The topic returned to the impossible, leaving Zhao Qiang incredibly frustrated and embarrassed. Fortunately, Professor Gu called out to Zhao Qiang from the study doorway, "Zhao Qiang, come here for a moment," finally rescuing him from the predicament.
Zhao Qiang was both grateful to Professor Gu for pulling him out of the vortex of misunderstanding and happy to have the opportunity to be alone with Professor Gu. Otherwise, he might not have had the chance to bring up the matter of substance 'A' with Professor Gu today.
Volume 1 [072] The Gift
Professor Gu's study was messy, with books everywhere. There was an old rattan chair in front of his desk, and next to it was a regular school stool. Zhao Qiang was sitting on this stool. Professor Gu took off his glasses and said, "Zhao Qiang, I've looked at your previous records. Your grades were indeed not satisfactory."
Zhao Qiang still spoke truthfully: "Yes, Professor Gu, I was afraid that I would not have such good luck again, so I refused to study under you before. Please don't have any objections. Actually, I am still feeling uneasy right now."
Professor Gu smiled and said, "What, do you need me to find you a test to prove your own abilities?"
Zhao Qiang smiled. There was no need for that. As long as Professor Gu didn't hang around in front of him, he had Xiao Wei's help and wasn't afraid of any tests. In other words, he had the 'ability'. He would also need to 'guide' Professor Gu on the matter of 'Substance A' later, so he needed to muster some courage now.
Professor Gu was pleased with the confidence that suddenly appeared on Zhao Qiang's face. He continued, "I asked you to come in to ask if you have any thoughts about pursuing a master's degree, and if you have any difficulties at home that need to be resolved. I know that you have spent more time working than studying at school in the past three years, which must be due to your family's limited financial situation. If you have any difficulties, please tell me, and I will do my best to help you."
There were indeed difficulties before, but things will be much easier from now on. Making money will be a piece of cake. So Zhao Qiang said, "Thank you, Professor Gu. The family's difficulties have been resolved."
Professor Gu smiled and said, "Yes, you've started your own company now. I'll have Xiaoya give me a business card later."
Oh dear, Professor Gu overheard everything that was being said in his study. I wonder if this will affect his image in the eyes of the person he admires.
"Now that you're financially secure, what are your thoughts on pursuing graduate studies? Do you have a particular direction in mind?"
Zhao Qiang was secretly delighted. This was Professor Gu guiding him to talk about substance 'A'. "Uh... Professor, I do have some ideas. Take a look at this. I dug it up in the fields of my hometown when I was in high school. And these certificates, of course, are private. I paid someone to test it myself. They have no authority and are just for reference."
Professor Gu only wanted to ask Zhao Qiang if he had any interest in a particular area. He liked to guide students based on their interests, but he didn't expect that his initial question would lead to such an unexpected reward.
A dark, heavy iron plate—or rather, an unidentified substance, because iron plates shouldn't have such density. It was incredibly heavy, seemingly one or two times denser than gold, and even a small piece was too much for Professor Gu to handle.
Professor Gu weighed and observed the substance while taking out an A4 sheet of printed paper containing partial analysis results. "It is mostly composed of iron alloys, but its hardness far exceeds that of iron alloys themselves, so it is different from normal iron alloys. The hardness test data is no less than that of boron carbide, and in some cases it even far exceeds the performance of boron carbide."
Zhao Qiang had also brushed up on the relevant knowledge. Boron carbide, simply put, is also known as tetraboron monocarbide, with the molecular formula B4C. It is commonly known as artificial diamond and is used in grinding, polishing, and drilling of hard materials. In addition, it has an even more important use in the arms industry, where it can be used to manufacture gun nozzles and can also be used as a ceramic coating for warships and helicopters.
Zhao Qiang flattered Professor Gu, saying, "Professor, you should understand at a glance that I'm completely confused. I've been thinking about this for the past few years. If I sell it as iron, I'm afraid I'll lose money. If I sell it as copper, no one will buy it. If I sell it as gold, I'm afraid I'll be criticized. If you can help me solve this long-standing problem, I can finally sleep soundly tonight."
