In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

Yang Guangming sat at his desk, the desk lamp casting a soft glow that illuminated the letter spread out in front of him.

Outside the window, the night in Stanford is quiet and deep, broken only by the occasional chirping of insects.

His fingers unconsciously tapped lightly on the table, making a soft, rhythmic "tap-tap" sound, as if keeping time for the thoughts churning in his mind.

Larson's exaggerated and excited congratulations still lingered in my ears, and Lewis's sincere and appreciative gaze remained vivid in my mind.

He was very clear that he had to handle this matter carefully and solemnly—by giving a detailed and truthful report to his superiors.

Applying for personal patents and inventing in one's spare time is not uncommon in American campus culture, especially in an environment that encourages innovation and entrepreneurship like Stanford, and is even widely encouraged.

Therefore, in his initial monthly reports on his thoughts and learning progress submitted to the liaison office, he did not specifically mention this matter as a key point.

After all, those thirty patents, which are still in a "provisional" state, are more like a kind of knowledge exploration and technical attempt based on personal interest before they generate any practical value. They fall into the category of making reasonable use of spare time and do not meet the standard of "major situation" that needs to be reported urgently.

However, today is different.

A single patent, just one patent, was bought out entirely by a global industry giant like Coca-Cola for a staggering $1.6 million.

This number, in the context of 1979, would have caused a huge stir anywhere in the world.

For our motherland, which is striving to open its doors to the world, is in the early stages of reform and opening up, has extremely tight foreign exchange reserves, and is trying to make the most of every penny of the US dollar, this money is of paramount importance.

It is no longer just a matter of personal luck; it is more likely to involve a wider range of issues.

He was not an ordinary international student, but a government-sponsored student sent to the United States for further studies, carrying the expectations and trust of his motherland.

His position is special, and his every move, especially when it involves such significant economic interests, must not be arbitrary; he must proactively place himself under the management and supervision of the organization.

Concealing information is a fundamental error, not permitted by discipline, and could even lead to a series of unnecessary misunderstandings and far-reaching troubles, which is detrimental to both the individual and the country.

This is not just a simple procedural issue, but a matter of principle concerning stance and attitude.

He picked up the pen, slowly unscrewed the cap, his expression very solemn, and then began to write.

He deliberated and pondered over the title of the report for a long time before finally writing a neat and powerful line at the top of the page: "Detailed Report on Personal Patent Application and Successful Commercialization and Transfer of a Patent".

He decided to use the most formal and rigorous document format within the organization, paying meticulous attention to everything from the salutation to the wording, to show the seriousness of the matter in his mind.

In his report, he first reviewed his studies and life at Stanford University in a concise and sincere manner, emphasizing the initial progress of his doctoral research under the guidance of Professor Hoffman, and once again expressed his gratitude for the country's training, the university's support, and the care and guidance of the liaison office.

This is a necessary prelude, intended to show that he has always prioritized his academic and research tasks and has never slacked off.

Then, he smoothly and clearly got to the point.

He wrote that, while struggling to complete his heavy academic and research tasks, he had some initial ideas for technological improvements and inventions based on his long-standing personal interests, his keen observation of daily life, and the new ways of thinking he encountered in the United States.

In order to put these abstract ideas into practice and transform them into concrete technical solutions, and also to gain a deeper understanding of the U.S. intellectual property protection system and its operation process, he decided to apply for some "provisional patents" at his own expense after consulting with professional lawyers.

He particularly emphasized the two key points of "self-funded" and "provisional patent" to illustrate that this was entirely a personal matter, with relatively low initial costs and manageable risks.

Patent application is a long process. He only briefly mentioned that some patents are in the process of being applied for, without listing all the specific items in detail. He only highlighted that the "Improved Series of Plastic Bottled Water Patents" that was bought out this time is one of them.

Then, in an objective and straightforward tone, he detailed how, with the efficient assistance of patent attorney Larson, he collaborated with non-exclusive attorneys to carry out commercial promotion.

He mentioned how Larson, the attorney, used his personal professional network to successfully pique the interest of relevant departments at Coca-Cola, and described in detail the process of the other party sending a high-level negotiation team led by senior advisor Mr. Lewis to Palo Alto for face-to-face negotiations.

