Chapter summary

Plot and key events

After finishing his mathematics exam, Lu Zhou visits Professor Tang and finds him meeting with university staff and two students: Wang Xiaodong, a celebrated computer-science student, and Lin Yuxiang, a first-year student who has accompanied him. The meeting concerns forming a three-person team for the Mathematical Modeling Competition, with the university hoping the team will also compete in the Mathematical Contest in Modeling the following February.
Wang proposes Lin for the open spot, citing her student-affairs and club experience as useful for presenting and writing. The directors are uneasy: they had hoped to recruit someone with strong academic writing skills, and Lin has no apparent modeling credentials. Lin sincerely asks for a chance, and Wang says he had already planned to team up with her because he would rather work with someone familiar.
The discussion shifts when Professor Tang mentions Lu Zhou’s paper. Lu reveals that it has just been accepted by Communications in Mathematics and Applications, an SCI journal. This impresses the university staff and earns Lu greater respect from Wang. Director Lu then asks Lu whether he objects to Lin joining. Lu accepts, reasoning that Wang’s programming ability complements his own, Lin may help with the presentation, and refusing would likely prevent the team from forming. The team is finalized, with Professor Liu Xiangping as advisor and its first meeting scheduled for the next morning.

Character developments

• Lu Zhou remains modest about his achievements, but is ambitious about the contest: motivated by the prize money, he intends to win first place. He is practical enough to accept a teammate he doubts, weighing the group’s strengths rather than insisting on an ideal team.
• Wang Xiaodong appears highly talented but somewhat socially unaware and overconfident in pushing for his preferred teammate. Lu Zhou’s publication makes him reconsider Lu and treat him with more respect.
• Lin Yuxiang comes across as earnest and determined. Though initially dismissed by Lu as a likely weak link, she confidently asks for an opportunity and shows clear admiration for Lu.
• Professor Tang takes pride in Lu’s success and gently steers the discussion by bringing up the paper.
• The university staff initially hesitate over Lin’s suitability, but Lu’s academic record helps reassure them that the team has a strong foundation.

Significant themes

• Achievement and humility: Lu’s perfect exam score and journal acceptance impress others, but he credits his mentor and avoids boasting.
• Teamwork and complementary skills: The proposed team combines mathematics, computing, and presentation ability, though the members’ fit is uncertain.
• Talent versus judgment: Wang’s accomplishments do not guarantee good social judgment; Lu’s quieter, more measured approach contrasts with him.
• Opportunity and potential: Lin has no obvious qualifications for the role, but she asks to prove herself rather than be dismissed outright.
• Ambition: Lu sees the competition as a concrete goal and is determined to win.

Character interactions

The chapter contrasts Wang’s blunt insistence on Lin’s inclusion with the directors’ professional reservations and Lu’s private skepticism. Lin approaches Lu warmly and later seeks his approval, while he responds politely but cautiously. Professor Tang’s praise of Lu changes the room’s assessment of him, and his acceptance ultimately settles the team’s disagreement.

Summary: "An Honest Guy, It Turns Out"

Key Plot Points

• Lin Yuxiang stops Lu Zhou outside the men's dormitory to thank him for helping her in Professor Tang's office earlier (she was added to his Mathematical Modeling Competition team).
• She offers to treat him to a meal; Lu Zhou declines, citing that she should eat with her "boyfriend" (Senior Wang).
• Lin Yuxiang denies having a boyfriend, insisting Senior Wang is just a senior she sees as an older brother.
• Lu Zhou realizes her intentions but politely refuses the meal. They exchange WeChat contacts before parting.
• Lu Zhou returns to his dorm, where his three roommates—who witnessed the interaction from the window—lock the door and interrogate him.
• After Lu Zhou clarifies she's just a teammate, the roommates lose interest and return to gaming.
• Lu Zhou heads to the library to continue researching paper topics for the competition.

Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Demonstrates sharp social observation and self-awareness. He analyzes Lin Yuxiang's behavior rationally and distances himself, recognizing he lacks the "height, wealth, and looks" to safely engage with her type. His diligence continues as he works on competition preparation.
• Lin Yuxiang: Introduced as seemingly sweet and humble ("I know I'm not very smart"), but Lu Zhou perceives her as a manipulative social climber using charm to coast in competitions and secure advantages.
• Roommates (Huang Guangming, Shi Shang, Liu Rui): Portrayed as typical college students—more interested in gaming and romance gossip than academics. They tease Lu Zhou but quickly lose interest once no social opportunity emerges.

Significant Themes

• Emotional manipulation / social games: Lu Zhou's extended internal analysis compares this "type of girl" to ant colony social structures—using charm to extract value while keeping men at a distance. He critiques those who package themselves as pitiable to exploit others' protective instincts.
• Rationality vs. emotion: Lu Zhou's analytical approach to social relationships contrasts with the typical romantic/emotional approach, reflecting his scientific mindset applied to human behavior.
• Social stratification in academia: The chapter touches on how less-capable students can leverage social skills to ride on the achievements of talented peers in competitions.

Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou ↔ Lin Yuxiang: She tries to ingratiate herself through flattery and a meal invitation; he remains polite but guarded, declining her advances while tactfully avoiding confrontation.
• Lu Zhou ↔ Roommates: A comedic interrogation scene—they physically block the door and demand "confessions" about the girl downstairs, then deflate when he reveals there's nothing romantic. Their banter underscores the dorm's casual, teasing dynamic.
• Narration ↔ Reader: The chapter closes with Lu Zhou's internal musing about wishing the system would grant him another library task, showing his reliance on the system for academic progression.

Notable Narration

The bulk of Lu Zhou's character is revealed through his extended internal monologue, especially his detailed deconstruction of Lin Yuxiang's behavior patterns, his self-deprecating humor ("aside from being honest and fairly handsome, he was neither tall nor rich"), and his pragmatic worldview regarding dating and competition.

Chapter Summary

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Zhou decides to use the system to generate paper ideas rather than traditional research, prioritizing easy publication over genuine contribution.
• He chooses Artificial Intelligence as his field because it is saturated with "fluff" papers and easy to publish in, recalling Elon Musk's criticism of IT academia.
• He drafts ten paper titles and abstracts on AI applications (e.g., drone logistics, pixel analysis, dynamic image recognition, address recognition) and submits them to the system.
• The system detects 10 questions, costs 210 points, leaving him 125 points. He confirms the exchange and receives a deep injection of AI knowledge, though his skill points do not change.
• He vows to write all ten papers within a month.
• The next morning, he rushes to class with sleep deprivation. He encounters Chen Yushan, who notices an "eye gunk" on his face and wipes it off, embarrassing him.
• He attends Mathematical Modeling Competition training, where only Wang Xiaodong is present before the professor arrives. Professor Liu Xiangping enters at 8:00 sharp.

2. Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Demonstrates a pragmatic, almost cynical approach to academia—choosing topics based on ease of publishing. He is disciplined and determined (staying up late, showing up tired). His embarrassment over the eye gunk reveals a socially self-conscious side.
• Chen Yushan: Appears as a warm, teasing friend. She reveals she won a national second prize in the Mathematical Modeling Competition and offers to help Lu Zhou. Her "unkempt" appearance (glasses, simple hair) contrasts with her competence.
• Wang Xiaodong: Quiet and studious, only briefly acknowledges Lu Zhou before returning to his book. No significant development yet.

3. Significant Themes

• Academic corruption / "publish or perish": Lu Zhou intentionally targets journals that accept low-quality, formulaic papers; the chapter critiques the proliferation of meaningless academic publications, especially in AI and IT.
• Shortcut vs. genuine learning: The system exchange provides instant knowledge, but Lu Zhou admits he must still digest it—questioning the value of such shortcuts.
• Social awkwardness and humility: Lu Zhou’s mortification over his unclean face highlights the everyday comedy of a genius-like protagonist who is still human and flawed.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou ↔ Chen Yushan: Lighthearted banter. She teases him, then helps wipe his face; he is embarrassed. She offers academic advice and support.
• Lu Zhou ↔ Wang Xiaodong: Minimal—a nod and a greeting; both remain absorbed in their own work.
• Lu Zhou ↔ Professor Liu: No direct interaction yet; Liu simply arrives to start the training session.
• Lu Zhou ↔ System: Internal dialogue where he negotiates the point exchange; the system acts as a blunt, transactional tool.
  (Note: The chapter ends with the class beginning, so the modeling training itself is not yet described.)

Summary: Merchants and Attendants Modeling Problem

Key Plot Points and Events

• Professor Liu Xiangping meets the modeling team, but only Lu Zhou and Wang Xiaodong are present; Lin Yuxiang is late.
• The professor suggests a role reassignment: one person should handle both modeling and paper writing, while the other two focus on programming.
• Lin Yuxiang arrives late and apologizes.
• Professor Liu introduces a classic river-crossing problem: three merchants and three attendants. Lu Zhou solves it immediately through logic.
• The professor extends the problem to N merchants; Lu Zhou solves the general form on the blackboard without scratch work.
• Professor Liu delivers a lecture on the essence of mathematical modeling: converting real-world problems into data-driven language.
• He discusses essential software (MATLAB, Mathematica, LINGO, SAS) and recommends reference books.
• He provides restricted internal lecture materials to the students and dismisses them early.

Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Demonstrates outstanding mathematical intuition and earns respect from both the professor and Wang Xiaodong. He is polite, thoughtful, and willing to consider the professor's restructuring suggestion.
• Wang Xiaodong: Starts off detached and proud but becomes genuinely convinced of Lu Zhou's mathematical ability. He reveals his proficiency in MATLAB and SAS.
• Lin Yuxiang: Shows humility and accountability by apologizing for lateness, and expresses admiration for Lu Zhou's performance.
• Professor Liu Xiangping: Acts as a supportive yet practical mentor, offering competition strategy, technical guidance, and an encouraging but restrained teaching style.

Significant Themes

• The nature of mathematical modeling: It is fundamentally about translating real-world problems into mathematical forms, not just applying formulas.
• Teamwork and role distribution: Effective collaboration requires balancing individual strengths—modeling, programming, and writing—with a coherent overall structure.
• Preparation through practice: Broad knowledge and repeated practice are the only real shortcuts to success in modeling competitions.
• Mentorship: The professor provides direction, resources, and initial training, but emphasizes that students must ultimately teach themselves.

Character Interactions

• Professor Liu ↔ Lu Zhou: Warm and intellectually engaged; the professor tests Lu Zhou's abilities, and Lu Zhou earns his approval.
• Professor Liu ↔ Wang Xiaodong: The professor subtly validates Wang's programming expertise; Wang responds with quiet confidence.
• Lin Yuxiang ↔ Group: She enters with embarrassment, quickly shifts to admiration, and completes the standard team structure.
• Lu Zhou ↔ Wang Xiaodong: A quiet rivalry dissolves into mutual respect after Lu Zhou's demonstration of skill.

Summary: Breaking-In Training Chapter

1. Key Plot Points

• Teacher Liu distributes training materials and announces the first breaking-in training session for the math modeling competition team, to be held the next day in the computer lab.
• Lu Zhou prioritizes his system tasks over school materials, spending the evening finishing his first mathematics paper, which he submits to Communications in Mathematics and Applications.
• He plans to submit nine computer science papers to Modern Communications and Geographic Information Technology for manuscript fees (150 yuan each, totaling 1,350 yuan).
• The next day, the team gathers for training. Teacher Liu assigns a practical problem: analyzing fictional China Telecom user data to classify customers by consumption habits and design targeted products.
• Lu Zhou completes the mathematical modeling in about 30 minutes; Wang Xiaodong handles the programming efficiently. The task meant for a full day is finished in under two hours.
• Lin Yuxiang struggles badly with paper writing — she doesn't even know basic formatting and must search online for guidelines, making little progress.
• After class, Teacher Liu calls Lu Zhou into the hallway to ask if he's considered a suggestion made the previous day (regarding team leadership).

2. Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Demonstrates strong technical competence and pragmatic prioritization (system tasks over school tasks). He is growing frustrated with Lin Yuxiang's incompetence, though he maintains a composed exterior.
• Wang Xiaodong: Shows a slight thawing — he returns Lu Zhou's greeting (a "breakthrough" for the arrogant top student) and proves highly capable in programming.
• Lin Yuxiang: Reveals significant weaknesses in technical writing and paper composition; her inclusion in the team appears politically motivated rather than merit-based.
• Chen Yushan: Shows weaker mathematical foundations than implied; comfortable enough with Lu Zhou to bribe him with meals.
• Teacher Liu: Patient and observant, he seems to be cultivating Lu Zhou for a larger role and doesn't harshly punish Lin Yuxiang's failure.

3. Significant Themes

• Competence vs. Connections: Lin Yuxiang's presence highlights the tension between merit and politics in team composition.
• Team Dynamics: The "lubricant" role Lu Zhou contemplates playing — managing both talent (Wang Xiaodong) and weakness (Lin Yuxiang).
• Practical vs. Theoretical Knowledge: The training problem requires applying math to real-world business scenarios, shifting difficulty from formulas to problem translation.
• Academic Pragmatism: Lu Zhou's strategic journal selection based on fees (a "breath of fresh air" journal) shows the practical economics of academic publishing.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou & Chen Yushan: He tutors her in advanced math; she pays with meals. He silently justifies freeloading as compensation for his teaching, and his blunt complaints about her foundation amuse them both.
• Lu Zhou & Wang Xiaodong: Their collaboration is efficient and respectful — Lu Zhou passes modeling work to Wang for programming without friction. The morning greeting exchange signals growing mutual respect.
• Teacher Liu & Students: He praises Lu Zhou and Wang Xiaodong's exceptional performance, comforts the apologetic Lin Yuxiang, and privately seeks Lu Zhou's opinion on a team-related suggestion.
• Lu Zhou & Lin Yuxiang: No direct interaction described, but Lu Zhou's internal monologue (a "string of profanities") reveals his irritation at her unpreparedness.

