Turning the Tables

The rain poured heavily outside, creating a rhythmic melody against the windows of Jiang Han's modest office at the logistics hub. The faint hum of trucks moving in and out blended with the storm, creating a fitting backdrop for the task at hand.

System Notification:

Mission: Persuade Syed Azlan Shah to offer financial backing to the family business.

Objective: Secure a minimum RM500,000 investment for the warehouse expansion.

Reward: Financial Acumen Skill (Advanced).

Bonus Hidden Reward: ???

Failure Consequence: Loss of trust in business circles, leading to diminished opportunities.

Jiang Han read the system's message carefully. The stakes were high, and Syed Azlan Shah was not known for his generosity. A prominent figure in Malayuna's elite circles, Syed Azlan had the reputation of being an opportunist who rarely extended help without securing significant gains. This negotiation would require more than charm—it would need precision, ingenuity, and a little audacity.

Jiang Han leaned back in his chair, his mind working like a well-oiled machine. As the rain continued to beat against the glass, he formulated his strategy. He had to appeal to Syed Azlan's love for control while subtly highlighting the opportunity Jiang's logistics business offered.

"Jiang Yu," he called out, his voice carrying the authority of someone who had been in far more critical boardroom discussions in his past life.

Jiang Yu entered the room with a look of curiosity. "What's up, Ge?"

"Help me compile the numbers on the pending expansion proposal. I'll need data on our projected growth and cost efficiency with the new warehouse. It has to look airtight."

Jiang Yu nodded. "On it, Ge."

As Jiang Yu got to work, Jiang Han opened his laptop. He researched Syed Azlan Shah's recent ventures. Several were heavily focused on logistics and technology. His angles began to crystallise: he needed to frame the investment not as charity but as an opportunity to expand Syed Azlan's empire.

The next day, Jiang Han stood outside the towering glass skyscraper that housed Syed Azlan Shah's corporate headquarters. Adjusting his tie, he glanced at the system notification again for a boost of confidence.

Inside the plush conference room, Syed Azlan sat at the head of a polished oak table, flanked by two associates. His sharp eyes appraised Jiang Han as if weighing him against an invisible scale.

"You're younger than I expected," Syed Azlan remarked, his tone neutral but probing.

Jiang Han smiled. "Age doesn't define capability, Dato'. Results do."

The room fell silent for a moment as Syed Azlan's lips twitched into what could almost be a smirk. "Proceed."

Jiang Han laid out his proposal with an air of calm confidence. He detailed how the new warehouse would streamline logistics operations in Petraling Jaya, reducing delivery times by 30%. Using the data Jiang Yu had compiled, he demonstrated a projected ROI within eighteen months.

"What's in it for me?" Syed Azlan interrupted, leaning back in his chair.

"Equity," Jiang Han replied smoothly. "A 20% stake in the expansion project, giving you both financial returns and strategic influence in the logistics sector."

Syed Azlan's interest was piqued, but he didn't show it openly. "And what if you fail? Logistics isn't a forgiving business."

Jiang Han's eyes met his, unwavering. "With respect, Dato', failure isn't in my vocabulary. However, as a safeguard, I propose a clause allowing you to reclaim your investment through other business assets my family owns."

The room grew still. Jiang's boldness was unexpected, and it caught Syed Azlan off guard. His associates whispered among themselves, clearly intrigued.

"I'll admit," Syed Azlan finally said, "you make a compelling case. But tell me, why should I trust a student?"

Jiang Han had anticipated this. He stood, placing both hands on the table and leaning forward slightly.

"Because this student turned a struggling logistics business into a thriving operation in less than a year," he said firmly. "Because I've taken on challenges that seasoned businessmen would hesitate to face, and I've come out stronger every time."

He let the words sink in before adding, "Dato', you didn't get to where you are by doubting calculated risks. Let me be your next success story."

Syed Azlan stared at Jiang for a long moment before bursting into laughter. "You've got nerve, I'll give you that."

He extended his hand. "I'll give you RM500,000. But remember, Jiang Han, this is not a gift—it's a test. Impress me, and there's more where that came from. Fail, and I'll make sure everyone knows."

Jiang Han shook his hand firmly. "Thank you, Dato'. I won't disappoint."

As Jiang left the building, he couldn't help but grin.

System Notification:

Mission Completed!

Reward Unlocked: Financial Acumen Skill (Advanced).

Bonus Hidden Reward: Network Insight Ability – Level 1.

The skills flooded his mind, giving him a sharper understanding of financial strategies and interpersonal dynamics. He couldn't wait to put them to use.

But the war wasn't over. With Syed Azlan on his side, Jiang's enemies would undoubtedly take notice. He braced himself for the battles ahead, determined to emerge victorious no matter the odds.

Jiang Han returned to the logistics hub that afternoon with a sense of accomplishment. The deal with Syed Azlan Shah marked a monumental step forward, but there was no time to celebrate. Every success brought new challenges, and he knew his competitors would respond swiftly to his growing influence.

"Ge, how did it go?" Jiang Yu asked as soon as Jiang Han entered the office.

"Better than expected," Jiang replied, tossing his coat over a chair. "We've secured the RM500,000 investment, but it's conditional. We need to show progress within the next six months."

Jiang Yu exhaled a sigh of relief. "That's incredible. But... six months isn't much time."

"That's why we can't waste a single day," Jiang said, his tone firm. "Where are we on the plans for the warehouse expansion?"

