical community's consensus, and decides to teach Gu Ming a lesson in courage.

Significant Themes

• Courage and perseverance in the face of adversity.
• The importance of questioning established theories and challenging the status quo in mathematics.
• The mentor-mentee relationship between Li Dong and Gu Ming.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong and Gu Ming: Li Dong decides to intervene and support Gu Ming, planning to teach him a lesson in courage.
• The mathematical community: Scholars debate and question Gu Ming's paper, with some supporting him and others doubting his work.
• Sarah: Informs Li Dong about Gu Ming's situation and expresses her concern for Gu Ming.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Dong publicly questions the validity of the Grant Local Factor Formula on MathOverflow, causing a stir among mathematicians.
• Terence Tao suggests revisiting Grant's original paper, which hadn't been borrowed from libraries in nineteen years.
• Li Dong assigns Gu Ming a problem related to Halvorson's comment, shifting the focus of the forum to Gu Ming's involvement.
• Mathematicians verify that the Grant Formula fails on branches containing roots of unity, leading to a realization that Gu Ming's paper may have been correct all along.
• Li Dong gives an open lecture, confirming Gu Ming's paper as a reliable tool and assigning Gu Ming to write a correction paper.
• Halvorson revises his stance, acknowledging Gu Ming's theorem and suggesting the new local factors be referred to as the "Gu Ming Factor."

Character Developments

• Li Dong: Asserts his authority and expertise by questioning the Grant Formula and guiding the mathematical community towards verifying Gu Ming's work.
• Gu Ming: Though not directly present, his paper is validated, and he is tasked with writing a correction paper, solidifying his place in mathematical history.
• Halvorson: Revises his initial judgment, acknowledging Gu Ming's theorem and suggesting the new local factors be named after Gu Ming.

Significant Themes

• The importance of verification and re-evaluation in mathematics.
• The weight of authority and expertise in the mathematical community.
• The process of correction and revision in academia.
• The role of new mathematical tools and techniques in advancing knowledge.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong interacts with the mathematical community on MathOverflow, guiding them through the verification process.
• Halvorson interacts with Li Dong and the community, revising his stance based on the evidence presented.
• Gu Ming, though not directly interacting, is the subject of discussion and ultimately tasked with writing a correction paper by Li Dong.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Gu Ming's paper is published, but he's tasked with correcting the Grant Formula.
• Li Dong disappears after finishing his work at the Shanghai Institute of Ceramics.
• Edward Witten goes missing after sending Li Dong an email about "Unparticles" that might defy locality.

Character Developments

• Gu Ming: Realizes his mistake in not questioning the Grant Formula earlier and decides to complete Li Dong's assignment.
• Li Dong: Completes his work at the institute and receives Witten's concerning email before his disappearance.
• Edward Witten: Feels uneasy about his findings regarding "Unparticles" and goes missing after tidying his office and leaving behind cryptic messages.

Significant Themes

• Courage to Question Authority: Gu Ming learns to question established theories, as demonstrated by his decision to correct the Grant Formula.
• The Intersection of Mathematics and Physics: The story explores the connection between mathematical theories and their physical implications, as seen in Witten's work on "Unparticles."
• The Impact of Discovery: The potential existence of "Unparticles" could challenge fundamental physics, highlighting the significance and consequences of scientific discoveries.

Character Interactions

• Gu Ming and Sarah: Sarah supports Gu Ming and helps him prioritize getting a haircut before working on his assignment.
• Li Dong and Gu Ming: Li Dong encourages Gu Ming to complete the assignment, showing his confidence in his student's abilities.
• Witten and Li Dong: Witten shares his concerns about "Unparticles" with Li Dong via email before his disappearance, implying a level of trust and mutual understanding between them.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Dong receives an email from Witten, who is missing, stating he's fine and not to look for him.
• Li Dong uses Little Black to trace Witten's email, finding him in Geneva.
• Dong Shaoming mentions using homogenization theory to convert properties, giving Li Dong an idea for Thermal Barrier Coating Material.

