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

Twenty-two million US dollars!
This number echoed in Yang Guangming's mind, and even with his experience of living two lives, he found it difficult to remain completely calm.

But the excitement brought by this huge fortune lasted only a short time, and he quickly forced himself to calm down.

The joy and sense of accomplishment are real, but they are accompanied by a deeper sense of prudence.

He was well aware that the significance of this huge sum of money in his personal name went far beyond the scope of personal wealth.

His special status, and the astonishing value that the money represented at that point in 1979, determined that this matter could not be simply regarded as a successful ordinary business transaction.

He must report to the organization immediately, proactively, and without reservation.

Last time, the organization clearly stated that the $1.6 million in patent revenue belonged to him personally and refused his request to hand it over. This time, the amount has increased more than tenfold. Will the organization's attitude change?
He is relatively optimistic about the outcome, but he must demonstrate the most proper attitude and the firmest stance.

That evening, after returning to his apartment in Stanford, Yang Guangming didn't waste any time. He sat at his desk, turned on the lamp, spread out some paper, and solemnly began to write a report.

After much deliberation, he finally settled on the title of the report: "A Detailed Report on the Sale of Twenty-Nine Patents and the Proceeds Therefrom."

In his report, he first gave a detailed and objective account of the entire process of contacting, negotiating with, and finally reaching a deal with Intellectual Property Capital Partners.

He highlighted the background of the other party, the difficulty of the negotiations, the value anchoring role of the core patent "two-wheeled suitcase", and the valuation game of other patents, which ultimately led to a total transaction amount of 22 million US dollars.

He emphasized that the transaction was a "package sale of all patents," intending to show that this was a one-time operation to completely solve the problem of patent monetization, which was in line with his previous strategic intention to "quickly recover funds" as reported to the organization.

He then explained in detail the U.S. tax laws, clearly pointing out that the 30% withholding tax was legally mandatory, and the tax environment he currently faced as a nonresident alien. Ultimately, the $15.4 million in income was deposited into his bank account.

Then, the report moved to its most crucial part—his personal attitude and requests.

His writing became increasingly deliberate and meticulous, carefully choosing his words.
"Dear Leader: Although the huge income from this patent sale is based on personal business activities under the US legal framework, I deeply realize that the fundamental basis for my opportunity to study in the US, access cutting-edge knowledge, and stimulate innovative thinking lies in the years of careful cultivation by my motherland and the selfless nurturing of the people."

Without the country's selection and dispatch, and without the organization's trust and support, I would never have achieved my humble success today.

Therefore, I once again solemnly request the organization to: I am personally willing to hand over all after-tax income from this sale of the patents to the state without reservation and without keeping a single penny.

The final disposal of these funds, and their specific use in the country's modernization efforts, will be entirely at the discretion of the organization. I personally have no objections whatsoever and will resolutely obey all decisions made by the organization.

Finally, I earnestly request that the organization study and approve my request.

After writing the last word, he gently blew the ink dry and carefully checked it from beginning to end to ensure that the wording was precise, the attitude was clear, and there was nothing ambiguous or that might cause misunderstanding.

He carefully bound the report and placed it in a thick file bag.

The next morning, Yang Guangming took a car to the San Francisco liaison office.

As he stepped back into that familiar gray building with the national emblem hanging at the entrance, his feelings were different from when he had come to report on the $1.6 million last time.

The initial trepidation has lessened, replaced by a greater sense of composure, but the sincerity towards the organization remains unchanged.

He was greeted by the same young staff member surnamed Zhang. Upon seeing Yang Guangming, he immediately flashed a warm smile: "Comrade Yang, you've arrived! What brings you here today?"

"Comrade Zhang, hello. I have an important personal report that I need to present to Counselor Liu in person." Yang Guangming spoke calmly but with obvious seriousness, waving the document bag in his hand.

The smile on Zhang's face faded slightly, and a hint of understanding and deeper respect flashed in his eyes.

He clearly still remembered the "shock" that Yang Guangming had brought him last time, and seeing the other party again with a thick file bag and a solemn expression requesting an audience with the counselor, he immediately realized that things were probably no small matter.

"Please wait a moment, I'll go and ask Counselor Liu right away." Staff member Zhang didn't dare to delay and quickly walked towards the inner office.

This time, the waiting time was much shorter than last time. Soon, staff member Zhang came out and respectfully led Yang Guangming into Counselor Liu's office.

Counselor Liu appeared to be reviewing documents when he saw Yang Guangming enter. He put down his pen, a gentle smile spreading across his face, and gestured to the sofa opposite him: "Comrade Guangming is here. Please have a seat. Xiao Zhang, make some tea."

