Mo Fan and Qin Yu'er made their way to the Tianjin Magic Association after she finished her spa therapy... She was extra glowing today.
As Mo Fan and Qin Yu'er entered the boardroom of the Tianjin Magic Association. Three people were already seated around the table, including Mr. Li, the smug, rotund man occupying the central chair. His expression was a blend of self-satisfaction and veiled condescension.
"Good afternoon, Ms. Qin, Mr. Mo," Mr. Li greeted, though he made no effort to stand.
Mo Fan pulled out a chair for Qin Yu'er, who took her seat with a calm elegance before he joined her.
"Good afternoon, everyone," Mo Fan began smoothly, his tone polite yet direct. "Mr. Li, I understand you've prepared the deed papers and need our signatures?"
Mr. Li's eyes narrowed, his lips curling into a slight smirk. "Yes, Mr. Mo, I have indeed prepared the documents. But there's a slight... problem," he replied, his voice tinged with feigned regret.
Mo Fan raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. "A problem?" he repeated, his tone inviting Mr. Li to elaborate.
Mr. Li leaned back in his chair, steepling his fingers. "Yes, you see, since you both, and the esteemed Konstantinov family, are not domestic residents but part of a Russian conglomerate, there are certain... legal complications." As he said this he glanced at the Advocate, giving him the signal.
The Legal Advocate sitting next to him immediately started speaking, "Specifically, Chinese law—under Article 47—places restrictions on foreign nationals attempting to acquire land within our borders, especially in regions with environmental and security concerns."
The other two officials, the Foreign Affairs assistant manager and Mr. Li, nodded in agreement, supporting the Advocate's claim.
"Without clearance from your Russian government and a verified purpose for your investment in our territory," This time the Foreign Affairs Asst. manager continued with a wicked grin, "this transaction will be difficult to complete."
Qin Yu'er maintaining her composure. "I see… But may I ask why this was not mentioned in our previous discussions here?" she questioned, her tone clipped but controlled.
Mr. Li shrugged nonchalantly. "It's a complicated process, Ms. Qin. With international transactions, these requirements sometimes slip through initial discussions. You understand, I'm sure."
Qin Yu'er took a deep breath, glancing at Mo Fan briefly before addressing Mr. Li. "Mr. Li, I believe there's been a misunderstanding," she said calmly. "While it's true that I am a Russian national, my younger brother here, Mo Fan, is in fact a Chinese citizen."
She leaned forward slightly, her voice firm yet diplomatic. "Therefore, as the intended landowner, Mo Fan is entirely eligible to purchase this property. I am merely the financier in this transaction, covering the expenses on his behalf."
Mr. Li's smug expression faltered for a moment, clearly thrown off by her revelation. He glanced at the legal advocate, who looked just as taken aback.
"That... complicates things," Mr. Li muttered, his tone less confident.
Qin Yu'er didn't let up. "In that case, the laws and restrictions you mentioned do not apply to us. Mo Fan, as a Chinese national, fulfills the legal requirements, and thus we see no reason why this purchase cannot proceed."
The Foreign Affairs assistant manager shifted uncomfortably. "Mr. Li, this changes the scenario somewhat. If Mr. Mo is indeed a Chinese citizen, the foreign ownership clause no longer applies, as per our regulations."
Mr. Li's irritation was apparent, but he attempted to regain his composure. "Yes, well... even so, given the size and strategic location of the land near Bohai Bay, this deal still raises questions of national interest. Our concern is with the security implications and the potential risks involved."
Mo Fan leaned forward with a calm smile. "Mr. Li, the land in question is remote and largely uninhabited. If anything, our acquisition and planned development will help secure and utilize this territory productively."
Qin Yu'er gave a small, approving nod, continuing the point. "Furthermore, Mr. Li, as a Chinese citizen, Mo Fan has every right to invest in his own country. I assure you, we have no intentions that would jeopardize national security."
Mr. Li's frustration was evident, but he was clearly running out of valid objections. He shifted his focus back to his legal advocate, who looked through the paperwork and murmured quietly to Mr. Li.
Qin Yu'er's declaration about Mo Fan being a Chinese national seemed to take Mr. Li by surprise, but the man quickly recovered, his expression returning to one of obstinate scepticism.
He shifted in his seat, glaring at them as though attempting to dig for any remaining loopholes. "I understand your argument, Ms. Qin, and Mr. Mo. However, there's still one important issue we have to address." His voice turned cold, the earlier smugness replaced by a thinly veiled hostility. "You see, the ownership of land, especially such a large area, is a matter of national interest. It's not just about following the laws; we need to understand the true intent behind your purchase. It's not every day that a foreign company wishes to acquire a secluded island."
Qin Yu'er and Mo Fan exchanged a brief look. Mo Fan maintained his calm demeanor, but there was an edge to his smile, as though anticipating this very question. Qin Yu'er, her expression still calm and composed, leaned forward slightly, acknowledging Mr. Li's statement without losing her poise.
"Mr. Li, we understand your concerns. However, the purpose of acquiring this land is purely developmental. Our company intends to establish a self-sustained and eco-friendly city on the island, integrating modern infrastructure with the natural environment. This will not only provide employment opportunities but also contribute positively to the local economy and enhance China's international standing in terms of ecological development."
