Chapter 14: Rising Star in the Business World
The next morning, the sun blazed through the towering glass windows of Cheng Tower, casting a golden glow over the bustling financial district. Yet amid the frantic pulse of stock markets and business deals, one name was rapidly gaining traction — Zhao Feng.
The news of his partnership with the Cheng Consortium had spread like wildfire. Articles poured in, calling him the "Dark Horse of Qinghe" and "The Man Who Toppled Luo Shao." Investors speculated, socialites gossiped, and the business world watched in anticipation.
But Zhao Feng?
He remained unfazed.
Ding!
[System Update: Reputation Surges!]
[Business Influence: +150]
[Public Perception: Rising Star Status Achieved]
Seated in a luxury penthouse suite, Zhao Feng gazed out at the panoramic view of the city. His phone buzzed non-stop with congratulatory messages, invitations to exclusive events, and proposals from business elites.
Yet, as the system flashed once again, Zhao Feng's focus sharpened.
[New Mission: Establish Your Presence in the Business World.]
[Objective: Make a Successful Investment or Business Decision Within the Next 72 Hours.]
[Reward: +30 Million Simp Coins, Business Influence +400]
"Time to get to work," Zhao Feng murmured.
Later that day, Zhao Feng stepped into the gleaming lobby of the **Cheng Consortium**. Employees whispered as he passed, their eyes wide with curiosity and admiration.
"That's him. The one who beat Luo Shao."
"I heard Chairman Cheng personally sealed a deal with him!"
Even those who had once dismissed Zhao Feng as a lowly student now looked at him with newfound respect.
"Mr. Zhao Feng," Cheng Xin greeted, her voice polished as ever. "The chairman is expecting you in the executive lounge."
Zhao Feng nodded, his tailored suit exuding understated dominance. He was no longer the desperate underdog — he was a rising titan.
---
The Meeting Begins
Inside the lavish lounge, Cheng Tianlong awaited, seated at a conference table alongside several high-ranking executives. Crystal decanters and polished silver trays lined the table, a silent display of wealth.
"Zhao Feng," the chairman greeted, his piercing eyes glinting with approval. "Welcome. Let's discuss your first move."
A massive digital screen flickered to life, displaying a series of potential investment opportunities. Tech startups, luxury real estate, and even media conglomerates — the Cheng Consortium had access to it all.
"Each of these ventures holds promise," Cheng Tianlong explained. "But success lies in the choice you make. Show me what you're capable of."
Zhao Feng's gaze flickered over the options. His system's analysis kicked in, streams of data and projections flowing through his mind.
Ding!
[Analysis Complete: Optimal Investment Detected.]
A particular company stood out — **Skyward Technologies**, a mid-sized tech firm on the brink of launching revolutionary AI software. While most investors overlooked it, the system revealed its true potential.
"I choose Skyward Technologies," Zhao Feng declared.
The room fell silent. One executive coughed awkwardly.
"Skyward?" Cheng Xin frowned. "They're a risk. Their software development has faced delays, and their CEO is under scrutiny."
"But their AI technology is years ahead of their competitors," Zhao Feng countered. "Once their product hits the market, their valuation will skyrocket. I'm willing to put my stake on it."
Cheng Tianlong's expression remained unreadable. Then, slowly, a grin spread across his face.
"Very well," the chairman said. "We'll acquire a controlling share of Skyward Technologies. But remember, Zhao Feng — success will be yours, but so will failure."
"I wouldn't have it any other way," Zhao Feng replied.
Ding!
[Investment Confirmed: Skyward Technologies Acquired.]
[Next Objective: Oversee the Launch and Drive Company Growth.]
Zhao Feng rose to his feet, the weight of expectation settling on his shoulders. But there was no fear — only resolve.
"Watch closely," he said, his voice low and confident. "Because this is just the beginning."
"Next."