Character Developments

• Li Dong realizes he's been approaching the material synthesis problem from the wrong dimensional level and decides to study homogenization theory.
• Witten's situation remains mysterious, with Li Dong now knowing he's in Geneva but unsure about his circumstances.

Significant Themes

• The struggle to develop advanced materials and technologies, and the challenges faced in the process.
• The interconnectedness of global supply chains and the impact of geopolitical issues on them.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong interacts with Dong Shaoming, who provides a crucial clue about homogenization theory.
• Li Dong communicates with Little Black to trace Witten's email, showing Li Dong's resourcefulness and determination to find Witten.
• The global semiconductor industry faces challenges due to Huaxia's new material, leading to job losses and political pressure in the U.S.

The chapter, "Our Side Has Been Fully Suppressed, Requesting Instructions," details the escalating tension between the U.S. and Huaxia, with the U.S. imposing tariffs on Huaxia's exports and Huaxia responding with strategic subsidies and import bans. The situation reaches a boiling point when the U.S. announces a joint military exercise with Japan, involving new-generation stealth fighters, in the Pacific. Huaxia responds by announcing its own live-fire exercises in the same region.
Meanwhile, Li Dong, a mathematician in Huaxia, struggles with a materials science problem related to thermal barrier coatings for jet engines. He eventually realizes that he needs to approach the problem using targeted logic rather than relying on his cheat ability, the Mind Sandbox.
The chapter ends with a U.S. test pilot, Captain Ryan Coleman, flying a new-generation stealth fighter (NGAD) during the joint exercise. He encounters three unidentified stealth aircraft flying at over Mach 4, which completely surround and suppress his aircraft. He reports this to the Hawkeye early-warning aircraft, saying, "Our side has been fully suppressed, requesting instructions."

Plot Points & Events

• US-Japan joint military exercises ended early, surprising global media and netizens.
• A video from Miyako Island shows an aircraft traveling at Mach 4, sparking speculation about Huaxia's new aircraft.
• Li Dong successfully develops a thermal barrier coating material capable of withstanding 2600K.

Character Developments

• Li Dong gains confidence in his abilities and successfully creates a groundbreaking material.
• Xue Qikun, initially skeptical, is surprised and impressed by Li Dong's achievement.

Significant Themes

• Technological advancement and competition, particularly in aerospace and materials science.
• Global politics and economics, with the US and Huaxia engaging in a form of negotiation or competition.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong shares his breakthrough with Xue Qikun, who is initially surprised but supportive.
• Li Dong coordinates with other institutions to verify and advance his material, demonstrating his leadership and confidence.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Dong attends two meetings to address bottlenecks in the special project, demonstrating his problem-solving skills and earning respect.
• The Novig family arrives in Huaxia, seeking help from Li Dong to escape their travel ban and house arrest.
• Li Dong offers Clara a job at his upcoming research institute and agrees to help the Novig family with their citizenship.

Character Developments

• Li Dong: Shows his expertise and leadership in the meetings, earning respect from other researchers. He also demonstrates his willingness to help the Novig family, showing his compassionate side.
• Clara: Shows her determination to work with Li Dong, even teasing him about his spending habits.
• Novig: Initially cold towards Li Dong, he warms up after Li Dong offers to help with their citizenship.

