I Only Want to Be a Civil Servant, but You're Trying to Trick Me Into Science?

Returning to his freshman year of college, Lin Feng has only one plan: devote himself entirely to civil-service exam preparation, secure a stable government position, and coast through life on the job. But his quiet ambition is upended when he awakens the "Daily Research Settlement System"—a system that grants him daily experience points for any research-related activity, causing his scientific capabilities to soar at a breathtaking pace. Suddenly, everyone wants to steer him toward academia. A department professor offers to help him pass finals and qualify for elite graduate recruitment—provided he publishes an SCI paper. The dean promises a graduate-school spot and a faster track to promotion in the civil service—if he completes a major research project. Elite university presidents dangle targeted government recruitment and doctoral degrees that lead straight to senior leadership—if he solves the Riemann Hypothesis. A senior academician even offers a lifetime iron rice bowl—if he becomes an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Years later, a peculiar handbook circulates through China's research circles: "The Academician Lin Feng User Manual." Rule one: never interrupt his practice sessions on civil-service exam modules. Rule two: never pitch research in terms of ideals—always frame outcomes by their utility for his government career. Rule three: if you need him to write a paper, have an online exam-prep course ready as an incentive. Rule four: when he asks, "Will this help me get a government job?", answer with absolute sincerity—because that answer determines whether he will act. Rule five: whenever possible, tempt him with posts, ranks, and permanent employment security to keep him engaged in science.