Chapter 162

Following Xiao Er, there was no one in sight. Tang Qing always felt a knot in his heart. He sensed the need for some robots to boost his influence. Even though they weren't entirely human and lacked reproductive capabilities, they were indistinguishable from the outside. Even upon dissection, he doubted any discernible differences would surface. He firmly believed that the technology of the system was beyond deciphering in this era.

"Xiao Er, let's start by synthesizing a junior commander, middle-aged," Tang Qing pondered, wincing at the thought of the additional 50 million yuan bringing his total to 310 million for the day. He reasoned it was worth the investment. He opted not to specify gender or race since the system defaulted to male, Asian, and a mandatory age range.

"Synthesizing a junior commander will deduct 50 million yuan. Please confirm with the commander," Xiao Er informed.

"Confirm synthesis," Tang Qing affirmed.

"The order is confirmed. The synthesis of the junior commander robot will begin, with completion expected in ten minutes," Xiao Er relayed.

Having issued the order, Tang Qing settled into a chair on a cylindrical platform. As he reclined, he recalled that the chair likely harbored special features.

"Xiao Er, what functions does this chair serve?" Tang Qing inquired with curiosity.

"It primarily facilitates information queries, commands, and dispatches. It connects to Xiao Er, enabling access to various functions. Apart from the commander, others can only access Xiao Er's functions through designated interfaces," Xiao Er explained.

Tang Qing felt a sense of privilege akin to a high-ranking official. He could conduct business calls privately, unlike others who required appointments.

"Why doesn't anything happen when I sit on it? Are you controlling it?" Tang Qing probed further.

"Yes, Commander. Would you like me to activate the T19 command platform for you?" Xiao Er offered.

"Activate it. Let's see," Tang Qing eagerly responded.

This time, there was no confirmation prompt. Instantly, Tang Qing noticed his surroundings brightening, with various lights on the chair flickering like indicators. Nine screens materialized in front of him, immaterial yet stable. Tang Qing explored the options, delving into various functions over the next ten minutes.

However, apart from personnel monitoring and functional area monitoring, which provided records of the junior commander's synthesis progress, the rest yielded nothing of interest.

Disappointed, Tang Qing exited the command platform as the ten-minute mark passed.

"Xiao Er, when will the commander arrive?" Tang Qing inquired.

"In one minute and ten seconds," Xiao Er replied promptly.

Shortly after, a sightseeing car approached the command room, transporting a middle-aged man clad in blue tights. Despite his unremarkable appearance, he exuded an air of authority. Tang Qing couldn't help but liken him to a seasoned general, possibly influenced by implanted memories.

As the man approached, he saluted Tang Qing and declared, "Hello, Commander. I am Commander 01 at your service."

"Hello, from now on, you shall be called Tang Yi," Tang Qing responded, assigning him a name shorter than the main control system's.

"Understood, Commander. Tang Yi reporting for duty," the man acknowledged.

"What are your recommendations for our next steps?" Tang Qing inquired.

"Commander, what are your orders?" Tang Yi asked, puzzled by the vague question.

Tang Qing realized his oversight and clarified, "I mean, what tasks can you perform and what resources do you require?"

Tang Yi outlined his role, emphasizing task formulation, combat coordination, intelligence gathering, and logistics support.

Tang Qing couldn't help but feel unimpressed by Tang Yi's proficiency.

"Can you communicate externally from here?" Tang Qing asked.

"Yes, Commander. Quantum communication chips enable real-time communication with individuals outside the command center," Tang Yi explained.

Tang Qing was taken aback, grappling with the implications of this capability. Despite his preparations, the prospect of omnipresent surveillance unsettled him.

"System, do I possess such capabilities?" Tang Qing queried, seeking clarity.

"The host's mind contains no artificial components. The system exists beyond your comprehension," the system responded cryptically.

Deciding not to dwell on it, Tang Qing shifted his focus. He realized the need for appropriate attire for Tang Yi and others.

"Xiao Er, can clothing be produced here?" Tang Qing inquired.

"At present, the scientific research production area only offers personnel synthesis," Xiao Er replied.

"Understood. Tang Yi, I intend to provide covert protection for certain individuals. What do you suggest?" Tang Qing sought advice on securing his relatives.

"Considering their importance, I recommend assigning one combatant for secret protection per person and one basic intelligence analyst for every three individuals," Tang Yi proposed.

Calculating the costs, Tang Qing realized it would amount to six million yuan.

After deliberation, he decided to assign a combatant and an analyst each to fifteen individuals, including his and Lin Jiaxue's grandparents. This expenditure totaled forty million yuan.

"Xiao Er, provide seven male and eight female second-level fighters under 30, and five analysts," Tang Qing instructed.

"Understood, Commander. All personnel will be available in forty minutes," Xiao Er confirmed.

Reflecting on his dwindling finances, Tang Qing resolved to economize. He allocated funds for logistical support and nutrition, mindful of the needs of his team.

An hour later, he observed thirty robots standing before him, exuding an aura of power and capability. With a sense of accomplishment, Tang Qing acknowledged the importance of loyal subordinates.

As he contemplated his financial constraints, Tang Qing resolved to amass wealth, determined to succeed against all odds.