Professor Gu was amused by Zhao Qiang's series of metaphors: "You little rascal, you seem quite honest, but you can spout witty remarks one after another. This shouldn't be steel. Even if it is the main component, there must be another substance in it, because steel doesn't have such a high density. However, your analysis report is too general. I need to re-sign it."
Zhao Qiang nodded in agreement: "Yes, Professor, you are a well-known expert in the field of physics. If you were to examine it, you would definitely be able to see through it. I guess there might be a mysterious substance in it, which might be what makes the iron alloy so hard and heavy."
Professor Gu nodded: "Your line of reasoning is correct, but no one can say for sure until my analysis results are available. This item is very valuable. I'll just take a sample; you can keep the rest yourself."
Zhao Qiang, of course, didn't care about these scraps: "Since you say it's precious, Professor, it's safer and more useful for you to have it than for me to have it. You know I'm homeless and can't carry such a heavy thing around all the time, so you, Professor, are more suitable to be its owner than I am. There's an old saying about giving a precious sword to a hero. You, Professor, are a leading figure in the field of physics, and only you can study it thoroughly, so I want to give it to you."
Professor Gu laughed heartily: "You look honest, but you're actually quite cunning. Alright, since you put it that way, I won't let you down. I'll accept it and let you know as soon as I have the results." As he spoke, Professor Gu played with the black scrap of material, and judging from his expression, it seemed to be the best birthday gift he could receive this year.
Zhao Qiang knew that he could only give Professor Gu some pointers today. If he said anything more, it would easily arouse Professor Gu's suspicion. He would wait until Professor Gu personally identified the results before further guiding him toward the manufacture of substance 'A'.
"Professor, this is a birthday gift from Xu Xiaoya and me. We hope you will find it useful." Zhao Qiang took out a copper paperweight and a root carving pen holder.
Professor Gu accepted it with a smile, without refusing. The copper paperweight on the table complemented the old rattan chair perfectly, and the rustic pen holder added to the charm, creating an atmosphere that was truly in line with the study's ambiance.
Professor Gu examined the gifts for a few moments and felt a sense of great satisfaction. He nodded repeatedly and said, "These two items are excellent, much better than the jade and gold your four senior brothers sent. Zhao Qiang, from now on, just call me teacher. 'Professor' sounds a bit too formal." This flattery was spot on, immediately bringing Zhao Qiang and Professor Gu closer. Of course, the scrap material also played a significant role in this.
Zhao Qiang would be polite when he needed to be, but he would not be polite when he didn't need to be. "Yes, teacher."
Professor Gu examined the strange black substance again. He had a strange feeling that there must be some kind of substance unknown to mankind in it. If he could discover and understand it, it would be worthwhile to have studied physics for so many years. In an instant, Professor Gu's goodwill towards Zhao Qiang increased several levels. He had brought new hope to his research career.
Since this newly admitted student has made him feel "rejuvenated", then he should give him more guidance. "Zhao Qiang, your foundation is still very weak. Your original major did not have high requirements for physics, so you need to constantly acquire knowledge to enrich yourself."
Zhao Qiang replied, "Teacher, I've been reviewing my university courses recently. I plan to spend one to two months reviewing them all, and then focus on learning a specific area. I hope you can give me some guidance."
Professor Gu nodded: "I can recommend a few books for you to read first. I don't expect you to do in-depth research, just get a general understanding so that when you transfer to the university of science and technology next year, you won't be too unfamiliar with it and you'll be able to keep up with my research then."
As Professor Gu spoke, he picked out several books from the bookshelf, including those on the fundamentals of physics and explanations and applications of new materials. This aligned with Zhao Qiang's current goals; he couldn't rely solely on Xiao Wei, so it was urgent for him to learn a great deal about 'A' substance.
Bang, bang, bang, someone knocked on the study door with their fingers, and a little girl poked her head in: "Dad, dinner's ready."