Significant Themes

• Problem-solving and expertise: Li Dong's ability to tackle complex problems is showcased in the meetings and his offer to help the Novig family.
• Trust and respect: Li Dong earns the trust and respect of other researchers through his problem-solving skills. The Novig family also begins to trust Li Dong after he offers to help them.
• Freedom and responsibility: The Novig family's desire for freedom is a driving force in their decision to seek Li Dong's help. Li Dong, in turn, feels a sense of responsibility to help them.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong and the researchers: Li Dong interacts with various researchers, earning their respect and helping to resolve their issues.
• Li Dong and the Novig family: Li Dong interacts with the Novig family, offering to help them with their citizenship and employment. He shows compassion and understanding towards their situation.
• Clara and Li Dong: Clara teases Li Dong about his spending habits, showing a playful side to their relationship.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Dong learns that Edward Witten is near the Swiss-French border, possibly at CERN's Large Hadron Collider (LHC).
• Li Dong decides not to rush Witten's location, as he's not in immediate danger.
• Old Zhang decides to report Witten's location to his superiors.
• Li Dong recommends Peter Norvig for an endowed professor position at Peking University, but the process is complicated.
• Principal Gong Qi agrees to help Norvig, using Li Dong's recommendation slot and requiring Li Dong to make up his teaching hours.
• Li Dong requests a piece of land from Principal Gong Qi.

Character Developments

• Li Dong: Shows his influence and connections by recommending Norvig and negotiating with Principal Gong Qi.
• Old Zhang: Demonstrates his professionalism by digesting and analyzing Li Dong's information before reacting.
• Principal Gong Qi: Shows his resourcefulness and willingness to help Li Dong, while also ensuring rules are followed.

Significant Themes

• The importance of connections and influence in Huaxia's academic and political systems.
• The complex and sometimes bureaucratic nature of university procedures.
• The value of rules and following procedures, even in exceptional circumstances.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong and Old Zhang: Li Dong shares information about Witten, and Old Zhang decides to report it to his superiors.
• Li Dong and Principal Gong Qi: Li Dong recommends Norvig, and Gong Qi agrees to help, requiring Li Dong to make up his teaching hours in return.
• Li Dong and Peter Norvig: Li Dong helps Norvig secure a position at Peking University, and Norvig feels grateful and guilty for the trouble Li Dong went through.

Key plot points and events

• Li Dong asks Peking University president Gong Qi for 300 mu of land to build a comprehensive research institute, covering physics, chemistry, computing, materials science, mathematics, and staff housing.
• Gong initially worries that reallocating so much land would disrupt Changping Campus plans and exceed his authority. Once he understands the institute is a major, higher-level-approved project, he offers land reserved for the campus’s second phase, while asking Li to include Peking University personnel.
• Gong submits the proposal to the university’s standing committee, where it meets strong resistance. He reveals that Academician Xue Qikun has confirmed approval from above; the committee then passes the proposal unanimously. Formal authorization arrives quickly.
• At Princeton, postdoc Lucas Vesterberi broods over missing out on the Salem Prize for a second year: first Sarah Luowei’s work overtook his chances, and now Gu Ming’s two major papers have made him the likely winner. Lucas continues working on a harder variable-coefficient problem and considers visiting Peking University to understand Li Dong’s research environment.
• Lucas helps a junior student struggling with a proof, then returns to his modest apartment, sends money to his parents, and conceals his financial strain from colleagues.
• Construction begins at Changping Campus, using a contractor from the nuclear industry system. Li visits the site with Clara, asks her to oversee the physics complex’s technical requirements, then leaves to handle a confidential test-piece issue. Clara cheerfully treats the institute as “her” research institute and starts sketching its plans.

Character developments and interactions

• Li Dong is practical and strategic: he seeks a university location for the institute because it offers infrastructure and recruitment advantages, while making clear he will look elsewhere if the land disrupts campus plans.
• Gong Qi shifts from alarm to eager support, recognizing the institute’s value to Peking University. He negotiates for university positions and uses official backing to overcome committee opposition.
• Lucas struggles with repeated professional disappointment and financial pressure, but remains generous, disciplined, and considerate. His curiosity about Li Dong grows from rivalry into a desire to understand the source of Li’s students’ success.
• Clara shows confidence and strong technical ownership of the physics facilities, jokingly claiming the institute as her own.
• Gu Ming is established as a rising mathematician whose work has made him a likely Selm Prize winner and future Fields Medal contender.