Chapter Summary

Key Plot Points

• Lu Zhou and his Mathematical Modeling team are in training. Teacher Liu acknowledges that some team members are slacking but insists the national first prize is the only goal.
• Lu Zhou agrees to handle both the modeling and the paper, but negotiates: future training will be independent rather than group sessions. Teacher Liu accepts.
• Lu Zhou quickly writes a paper draft in competition format, leaving out less critical sections. Teammate Lin Yuxiang is impressed and apologizes for being a burden.
• Lu Zhou declines her dinner invitation and goes to the library to work on his own papers.
• He receives a call from “Fatty Wu” about a flier-distributing job (20 yuan/hour), but declines due to his workload.
• Chen Yushan (who studies beside him later) asks about the call and offers him a tutoring job: her high-school cousin in math, 200 yuan/hour, weekends only, starting in July. After a surprised pause, Lu Zhou accepts.
• The chapter ends with Lu Zhou reflecting ironically that he feels “so annoyed” by having too many opportunities.

Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Competent and efficient; prefers independent work over group training. Pragmatic about money but not desperate; negotiates conditions when asked to take on extra work. Shows dry humor in his internal thoughts.
• Teacher Liu: Flexible and experienced; understands team dynamics and accommodates capable students like Lu Zhou rather than forcing strict rules.
• Lin Yuxiang: Self-aware and apologetic; admits she lacks skill but promises to improve. Others, however, view her as a likely drag on the team.
• Chen Yushan: Observant and considerate; notices Lu Zhou’s financial situation and offers help. Slightly playful in conversation (calls him “harmless”).

Significant Themes

• Teamwork vs. Individual competence: The capable are often expected to carry others; Lu Zhou negotiates autonomy in exchange for shouldering more responsibility.
• Time management and autonomy: Lu Zhou dislikes wasted group sessions, values flexible scheduling for his many projects (papers, modeling, tutoring).
• Economic pressures on students: Part-time work is a recurring necessity; tutoring offers better pay than physical labor.
• Interpersonal dynamics: Mentorship from teacher, gratitude/apology from teammates, and a tentative friendship/possible romantic interest with Chen Yushan.

Character Interactions

• Teacher Liu ↔ Lu Zhou: Discussion about team strategy; negotiation of training format.
• Lin Yuxiang ↔ Lu Zhou: Gratitude and apology; Lu Zhou politely brushes her off.
• Wu Dahai ↔ Lu Zhou (phone): Casual offer of a low-paying job; Lu Zhou declines politely.
• Chen Yushan ↔ Lu Zhou: Friendly banter, curiosity about his part-time life, and the successful offer of a well-paid tutoring job. Lu Zhou ends with mock-exasperation.

Here's a summary of the chapter:

Key Plot Points

• Lu Zhou calls home and tells his mom he won't come home for summer break due to the National Mathematical Modeling Contest training (no fees; department covers it). He asks them to save money for his younger sister Tong's college.
• It's the end of his first year of college; finals period is underway.
• Lu Zhou submits his final paper, completing his mission: publishing 1 Mathematics paper and 9 Information Science papers in under a month (mission rating: S+, with 39 days remaining).
• He receives the mission rewards: 100 Mathematics XP, 900 Information Science XP, 800 points, and a lottery draw. Both Mathematics and Information Science level up from LV0 to LV1.
• He tests the system's limits by pricing the Beal Conjecture: 5,000 points and LV2 Mathematics required—too expensive, so he abandons it.

Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Shows responsibility toward his family (deferring home visits, declining money, thinking of his sister's future). Demonstrates deep dedication to his academic work, completing 10 papers in under a month. He's also intellectually curious, probing the system's mechanics and leveling system.
• Roommates' dynamic is casual, humorous, and affectionate—they joke around, tease Lu Zhou, and create a lively dorm atmosphere.

Significant Themes

• Ambition and sacrifice: Lu Zhou prioritizes academic/career opportunities over personal comfort (skipping summer break home).
• Growth through the system: The chapter explores how the system works—levels unlock databases rather than directly granting knowledge, and retrieving specific information costs points.
• Family duty vs. personal advancement: Lu Zhou balances familial obligations with his academic trajectory.
• Academic hustle culture: The relentless pace of writing and submitting papers despite finals—an example of the "publish or perish" pressure.

Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou & mother (phone call): A caring, reassuring son—he calms her worries, mentions getting money to his sister Tong, and keeps his tone light.
• Huang Guangming (in bathroom): Teases him ("Brother-in-law, calling home?"); Lu Zhou playfully threatens him; Guangming then sings horribly, prompting laughter.
• Liu Rui & Shi Shang: Liu Rui collapses laughing at Guangming's singing; Shi Shang jokingly volunteers to "take down" Guangming but is dismissed. The dorm dynamic is full of light banter and mock-antagonism.
• Lu Zhou & system: Frequent interaction—accepting mission rewards, testing limitations (Riemann Hypothesis, Beal Conjecture), and noting system behavior (silent responses, database-style point pricing).

Here is a concise summary of the chapter:

1. Key Plot Points & Events

• Lu Zhou checks his system status panel. His math and information science are at LV1 (0/10,000 experience); other core sciences are at LV0. He has 925 points and one unused lottery draw.
• He performs the lottery draw and, despite low expectations, receives a Focus Capsule (40 capsules, 5 hours each, boosts brain cell activity, knowledge absorption, and logical thinking).
• He activates a Reward Quest: complete a 30-book reading list (covering math, physics, chemistry, engineering, programming, etc.) to earn 1,000 freely allocable experience points and unlock a new "branch technology" — Artificial Intelligence (separate from Information Science).
• Lu Zhou completes the mathematical modeling for the weekly training problem sent by Teacher Liu and emails the package to his teammates Wang Xiaodong and Lin Yuxiang.
• In the dorm, class monitor Tian Jun announces a summer math modeling competition and class meeting. Liu Rui signs up, motivated by Lu Zhou's earlier participation.
• Lu Zhou casually reveals he has already registered for the competition. The chapter ends with him deciding to keep his perfect exam scores a secret.

2. Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Shows pragmatism and ambition. He is unimpressed by the system's disparaging comments about his "empty brain," yet uses the reward quest seriously to improve his knowledge. He is careful about his social relationships, choosing to hide his perfect scores from his roommates to avoid making them uncomfortable.
• Liu Rui: Demonstrates competitive drive and determination. Watching Lu Zhou sign up for the math modeling competition makes him feel pressured to keep up, so he joins as well, aiming for the national finals.
• Huang Guangming / Shi Shang: Remain casual and uninterested in academic competitions, providing a contrast to Lu Zhou's and Liu Rui's seriousness.

