In 2077, the “New Shanghai” is unmistakably post-human: 70% of residents have “neural interface chips” implanted, AI corporation Yuanqi Technology monopolizes tech services and enforces “genetic optimization tiers,” traditional workplaces coexist with virtual offices, “custom AI companions” spark ethical controversy, and those without chips are marginalized.
Shen Yan appears to be a star antiquities appraiser at Hanhai Auction House, but he is actually an unchipped natural human. He possesses a hereditary family gift for “technological perception,” allowing him to sense chip vulnerabilities and fluctuations in consciousness. Unruly but loyal, he carries a bronze paperweight left by his grandfather, which can interfere with signals and protect the mind.
Yuanqi Technology CEO Gu Mingyuan is secretly conducting “living core experiments” to realize his “Unified Human Consciousness Project.” He captures people without chips and extracts their consciousness to activate the “Yuanqi Prime AI.” Shen Yan goes from stumbling upon the secret to forming the “Consciousness Guardians Alliance” and fighting Gu Mingyuan, while uncovering the past grievances between his family and Yuanqi.
