...
He picked up his phone and quickly dialed the number of one of his system-provided managers. The line connected, and Zastan launched into his plan without delay.
"I need a new warehouse," Zastan instructed, his tone firm and business-like.
"We're going to set up a production line dedicated to a new product—a milk tea that's going to blow everything else out of the water. It's made from common ingredients, but the way it's crafted makes it irresistible. This is going to be big."
The manager listened attentively, jotting down notes as Zastan outlined his vision.
"We're going to need the ingredients and equipment to start production immediately," Zastan continued, his excitement palpable. "I'll send over the exact details right after this call. And remember, this is confidential—no leaks. We can't afford to let this recipe get out."
"Yes, Young Master," the manager responded, his voice filled with determination. "I'll have everything ready within a day or two. We'll ensure the recipe is followed to the letter, and I'll make sure the security measures are in place to protect it."
"Perfect," Zastan replied, satisfied. "Make sure the production quality is flawless. This is going to be positioned as a premium product, even if the ingredients are everyday items. The key is in how we present it."
After ending the call, Zastan turned to his laptop. He typed out the full recipe for the Eternal Enchantment Milk Tea, detailing every step with meticulous care. He included clear instructions about maintaining confidentiality and highlighted the strategic importance of the recipe as a cornerstone of their new venture.
While he trusted the unwavering loyalty of his Biochemical Persons, he knew that scaling the business could draw unwanted attention. Competitors might try to steal the recipe or replicate the drink's success, so he needed to be prepared.
Satisfied with his work, Zastan sent the document to the manager. Moments later, a response came through.
Manager: "Understood, Young Master. We'll have the first batches of the milk tea ready within the next couple of days, strictly according to your specifications. Everything will be kept secure."
Zastan leaned back, a sense of accomplishment washing over him. The milk tea venture was just another step in building his empire, but it was one that held incredible promise. With the right marketing, this everyday drink could be transformed into a sought-after luxury item, making waves across Luminae and beyond.
He could already envision the lines of people, each one eager for their next taste of the Eternal Enchantment Milk Tea, each sip weaving its way into their memories, making them crave the elusive flavor again and again.
...
Just as he was about to dive into another game on his computer, his phone rang, interrupting his reverie. He glanced at the caller ID—it was Darius.
"Zastan, good news," Darius said as soon as Zastan answered. "The metal rods—production is complete for the day. You can come over now and start converting them into points."
Zastan leapt out of his gaming chair, the excitement palpable. He didn't even bother closing his game. This was the moment he'd been waiting for—the first day he could begin regularly receiving points.
"Got it, Darius. I'm on my way," Zastan said hurriedly, already making his way toward the door. He grabbed his coat and headed out of the hotel room.
Darius had apparently thought ahead, as three sleek cars were already lined up outside the hotel, ready for Zastan. He didn't waste any time and jumped into the first car, giving a quick nod to the driver.
"Get me to the warehouse." he said, As they set off, he called Darius again. "I'm on my way. Have everything ready."
The drive was short, and soon Zastan was at the warehouse, the large industrial doors opening to reveal rows of neatly stacked metal rods in the storage area. He quickly estimated there were between 300 and 400 pieces, ready for conversion.
"Not bad," Zastan murmured, impressed by the sheer volume of rods. "We're off to a good start."
Darius approached, looking slightly apologetic. "We had to stop production for now," he explained. "We're running low on raw resources. But based on our current capabilities, we can produce up to 10,000 rods a day once we're fully stocked. The efficiency should improve as we go along."
Zastan nodded, listening intently. "And this… all because of what happened with me today?"
Darius nodded. "Exactly. Given what you went through, I thought it best not to bother you until the first batch was complete."
Zastan appreciated the thoughtfulness. He waved his hand and, with a swift motion, withdrew a pile of large metal bricks and several bars of gold from his inventory, laying them neatly on the ground in front of Darius. "This should be enough to resume production. And make sure you sell these gold bars. I want the cash from them."
Darius inspected the metal and gold, nodding in approval. "Understood, Young Master. We'll get right on it."
Zastan hesitated for a moment, then turned back to Darius. "Actually, is there a way for me to sell these materials directly for points instead of going through the cash process?"
Darius thought for a moment before shaking his head. "Unfortunately, no, Young master. The system has a restriction that you'd need to unlock that function by spending 10,000 points, and it would be exclusive to the only person you have spent it on."
Zastan groaned, frustration clear on his face. "The system just keeps finding new ways to squeeze points out of me. I'll pass on that for now," he said, shaking his head. "For now, my focus is on the milk tea business. That's going to be my first real source of cash flow, besides the gold."
He looked around the warehouse, feeling a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. "Alright, Darius, let's get these rods converted. We've got work to do."
