Jiang Han sat in the corner of his modest office, his fingers tapping rhythmically against the desk. The newly upgraded Strategic Insight Boost glimmered in his mind, a fresh tool from the Begging System that provided him with clarity and precision in decision-making. Yet, despite his newfound edge, the constant assaults from Rayyan Hakimi loomed like a shadow over his progress.
As Jiang sifted through financial reports, Zhang Wei burst into the room, his face pale. "Jiang, we have a problem," he said, holding up his phone.
Jiang took the device, scanning the screen. It was an anonymous tip-off, revealing that one of their trusted logistics partners, Golden Phoenix Transport, was leaking internal operations data to Rayyan's camp. The betrayal stung, but Jiang forced himself to remain calm.
"It was bound to happen," Jiang said finally, his voice steady. "Rayyan's influence is vast, and some people are easily swayed. The question is—how do we turn this to our advantage?"
As if on cue, Jiang's mind buzzed with a familiar notification.
System Notification:
New Mission Assigned: Expose the Traitor and Secure Golden Phoenix's Loyalty.
Objective: Gather evidence of Golden Phoenix's betrayal and confront their leadership.
Reward: Trust Negotiation Skills.
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Jiang exhaled, his mind racing. While the mission was clear, the process would be delicate. If handled poorly, it could fracture his growing alliances.
"We need to be strategic," Jiang said. "Get me everything we have on Golden Phoenix—contracts, interactions, even informal exchanges. And Zhang, keep this quiet. If Rayyan knows we're onto him, he'll move to cover his tracks."
Jiang spent the next day poring over documents with Li Ming, who proved to be an invaluable partner. Her sharp analytical skills quickly identified anomalies in Golden Phoenix's shipping logs—suspicious delays and reroutes that coincided with Rayyan's recent expansions.
"This isn't just negligence," Li Ming said, pointing to the data. "These reroutes align too perfectly with Rayyan's operations."
Jiang nodded. "It's deliberate. The question is, who's orchestrating it from within?"
Their answer came in the form of a casual conversation with a Golden Phoenix employee, facilitated by one of Jiang's system-granted negotiation skills. The employee revealed that Zainal, the company's operations manager, had recently been meeting with Rayyan's representatives under the guise of "business consultations."
"That's our weak link," Jiang said. "Now, we need proof."
With Zhang Wei's help, Jiang set up a surveillance operation. They planted discreet recording devices in a café where Zainal often conducted his "business consultations." It didn't take long for the recordings to capture damning evidence—discussions of kickbacks, confidential data sharing, and even plans to undermine Jiang's family logistics business.
"Got him," Zhang said, his voice triumphant as they reviewed the evidence.
Jiang's expression was calm, though his eyes gleamed with determination. "It's not just about exposing him," he said. "We need to turn this into an opportunity."
Armed with the evidence, Jiang arranged a meeting with Dato' Harun Salleh, the owner of Golden Phoenix Transport. The meeting took place in a sleek, glass-walled boardroom overlooking the bustling streets of Petraling Jaya. Dato' Harun, a portly man with a shrewd gaze, greeted Jiang with a mixture of curiosity and caution.
"To what do I owe the pleasure, Jiang Han?" Dato' Harun asked, his tone polite but guarded.
Jiang placed a folder on the table, sliding it towards the older man. "Evidence of a betrayal within your company," he said simply.
Dato' Harun's expression darkened as he flipped through the documents and listened to the audio clips Jiang had brought. The proof was irrefutable.
"This is… unacceptable," Dato' Harun said, his voice tinged with anger. "Zainal will be dealt with immediately."
"That's a necessary step," Jiang said, "but it's not enough. Rayyan Hakimi is the true threat. If we act rashly, he'll simply find another pawn."
Dato' Harun raised an eyebrow. "What do you suggest?"
"Join forces with me," Jiang said. "Together, we can ensure that Golden Phoenix thrives while keeping Rayyan at bay. I've already implemented measures to protect my own business, and I'd be happy to extend those protections to yours."
