Chapter 341 A Comeback!
The mighty vessel, the "Blue Whale", gracefully sailed towards the bustling pier, its imposing figure gliding through the azure waters. The ship had endured a tumultuous journey, traversing over ten thousand nautical miles, braving treacherous storms and unforgiving waves. Yet, against all odds, it had triumphantly returned home.
"We're back, we're back!" exclaimed a crew member, his voice filled with a mixture of relief and exhaustion. "This voyage was arduous and never-ending. I yearn to find solace within the confines of my home, to embrace my beloved wife and children."
Observing the many people eagerly gathered on the pier, another crew member remarked, "Look, there's quite a reception awaiting us. It seems they are here to welcome our triumphant return."
Silence permeated the air as the crew absorbed the scene's grandeur before them. Captain Ren Ziquan, a stalwart figure, peered through his trusty telescope, a grin etching across his face. His heart swelled with pride as he thought, "We have accomplished our mission. Four lithography machines now rest safely within our grasp."
The "Blue Whale" steadily approached the pier, transforming from a distant speck to a colossal presence enthralling all onlookers. With thunderous jubilation, the crowd erupted into boisterous cheers.
"Our Blue Whale has returned!" proclaimed a voice brimming with unwavering pride.
"Indeed, it is our Blue Whale. Look at the four immense containers on its deck," responded another voice, resonating with awe and admiration.
The excitement intensified as the vessel drew closer, culminating in a flawless docking maneuver.
A cry pierced through the commotion, "Behold, several vehicles approach!"
Hu Shijun, Ling Jun, and Huang Guang turned their heads in unison, their gaze fixed on the approaching convoy. The lead vehicle, an off-road beast, was followed closely by a regal Rolls-Royce.
"The boss is here! It's none other than our esteemed leader!" exclaimed Hu Shijun, his voice brimming with excitement.
The vehicles stopped, and the atmosphere crackled with anticipation as Liu Yong, the boss himself, stepped out of the car. A wave of joy swept through the crowd upon seeing him.
Hu Shijun, eager to show his respect, led a group of individuals in greeting their revered leader. "Brother Yong, it's truly an honor to witness your presence here."
Liu Yong's spirits soared. The arrival of the four lithography machines brought him immense joy. Casting a quick glance at the "Blue Whale" moored by the pier, he fervently declared, "I must see it for myself."
Deep within, Liu Yong harboured a flicker of concern. He longed to inspect the contents firsthand, having only seen the machines from a third-party perspective. This was his chance to lay his eyes upon them up close.
The "Blue Whale" had arrived, and Liu Yong had come personally to witness its triumphant return.
Captain Ren Ziquan, accompanied by a group of crew members, disembarked from the ship and approached Liu Yong with military precision. Standing at attention, they saluted their esteemed boss, their military background ingrained in their every gesture.
"Boss, we have successfully transported all four lithography machines. Please provide further instructions," Captain Ren Ziquan proclaimed, his voice echoing with unwavering loyalty.
Liu Yong surveyed Ren Ziquan and his companions with satisfaction, acknowledging their dedication. "You all have done an exceptional job. The next step is to unload and hang the four lithography machines."
"Yes, immediately,Boss," the captain responded crisply, his voice brimming with determination.
Another salute marked the beginning of the task, and Ren Ziquan assumed direct control over the lifting operation.
The "Blue Whale" boasted its own formidable crane, capable of effortlessly hoisting containers weighing tens of tons. With meticulous precision, the crew swiftly initiated the lifting process.
Amidst a symphony of anticipation, the first container was gracefully raised and securely placed onto a waiting container truck stationed nearby on the pier. A resounding applause erupted from the onlookers, their hearts filled with admiration.
One by one, the second, third, and fourth containers were deftly lifted, each eliciting a fresh wave of enthusiastic cheers. The four lithography machines now rested atop the massive container truck, a testament to the crew's unwavering dedication and expertise.