"Counselor Liu, I'm sorry to disturb your work." Yang Guangming sat down on the sofa and placed the document bag on the coffee table in front of him.

"No problem. You're one of our 'star students,' always bringing surprises whenever you come," Counselor Liu joked with a smile. His gaze then fell on the file folder, and he asked casually, "Is there some new progress to report this time?"

“Yes, Counselor Liu.” Yang Guangming took a deep breath and decided to get straight to the point. “It’s about the follow-up on those patents I have. As I reported to you before, I was in contact with several institutions, looking for the possibility of selling them as a package. Just a few days ago, this matter was finally resolved.”

He paused, observing Counselor Liu's reaction. Counselor Liu still wore a gentle smile, but his eyes had become focused, and his body unconsciously leaned forward slightly, adopting a listening posture.

"After difficult negotiations with a professional investment firm called 'Intellectual Property Capital Partners'..." Yang Guangming said calmly, "we finally reached an agreement, and they bought out all global ownership of my 29 patents in one go for a total of US$22 million in cash."

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

He leaned forward abruptly, bracing his elbows on the desk, his sharp gaze fixed on Yang Guangming, his voice trembling slightly.

Yang Guangming clearly repeated, "Twenty-two million US dollars, you heard me right. That's the total price before taxes."

The office fell into deathly silence.

Counselor Liu's gaze, almost tangible, slowly moved from Yang Guangming's calm face to the seemingly ordinary document bag, as if trying to penetrate the paper to confirm the authenticity of the words inside.

The barely concealed shock on his face flashed by, quickly suppressed by his strong self-control, but Yang Guangming still keenly caught the moment when his pupils contracted and his facial muscles stiffened.

Twenty-two million US dollars!
In 1979! This was an astronomical figure that would make any cadre at any level dizzy! It far exceeded the scope of "personal income" and touched on a more complex and sensitive level.

Counselor Liu subconsciously took a deep breath, trying to keep his voice steady, but the slightly raised tone still betrayed the turmoil in his heart: "Twenty-two million... US dollars? To buy out all the patents? Comrade Guangming, you... you explain the specifics in detail."

Yang Guangming nodded, picked up the document bag, took out the written report, and handed it to Counselor Liu with both hands: "Counselor Liu, I have written down the entire course of events, details, legal clauses, and my personal attitude in this written report as thoroughly and objectively as possible."

Instead of simply reciting from the script, he used highly concise language to clearly and systematically recount the entire negotiation process, the key moments of the game, the final transaction structure, and the temporary receipt of $15.4 million after tax.

His tone remained consistently calm and composed, showing neither elation at receiving such a large sum of money nor an attempt to downplay the sensitive nature of the matter, giving the impression of objectivity, composure, and trustworthiness.

Consul Liu listened quietly, his face expressionless, only his fingers unconsciously tapping lightly on the smooth tabletop.

His brow furrowed slightly as he pondered, and relaxed slightly as he understood a certain aspect. He needed time to digest this information, which was more than ten times heavier than the last one.

When Yang Ming concluded with "That concludes the basic information about this transaction," a heavy silence filled the office once again.

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

He first set the tone, saying, "You once again took the initiative to report this extremely special situation to the organization immediately after it happened. This high level of organizational discipline and awareness of actively accepting supervision deserves high recognition and praise."

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... the amount involved is so enormous that it is unprecedented among all the students we have sent abroad in the past, and there is no precedent to follow."

The previous decision regarding the $1.6 million was based on the policies and circumstances at the time. This time, the amount has changed by an order of magnitude, and its nature and impact may require a more careful assessment.

He picked up the report, which now seemed particularly heavy, and weighed it in his hand:
"This matter is special in nature and involves a particularly large sum of money. I must immediately report to the main leaders of the liaison office and, in accordance with regulations, 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 this requires a special study by relevant higher authorities, and may even require a decision at a higher level. This will take time.

“I understand, I fully comprehend the organization’s procedures and disciplinary requirements,” Yang Guangming immediately stated firmly.

At the same time, he put forward his core attitude, which he had carefully considered: "Counselor Liu, in the last part of this written report, I also very clearly and formally reiterated my personal wishes and firm attitude."

Although, according to the US legal system and previous transaction practices, this money legally and compliantly belongs to my personal account.

But deep down I firmly believe that the foundation for my opportunities and achievements today is the country's cultivation and investment in me over the years.

Therefore, in my report, I formally and solemnly propose to the organization that I personally wish to hand over all of my after-tax income of US$15.4 million, after deducting any future taxes and fees, unconditionally to the state. I will not accept a single penny for myself. I earnestly request the organization's approval.”

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

He couldn't help but take another look at the young man in front of him.

