The sun hung low over Petraling Jaya, casting long shadows across the bustling streets. Jiang Han stepped out of the sleek black car that had been sent to fetch him. The weight of the invitation from Tengku Hanafiah Zahid lingered in his mind. This meeting was no casual affair; it was a calculated test, one Jiang Han could not afford to fail.
System Notification:
Mission: Establish Trust with Tengku Hanafiah Zahid
Objective: Secure a mutually beneficial agreement while maintaining your reputation as a credible negotiator.
Reward: Strategic Insight Skill (Advanced)
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: A breakdown in negotiations, leading to a strained relationship with Tengku Hanafiah Zahid.
The bold text disappeared from his vision, but its presence echoed in Jiang Han's thoughts. He adjusted his tie and walked into the grand estate, the intricate marble flooring and ornate chandeliers exuding opulence.
A servant led him through the vast hallways until they reached an expansive sitting room. Tengku Hanafiah Zahid, a man in his late 50s with a commanding presence, sat in a high-backed leather chair. Beside him was Rayyan Hakimi, his son, whose smirk of superiority was already grating on Jiang Han's nerves.
"Jiang Han," Tengku Hanafiah greeted, his tone cordial but firm. "I've heard much about you. Please, have a seat."
Jiang Han inclined his head respectfully and took the offered chair. "Thank you for the invitation, Tengku. It's an honour to meet you."
Rayyan interjected, his tone laced with mockery. "It's surprising how quickly you've managed to make a name for yourself. But then again, unconventional methods do tend to draw attention."
Jiang Han's expression remained calm, his voice steady as he replied, "In a competitive world, success often requires unconventional thinking. I see it as innovation, not deviation."
Tengku Hanafiah raised an eyebrow, his gaze shifting between his son and Jiang Han. "Innovation, you say? That's a bold perspective for someone so young."
Jiang Han leaned forward slightly, meeting the older man's gaze. "Youth isn't a limitation, Tengku. It's an opportunity to approach challenges with fresh ideas and adapt to changing circumstances."
The room fell silent for a moment, tension crackling in the air. Tengku Hanafiah nodded slowly, impressed despite himself. "Interesting. Let's see if your actions match your words."
The discussion turned to business. Tengku Hanafiah outlined a potential collaboration, his terms straightforward but steep. Jiang Han listened intently, his mind racing to analyse the implications. The terms favoured Tengku Hanafiah heavily, but Jiang Han knew better than to outright refuse.
"Your offer is generous," Jiang Han began, carefully choosing his words. "However, for a partnership to thrive, it must be balanced. May I propose an adjustment that benefits both our interests?"
Rayyan scoffed, crossing his arms. "What could you possibly adjust? My father's terms are already fair."
Jiang Han turned to Rayyan, his tone polite but firm. "Fairness is subjective, Rayyan. A true partnership is built on mutual gain, not one-sided advantage."
He directed his attention back to Tengku Hanafiah, presenting his counterproposal with clarity and precision. His arguments were logical, highlighting how the adjustments would enhance profitability and reduce risks for both parties.
Tengku Hanafiah studied Jiang Han for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Then, a slow smile spread across his face. "You're sharp, Jiang Han. I can see why people speak highly of you. Very well, I'll consider your proposal."
Rayyan's smirk faltered, his frustration barely concealed. Jiang Han's composed demeanour and convincing arguments had shifted the power dynamics in the room.
System Notification:
Mission Update: Tengku Hanafiah Zahid is intrigued. Progress towards securing trust: 60%.
Jiang Han suppressed a smile. The system's updates were a small reassurance that he was on the right track. But the mission wasn't over yet.
As the conversation continued, Tengku Hanafiah shifted the topic to Jiang Han's reputation and the rumours surrounding his meteoric rise. "Tell me, Jiang Han, how do you handle the scrutiny that comes with success? Surely you've faced your share of detractors."
Jiang Han's gaze didn't waver. "Scrutiny is inevitable, Tengku, especially when one challenges the status quo. I view it as an opportunity to prove my integrity and resolve through my actions."
Tengku Hanafiah nodded approvingly. "A wise perspective. But actions often speak louder than words. I'll be watching closely to see if you live up to your claims."
The meeting concluded with Tengku Hanafiah agreeing to review Jiang Han's proposal in detail. As Jiang Han left the estate, the system chimed once more:
System Notification:
Mission Progress: 80%. Follow-up action is required to secure trust.
Jiang Han sighed softly, the weight of the mission still pressing on him. This was only the beginning; the real challenge lay in proving his worth beyond words.
Back at home, Jiang Yu greeted him with an eager expression. "Ge, how did it go?"
Jiang Han loosened his tie, his mind still replaying the meeting. "It went well, Yu, but it's not over yet. Tengku Hanafiah is testing me. I need to follow up with something concrete to seal the deal."
Jiang Yu nodded, his determination matching his brother's. "Whatever you need, Ge, I'm here to help."
Jiang Han smiled, placing a hand on his brother's shoulder. "Thanks, Yu. I'll need your sharp eyes and quick thinking for this one."
