The days leading up to the Seladang City Arts Festival were a whirlwind of activity. Jiang Han's team worked tirelessly to bring their vision to life, balancing creativity with practicality. While the stakes were high, Jiang's calm leadership and the trust he had built with key allies like Huiying kept the project on track.
Despite his outward composure, Jiang knew the whispers of doubt and envy surrounding him hadn't entirely faded. Lim De Kang was still making veiled comments to colleagues, hoping to undermine Jiang's credibility. But Jiang had learned that in the face of detractors, action spoke louder than words.
As Jiang finalised the rehearsal schedule, the Begging System chimed in with an unexpected notification.
[System Notification: New Mission Triggered.]
Mission: Seek help from an unlikely source to enhance the project's outreach.]
Reward: Communication Skills Upgrade (Advanced Level).]
Failure Penalty: A 15% decrease in team morale for one week.]
"An unlikely source?" Jiang muttered, furrowing his brow. The mission description was cryptic, but the penalty was a risk he couldn't afford. Team morale was one of his strongest assets, and a dip would jeopardise their progress.
Jiang thought carefully about the phrasing of the mission. He needed someone outside his usual circle, someone whose involvement would raise eyebrows. After some deliberation, he decided to approach Xuan Ming, a logistics coordinator known for his blunt personality and penchant for stirring trouble.
Xuan Ming was the last person anyone expected Jiang to seek help from. While his logistical expertise was undeniable, his abrasive nature often put him at odds with the rest of the staff.
Jiang found Xuan Ming in the loading bay, directing a team of workers unloading equipment.
"Xuan Ming," Jiang called out, his tone cordial.
The older man turned, squinting at Jiang. "What brings the golden boy here? Don't tell me you need my help."
"Actually, I do," Jiang said, disarming the sarcasm with a smile. "Your expertise in logistics is exactly what we need to ensure everything runs smoothly at the festival."
Xuan Ming crossed his arms, his scepticism clear. "Why come to me? Don't you have your own team of geniuses?"
"Because I respect your experience," Jiang replied sincerely. "You've managed events on this scale before, and I believe your insights could make a significant difference. Plus, I know your attention to detail will catch things the rest of us might overlook."
For a moment, Xuan Ming seemed taken aback by Jiang's directness. Then a slow grin spread across his face. "Alright, kid. Let's see if you can handle my style."
True to his reputation, Xuan Ming didn't hold back. He questioned every aspect of the plan, pointing out potential logistical pitfalls that Jiang hadn't considered. While his criticism was harsh, it was also valuable.
"This segment," Xuan Ming said, jabbing a finger at the schedule, "requires equipment to be moved between venues in under 20 minutes. Do you have a contingency plan if there's a delay?"
Jiang paused, realising the oversight. "You're right. We'll need a backup crew on standby to manage the transition."
As the collaboration progressed, Jiang found himself learning more than he had anticipated. Xuan Ming's no-nonsense approach contrasted sharply with Huiying's meticulousness and the creative input of the rest of the team. Balancing these dynamics required patience and adaptability—qualities Jiang was steadily honing.
The day of the festival arrived, and tensions were palpable. The event had drawn a significant crowd, including local dignitaries and media representatives. Jiang's segment was slated as the festival's opening feature, setting the tone for the entire programme.
Behind the scenes, Jiang's team worked seamlessly, thanks in no small part to Xuan Ming's logistical expertise. Huiying coordinated the broadcast, ensuring every camera angle captured the festival's vibrancy.
As Jiang took the stage, he felt the weight of the moment. His opening words were scripted, but he spoke with a warmth and authenticity that immediately connected with the audience.
"Art isn't just about creation—it's about connection," Jiang began. "Tonight, we celebrate not just the artists but the stories they bring to life, stories that resonate with each of us."
The audience responded enthusiastically, their applause a testament to Jiang's ability to engage.
