An hour ago…
"How is it going, Mr. Chen?"
Chen Ru squatted near the signal tower, dazed. The sudden question snapped him back to reality and he turned to see Ma Xuemin watching him with a curious expression. Clenching his fists, he forced out a laughter which he hoped didn't sound too awkward. "T–This is a little complicated, so I think I need a little more time…"
"Alright," Ma Xuemin coughed into his fist and offered a wan smile. Despite his unwell condition, he had made the effort to come here so that he could pass on the manuals to Chen Ru. "Take as much time as you need. With your assistance, I'm sure the tower will be fixed in no time at all."
"Mr. Ma, you're flattering me! I will do my best!" Chen Ru laughed again, though this time it sounded so strange even to his own ears.