Inheritance of Two Trillion Chapter 2444 - 1818: Lobbying the Two Titans
Previously on Inheritance of Two Trillion...
Bai Xiaosheng, in the company of Hou Yuncheng and other business magnates, embarked on a visit to Bichi City. It was during this excursion that a grand vision took root in his mind, prompting him to immediately lay the groundwork by accepting the dormant construction projects within Bichi City. In return, he secured remarkably favorable policies from the city's administration.
This decisive action served as irrefutable proof of Bai Xiaosheng's sharp business acumen, his uncanny foresight, and his sheer audacity.
Bai Xiaosheng's ambition was to elevate a city, possessed of advantages in every facet yet lacking in any singular prominence, into the pivotal "commercial hub" of the entire region, thereby unifying disparate commercial zones into a cohesive whole.
The concept was not merely audacious; it bordered on the realm of "fantasy.".
This undertaking transcended the mere management of a business or the conquest of an industry; it was about fundamentally altering the commercial "geography.".
Naturally, should this venture prove successful, Bai Xiaosheng, as its architect, would stand to gain unimaginable riches and unprecedented opportunities.
Bai Xiaosheng was acutely aware that, even for himself, operating in this unfamiliar territory without a established support system, achieving such a monumental goal would be exceedingly arduous.
Consequently, Bai Xiaosheng never entertained the notion of undertaking this endeavor single-handedly.
If every task required solitary effort, what would be the purpose of forming an alliance?
Bai Xiaosheng firmly believed that since he had meticulously established the Global Business Alliance, its collective strength must be leveraged to its fullest extent, propelling the endeavor forward through unified might.
To put it more dramatically, if the collective power were sufficiently immense, even moving mountains and reclaiming the seas might become achievable!
For a period of two days, Bai Xiaosheng secluded himself, initially dedicating his time to thorough personal research. Subsequently, he selected a day when Lu Yun and Jia Chengshan were available and extended an invitation to them.
With an assortment of snacks laid out on the coffee table, Bai Xiaosheng convened with Lu Yun and Jia Chengshan for a crucial discussion.
Although ostensibly a casual conversation, the true purpose was for Bai Xiaosheng to lay bare his ambitious ideas.
"Sheng, I heard yesterday in Bichi City, you took on all the remaining reconstruction projects? Is that true? Those projects aren’t good deals; when necessary, let them go quickly, so you don’t get stuck!"
Lu Yun possessed a reasonable familiarity with the conditions in Bichi City. He also commanded several infrastructure companies but harbored no inclination to involve himself in the Bichi City situation.
"With international accolades coming along, it’s most likely true. Not only the reconstruction, but our Mr. Bai also donated schools and roads!" Jia Chengshan chimed in.
Bai Xiaosheng responded to their comments with a gentle smile.
Given that no other individuals were present in the room, Bai Xiaosheng saw no need for circumlocution.
When engaging with individuals of such sharp intellect, any hint of indirectness would be perceived as insincere, potentially jeopardizing future collaborations built on trust.
"I invited you two over because I want to talk about my trip to Bichi and share some small views about Bichi City’s commercial future and prospects!" Bai Xiaosheng initiated the exchange.
Lu Yun and Jia Chengshan both leaned back in unison, adopting attentive postures to absorb what was to come.
Considering their respective ages, both could be regarded as seasoned veterans of the business world when juxtaposed with Bai Xiaosheng.
Bai Xiaosheng sought their counsel, anticipating that they would undoubtedly offer invaluable advice as the discussion unfolded.
As Bai Xiaosheng elaborated on his vision, the initial relaxed demeanor of Lu Yun and Jia Chengshan gradually gave way to focused attention, culminating in profound astonishment.
To be quite frank, Bai Xiaosheng's proposition was staggeringly bold, capable of eliciting shock even from these two titans of industry.
From his exposition, it seemed he intended to fundamentally alter the commercial fabric of an entire region encompassing multiple cities?!
"We are going from one company to another for business, Mr. Bai, are you trying to reshuffle the entire region, multiple cities, and several industries?" Jia Chengshan questioned, his gaze fixed on Bai Xiaosheng, a look of disbelief coloring his expression.
From where did this young man draw such immense courage to entertain such grandiose aspirations!
Previously, Jia Chengshan had merely categorized Bai Xiaosheng as a "business wizard" – a prodigious talent within the commercial realm. However, it now appeared that this assessment was woefully inadequate; Bai Xiaosheng was no longer content with merely creating ripples in the vast ocean of commerce but aimed to command the very skies, influencing the weather itself.
Jia Chengshan found himself compelled to cast a glance towards Lu Yun.
Lu Yun, equally taken aback, looked directly at Bai Xiaosheng and inquired, "Sheng, do you truly intend to pursue what you've outlined? Isn’t this... a bit excessive?"
Jia Chengshan nodded in firm agreement with Lu Yun's sentiment.
"I'm here just to hear what you two think," Bai Xiaosheng replied with a serene smile.
"Let Mr. Lu speak first; I require a moment to fully process this," Jia Chengshan stated.
He was not devoid of opinions, but owing to his particular relationship with Bai Xiaosheng and past complexities, he felt the need for careful deliberation before articulating any significant viewpoints.
In contrast, Lu Yun carried fewer reservations. He could be considered Bai Xiaosheng's benefactor, elder, confidant, and mentor – an individual whom Bai Xiaosheng consistently held in high regard.
