The success of the cultural showcase solidified Jiang Han's growing reputation. The station was buzzing with praise for the event's seamless execution and Jiang's ability to navigate unexpected challenges. Even Lim Choon Seng, who rarely expressed excitement, was overheard commending Jiang's efforts to senior staff.
But for Jiang, this was no time to bask in the afterglow. The Begging System, relentless as ever, chimed in with a new notification the day after the showcase.
[System Notification: Mission Triggered.]
Mission: Identify a unique problem in the workplace and propose an innovative solution.]
Reward: Creativity Enhancement (Advanced Level).]
Failure Penalty: -15 system points.]
Jiang read the notification carefully, his mind already spinning with possibilities.
The station had many moving parts, and like any organisation, it faced its fair share of inefficiencies. Jiang decided to start by observing the day-to-day operations closely, paying attention to potential areas of improvement.
Huiying, noticing Jiang's uncharacteristic silence during lunch, nudged him. "You're unusually quiet today. Plotting your next big move?"
Jiang smiled. "Something like that. I'm trying to figure out where the station could improve. Any ideas?"
Huiying tilted her head, considering the question. "Well, one thing that's always bothered me is how disorganised our communication channels are. Emails, group chats, physical memos—it's chaos. Important updates often get lost, and it slows us down."
Jiang nodded, filing the observation away. He spent the rest of the day gathering similar feedback from colleagues, framing his questions casually to avoid raising suspicion.
By the evening, Jiang had identified a recurring theme: the lack of a centralised communication system was a major pain point for the team.
To fulfil the system's mission, Jiang knew he needed expert advice. He reached out to Uncle Wong, whose logistics company had implemented innovative digital solutions during its prime.
Over a steaming pot of pu-erh tea, Jiang explained the station's communication issues. Uncle Wong listened intently, nodding occasionally.
"Jiang," Uncle Wong began, "the problem you're describing is common in organisations that haven't adapted to modern workflow tools. Back in my day, we implemented a centralised platform that combined messaging, task management, and file sharing. It made a world of difference."
Jiang leaned forward. "That sounds exactly like what we need. Do you think I could pitch something like that to the station?"
Uncle Wong chuckled. "You'll need to tailor your proposal to their specific needs, but yes, it's worth a try. Just be prepared—change is rarely welcomed with open arms."
Armed with Uncle Wong's advice, Jiang spent the next two days researching potential solutions. He zeroed in on a user-friendly platform that could integrate seamlessly into the station's existing workflow.
Jiang prepared a detailed proposal, outlining the platform's benefits:
Streamlined communication.Centralised task management.Reduced dependency on email chains and physical memos.Improved collaboration across teams.
Once the proposal was ready, Jiang scheduled a meeting with Lim Choon Seng to present his idea.
Jiang entered Lim's office with a calm confidence. The veteran manager gestured for him to sit, his expression neutral.
"I hear you have a proposal, Jiang," Lim said. "Let's hear it."
Jiang launched into his presentation, using clear examples to illustrate how the new platform could address the station's communication challenges. He highlighted the long-term benefits, including increased efficiency and cost savings.
As Jiang spoke, he noticed Lim's sceptical expression begin to soften.
"This is an interesting idea," Lim said once Jiang finished. "But implementing something like this will require time, money, and buy-in from the staff. How do you propose we overcome those hurdles?"
Jiang anticipated the question and responded confidently. "We can start with a pilot programme involving one or two departments. If it proves successful, we can scale up gradually. I'm also happy to lead training sessions to ensure a smooth transition."
Lim nodded, clearly impressed. "Alright, Jiang. I'll approve the pilot programme. Let's see how it performs."
While the pilot programme received approval, not everyone was enthusiastic about the change. Several employees grumbled about having to learn a new system, while others resisted outright, clinging to old habits.
Jiang didn't let the resistance deter him. He spent hours working closely with the pilot teams, patiently addressing their concerns and demonstrating how the platform could simplify their work.
