The God of Wealth starts with doing whatever you want

In July, a special meeting was held quietly at the Bureau of Academic Affairs of the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Beijing.

The contents of the meeting are not known to the outside world.

But three days later, a news story quietly appeared in a prominent position in major mainstream media outlets.

"The results of the 202X election of academicians of the Chinese Academy of Engineering have been announced, with 65 new academicians, the youngest of whom is only 29 years old..."

The news article did not name names directly, but included a blurry profile photo.

That was a snapshot taken by Xu Yun at a technical seminar.

Those who know him well will recognize him at a glance.

Those unfamiliar with him will only marvel at the mystery surrounding this "youngest academician".

The news caused an uproar.

The top spot on Weibo's trending topics list was instantly taken by the "29-year-old academician," with views exceeding 300 million within half an hour.

"29 years old? I'm 29 and still haven't graduated with my PhD!"

"What level of contribution would it take to be granted such an exceptional honor?"

"The photo is blurry, but he looks pretty handsome?"

"According to inside sources, this bigwig is involved in the military industry, but I can't say the specifics."

"Be careful what you say upstairs, this level of information is definitely classified."

……

Jiangcheng, Donghu Villa.

Xu Yun sat in his study, with more than a dozen news pages open on his tablet at the same time.

He rubbed his temples, feeling both amused and exasperated.

"An academician? Me?"

The phone rang at that moment, and the caller ID showed "Academician Chen Wenyuan".

"Old Chen." Xu Yun answered the phone.

"Xu Yun, you've seen the news, haven't you?"

Chen Wenyuan asked with a smile in his voice, "How about it, are you surprised?"

"It wasn't just a pleasant surprise, it was downright shocking."

Xu Yun smiled wryly and said, "Professor Chen, what exactly happened? I remember there are strict age and seniority requirements for the selection of academicians, and I..."

"It was specially approved."

Chen Wenyuan's tone became serious.

"The first phase of verification for the stealth fighter project has been completed, and all three core technologies you provided have passed real-world testing."

The J-XX prototype conducted its test flight last week, revealing a radar cross-section 15% lower than expected, improved maneuverability by 40%, and an estimated structural lifespan more than three times greater.

He paused, then said with some excitement, "Do you know what this means?"

This means that China's generational advantage in fighter jets has gone from theory to reality.

The Central Military Commission, the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense, and the Chinese Academy of Engineering held three joint meetings and ultimately decided that you must be given an official position commensurate with your contributions.

"But the title of academician..."

"You can handle it."

Chen Wenyuan interrupted him and said, "It's not just the three of us old guys who jointly recommended it; all seventeen academicians in the aerospace field have signed it."

The Chinese Academy of Engineering held three special review meetings. Although the three technical papers you submitted were abridged versions, they had already convinced all the review experts.

Xu Yun remained silent for a few seconds.

Those three papers were written at Chen Wenyuan's request: a mathematical proof of eddy current control theory, a phase transition mechanism of gradient nanocrystalline materials, and an electromagnetic model of adaptive plasma stealth.

In order to publish the paper, he removed all sensitive data and engineering details, keeping only the basic theory.

Even so, the three papers still made it to the cover of Science in China, Acta Materials Science, and Acta Electronica Sinica, respectively.

"The title of academician is not just an honor, but also a form of protection."

Chen Wenyuan lowered his voice and said, "With this identity, all your activities in the country will be much more convenient."

If certain foreign forces want to take action against you, they'd better think twice.

After all, attacking a national academician is completely different from attacking an ordinary businessman.

Xu Yun understood.

This is the "protective charm" that the country gave him.

"Thank you, Mr. Chen, and thank you to all the seniors," he said sincerely.

"Don't thank us, you earned it yourself."

Chen Wenyuan smiled and said, "By the way, the appointment letter and certificate have been sent out and should arrive tomorrow."

The Academy of Engineering would like to invite you to give a report next month.

Of course, the content is publicly available.

"I will definitely go."

After hanging up the phone, Xu Yun leaned back in his chair and let out a long sigh.

The study door was gently pushed open, and Zhong Yanyan walked in carrying a fruit platter. Seeing his expression, she laughed and said, "What's wrong? Aren't you happy being an academician?"

"It just feels...too sudden."

Xu Yun took the fruit platter, forked a piece of watermelon, and laughed, "I originally only wanted to be a behind-the-scenes consultant, but now I've been pushed to the forefront."

"But Academician Chen is right, this is for protection."

