With Wang Linhai recovering steadily and Xiao Yun's spiritual foundation subtly stabilized, Chen Fan's focus shifted firmly back to Heavenly Dao Group. Wang Gia Huy's explicit backing had sent shockwaves through the business world. Top talents, previously hesitant to join a startup, now flocked to Heavenly Dao Group, eager to be part of what was being hailed as the next big thing.
Lin Yue, now fully in her element, skillfully managed the influx of applications and the rapid expansion. Within two weeks, Heavenly Dao Group had not only secured a spacious, modern office in District 1 but had also assembled a core team of brilliant AI developers, financial analysts, and cybersecurity experts. They were young, ambitious, and utterly dedicated.
Chen Fan, as CEO and Chairman, oversaw the strategic direction. He leveraged his "god-tier knowledge" to formulate groundbreaking AI algorithms for financial analysis, predictive modeling for market trends, and robust cybersecurity protocols for digital asset management. He wasn't just building a company; he was laying the foundation for a technological and financial fortress.
His cultivation also continued apace. The Spirit Gathering Hand allowed him to subtly draw spiritual qi from the vibrant energy of the city, from the ancient trees in parks, and even from the bustling crowds, accelerating his progress without needing constant access to spirit stones. He was steadily approaching the peak of Late Qi Refining.
One morning, Lin Yue entered Chen Fan's spacious new office, a tablet in her hand.
"Brother Chen, our initial AI models for predictive market analysis are showing incredible accuracy," she reported, her eyes shining with excitement. "And we've secured our first major client for digital asset management—a wealthy real estate magnate who heard about our advanced security from Chairman Wang himself!"
Chen Fan nodded, a faint smile on his face. "Excellent, Lin Yue. Keep up the good work. Our focus for the next quarter is to refine these core products and expand our client base strategically."
"Understood!" Lin Yue affirmed. "Also, Chairman Wang Gia Huy has extended an invitation for you to attend a private dinner at his mansion this Saturday. He mentioned it's a gathering of some of the city's most influential figures. He specifically wants to introduce you."
Chen Fan's eyes narrowed slightly. A dinner at Wang Gia Huy's mansion, with influential figures? This wasn't just a social event; it was a formal introduction into the highest echelons of the city's power structure. It was an opportunity to solidify his position and expand his network even further.
"I'll attend," Chen Fan stated. He knew this would be a crucial step.
Saturday evening arrived. Chen Fan, dressed in a custom-tailored suit that perfectly accentuated his now refined physique, arrived at Wang Gia Huy's sprawling mansion. The estate was a testament to immense wealth, with lush gardens, intricate architecture, and a fleet of luxury cars parked outside.
Inside, the grand hall buzzed with polite conversation. Distinguished businessmen, top government officials, and renowned scholars mingled. Chen Fan, with his Mid-Grade Heavenly Eye Technique active, could perceive the varying auras of power, ambition, and subtle undercurrents of influence.
Wang Gia Huy, looking robust and cheerful, immediately spotted Chen Fan and came forward with a warm smile. "Mr. Chen! Welcome! I'm so glad you could make it. Linhai is doing wonderfully, thanks to you. She specifically wanted to thank you herself, but she's resting upstairs."
"Chairman Wang," Chen Fan greeted, a faint smile on his face. "It's my pleasure."
Wang Gia Huy then began the introductions. "Gentlemen, allow me to introduce Mr. Chen Fan, the visionary behind Heavenly Dao Group! He is not just a financial genius but also the one who performed a miracle for my daughter!"
A ripple of murmurs went through the crowd. Many had heard the rumors, but seeing Wang Gia Huy's sincere gratitude and the direct mention of a "miracle" confirmed that Chen Fan was no ordinary individual.
Among the guests, Chen Fan noticed a few familiar faces from his past life – figures who would rise to prominence in the coming years. One, in particular, caught his eye: Nguyen Van Cuong, a shrewd real estate developer who would later become a major player in urban infrastructure projects. And another, Pham Thi Thao, a brilliant but understated tech investor who would identify several unicorn startups.
He also spotted Tong Yan from Urban Economic News, who gave him a knowing wink from across the room.
The night unfolded with networking and subtle exchanges of power. Chen Fan, with his sharp insights into market trends and technological advancements, quickly impressed many. He spoke with confidence and clarity, revealing just enough to intrigue, but never fully exposing the depth of his knowledge. His Mid-Grade Heavenly Eye Technique even allowed him to subtly gauge the true intentions and hidden anxieties of those he spoke with, giving him a significant edge.
As the evening neared its end, Nguyen Van Cuong approached Chen Fan, a friendly smile on his face. "Mr. Chen, it's truly a pleasure to meet you. I've been very impressed by your company's initial work. I have a major urban development project coming up soon, and I'm looking for a partner with cutting-edge digital asset management and smart city AI solutions. Perhaps Heavenly Dao Group could be that partner?"
Chen Fan's eyes gleamed. This was it. The first major collaboration opportunity, directly leveraging his company's core strengths. This wasn't just a client; this was a strategic alliance with a future titan of real estate.
"Mr. Cuong," Chen Fan said, extending his hand. "I believe Heavenly Dao Group is exactly what you're looking for. Let's discuss it further."
The path to 1,000 billion VND was becoming clearer and wider.