The successful alliance with Dato' Rahman Arif set the stage for Jiang Han to expand his family's logistics business further. The victory, however, was bittersweet. Danish Afiq's glare during their last meeting lingered in Jiang's memory. He knew the young man's wounded pride would not let him rest, and the system's ominous hint about Danish's hostility confirmed that trouble was brewing.
Two days after finalising the deal with Dato' Rahman, Jiang received an urgent call from Amirul. His voice carried an edge of worry.
"Jiang, we need to talk. Meet me at the café near Jalan Petaling."
Jiang arrived at the bustling café, his curiosity piqued. Amirul was already seated, his brows furrowed in concern. As soon as Jiang sat down, Amirul leaned forward, lowering his voice.
"Word on the street is that Danish Afiq is plotting something. He's been calling in favours from his father's business associates, trying to discredit you."
Jiang sighed, leaning back in his chair. "I expected as much. Danish doesn't strike me as someone who takes defeat lightly."
Amirul nodded. "He's targeting your family's reputation. If he succeeds, it could jeopardise the partnership with Rahman and scare off other potential allies."
Jiang's jaw tightened. He wouldn't allow Danish to undo his hard work. "Thanks for the warning, Amirul. I'll handle it."
As Jiang left the café, the familiar chime echoed in his mind.
System Notification:
Mission: Neutralise Danish Afiq's Smear Campaign.
Objective: Protect your family's reputation and secure your business alliances.
Reward: Public Relations Skill (Intermediate).
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Loss of credibility and business partnerships.
The stakes were higher than ever, but Jiang felt a spark of determination. If Danish wanted to play dirty, Jiang would outwit him at every turn.
Jiang wasted no time. He gathered his family and key employees at the logistics warehouse for an emergency meeting. Jiang Yu, his brother, looked apprehensive.
"What's the plan, ge?" Jiang Yu asked. "We can't let this Danish guy ruin everything."
Jiang smiled reassuringly. "First, we need to address any potential vulnerabilities. We'll review our operations and fix anything that could be exploited."
Over the next 48 hours, Jiang meticulously examined every aspect of the business. He implemented stricter quality controls, improved communication channels, and enhanced customer service protocols. With these measures in place, any false claims against the business would be harder to believe.
Jiang knew that reactive measures weren't enough. He needed to go on the offensive. Through his network, he learned that Danish had arranged a business gathering at a prestigious hotel, inviting key players in the industry.
"Perfect," Jiang muttered to himself. "Time to turn the tables."
With his invitation secured, Jiang prepared meticulously. He crafted a presentation showcasing his family's achievements and plans for expansion. The presentation would not only highlight their strengths but also subtly discredit any false claims Danish might make.
The hotel ballroom was a dazzling display of wealth and influence. Jiang entered, exuding confidence despite the tense atmosphere. Danish was already there, surrounded by a group of attendees, his smile as sharp as a blade.
"Jiang," Danish greeted, his tone laced with mock warmth. "I wasn't expecting to see you here."
Jiang met his gaze with an unflinching smile. "Why wouldn't I be? It's a great opportunity to connect with the industry's finest."
Danish's smirk faltered, but he quickly recovered. "Well, good luck. You'll need it."
The event proceeded smoothly, with various speakers presenting their insights. When it was Jiang's turn, he took the stage with unwavering composure.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Jiang began, his voice clear and commanding. "In today's competitive landscape, integrity and innovation are the cornerstones of success. I'm proud to share how our logistics company has embraced these values to deliver exceptional results."
Jiang's presentation captivated the audience. He highlighted not only the company's achievements but also its commitment to ethical practices. His words resonated with many, and he could see the approval in their eyes.
As he concluded, Jiang added a pointed remark. "It's easy for baseless rumours to spread in our industry. But as professionals, we must look beyond the noise and focus on facts."
The audience erupted into applause, leaving Danish seething in his corner.
As Jiang stepped off the stage, he was approached by a striking woman in her late forties. Her poised demeanour and sharp eyes suggested a formidable intellect.
"Impressive presentation, Mr Jiang," she said, extending her hand. "I'm Datin Sharifah Khalida."
Jiang recognised the name immediately. She was the mother of Syed Fariz, another influential figure in Malayuna's business scene.
"Thank you, Datin," Jiang replied, shaking her hand. "It's an honour to meet you."
Sharifah leaned in slightly. "I've been watching the situation between you and Danish. Let's just say I have little patience for his antics. If you need support, don't hesitate to reach out."
Jiang nodded, grateful for the unexpected ally. "I appreciate your kindness, Datin. I'll keep that in mind."
Danish's attempts to discredit Jiang failed spectacularly. Not only did Jiang's presentation win over many attendees, but the support of figures like Datin Sharifah further solidified his reputation.
Two days later, Jiang received a call from Dato' Rahman himself. "Mr Jiang, I've heard about Danish's… efforts. I want to assure you that my trust in you remains unshaken. In fact, I'd like to discuss expanding our partnership."
Jiang felt a wave of relief and satisfaction. Danish's plans had backfired, and Jiang's position was stronger than ever.
System Notification:
Mission Complete: Neutralise Danish Afiq's Smear Campaign.
Reward: Public Relations Skill (Intermediate).
Bonus Hidden Reward: Increased Trust Among Key Industry Players.
The system's rewards felt well-earned, but Jiang knew there was no room for complacency. With each victory, his journey became more challenging, but also more rewarding.
As Jiang Han returned home that evening, the weight of the day settled on his shoulders. His meticulous preparation had paid off, but he couldn't ignore the lingering threat Danish Afiq posed. The smile on his face masked the whirlwind of thoughts racing in his mind. He needed to anticipate Danish's next move and strengthen his defences further.
Just as Jiang settled into his room to strategise, the familiar chime of the system echoed in his mind.
System Notification:
New Mission: Build Strategic Trust Among Business Magnates.
Objective: Gain the favour of at least three additional influential figures in Malayuna's business scene.
Reward: Leadership Skill (Advanced).
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Reduced influence and missed business opportunities.
Jiang chuckled to himself. "You never let me rest, do you?"
The system's missions were becoming increasingly complex, yet each success brought him closer to his ultimate goal. He knew this wasn't just about his family's business anymore. It was about building a legacy that could withstand any storm.
Jiang pulled out a notebook and began listing potential allies. Datin Sharifah Khalida's support was a valuable start, but he needed to broaden his network. Names like Tengku Hanafiah Zahid and Tan Sri Irwan Hakim stood out as challenging yet promising targets. These were individuals who could propel his business into the upper echelons of the industry if approached correctly.
The key, Jiang realised, wasn't just to impress these magnates but to create mutual value. He needed to present himself not as a mere beneficiary but as a reliable partner.
His phone buzzed, breaking his train of thought. It was Jiang Yu, his brother.
"Ge, I heard about what happened at the event. You really pulled it off!" Jiang Yu's voice brimmed with pride.
Jiang smiled. "Thanks, but there's more to be done. Danish won't stop here."
Jiang Yu paused. "Do you need help? I could take over some of the operational work while you focus on the bigger picture."
Jiang's heart warmed at the offer. "That would be great, Yu. Let's work together on this."
With his brother by his side, Jiang felt a renewed sense of determination. The road ahead was fraught with challenges, but he knew he wasn't walking it alone.