First Pot Of Gold

The following day, Lin Yun did his routine exercise as usual and returned home to cook his diet meal. After breakfast, he prepared to continue his Plant vs. Zombie project, but unexpected guests arrived.

Lin Yun went out and saw Chu Gaocheng walking over with two people following behind him. One was an old man in his sixties, and the other was a middle-aged man in a suit.

"Hello, Student Lin. We're here to negotiate with you about QuickBooks," Chu Gaocheng said and introduced the two gentlemen behind him. "This is Professor Su from the Eastern Academy of Science and Secretary Du."

Surprised, Lin Yun quickly said, "Greetings, Professor Su, Secretary Du. Please come in."

He invited them into his house and served them tea. His parents came over but didn't dare to say anything.

Chu Gaocheng took a sip of tea and said, "Congratulations on becoming the national champion. You will be the benchmark for all students for many years to come."

"Thank you for the compliment, Mayor Chu," Lin Yun replied politely.

Chu Gaocheng continued, "It's like this. The higher-ups have been testing your QuickBooks and found it excellent in every aspect. It can be used in our units at all levels. We've decided to purchase it."

"That's great news, Mayor Chu," Lin Yun said with a smile. He had been waiting for this moment.

"We need 20,000 licenses," Chu Gaocheng declared.

Lin Yun's eyes widened in surprise. He had initially expected a few thousand at most, but 20,000 licenses were beyond his wildest expectations. This meant an immediate income of 2 million yuan!

"Of course, we'll buy it at the full price of 200 yuan per license," Chu Gaocheng added, noticing Lin Yun's surprise.

Lin Yun was about to say something, but Chu Gaocheng raised his hand, stopping him. "Don't misunderstand, Student Lin. This is not because we're unwilling to accept your kindness. It's because we want to support homegrown innovation. You're a genius, and we believe you'll create more amazing things in the future. This is a small gesture of our support."

"Thank you, Mayor Chu," Lin Yun said sincerely. "I appreciate your support and confidence in me."

Chu Gaocheng smiled warmly. "You're welcome, Student Lin. We believe in you."

Secretary Du then stepped forward, a briefcase in hand. "Here's the contract, Student Lin. Please review it at your convenience. Once you're satisfied, we can proceed with the signing and payment."

Lin Yun took the contract, his hands slightly trembling with excitement. This was a major milestone in his journey, a first step toward his dream.

Professor Su, who had been observing Lin Yun with keen interest, finally spoke. "Student Lin," he began, his voice gentle yet inquisitive, "I'm curious about the encryption method you used to protect QuickBooks data. It's unlike anything I've ever encountered."

Lin Yun's mind raced. He had used advanced encryption algorithms from his previous life, techniques far beyond the current understanding of cryptography in this world. He had to tread carefully, revealing enough to satisfy their curiosity without raising suspicion or compromising his advantage.

"Professor Su," Lin Yun replied respectfully, "I've always been fascinated by cryptography. I've spent countless hours studying various encryption methods, both classical and modern. In developing QuickBooks, I experimented with different techniques, combining and modifying them to create a unique and robust security system."

He continued, explaining the basic principles behind his encryption method, using terminology and concepts that were advanced yet still within the realm of comprehension for a seasoned cryptography expert like Professor Su.

He emphasized the importance of data security, especially for sensitive financial information, and highlighted the measures he had taken to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of QuickBooks data.

Professor Su listened intently, his eyes gleaming with fascination and admiration. He recognized the brilliance behind Lin Yun's explanations, the depth of his understanding, and the ingenuity of his approach.

He realized that this young man was not just a talented programmer but a true innovator, pushing the boundaries of cryptography and setting new standards for data security.

"This is truly remarkable, Student Lin," Professor Su declared, his voice filled with awe. "Your work is groundbreaking. It has the potential to revolutionize not just financial software but the entire field of cryptography."

Lin Yun remained humble. "Thank you, Professor Su," he said. "I'm still learning and exploring. I believe there's always room for improvement and innovation."

"I know you have already chosen WLIT, but I can't help myself. I wish you would join our science academy," Professor Su said sincerely.

Lin Yun thought for a moment and said with a serious expression, "Thank you for your sincere offer, Professor Su. But I have to disappoint you. The science academy isn't suitable for me. Moreover, I can still contribute to the country and society in other ways."

"Please allow me to ask you something, Professor Su. If one day I develop a new technology that can change or lead the world, can I profit from it? The academy probably wouldn't allow me to engage in business. So, what's the point of developing new technology?"

Professor Su, his secretary, and Chu Gaocheng fell silent. They knew they couldn't expect Lin Yun to be a die-hard nationalist. What Lin Yun said was true. The science academy wouldn't allow him to profit from technology he created under its purview. Everything would belong to the country.

"On the other hand, if you want people to benefit from technology, being a businessman can actually allow people greater access to it," Lin Yun added. "I don't deny that there may be a day when I need help from the country and the academy, but that doesn't mean I have to give up everything for free."

Lin Yun's parents were shocked. They looked at Professor Su and the others nervously. Lin Yun's words were blunt and could cause a misunderstanding.

Professor Su smiled. "You're right, Student Lin. We are too narrow-minded and eager to take the lead in this competition. Please forgive us."

Lin Yun was surprised. "There's no need to apologize, Professor Su. I fully understand your feelings and intentions. Whether it's our Eastern Nation or the Federal States, they are all built by patriotic and selfless people like you. I am just a selfish person. I can't be compared to you."

These words came from the bottom of Lin Yun's heart. He believed that most people around the world loved their nations and wanted to see their homes improve. However, only a few could devote themselves selflessly to their country. These people were true heroes, and Lin Yun wasn't one of them.

"You're too modest, Student Lin," Professor Su said with a kind smile. "With your academic level, you could have chosen to go abroad. Any country would welcome you. The fact that you chose to stay here proves that you still care for our Eastern Nation. That's more than enough for us."

He paused and continued, "I would like to invite you to give us a lecture when you have time. To be honest, our country's current level of cryptography is far behind our competitors."

"No problem, Professor Su. How about next week? I should be able to finish my current tasks by then." Lin Yun was willing to help. Moreover, once the cryptography he used became standard, it would benefit him greatly, not to mention the Technology Points he could obtain.

"Then it's settled." Professor Su was happy.