Zhong Yanyan sat down next to him and said softly, "Now that you're so popular, you're attracting a lot of attention. Crescent Island, Yungang Capital, and all that technology... having an official identity would definitely make you safer."

Xu Yun nodded and held the watermelon to her mouth.

"Try it, it's quite sweet."

Zhong Yanyan took a bite, then suddenly remembered something and said, "By the way, Jay Chou is having a concert in Jiangcheng next week, and tickets are selling like hotcakes."

Ning Qian finally managed to get a few VIP tickets, saying she wanted to celebrate your becoming an academician, and that everyone should go together.

"Jay Chou?"

Xu Yun raised an eyebrow and asked in return, "You all like it?"

"He doesn't just like it, Li Jinshu is a die-hard fan of his. He buys every album and even uses 'Seven Mile Fragrance' as his ringtone."

Zhong Yanyan laughed and said, "Want to go? First row in the VIP section, the kind where you can see faces clearly."

Xu Yun thought for a moment and smiled: "Go, why not go? Just consider it a relaxing trip."

……

One week later, at Jiangcheng Sports Center.

By 7 p.m., the stadium, which can hold 60,000 people, was already packed.

The glow sticks formed a sea of ​​stars, and the cheers of the fans were deafening.

VIP1 section, third row.

Xu Yun sat down surrounded by a group of women.

On the left are Zhong Yanyan and Li Jinshu, on the right are Su Mu and Ning Qian, and in the back row sit Liang Yan, Yang Siqi, Song Xiaowei and Xinuo.

The mother, Zhang Sujuan, stays at home taking care of the children.

Busy Jiang Peiyao had an unexpected meeting and unfortunately had to miss it.

"That's way too close!"

Li Jinshu excitedly grabbed Xu Yun's arm and exclaimed, "Look at the stage! You can even see the instruments clearly!"

It is indeed very close.

The VIP area is right in front of the stage, no more than ten meters away.

On stage, the band was making final adjustments, and staff members were moving back and forth.

"Where did you get the tickets?" Xu Yun asked Ning Qian.

"I asked a friend in the Cultural Bureau for help."

Ning Qian wore a light purple dress today, which made her look particularly gentle. She smiled and replied, "The VIP area was originally sold out long ago, but the organizers temporarily set aside two rows, saying that they were reserved for 'special guests'."

Xu Yun understood.

It's probably her new identity that's making the difference.

At less than 30 years old, he is the youngest head of a multi-billion-dollar conglomerate in the country, which is enough to make any event organizer take him seriously.

At 7:30, the lights suddenly dimmed.

The entire stadium erupted in a deafening roar of screams.

In the center of the stage, a rising platform slowly ascended, revealing Jay Chou in a black studded jacket, as the music intro began—

"Nunchucks!"

Li Jinshu almost jumped up and shouted along with the whole audience.

"Use the nunchucks! Heh heh ha heh!"

Xu Yun looked at her with a smile.

This usually decisive female CEO in her company completely transformed into a little fan, waving a glow stick and singing and dancing.

One classic song after another was performed.

"Sunny Day," "Nocturne," "Blue and White Porcelain," "Confession Balloon"... the entire audience sang along almost non-stop.

Although Xu Yun wasn't a die-hard fan, these songs were so familiar that she couldn't help but hum along.

When singing "Simple Love," Jay Chou walked to the edge of the stage, squatted down, and interacted with the audience in the front row.

"Hello, friends over there!" He pointed to the VIP area.

The camera immediately followed, and a close-up of Xu Yun's area appeared on the big screen.

Six women with different styles but all outstanding looks surround a young man, and the scene itself is very eye-catching.

Wow, what a handsome guy and beautiful girl combination!

Jay Chou joked, "Hey handsome, aren't you feeling a lot of pressure bringing so many girls to your concert?"

The audience burst into laughter.

Xu Yun was surprised to be called on, paused for a second, then smiled and waved towards the stage.

"It seems the pressure isn't too great."

Jay Chou laughed and said, "Then... how about requesting a song? What would you like to hear?"

The women all turned to look at Xu Yun.

Xu Yun thought for a moment and then said loudly, "Let's make 'Rice Fragrance'!"

"Alright, here's 'Rice Fragrance' for everyone!"

As the music began, a warm melody flowed throughout the venue.

Xu Yun particularly likes this song, especially the line "Go home, go back to the original beauty," which always reminds him of his experiences.

After singing "Rice Fragrance," the song request and interaction segment began.

