The air in Petraling Jaya felt unusually heavy as Jiang Han made his way to school the next morning. The streets bustled with their usual chaos, but Jiang's mind was elsewhere. He couldn't shake the feeling that Rayyan Hakimi was already plotting his next move. The system's warning the previous night only solidified his resolve. Diversifying the logistics network wasn't just a strategy—it was survival.
System Notification:
Mission Reminder: Implement three new delivery routes within the next 30 days.
Reward: Logistics Management Skill (Intermediate)
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Operational delays and strained family resources.
As Jiang reread the notification, he steeled himself. Failure was not an option.
At school, Jiang's reputation was steadily shifting. Whispers of his academic prowess and his involvement in his family's business were circulating among his peers. However, this newfound respect also attracted unwanted attention.
Jun Kai, his long-time rival, approached him during a break.
"Jiang Han," Jun sneered, leaning casually against Jiang's desk. "I heard your little stunt with the Hakimi family. Not bad for someone who barely scraped through last term's exams."
Jiang met his gaze evenly. "I take it you're here for a reason, Jun Kai. Or do you just enjoy wasting time?"
Jun's smirk faltered for a split second. "Careful, Han. Not everyone appreciates your rising star act. Some of us prefer to keep things balanced."
Jiang tilted his head, feigning curiosity. "Balanced? Is that your excuse for mediocrity? Or are you just projecting your insecurities?"
The surrounding students stifled laughter as Jun's face darkened.
"This isn't over," Jun hissed before storming away.
As amusing as the encounter was, it served as a reminder: while Jiang's actions were earning him allies, they were also drawing enemies from every corner.
That evening, Jiang met Zhang Wei at the warehouse. They reviewed the progress of the first alternative route Jiang had proposed. The initial trial had been successful, but the team faced resistance from local players who felt their territory was being encroached upon.
"We received a warning from one of the smaller logistics groups in the area," Zhang Wei reported. "They don't like competition, especially not from a family business."
Jiang leaned back, his fingers steepled. "This was expected. We'll handle it with diplomacy first. Arrange a meeting with their representative. I'll go myself."
Zhang Wei hesitated. "Are you sure that's wise? These people aren't exactly reasonable."
Jiang's lips curled into a small smile. "That's precisely why I need to meet them. If we show fear, they'll only press harder. Besides…"
System Notification:
Sub-Mission Activated: Resolve the territorial dispute with the local logistics group.
Objective: Secure cooperation or neutralise opposition peacefully.
Reward: Negotiation Skill (Advanced)
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Increased hostility and disrupted routes.
"…it's part of the plan," Jiang finished, his eyes gleaming.
Two days later, Jiang found himself in a dimly lit café on the outskirts of Petraling Jaya. Across the table sat Mr. Low, a grizzled man with sharp eyes that seemed to pierce through Jiang's calm façade.
"You've got nerve, kid," Mr. Low began, his voice gravelly. "Most people in your position would've backed off."
Jiang smiled politely. "And most people in your position would've tried to see the bigger picture."
Mr. Low raised an eyebrow. "Enlighten me."
Jiang leaned forward. "Our routes don't have to compete. In fact, with some coordination, we can complement each other. Your group specialises in urban deliveries, while we're focusing on regional connections. Together, we could dominate both."
The older man chuckled darkly. "And what's stopping me from simply shutting you out entirely?"
Jiang's smile widened. "Because that would cost you more in the long run. Sabotaging us would mean resources diverted from your current operations, legal risks, and unnecessary bad blood. Or…" He gestured slightly. "You could partner with us and enjoy the mutual benefits."
Mr Low's eyes narrowed. "You've got guts, I'll give you that. But why should I trust a kid like you?"
Jiang's expression turned serious. "Because I don't make promises I can't keep. And because if you don't trust me now, you'll have to deal with my family's growth later. Either way, we're not going anywhere."
For a long moment, silence hung between them. Then, Mr. Low leaned back and nodded slowly. "Alright, kid. You've got yourself a deal—for now."
While the negotiations with Mr. Low were a success, Jiang knew this was only one piece of the puzzle. The Hakimi family was far from idle. True to form, Rayyan Hakimi had already begun manoeuvring behind the scenes.
Jiang's contacts informed him that Rayyan was planning a bold move: leveraging his father's influence to secure exclusive contracts with several key suppliers. If successful, this would severely limit Jiang's family's access to resources.
Jiang called an emergency meeting with Zhang Wei and the team.
"We need to act fast," Jiang said, pacing the room. "If Rayyan locks us out of the supply chain, our new routes won't matter."
"Do we have any leverage?" Zhang Wei asked.
Jiang's mind raced. "Not directly, but there's another angle. One of the suppliers Rayyan is targeting has been under scrutiny for unfair labour practices. If we bring this to light, it could jeopardise their partnerships, including Rayyan's."
Zhang Wei frowned. "That's risky. If this backfires…"
"It won't," Jiang said firmly. "We'll present the facts to the relevant authorities anonymously. Let them handle it. Meanwhile, we'll solidify our relationships with the other suppliers to ensure we're not caught off guard."
System Notification:
Mission Update: Prevent Rayyan Hakimi from monopolising the supply chain.
Objective: Disrupt Rayyan's negotiations with key suppliers.
Reward: Strategic Insight Skill (Intermediate)
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Significant resource shortages for the logistics network.
As Jiang worked tirelessly to counter Rayyan's moves, he reflected on the lessons he had learned so far. Each challenge pushed him to think critically, adapt, and anticipate. His past life's achievements as a software engineer had given him a foundation, but this new journey demanded far more than technical expertise.
