Jiang Han knew that success often attracted attention, and not all of it was positive. The recent deal with Zenith Corporation had solidified his family's logistics company as a rising contender in the industry, but it had also painted a target on his back. His instincts told him that the tranquillity was temporary—a storm was brewing.
At Divine Cross High School, Jiang Han tried to balance his dual life. Between classes and meetings, he kept his focus sharp. His close friends Mei Ling and Wei Lun noticed his heightened vigilance.
"Han, you've been quieter than usual," Mei Ling remarked as they worked on a group project in the library. "Is everything okay?"
Jiang Han gave her a small smile. "Just a lot on my mind. Balancing the business and school is proving more challenging than expected."
"Don't overwork yourself," Wei Lun added. "We've got your back if you need help with anything."
Jiang Han appreciated their concern but knew the battles ahead required a calculated approach. The Begging System had already begun setting the stage for his next challenge.
System Notification:
Mission: Counter a Financial Attack on Your Family's Business
Objective: Prevent Tengku Hanafiah Zahid and Danish Afiq from manipulating your company's credit lines.
Reward: Financial Analysis Skill (Advanced)
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Severe liquidity issues for the Jiang family business.
The mission details confirmed Jiang Han's suspicions. The Zenith deal had rattled the status quo, and his competitors weren't going to let him expand without a fight.
"Time to act," Jiang Han murmured, his mind already working through strategies.
Later that day, Jiang Han called a meeting with Jiang Yu and their parents. He laid out the threat, explaining how Tengku Hanafiah Zahid and Danish Afiq were likely using their influence in the financial sector to disrupt the company's cash flow.
"They're targeting our credit lines," Jiang Han explained. "If we can't counter their moves, it'll cripple our operations."
Jiang Yu frowned. "They're using underhanded tactics because they know they can't compete with us fairly."
"Exactly," Jiang Han replied. "But we won't let them succeed. Here's the plan..."
Jiang Han's strategy was multi-faceted. First, he reached out to key clients and partners, reinforcing their trust in the company's stability. He knew that maintaining confidence was crucial during a financial attack.
Next, Jiang Han arranged a meeting with their bank's senior executives. Armed with detailed financial records and contingency plans, he presented a compelling case for the company's resilience.
"Your competitors may try to sow doubt," Jiang Han told the bankers, "but our numbers speak for themselves. We've increased operational efficiency and secured long-term contracts with clients like Zenith Corporation. Any temporary disruptions are well within our capacity to handle."
The bankers were impressed by Jiang Han's thorough preparation and professionalism. "We appreciate your transparency, Mr Jiang," one of them said. "We'll monitor the situation closely, but for now, your credit lines remain secure."
Jiang Han knew the financial attack wasn't just about money—it was also a power play. He decided to confront Danish Afiq directly.
Danish was hosting a networking event at a luxury hotel in Petraling Jaya. Jiang Han arrived uninvited, his presence drawing curious glances from the crowd.
"Well, well," Danish sneered when he saw Jiang Han. "To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"Just here to clear the air," Jiang Han said calmly. "I know what you and Tengku Hanafiah are trying to do."
Danish feigned innocence. "I have no idea what you're talking about."
"Save the act," Jiang Han replied. "You're trying to destabilise my family's business, but it won't work. We've already taken measures to counter your moves."
Danish's smirk faltered, but he quickly recovered. "You think you're untouchable, don't you? Let me remind you, Jiang Han—this isn't just about business. It's about power. And you're playing in a league you don't belong to."
Jiang Han's gaze didn't waver. "Power without honour is hollow, Danish. Your tactics might work on others, but I'm not easily intimidated. If you want to fight, I'm ready."
Their exchange caught the attention of other attendees, some of whom discreetly recorded the conversation. Danish's thinly veiled threats did not paint him in a favourable light, and Jiang Han knew this was a small but significant victory.
System Notification:
Mission Completed: Counter a Financial Attack on Your Family's Business
Reward: Financial Analysis Skill (Advanced)
Bonus Hidden Reward Unlocked: Strategic Foresight (Passive Ability)
Jiang Han felt a surge of satisfaction. The new skill and passive ability were valuable assets for the battles ahead.