He didn't elaborate much on the specific details and strategic maneuvering involved in the negotiations, maintaining necessary brevity. He simply objectively described the difficulty of the negotiation process and the final outcome—Coca-Cola was willing to permanently acquire all rights to the patent series worldwide for a total price of $1.6 million.

He also noted in the report that a copy of the key pages of the patent assignment agreement had been attached to the report.

In the final part of the report, which was also the part he carefully considered and repeatedly refined, he clearly and earnestly stated his position and attitude.

He wrote solemnly: "My opportunity to study at a top university like Stanford University is inseparable from the country's careful cultivation over the years and the people's selfless support."

Any small achievement I have made, including the successful transfer of this patent, is fundamentally based on the education I received from my motherland and the organization's unwavering trust and expectations of me.

Although, according to relevant U.S. laws, this patent was applied for and granted independently by me, the proceeds from its commercial transfer should legally belong to me personally.

But deep down I firmly believe that every step of my growth is inseparable from the organization's nurturing.

Therefore, I hereby solemnly propose to the organization that I am willing to hand over the entire proceeds from this patent transfer, namely the portion of US$1.6 million that ultimately belongs to me, to the state without reservation.

This is to express my deep gratitude to my motherland for nurturing me over the years, and to express my hope that I can contribute my humble efforts to the country's modernization.

I urge the organization to study and approve my request.

Whatever decision the organization ultimately makes, I will resolutely obey without question. I will continue to focus wholeheartedly on my academic studies, striving to complete my studies as soon as possible and return to my country to serve my motherland with my acquired knowledge.

After writing the last word, Yang Guangming gently put down his pen, as if he had unloaded a heavy burden.

He carefully blew on the damp ink to dry the paper, then checked it word by word from beginning to end. He ensured that the wording was precise and rigorous, and that the attitude was upright and clear, clearly explaining the situation and fully expressing his intentions, leaving no room for misunderstanding or ambiguity.

He carefully stapled the report, which contained complex emotions, along with the meticulously prepared photocopies of the attachments, and then put it into a thick, sturdy kraft paper document bag.

The next day was Saturday, and there were no classes scheduled on campus. Yang Ming got up early, carefully dressed, and took a bus to downtown San Francisco.

He first went to the bank and efficiently and discreetly handled the fund transfer and account management matters. In accordance with the agreement, he accurately transferred the first ten percent commission belonging to Larson's lawyer to the other party's designated account.

Despite the dizzying string of numbers in his account balance, he remained unusually calm.

He then went to the Bay Area office of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the United States, located near Chinatown in San Francisco.

This is a simple, unassuming gray building, but the solemn national emblem hanging at the entrance gives it a sense of reassurance and warmth.

He walked up the steps with practiced ease, pushed open the slightly heavy wooden door, and entered the office of the Education Section, which was mainly responsible for international student affairs.

He was greeted by a young staff member surnamed Zhang, who was mainly responsible for daily contact with these international students, understanding their thoughts and feelings, and handling document receipt and dispatch. They were quite familiar with each other.

"Hello, Comrade Zhang." Yang Guangming greeted him politely with a smile.

"Comrade Yang, hello, hello!" Comrade Zhang looked up and a warm smile immediately appeared on his face. "What brings you here today? Is there something you need for your studies?" He had a very good impression of this doctoral student who had performed exceptionally well at Stanford and had been repeatedly praised by his advisor.

“I have a rather important personal report,” Yang Guangming said, showing the seemingly ordinary but heavy file folder in his hand, his tone becoming more serious. “It needs to be submitted to Counselor Liu as soon as possible.”

I wonder if Counselor Liu is in his office today, and if it would be convenient for me to meet with him? I hope that while submitting my written materials, I will also have the opportunity to give him a brief oral report and explanation.

Upon hearing this, a barely perceptible look of surprise and confusion flashed across Zhang's face.

According to standard procedures, the general reports from international students are usually received and registered by these grassroots staff members, who then forward them to the relevant leaders as appropriate.

Unless it involves extremely important, urgent or sensitive matters, it is necessary or permitted to have a direct meeting with a counselor-level leader to report.

He couldn't help but look again at the thick kraft paper document bag in Yang Guangming's hand, and then carefully examined the unusually solemn expression on Yang Guangming's face. He immediately realized that this excellent Comrade Yang had made a special trip today, probably not for ordinary business.