Significant themes

• Research and institutional power: Major scientific projects depend not only on scholarship but also on land, infrastructure, funding, and government approval.
• Competition and recognition: Lucas’s experience shows how exceptional competitors can eclipse excellent work, and how academic prestige affects researchers’ sense of identity.
• Generosity and solidarity: Despite his frustration, Lucas helps a student without expecting anything in return.
• Personal sacrifice behind academic success: Lucas’s modest life and support for his family contrast with the polished image he maintains in Princeton’s academic circles.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Meng Huaichang and his team receive a proposal to replace the forged-welded combined structure of the main load-bearing casing with an additively manufactured structure.
• The proposal is initially promising, but after thorough review, it's rejected due to potential life-determination issues.
• Xue Qikun, on behalf of Chief Engineer Li Dong, orders the team to restart a previously rejected proposal by Shen Zhixing.
• Li Dong, back in Yungang, begins to unravel the mystery behind the collapsed thrust curve during the last hot-state transition experiment.

Character Developments

• Meng Huaichang: Stands firm on his professional judgment, but ultimately respects Li Dong's authority and restarts the proposal.
• Qin Zhongkang: Questions the decision to restart Shen Zhixing's proposal but ultimately complies.
• Yu Mingqi: Provides crucial insights into the life-determination issues of the additive-manufactured casing proposal.
• Li Dong: Continues to unravel the black box mystery, making significant progress in understanding the collapsed thrust curve.

Significant Themes

• Deception in Warfare: The chapter's title references Sun Tzu's "The Art of War," highlighting the use of deception in warfare and decision-making.
• Professional Integrity vs. Authority: The tension between Meng Huaichang's professional judgment and Li Dong's authority is a central conflict in the chapter.
• Technological Breakthroughs: The pursuit of technological advancements, such as additive manufacturing and improved thermal barrier coatings, drives the plot forward.

Character Interactions

• Meng Huaichang and Qin Zhongkang: The two experts discuss and review the additive-manufactured casing proposal, demonstrating their professional expertise and trust in each other's judgment.
• Meng Huaichang and Yu Mingqi: They collaborate to review the proposal, with Yu Mingqi providing crucial insights that lead to the proposal's rejection.
• Meng Huaichang and Xue Qikun: Xue Qikun, on behalf of Li Dong, orders Meng Huaichang to restart Shen Zhixing's proposal, highlighting Li Dong's authority and influence.
• Li Dong and Shen Zhixing: Although not directly interacting in this chapter, their proposals are central to the plot, and their work is interconnected.

Key Plot Points and Events

• The J-36A, an upgraded version of the J-36, is being assembled, with improved engine performance allowing for Mach 4.2 supercruising.
• The delivery date for the fourth batch of mass production has been delayed due to key personnel reassignment.
• Qi Zhengxiong, the deputy chief commander of the J-36 project, is upset about the delays and demands answers from Yue Congshan.
• Yue Congshan hints that the reassigned personnel are working on a secret project, warning Qi Zhengxiong not to meddle in it.
• At Beijing Daxing International Airport, Lucas Vesterberi overhears Julian Hart, a wealthy American, discussing a foundation that sponsors mathematically gifted children, with Arthur Penrose.
• Li Dong successfully uses his Mind Sandbox to simulate and validate the operation of the Detonation Power Bridge, achieving a 97.6% thrust retention rate.

Character Developments

• Qi Zhengxiong: Shows his dedication and passion for the J-36 project, demonstrating his hawkish nature and bluntness.
• Yue Congshan: Reveals his mild-mannered and steady personality, but also displays a forceful side when warning Qi Zhengxiong.
• Lucas Vesterberi: Arrives in Beijing, curious about the foundation mentioned by Julian Hart.
• Li Dong: Successfully uses his Mind Sandbox to validate the Detonation Power Bridge's operation, showing his determination and skill.