He realised that success wasn't just about solving problems—it was about creating opportunities and staying three steps ahead.
And for Jiang Han, failure was never an option.
The warehouse buzzed with activity as Jiang Han arrived late in the evening. Zhang Wei was already waiting, poring over maps and reports, a mix of triumph and concern etched on his face. Jiang grabbed a bottle of water and joined him at the table.
"We've managed to secure cooperation with Mr. Low's logistics group," Zhang Wei began. "But Rayyan's actions are escalating faster than we anticipated. He's set up a meeting with three key suppliers tomorrow."
Jiang frowned, his mind racing. "He's cornering us into a reactive position. That's his strength—acting before his opponents can."
Zhang nodded. "What's the plan?"
Jiang tapped the table thoughtfully. "We need to stay ahead, not just counter. Let's divide and conquer. I'll attend the suppliers' meeting covertly. Meanwhile, I want our team to double down on strengthening alternative supply lines. Ensure we're insulated if his deal goes through."
Zhang's eyes widened. "You're going to infiltrate the meeting? Isn't that too risky?"
Jiang smirked. "Risky is sitting idly while Rayyan tightens his grip."
The next morning, Jiang slipped into the meeting disguised as an intern for one of the suppliers. His unassuming outfit and calm demeanour allowed him to blend in seamlessly. The suppliers, powerful figures in the local market, gathered in a sleek conference room. At the centre of it all sat Rayyan Hakimi, exuding confidence.
"Gentlemen," Rayyan began, flashing his trademark smirk. "I've gathered you here because I believe our collaboration can redefine the logistics sector. By aligning with my family's resources, you'll gain unparalleled advantages."
Jiang observed quietly from the back, noting the subtle hesitations on the suppliers' faces. They weren't entirely convinced. He needed to strike at the perfect moment.
As Rayyan finished his pitch, one of the suppliers, Mr. Tan, cleared his throat. "Your proposal is compelling, but committing to an exclusive deal carries significant risks. What guarantees can you offer?"
Rayyan leaned forward. "My family's influence ensures stability. We've never had a deal fall apart due to lack of resources or political pressure."
Jiang saw his opening. Stepping forward, he feigned nervousness as he addressed the group. "Excuse me, gentlemen. May I add something to the discussion?"
Rayyan's eyes narrowed, but he didn't interrupt, curious about the bold interruption.
Jiang took a deep breath, steadying himself. "While exclusivity might seem like a secure option, it can stifle your growth in the long run. Diversifying partnerships allows you to mitigate risks and adapt to market changes more effectively."
The suppliers murmured among themselves, considering his words.
"And," Jiang continued, locking eyes with Mr. Tan, "relying too heavily on a single entity makes you vulnerable to their decisions. What happens if their priorities shift or if their influence wanes?"
Rayyan's composure faltered slightly, but he quickly regained his smirk. "And who are you to lecture us on market dynamics?"
Jiang smiled politely. "Just an observer who believes that true strength lies in balanced partnerships, not monopolies."
The subtle challenge in his tone wasn't lost on the room. The suppliers exchanged glances, their interest piqued.
As the meeting concluded, Jiang slipped out before Rayyan could confront him. He headed to a nearby café, where Zhang Wei was waiting.
"How did it go?" Zhang asked eagerly.
Jiang grinned. "I planted seeds of doubt. Rayyan won't have the smooth sailing he expected."
Before they could celebrate, Jiang's phone buzzed with a notification.
System Notification:
Mission Update: Disrupt Rayyan Hakimi's monopoly negotiations.
Objective Status: Partial success.
Reward Progress: Strategic Insight Skill (Intermediate) - 60% unlocked.
Bonus Hidden Reward: Pending.
"Partial success?" Jiang muttered. "The system's being stingy."
Zhang chuckled. "You've made progress. But knowing Rayyan, he won't let this slide."
True to Zhang's prediction, Rayyan wasted no time in retaliating. By evening, word spread that Rayyan had filed complaints with the local logistics board, accusing Jiang's family business of regulatory violations. It was a blatant attempt to disrupt their operations.
Jiang gathered his team for an emergency meeting. "We can't let this derail us. Zhang, compile all our compliance records. I'll handle the logistics board myself."
"But they're likely in Rayyan's pocket," Zhang warned.
"Exactly," Jiang replied. "That's why I'll bring public attention to this."
The next morning, Jiang stood outside the logistics board's office with a reporter from a local news outlet. Using the system's newfound Strategic Insight Skill, he orchestrated a subtle media campaign to expose Rayyan's tactics.
As he presented his case to the logistics board, the reporter captured every word.
"Our business has always operated with integrity," Jiang stated firmly. "These allegations are baseless and designed to undermine fair competition. I trust the board will act impartially."
The pressure worked. By the end of the day, the board dismissed Rayyan's complaints, citing insufficient evidence. The media coverage turned the tables, painting Jiang as a resilient underdog standing up against powerful adversaries.
As Jiang returned home that evening, exhausted but triumphant, he reflected on the day's events. Each challenge tested his resolve, forcing him to adapt and grow. His past life's expertise as a software engineer had laid the foundation, but this new journey demanded far more than technical skills.
The system chimed again.
System Notification:
Mission Complete: Disrupt Rayyan Hakimi's monopoly negotiations.
Reward Unlocked: Strategic Insight Skill (Intermediate).
Bonus Hidden Reward: Resource Optimisation Tool (Unlocked).
A smile spread across Jiang's face as he reviewed the details of the new tool. It would allow him to streamline operations further, giving his family's business a competitive edge.
But Jiang knew this was just the beginning. The Hakimi family wasn't defeated—they were merely regrouping. And with every step forward, the stakes grew higher.