“Counselor Liu is indeed in his office today.” Comrade Zhang’s tone became more formal as he subconsciously did. “However, at this time, he is processing some documents and his schedule is quite full. Comrade Yang, please have a seat for a moment, and I will go in and ask for your instructions.”

After he finished speaking, he turned around and quickly walked into the closed office door in the inner room.

Yang Guangming sat down on a bench against the wall at the reception desk, sitting up straight and waiting quietly.

Time passed slowly, and after about half an hour, Comrade Zhang came over, gestured for Yang Guangming to come in, and said in a low voice, "Comrade Yang, Counselor Liu said that you can see him now. Please come with me."

"Thank you." Yang Guangming immediately stood up and followed the staff member Zhang into the office.

Counselor Liu's office was not spacious, but simply and practically furnished: a large, dark-colored desk with a floor-to-ceiling filing cabinet behind it, neatly stacked with various files; a slightly worn fabric sofa and a glass coffee table were placed by the window for receiving visitors.

Counselor Liu was sitting behind his desk, his brows slightly furrowed, intently reviewing a document.

He looked slightly more tired than when Yang Guangming last met him, and the wrinkles around his eyes seemed deeper, but his eyes still retained their sharpness and insight.

Seeing Yang Guangming enter, he put down his pen and a gentle smile appeared on his face: "It's Comrade Guangming, please have a seat here. Xiao Zhang, go and pour Comrade Guangming a cup of hot tea."

"Counselor Liu, I'm very sorry to bother you during your busy schedule." Yang Guangming sat down upright in the hardwood chair opposite the desk, and gently placed the file bag on the table near Counselor Liu.

"I won't bother you. That's just how work is."

Consul Liu smiled, his tone carrying the praise of an elder for an outstanding junior, "You are now a 'star student' among our international students. You earned your doctoral degree as soon as you arrived in the United States. That's really amazing!"

He paused, his gaze naturally falling on the file folder, and asked, "I heard from Xiao Zhang that you have something important to report in person?"

At this moment, Comrade Zhang brought in a steaming cup of tea, gently placed it on the corner of the table in front of Yang Guangming, and then quietly withdrew, closing the door behind him.

“Yes, Counselor Liu.” Yang Guangming took a deep breath and decided to get straight to the point, no more beating around the bush. “It’s about some personal matters that I think are very important, and I have an obligation to give the organization a detailed and truthful report as soon as possible.”

He tapped the file folder lightly with his finger and continued:
"This is the detailed written report I have prepared."

The gist of the matter is this: I used my spare time to research and apply for some personal patents. These were mainly minor improvements and inventions for everyday items.

Originally, it was just out of interest, and I also wanted to learn about the US patent system.

Unexpectedly, through legal representation and business maneuvering, one of their patents, concerning improvements to the structure and sealing of plastic bottled water, caught the eye of Coca-Cola.

He paused deliberately at this point, quickly observing Counselor Liu's reaction.

Counselor Liu maintained a gentle smile, but his eyes now held a hint of focus and inquiry, and he unconsciously straightened up slightly.

Yang Guangming continued, speaking in as calm and objective a tone as possible:

"Just a few days ago, my patent attorney and I had a final meeting with the official negotiation team sent by Coca-Cola in Palo Alto."

After several rounds of negotiations, they finally agreed to offer $1.6 million to buy out all global rights to the patent, including ownership, usage rights, and subsequent development rights.

The legal agreement has been formally signed, and the first installment has been transferred to my designated account.

"How much?" Counselor Liu's smile froze instantly, as if he had been struck by something.

He leaned forward abruptly, bracing his elbows on the table, his sharp eyes fixed on Yang Guangming, as if he were extremely doubtful that he had a problem with his hearing.

“One million six hundred thousand US dollars, you heard me right.” Yang Guangming repeated clearly, word by word, to make sure there was no room for misunderstanding.

A sudden, almost suffocating silence fell over the office; you could hear a pin drop.

Counselor Liu's gaze, almost tangible, slowly moved from Yang Guangming's young and calm face to the seemingly ordinary brown paper document bag in front of him, as if he wanted to use his willpower to penetrate the bag and immediately verify the authenticity of the words inside.

Although the undisguised shock on his face flashed by like lightning and was quickly suppressed by his strong self-control, Yang Guangming still keenly caught the momentary contraction of his pupils and the subtle stiffness of his facial muscles.