Fifteen million four hundred thousand US dollars! That's a number that could drive anyone in the world crazy!
And this young man, once again, calmly and resolutely declared that he would hand over the entire huge sum of money to the country!

This almost pure patriotism and selfless dedication moved Counselor Liu deeply, eliciting a surge of profound emotion and heartfelt admiration.

"Comrade Guangming, your profound patriotism and selfless dedication are truly admirable and rare! I personally express my deepest respect and appreciation." Counselor Liu's tone softened considerably, his voice tinged with undisguised emotion.

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

"However, I must also emphasize again that this matter may involve a wider range of aspects and is more special and complex in nature."

Whether or not your request to submit your document is ultimately accepted, or whether it is appropriate to accept it, is not something that I, or even the San Francisco Liaison Office, can decide.

A final decision can only be made after a comprehensive consideration and weighing of 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, gripping the report tightly in his hand, and said in a deep voice, "I will accept this material now."

I will immediately initiate the highest priority reporting procedure and 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.

I personally still advise you not to make any large expenditures or transfers without clear instructions.

Of course, if it is ultimately determined that this is 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, secure bank account for dedicated management. 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 hint of relief and admiration.

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

Go back and continue your studies and research without worry. Don't let this weigh on your mind, and don't discuss it too much with others. I will let you know as soon as I have any news.

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

Stepping out of the liaison office, the San Francisco afternoon sun was still shining brightly.

Yang Guangming stood on the side of the street and slowly let out a sigh of relief.

He must adhere to the principle and bottom line of proactively reporting, being frank about the situation, expressing his willingness to hand over the final decision-making power to the organization without reservation.

He believes that, based on his understanding of the consistency of national policy and his trust in the wisdom of the top leadership, the final outcome will most likely be a continuation of the previous decision. But this process, and this attitude, must be flawless.

Over the next two days, Yang Guangming tried his best to get back to his usual routine, going to Professor Hoffman's research group as usual to participate in academic discussions and advance his doctoral dissertation project.

It was as if that enormous fortune, enough to shake many people's entire lives, had never appeared in his life.

His inner peace was not feigned.

On the one hand, he had confidence in the organization's decision; on the other hand, his plans for the future had long surpassed the level of simply accumulating money. This fund was a tool for him to achieve a larger plan, not the goal itself.

Even if the government requires him to hand over this income, it wouldn't be an unbearable loss for him. He may miss this opportunity, but there will be others in the future.

To his slight surprise, the organization's response came faster than he had expected.

On the afternoon of the third day after his report, he received another call from the liaison office, asking him to come over because Counselor Liu wanted to see him.

Upon arriving at the liaison office, he was immediately ushered into Counselor Liu's office. Counselor Liu wore a look of relief on his face.

"Comrade Guangming, please have a seat." Counselor Liu stood up from behind his desk and walked to the sofa area where guests were to sit down, his posture more casual and approachable than last time.

"Regarding your report on the huge profits obtained from the bundled sale of patents and the handling of related issues..."

Without much small talk, Counselor Liu cut straight to the point, his tone serious and formal: “After urgent, careful, and thorough research and discussion, 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 and listened attentively.

"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 maximized the commercial value."

This is another full affirmation of your outstanding personal abilities, diligence, and creativity, and it also demonstrates once again the excellent comprehensive qualities and enormous potential of the students sent abroad by my country after the reform and opening up.

The organization highly praises and positively affirms this.

Counselor Liu characterized the entire incident and affirmed 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 huge patent transfer."

After thorough research, the higher authorities have given clear instructions to maintain the original decision!

We believe that the profits generated from the commercial transfer of these patents, which you independently conceived, applied for, and ultimately obtained authorization for, are your legal personal property in accordance with laws and regulations, and that you own and control them.

The organization acknowledges and respects this fact, regardless of the amount involved.

Although he had long anticipated this outcome, hearing Counselor Liu formally and clearly announce it on behalf of the organization finally put an end to the weight that had been hanging over Yang Guangming's heart for three days.

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

This means that he successfully secured full legal control over his "first pot of gold".

The consistency of organizational policies and the trust placed in him personally were fully demonstrated.

But his face showed no joy or relief. "Counselor Liu, this...this won't do! This amount of money is far too much! The country nurtured me, and this money ultimately stems from the opportunities and platform the country gave me. It's only right that I hand it over. But the organization's decision...I can't bear it! Even accepting a portion of my donation would be fine..."

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 superiors' decision to maintain the status quo was made after careful consideration; it was not a simple refusal, but rather 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 and continuously protecting citizens' legitimate income, including the substantial legitimate income earned by overseas students through their own wisdom, is conducive to better mobilizing the enthusiasm, initiative, and creativity of researchers, intellectuals, and the general public.

