The morning sunlight spilled through the office windows as Jiang Han reviewed his latest progress report. Despite Fariz's persistent interference, the logistics network Jiang had painstakingly built was holding firm. Yet, Jiang knew that merely holding the line wasn't enough—he needed to go on the offensive.
As he was lost in thought, a System Notification lit up his peripheral vision.
System Notification:
Mission: Expose Fariz's Manipulations.
Objective: Uncover and publicly reveal Fariz's underhanded tactics without violating ethical boundaries.
Reward: Reputation Boost (Regional) and Influence Skill (Intermediate).
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Credibility loss within Petraling Jaya's business community.
A slow smile spread across Jiang's face. The system had impeccable timing. "It's time to make Fariz taste his own medicine," he muttered, determination hardening his resolve.
Jiang's first step was to dig deeper into Fariz's activities. He contacted his trusted ally Zhang Wei, whose knack for uncovering hidden details had proven invaluable.
"Zhang Wei, I need you to focus all efforts on Fariz's operations—specifically his connections with the transport authorities and his deals with rival operators. We're looking for irregularities," Jiang instructed.
Zhang Wei's response was immediate. "Got it, boss. I'll pull some strings and see what comes up."
Meanwhile, Jiang activated the Data Aggregation Module, a feature unlocked through a previous mission. The module collated scattered data from various public and private sources, highlighting potential weak points in Fariz's network.
Within hours, Zhang Wei delivered a file thick with details. The evidence painted a damning picture: Fariz had been using bribes and favours to manipulate inspection schedules, delay rival shipments, and secure exclusive contracts. The most incriminating detail, however, was an illicit agreement between Fariz and a corrupt transport officer. A deal to block Jiang's routes in exchange for a hefty sum was now thoroughly documented.
Jiang reviewed the information carefully, ensuring every piece was airtight. "Perfect," he said, a glint of triumph in his eyes. "Now, we set the stage."
The next move was to release the information strategically. Jiang wasn't about to haphazardly fling accusations—this required precision. He scheduled a meeting with Tengku Hanafiah Zahid, one of the most respected figures in Petraling Jaya's business circle.
The meeting took place in Tengku Hanafiah's sprawling estate, a symbol of old wealth and influence. Over tea, Jiang presented his case.
"Tengku Hanafiah, I've uncovered something troubling regarding Fariz's recent activities," Jiang began, his tone measured.
The elder tycoon raised an eyebrow but gestured for Jiang to continue.
Jiang laid out the evidence, careful to emphasise that his intent wasn't to tarnish reputations but to protect the integrity of the business community. "I believe transparency and fairness are critical for all of us to thrive," Jiang concluded.
Tengku Hanafiah leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. "You've done your homework, young man. If what you're saying is true, then this cannot go unaddressed. Leave it with me."
Jiang left the estate knowing he had planted a crucial seed.
Tengku Hanafiah didn't disappoint. Within days, rumours began circulating among the business elite about Fariz's questionable dealings. Jiang subtly fuelled the narrative by providing anonymous tips to local journalists, ensuring the story gained traction without directly implicating himself.
The final blow came when a respected newspaper published an exposé detailing Fariz's manipulations. While the article stopped short of naming Jiang as the source, it was clear who had initiated the counterattack.
Fariz's carefully curated image of a savvy businessman was now under siege. Calls for accountability echoed across the community, and key allies began to distance themselves from him.
Fariz wasn't one to take defeat lying down. A week later, he stormed into a high-profile networking event where Jiang was presenting his latest proposal for a regional logistics hub.
As Jiang wrapped up his presentation to applause, Fariz's voice cut through the room. "Jiang Han, how dare you smear my name with baseless accusations!"
The room fell silent as all eyes turned to the two rivals.
Jiang met Fariz's glare with a calm, confident smile. "Fariz, I didn't need to 'smear' your name. The truth speaks for itself."
Fariz clenched his fists, but Jiang wasn't finished. "Perhaps instead of blaming others, you should focus on rebuilding the trust you've broken. Or is that too much to ask?"
The crowd murmured in agreement. Fariz, visibly shaken, retreated under the weight of public scrutiny. The face-smacking moment was as satisfying as it was decisive.