One million six hundred thousand US dollars!

Counselor Liu is all too aware of what this number means in this day and age!

Last year, in 1978, the total amount of foreign exchange reserves that the entire country had painstakingly accumulated was only about 167 million US dollars.

A student sent abroad by the government, who had just arrived in the United States, was able to obtain a huge sum of money equivalent to nearly one percent of the country's precious foreign exchange reserves simply by virtue of a patent he called a "minor improvement"!
This is simply unbelievable, like something out of a fairy tale!

If he hadn't known Yang Guangming's consistently calm, reliable, and truthful character, he would have almost immediately suspected that this was a clumsy joke or a misunderstanding.

He subconsciously took a deep breath, trying to get his vocal cords back to normal, and tried to make his voice sound as steady as possible, but the slightly raised tone still betrayed the turmoil in his heart:

"One million six hundred thousand dollars... to buy out a patent?"
Comrade Guangming, you...you don't have to rush. Tell me slowly and clearly explain the whole story.

How did you come up with the idea of ​​applying for a patent? What specific type of patent could have such high value? How did the entire negotiation process go? Were there any other people acting as intermediaries?

A barrage of questions came out of his mouth like a machine gun, revealing the immense shock he felt and the seriousness with which he took the matter.

This has gone far beyond the scope of regular international student affairs and has risen to a level that requires extreme caution.

Yang Guangming was mentally prepared for this.

He picked up the report materials on the table, handed them to Counselor Liu with both hands, and said:

"Counselor Liu, I have written down the entire process, details, and relevant legal documents in this written report as comprehensively and objectively as possible."

This includes my initial intentions and the specific process of applying for the patent, the general classification of the patent fields involved, and the main process and final legal terms of this negotiation with Coca-Cola, from initial contact and technical evaluation to formal negotiations.

He didn't just open the report materials and read them verbatim, as that would seem too rigid.

Instead, relying on clear memory and thought process, he used highly summarized language to recount the entire ins and outs of the event in a clear and organized manner, including how the idea came about, how he consulted lawyer Larson, how he applied for a provisional patent, how the lawyer promoted it, how Coca-Cola became interested and quickly dispatched Lewis's team, the main disagreements in the negotiations, and the final compromise.

Throughout the narrative, he deliberately obscured the specific source and total amount of the costs for applying for a provisional patent, repeatedly emphasizing that it was "personally funded" and focusing on explaining that provisional patent applications are characterized by relatively low costs, relatively simple procedures, and limited protection periods.

He highlighted the crucial role of Larson as a professional in business promotion, as well as the business efficiency and decision-making speed demonstrated by Coca-Cola as an international giant.

His tone remained steady and calm throughout, and his arguments were as clear and logical as an academic report. He neither became complacent or exaggerated because he had received a large sum of money, nor did he deliberately downplay or conceal the sensitive nature of the matter. Overall, he gave people a sense of objectivity, calmness, and trustworthiness, as if he were stating a third-party matter that had little to do with his own interests.

Consul Liu listened quietly, his face expressionless, only his fingers unconsciously tapping lightly on the smooth tabletop, making a soft "tap-tap" sound.

His brow furrowed slightly as he pondered, and relaxed slightly as he understood a particular aspect.

He needed time, enough time to digest this sudden and overwhelming information, and to quickly analyze its nature, impact, and the various problems that might arise from it.

When Yang Guangming concluded his more than ten-minute oral statement with "That's the basic situation of the whole incident," the office was once again filled with a heavy silence.

Counselor Liu pondered for a full minute, as if sorting out his thoughts or carefully considering his words, before slowly speaking, his tone unusually serious and low: "Comrade Guangming."

He first set the tone: "Your ability to proactively and promptly report this extremely special situation to the organization immediately after it happened demonstrates a high level of organizational discipline and a willingness to accept supervision, which is commendable and praiseworthy."

This fully demonstrates that you have a strong sense of organization, discipline, and principles, and that you are clear-headed.

He then changed the subject, his tone becoming more serious: "However, the situation you are facing... is unprecedented among all the students we have sent abroad in the past, there is no precedent to follow."

An individual applying for a patent in the United States and obtaining such a huge amount of commercial income raises entirely new questions about the relationship between the individual and the collective, and between the individual and the state. It also touches upon the ambiguities in our policies regarding the management of overseas students, the ownership of intellectual property rights, and the recognition of legitimate personal income under the new circumstances.

