The private jet hummed as it sliced through the night sky over the South China Sea. Inside, the dimly lit cabin was a stark contrast to the turbulence outside. Huang Jin, known as The Phoenix, sat at the head of a sleek conference table, fingers steepled in thought. Across from him, Liang Ren, the newly anointed Shadow Banker, adjusted his tie, masking the tension in his posture.
"Expansion requires vision, Liang. We are no longer just lords of Southeast Asia. We must think globally."
"And you believe IKN’s economic projects will serve as our gateway?"
Huang Jin smirked, lifting a crystal glass of brandy.
"They will be our foundation. While politicians bicker, we build. While investors hesitate, we act. But we need resources."
A delegate from the international cartel leaned forward, his expression unreadable.
"You have our interest, Phoenix. But expansion requires capital. Risk. Assurance."
Huang Jin tapped his fingers against the glass, eyes gleaming.