Chapter 25: Conquering the Crown — The Aurora Luxe Takeover

The soft hum of the private jet was the only sound as Zhao Feng gazed out at the clouds. Skyward One, his custom-built aircraft, was a flying symbol of wealth and power. But Zhao Feng's mind was already on the ground — in the heart of Europe, where his next move awaited.

Aurora Luxe, one of the world's oldest and most prestigious jewelry houses, had become his next target. Known for crafting masterpieces worn by royalty and billionaires alike, its name carried weight. Yet behind the sparkling facade, the brand was crumbling.

"Boss," Xiao Ling's voice broke through his thoughts. She sat across from him, meticulously scanning through reports on her tablet. "Aurora Luxe has been losing market share for three consecutive years. Internal mismanagement, scandals involving counterfeit gems, and a failed attempt to appeal to younger audiences. The shareholders are desperate for a solution."

Zhao Feng's lips curled into a faint smile. "Desperation creates opportunity. They need a savior. We'll give them one."

The private jet touched down at Geneva International Airport. Stepping into a convoy of sleek black SUVs, Zhao Feng headed straight for the heart of Swiss luxury — the Aurora Luxe Headquarters.

The building itself was a statement. Its architecture, a blend of glass and stone, resembled a giant diamond set upon a velvet landscape. Inside, antique chandeliers sparkled, and glass cases displayed some of the world's rarest gemstones.

But Zhao Feng saw past the grandeur. The air was thick with tension. Employees moved quickly, their eyes avoiding contact. The boardroom awaited.

The oval table was lined with anxious shareholders, their expressions wary. At the head sat Bernard Rousseau, the acting CEO — a man once revered in the jewelry world but now regarded as a symbol of the company's decline. His silver hair was neatly combed, but the lines on his face betrayed his stress.

"Mr. Zhao," Bernard greeted with forced politeness. "We understand you're interested in acquiring Aurora Luxe. But we are a legacy. We cannot simply be bought."

Zhao Feng's voice remained calm. "A legacy is only as valuable as its future. And yours is running out."

Xiao Ling tapped the tablet, bringing up detailed reports onto the sleek conference screen. Sales graphs plummeted. Negative press clippings flashed. Every scandal and failure laid bare.

"I'm not here to diminish Aurora Luxe's name," Zhao Feng continued. "I'm here to restore it. Under Feng International, your legacy won't fade. It will shine brighter than ever."

"But at what cost?" Bernard's voice faltered.

Zhao Feng leaned forward, his eyes sharp. "The cost of doing nothing is far greater. Your competitors are thriving. Your customers are losing trust. But with my resources and vision, Aurora Luxe will become untouchable."

Silence filled the room. The shareholders exchanged glances, the weight of Zhao Feng's words sinking in.

Then Bernard spoke, his voice barely above a whisper. "And what is your vision, Mr. Zhao?"

Zhao Feng's words carried the strength of certainty.

"First, we create scarcity. Limited collections, no more mass production. Every piece will be a story — hand-crafted, certified, and exclusive to the elite."

"Second, technology. Augmented reality experiences for virtual jewelry trials. Custom AI-designed pieces tailored to a client's personal taste."

"And third," Zhao Feng's eyes gleamed, "we bring back the allure. Private events in Monaco. Celebrity endorsements. The Eclipse Collection — nine legendary pieces made from the rarest black diamonds. Only for those who can afford to wear history."

The room buzzed. Even Bernard couldn't hide his admiration. Zhao Feng wasn't simply proposing a revival — he was promising a revolution.

Later that evening, Zhao Feng stood on the terrace of his presidential suite, the glittering city of Geneva stretching before him. Xiao Ling approached, her phone in hand.

"Boss," she said, a rare smile on her face. "The Aurora Luxe board has voted. The acquisition has been approved. You now own 82% of the company."

Ding!

[Aurora Luxe Acquired.]

[Jewelry Market Influence +700]

[Simp Coins +100 Million]

Zhao Feng's expression remained calm, though satisfaction flickered in his eyes. The jewelry crown was his. But this was just the beginning.

"Good," he said, the breeze rustling through the curtains. "Prepare the next phase. I want the Eclipse Collection announced within the month."

"As you wish, Boss."

Zhao Feng gazed out at the city. Wealth wasn't merely about possession — it was about control. And now, he controlled not just technology, but the very symbols of power that the world coveted.

Next, he would turn his eyes to an even grander stage.