Chen Fan arrived at Nine Dragons Restaurant promptly at 2 PM. The restaurant exuded an air of refined elegance, from its ornate decor to the hushed murmurs of conversations. He was led to a private room overlooking a serene garden, where Tong Yan was already waiting.
Tong Yan was more striking in person than in the photos Chen Fan had seen. Dressed in a chic business suit, she carried an aura of intelligence and authority. Her eyes, sharp and discerning, immediately landed on him.
"Mr. Chen, please have a seat," she greeted, a pleasant smile on her face. "I've been looking forward to this meeting."
"Editor-in-Chief Tong," Chen Fan nodded, taking the seat opposite her. "The pleasure is mine."
As the waiter took their orders, Tong Yan didn't waste much time with small talk. "Let's be direct, Mr. Chen. Your analysis of Bank X's security vulnerability was truly impressive. No one in the industry saw it coming, let alone predicted its precise impact."
"It was merely a matter of observation and logical deduction," Chen Fan replied calmly, sipping his tea. He wasn't about to reveal his "future knowledge" or the System.
Tong Yan's smile widened. "Modesty suits you. But I believe there's more to it than just observation. Your insights are exceptionally sharp. My offer for you to become a regular contributor or consultant is genuine. Your articles would be invaluable to Urban Economic News."
"I appreciate the offer, Editor-in-Chief Tong," Chen Fan said. "However, I have other ventures that require my full attention at the moment."
Tong Yan raised an eyebrow, a hint of curiosity in her gaze. "Oh? May I ask what those ventures are? Perhaps we can find a way to collaborate."
Chen Fan decided to be forthright, revealing just enough to pique her interest without exposing too much. "I am in the process of establishing a company, Heavenly Dao Group. We will focus on digital asset management and AI software development. My goal is to build a financial empire, one that will redefine market trends."
Tong Yan's eyes widened almost imperceptibly. Digital asset management and AI software development were cutting-edge fields, and "redefine market trends" was a bold statement from someone so young. She looked at Chen Fan with newfound respect.
"Heavenly Dao Group," she repeated, a thoughtful expression on her face. "An ambitious name. And a grand vision. May I ask what makes you so confident in these highly competitive fields?"
Chen Fan met her gaze, his eyes calm but resolute. "My confidence comes from my ability to see what others cannot, and to act where others hesitate. I believe that with the right technology and strategies, we can create unprecedented value."
Tong Yan remained silent for a moment, scrutinizing him. She was a shrewd businesswoman, not easily swayed by big words. Yet, there was something about Chen Fan's unwavering certainty that struck her. He didn't seem arrogant; he seemed... knowing.
"Very well, Mr. Chen," she finally said, a genuine smile returning to her face. "I respect your ambition. While you may not be writing for my newspaper directly, perhaps Urban Economic News can be the first to report on the rise of Heavenly Dao Group. We could offer media support, exclusive interviews, and market insights. In return, perhaps Heavenly Dao Group could provide us with early access to your market analyses or technological breakthroughs."
This was exactly the kind of collaboration Chen Fan was looking for. Media exposure from a prominent financial newspaper would significantly boost Heavenly Dao Group's reputation and reach.
"That sounds like a mutually beneficial arrangement, Editor-in-Chief Tong," Chen Fan agreed. "I believe this partnership will be a strong one."
"Excellent!" Tong Yan extended her hand across the table. "To a prosperous future, then."
Chen Fan shook her hand, feeling the firm grip of a powerful woman. This alliance, though subtle, marked another significant step in his journey. With the media's indirect backing, Heavenly Dao Group would gain legitimacy and attention much faster than he had anticipated.
He knew that building a financial empire wouldn't be easy, but with his unique advantages and growing network, the path was becoming clearer.