Inheritance of Two Trillion Chapter 2430 - 1811: Movements from All Sides (2)

While initially it seemed surprising, looking back, it was quite predictable.

Mr. Brown’s defiance of directives against his return was a gamble that could easily tarnish the reputations of those vice chairmen who supported him. Consequently, his own standing, along with his son’s, would be further weakened.

Moreover, his return grants him greater liberty to act.

A man of Mr. Brown’s intellect would surely not commit such a basic error.

It is anticipated that upon his arrival, Mr. Brown will undoubtedly exploit his extensive network within the group’s senior leadership to negotiate a resolution. At that point, some vice chairmen might even be swayed to shift their allegiance to his side.

The magnitude of these impending changes demands a more methodical approach than mere speculation; it is prudent to proceed cautiously, addressing each development as it arises.

Wen Yan also pointed out that the source of the negative public opinion campaign at headquarters remains unidentified. Nevertheless, the widespread discussions are already causing significant damage. Regardless of how this situation resolves, Cilio’s reputation is bound to suffer, making any future advancement within the group highly improbable.

Following his conversation with Wen Yan, Bai Xiaosheng fell into a period of quiet contemplation, occasionally glancing at his phone.

The entire afternoon was remarkably uneventful for Bai Xiaosheng, described by some as almost unnervingly tranquil.

This calm was attributable to the lack of any significant developments within the group, a absence of work-related tasks, and no updates from either Lin Weiwei or Lei Ying.

Bai Xiaosheng occupied his time with his phone, casual conversations with contacts, and a restorative afternoon nap, followed by some leisurely reading — a rare indulgence in quietude.

Despite Bai Xiaosheng’s peaceful afternoon, across the ocean, Caroline was engaged in crucial discussions with Vice Chairman Morgan concerning the future strategic direction of the group’s operations in the African region.

Bai Xiaosheng was credited with initiating the conflict in the African territory, skillfully drawing Mr. Brown and his son into the escalating crisis. Meanwhile, Caroline and Vice Chairman Morgan were not idle, actively and discreetly exacerbating the situation through their operatives.

Mr. Brown, the President of African operations, reportedly suffers from deteriorating health and harbors a desire for early retirement. Even if he were to weather the current storm, his endurance would be limited. Once his son Cilio’s alleged transgressions are substantiated, the group’s highest decision-making body would likely remove him from his post.

Mr. Brown’s departure from his position appears to be an inevitability.

Executive Vice President Cilio of the African region has become the central figure in this upheaval; his removal from senior leadership could trigger a power struggle within the group’s African division between the father and son.

At that juncture, the subsequent leadership, whether aligned with the faction referred to as "Eastward" or "Westward," would inevitably disrupt the longstanding equilibrium at the group’s headquarters.

Lu Cheng’an and Li Yunyuan are undoubtedly observing these events closely, likely preparing to assert their influence.

It is clear that Caroline and Vice Chairman Morgan have masterfully orchestrated this situation from its inception, subtly guiding its progression.

In private, their conversation flowed without restraint, a candid exchange between two individuals who considered themselves resolute partners—

"Rather than assisting old Mr. Brown and Vice President Cilio in navigating these challenges, which could be seen as a fortunate turn of events, I find that exacerbating the difficulties aligns better with our objectives and my personal inclination," Caroline stated.

Caroline remarked, swirling the glass in her hand and savoring a sip of Vice Chairman Morgan’s expensive wine, a smile gracing her lips.

Vice Chairman Morgan responded with an equally relaxed smile, adding a note of caution, "We must ensure our involvement remains undetected. All necessary actions should be carried out discreetly through your subordinates. Should Bai Xiaosheng’s team fail to grasp the full picture, subtly guide them further, patiently. It is imperative that we are not implicated! Mr. Brown, though cornered, still possesses considerable influence!"

"You have my assurance, all arrangements are in place," Caroline replied with a bright, confident smile, revealing perfectly aligned teeth.

Vice Chairman Morgan let out a self-deprecating chuckle, "It's quite ironic that in investigating the Brown father-son duo, we've found ourselves indirectly 'cooperating' with Bai Xiaosheng's team. A truly unforeseen turn of events, and certainly not something old Mr. Brown would have predicted. Alas, such is the way of natural selection."

Caroline nodded in agreement, her smile unwavering.

Moving forward, as Bai Xiaosheng’s team proceeds with their investigations, they will receive subtle, clandestine assistance and encouragement to accelerate their findings.

Even if old Mr. Brown manages to return to headquarters and attempts to broker a peaceful resolution, their strategy will involve feigning cooperation while secretly undermining any progress.

Ultimately, the removal of old Mr. Brown and Cilio is the primary objective.