3. Significant Themes

• Knowledge as power: Lu Zhou's system explicitly values reading and comprehension, pushing him to expand beyond his current expertise.
• Humility and secrecy: Lu Zhou downplays his abilities to preserve social harmony with friends.
• Competition and motivation: Liu Rui's decision to sign up highlights how others are inspired (or feel threatened) by Lu Zhou's actions.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou's roommates avoid asking about his exam scores out of concern for his feelings (assuming he did poorly).
• Tian Jun (class monitor) visits the dorm to explain the math modeling competition and politely tries to cover a perceived awkwardness when Lu Zhou hesitates to answer about his scores.
• Lu Zhou reveals his registration in the competition, indirectly intensifying Liu Rui's desire to participate.

Summary: The Freshman Year's Final Class Meeting

Key Plot Points

• Counselor Zhang Wei holds the last class meeting of freshman year, covering summer safety and final exam results
• Advanced Algebra scores are announced: Luo Rundong scored 95, Liu Rui scored 92 — only two students scored above 90
• Major reveal: Lu Zhou received full marks in both Advanced Algebra AND Mathematical Analysis — his papers were re-graded by the university leadership and confirmed flawless
• The counselor reveals he wanted to sign Lu Zhou up for the College Student Mathematical Modeling Competition, but Lu Zhou was already registered through Professor Tang
• Liu Rui, who had been pleased with his score, is shaken by Lu Zhou's achievement and privately asks the class monitor about withdrawing from the math modeling competition
• The class meeting ends with Lu Zhou being mobbed by classmates jokingly begging to join his team

Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Established as an exceptional student despite a poor academic past. His transformation is recognized by faculty and students alike. He remains modest and tactful, politely declining the counselor's competition offer because Professor Tang already registered him
• Liu Rui: Experiences a crushing psychological blow. His smug satisfaction at scoring above 90 collapses when he realizes Lu Zhou has far surpassed him. His ambition to reach the national competition seems meaningless next to Lu Zhou's perfection — leading him to contemplate withdrawing entirely
• Luo Rundong: Shocked by the news; his status as the "mathematical genius" is implicitly challenged
• Counselor Zhang: Supportive and encouraging toward Lu Zhou, though clearly surprised by his transformation; has a self-deprecating sense of humor

Significant Themes

• Academic recognition vs. self-worth: Liu Rui's identity is tied to being the top student; Lu Zhou's success shatters his self-perception
• Transformation and redemption: Lu Zhou's dramatic academic improvement (from struggling student to full marks) is treated as almost unbelievable by everyone
• The pressure of comparison: Students are ranked and praised publicly, creating implicit rivalry between Luo Rundong and Lu Zhou, and deep insecurity in Liu Rui
• Humility in success: Lu Zhou downplays his achievement while others celebrate him
• Inspiration vs. intimidation: Some classmates use Lu Zhou's success as motivation; Liu Rui finds it demoralizing instead

Character Interactions

• Huang Guangming & Shi Shang (dormmates): Playfully tease Liu Rui after his score, then mob Lu Zhou for "good luck," showing how easily loyalty shifts
• Lu Zhou & counselor Zhang: Respectful exchange; Zhang praises him, Lu Zhou accepts modestly and tactfully reveals he's already registered for the competition
• Liu Rui & Tian Jun (class monitor): Awkward conversation about withdrawing from the modeling competition, revealing Liu Rui's internal defeat
• Lu Zhou & classmates: Themed jokes about getting "good luck" or joining his competition team, reflecting his new reputation as an academic star

Summary of "Maybe, This Was Talent?"

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Summer vacation begins. Lu Zhou's roommates Shi Shang and Huang Guangming leave campus; Lu Zhou and Liu Rui remain for the summer.
• Lu Zhou submits his on-campus residence application, then goes to the library.
• In the library, Chen Yushan has saved his usual seat. Lu Zhou selects a math book (Linear Algebra) from the system's reading list.
• Lu Zhou takes a "Focus Capsule" given by the system. It enhances his concentration and mental clarity, lasting roughly five hours before gradually wearing off. He studies intensely.
• Chen Yushan reminds him about the part-time job she mentioned earlier; they agree to meet at 9 AM Saturday so she can introduce him to her aunt.
• That evening, Liu Rui returns from a Mathematical Modeling Competition training meeting and sees Lu Zhou studying. He asks what Lu Zhou's "trick" is. Lu Zhou replies, "Maybe it was talent?" which visibly frustrates Liu Rui.

2. Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Shows strategic planning in his studies (choosing math first to build a foundation). He is aware of the risk of over-relying on the Focus Capsule and deliberately practices reading without it. He is practical about finances, wanting to earn next year's tuition. He is also guarded—unable to tell anyone about the system, which isolates him socially.
• Liu Rui: Demonstrates envy and frustration. Once competitive, he now feels hopelessly behind Lu Zhou. His pride is wounded when he humbles himself to ask for advice and receives an unhelpful, glib answer.
• Chen Yushan: Friendly and considerate; she saves Lu Zhou a seat and actively helps him find part-time work.

3. Significant Themes

• Talent vs. Hidden Advantage: Lu Zhou's "talent" is actually a system-assisted ability; the gap is unbridgeable for ordinary students, creating unfair competition.
• Academic Pressure and Peer Dynamics: The competitiveness between students, and how one's success can strain friendships.
• Foundational Learning: The importance of reading and understanding fundamentals (math as a base) before tackling advanced subjects.
• Dependency vs. Self-Reliance: Lu Zhou worries about becoming dependent on the Focus Capsule and tries to maintain normal study habits.
• Social Isolation: The protagonist cannot share his secret, forcing him into evasive and sometimes alienating answers.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou & Chen Yushan: Cooperative and warm. She saves his seat, reminds him of the job opportunity, and they make plans. This suggests a supportive relationship not built on academic rivalry.
• Lu Zhou & Liu Rui: Strained. Liu Rui's request for advice is a significant moment of humility, but Lu Zhou's deflection ("maybe it was talent") comes across as arrogant, causing Liu Rui to retreat. Lu Zhou internally regrets the exchange but sees no alternative.

Summary of Chapter: “Let's Play Chinese Checkers—I'll Let You Go First”

1. Key Plot Points & Events

• Lu Zhou sees Lin Yuxiang walking with a tall, unfamiliar guy and assumes she has a new relationship, feeling briefly sorry for Senior Wang.
• He meets Chen Yushan at the school gate at 9 a.m. She has dramatically changed her look (contact lenses, stylish bangs, casual outfit).
• They take a Didi to a café to meet Chen Yushan’s aunt, Yang Danyun, who turns out to be the chairwoman of Yali Fashion Co., Ltd.
• Yang Danyun interviews Lu Zhou briefly, then hires him on the spot as a math tutor for her daughter/cousin Mengqi, at 200 yuan/hour, weekends 1–6 p.m.
• After the aunt leaves, Chen Yushan brings out a Chinese checkers set and challenges Lu Zhou, offering to let him go first.

2. Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Practical, polite, and careful with money. He is nervous about tutoring and takes a professional, no-nonsense attitude. He also notices social class differences and tries to avoid offending the wealthy aunt.
• Chen Yushan: Playful, teasing, and more sociable than usual. She organizes the tutoring opportunity for Lu Zhou and clearly enjoys pushing his buttons.
• Yang Danyun (Madam Yang): Decisive, controlling, and businesslike. She values efficiency and trusts her sister’s recommendation of Chen Yushan. She is elegant but age-sensitive (doesn’t like being called “Auntie”).

3. Significant Themes

• Class and professionalism: The café setting, business card, and expensive tastes highlight the gap between Lu Zhou’s part-time worker mindset and the wealthy employer’s world.
• First impressions and assumptions: Lu Zhou misreads Lin Yuxiang’s relationship, and Chen Yushan’s appearance surprises him—appearances can be deceiving.
• Opportunity and inexperience: Lu Zhou is nervous about his first tutoring job but tries to act confident to earn the salary.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou & Chen Yushan: Lighthearted banter; she teases him for being punctual and for preferring coffee to more fun activities. Their dynamic is comfortable and slightly flirtatious.
• Lu Zhou & Yang Danyun: Formal and businesslike. She evaluates him quickly, gives instructions, and leaves without any small talk beyond what’s necessary.
• Chen Yushan & Yang Danyun: Familiar and affectionate (aunt and niece), but the aunt remains professional in front of Lu Zhou.
• Lu Zhou & Lin Yuxiang (indirect): He observes her from a distance and chooses not to greet her, showing courtesy and emotional detachment.

Summary

Key Plot Points

• Chen Yushan loses ten straight Chinese checkers games to Lu Zhou, despite moving first, and becomes frustrated, questioning her own intelligence.
• She insists on another round; Lu Zhou asks how she thought she was good, and she admits her confidence came from never losing to her parents in elementary school—Lu Zhou feels a bit sorry for her.
• At lunch, Chen teases Lu for eating a lot; he replies that he never gains weight no matter what, which draws envious stares from others.
• After returning to school, Lu Zhou goes to an empty study room. He finds Wang Xiaodong has sent the completed program via email, writes a Mathematical Modeling paper, packages it with the program, and submits it to Teacher Liu.
• At dinner, he runs into Professor Tang. Tang asks about his research; Lu Zhou mentions reading a paper on Mersenne primes and the GIMPS Project. Tang warns him that the field is niche, hard to produce results in, and poorly aligned with his current expertise—also suspecting Lu Zhou is chasing the cash reward. Tang advises him to stick with his existing research direction.

Character Developments

• Chen Yushan reveals a childlike, naive view of her own skill, showing both competitiveness and vulnerability.
• Lu Zhou demonstrates focused work ethic and a secretive, pragmatic approach to research (he doesn’t reveal his real reasons to Tang).
• Tang acts as a concerned mentor, but misunderstands Lu Zhou’s motives; he sincerely wants him to succeed in a more practical direction.

Significant Themes

• The conflict between personal research interest and academic practicality/reputation.
• The incompatibility of intrinsic curiosity versus external rewards (e.g., GIMPS prize money).
• Light social dynamics and mild envy around weight/appetite.

Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou & Chen Yushan: playful rivalry, with Chen persistently challenging and Lu making dry remarks that embarrass her.
• Lu Zhou & Tang: a serious mentor-student discussion about academic focus; Tang gives advice, but Lu does not fully open up, and they part with Tang urging him to reflect.

Chapter Summary: "The Proper Way to Use Black Technology Was Actually to Grind Yourself to the Bone?"

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Study Marathon: After dinner, Lu Zhou borrows a large stack of advanced math textbooks from the library (Analytic Geometry, ODE, Complex/Real Analysis, Functional Analysis, Topology, Differential Geometry)—about a third of the System's entire reading list. He begins another Focus Capsule session, studying through the night in a classroom until he collapses from exhaustion.
• Capsule Limits Tested: Lu Zhou discovers that the Focus Capsule's 5-hour effect can be extended if external distractions are eliminated and he keeps pushing himself. However, this overextension triggers headaches and eventually causes his body to force him unconscious. He concludes that taking the pill works best when paired with "grinding himself to the bone."
• Mission Progress: The System panel shows 2/30 books completed (Linear Algebra and Analytic Geometry), with Ordinary Differential Equations next.
• Tutoring Job Begins: Lu Zhou travels to the upscale Bauhinia Garden complex. After Madam Yang clears him with security, he arrives to witness a violent mother-daughter argument—Han Mengqi has smashed an ornament and locked herself in her room.
• The Setup: Madam Yang lays out terms: Lu Zhou teaches math from 1–6 PM, receives a key to her daughter's locked bedroom, is locked inside the house while Madam Yang leaves, and is informed that over a dozen surveillance cameras cover "basically no blind spots."
• Employment Stakes: If Han Mengqi scores over 100 on her pre-summer monthly exam, Lu Zhou's pay increases; if below 80, he's fired.

2. Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Shows intense dedication to the System's mission, willing to test dangerous limits. He remains pragmatic (takes a taxi since it's reimbursable), observant (notices the family dysfunction immediately), and professionally restrained (declines cigarettes, keeps opinions to himself despite internal judgment).
• Madam Yang: Revealed to be controlling and emotionally cold—she keeps a key to her daughter's bedroom, locks the house from outside, and monitors everything via cameras. Her interaction style is businesslike and intimidating, though a trace of weariness ("Starting now, I get off work...") hints she is stretched thin.
• Han Mengqi: Introduced indirectly—volatile and rebellious, yelling at her mother, slamming doors, refusing to come out. Has a monthly exam coming up and presumably struggles with math.
• Old Tang (Professor Tang): Though brief, his genuine worry over dinner reinforces he is the closest thing to a caring mentor Lu Zhou has.