Significant Themes

• The race for technological advancement, particularly in aerospace, between Huaxia and other countries.
• The importance of secrecy and confidentiality in scientific research and military projects.
• The power of mentorship and sponsorship in fostering mathematical talent, as seen through the foundation mentioned by Julian Hart.

Character Interactions

• Qi Zhengxiong and Yue Congshan: Their interaction highlights the tension between the need for secrecy and the pressure to meet production deadlines.
• Lucas Vesterberi and Arthur Penrose: Their encounter at the airport introduces the foundation that sponsors mathematically gifted children.
• Li Dong and his Mind Sandbox: Li Dong's interaction with his mental tool demonstrates his ability to solve complex problems and achieve his objectives.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Li Dong completes the instability mechanism analysis and injection-locking closed-loop control plan for the special project and hands it over to Xue Qikun.
• Li Dong meets with Hart and Penrose to finalize the fund's setup and reviews the files of the selected students.
• Lucas Vesterberi, a mathematician who has been scooped by Li Dong's students twice, visits Li Dong seeking advice and expressing his desire to contribute to the foundation.

Character Developments

• Li Dong: Shows his dedication to the special project, his trust in Penrose, and his understanding of the foundation's purpose.
• Penrose: Demonstrates his efficiency and thoughtfulness in managing the foundation, including the selection of reviewers and the rotation of the review panel.
• Lucas Vesterberi: Reveals his determination to succeed in mathematics and his desire to contribute to the foundation, hinting at a background similar to Sarah's.

Significant Themes

• The power of mentorship and guidance in mathematics, as seen in Li Dong's impact on his students and Lucas's admiration for him.
• The importance of supporting young talent, as demonstrated by the foundation's purpose and Li Dong's approval of its setup.
• The global nature of mathematical research and competition, as shown by the international students supported by the foundation and Lucas's visit to Li Dong.

Character Interactions

• Li Dong and Penrose: Their friendship and shared vision for the foundation are evident in their conversation and decision-making process.
• Li Dong and Lucas: Li Dong's refusal to provide guidance on Lucas's work highlights the latter's determination and the former's busy schedule and potential conflicts of interest.
• Li Dong and Hart: Their professional relationship is shown in their brief interaction, with Hart displaying respect for Li Dong as the fund's main contributor.

Chapter Summary: “I’ll Be Standing There, Waiting for the Next One”

Key Plot Points and Events

• In Li Dong’s office, Gu Ming, Sarah, Lucas, and Professor Penrose meet to organize Li Dong’s academic fund.
• Li Dong appoints:
  • Gu Ming to oversee fund reviews and make final selection decisions.
  • Lucas to conduct preliminary evaluations and blind reviews for overseas rounds, while helping Penrose recruit temporary reviewers and problem setters.
  • A future finance director to manage disbursements, reconciliations, and coordination with Hart.
• Li Dong asks Gu Ming to monitor Mi Xia’s progress in economic statistics and programming, paying attention not only to her academic ability but also to her character.
• At Institute 31, researchers work overnight to implement Li Dong’s injection-locking control scheme for the hypersonic engine. Though the scheme allows certain engineering tolerances, Xue Qikun insists that the reference values must be followed exactly.
• Deputy chief engineer He Zhigang embraces this standard and orders all teams to eliminate permitted errors, reflecting the researchers’ determination to meet Li Dong’s theoretical specifications perfectly.
• Li Dong repeatedly leaves messages for Qian, sharing his progress and mentioning connections to Qian’s grandson and Zheng Zhemin’s academic lineage. Qian never responds, but Li Dong continues seeking his acknowledgment.
• In November 2028, Gu Ming wins the Salem Prize for proving all-order moments of the Cohen–Lenstra–Martinet conjecture for non-Abelian quintic fields, with an explicit error bound independent of the Generalized Riemann Hypothesis.
• Terence Tao highlights Gu Ming’s additional correction of the flawed Grant Local Factor Formula. Gu Ming’s replacement becomes known as the Gu Ming Factor, making his achievement especially significant.
• During the award ceremony, Gu Ming gives his first public remarks as a mathematician and delivers an impressive academic report.
• When asked whether he will pursue the 2030 Fields Medal, Gu Ming confidently promises that he will stand on that stage and “wait for the next person,” echoing Li Dong’s earlier words about Huaxia mathematicians continuing to rise.
• Back at home, Li Dong proudly watches Gu Ming’s speech and jokes that his student has inherited his own tendency toward grand, slightly pretentious statements.
• The mood changes when Xue Qikun reports that the full-system simulation has succeeded but produced an unexpected result: the system’s speed envelope extends from the planned Mach 8.3 to Mach 8.8. Li Dong is stunned that what Xue calls a minor “industrial error” is actually a major deviation.