Following this strategic discussion, Vice Chairman Morgan and Caroline continued their conversation pleasantly, envisioning a future for the group’s African operations devoid of old Mr. Brown and Cilio.

The two partners enjoyed their drinks, their conversation punctuated by shared laughter.

...

As evening descended, the Huaxia Business Group orchestrated a farewell banquet in Moribido City, marking the official departure of their entourage to the subsequent country and region.

The journey, being of short duration, was undertaken via a business coach. A convoy, orchestrated by Xisuli, provided an escort, ensuring an arrival at their next destination within four hours.

Seated within the vehicle, Bai Xiaosheng opted to close his eyes for rest, yet his thoughts remained intensely focused on the ongoing investigations into various enterprises affiliated with the group.

The inquiries ultimately converged on Cilio, an action that effectively signaled an open declaration of war against the elder Mr. Brown, the executive in charge of operations for the African region.

Irrespective of Bai Xiaosheng's intentions, certain individuals with malicious inclinations would undoubtedly twist this development to foster animosity towards him.

During a diurnal discussion with Wen Yan, Bai Xiaosheng had already been apprised of the significant stir within the headquarters. Numerous individuals were deliberately amplifying his perceived "bravery," commending his fearlessness in the face of power and his audacity in openly confronting Mr. Brown.

Conversely, a contingent was engaged in disseminating disparaging remarks, accusing Bai Xiaosheng of seeking personal renown and fabricating conflicts with the Brown father and son for the acquisition of further accolades. These rumors even meticulously detailed Bai Xiaosheng's prior undertakings in the South American and North American regions, painting him as an individual driven solely by fame and status, among other assertions.

Bai Xiaosheng remained utterly indifferent to these machinations.

He could, with a fair degree of certainty, deduce the identity of the puppeteer operating behind the scenes.

This scheme was designed not only to incite the elder Mr. Brown's animosity toward Bai Xiaosheng but also to spur him toward more aggressive investigative actions, all while preventing him from accumulating undue positive recognition.

Conceivably, those clandestinely spreading the rumors were experiencing considerable internal conflict.

Reflecting on this, Bai Xiaosheng emitted a quiet chuckle, his head tilting slightly.

The burden of excessive contemplation, he mused, invariably led to a sensation of mental dizziness and swelling. Therefore, after a period of deliberation, Bai Xiaosheng resolved to cease his thinking, leaning back against the seat to indulge in a much-needed nap.

...

Precisely as Bai Xiaosheng and his entourage commenced their journey, an aircraft touched down at Ganande International Airport.

Mr. Brown, who had been resting with his eyes closed in his seat, suddenly opened them, a spark of acuity illuminating his gaze.

Glancing towards the illuminated cityscape visible through the airplane's cabin window, the elder Mr. Brown couldn't help but utter softly to himself, "Back! This grand stage is a tapestry of light and shadow, where adversaries may not lurk in the darkness, and allies might not stand openly in the light! Cilio, this trial may not ultimately prove detrimental to you! Your ascension to Regional President at headquarters? A distant dream, indeed! A very distant dream!"

Upon disembarking and exiting the airport, Mr. Brown was met by a welcoming party comprising dozens of individuals.

Friends, colleagues, and subordinates from various departments – all wore expressions of concern, engaging in exchanges of pleasantries and warmth.

To each individual, old Mr. Brown offered a polite response accompanied by a smile. However, he perceived clearly within his mind – discerning genuine concern from calculated deception amongst these people was a dubious task.

It was entirely possible that those expressing solicitousness were, in reality, anticipating his swift downfall.

Once the initial greetings concluded, old Mr. Brown joined the assembled group, proceeding towards the designated venue for the banquet.

Seated within the automobile, old Mr. Brown’s demeanor was devoid of any smile as he addressed his secretary with a frigid tone, "I provided you with a list; were those individuals present at tonight's gathering?"

With his son currently under investigation, it was profoundly understandable that, as a father, he would find it impossible to maintain a cheerful disposition while attending a social function. Nevertheless, old Mr. Brown felt compelled to participate in such activities.

His objectives were twofold: firstly, to engage in networking, and secondly, to project an image to the outside world – that of an elder statesman who remained composed and unafraid of scrutiny!

The secretary of old Mr. Brown hastily presented a document, a roster bearing names, some of which were marked with pencil underlines.

"The guests without a checkmark indicated that they had prior engagements this evening and were unable to attend, extending their apologies to you," the secretary stated cautiously, seemingly apprehensive of a reprimand.

Old Mr. Brown silently perused the names on the list. Approximately one-third of the invitees were absent, yet the remaining portion still acknowledged his standing.

"These individuals truly prioritize their self-preservation. As for those who attended, who can say how many others, in truth, would not dare to offer me assistance!"

Old Mr. Brown let out a self-deprecating chuckle, "I am not in the least bit surprised!"