Shuhang stepped into the manager's office, his senses heightened as he observed his surroundings. The room was grand, decorated with an air of wealth and power. Gold inlays adorned the walls, fine tapestries hung alongside shelves of rare artifacts, and the furniture seemed to glow with a polished sheen. Behind the imposing desk sat the manager, a short, elderly man with snow-white hair and a neatly trimmed beard. Despite his apparent age, his posture was firm, his presence commanding. He appeared to be in his forties, but Shuhang knew better. This man was likely centuries old, an expert beyond the foundation realm, residing in the realm of core formation.
The man gestured toward a chair. "Take a seat."
Shuhang complied, but the man didn't offer his name. The slight wasn't lost on Shuhang—it was a test, a silent declaration that he hadn't earned that level of respect yet. Keeping his composure, Shuhang introduced himself.
"Thank you for granting me this opportunity," he said, his tone steady, respectful.
The manager didn't respond immediately, instead scrutinizing Shuhang with a smile that didn't reach his eyes. While outwardly calm, the man had already scanned Shuhang with his spiritual sense, gleaning details about his cultivation, origins, and even the contraptions he had secretly built. His men had already investigated Shuhang thoroughly upon his entry into the Black Moon organization.
Finally, the man spoke. "Mr. Shuhang, I've given you this chance. Don't waste it. Relax and present your idea properly. You have ten minutes."
Shuhang's grip on the box he carried tightened slightly. The manager's kind expression reminded him of his old corporate bosses back on Earth—detached, goal-oriented, and devoid of genuine empathy. Still, sympathy wasn't what Shuhang sought. He had come prepared, knowing the value of his invention.
Opening the box, Shuhang carefully pulled out the models of the bicycles he had designed. Placing them on the desk, he began his presentation.
"This is a bicycle, a new mode of transportation designed for efficiency and convenience," Shuhang started, his voice steady. "Unlike animals, it doesn't require feeding, rest, or maintenance beyond basic repairs. It's faster than walking due to its mechanical design, and when used by cultivators with enhanced physical strength, it can outperform many beasts of burden."
The manager leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable as Shuhang continued.
"This product targets the common citizen. Affordable, easy to use, and practical—it's something that could revolutionize transportation across cities and rural areas alike. With such a large market potential, it can generate significant profits through sheer volume."
Shuhang finished, meeting the manager's gaze. For a moment, the room was silent. Then, the manager spoke.
"I see. It's simple to replicate, so I understand why you brought it here. How much are you asking for?"
"Fifty percent of the sales," Shuhang replied without hesitation.
The manager raised an eyebrow, his smile widening faintly. "That is unwise, young man."
Shuhang didn't flinch. "I believe I have more to offer than just this bicycle. I'm proposing a partnership—a contract where I continue to provide innovative ideas. In return, I want fifty percent of the sales for all future products as well."
The manager chuckled softly, shaking his head. "That's a bold proposition. But fifty percent is excessive. What guarantees do I have that you'll deliver on these so-called future innovations?"
Shuhang met his gaze. "Give me a year. I'll prove myself by creating something even better."
"Ten percent," the manager countered smoothly. "You'll have a year to demonstrate your worth. If you succeed, we can renegotiate. Remember, we'll handle production, branding, and distribution. All you have is the idea—something you can't sell independently."
Shuhang's expression remained calm, though he knew the man wouldn't budge. Ten percent was the offer he had expected from the beginning, but negotiating for more had been a calculated move to give the illusion of compromise.
"Agreed," he said finally.
The manager nodded approvingly and tapped a communication rune on his desk, summoning his secretary to draft the contract. Turning back to Shuhang, he offered a genuine smile for the first time.
"My name is Zang Linghe," he said. "Your talent is clear, and I believe you have potential. I'd like to invite you to join our organization as a researcher. Whether you specialize in domestic products or weapons, we have the resources and experts to help you grow. With our support, reaching the core formation realm won't be out of your grasp. Who knows—you might even become one of the most renowned innovators of this era."
Shuhang's interest was piqued. The opportunity to work alongside seasoned experts and access rare resources was tempting, but he knew he had to tread carefully. The Black Moon organization wasn't a place for the faint-hearted.
Shuhang could see through Zhang Linghe's words. The offer, while enticing on the surface, was still steeped in corporate tactics. There was no guarantee that he'd receive meaningful mentorship, and the hierarchical structure of such organizations often buried newcomers in menial tasks. Shuhang was well aware that without significant accomplishments, he might end up as a cog in the machine, forgotten amidst corporate politics.
However, before dismissing the idea outright, Shuhang decided to probe further. "What exactly would I gain from joining? I need a clear picture of what's on the table."
Zhang Linghe's smile widened slightly, a glimmer of approval in his eyes. It was clear the young man wasn't naive.
"Like every reputable organization, we don't hand out benefits for free," Zhang began, leaning back in his chair. "You would be placed in the Department of Innovation, where your skills could flourish. Your starting salary would be one thousand gold coins per month."
Shuhang's brows rose slightly at the mention of such a generous amount.
"In addition, you'll be given a test to determine the level of cultivation techniques suitable for you. If you pass, you'll receive a core formation technique. If not, you'll still receive a high-quality foundation realm technique. Afterward, you'll work as an assistant under more experienced innovators, who will guide you in refining your skills."
Zhang continued, his tone measured. "You'll also have the option to undergo combat training outside of work hours. Prove your value to the organization, and you'll be promoted, granting you access to better resources, techniques, and positions of influence. But, as always, everything depends on your contributions and participation."
Shuhang listened carefully, weighing the details. "And the location?" he asked, already suspecting the answer.
"The department is headquartered in the capital city," Zhang replied smoothly. "You would need to relocate. However, you'll be permitted to return here every three months for a week, and longer if you secure approval for extended leave."
Shuhang's mind churned. The offer was lucrative, but the prospect of leaving his family wasn't something he could accept lightly. He valued his freedom and his ability to provide for his loved ones without becoming shackled to a distant city.
"I'll think about it," Shuhang said cautiously, keeping his tone neutral.
Zhang Linghe nodded, showing no signs of disappointment. It was clear Shuhang's acceptance wasn't critical to him. The Black Moon organization had no shortage of talent, and Shuhang, while promising, wasn't yet exceptional enough to warrant special treatment.
Once the secretary returned with the contract, Shuhang read it carefully. It outlined his ten percent share of the bicycle's sales and the clause for renegotiation after a year if he produced another invention of equal or greater value. The lack of specificity in the renegotiation terms was intentional, giving the organization flexibility during future discussions.
Satisfied for now, Shuhang signed the document. As he prepared to leave, Zhang Linghe produced a check and handed it to him.
"Even though the deal is just starting, it would reflect poorly on us to send you away empty-handed," Zhang said with a small smile. "Here's a check for ten thousand gold coins. Consider it an advance for your efforts."
Shuhang's eyes widened in surprise. Ten thousand gold coins was an astronomical amount for him. A single gold coin was worth one hundred silver coins, and one silver coin equaled one hundred copper coins. His family earned roughly one hundred gold coins a month—this check represented over eight years of their savings.
"Thank you," Shuhang said, bowing slightly out of respect. "I won't let you down. You can expect something grand from me soon."
Zhang Linghe inclined his head. "We'll hold you to that, Mr. Shuhang."
With those parting words, Shuhang left the office, the check safely tucked away. His mind raced as he headed home, eager to share the good news with his family. This was the break he had been waiting for—a chance to secure their future. Yet, deep down, he knew this was only the beginning of a much larger journey.