The brothers brainstormed late into the night, mapping out strategies and preparing for the next steps. Jiang Han's focus never wavered, his mind a whirlwind of calculations and contingency plans.
The next morning, Jiang Han sat at his desk, reviewing the revised proposal for Tengku Hanafiah Zahid. Every detail had been meticulously examined to ensure there were no loopholes or misunderstandings. Jiang Yu, standing nearby with a cup of tea, observed his brother with a mix of admiration and worry.
"Ge, don't push yourself too hard," Yu said softly. "You've been at this since last night."
Jiang Han glanced up, a faint smile breaking his otherwise serious expression. "It's not about pushing too hard, Yu. It's about ensuring this family's survival. Tengku Hanafiah is no ordinary man. One slip, and he'll see right through us."
Jiang Yu nodded, understanding the weight of the task. Yet, he couldn't shake the unease that lingered in his heart. "But even the strongest person needs rest, Ge. You're no good to anyone if you collapse."
Jiang Han sighed, putting down his pen. "You're right, Yu. A clear mind is sharper than a tired one. I'll take a short break."
Just as he leaned back in his chair, the Begging System activated, and a familiar notification appeared in bold and italicised text:
System Notification:
Mission: Secure Tengku Hanafiah Zahid's Official Endorsement
Objective: Convince Tengku Hanafiah to sign a formal agreement supporting your family's logistics business.
Reward: Negotiation Mastery Skill (Level Up)
Bonus Hidden Reward: ???
Failure Consequence: Tengku Hanafiah will withdraw any informal promises previously made.
Jiang Han's expression turned grim as he read the notification. The stakes were higher than ever, and the system's additional consequence only amplified the pressure.
"Yu," Jiang Han said, his voice firm. "It's time to take this to the next level. Gather everything we need—documents, charts, and a list of projections. We're meeting Tengku Hanafiah today."
"Today?" Jiang Yu's eyes widened. "Ge, are you sure we're ready?"
"We don't have the luxury of time, Yu. If we hesitate, someone else will seize this opportunity."
By noon, the Jiang brothers stood outside Tengku Hanafiah's lavish office building. The grandeur of the place was intimidating, with its polished marble floors and towering glass walls reflecting the sun's brilliance. Jiang Yu clutched the documents tightly, his knuckles whitening under the strain.
"Relax, Yu," Jiang Han said, placing a reassuring hand on his brother's shoulder. "We've prepared for this. Trust me."
As they were ushered into the opulent conference room, Jiang Han noted the subtle details designed to overwhelm visitors—the intricately carved wood panelling, the soft leather chairs, and the faint scent of expensive cologne that lingered in the air.
Tengku Hanafiah Zahid sat at the head of the table, his imposing presence magnified by his tailored suit and piercing gaze. "Ah, Jiang Han. I've been expecting you," he said, gesturing for them to sit. "I trust you've brought something... compelling."
Jiang Han smiled politely, his confidence unwavering. "Tengku Hanafiah, we've worked tirelessly to present you with a proposal that not only highlights the mutual benefits of our partnership but also showcases our dedication and integrity."
Jiang Yu quickly handed over the documents, his hands trembling slightly as he avoided Tengku Hanafiah's scrutinising gaze.
For the next hour, Jiang Han navigated the conversation with precision. He anticipated Tengku Hanafiah's scepticism, countering every doubt with clear data and compelling arguments. Yet, there was an undeniable tension in the room, an undercurrent of resistance from the influential tycoon.
"Tengku Hanafiah," Jiang Han said, leaning forward slightly, his tone firm but respectful. "I understand that trust isn't built overnight, especially with a family like ours that's still finding its footing. But I assure you, this partnership isn't just about numbers. It's about creating a legacy that benefits both of us."
Tengku Hanafiah's eyes narrowed, his silence stretching uncomfortably. Jiang Yu held his breath, bracing for the worst.
Finally, Tengku Hanafiah leaned back, a faint smirk playing on his lips. "You're bold, Jiang Han. I admire that. But boldness alone won't sway me."
Jiang Han's heart sank, but he maintained his composure. "Then tell me, Tengku Hanafiah. What would it take to earn your endorsement?"
The room fell silent again, the weight of the question hanging in the air. After what felt like an eternity, Tengku Hanafiah stood, extending his hand. "Prove your worth in the next month. Deliver results that align with your promises, and we'll talk about formalising this partnership."
Jiang Han stood as well, accepting the handshake. "You won't be disappointed, Tengku Hanafiah."
As they left the office, Jiang Yu finally exhaled, his nerves frayed. "Ge, that was intense! I thought he was going to reject us outright."
Jiang Han chuckled, the tension easing from his shoulders. "It's a game, Yu. And we're still in it. Now comes the hard part—proving ourselves."
System Notification:
Mission Update: You have one month to achieve tangible results and secure Tengku Hanafiah Zahid's formal endorsement. Failure Consequence remains active.
Jiang Han's resolve hardened as he read the update. The road ahead was fraught with challenges, but his determination burned brighter than ever.