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After a slight dizziness, as if her soul had been pulled out and forcibly put back in, Su Ning suddenly opened her eyes.

What came into view was an extremely familiar scene: his study in a top-tier mansion located by West Lake in Hangzhou.

Soft, intelligent lighting silently illuminated the sleek modern bookshelves, the large intelligent desk, and the Kandinsky abstract painting on the wall that he had purchased at great expense.

The air was filled with his usual fragrance, a blend of cedar and amber, both serene and luxurious.

Everything was exactly the same as when he "left".

On the desk, the cup of top-grade Longjing tea that was not finished before the transmigration was left quietly in its place, the tea soup already cold.

The computer screen was still lit, stuck on the browsing interface of the Ming History forum, as if he had only taken a short nap and had a dream that was far too long.

However, can the word "dream" easily erase the fact that he reigned for sixty years?
His glorious military achievements, sweeping across the land and establishing his rule over the world, the magnificent journey of leading a vast empire from an agrarian civilization to the industrial age, the tender affections of his many wives and concubines in the harem, and the joy of being surrounded by his children and grandchildren in his twilight years...

Everything, every detail, every choice, every joy and sigh, is like a memory carved deep into the soul with a chisel. In this instant of returning to reality, it transforms into a surging tide, impacting his modern cognitive framework.

A strong sense of temporal and spatial dislocation made him subconsciously raise his hand and gently stroke the smooth, cool desk.

The touch from my fingertips felt incredibly real.

He took a deep breath and slowly exhaled, trying to reconnect the mind of an emperor who had experienced sixty years of ups and downs and ruled the world with the body of this young, wealthy businessman in reality.

He walked to the huge floor-to-ceiling window. Outside, West Lake, bathed in the interplay of night and city lights, resembled a giant piece of black jade, serene and enchanting, bathed in shimmering light.

The distant mountains are like dark eyebrows, and the outline of Leifeng Pagoda is sketched out in the light and shadow, creating a beautiful silhouette.

The picturesque scenery of Jiangnan, so different from the majestic palace walls and the mighty Yangtze River of the Ming Dynasty's Yingtian Prefecture, was gradually soothing his intense discomfort and cognitive dissonance caused by the time travel.

"Zhuang Zhou dreamt he was a butterfly, or a butterfly dreamt he was Zhuang Zhou?" he murmured to himself, his eyes quickly shifting from initial bewilderment to a deep and sharp gaze.

Whether those sixty years were a real experience or an extremely realistic trial bestowed by Heaven, his mindset, decisiveness, and methods of wielding power over the universe and looking down upon all living beings have been deeply ingrained in his bones and blood, and can never be separated from him.

Just then, the study door slid open silently.

Afu, the AI ​​humanoid robot he designed and built himself, walked in with steps indistinguishable from those of a human.

Afu's facial expression simulation system is extremely advanced, and at this moment it is displaying just the right amount of respect and a hint of solemnity.

“Master, welcome back. I apologize for disturbing you while you were resting, but there is an urgent matter that I need to report to you immediately.” Afu’s voice was a synthesized baritone, striving for naturalness.

Su Ning didn't turn around, still looking out the window at West Lake with his hands behind his back, and simply uttered a single word: "Speak."

Afu immediately watched Suning's retreating figure and smoothly reported, "It's about 'Hengneng Technology,' a new energy battery factory that focuses on solid-state battery technology, which we at Daning Capital have been tracking for a long time and which has entered the substantive negotiation stage. Just three hours ago, their CEO, Mr. Zhang Mingyu, unilaterally called our negotiating representative, formally rejecting our investment intention and terminating all negotiations."

Su Ning raised an eyebrow, slowly turned around, and looked at Afu's face, which was indistinguishable from a human's: "Reason?"

His tone was completely flat, as if he were listening to something trivial that had nothing to do with him.

“Based on our analysis of the intercepted communications, and the fact that the other party didn’t completely conceal their intentions during the communication,” Afu quickly stated, revealing the intelligence and analysis they had obtained, “a major American private equity firm called ‘Kailos Capital’ offered a valuation 30 percent higher than our final quote. Furthermore, they promised Hengneng Technology a ‘fast track’ to the North American market and a series of policy benefits. After emergency consultations, Hengneng Technology’s board of directors deemed this an offer that they couldn’t refuse. Therefore, they unilaterally breached the contract.”

If it were the old Suning, upon hearing this news, even with the best self-control, he would probably feel a surge of anger and frustration, or at least furrow his brow and ponder a solution.

But at this moment, having experienced sixty years of imperial life in the "Zhu Yuanzhang" scenario, and witnessed countless betrayals of diplomatic relations, fickle ministers, and treacherous battlefields, he only showed an undisguised, somewhat mocking sneer on his face.

"A 30% premium? An empty promise for the North American market?" Su Ning chuckled, his laughter filled with condescending indifference, as if he were commenting on a childish game. "Such short-sightedness, abandoning the foundation for chasing fleeting profits. It seems that this Mr. Zhang Mingyu's vision is limited to this."

He stopped looking at Afu and walked calmly to the wine cabinet on the side, took out a bottle of Macallan Rare Series, and poured himself a small half glass of amber liquid.