Back at the Jiang family home, Jiang Yu greeted Jiang Han with a grin. "I heard about your little showdown with Danish. Word spreads fast."
Jiang Han chuckled. "Sometimes, a direct approach is the most effective. How are things on your end?"
"We've solidified our partnerships," Jiang Yu reported. "Our clients are sticking with us, and the bank has reaffirmed its support. Danish and Tengku Hanafiah's attempts have backfired."
"Good work," Jiang Han said. "But we can't let our guard down. They'll try again."
Jiang Yu nodded. "What's next?"
"Next," Jiang Han replied, "we focus on expanding our network. The stronger our alliances, the harder it'll be for anyone to undermine us."
Jiang Han returned to Divine Cross High School the following morning, his mind still focused on the ongoing battle with Danish Afiq and Tengku Hanafiah Zahid. As he walked through the bustling hallways, his classmates greeted him warmly, though some eyed him with curiosity. It was no secret that Jiang Han's reputation was growing beyond the confines of the school.
During lunch, Mei Ling and Wei Lun joined him at their usual table.
"Rumour has it you crashed a high-profile event last night," Mei Ling said, raising an eyebrow. "What were you doing there?"
Jiang Han shrugged, playing it off casually. "Let's just say I had some business to attend to."
Wei Lun leaned in, whispering, "You're not getting involved in something dangerous, are you?"
Jiang Han paused, meeting Wei Lun's concerned gaze. "Sometimes, danger comes to you whether you want it or not. But don't worry—I know what I'm doing."
Mei Ling smirked. "Well, if you need backup, just say the word. I'm not above throwing punches if it comes to that."
Jiang Han laughed. "I'll keep that in mind."
As the school day ended, Jiang Han felt the familiar buzz of the Begging System activating. He discreetly checked the notification, his eyes narrowing as he read the details.
System Notification:
Mission: Establish Trust with an Unlikely Ally
Objective: Convince Haris Ridwan to provide insider information on Tengku Hanafiah Zahid's next move.
Reward: Negotiation Skill (Expert)
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Haris Ridwan becomes an active adversary.
Haris Ridwan was a name Jiang Han hadn't expected to see. As the son of Dato' Muzaffar Rahim, Haris was known for his unyielding loyalty to his family's interests. If Jiang Han could win him over, it would be a significant advantage. But the risk was equally high—failure would mean adding another powerful enemy to his list.
Jiang Han wasted no time. That evening, he reached out to Haris through a mutual acquaintance, proposing a private meeting at a neutral location. The choice of venue was deliberate—a quiet café on the outskirts of Petraling Jaya, far from prying eyes.
When Haris arrived, he exuded an air of confidence, his sharp suit and calculated movements reflecting his upbringing. He took a seat across from Jiang Han, his expression guarded.
"This is unexpected," Haris said, his tone clipped. "Why would someone like you want to meet with me?"
Jiang Han leaned forward, meeting Haris's gaze evenly. "Because I believe we have a common enemy."
Haris raised an eyebrow, intrigued but sceptical. "Go on."
"Tengku Hanafiah Zahid and Danish Afiq are making moves that threaten both of us," Jiang Han explained. "You may not see it yet, but their ambitions aren't limited to my family's business. They're positioning themselves to dominate the entire logistics sector, including your father's operations."
Haris frowned, his expression darkening. "And what do you expect me to do about it?"
"Share what you know about their plans," Jiang Han said. "In return, I'll ensure that their schemes backfire without implicating you or your family."
Haris studied Jiang Han for a long moment, weighing his words. "You're asking me to betray my allies."
"I'm asking you to protect your future," Jiang Han countered. "If you think Tengku Hanafiah and Danish will honour their alliances once they've secured their dominance, you're mistaken. They'll turn on you the moment it suits them."
The tension between them was palpable. Jiang Han knew he had to tread carefully—Haris's decision would shape the next phase of the battle.
To be continued...