Regarding how to handle it and how to define its nature, I personally... cannot give you any preliminary advice or answer, nor do I have that authority whatsoever.

He picked up the file folder, which now seemed unusually heavy, and weighed it in his hand, as if assessing the immense value and potential impact it represented:

"This matter is special in nature and involves a huge amount of money. I must immediately report to the main leaders of the San Francisco Liaison Office. At the same time, in accordance with regulations, I must prepare a special report and urgently request instructions from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Education, and other relevant higher-level departments."

The final decision on how to handle the situation requires a special study by the relevant higher authorities, and may even require inter-departmental coordination.

This will take time.

“I understand, I fully comprehend the organization’s procedures and disciplinary requirements.”

Yang Guangming immediately expressed his opinion, his tone resolute.

At the same time, he presented his well-thought-out core stance, which is also the most crucial message he wanted to convey in this report:

"Counselor Liu, in the final part of this written report, I also clearly and formally expressed my personal wishes and firm attitude."

Although, according to the U.S. legal system and patent system, this money legally and compliantly belongs to my personal name.

But deep down I firmly believe that the opportunity I have to stand on the Stanford campus today, and to access this cutting-edge knowledge and an environment that inspires creativity, is fundamentally based on the country's cultivation and investment in me over the years.

"Without the country's selection and assignment, I wouldn't have been able to come to Stanford, and none of this subsequent opportunity would have existed." He paused, allowing the weight of his words to settle, then his tone became more sincere, even carrying an undeniable resolve:

"Therefore, in my report, I formally and solemnly propose to the organization:"

I personally am willing to hand over all the remaining proceeds from the $1.6 million patent transfer, after deducting the lawyer's commission and taxes payable according to the agreement, to the state unconditionally.

I personally will not take a single penny.

How this fund is ultimately used and in which aspect of national development is entirely up to the organization's arrangements.

This is my duty as a young student who has been nurtured by the country for many years.

"Hand it all over? Not a single penny left?" Counselor Liu was genuinely moved this time, and could even be described as deeply shocked.

He couldn't help but scrutinize the young man before him again, trying to see through his calm and composed expression to discern his truest thoughts.

One million six hundred thousand US dollars! This is an astronomical figure that can instantly change the fate of the vast majority of people in the world and allow them to live completely different lives!

It is a tremendous temptation that can drive people crazy and make them lose their way!

And this young man, this international student in his early twenties, calmly, casually, and even resolutely declared that he would hand over the entire huge sum of money to the country!
This almost pure patriotism, this extraordinary spirit of dedication, and this clear-headed and restrained personal integrity deeply moved Counselor Liu, who, despite his immense shock, couldn't help but feel a surge of strong emotions and heartfelt admiration.

This is not just an attitude, but a rare and valuable quality.

"Comrade Guangming, your profound patriotism and selfless dedication are truly admirable. Your tone softened considerably, filled with undisguised emotion. "It is extremely valuable, truly invaluable! I personally express my deepest admiration and appreciation."

But he quickly returned to reality, his tone becoming somewhat serious again:

"However, I must also emphasize again that this matter involves a wide range of aspects and is unique and complex in nature."

Whether or not your request to submit your document can ultimately be accepted, or whether it is appropriate to accept it, is not something that I can decide at this level, nor is it something that the San Francisco Liaison Office can decide.

A final decision can only be made after higher authorities have comprehensively considered and weighed the pros and cons from multiple perspectives, including existing national laws and regulations, relevant policy guidelines, policies concerning intellectuals, China's international image, and the potential demonstrative effect on future students studying abroad.

He stood up, clutching the document bag tightly in his hand as if it were a hot potato, and said in a deep voice:

"I'll accept this document now."

I will immediately initiate the reporting process and submit a report to my superiors as quickly as possible.

Until you receive a formal, clear written or verbal response from the organization, please... take good care of the funds already in your account and ensure their safety.

However, for the time being, I personally advise against any large-scale spending or transfers.

Of course, I must clarify that if this is ultimately determined to be your legitimate income, the organization will naturally not interfere with your right to use it legally.

However, until a final decision is made, maintaining the status quo and handling the situation cautiously is always the safest and least risky approach. I hope you understand the implications.