One particularly vocal sceptic, Madam Lee, a veteran administrator, had dismissed the platform as "another unnecessary gimmick." Jiang approached her with a personalised demonstration, showing how the platform could automate her most tedious tasks.
By the end of the session, Madam Lee's scepticism had melted away. "Alright, Jiang," she said begrudgingly. "I'll give it a try. But if it doesn't work, I'll be the first to say 'I told you so.'"
A month later, the pilot programme exceeded expectations. Communication bottlenecks eased, productivity improved, and even the sceptics admitted the platform was a game-changer.
During a staff meeting, Lim Choon Seng publicly praised Jiang's initiative. "This is the kind of forward-thinking leadership we need," he said, earning Jiang a round of applause.
That evening, the Begging System chimed in.
[Mission Accomplished.]
Reward Unlocked: Creativity Enhancement (Advanced Level).]
Jiang smiled, feeling a surge of pride. Each mission, no matter how challenging, reinforced his belief in the value of persistence and innovation.
While Jiang celebrated his success, Lim De Kang seethed. His attempts to undermine Jiang had only backfired, making Jiang's accomplishments shine even brighter.
Determined to regain his standing, De Kang began plotting his next move. This time, he targeted Jiang's growing influence among senior management.
"Let's see how long you can keep up this act," De Kang muttered, his mind already working on a new scheme.
As Jiang walked home that evening, he reflected on the lessons he'd learned. Leadership wasn't just about making decisions—it was about inspiring trust, navigating resistance, and staying focused on the bigger picture.
"The system may guide me," Jiang thought, "but it's the people around me who shape my journey. If I can uplift them, we all succeed."
With renewed determination, Jiang prepared for the challenges ahead, knowing that each step brought him closer to his ultimate goal.
As Jiang Han returned to his desk, the applause from the meeting still echoed in his mind. The station's newfound efficiency was not just a professional win—it was a testament to the power of innovation, persistence, and teamwork. Yet, Jiang couldn't shake the feeling that Lim De Kang was lurking in the shadows, waiting for an opportunity to strike.
Determined to stay ahead, Jiang focused on reinforcing the relationships he had built with his colleagues. He organised casual team-building activities, including a weekend lunch outing, to foster camaraderie and break down any lingering barriers.
During one such outing, Huiying pulled Jiang aside. "You've really turned things around here, Jiang. People are finally seeing what you're capable of."
Jiang smiled. "It's not just me, Huiying. It's the team. Without everyone's efforts, none of this would have been possible."
Huiying's expression turned serious. "Still, keep your guard up. De Kang won't sit quietly for long."
Jiang nodded. He knew Huiying was right. De Kang's ambition and jealousy were a dangerous combination.
The following week, Jiang noticed a subtle shift in the atmosphere. A few colleagues began avoiding eye contact, and whispers seemed to follow him wherever he went. It wasn't long before Huiying brought him a troubling piece of information.
"Jiang," she said, handing him a printed email. "De Kang's been spreading rumours, claiming you only got Tan Liang's sponsorship through underhanded tactics."
Jiang clenched his fists but took a deep breath. "Let him talk. The truth will come out eventually. For now, we stay focused on the work."
Jiang decided not to confront De Kang directly, knowing it would only escalate the situation. Instead, he focused on strengthening his reputation through action. He took on additional responsibilities, mentored junior colleagues, and ensured that every task he touched was executed flawlessly.
His actions spoke louder than any rumour. As his colleagues witnessed his dedication and integrity, the whispers began to fade.
Just as the station returned to normalcy, the Begging System chimed with another notification:
[System Notification: New Mission Triggered.]
Mission: Turn an adversary into an ally.]
Reward: Negotiation Skill Upgrade (Advanced Level).]
Jiang chuckled, shaking his head. "System, you really don't give me a moment to rest, do you?"
With De Kang's next move uncertain, Jiang prepared himself for the challenge ahead, ready to turn even his fiercest rival into an asset.