3. Significant Themes

• "Grinding Yourself to the Bone": The chapter's core concept—the Focus Capsule is most effective when paired with extreme self-punishment (all-night study, pushing past exhaustion to a "clear-headed" breakthrough state). This hints at a problematic, unhealthy path forward.
• Class and Money: Juxtaposition between Lu Zhou's modest circumstances and the lavish Bauhinia Garden complex (he mentally notes he couldn't afford it even if he proved the Beal Conjecture). Wealth is tied to a dysfunctional, surveillance-heavy home life.
• Parenting and Control: Madam Yang's methods (cameras, locked doors, keys to her daughter's room) illustrate the difference between caring for a child and imprisoning her—despite her rationalization that it's "for her own good."
• Outside Identity vs. Inside Role: The title's question—Lu Zhou is given a legitimate "black technology" (the System pills) but the chapter shows the toll: he passes out mid-study, loses mornings, risks his health. There's a constant tension between short-term gains (mission progress) and long-term wellbeing.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou ↔ Old Tang: Brief but heartfelt—the professor's genuine concern moves Lu Zhou, though he resolves to continue regardless.
• Lu Zhou ↔ Madam Yang: Tense and transactional. Madam Yang's cold politeness (correcting him on the "teacher" title, offering a cigarette, then citing her surveillance setup) keeps him off-balance. Lu Zhou's internal commentary shows he dislikes her methods but keeps it to himself.
• Madam Yang ↔ Han Mengqi: Heard through the security door—an argument ending in a slammed door and broken glass. This sets up the adversarial dynamic Lu Zhou must navigate.
• Lu Zhou ↔ Han Mengqi: No direct contact yet; their entire relationship is mediated through Madam Yang's instructions and a bedroom key.

Summary of "The Rampaging Cockroach"

1. Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Zhou, hired by Madam Yang to tutor her daughter Han Mengqi, is given a house key. He knocks, but Han Mengqi refuses to open the door, threatening to call the police.
• Lu Zhou decides not to force entry and instead takes Madam Yang's materials into the living room, reviewing Han Mengqi's academic records. He notes her poor math scores (below 80/150) but decent Chinese and English.
• A scream from Han Mengqi's room interrupts him. Rushing in, he finds she is terrified of a cockroach. He kills it and then, driven by his obsessive-compulsive habit, thoroughly cleans her messy room—removing trash, snack wrappers, and dirt.
• After cleaning, he goes back to the living room and creates a structured study outline based on Han Mengqi's weaknesses, covering the four required high school math textbooks.
• Around 5:30 PM, Han Mengqi finally emerges (having needed the bathroom). She sees his work, shows curiosity, but remains hostile. Lu Zhou suggests she wait for her mother to have dinner together; Han Mengqi gives a cold, bitter smile and hints that Madam Yang has already messaged something negative.

2. Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Demonstrates patience, professionalism, and a strong work ethic. His obsessive-compulsive nature leads him to clean the room, and he diligently prepares a tailored tutoring plan despite the student's hostility. He remains calm and unprovoked by threats.
• Han Mengqi: Reveals a tense, antagonistic relationship with her mother (calling her "that woman"). She is initially hostile and withdrawn but shows glimpses of vulnerability (fear of cockroach, embarrassment at her mess). She is surprised by Lu Zhou's respectful behavior and his unexplained efforts, which slightly weakens her defensive stance.

3. Significant Themes

• Tutor-student dynamics: Lu Zhou's methodical, caring approach contrasts with Han Mengqi's resistance, highlighting the challenge of reaching a difficult student.
• Family conflict: The deep rift between mother and daughter is emphasized through Han Mengqi's cold remarks and her reaction to Lu Zhou's mention of her mother.
• Order vs. chaos: Lu Zhou's cleaning of the messy room symbolizes his attempt to bring structure to Han Mengqi's academic and personal life.
• Academic pressure: The chapter underscores the struggle of a student with weak foundations and the importance of tailored teaching.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou & Han Mengqi: Initially adversarial—she threatens police, he remains calm and logical. Their interaction shifts when he saves her from the cockroach and cleans her room, causing her to become less confrontational but still guarded. He gently criticizes her habits; she reacts defensively.
• Lu Zhou & the environment: He interacts with the physical space (cleaning, organizing) as a means to engage with the student indirectly.
• Han Mengqi's internal conflict: Her interactions reveal a mix of defiance, shame, and curiosity, especially when she sees Lu Zhou's study outline.

Chapter Summary: “Treating Money Like Dirt”

Key Plot Points and Events

• Lu Zhou learns that Madam Yang cannot return home until late because of a company meeting. To compensate him for the delay, she offers to double his tutoring rate for the extra hours.
• With only frozen sandwiches available and the family’s kitchen largely unused, Lu Zhou decides to cook dinner for Han Mengqi.
• He prepares stir-fried cabbage, shredded chicken with peppers, and rice. Han Mengqi is suspicious of the food at first but quickly eats several bowls, revealing how infrequently she has proper home-cooked meals.
• After dinner, Lu Zhou cleans the kitchen while encouraging Han Mengqi to continue studying. He reviews her math mistakes and tries to persuade her not to give up despite her poor academic performance.
• Han Mengqi admits that she barely studied during the previous semester and believes her situation cannot easily be changed. Lu Zhou counters that she still has the ability to improve if she is willing to try.
• As they spend the evening together, their initially awkward relationship gradually becomes more comfortable. Han Mengqi thanks him for the meal and asks whether he will cook for her again.
• Lu Zhou agrees on the condition that she studies seriously. She reluctantly promises to try.
• Madam Yang returns around eleven o’clock. She and Han Mengqi barely interact, and Han Mengqi retreats to her room after giving her mother a defiant look.
• Madam Yang sees Lu Zhou’s study outline and thanks him. Lu Zhou advises her not to pressure Han Mengqi excessively and encourages better communication.
• Madam Yang pays Lu Zhou 3,000 yuan for ten hours of tutoring, causing him to marvel at the casual way wealthy people spend money and at how much the payment increases his own savings.

Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Demonstrates practical kindness, responsibility, and domestic competence by cooking and cleaning for Han Mengqi. He becomes more emotionally perceptive, recognizing that her academic apathy is connected to neglect and family problems. He also takes a more encouraging, patient approach to tutoring rather than relying only on criticism.
• Han Mengqi: Initially defensive, suspicious, and hostile, she gradually responds to Lu Zhou’s genuine care. Her eagerness to eat suggests emotional and domestic neglect, while her confession about her parents’ divorce reveals her difficult home life. Though she still resists studying, she begins to trust Lu Zhou and agrees to make an effort.
• Madam Yang: Remains distant and businesslike, but her payment and apology show that she recognizes Lu Zhou’s effort. Her relationship with Han Mengqi is revealed to be strained, with work and family conflict preventing meaningful communication.

Significant Themes

• Kindness breaking through hostility: Lu Zhou’s simple actions—cooking, cleaning, and offering encouragement—gradually soften Han Mengqi’s resistance more effectively than force or criticism.
• Neglect and loneliness: Han Mengqi’s dependence on sandwiches, her mother’s absence, and her parents’ court battle suggest that her poor academic performance stems partly from emotional isolation.
• The importance of communication: Lu Zhou advises Madam Yang that forcing Han Mengqi will only backfire and that she needs space to establish her own pace.
• Money and class difference: Lu Zhou’s modest financial situation contrasts sharply with Madam Yang’s willingness to pay thousands of yuan without hesitation, highlighting the gap between them.
• Responsibility versus avoidance: Han Mengqi tends to give up before trying, while Lu Zhou insists that she still has the ability to improve if she accepts responsibility for her studies.

Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou and Han Mengqi: Their relationship shifts from tutor and rebellious student to something more trusting and familial. Their shared meal and later conversation create a bond based on mutual recognition rather than authority.
• Han Mengqi and Madam Yang: Their silent, strained exchange emphasizes their emotional distance. Han Mengqi’s defiant reaction suggests resentment toward her mother’s absence and controlling behavior.
• Lu Zhou and Madam Yang: Their interaction remains polite and professional, but Lu Zhou goes beyond tutoring by offering advice about parenting and emotional support.

Summary: Chapter — Tutoring, Routine, and Han Mengqi's First Real Lesson

1. Key Plot Points & Events

• Lu Zhou treats Chen Yushan to malatang as thanks for the tutoring job referral (deciding after Liu Rui carelessly suggests it).
• Chen Yushan asks about her sister's math progress and explains that Han Mengqi's parents have relationship problems and are fighting over custody; Mengqi currently lives with her aunt.
• Lu Zhou receives two emails: (1) feedback from Teacher Liu on his Mathematical Modeling assignment; (2) a journal reply (Modern Communications and Geographic Information Technology) paying him 1,350 yuan (150 per paper for nine SCI papers). He laments that academic pay is worse than tutoring.
• Lu Zhou settles into a strict weekly study routine (Mon/Wed/Fri cramming; Tue/Thu previewing other subjects; daily modeling practice). He reflects that the system merely accelerates what good habits would achieve anyway.
• During Saturday tutoring, Han Mengqi has cleaned her room and claims she reached Analytic Geometry with no questions. Lu Zhou tests her with a question she previously missed; she barely solves step one. He teaches her the method and then gives a harder follow-up problem, which she fails; he patiently walks her through it.
• Lu Zhou tells her to keep an error notebook, comparing it to buying wards as a support. She excitedly asks if he plays League of Legends (he's on Blackberry server) and demands his QQ; he flicks her forehead and tells her to get 100 on math first.

2. Character Developments

• Lu Zhou: Shows a patient but sharp-edged teaching style; demonstrates consistent self-discipline and a pragmatic attitude toward money and academia; firm about priorities (school over games).
• Han Mengqi: Shows genuine improvement (has been following the outline) and a brief, sincere moment of humility ("I know I'm stupid"); remains stubborn and game-obsessed but becomes noticeably more receptive to Lu Zhou's teaching.
• Chen Yushan: Reveals her concern for her sister and the family situation; casually mentions Lu Zhou's "sharp tongue" to her sister.
• Liu Rui: Minor — easily irritated while gaming; gives careless, indifferent advice.

3. Significant Themes

• Study habits & methodology: Active problem-solving and learning from mistakes (error notebook) versus passive reading.
• Economic reality of academia: Publication pay (150 yuan/paper) vs. practical work (tutoring) — intellectual labor undervalued.
• Mentorship & patience: Effective teaching requires adapting to the student, not just lecturing.
• Family strain affecting students: Mengqi's parents' custody dispute as background to her academic struggles.
• Discipline vs. distraction: The tension between games and schoolwork, enforced by Lu Zhou's firmness.

4. Character Interactions

• Lu Zhou & Liu Rui: Casual dorm exchange; Liu Rui's offhand "Malatang" suggestion shapes the chapter's opening scene.
• Lu Zhou & Chen Yushan: Friendly meal; she checks in on her sister's progress; he listens (with limited interest) to the family backstory; he walks her back to the dorms.
• Lu Zhou & Han Mengqi: The core interaction — a test-teach-retest cycle. She resists initially, then shows genuine engagement. Brief moment of connection over League of Legends is cut short when he enforces boundaries. She reveals (indirectly) that her sister called Lu Zhou "sharp-tongued."
• Chen Yushan (off-screen): Referenced as vouching for Lu Zhou's teaching ability and warning Mengqi about his personality.

章节概括：卢舟遭遇网络攻击

1. 关键情节与事件

• 傍晚六点，卢舟按约定在韩梦琪家做饭，用冰箱里的食材做了麻婆豆腐和西红柿炒鸡蛋。
• 韩梦琪吃得很开心，但闲聊中提到“姐姐不喜欢吃辣”，卢舟意识到自己之前似乎把她和“妹妹”混淆了，有些尴尬，打算以后请对方吃饭道歉。
• 晚饭后，卢舟收到杨丹云（韩梦琪母亲）的微信转账1000元，并附言“谢谢”。
• 卢舟在校门口接到室友刘瑞的电话，说“出大事了”。
• 回到宿舍，刘瑞给他看一篇微博长文《论当代华夏大学学术风气——从一篇本科生的论文说起》，作者是拥有百万粉丝的“教育评论家”朱方财。
• 文章点名批评某京州大学、姓卢的本科生，一个月内发表9篇SCI论文，称其为“学术毒瘤”。
• 卢舟一脸懵，表示自己不认识对方，也不理解为什么被攻击。
• 两人商量后决定不理睬，“爱演独角戏就自己演”，卢舟随后去图书馆自习。
• 但事情并未结束——因为卢舟正是京州大学的学生。

2. 人物发展

• 卢舟：为人务实、关心家人（提到为妹妹做过辅导），面对网络攻击起初愤怒，但选择冷静处理、不予理会；同时有点木讷，因搞混“妹妹”身份而尴尬。
• 韩梦琪：活泼好奇，喜欢卢舟做的菜，羡慕别人有哥哥，甚至幻想妈妈再婚能给她带来一个哥哥；与卢舟逐渐熟络。
• 刘瑞：有点嫉妒卢舟，但并没有恶意，关键时刻会及时通知；性格带点幸灾乐祸，但也讲义气。

3. 重要主题

• 网络暴力与不实指控：一篇标题宏大、内容空泛的文章，仅凭“论文数量和期刊”就给人扣上“学术毒瘤”的帽子，反映了网络舆论的随意性。
• 个人能力 vs 外界评价：卢舟凭自己的本事发论文，却被陌生网友公开抨击，体现公众舆论可能对个人造成压力。
• 家人与陪伴：韩梦琪对“有哥哥”的向往，卢舟对妹妹的维护，都体现了家庭感情的主题。
• 社交媒体的传播力：百万粉大V的一篇文章足以迅速引发关注，即使卢舟本人并无微博。

4. 人物互动

• 卢舟与韩梦琪：一边做饭一边聊天，气氛轻松；韩梦琪好奇他的过去，卢舟也耐心回答；韩梦琪开始信任他，甚至聊到父母离婚的话题。
• 卢舟与杨丹云（间接）：她暗中补充食材，并主动转账致谢，说明她对卢舟的认可。
• 卢舟与刘瑞：刘瑞用调侃的语气告知坏消息，卢舟回怼，但两人仍是一致对外的室友关系。