It turned out to be Professor Gu's daughter. Zhao Qiang took a closer look out of curiosity. The girl looked to be about eleven or twelve years old, but she was quite precocious. Sigh, people who do scientific research usually don't have time to date, so their children are usually quite young.
Professor Gu introduced her to Zhao Qiang: "This is my daughter, Gu Xuemei. Her mother gave birth to her the winter when it snowed heavily and the plum blossoms in the yard bloomed, so she was named Xuemei (Snow Plum). Hehe, her personality is similar to her name, she's too introverted."
The little girl lowered her head shyly: "Dad..."
Professor Gu stood up and patted Zhao Qiang on the shoulder: "Come on, Zhao Qiang, have a couple of drinks with your teacher. Take the books with you, don't forget them when you leave the study."
Gu Xuemei stared curiously at the book in Zhao Qiang's hand, her eyes filled with disbelief. This puzzled Zhao Qiang. What was wrong? Did the little girl dislike her father borrowing books from others? He would have to be careful and cherish the book, making sure the teacher didn't fold the corners or miss any pages.
Volume 1 [073] Procurement and Optimization
A table full of dishes was already laid out in the restaurant. Xu Xiaoya followed behind Gong Xiaolan, carrying dishes and cups, busy as a bee. Zhao Qiang stepped forward first and respectfully bowed to his teacher's wife. Gong Xiaolan nodded kindly, "Alright, take a seat. There are no outsiders today, so don't be too polite. From now on, this is your home."
Zhao Qiang and Xu Xiaoya should have been seated at the very back of the restaurant, since they were the last to join the sect. Professor Gu went to get some wine from the wine cabinet. When Shan Hongfei saw Zhao Qiang carrying three books, his eyes were filled with the same expression Gu Xuemei had just given him. Finally, he couldn't help but lean over and ask Zhao Qiang, "Junior brother, where did you get these books?"
Zhao Qiang thought to himself, "Did I steal these from the study?" "Senior brother, of course Professor Gu lent them to me. He told me to read these books first, as they will be helpful for my graduate studies next year."
Dan Hongfei paused for two seconds, then gave Zhao Qiang a thumbs up, making Zhao Qiang even more frustrated. Zhou Baoqiang, sitting to the side, said, "Junior brother, you are so highly regarded by the teacher, your future is truly limitless, you must cherish it."
Zhao Qiang thought to himself, "Holy crap, Professor Gu lending me a few books and you think he's limitless? You guys are exaggerating a bit."
Xu Xiaoya tugged at Zhao Qiang from behind and whispered, "You don't know, Professor Gu's collection of books is never lent out. Everyone at the university knows that. But he made an exception for you today. You know how much the professor values you."
Zhao Qiang was stunned, and then a "Holy crap!" popped into his head. Giving the right gift really worked! Professor Gu had spent most of his life researching physics, and it was said that he had been paying special attention to the research and application of new materials in the past two years. His own scrap was like an umbrella on a rainy day, a fire in winter. Since Professor Gu valued it so much, it meant that he was not far from creating 'A' matter. Hahaha, if the X-ray glasses were upgraded to see through any matter, if the abnormal screwdriver was upgraded to be able to see through any object, if the three-proof shirt protected his head and thighs, and if the running shoes became rockets, it would be hard not to become Superman this time!
Xu Xiaoya suddenly pinched Zhao Qiang's waist: "Zhao Qiang, don't get too cocky!" In Xu Xiaoya's eyes, Zhao Qiang's lewd smile was a bit too much, and as the class monitor, she felt it was necessary to remind him.
Zhao Qiang suddenly realized he had almost embarrassed himself! He immediately adopted a submissive and receptive demeanor. Professor Gu brought over two bottles of Moutai, placed them on the table, and beckoned to Zhao Qiang: "Come, sit here with me."
Zhao Qiang was very reluctant because his daughter, Gu Xuemei, was sitting next to Professor Gu. If he moved over to sit there, Gu Xuemei would have to give up her seat. Also, his seat was closer to Professor Gu than that of his senior brother, Shan Hongfei. Would that cause them any objections?