"Please rest assured, both you and the organization!"

Yang Guangming immediately stood up and solemnly and resolutely promised, "I will strictly abide by any requirements and instructions of the organization."

I will immediately transfer this money to a separate bank account for safekeeping. I guarantee with my Party spirit that I will not misappropriate a single penny before receiving clear and unequivocal instructions from the organization.

Whatever decision the organization ultimately makes, I will unconditionally and resolutely obey and strictly implement it.

His statement was firm, clear, and impeccable.

Looking at his young yet resolute face, Counselor Liu nodded in satisfaction, his expression softening completely, even revealing a relieved smile.

"Good! Good! Comrade Guangming, with your high level of political awareness and discipline, I and the organization are at ease."

Go back home and continue your studies and research. Don't carry any mental burden because of this, and don't talk about it too much with the outside world.

I will notify you immediately through secure channels as soon as I receive any news.

"Then I'll wait for your news." Yang Guangming turned around and left the office with steady steps.

As he stepped out of the slightly old building that served as the liaison office, the bright and warm afternoon sun of San Francisco shone down on him without reservation, bringing a sense of comfort and warmth.

Yang Guangming stood on the side of the street and slowly let out a breath, his tense heartstrings finally relaxing a little.

This crucial step has finally been taken as planned, and it was taken relatively smoothly.

Taking the initiative to report, being frank about the situation, expressing one's attitude, and handing over the final decision-making power to the organization without reservation is the most appropriate, safest, and correct course of action for him in the current complex situation.

He believes that, based on his understanding and judgment of national policy trends, the final outcome will most likely develop as he predicted.

But this process, this attitude, must be flawless; it must demonstrate 100% honesty and obedience.

In the days that followed, Yang Ming tried his best to return to his usual regular and calm rhythm, as if the $1.6 million incident had never happened and was just an illusion.

He continued to attend academic seminars at Professor Hoffman's research group on time as usual, actively participating in discussions; he still devoted a lot of time to the vast sea of ​​books in the library, consulting literature and organizing his thoughts; he steadily advanced the selection of his doctoral dissertation topic and preliminary research work.

Occasionally, he would call Larson, the lawyer, to check on the commercialization progress of the remaining patents, but his mindset had become more peaceful.

He would still occasionally meet with Wang Ruzhou and Li Sihan to exchange academic insights and share interesting stories from his life, but he would never mention the huge sum of money.

The waiting time was slightly longer than he had initially expected.

Two weeks later, on a quiet afternoon, he received another call from the liaison office, informing him that Counselor Liu wanted to see him. His tone was calm, revealing nothing unusual.

Upon arriving at the liaison office, he was immediately ushered into Counselor Liu's office by the staff without any waiting.

Counselor Liu's face showed obvious signs of fatigue, and his eye bags were heavier than before, clearly indicating that he had spent a lot of energy dealing with his affairs recently.

However, his eyes revealed a sense of relief, as if he had finally unloaded a heavy burden.

"Comrade Guangming, please have a seat. This is the sofa." Counselor Liu stood up from behind his desk, walked to the sofa area for guests, pointed to the single sofa next to him, and sat down first. His posture was more casual and friendly than last time.

"Regarding your report on the personal patent transfer income and its handling..."

Without much small talk, Counselor Liu cut straight to the point, his tone serious and formal: “After careful, meticulous, and repeated research and deliberation, the relevant higher authorities have issued clear instructions. I am here to formally convey the organization’s decision to you.”

Yang Guangming immediately straightened his back on the sofa, listened intently, and his expression was focused and solemn.

"The higher-ups believe..."

Counselor Liu carefully considered every word to ensure accuracy: "Under the premise of strictly abiding by local U.S. laws and regulations and excellently completing your academic and research tasks, you made full use of your personal time and energy, relied on your own wisdom to carry out invention and creation activities, and successfully realized the transformation of commercial value."

This is a full affirmation of your personal abilities, diligence, and creativity. It also demonstrates, from one perspective, the excellent comprehensive qualities and enormous potential of the students sent abroad by my country after the reform and opening up.

The organization holds a positive and affirmative attitude towards this.

Counselor Liu first characterized the entire incident, affirming Yang Guangming's actions.