Your success story, despite the unusual amount involved, precisely demonstrates the correctness and stability of our policies, and can serve as a positive signal and a powerful benchmark for encouraging and protecting innovation.

"Secondly."

Counselor Liu paused, his voice unconsciously lowering as if to emphasize its importance, "This is also in full compliance with international rules and practices, and is conducive to maintaining our good image of openness, rule of law and trustworthiness."

If we change previously established principles and force you to hand over your legally earned income in your host country to the state simply because the amount is huge, it would be wrong.

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

This could be misinterpreted as a lack of respect for individual property rights and a lack of policy continuity and stability. This would severely damage our hard-won positive image and reputation for 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, and from the perspective of long-term strategy, the higher authorities believe that making the decision to respect your personal legitimate property rights and maintain policy consistency is the most appropriate and advantageous course of action."

In terms of policy and long-term strategy, to avoid misinterpretation, we cannot accept any form of donation from you for the time being.

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 a clear mind and a simple, hardworking style, and will primarily use this fund to support your studies, deepen your research, and for future endeavors that may benefit the country's development. You will never indulge in material pleasures, lose your direction, or stray from your original aspirations.

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

He immediately said firmly, "Since the organization has made a clear and unambiguous decision, and it is based on such profound considerations, I personally will resolutely obey!"

Thank you for the organization's understanding, trust, and care!

Please rest assured 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 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.

Counselor Liu nodded with satisfaction, a genuine smile on his face: "Good! Very good! Comrade Guangming, with your broad perspective and profound understanding, I and the organization are completely at ease."

At this moment, Counselor Liu seemed to remember something, and took out another document from his briefcase, his tone becoming more formal: "In addition, there is another related decision that I need to convey to you."

Yang Guangming's gaze sharpened as he looked at the document.

"Given that your current situation has changed significantly, especially with the substantial personal assets you now possess and the outstanding ability and judgment you have demonstrated in business operations."

Consul Liu read the contents of the document aloud, his tone calm, "Continuing to use some of the strict control measures applied to ordinary students studying abroad may not be conducive to you fully realizing your potential, nor is it in line with the actual situation. Therefore, after careful consideration, it has been decided that, effective immediately, the following adjustments will be made to your personal management:"

"First, the rigid restrictions on your movement will be removed. You can freely travel to other states or cities within the United States as needed for your studies and research, provided you comply with U.S. laws and ensure your own safety, without having to apply for and report two weeks in advance."

However, for outbound travel, such as to Canada or Mexico, prior notification is still required.

"Second, under the premise of strictly abiding by the basic red lines of discipline such as not working, not participating in political activities, and not changing your identity, you are allowed to explore legal personal investment and business activities."

However, you are required to be extremely cautious, ensure the safety of your funds, and briefly explain the relevant situation in your quarterly performance review, accepting the organization's supervision and guidance.

"Third, the system of regular ideological reports will remain unchanged. We hope you will continue to maintain a high level of political awareness and organizational discipline, and always keep your mission in mind."

As Yang Guangming listened to these "relaxation" measures, a wave of emotion surged within him.

This undoubtedly demonstrates a great deal of trust in his abilities and loyalty, and also opens up more space for his subsequent plans, providing him with great convenience!
"Thank you for the organization's trust and understanding!" Yang Guangming solemnly stated again, "I will strictly abide by the disciplinary requirements for retention, and under the new conditions, I will better complete my studies and research, and will never abuse the convenience and freedom given to me by the organization!"

"Okay, I believe in you." Counselor Liu closed the document with a warm smile. "I hope you continue to achieve outstanding academic success at Stanford, and at the same time, plan your personal development well. The country and the organization look forward to your growth."

Leaving Counselor Liu's office and walking once again on the streets of San Francisco in the evening, Yang Guangming felt an unprecedented sense of ease.

The organization's decision not only confirmed his legal right to dispose of the huge sum of money, but also granted him valuable freedom of action.

With $16 million in hand and greater freedom of action granted by the organization, Yang Guangming's mindset was different upon returning to Stanford.

He still appears daily in Professor Hoffman's research group, participating in discussions and advancing his doctoral dissertation on the fundamental theories of artificial intelligence. Academically, he maintains a high level of focus and dedication, which is the foundation of his identity and his best cover.

However, in his inner strategic mind, academic research has temporarily taken a backseat. How to maximize the return on this enormous sum of money in the shortest time with the lowest risk has become his top priority in all his current plans.

His goal was clear and specific—to use his foresight regarding the dramatic fluctuations in global financial markets in 1979 to devise a sound plan to reap astonishing profits in the gold, silver, and crude oil futures markets, as well as by shorting long-term U.S. Treasury bonds.

In this turbulent year, this is a rare opportunity, and he must seize it. (End of Chapter)