Regardless of Zhao Qiang's willingness, Gu Xuemei had already taken the initiative to sit down next to Xu Xiaoya. Shan Hongfei gave Zhao Qiang an encouraging look, and Zhao Qiang dared to sit down only after seeing that he really had no objections.
There's no need to go into the details of the meal. Anyway, Zhao Qiang and Xu Xiaoya both drank a glass of Moutai with Professor Gu. Zhao Qiang praised the taste, saying that this was real liquor. Compared to the baijiu he had drunk before, it was a disgrace to the sacred name of "liquor." However, he guessed that those two bottles of Moutai wouldn't be cheap, and Zhao Qiang would have to have the money to buy them even if he wanted to drink them in the future.
After the meal, everyone said their goodbyes. Since Professor Gu usually goes to bed very early, his fellow students knew this habit and naturally didn't linger. They had already exchanged phone numbers so they could keep in touch later.
"You've been drinking and driving, is that alright?" Zhao Qiang asked Xu Xiaoya with some concern.
Xu Xiaoya's face was flushed. She patted her chest and said, "It's okay. I can still drive even if I have a couple more drinks. You can't beat me at drinking. Besides, the traffic police in this area don't check my license plate number."
Zhao Qiang lazily sat in the passenger seat. "You're really something. I'm going to take a nap."
While driving, Xu Xiaoya said, "Wait, I have something to tell you. What kind of magic did you use to make Professor Gu value you so much?"
No one knew that Zhao Qiang had given Professor Gu scraps of material, and Zhao Qiang himself certainly wouldn't say it, "Maybe it's because I'm handsome."
Xu Xiaoya made a vomiting gesture. "Please, don't make me waste food, okay? Ugh, don't sleep! How can you be so rude? I'm talking to you."
Zhao Qiang felt sleepy after drinking. He mumbled, "Professor Gu values me, which means I deserve his respect, right? How would I know why you're asking me? Why don't you go ask him?"
Xu Xiaoya said, "I wasn't talking about that. The tire factory needs to purchase a batch of computers recently. I almost forgot about it these past two days. Can you prepare a tender document and we'll send it over tomorrow? If we delay any longer, I'm afraid they won't be able to wait."
"Business opportunity!" Zhao Qiang jumped up, but quickly shrunk back into the car seat. "I know a bit about the tire factory's procurement. Don't bother. Xinhua Computer has already won the bid. If we go to participate in the bidding, we'll just be playing second fiddle."
"Xinhua Computers? What makes them think they can do that? I told you to get ready, so get ready now. Don't you want to make money?"
Zhao Qiang said, "I'm really not lying to you. A few days ago, Wang Yidong and I went to the tire factory to discuss the optimization of the system. I saw with my own eyes the head of the tire factory's computer department accept a bribe from Qian Gang, the owner of Xinhua Computer. The envelope was quite thick with money. What good would it do us to get involved at this time?"
Xu Xiaoya's expression was strange: "Oh, I see. But just listen to me and go ahead. I guarantee you'll get the purchase order."
Zhao Qiang was skeptical, so he casually replied, "To be honest, the tire factory does have a batch of computers that need to be phased out, but more than two-thirds of the computers don't need to be replaced at all. Just optimizing the system will be enough to meet the needs. The computer department made the procurement plan just to take advantage of the situation and make some money. I don't plan to give them any gifts."
Xu Xiaoya said, "You're talking nonsense. I know that some computers are indeed infuriatingly slow and can't function properly without updates."
Zhao Qiang scoffed at Xu Xiaoya's words: "President Wang has done a detailed investigation. Indeed, some computers have Celeron 2 CPUs, such as the 800, 933, and even the 677. Better ones are Tualatin and Pentium III. However, most of them have 128MB of RAM, which is no longer sufficient to install XP. These computers can be completely replaced. But a large number of computers have 256MB of DDR1 RAM and Pentium 4 or Celeron D CPUs with a clock speed of 2GHz or higher. Compared with the current Core dual-core and quad-core processors, they are indeed far behind. But you also have to consider what they are used for in the workshop. It's just for bookkeeping and installing control software. The reason why the lower levels keep calling for a replacement computer is simply because the system has not been maintained for many years and runs slowly, making it impossible for them to play some games. But in fact, these computers with 256MB or more of RAM can fully meet their basic gaming needs after optimization."
