Above the Code, Beneath the Loess

The story begins in rural northwestern China in 1993. Chen Zhiyuan, the protagonist, is born into a poor farming family that nonetheless places great importance on education. At the time, computers are rare across China, especially in rural areas. Spanning 20 years, the story follows the development of China's computer and internet industries from their beginnings to their rise to prominence. The protagonist eventually achieves remarkable success in artificial intelligence, while continually reflecting on how to balance technology with humanity.

Through the protagonist's journey, the story portrays the sweeping progress of China's technological development while also exploring in depth the relationship between technology, society, human nature, and ethics. The divide between city and countryside, the clash between tradition and modernity, and the conflict between technological ideals and practical interests all run through the story.