In the crowd, Lim De Kang watched with barely concealed frustration. His attempts to undermine Jiang had failed and the success of the segment only solidified Jiang's standing.
As the programme continued, Jiang introduced interviews with local artists, live performances, and behind-the-scenes footage that highlighted the festival's preparation. The seamless transitions and engaging content left a lasting impression on both the audience and the Cultural Committee.
After the broadcast, Mr Lim Choon Seng approached Jiang with a rare smile.
"Excellent work, Jiang. The Cultural Committee is thrilled, and the station's reputation has received a significant boost. You've exceeded expectations once again."
"Thank you, Mr Lim," Jiang said, his gratitude genuine.
As the team gathered to celebrate, Xuan Ming raised a toast. "I didn't think much of you at first, Jiang, but you've proven me wrong. Here's to more successful collaborations."
Jiang laughed. "I'll hold you to that, Xuan Ming."
As Jiang reflected on the night's success, the familiar chime of the Begging System interrupted his thoughts.
[Mission Accomplished: Seek help from an unlikely source.]
Reward Unlocked: Communication Skills Upgrade (Advanced Level).]
Jiang felt a surge of satisfaction. The reward wasn't just a system upgrade—it was a reflection of the real-world lessons he had learned about humility, collaboration, and the value of diverse perspectives.
Just as Jiang allowed himself a moment of respite, Mr Lim approached him again.
"Enjoy tonight's victory, Jiang, but be prepared. The Cultural Committee is considering a follow-up project, and I'd like you to lead it."
Jiang's eyes widened. "Another project? So soon?"
Mr Lim nodded. "This one will be even more challenging. But if anyone can handle it, it's you."
Jiang felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. The road ahead would undoubtedly be filled with new trials, but he was ready to face them head-on.
Jiang Han's success at the Seladang City Arts Festival had left the station abuzz. Colleagues who had once doubted him now looked at him with a mix of admiration and curiosity. Even the persistent murmurs of scepticism from individuals like Lim De Kang seemed to have quietened, at least for the moment.
That evening, as Jiang wrapped up his notes from the festival, Huiying approached him with an approving nod.
"You pulled it off, Jiang. I have to admit, I wasn't sure you could manage the logistics, but you exceeded expectations."
Jiang smiled, his gratitude genuine. "Couldn't have done it without the team, Huiying. Your attention to detail and Xuan Ming's expertise made all the difference."
"Speaking of Xuan Ming," Huiying added with a small laugh, "he was singing your praises earlier. That's a first."
Jiang chuckled. "I'll take that as a win."
The next morning, Jiang was summoned to Mr Lim Choon Seng's office. Expecting feedback on the festival's performance, he was surprised when Mr Lim handed him a folder.
"This is the proposal for the follow-up project," Mr Lim began. "The Cultural Committee was so impressed with your work that they want us to host a monthly cultural showcase. They've specifically requested you to lead the project."
Jiang's eyes widened as he skimmed through the proposal. The scope of the project was ambitious, requiring coordination across multiple teams and consistent engagement with influential cultural figures.
"I'm honoured, Mr Lim," Jiang said finally. "This is a huge opportunity."
"It is," Mr Lim agreed. "But it's also a significant responsibility. Make sure you're prepared, Jiang. The expectations will only grow from here."
As Jiang returned to his desk, the familiar chime of the Begging System echoed in his mind.
[System Notification: New Mission Triggered.]
Mission: Persuade a key sponsor to support the upcoming cultural showcase.]
Reward: Negotiation Tactics Upgrade (Advanced Level).]
Failure Penalty: A 10% reduction in sponsor trust for future projects.]
Jiang sighed, his smile laced with determination. "Looks like the system isn't letting me rest."
He leaned back in his chair, already strategising his approach. Each mission brought its challenges, but Jiang had learned that persistence, creativity, and a touch of humility could turn even the most daunting tasks into opportunities for growth.