Dato' Harun leaned back in his chair, studying Jiang intently. "You're bold, Jiang Han. But boldness alone isn't enough."
"It's not just boldness," Jiang replied, his voice steady. "It's strategy. And with all due respect, Dato', the evidence shows that you need someone who can outmanoeuvre Rayyan."
After a tense pause, Dato' Harun extended his hand. "You've made your case, Jiang. Golden Phoenix will back you—for now."
Jiang shook his hand firmly. "You won't regret it."
As Jiang left the boardroom, his system chimed once more.
System Notification:
Mission Complete: Expose the Traitor and Secure Golden Phoenix's Loyalty.
Reward Unlocked: Trust Negotiation Skill.
Bonus Hidden Reward: Enhanced Networking Boost.
That evening, Jiang sent a message to Rayyan through a neutral third party: "I know what you're doing. And I'm ready."
It was a calculated move, designed to unsettle his opponent without revealing too much. True to form, Rayyan didn't respond directly, but Jiang could feel the ripple of unease spreading through his rival's camp.
The victory with Golden Phoenix marked a turning point. With Dato' Harun's support, Jiang's logistics operations gained a crucial edge, allowing him to expand into territories previously dominated by Rayyan. But Jiang knew this was just one battle in a much larger war.
As he sat in his office that night, reviewing the day's progress, his thoughts turned to the future. The obstacles ahead were formidable, but so were the tools at his disposal. With each success, Jiang was growing stronger—not just as a businessman, but as a leader.
Jiang Han closed the folder in front of him, his mind racing as he reviewed the day's events. His move to secure Golden Phoenix's loyalty had been successful, but the undercurrent of tension remained. The battle with Rayyan Hakimi wasn't just a test of strategy; it was a clash of ambition, one that demanded Jiang's full attention.
"Zhang Wei," Jiang called, his voice firm.
Zhang entered the office, his expression eager. "What's next, Jiang? Rayyan won't take this lying down."
Jiang nodded. "He'll retaliate, but this time, we'll stay ahead. I need you to prepare a detailed analysis of our current partnerships. We need to ensure no more leaks occur. Focus on the smaller players—they're the most vulnerable to manipulation."
"Got it," Zhang replied, scribbling notes on his pad. "And Golden Phoenix?"
Jiang leaned back in his chair, a slight smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. "They'll be our shield. With Dato' Harun onboard, we've gained not just a partner but a deterrent. Rayyan will think twice before making another direct move."
The next morning, Jiang returned to Divine Cross High School. Despite his rising reputation in the business world, he remained a student, and his academic responsibilities couldn't be ignored. As he walked through the school gates, he noticed a group of students whispering, their gazes darting towards him.
"Did you hear? Jiang Han's family business is expanding like crazy!"
"Yeah, I heard he outsmarted Rayyan Hakimi. Can you imagine? A high schooler beating a corporate shark!"
Jiang paid little attention to the murmurs, focusing instead on his classes. Yet, he couldn't ignore the growing curiosity among his peers. Even Jun Kai, his longtime rival, seemed uneasy, glancing at Jiang with a mixture of suspicion and frustration.
During lunch, Jiang sat with Li Ming and Zhang Wei, the latter joining him on campus under the guise of delivering documents.
"You're becoming a legend here, you know," Li Ming said, her tone teasing. "The high school genius who's also a business mastermind."
Jiang chuckled. "Let them talk. What matters is keeping the momentum going."
As Jiang prepared for his next class, the familiar buzz of the system echoed in his mind.
System Notification:
New Mission Assigned: Leverage Your School Connections.
Objective: Secure a sponsorship deal from Syed Azlan Shah using your influence within the student body.
Reward: Networking Mastery.