Xu Xiaoya solemnly corrected, "Those computers aren't for playing games."
Zhao Qiang said, "Stop pretending to be serious. Even if the monitoring is strict, can you stare at the screen every day? Even if some computers don't show a significant speed improvement after optimization, you can speed them up by adding a 256MB memory stick. There's absolutely no need to buy new ones."
Xu Xiaoya thought of a question: "If we don't buy computers, how will we make money?"
Zhao Qiang cursed, "Are you an idiot? Optimize the system! The enterprise version costs 280 yuan per unit. If we contact the business ourselves, that 280 yuan will all go into our pockets. Ten units would be 2800 yuan, and a hundred units would be 28000 yuan. That's probably about it. But the procurement funds saved for the tire factory are probably several times that amount."
Xu Xiaoya laughed and said, "You really are thinking of the tire factory. The general manager of the tire factory should appreciate your kindness."
Zhao Qiang snorted and shrank back to close his eyes, but Xu Xiaoya said, "Wait, keep talking. You'd better come up with a plan tonight."
Zhao Qiang said, "Forget it. I've seen the darkness in these big factories. I'm not going to go looking for trouble. Boss Wang is much more capable than me, but he still ran into a wall. I was just saying that casually."
Seeing that Zhao Qiang was indeed not interested, Xu Xiaoya could only say, "If you won't write it, I'll write it myself."
(Thanks to Ito Yun for the 588 Qidian Coins donation and to Kouki Koji for the 100 Qidian Coins donation!)
Volume 1 [074] Keep it as a stepping stone
The car stopped, and Zhao Qiang opened his eyes: "Are we home?"
Xu Xiaoya opened the car door and got out. "Zhao Qiang, sit with me for a while. I want to drink some more, and I really want to talk to someone."
Zhao Qiang peeked outside and saw that they were just passing by the night market. There weren't many people there now, since it wasn't so hot after October. Zhao Qiang said, "Squad leader, did something happen to you?"
As Xu Xiaoya spoke, she walked into a nearby barbecue stall: "Yeah, are you coming with me?"
Zhao Qiang naturally agreed to accompany her, otherwise he would have to walk back to Shunfeng Technology Company by himself. It was so much more comfortable having a car. Xu Xiaoya ordered some grilled meat skewers, while Zhao Qiang ordered two skewers of grilled balut. Xu Xiaoya said, "Why grill that stuff? It looks so dirty."
Zhao Qiang chuckled: "You haven't tried it, so you don't know what it tastes like."
Xu Xiaoya saw that some of the baluts had already taken on the shape of chickens, and she said, "I dare not, it's too barbaric."
Zhao Qiang said, "Living is about constantly trying different things. If you're afraid to eat anything, what's the point of living?"
Xu Xiaoya remained silent. At this moment, the owner brought over several skewers of grilled meat and beer. Xu Xiaoya poured Zhao Qiang a glass: "Come on, have another drink with me. I don't know why, but I really want to drink tonight."
Zhao Qiang said, "Mixing baijiu and beer makes you get drunk very easily."
Xu Xiaoya said, "I'm not afraid. I've never experienced being drunk before. Didn't you say that living is about constantly trying new things? Let's take this as my start."
Zhao Qiang said, "You really know how to apply what you've learned. Alright, let's go for a bit."
After downing a large glass of beer, Xu Xiaoya's face turned even redder. She hesitated for a moment before saying, "Zhao Qiang, there's something I've been keeping from you."
Zhao Qiang exclaimed, "What's wrong? Did you take kickbacks on your purchases?"
Xu Xiaoya said, "Am I that despicable? It's about slimming tea."
Zhao Qiang asked worriedly, "Didn't the rest work? We agreed that there would be no refunds."