There were numerous matters Lu Yun could address with considerable candor and without undue hesitation.
Lu Yun stated, "Sheng, I understand your ambition to consolidate the commerce of the entire region, encompassing multiple cities, into a more robust commercial entity for substantial profit. It's a grand and audacious vision! However, have you truly considered its feasibility? The commercial cities you wish to integrate may very well resist such a proposal for unified commercial development. If it falters, all efforts would be in vain. Should it succeed, they would be relegated to a subordinate role, with Bichi City as the epicenter. Initially, Bichi City's commercial standing was often underestimated; now, they are expected to defer to its leadership. Can such a dynamic truly be accepted? Even the common folk recognize the value of leading a smaller group over being a mere follower in a larger one, let alone the managers of these established commercial centers. My prediction is that these cities will not readily cooperate but will instead resist, perhaps erecting subtle obstacles or, in the most extreme scenario, engaging in clandestine interference. Have you thoroughly contemplated these ramifications?!"
Jia Chengshan had intended to voice similar reservations, but with Lu Yun having already articulated them, he simply offered a nod of agreement.
The concept itself was commendable!
Internally, both men felt a stir of admiration.
Yet, its execution presented immense difficulty!
"Lu, there's a fundamental misunderstanding in your assessment. I have no intention of negotiating commercial integration with the surrounding cities of Bichi," Bai Xiaosheng chuckled. "My sole aim is to foster the prosperity of various industries within Bichi City itself, thereby naturally drawing in businessmen from other locales. Viewed from a commercial standpoint, Bichi City will inevitably emerge as the central hub. Should any entity oppose or obstruct this progression, I believe their efforts will prove futile; businessmen will ultimately cast their votes with their feet, choosing where to align. Once a powerful trend takes hold, it becomes unstoppable!"
Bai Xiaosheng's strategy was not to impose this vision from the top down, but rather to cultivate it from the ground up!
Lu Yun and Jia Chengshan were profoundly taken aback.
The more successful business magnates they encountered, the more they perceived such large-scale endeavors as requiring top-down endorsement. Yet, in reality, it wasn't always necessary...
This entire proposition was rapidly becoming fascinating!
From the very outset, a shared eagerness began to ignite within both of them!
If the three of them were to collaborate and the venture failed, the losses would be relatively minor.
However, should it succeed, the rewards would be immeasurable...
Their hearts were already moved, long before Bai Xiaosheng needed to persuade them further...
"Mr. Bai, your aspiration is to see Bichi City flourish and ascend to become the preeminent commercial center of the region. But what if Bichi City itself lacks the desire or fails to offer its support?" Jia Chengshan inquired thoughtfully. "Surely you do not intend to rely solely on emotional appeals stemming from the reconstruction assistance you provided?"
Frankly, emotional appeals were not always effective.
Lu Yun shared this concern, his gaze settling on Bai Xiaosheng.
Bai Xiaosheng responded with a smile, producing several meticulously prepared documents and placing them before the two men.
"Lu, Mr. Jia, these are the supporting policies that Bichi City has extended to me in recognition of my substantial assistance. They are exceptionally unique, valid for fifty years, and explicitly designated as exclusive benefits!" Bai Xiaosheng declared with a grin. "Does this golden covenant not carry sufficient weight?"
Lu Yun reached for the documents, his surprise evident as he read them intently. "Are there truly so many preferential clauses contained within these papers?"
Jia Chengshan's eyes widened as he also began perusing the contents.
The more he read, the more promising the outlook appeared, stirring a warmth within his heart.
"Initially, these benefits were drafted by my team, but during the review and submission process, the other party made considerable amendments," Bai Xiaosheng explained with amusement. "The support offered was, in some aspects, double what I had proposed. While some provisions are minor, they are still valuable, while others have genuinely surprised and delighted me."
As Lu Yun and Jia Chengshan continued to examine the documents, a palpable determination began to ignite in their eyes.
"I am confident that if the three of us spearhead this initiative, its success will be overwhelmingly likely!" Bai Xiaosheng asserted.
With the involvement of Lu Yun and Jia Chengshan, a considerable number of allies within their network would undoubtedly lend their support upon hearing the news, and their associates in Africa would also be influenced.
The resultant snowball effect and interconnectedness would be more than sufficient to transform this vision into a tangible reality!
This was a realization Bai Xiaosheng had, and it was clear the other two had reached the same conclusion.
Rather than Bai Xiaosheng persuading them, it was as if they were persuading themselves throughout the entire discussion.
This time, Lu Yun offered no objection.
Jia Chengshan, similarly, had no reservations, engrossed in scrutinizing the document clauses, his expression flickering between keen interest and thoughtful reserve, clearly indicating his emotional engagement.
Bai Xiaosheng poured himself a cup of tea, sipping it leisurely. After finishing two cups, he turned to the two men with a smile. "There is no immediate need to finalize a decision on this matter. Uncle Lu, Mr. Jia, I encourage you to each take a copy of these documents to review and consider at your own pace."
As Bai Xiaosheng voiced his thoughts, both Lu Yun and Jia Chengshan snapped their gazes upward. "Very well, I shall return and consider it thoroughly!" Lu Yun declared. "I'll depart now; tea can be enjoyed at leisure another time, but this urgent matter requires immediate attention!" Jia Chengshan stated, rising to his feet. Noticing their resolve to depart, Bai Xiaosheng offered no resistance. A smile graced his lips as he stood and addressed them, "Indeed, let us reconnect soon!"