Jay Chou randomly selected seat numbers, and the selected audience members could request songs and even go on stage to interact with the audience.

"Section B, Row 2, Number 15!" the host announced.

A bespectacled boy appeared on the big screen, so excited he was incoherent, and requested the song "Coral Sea".

"Next up, VIP1, row 3, seat 7!"

The beam of light hit Li Jinshu.

She was stunned until applause and cheers erupted around her before she realized it was her.

"It's me?" She pointed to herself, looked at Xu Yun, her eyes full of surprise.

Xu Yun smiled and nudged her, "Go quickly."

Li Jinshu took a deep breath and walked onto the stage under the guidance of the staff.

Under the spotlight, she wore a white dress, her long hair flowing over her shoulders, exuding an outstanding aura.

Wow, beautiful girl!

Jay Chou walked up to her and asked, "What's your name?"

"My name is Li Jinshu." She took the microphone, her voice trembling slightly.

It wasn't nervousness, it was excitement.

"Miss Li, which song would you like to request?"

Li Jinshu calmed his breathing, turned his gaze to Xu Yun below the stage, and smiled, "I'd like to request 'Confession Balloon,' but... I have a small request."

"Oh? What request?"

"I want to sing this song myself."

Li Jinshu's face flushed slightly as she said, "This is for the man I like."

"Oh--"

The crowd erupted in cheers and whistles.

Jay Chou laughed and said, "So romantic? Okay, band, 'Confession Balloon'!"

The prelude begins.

Li Jinshu held the microphone, her gaze never leaving Xu Yun.

When she sang, "My dear, I fell in love with you, and from that day on, sweetness came so easily," her eyes sparkled.

Her singing wasn't professional, but her emotions were genuine.

Especially the chorus, it's almost like he's putting all his effort into confessing his love:

"Darling, don't be stubborn, your eyes are saying I do—"

After singing the last line, she walked off the stage and, escorted by security guards, returned to the VIP area, where she stood in front of Xu Yun.

The music continued.

Li Jinshu looked at Xu Yun and said softly, "This song is specially for you."

Xu Yun stood up and gently hugged her.

"Thank you," he whispered in her ear.

……

The concert ended at 11 p.m. The group left through a special passage to avoid the crowds.

Three Maybachs were waiting in the parking lot, and they took them back to Donghu Villa.

On the bus, Li Jinshu was still immersed in excitement.

"I actually shared the stage with Jay Chou! I even sang! Oh my god..."

"She sang very well."

Xu Yun held her hand and smiled, "I didn't expect you to sing so well."

I participated in a choir in college.

Li Jinshu leaned on his shoulder and said, "But to sing in front of 60,000 people... that's insane."

"Romantic to the point of madness."

Ning Qian, who was in the front row, turned around and smiled, "Didn't you see the close-up on the big screen? Xu Yun's expression at that time was both surprised and moved."

Zhong Yanyan also laughed: "It will definitely be trending on social media tomorrow, 'The most romantic confession at Jay Chou's concert'."

"Don't……"

Li Jinshu covered her face and said, "I acted on impulse at the time."

"Good thing you were impulsive."

Su Mu also jokingly said, "Some things can only be said in this kind of occasion, and they can even move someone."

"..." Xu Yun.

Back at the villa, the children were already asleep.

Zhang Sujuan prepared a late-night snack: a pot of steaming hot wontons.

The group sat around the restaurant, eating and chatting.

"I have a really happy day."

Yang Siqi scooped up some wontons and said, "It feels like I've gone back to my university days, carefree and without a care in the world."

"Yes, it's been a long time since I've felt this relaxed."

Liang Yan didn't cause any trouble today, and nodded, saying, "Since I started getting busy with company matters, concerts, movies, shopping... these kinds of entertainment activities have almost disappeared from my life."

Song Xiaowei looked at Xu Yun and smiled, "Thank you for taking us there."

"Of course."

Xu Yun said, "I haven't had much time to spend with you lately. Once things are on track at Crescent Island and Yungang Capital's major projects have stabilized, we can arrange more events like this in the future."

"Speaking of Crescent Island..."

Zhong Yanyan put down her spoon, not bothering to avoid the other women, and said, "Isabella sent me a message this afternoon saying that all the equipment in the Signals Intelligence Lab has arrived and installation and testing will begin next week."

She asked if you wanted to take some time to go and have a look.

"Next week won't work; I have a report to complete at the Academy of Engineering."

Xu Yun thought for a moment and replied, "The week after next, I'll fly over and stay for two days."