Back in his office, Jiang took a moment to reflect on the whirlwind of events. The mission had tested not only his skills but also his resolve to act ethically in the face of adversity.
System Notification:
Mission Complete: Expose Fariz's Manipulations.
Reward: Reputation Boost (Regional) and Influence Skill (Intermediate).
Bonus Reward Unlocked: Negotiation Mastery (Advanced).
Jiang's grin widened. The rewards were proof that he was on the right path. With each challenge, he was growing—not just as a businessman, but as a leader.
The victory over Fariz brought with it a surge of new opportunities. Tengku Hanafiah, impressed by Jiang's resourcefulness and integrity, extended an invitation to collaborate on a large-scale project that could elevate Jiang's logistics business to new heights.
Jiang knew the road ahead would be fraught with challenges, but he welcomed them. For every obstacle, there was a lesson to be learned—and Jiang Han was ready to learn them all.
As the dust from Fariz's public humiliation settled, Jiang Han began preparing for the next stage of his growth. The victory had bolstered his confidence, but he knew the attention of new rivals was inevitable. Success always comes with a price.
The system chimed in, jolting Jiang from his thoughts.
System Notification:
Mission: Leverage Your Victory.
Objective: Use your elevated reputation to secure two key contracts for your family's logistics business.
Reward: Strategic Thinking Skill (Advanced).
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Momentum loss and decreased trust from new allies.
Jiang smirked. "A challenge that matches the moment. Perfect."
Jiang wasted no time setting up meetings with two influential figures who had expressed interest in collaborating: Danish Afiq's father, Dato' Rahman Arif, and Tengku Hanafiah Zahid.
He started with Dato' Rahman, a seasoned businessman with a reputation for being both shrewd and sceptical. The meeting was held at a golf club—Rahman's favourite venue for discussing deals.
As Jiang approached, Rahman eyed him curiously. "You've certainly made waves recently, Jiang Han. But can you handle the weight that comes with those waves?"
Jiang smiled confidently. "Dato', a wave is only as strong as its preparation. Let me show you why my logistics network can weather any storm."
The conversation flowed smoothly as Jiang showcased his plans for expansion and efficiency, backed by insights from the system's Strategic Projection feature. By the end of the meeting, Rahman's scepticism had turned to cautious optimism.
"I'll give you a trial contract. Prove yourself, and we'll talk about a longer partnership," Rahman said, extending his hand.
Jiang shook it firmly. "You won't regret it, Dato'."
The second meeting was more of a formality. Tengku Hanafiah had already expressed his interest in supporting Jiang after the Fariz debacle. However, Jiang knew the importance of maintaining transparency and showing gratitude.
The meeting took place in Tengku Hanafiah's private library, an impressive room filled with rare books and artefacts. Jiang presented a detailed proposal, including a risk assessment and projected returns for the partnership.
The elder tycoon nodded thoughtfully. "Your attention to detail is commendable, Jiang Han. I see a bright future for you. Let's make this partnership official."
Jiang bowed slightly. "Thank you, Tengku Hanafiah. I won't disappoint."
With both contracts secured, Jiang returned to his office, only to find a new challenge waiting for him. Zhang Wei greeted him with a grim expression.
"Boss, I just got wind that Hafiy Zafran's father, Dato' Seri Zainuddin Adnan, is planning to poach key clients from our network. He's using aggressive pricing tactics."
Jiang's eyes narrowed. "So, the next attack has begun. Good. Let's counter it."
System Notification:
Bonus Mission Unlocked: Defend Your Network.
Objective: Retain at least 80% of your current client base while mitigating losses.
Reward: Defensive Strategy Module.
Failure Consequence: Reduced market credibility.
Jiang felt the familiar adrenaline rush that came with each mission. This wasn't just about survival—it was about proving once again that he could outwit even the most formidable opponents.
Jiang called an emergency meeting with his team. "We need to act fast. Identify our most vulnerable clients and reach out to them personally. Offer customised solutions, incentives, and assurances that our service quality remains unmatched."
He also instructed Zhang Wei to gather intel on Zainuddin's tactics. "Knowledge is our greatest weapon. Find their weak points."
As his team sprang into action, Jiang leaned back in his chair, a determined look in his eyes. This was only the beginning, and he was ready for whatever came next.