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Jiang frowned, the mission details sparking a mix of intrigue and concern. Syed Azlan Shah, the father of Syed Fariz, was a powerful figure in the business world, known for his influence and ruthlessness. Convincing him to provide sponsorship would be no easy task, especially given Fariz's animosity towards Jiang.
"This will be tricky," Jiang murmured, earning curious looks from Li Ming and Zhang Wei.
"What's tricky?" Zhang asked.
"Syed Azlan Shah," Jiang replied. "The system wants me to secure a sponsorship deal from him. But with Fariz in the picture, this won't be a straightforward negotiation."
Li Ming raised an eyebrow. "Fariz isn't exactly your biggest fan. How do you plan to approach this?"
"With caution and creativity," Jiang said, a determined glint in his eyes. "We'll start by observing Fariz. If we understand his weaknesses, we can turn them into opportunities."
Over the next few days, Jiang and his team kept a close watch on Fariz's activities. They discovered that Fariz was deeply involved in organising the upcoming inter-school business competition—a prestigious event sponsored by none other than Syed Azlan Shah.
"Perfect," Jiang said, reviewing the details. "If we outperform Fariz's team, it'll force Syed Azlan to take notice. But we'll need a strategy that ensures our victory."
Li Ming smirked. "Leave it to me. I'll gather intel on the competition structure and rules. Zhang, you focus on logistics. Jiang, you'll need to assemble a team."
Jiang nodded. "Let's make this happen."
Jiang approached several talented students, carefully selecting individuals who excelled in various fields—finance, marketing, and strategy. Despite initial scepticism, his reputation as a problem-solver quickly won them over.
"Why should we trust you?" one student asked during a recruitment meeting.
"Because I don't just talk; I deliver," Jiang replied confidently. "Join me, and you'll not only win but learn skills that will set you apart in the real world."
His words resonated, and by the end of the week, Jiang had assembled a formidable team.
The day of the competition arrived, and the tension in the air was palpable. Fariz's team, backed by his father's resources, exuded confidence. But Jiang's team, though smaller and less experienced, radiated determination.
The competition consisted of three rounds: a marketing pitch, a financial analysis challenge, and a real-time business simulation. Jiang's team excelled in the first two rounds, thanks to their preparation and Jiang's guidance.
As they entered the final round, Fariz approached Jiang, his expression smug. "Enjoying your little moment, Jiang? Don't get too comfortable. This round will separate the amateurs from the professionals."
Jiang smiled calmly. "I agree. Let's see who comes out on top."
The final round was intense, with both teams navigating complex scenarios designed to test their decision-making skills. While Fariz relied on pre-planned strategies, Jiang adapted to the situation, using his Strategic Insight Boost to outmanoeuvre his opponents.
When the results were announced, Jiang's team emerged victorious, earning applause from the judges and spectators alike.
After the competition, Jiang approached Syed Azlan Shah, who had been watching from the VIP section.
"Dato' Syed," Jiang said, bowing respectfully. "Thank you for sponsoring such a well-organised event. It was an honour to participate."
Syed Azlan studied Jiang, but his expression was unreadable. "You performed impressively, Jiang Han. What brings you to me?"
Jiang handed Syed Azlan a proposal. "I believe we can create a mutually beneficial partnership. With your sponsorship, I can expand my family's logistics network, ensuring greater efficiency and reach. In return, I'll provide you with exclusive access to our services."
Syed Azlan's eyes narrowed as he reviewed the document. "You're bold, young man. But boldness alone won't secure my support."
"True," Jiang replied. "But results speak louder than words, and today's competition was just a glimpse of what I can achieve."
Syed Azlan chuckled. "You're audacious, Jiang Han. I like that. I'll consider your proposal."
As Jiang left the event, his system chimed with another update.
System Notification:
Mission Complete: Leverage Your School Connections.
Reward Unlocked: Networking Mastery.
Bonus Hidden Reward: Future Foresight Skill (Limited Use).
Jiang's lips curved into a satisfied smile. With each victory, he was inching closer to his ultimate goal.