Then, he slowed his speech, making sure each word reached Yang Guangming's ears clearly:

"Regarding the ultimate ownership of the proceeds from this patent transfer."

After careful consideration and with reference to international best practices in related fields, the higher authorities hereby issue the following clear instructions:

In accordance with the spirit of relevant policies at present in my country and international practice, we respect the existing legal system of the host country, namely the United States.

The profits generated from the commercial transfer of a patent that you independently conceived, applied for, and ultimately obtained authorization for are your legal personal property in accordance with laws and regulations, and the ownership and control of the patent belong to you personally.

The organization acknowledges and respects this fact.

Although he had mentally rehearsed and anticipated this most likely outcome countless times, when he heard Counselor Liu officially and clearly announce it on behalf of the organization, the huge stone that had been hanging in Yang Guangming's heart for more than half a month finally fell with a "thud".

An indescribable sense of security and ease instantly flowed through my entire body.

This means that he has successfully secured for himself complete and legal control over this significant "first pot of gold".

But his face didn't show any joy or relief; instead, it showed some unease and persistence, and his tone even carried a hint of urgency.

“Counselor Liu, this…this is unacceptable! This is truly…the country nurtured me, and this money, in the end, stems from the opportunities and platform the country gave me. It is only right that I hand it over. But the organization has made this decision, and I…I cannot rest easy!”

Counselor Liu seemed to have anticipated his reaction, smiling and waving his hand to interrupt him, his tone gentle yet carrying an undeniable decisiveness:

"Comrade Guangming, the organization fully understands your sentiments and your spirit of always thinking about the country and making contributions. We are also very gratified and moved."

However, the decision made by the higher authorities was made after careful consideration and weighing of many factors. It was not a simple refusal, but rather a decision based on deeper considerations.

He leaned forward slightly, adopting a more intimate posture for conversation, and patiently explained:

"First of all, this is in line with the country's current major policies of reform and opening up, liberating the mind, respecting knowledge, and respecting talent."

Clearly protecting citizens' legitimate income, including that of overseas students, is conducive to better mobilizing the enthusiasm, initiative, and creativity of researchers, intellectuals, and the general public.

Your success story, though unique, has certain benchmark and symbolic significance.

If handled well, it can send a positive signal to encourage and protect innovation.

"Secondly."

Counselor Liu paused, his voice unconsciously lowering as if to emphasize its importance, "This is also entirely in line with internationally accepted rules and practices."

If we were to force you to hand over your legally earned income in your host country to the state simply because the amount is large.

Once this matter gets out, regardless of our good intentions, it is highly likely to cause unnecessary misunderstandings and very negative impacts internationally, especially in the intellectual and scientific communities.

This could be misinterpreted as a lack of respect for individual property rights, which would seriously damage our efforts to cultivate a positive image of openness and talent attraction, and would be detrimental to the country's long-term development.

"so."

Consul Liu sat up straight and said in a concluding tone: "From both a public and private perspective, from both a moral and rational standpoint, and from both current policy and long-term strategy, the higher authorities believe that making a decision that respects your personal legitimate property rights is the most appropriate and advantageous course of action."

Therefore, your superiors hope that you can fully understand and resolutely obey this decision.

This money belongs to you legally and compliantly. You can make reasonable and responsible plans and use it according to your actual situation and future development plans.

Of course, the organization also fully believes that, given your consistent awareness and character, you will continue to maintain your style of hard work, frugality, diligence, and eagerness to learn.

This funding will primarily support your studies, deepen your research, and facilitate your future career start-up and development. It will never be used for material pleasures, nor will it cause you to lose your direction or your original aspirations.

Yang Guang knew perfectly well that this was the final, irreversible decision.

He immediately said firmly, "Since the organization has made a clear and unambiguous decision, and it is based on such far-sighted considerations, I, Yang Guangming, will resolutely obey!"
Thank you for the organization's understanding, trust, and care!

Please rest assured that I, Yang Guangming, solemnly guarantee that I will never fail the organization's heavy trust and expectations. I will use these funds reasonably and prudently with a high degree of responsibility to the country and the people, so that they can play their greatest and most positive role.

I will, as always, devote myself fully to my studies and research, strive to complete my studies as soon as possible and return to China, dedicating all my knowledge and strength to the great cause of the motherland's modernization!

His statement was forceful, sincere, and full of determination.

