Chapter 25: Targeting Me?

The abilities Lin Yang has displayed so far are indeed mind-boggling, but to suggest he can predict the future—isn't that taking things a bit too far?

"It is not entirely impossible!" Ye Guhong’s tone turned grave. "His formidable computer skills and hacking prowess are beyond doubt. Perhaps he hacked into Sakura’s information network, obtained some intelligence, and that is why he headed there."

This remark left Tang Wensheng and the others stunned. Upon reflection, they realized it was indeed a possibility! However...

"If Sakura’s official information network had been breached, we should have received word. Besides, even if he did, what could he possibly accomplish by going there?" After some contemplation, Tang Wensheng and Han Zhaoyu exchanged glances, voicing their shared doubts.

Ye Guhong looked at them with a cryptic smile and said slowly, "Who said we would necessarily be informed if another nation’s official network were breached? Take the Netherlands, for instance. They were definitely hacked, which is how he obtained the lithography machine blueprints. But if he hadn’t proactively called to inform us, would we have known?"

"That... is true," Tang Wensheng conceded with a wry smile.

"Therefore," Ye continued, "we have every reason to believe he went to Sakura because he obtained some prior information. As for what he intends to do with that information, it is difficult to speculate for now."

Suddenly, Han Zhaoyu, the third-in-command who rarely spoke, interjected bluntly, "Do you think he might be planning to—ahem—‘retrieve’ their newly breakthrough technology?"

A few seconds of silence followed his words. Then, everyone’s expression grew strange. Because... that possibility did indeed exist. It was just so...

"Ahem, let’s stop the wild speculation for now. Their press conference is in the next two days; we’ll see then. For now, everyone get back to work and ensure full cooperation on the Sakura front."

Ye Guhong tapped the desk. "Understood, Elder Ye."

***

Meanwhile, the internet was in an uproar over Sakura’s sudden announcement. The news of the technological breakthrough dominated the headlines across all major media outlets. Many domestic netizens were disgruntled.

"Damn it, why does it feel like Sakura is targeting us this time? They made a breakthrough, fine, but why hold an East Continent conference? They’re practically positioning themselves as the masters of the East Continent, and they specifically emphasized that the new technology is being used in intercontinental missiles. Who are they trying to intimidate?"

"To the guy above, don't just feel it—they are definitely targeting us. It’s clear they want to call the shots across the entire East Continent!"

"Exactly. A breakthrough in nuclear technology that can be weaponized, especially with the claim that these missiles can strike any nation in the East Continent in an instant—it’s a blatant declaration that they are the new kings of the region."

"Indeed. They specifically mention the East Continent rather than the globe to avoid alarming Western nations. Plus, let’s be honest, is there any other country in the East Continent even worth using this on?"

"The provocation is just too obvious!"

"It’s infuriating. Why is it that Sakura always seems to be the one achieving these cutting-edge breakthroughs?"

"There’s no help for it. As much as I hate to admit it, Sakura’s scientific research capabilities are world-class, and they hold many advanced patents."

"Sigh, I really hope our country announces an even more advanced breakthrough soon to slap them in the face!"

"Haha, nice thought, but unlikely. Every major power is pouring resources into nuclear research; everyone knows where the others stand. It’s impossible to suddenly open up such a massive gap overnight."

"You didn't notice that the other superpowers aren't particularly surprised by this breakthrough? They clearly saw it coming."

"This is disgusting. If only there could be some natural disaster or human error on the day of their press conference to make them lose their data! Let them be smug then!"

"...You’re being naive. Data is backed up multiple times, and there are surely hard copies. How could it just get lost?"

"Heh, I don't mean losing it all. Just have some master hackers breach the spokesperson's computer during the conference to humiliate them!"

"Uh... that’s also quite difficult. Sakura will be on high alert during the conference. Hacking in would be as difficult as attacking a national security network!"

"Fine, my bad for being ignorant. I’m going back to work; I can't stand looking at this anymore."

***

Many netizens felt deeply frustrated by the news. Coupled with some users with IP addresses located in Sakura mocking them, the mood was sour. Consequently, the topic slowly lost its heat, leaving only a few interested parties still following the developments.

***

Sakura, Eastern Capital.

After hanging up with Zhao Zijun, Lin Yang had immediately booked a flight to the Eastern Capital and arrived safely. As soon as he stepped off the plane, he saw the trending news. Being in the city, news of Sakura’s breakthrough was everywhere; it was impossible to ignore.

"Huh? Sakura had a breakthrough in nuclear technology? But what is the meaning of this announcement? Are they trying to target us?" Lin Yang felt a surge of irritation after reading the news. This wretched Sakura—they make a breakthrough and immediately use it to posture and attempt to dominate the East Continent. What are they smoking?

"Technological breakthrough, are they? Feeling smug? Trying to target us?" Lin Yang narrowed his eyes and sneered. They want to lead the East Continent? They haven't asked for his permission yet!

"System, there’s a mission to steal Sakura’s research results, right? I’ve decided—I’m choosing this technology theft!"

Lin Yang had his target. He hadn't been sure what to steal before, but now he had a clear goal.