Pingjiang Chamber of Commerce, with Mao Lin seated at the top, bore a gloomy atmosphere. A high-level executive broke the silence, urging the chairman to devise a solution. The impending evaluation of the chamber of commerce heightened the urgency.
"Chairman, we know a city can only have one first-level chamber of commerce. Now, it's crucial during the chamber of commerce evaluation!" a high-level executive exclaimed, expressing the pressing nature of the situation.
Another executive added, "Our competition with Baofeng Chamber of Commerce was evenly matched. Even in market exploration for gold, silver, and items for cultivators, we outperformed them. However, with just a book, Baofeng Chamber of Commerce increased its revenue by twenty percent compared to ours this month. If this continues next month, we'll concede the title of the first-level chamber of commerce."
"That's right. In the future, we'll have to follow Baofeng Chamber of Commerce's wishes. Even the pricing of goods and market selection will be at their discretion," another executive voiced, highlighting the potential consequences.
The entire conference hall was filled with worry. Mao Lin's face grew even gloomier, and the creaking sounds echoed as he tightened his grip on the chair. He never anticipated that Yi Feng's seemingly insignificant book, which he initially thought would sell only two copies with his help, would turn into a major success for Baofeng Chamber of Commerce. Not only did it overshadow Pingjiang Chamber of Commerce, but it also boosted profits by twenty percent.
"Chairman, I heard the original author of this book approached you before?" someone asked Mao Lin, prompting him to address a potentially sensitive matter.
Mao Lin raised his eyebrows, attempting to downplay the situation. Indeed, Yi Feng had initially approached him, but he handed over the opportunity to others, a decision he now regretted deeply.
Feeling embarrassed, he coughed and waved his hand, saying, "Don't worry, everyone. Pingjiang Chamber of Commerce has faced numerous challenges before, and I will resolve this matter."
"How does the Chairman plan to solve it?" someone inquired, as the chamber of commerce was a collective entity, and this issue had implications for everyone.
"I have a bit of friendship with the author. I will talk to him again and persuade him to return to Pingjiang Chamber of Commerce for publication," Mao Lin stated with an unpleasant expression.
"Chairman, people have just started seeking cooperation with our chamber of commerce. We initially rejected him, and now we want him back. Is it that easy?" another person expressed concern, mirroring the worries of many.
Despite the challenges, Mao Lin had to find a way to bring Yi Feng back. The questioning and doubts from the high-level executives were mounting.
"You don't need to worry about this. I have some friendship with him, and I will make sure he returns. Rest assured!" Mao Lin declared, attempting to reassure the anxious executives.
"We hope so," the executives conceded. Since Mao Lin had made this commitment, they could only temporarily choose to believe it as the meeting concluded.
Meanwhile, far away from the scenes of Pingjiang City, atop a highest peak, a courtyard with a breathtaking view welcomed the white-clad woman, accompanied by the sound of a zither. A maid named Mao Mao arrived with joy, delivering news of Yi Feng's new book, sparking excitement in the woman.
The woman hurriedly greeted Mao Mao, eager to inspect the book herself. Despite the scolding, Mao Mao prepared a seat and tea, allowing the woman to immerse herself in the new creation. As the woman delved into the narrative, she became captivated, losing herself in the intricate love story depicted.
Later, Mao Mao mentioned that Yi Feng was the author of "Dream of the Red Chamber," piquing the woman's interest. Instructing Mao Mao not to disturb her unless necessary, the woman continued to explore the enchanting world created by Yi Feng's words.
As the white-clad woman remained engrossed, knocking sounds disrupted the tranquility, leaving both her and Mao Mao puzzled.