Consul Liu nodded in satisfaction, a genuine and relaxed smile spreading across his face.

"Good! Very good! Comrade Guangming, with your broad perspective and profound understanding, I and the organization are completely at ease. We hope you will remain humble and focused, continue to climb the academic ladder, and achieve even more brilliant accomplishments."

The core of the matter seems to have been settled, with a clear outcome.

But after a moment's thought, Yang Guangming put forward a new idea after careful consideration. He genuinely wanted to make some contribution to the country within his capacity:
"Counselor Liu, I am deeply grateful for the organization's consideration in leaving me this huge sum of money for my personal use, and I also feel a great sense of responsibility."

To express my gratitude and to make myself feel better, could you please allow me to donate a portion of my donation to the country in my own completely voluntary personal capacity?

This is my small but real way of giving back to the country that nurtured me.

However, to his surprise, Counselor Liu, after hearing his proposal, almost without hesitation, decisively shook his head and refused, his tone even more resolute than before:
"Comrade Guangming, your initiative to donate again proves your good awareness and deserves recognition."

However, the higher authorities had actually fully considered and foreseen this possibility in advance when making the final decision.

At the time, it was clearly stated that since this income was recognized as your legitimate personal property from a policy and legal perspective, the state would not, and could not, accept this donation from you in any form.

Seeing that Yang Guangming's lips moved slightly, as if he wanted to explain further or insist, Counselor Liu raised his hand and made a downward gesture, explaining more clearly:
"Comrade Guangming, please understand that this is by no means directed at you personally, nor is it unreasonable."

This is a matter of principle, concerning the purity and consistency of the decision.

If we were to accept your $500,000 donation today, even if it were entirely voluntary, the nature of that decision would become complicated and ambiguous.

It is no longer simply about 'protecting individuals' legitimate property,' but rather about 'the state taking away a portion of an individual's property,' which in fact violates the core policy message of this decision—namely, to clearly and unequivocally protect and respect individuals' legitimate property rights.

This could make the principles we've painstakingly clarified less clear, and could also cause confusion and unnecessary disputes when dealing with other similar issues in the future.

Therefore, a clean and thorough approach is necessary.

Yang Guangming nodded thoughtfully.

He got it completely.

Compared to the portion of foreign exchange he personally donated, the policy signal successfully conveyed by this event, and the rules and precedents established for treating intellectuals and their legitimate personal income, have a more profound and important symbolic and practical significance for a country that is in the early stages of reform and opening up.

What the country values ​​is rules and long-term development, not short-term foreign exchange earnings.

“I understand now. Thank you, Counselor Liu, for your patient guidance. It has enlightened me.” Yang Guangming said sincerely.

He then tentatively asked a question from a different angle, his tone more cautious:

"Well... Counselor Liu, if I don't donate to the national treasury, but instead plan to donate some funds to my alma mater, Tsinghua University, to support the purchase of research equipment or to establish scholarships to help impoverished students, would that be a non-governmental initiative?"

After listening, Counselor Liu pondered for a moment, but ultimately shook his head slowly, giving a negative suggestion:
"Comrade Guangming, I personally suggest that you refrain from any form of public donation at this stage, including donations to your alma mater."

The logic is sound.

At this sensitive stage, the source and nature of your income are quite special and have attracted much attention.

Any form of donation, regardless of the recipient, may trigger unnecessary excessive attention, interpretation, and discussion, and may even be distorted and exploited by those with ulterior motives.

This might actually go against your original intention of giving back to your alma mater, and could also bring unnecessary trouble to the school and the organization.

My advice is to remain calm and patient.

"When you achieve greater success in your studies or have laid a more solid foundation in your career, and when the right opportunities and conditions arise, it will be more effective and reliable to give back to your alma mater and society in an appropriate way and under a suitable name."

Counselor Liu's considerations were clearly more comprehensive and sophisticated, focusing on the overall situation and the long term.

“Okay, I understand. I will follow your advice completely, hold back for now, safeguard my funds properly, and focus on my studies.” Yang Guangming readily agreed once again.

The leaders above have a long-term vision, and Counselor Liu, who is like an elder, is also thinking about him and the overall situation.

Leaving Counselor Liu's office and walking once more through the streets of San Francisco in the evening, Yang Guangming felt an unprecedented sense of ease and peace from within. (End of Chapter)