He gently swirled the crystal glass, watching the liquid cling to the sides, as if savoring this "nectar" of modern society, or perhaps brewing a storm.

"Ah Fu." He took a sip of wine, the rich flavor melting on his tongue.

His tone then became resolute, carrying the decisiveness and authority he once displayed when issuing imperial edicts to civil and military officials in the Qianqing Palace of Nanjing.

“Yes, Master,” Afu replied immediately, his posture becoming even more respectful.

"Execute the following instructions immediately." Su Ning's voice was not loud, but each word was clear and carried an undeniable force. "First, at 9:00 AM tomorrow, register a brand new automobile brand with Da Ning Capital as the core controlling shareholder. Brand name..."

After a moment's thought, fragments of memories flashed through his mind of being in charge of "Tiangong Kaiwu" and driving the Industrial Revolution. "Let's call it 'Tiangong Automobile'."

The name "Tiangong" (天工) implies ingenuity and skill, which also alludes to his past as the "Emperor of Heavenly Crafts."

"Second, abandon the conservative strategy of acquiring or investing in existing supply chains. Tiangong Auto, if we're going to do it, we'll do it across the entire industry chain!" His gaze sharpened, like a hawk surveying its territory. "From the global layout of key mineral resources such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt mines at the very upstream, to the independent research and development and large-scale production of core materials such as positive and negative electrode materials, separators, and electrolytes, to the design and manufacturing of battery packs, electric drives, and electronic control systems, and finally to vehicle integration, smart cockpits, and autonomous driving technologies... I want to control all the core links myself! Immediately deploy our AI robot team and secret laboratory to start basic technology verification and production line pre-research."

Afu's processor rapidly calculated the feasibility of this massive project, its voice carrying a calculated "caution": "Master, this timeline... is extremely aggressive! A full-industry chain layout requires astronomical continuous investment of funds, as well as unimaginable technological integration and breakthrough capabilities. Starting from scratch and achieving mass production of vehicles in just one year is almost unprecedented in global industrial history. The obstacles we face will be beyond our imagination."

"No precedent?" Su Ning interrupted, a smile of boundless confidence and domineering arrogance playing on his lips. It was the confidence and boldness forged in another world when he had personally propelled a vast empire stuck in the era of ox-plowing and hand-weaving into an age of steam-powered machinery and the dawn of industry. "Then let's create this precedent with 'Tiangong Automotive'! Remember, Afu, the technological foundation we possess is far beyond what this world can currently imagine. Those so-called 'technological barriers' are, in our eyes, nothing more than window paper waiting to be pierced."

He put down his wine glass, walked to the window again, and looked out at the dazzling lights of modern China. His tone was calm, yet it contained a thunderous force capable of shaking the business world: "Hengneng Technology? Kairos Capital?"

He shook his head slightly, as if brushing away dust. "They will soon realize that rejecting Da Ning was the biggest mistake they ever made, a mistake worthy of being etched on the pillar of commercial shame. I want them, and all the onlookers, to see with their own eyes how we can easily surpass their technological advantages and market prospects that they currently cherish, and then... crush them mercilessly."

He whirled around, his gaze sharp as lightning, fixed on Afu's sensors: "Go! Afu! Start executing immediately! Funding and technology have never been issues we need to worry about."

"Yes, Master! Command confirmed. Execution sequence activated!" Afu had no further questions. He bowed, accepted the order, and quickly left. Its system kernel had already elevated the "Tiangong Project" to an absolute core position.

The study door slid shut silently again.

Su Ning stood alone by the window. The night view of West Lake remained peaceful and serene, but in his heart, a raging fire had been ignited, just like when he swore an oath to launch a northern expedition and establish his rule over the world.

The marketplace is like a battlefield, even more brutal and intangible than battles fought with cold weapons.

And he, the "Great Emperor of Heavenly Craftsmanship" who once led a civilization to leap forward, has returned.

A storm sweeping the global new energy vehicle industry is about to quietly begin its first surge from this study by West Lake. ...

Having finalized the grand plans for Daning Capital and "Tiangong Auto," Suning leaned back in his comfortable ergonomic chair, a vague sense of emptiness and boredom spreading through him like the misty vapor rising from West Lake outside the window.

He was once the Emperor of Heavenly Crafts, who was extremely busy and whose word could decide the life and death of millions.

His desk was always piled high with memorials concerning national policies and the people's livelihood, and the roar of the imperial machine accelerating under his will always echoed in his ears: the flames of war in the north, the waves of the sea in the southeast, the reforms of the Ministry of Works, the finances of the Ministry of Revenue...

Everything touched his heart and soul.

The weight and fulfillment of having control over the overall situation and driving history is something that no achievement can replace.

Today, back in modern times, although still in charge of a vast business empire, the highly intelligent Afu and the efficient AI management team have managed to organize most specific affairs in an orderly manner.

This sudden shift from "hands-on" to "governing by doing nothing" made him feel a sense of weightlessness and discomfort, as if the power he had accumulated over sixty years had nowhere to be unleashed.

