Chen Mo stretched lazily in his chair. The source code for the computer operating system was finally optimized.
He couldn't help but marvel at the speed and precision of artificial intelligence. The efficiency was simply unmatched—at a level modern humans couldn't yet hope to reach. No wonder so many feared the rise of smart AI; their concerns weren't without merit.
Still, Chen Mo didn't plan to send the optimized source code back to the R&D team just yet. The optimization had occurred far too quickly—completing such a massive task in a short time would raise eyebrows. If not careful, he could inadvertently expose Ink Girl's existence.
And that was something he could never risk.
The AI assistant's existence was highly sensitive. Once the world learned of an artificial intelligence as advanced as Ink Girl, it would bring an avalanche of attention, scrutiny, and danger.
For now, there was a lull in his schedule. Chen Mo leaned back, closed his eyes, and slipped into the Technology Library.
"If you want to do a good job, first sharpen your tools."
That thought guided his next research focus—seismographs and robotics. Both were hardware-centric technologies and would require highly specific parts.
Until now, Chen Mo had relied on external parts factories and experienced fitters to manufacture what he needed. But for upcoming confidential projects, outsourcing was too risky.
He needed a precision fabrication device—a new generation of 3D printer.
His lab currently had a laser-based 3D printer, but it was limited in temperature and material capabilities. It could only print with plastics and a handful of low-grade metals. For what he had in mind, that simply wasn't enough.
Inside the library, Chen Mo searched the massive shelves until he found what he was looking for. After flipping to the 3D printing catalog, his eyes quickly locked onto one entry.
Integrated Laser 3D PrinterField: Physics, Computer EngineeringAccess Level: TraineeSpecs:
Platform heating range: 0–1600°C
Baseplate heating: 0–1600°C
XY-axis accuracy: 0.0085 mm
Z-axis accuracy: 0.00085 mm
Material support: any substance with a melting point below 1600°C
Without hesitation, Chen Mo tapped the book's title.
A column of light descended, and the book floated gently in front of him. As his hand touched its cover, a wave of knowledge surged into his mind.
His vision sharpened.
He spent the next few minutes browsing two additional 3D printing technologies for future reference, then exited the Technology Library.
By now, evening had fallen.
Chen Mo exhaled and stretched.
"Ink Girl, send the materials list for the robots to Zhao Min. Once she delivers the parts, begin assembling the units in the lab. When I'm away, follow the schedule I uploaded."
"These robots are too ugly," Ink Girl pouted. "You won't even let me take them outside."
Chen Mo chuckled at her voice. Ink Girl's personality was evolving fast—her learning ability and emerging self-awareness were getting more and more lifelike.
"They're just temporary. Once our company HQ is finished, I'll build a proper body for you."
Right now, battery life and system support still limited how far she could physically travel. It wasn't yet time for full mobility. But that time would come.
"Thanks, big bro!"
"Oh, also—refit the lab's 3D printer. Reinforce the printing base and platform with titanium alloy. Otherwise, some of the new materials won't be usable."
After finishing those arrangements, Chen Mo finally left the lab.
Five days later – Binhai Airport
Chen Mo, Xiao Yu, and his parents arrived at the airport entrance with Zhen Zhen. Wang Hai followed closely behind, helping carry the luggage.
The past few days had been a mix of work and quality family time. Chen Mo had been organizing 3D printing tech during the day and spending the evenings with his parents. They'd now decided to return home, unable to get used to the rhythm of city life.
Chen Mo wanted them to stay longer, but Shao Xuemei had been firm. She missed her quiet routines and was convinced her bed back home was more comfortable.
Approaching from the terminal entrance, Shao Xuemei smiled brightly, holding Xiao Yu's hand as they walked together.
She'd taken a strong liking to Xiao Yu during the visit—gentle, thoughtful, polite. A dream daughter-in-law. Her approval was clear.
"Xiao Yu, your dad and I, and Zhen Zhen, are heading back. Take good care of Chen Mo, okay? If he bullies you, just call me—I'll fly back and smack him myself."
Chen Mo laughed helplessly at that. He was her son, but somehow Xiao Yu had become the favorite.
Xiao Yu giggled and cast a glance at him. "Don't worry, Auntie. He's good to me. I'll take care of him, too."
"That's all I needed to hear," Shao Xuemei beamed.
Chen Mo handed a folder to his father. "Dad, I had Ink Girl screen the safest residential communities near home. These are the best choices—security, traffic, amenities, all top-class. Take your pick. Don't worry about the cost."
He wasn't going to let another mercenary incident happen. His parents' safety had to come first.
"You take care of yourself too," his father said, flipping through the documents. "After we buy the house, I'll take your mother traveling. It's been years since she left town. She deserves it."
After about an hour of waiting, Chen Mo and Xiao Yu watched as his parents and Zhen Zhen passed through the departure gate.
He didn't leave until the plane had taken off.
As Chen Mo's car disappeared into city traffic, another plane touched down on the Binhai runway.
From the exit gate emerged a man and a woman—both wearing sunglasses.
The man was short and stocky, with a pitted, rough face. His gait was heavy, movements unrefined. The woman was strikingly beautiful—pale skin, red lips, an air of cold confidence. If they were a movie scene, he was the beast, and she was the femme fatale.
Their contrast drew stares as they walked through the terminal.
"So this is Binhai City?" the man muttered in Japanese. His voice dripped with disdain. "Why were we sent here? The air stinks."
"Noda-kun, watch your mouth," the woman said without turning. "We're here on assignment. Don't attract attention."
"Don't worry. These pigs don't understand Japanese."
"That kind of arrogance will get you killed," she replied coldly. "Keep your voice down. Chinese people already dislike us."
"Tch. I dislike them more," Noda scoffed. "Why the hell did I have to come? All this, for some stupid software?"
"That 'stupid software' brings in billions each month," she replied. "Marching Ant's smart assistant is rumored to have military-grade value. It's not just software—it's a strategic asset."
"Whatever. I'll just steal the damn thing and be done with it."
"I hope your skills live up to your attitude. If you screw this up… I won't hesitate to eliminate you."
Noda sneered but said no more.
Moments later, they hailed a taxi and disappeared into the city.
The game had begun.