"Blueprints are finalised, and we've started getting quotes from contractors. But, Ge, there's something else," Jiang Yu said, hesitating. "I heard from one of our clients that Hafiy Zafran's family is trying to undercut us by offering massive discounts."

Jiang's expression darkened. Hafiy Zafran, the son of the influential Dato' Seri Zainuddin Adnan, had been a thorn in his side since the logistics hub began gaining traction. If Hafiy's family was attempting to poach their clients, it wasn't just a business move—it was a declaration of war.

"Prepare a list of our top clients," Jiang ordered. "We're going to reinforce our relationships with them before Hafiy can sway them."

That evening, Jiang Han worked late into the night. Using his newly unlocked Financial Acumen Skill (Advanced), he drafted personalised offers for their most valued clients, focusing on the unique benefits their logistics hub could provide. He emphasised reliability, efficiency, and the personal touch that larger competitors lacked.

The next day, Jiang and Jiang Yu visited each client in person. At first, Jiang found himself met with scepticism. Hafiy's family was known for their deep pockets, and their promises of steep discounts were hard to ignore. But Jiang's approach wasn't about matching the discounts—it was about demonstrating value.

In one meeting with a mid-sized electronics distributor, Jiang listened intently as the client explained their concerns about rising costs. Once they finished, Jiang leaned forward, his voice steady.

"I understand the appeal of lower prices," Jiang said. "But let me ask you this—what happens if those discounts come at the cost of delayed shipments or damaged goods? You've worked hard to build trust with your customers. Would you risk it over a few ringgit?"

The distributor hesitated. Jiang could see the gears turning in their mind. Before they could respond, he added, "I'll personally ensure your shipments are prioritised, and I'll provide you with real-time tracking at no additional cost. Let us help you grow your business without compromising your reputation."

By the time Jiang and Jiang Yu left the distributor's office, they had not only retained the client but also secured an agreement for increased shipments.

As Jiang returned to the hub later that evening, he received an unexpected message from Hafiy Zafran. It was brief but provocative: "Enjoy your small victories while they last. The real game starts now."

Jiang smirked. Hafiy's attempt to intimidate him only strengthened his resolve. The next day, he decided to confront Hafiy directly at a high-profile business networking event in Petraling Jaya.

Dressed sharply in a tailored suit, Jiang entered the event with an air of confidence that belied his age. The room was filled with Malayuna's elite, including Hafiy and his father, Dato' Seri Zainuddin Adnan.

Hafiy noticed Jiang almost immediately and approached him with a smug expression. "Jiang Han," he said, his tone dripping with condescension. "I hear you've been busy trying to salvage your little logistics operation."

Jiang smiled politely. "It's not about salvaging, Hafiy. It's about growth. Something you'd understand if you focused less on undercutting competitors and more on innovation."

Hafiy's smile faltered, but he quickly recovered. "Innovation? Don't kid yourself. Your family's business is a blip compared to ours. You can't compete with our resources."

"You're right," Jiang admitted, surprising Hafiy. "I can't match your resources. But I don't need to. While you're throwing money around recklessly, I'm building something sustainable. Let's see which strategy wins in the end."

Hafiy's laughter echoed across the room, drawing the attention of nearby attendees. Sensing an opportunity, Jiang decided to escalate the confrontation into a public spectacle.

"I'll tell you what, Hafiy," Jiang said loudly enough for others to hear. "Let's make this interesting. I challenge you to a logistics performance test. We'll each handle a high-priority shipment for the same client. The client will evaluate us on speed, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. The winner takes the bragging rights."

The crowd murmured with interest. Hafiy caught off guard, hesitated for a moment before regaining his composure. "You're on," he said, extending his hand.

Jiang shook it firmly, his eyes gleaming with determination. "May the best team win."

Back at the hub, Jiang gathered his team. He explained the challenge and emphasised the importance of flawless execution. "This isn't just about beating Hafiy," he said. "It's about proving to ourselves and our clients that we're the best at what we do."

Using his system's newly acquired Network Insight Ability – Level 1, Jiang identified the client Hafiy was likely to target—a luxury goods retailer known for their exacting standards. He reached out to the retailer personally and convinced them to allow both logistics companies to compete for their next major shipment.

With the shipment scheduled for the following week, Jiang and his team worked tirelessly to prepare. They implemented advanced tracking systems, double-checked inventory, and trained their drivers on optimal delivery routes.

Meanwhile, Jiang used his Financial Acumen Skill (Advanced) to negotiate favourable terms with their suppliers, ensuring they had the necessary resources to execute the shipment without a hitch.

On the day of the shipment, the atmosphere at the logistics hub was electric. Jiang stood at the centre of the operations floor, directing his team with precision. Every detail, from loading the trucks to communicating with the client, was managed seamlessly.

As the shipment progressed, Jiang monitored the system notifications for real-time updates. When the final delivery was confirmed, he received the message he had been waiting for:

System Notification:

Shipment Delivered Successfully.

Client Evaluation: Outstanding.

The results were undeniable. Jiang's team outperformed Hafiy's in every category, securing the client's loyalty and earning the respect of the business community.

At the next networking event, Hafiy avoided Jiang's gaze, his confidence visibly shaken. Jiang, on the other hand, was approached by several potential clients who had heard about his victory.

System Notification:

Mission Bonus Unlocked: Negotiation Skill (Advanced).

As Jiang reviewed the system's latest rewards, he couldn't help but feel a surge of pride. He was no longer just the underdog—he was a force to be reckoned with.