With the gold and metal bricks set aside for sale, Zastan returned his attention to the stacked rods. Each piece represented not just raw material, but a tangible step forward in his journey to build his empire. As he began the process of converting the rods into points, he couldn't help but feel a surge of optimism.
...
He picked up his phone and dialed the number of his other manager. It took only a few rings before the manager answered.
"Good morning, Young Master," the manager greeted respectfully.
"Morning," Zastan replied, his tone brisk. "Have you started on the ingredients for the milk tea?"
The manager was quick to respond. "Yes, Young Master. With the help of 50 Biochemicals, we've been working round-the-clock since yesterday. They've been practicing, cooking, and refining the ingredients. I'd estimate we're about 80% finished with the first batch."
Zastan nodded to himself, pleased with the progress but wanting to ensure the quality. "Good. Send me the latest finished product—I want to taste it and see if there are any flaws."
"Right away, Young Master," the manager confirmed before hanging up.
While waiting for the sample, Zastan took a leisurely stroll around the warehouse. The factory was a hive of activity; machines whirred and clanked, operated by workers clad in protective suits, efficiently transferring materials from one machine to the next. At the far end, a massive piece of equipment continuously churned out long, glowing rods, slicing them precisely at the desired length. The heat was intense, causing sweat to bead on his forehead and dampen his collar.
Seeking respite from the oppressive warmth, Zastan retreated to an air-conditioned room. He sat back, enjoying the cool air as it soothed his flushed skin. A few minutes later, there was a knock on the door.
"Come in," Zastan called out.
The door opened, revealing the manager, who entered cautiously, holding a cold, insulated water bottle in his hand.
"Is that the milk tea?" Zastan asked, eyeing the bottle with curiosity.
"Yes, Young Master," the manager confirmed, offering the bottle.
Zastan unscrewed the cap and immediately caught a whiff of the drink. The scent was enticingly fresh, carrying an aroma that made his mouth water and his throat dry. It was as though the fragrance itself was crafted to stir thirst.
He smirked, noting, "The smell is spot on, and it's already got that effect that makes you thirsty. It's like the system's vision for the perfect milk tea is starting to come through."
Lifting the bottle to his lips, Zastan took a tentative sip. The moment the cool liquid hit his tongue, it was as if he had been transported to a refreshing oasis. The flavors danced in his mouth, vibrant and well-balanced. It was sweet, but not overly so; rich, but light enough to drink in large gulps. The aftertaste lingered, leaving him with a sense of satisfaction that only made him crave more.
"Damn," Zastan murmured, eyes wide with pleasant surprise as he continued to drink. Each gulp was a burst of cool refreshment, washing away the heat and fatigue of the warehouse. Before he realized it, the bottle was empty, leaving him slightly dazed and wanting more. He blinked at the empty container, then looked at the manager with a raised eyebrow.
"Next time, bring two bottles," Zastan said, half-jokingly.
The manager scratched the back of his head, looking sheepish. "My apologies, Young Master. I didn't expect you to be this thirsty."
Zastan laughed, waving off the manager's concern. "Relax, I'm just joking. But seriously, that was incredible. We're onto something big here."
He pulled out a small notebook from his pocket and tossed it onto the table. "Take a look at this," Zastan said, gesturing towards the book. "It's my plan for the milk tea business. I want to develop this into something serious."
The manager picked up the notebook, his expression shifting to one of focus as he flipped through the pages. Zastan watched as the manager's eyes scanned each line, absorbing the detailed strategies and market approaches Zastan had meticulously laid out.
"Take your time with it," Zastan said calmly. "This isn't just about the product. We're talking brand development, supply chain management, distribution—you name it."
The manager nodded, his eyes glued to the pages. Zastan could see the gears turning in his mind as he considered every aspect of the plan. Occasionally, the manager would pause, muttering under his breath as he jotted down notes or circled key points.
After more than ten minutes of silent reading, the manager finally looked up, a contemplative expression on his face.
"What do you think?" Zastan asked, leaning forward slightly. "Anything stand out? Flaws?"
The manager hesitated, his brow furrowing. "It's a solid plan, Young Master, but there are a few areas that could use tweaking. Some steps might be unnecessary and could slow us down. For instance, the distribution chain, you've outlined multiple layers, but we could streamline that significantly. And for marketing, we should capitalize on the unique nature of the product to create buzz early on."
Zastan nodded thoughtfully, appreciating the manager's insights. "I trust your judgment. Feel free to make those adjustments. And remember, if we need extra funds or resources, just reach out to Darius. I want this to be flawless from the get-go."
The manager nodded confidently. "Understood, Young Master. I'll refine the plan and keep you updated on our progress."
...