Character Developments

• Li Dong demonstrates strong organizational leadership by delegating responsibilities according to each person’s strengths. He also reveals a protective, mentoring side through his concern for Mi Xia and his continued desire to share achievements with Qian.
• Gu Ming moves from an awkward, inexperienced participant in professional interactions to a globally recognized mathematician. His Salem Prize victory confirms his intellectual stature, while his confident speech shows growing self-assurance and ambition.
• Lucas transitions from a potential competitor to a trusted collaborator in Li Dong’s fund, accepting his responsibilities readily and offering access to his international academic network.
• Professor Penrose remains brilliant but dislikes administrative and financial work, gladly accepting Li Dong’s plan to appoint a finance director.
• Xue Qikun displays uncompromising standards, refusing to treat engineering tolerances as an excuse for imprecision. He inspires the Institute 31 team to pursue perfection.
• He Zhigang quickly adopts Xue’s demanding attitude and motivates the entire workshop through decisive leadership.
• Mi Xia is developing rapidly, moving into economic statistics, accounting, and data programming. Li Dong’s request to observe her character suggests that her future role may be important.
• Qian, though absent and unresponsive, remains an important emotional and intellectual reference point for Li Dong.

Significant Themes

• Mentorship and succession: Li Dong’s guidance of Gu Ming and Mi Xia reflects the passing of knowledge and ambition to a new generation.
• The rise of Huaxia scholarship: Gu Ming’s award and public promise symbolize the increasing international prominence of Huaxia mathematicians.
• Ambition and legacy: Gu Ming’s vow to wait for the next person suggests that achievement is not an endpoint but part of a continuing chain.
• Precision versus practical compromise: The engineering team’s rejection of tolerances contrasts with ordinary industrial practice and emphasizes their pursuit of theoretical perfection.
• Recognition and validation: Li Dong’s messages to Qian reveal his desire to share success with an admired elder, even without receiving a response.
• Comedy through exaggerated achievement: The chapter juxtaposes world-changing mathematical and engineering accomplishments with humorous misunderstandings, awkward compliments, and Li Dong’s disbelief at the supposedly “tiny” Mach 0.5 error.

Important Character Interactions

• Gu Ming and Lucas exchange exaggerated compliments about each other’s unrelated fields, creating an awkward but humorous first interaction.
• Li Dong assigns Gu Ming and Lucas complementary roles, transforming former competitors into colleagues.
• Li Dong instructs Gu Ming to mentor and monitor Mi Xia, reinforcing Gu Ming’s growing responsibility.
• Xue Qikun challenges He Zhigang’s reliance on tolerances, and He responds by rallying the entire Institute 31 team to eliminate all deviations.
• Gu Ming’s public declaration about “waiting for the next person” echoes Li Dong’s earlier ideals, creating a symbolic mentor-student connection.
• Li Dong’s proud reaction to Gu Ming’s speech is immediately undercut by Xue’s report of the unexpected Mach 8.8 result, ending the chapter on a comic cliffhanger.