He instinctively picked up his Huawei phone, his fingertips swiping across the cold screen as he scrolled through his contacts.

The names Chen Xiaojun and Fan Lin naturally come to mind first. These two close friends are currently on a business trip in a film and television city thousands of miles away, busy with a new project for their jointly run "Bizarre and Bizarre" film and television company.

The messages they sent were still from when they said goodnight before they traveled through time. They must be busy with script discussions or filming on set right now, so it's not convenient to disturb them.

A sense of loneliness amidst the hustle and bustle, yet utterly alone, is particularly evident in this tranquil and luxurious top-floor space by West Lake.

Just as he was about to put down his phone and consider whether to go to a private gym to burn off his excess energy or simply immerse himself in studying the mysterious "Nurture Pill" again, his phone suddenly vibrated.

The name flashing on the screen made him pause slightly...

Liu Yifei.

Is it her?

A playful smile unconsciously appeared on Suning's lips.

In my memory, I had just spoken to her on the phone before I traveled through time.

To my utter surprise, this woman, who was known for her indifference and even a certain aloofness, would contact me again so quickly.

Upon answering the phone, Su Ning immediately said, "Yifei?"

"Su...Su Ning, did I disturb you?" Liu Yifei's voice sounded somewhat embarrassed.

"Of course not." Su Ning chuckled, her voice softening. "I was feeling a bit bored, staring blankly at West Lake, when your call came just in time to save me."

"That's good." Liu Yifei's voice seemed to relax a bit because of his words, becoming less polite and more natural. "I don't know why, but I finished work early today, and I can't seem to calm down when I get back to the hotel. The night view of Hangzhou is so beautiful, it seems a bit of a waste to stay alone... I wonder if you... Su Ning, do you have time to come out for a cup of coffee?"

Given that such a woman, who is top-notch in terms of appearance, temperament, and fame, took the initiative to invite him, it would be difficult for any normal man to refuse, let alone Su Ning, who still retains the possessiveness of an emperor and the instinct to appreciate beautiful things.

He agreed without hesitation, his tone crisp and decisive: "Sure! It would be my honor to enjoy the night view with Miss Yifei. You decide the time and place, just send them to me."

"Okay, I'll send you the location on WeChat later." Liu Yifei's voice was light and pleased. "It's a relatively quiet shop, located inside the West Lake scenic area, and the environment is quite nice."

"Well, see you later."

After hanging up the phone, Su Ning looked at the three words "Liu Yifei" on her phone screen and couldn't help but shake her head and chuckle.

This brief and relaxed exchange was like a gentle modern breeze, pulling him back from the "Ming Dynasty dream" filled with steel, electricity, power struggles, and the rise and fall of empires to the real world of dazzling lights, beautiful women, and jade-like charm.

For someone who had once had three palaces and six courtyards and seen the most beautiful women in the world, having coffee with a female celebrity was merely a refined pastime in his leisure time, far from enough to excite him.

However, basic respect and etiquette are essential, especially when the other party takes the initiative to show goodwill.

He got up, went into the bathroom, which was as spacious as a typical apartment living room, and took a quick shower.

The warm water washed over his muscular body, seemingly washing away the non-existent yet lingering sense of temporal dislocation and imperial majesty, making him appear more gentle and closer to this era.

Next, he opened the dressing room and instead of choosing an overly formal suit, he changed into a pair of high-quality dark gray casual trousers and a simple white cotton shirt made of exquisite materials. The top two buttons were casually undone, revealing a hint of his collarbone, making him look relaxed yet stylish.

He didn't use the cologne commonly used in business settings. At his level, there was no need to use external products to show his status; he simply maintained the clean and refreshing scent of his skin.

The young man reflected in the mirror was tall and handsome, with the confidence and composure of a successful businessman in his brows. Only in the depths of his deep eyes would occasionally flash a trace of clarity and tranquility that was inconsistent with his age and had experienced the vicissitudes of life, as if he could see into people's hearts.

I picked up my phone and car keys, then went to the garage and got into my Mercedes.

Driving yourself gives you better control over the pace.

The sleek car drove out of the heavily guarded top-tier residential area and quickly blended into the languid yet bustling traffic of Hangzhou in the late afternoon as the city lights began to twinkle, heading towards the rather secluded high-end coffee shop located within the West Lake scenic area that Liu Yifei had sent her a message about.

The modern cityscape outside the car window flashed by, neon lights flashing, traffic flowing like a river, and Suning's mood gradually became pleasant and expectant.

He was very curious as to why this "fairy sister" had taken the initiative to make the appointment.
Was it just a casual chat among friends, to catch up and experience a relaxed atmosphere different from the entertainment industry?

Or perhaps he'd heard rumors about him and Da Ning Capital, or maybe he had some business considerations involved? Or perhaps...

It contained a meaning that even she herself might not have been clear about, a meaning that went beyond ordinary friendship.

Whatever the answer may be, it undoubtedly adds a touch of brightness and unknown interest to his recently returned, somewhat mundane life outside of grand plans.

He adjusted the rearview mirror, and in the mirror, a faint smile played on his lips as he drove towards the upcoming night rendezvous deep within West Lake.

...(End of chapter)