Zhong Yanyan asked, "What about Natasha?"

"She's making good progress in Cyprus and has already recruited her first informant, a former Mossad agent who was marginalized due to internal strife and is now working for us."

Xu Yun took a sip of soup and said, "The European intelligence network has been initially established."

The women exchanged glances.

They all knew what Xu Yun was doing, although they didn't know the specific details, but they had a clear understanding of the general outline.

He wants to build his own security system to protect everything he wants to protect.

"Oh, right."

Ning Qian suddenly remembered something and said, "During the concert today, I noticed a few unfamiliar faces in the VIP area who kept looking in our direction."

Xu Yun's eyes narrowed: "What kind of person?"

“Three men, in their thirties, dressed plainly but with an air of nonconformity to ordinary audience members.”

Ning Qian recalled, "They didn't sing along much; they spent more time observing their surroundings. When the show ended, I paid special attention and noticed that they left through the staff exit."

"People from the National Security Bureau."

Xu Yun immediately judged and said, "They must be here to protect me, or rather, to monitor me."

After my status as an academician was announced, I became a 'national treasure,' so it's normal for me to have security when I go out."

"Will there be any danger?" Li Jinshu asked worriedly.

"With them around, it's actually safer."

Xu Yun comforted him, saying, "This shows that the country values ​​my safety, and..."

He paused for a moment and then smiled, "If there are any problems, Crescent Island will give us an advance warning."

Isabella is currently monitoring the movements of 700 key figures worldwide, and she will know immediately of any unusual activity targeting me.

"Oh."

As night deepened, the women gradually returned to their rooms to rest.

Xu Yun went to the study alone and turned on the encrypted computer.

A daily briefing from Isabella popped up on the screen.

The defense system of Crescent Island has been upgraded, with the addition of a quantum radar detection module.

The Cyprus intelligence station has officially commenced operations, codenamed "Athena".

A report released by a US think tank was detected, mentioning that "a young Chinese academician is suspected of being involved in the military industry," but without naming names.

Former Philippine naval intelligence officer Santos died unexpectedly, suspected of being silenced.

Tomorrow, Wuhan will have sunny skies with temperatures ranging from 28 to 35 degrees Celsius, making it a good time for travel.

After reading it, Xu Yun replied: "Strengthen the data link between 'Athena' station and Crescent Island, and enable the quantum encryption channel."

The US think tank report will continue to monitor the situation and will report any further developments immediately.

Additionally: The identities of today's concert security personnel have been verified. If they are from the National Security Bureau, normal communication channels will be established to avoid misunderstandings.

A few minutes later, the reply came.

"Understood. The security personnel are indeed from the Ninth Bureau of the National Security Bureau, and a one-way communication channel has been established."

Also: Jay Chou's team has inquired whether today's interactive clips can be used for promotional purposes. Please approve.

Xu Yun thought for a moment and said, "I agree, but only keep the singing part and cut out the hugging scene."

"The message has been conveyed."

After finishing these tasks, Xu Yun turned off the computer and walked to the window.

The East Lake is tranquil and peaceful under the night sky, with the city lights twinkling in the distance.

He recalled that at the beginning, he only wanted to live a simple and wealthy life. He never expected that he would gradually come to where he is today, possessing enormous wealth, cutting-edge technology, a private island, and a group of confidantes who truly care about him.

Now, he has another academician title.

This title brings not only honor and protection, but also responsibility.

The fact that the country has given him this status means that its expectations of him are also greater.

Stealth fighters are just the beginning; there will be many more projects and challenges in the future.

But Xu Yun was not afraid.

He has the system as his greatest support, Crescent Island as his rear base, "Dark Eye" as his intelligence network, and the people around him who are willing to stand with him through thick and thin.

"Let's take it one step at a time," he murmured to himself.

The door was gently pushed open, and Zhong Yanyan walked in wearing pajamas, carrying a cup of hot milk.

"Still not asleep?"

"I need to take care of something."

Xu Yun took the milk and asked, "Why aren't you asleep either?"

"Look at you."

Zhong Yanyan walked to his side, and together they looked out the window. She asked, "What were you thinking when Li Jinshu was singing on stage today?"

Xu Yun thought for a moment and said, "How lucky I am."

"Lucky?"

"I'm lucky to have met you all, and lucky to have the ability to protect everything I want to protect."

Xu Yun put his arm around her shoulder and couldn't help but sigh, "Sometimes when I wake up in the middle of the night, I'm afraid it's all a dream."