With a wave of his hand, Liu Yong commanded, "Let us proceed to the seaside warehouse."
Some individuals boarded their respective vehicles, eagerly trailing behind Liu Yong's lead. Meanwhile, those who lacked the necessary qualifications remained at the pier temporarily, their gazes filled with longing.
Several small cars took the lead, followed closely by the four imposing trucks, forming an impressive convoy en route to the seaside warehouse. The journey was brief, spanning a mere twenty to thirty minutes before the procession arrived at its destination.
Cars lined the roadside, carefully parked as their occupants stepped out, entering the expansive warehouse.
The large trucks gradually entered the warehouse, and their cargo was dutifully unloaded one by one before departing. The four imposing containers found their designated spots in the centre of the vast open space, signifying the successful completion of their mission.
Perceptive individuals couldn't help but notice a notable change within the seaside warehouse. Clad in security uniforms, a contingent of twenty to thirty individuals stood guard, representing the security department of the esteemed Global Shipping Group.
Henceforth, the once desolate warehouse teemed with activity. A dozen security guards now manned the premises day and night, effectively sealing off the area from unauthorized entry. The warehouse had transformed into a crucial site of immense importance.
As the four large trucks departed, leaving the four containers proudly displayed within the open space, Liu Yong's gaze lingered upon them with contentment. He knew that within those containers lay the coveted lithography machines, awaiting their destined purpose.
Liu Yong, donning a satisfied smile, commanded, "Close the warehouse doors. Only high-level personnel may remain within."
Most individuals respectfully retreated, leaving behind only a select few in leadership positions. The security guards, too, bid their temporary farewell, ensuring the warehouse doors were securely sealed.
"Brother Yong, there are four lithography machines in total," Hu Shijun beamed, his hands unconsciously rubbing together in excitement.
Liu Yong, his eyes sparkling, inquired, "Would you like to unveil the contents?"
Hu Shijun nodded enthusiastically. "Certainly! We are all eager to witness their magnificence."
The sentiment resonated throughout the assembled group, each member nodding in agreement. The collective curiosity to witness the grandeur of the lithography machines was palpable.
Waving his hand gracefully, Liu Yong ordered, "Chen Hu, open the containers."
"Understood," Chen Hu acknowledged, retrieving tools from the off-road vehicle. Alongside bodyguard Xiao Zhao, he expertly began the process of unlocking the first container.
Applause erupted as the lid of the first container swung open, revealing a pristine, untouched 5nm lithography machine.
Liu Yong approached the machine, his eyes scrutinizing every detail. His most pressing concern, water and moisture damage, dissipated as he realized the interior remained remarkably dry. The lithography machine had undergone meticulous waterproofing and moisture-proofing measures during packaging, ensuring its safety during transportation.
All four containers were opened one by one, revealing the four magnificent lithography machines in their full glory. A sense of accomplishment filled the air, accompanied by an overwhelming feeling of satisfaction.
Hu Shijun couldn't contain his joy, his smile resembling a blossoming lotus. "This is truly amazing!"
Liu Yong surveyed the scene with great interest, his face radiant with delight. He raised his hand and declared, "That will do. Close the containers."
Hu Shijun hastily interjected, "Just ten more minutes, Brother Yong. Let us revel in their presence for a little longer."
Liu Yong chuckled and agreed, "Ten more minutes it is. After that, we shall secure the containers."
Hu Shijun and the others savoured every moment, exploring the details of the lithography machines with awe and excitement. Eventually, the ten minutes elapsed, and the containers were sealed again.
To ensure utmost security, Liu Yong ordered the installation of surveillance systems and assigned a dozen security guards to protect the warehouse day and night. A strict confidentiality protocol was also enforced, limiting the knowledge of the lithography machines' placement to a small group of trusted individuals.
Meanwhile, at the Nibik Semiconductor Corporation in M Country...
The renowned chip manufacturing company suffered a severe blow two months ago when their order of four lithography machines plunged into the depths of the sea, remaining undiscovered to this day...