Key plot points and events

• An article by education commentator Zhu Fangcai accuses Jinling University of lax academic standards after claiming that undergraduate Lu Zhou published nine SCI computer science papers in one month. The post triggers a wave of online criticism.
• University leaders hold an emergency meeting. They decide to publicly defend the papers’ academic value, demand an apology through a lawyer’s letter, and investigate what happened by speaking with Lu Zhou.
• Lu Zhou watches the hostile Weibo discussion and tries to respond, but his comments attract no attention. Frustrated, he realizes the public is reacting to a scandal narrative rather than checking the facts.
• Professor Tang summons Lu Zhou to an office meeting with senior mathematics and computer science staff. Lu admits he published the papers, explaining that he divided his research into nine papers partly to earn the journal’s submission payments.
• The professors question whether Lu wrote the work himself. He insists he did, describing the study and reading he undertook to understand it. They accept his explanation and tell him the university will defend him, while asking him to speak up publicly when appropriate. Lu agrees.

Character development

• Lu Zhou shifts from anger and helplessness toward relief and cooperation. He is initially tempted to lash out, but keeps his composure before the professors and accepts the university’s support.
• Professor Tang is concerned about Lu and tries to establish the facts, though he is startled by the scale and circumstances of the publications.
• The university leaders and professors move from confusion and reputational anxiety to a decision to protect both the university and its student.
• Zhu Fangcai is presented as a provocative commentator whose claims drive the controversy, despite the professors’ view that he lacks relevant technical expertise.

Significant themes

• Public opinion versus truth: Online users largely accept a sensational accusation without examining the papers or hearing from Lu.
• Academic credibility and reputation: The controversy forces the university to address not only the work itself but also broader doubts about its academic culture.
• Institutional responsibility: The university recognizes that Lu’s conduct reflects on the institution and chooses to defend him while emphasizing the need to respond responsibly.
• Recognition and influence: Lu’s firsthand comments are ignored because he lacks online prominence, illustrating how visibility can matter more than evidence.

Character interactions

• At the emergency meeting, professors debate the papers’ quality while university administrators focus on the damage to the school’s reputation.
• Lu’s attempts to argue with Weibo users go unnoticed, deepening his sense of isolation.
• In Tang’s office, Tang, Director Lu, and Zhang question Lu about the papers; Lu explains his process and motivations.
• Zhang reassures Lu that the university believes in his ability and intends to respond publicly, while Director Lu urges him to recognize his responsibility as a university student.

Key Plot Points and Events

• Wang Wei, president of Shunfeng Group, browses trending topics on Weibo and comes across an article about an undergraduate who published nine SCI papers.
• Liang Shenghao, technical director of Shunfeng's drone logistics R&D center, shows Wang Wei a computer science journal containing the undergraduate's papers, impressed by the ideas and algorithms presented.
• Wang Wei decides not to immediately offer the undergraduate a job, instead planning to wait until the undergraduate is frustrated by criticism, then make a grand offer to secure his loyalty.

Character Developments

• Wang Wei: Displayed his shrewd business acumen and patience, choosing to wait before offering the undergraduate a job to secure his loyalty.
• Liang Shenghao: Showed his technical expertise and understanding of the industry, recognizing the value of the undergraduate's research.

Significant Themes

• Talent acquisition and retention in the tech industry.
• The value of practical research and implementation over mere ideas.
• The importance of emotional attachment in employee loyalty.

Character Interactions

• Wang Wei and Liang Shenghao: Wang Wei values Liang's technical opinion, and Liang respects Wang's business acumen, leading to a productive discussion about the undergraduate's potential.
• Wang Wei and the undergraduate (Lu Zhou, implied): Wang Wei plans to use the criticism the undergraduate is facing to his advantage, waiting until Lu Zhou is frustrated before offering him a job.

Plot points and events

• After Jinling University sends Zhu Fangcai a lawyer’s letter and posts academic editors’ statements defending Lu Zhou’s papers, Zhu ignores the demands to retract and apologize.
• Zhu publishes a provocative follow-up post, casting himself as a defender of academic integrity and repeating claims that Lu’s nine papers were plagiarized, ghostwritten, or mere “filler.” He deliberately reveals Lu’s name to attract attention, and the post quickly gains support and engagement.
• When a university staff member phones to request an apology, Zhu refuses, demanding outside proof of both the papers’ value and Lu’s authorship. He ends the call without resolving anything.
• Lu Zhou has been inundated with both requests for paid paper-writing and abusive messages, but he largely shrugs them off. Chen Yushan checks on him, offers dinner, and encourages him; Lu appreciates her support but has an interview scheduled.
• In an interview with Jinling Daily, Lu calmly explains that the papers concern a developing area—AI applications in drone logistics—and that he had researched the subject before writing them. He calls Zhu’s accusations baseless and offers library surveillance footage as evidence that he wrote his work.
• Lu reveals that he had already published two mathematics papers, one before the nine computer-science papers. By his count, that makes ten papers in a month. Director Lu worries this disclosure may worsen public suspicion, but Lu intentionally chooses to respond boldly rather than stay quiet.
• The interview is interrupted by news that New York University has sent a letter of thanks addressed to Lu Zhou.

Character developments

• Zhu Fangcai shows himself to be driven by fame and engagement more than truth: the lawyer’s letter delights him because it provides material for further publicity. He doubles down on accusations and presents himself as a whistleblower.
• Lu Zhou remains composed under online abuse and public scrutiny. He decides that a restrained defense will not overcome the rumor-driven controversy, so he openly emphasizes his achievements and challenges his accuser’s claims.
• Chen Yushan demonstrates personal concern and faith in Lu, offering emotional support when he is under pressure.
• Director Lu supports his student but is cautious about how Lu’s disclosures may play in the media.

Significant themes

• Publicity versus truth: Zhu exploits controversy for followers, while the online crowd often reacts before examining evidence.
• Academic integrity and proof: The dispute turns on authorship and the papers’ value, but each side questions the other’s credibility and authority.
• Reputation in the digital age: Online attention brings both opportunities and harassment, and public opinion can become difficult to correct.
• Confidence under pressure: Lu chooses transparency and a forceful public response rather than allowing others to define his work.

Character interactions

• Zhu confronts Jinling University through posts and a phone call, refusing its request for an apology.
• Chen Yushan offers Lu Zhou reassurance and companionship; he responds warmly but postpones dinner because of the interview.
• During the interview, Lu answers the reporter’s questions directly and uses the exchange to counter Zhu’s claims, despite Director Lu’s concern.
• The chapter ends with the university staff’s excited announcement, setting up a potentially important new development in Lu’s defense.