Zhong Yanyan leaned against him: "It's not a dream, we are real, and our feelings are real too."

The two stood quietly for a while, then Zhong Yanyan suddenly asked, "If... I mean if, one day you had to choose between New Moon Island and our current life, which would you choose?"

Why do we have to choose?

Xu Yun countered, "Crescent Island is a fallback, an insurance policy, but not a prison."

We can live in Jiangcheng and go on vacation to the island every year.

When the children grow up, they can choose the lifestyle they prefer.

Striving in the city, or living in seclusion on an island.

The important thing is that the choice is in our own hands.

Zhong Yanyan smiled: "That's the biggest difference between you and other men."

You never considered women and children as your possessions; you gave us freedom, not a cage.

"Because you weren't originally."

Xu Yun said earnestly, "Each of you has your own career and your own dreams."

All I've done is provide a platform so that you can pursue the life you want more safely and with greater ease.

"Including finding other women?" Zhong Yanyan raised an eyebrow.

Xu Yun coughed and said, "This is... a problem left over from history."

"He got the benefit but is still acting innocent."

Zhong Yanyan poked his chest, but wasn't really angry, and said, "But to be honest, things are pretty good as they are now."

Everyone gets along well, the children have playmates, and you can focus on your work with peace of mind.

She paused, then said softly, "As long as you have each and every one of us in your heart, that's enough."

Xu Yun lowered his head and kissed her forehead: "Forever."

……

The next day, just as Zhong Yanyan had predicted, "Jay Chou's most romantic confession at his concert" became a trending topic.

Although the hugging scene was cut, the video of Li Jinshu singing still circulated.

Netizens speculated about "who the lucky man was," but because Xu Yun's image was deliberately blurred and the news about the academician had been circulating for several days, no one connected the two events.

Only a very few sharp-eyed people could tell from the blurry profile and figure that it might be the same person, but such speculation was quickly drowned out by the sea of ​​information.

At 10:00 AM, the express delivery arrived from the Academy of Engineering.

Opening the exquisite wooden box reveals an academician certificate with gold lettering on a red background, as well as a weighty academician badge.

The certificate states:

"Comrade Xu Yun: In recognition of your outstanding contributions to the field of aerospace engineering, and having been elected by the plenary session of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, you are hereby awarded the title of Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering. This certificate is hereby issued."

The document was signed by the president of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and stamped with a bright red official seal.

The women gathered around, taking turns holding and looking at the certificate.

"it's beautiful."

Su Mu carefully touched the badge and said, "This must be the dream of so many scientific researchers."

“Now he belongs to your man.” Ning Qian said with a smile.

"Put it away."

Xu Yun put the certificate back in the box and smiled, "This is not only an honor, but also a responsibility."

Just then, my phone rang.

It is Academician Chen Wenyuan.

"Xu Yun, did you receive the certificate?"

"Just received it, thank you Mr. Chen."

"Don't thank me, you deserve it."

Chen Wenyuan's tone became more serious as he said, "I'm calling to inform you that your academician induction report will be given next Wednesday at 9:00 AM in the Chinese Academy of Engineering auditorium."

You can decide on the content, but here are a few directions I suggest you consider.

First, the development trend of aviation technology; second, interdisciplinary integration and innovation; and third, the cultivation of young scientific and technological talents.

Forty minutes are allotted, with twenty minutes reserved for questions.

"Understood, I'll get ready."

"besides……"

Chen Wenyuan lowered his voice and said, "After the report, there will be a small group meeting. Several leaders would like to meet with you."

The main purpose is to hear your views on the future development of technology, especially... those 'cutting-edge' technologies.

Xu Yun understood immediately: "I will prepare well."

After hanging up the phone, Xu Yun pondered for a moment.

"Busy again?" Li Jinshu asked.

"I have a report next Wednesday, and then I might have to go to Beijing for a few days."

Xu Yun looked at them and asked, "What about you? What are your plans next?"

"I'm flying to Hong Kong next Monday to discuss a merger and acquisition deal," Li Jinshu said.

“The gallery is having an exhibition of new artists next weekend, and I need to oversee the setup,” Su Mu said.

Zhong Yanyan said, "I need to fly to Shenzhen to see my dad and talk to him about the chip industry."

Ning Qian, Liang Yan, Yang Siqi, and Song Xiaowei also have their own work arrangements.

Xu Yun smiled.

None of his women were just pretty faces; they all had their own careers and were working hard.

That's good! (End of Chapter)