Mr. Li's eyebrows twitched, but he didn't let the faint trace of approval show on his face. "Eco-friendly city?" he repeated, sceptically. "You expect me to believe that? This is a huge piece of land, and such a project takes years to complete. Not to mention, you're planning on dealing with the monsters that roam there? The area is still considered dangerous, with numerous wild creatures inhabiting it. What's your real intention?"
Qin Yu'er's eyes narrowed slightly, a quiet but dangerous glint appearing in them. "Our intentions are exactly as stated, Mr. Li. The land will be developed to create a space for innovation and growth. The risks associated with the monsters are a challenge we are prepared to handle. This is an investment, not just in real estate but in the future."
But Mr. Li wasn't ready to back down just yet. He leaned forward, folding his hands on the table as his voice turned more pointed. "That's all well and good, but you see, this is a major decision. To proceed, we will require you to provide proof of your financial capacity, your connections to local development experts, and, most importantly, your government's support. If we're dealing with foreign interests here, I need to know why China should allow a foreign company to buy up such critical land. You'll have to state your purpose more specifically, Ms. Qin, and Mr. Mo."
The tension in the room thickened, and for a moment, the silence seemed to stretch on forever. Mo Fan's expression hardened, but his tone remained courteous. "Mr. Li, you are asking for details that are beyond what is customary for a simple real estate transaction. The truth is, you're not really interested in knowing our intentions, are you?"
Mr. Li's expression faltered briefly, before he tried to mask his discomfort with a forced chuckle. "You think too much, Mr. Mo. I'm simply doing my due diligence. There are procedures in place, and I'm bound to follow them. After all, this is a matter of great importance."
Qin Yu'er, not willing to let the matter drag on any longer, turned to face him directly, her voice now firm and unwavering. "Mr. Li, I assure you, my brother and I are prepared to comply with every regulation. We understand the significance of this land and the responsibilities that come with owning it. But let me make this clear—our intentions are purely developmental, and there will be no ulterior motives. If the government or anyone else has concerns, we will address them in due course. For now, all we ask is that you honor the agreement and allow the transaction to proceed."
The weight of her words seemed to linger in the air, but Mr. Li, though clearly uncomfortable, was still unwilling to let the matter go just yet. "I hear you, Ms. Qin, but I still need more than just assurances. The law is clear, and I must ensure that all the requirements are met before we can proceed. There are specific protocols for these types of transactions, and I'm afraid you'll have to provide more than just your word."
Qin Yu'er remained silent for a moment, her icy gaze fixed on Mr. Li as though measuring him. Beneath her calm demeanor, a subtle tension simmered—a sign she was growing tired of the games. She leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms with a hint of controlled impatience, and let the silence stretch, allowing Mr. Li to feel the weight of her gaze.
After a few moments, she finally spoke, her voice low but unmistakably sharp. "Mr. Li, let's not pretend we don't both know what's going on here," she began, her tone now carrying a hard edge. "You're clearly not interested in legal formalities or protocols. So let's skip the theatrics. How much is it going to take to make this transaction go smoothly? And more importantly—why are you doing this?"
Mr. Li blinked, visibly taken aback by her bluntness. He shifted uncomfortably in his chair, clearly unprepared for her to call him out so directly. He glanced toward his colleagues, who avoided his gaze, then back to Qin Yu'er, his smug façade cracking slightly.
"Well, Ms. Qin…" he stammered, struggling to regain his composure. "It's not… it's not just about money, you see. This is a large piece of land, very valuable, and it comes with certain... risks and responsibilities. We have to be cautious, you understand. And as for compensation… well, if you were willing to offer a figure that reflects the importance of this deal, perhaps we could reach an understanding."
Qin Yu'er's expression hardened further, her patience wearing thin. She leaned forward slightly, lowering her voice to a steely whisper that carried a dangerous undertone. "Mr. Li, I'd suggest you choose your words carefully. If this is about protecting your own interests, I assure you, we're not here to waste our time over petty negotiations."
Mo Fan placed a calming hand on her shoulder, giving her a slight nod before addressing Mr. Li himself, his voice deceptively casual. "Mr. Li, I think we've made it clear we're more than willing to compensate for your… concerns. But let's be honest—your persistence is beginning to feel more like extortion than a formality."
The legal advocate and Foreign Affairs assistant manager exchanged uneasy glances, sensing the tension in the room. The advocate cleared his throat and looked at Mr. Li nervously, perhaps realizing the deal was on the verge of collapse. "Mr. Li, maybe we should consider their proposal seriously. After all, their resources and influence could greatly benefit the local economy…"
But Mr. Li wasn't ready to relent just yet. With a forced smile, he sat back in his chair, adopting an air of false confidence. "I'm simply looking out for my country's interests, Ms. Qin. We have regulations to uphold, and without a solid purpose stated for acquiring such a vast area, I must exercise caution. Owning land in the vicinity of Bohai Bay isn't just an investment; it's a significant responsibility. So tell me—why exactly do you wish to own this land? A simple financial venture, or is there… something more?"
Qin Yu'er straightened, her expression calculating as she met Mr. Li's gaze head-on. She was clearly done with the diplomatic approach. "Fine," she replied icily. "If you need specifics, then here's the truth: we are planning to develop a secluded research and training facility that will contribute to global advancements in resource cultivation and energy efficiency. This location offers the unique seclusion and natural resources necessary for such an endeavor."
Mr. Li seemed to hesitate, taken aback by her bold claim. He looked at Mo Fan, as if seeking confirmation, but Mo Fan only leaned back in his chair, watching Mr. Li with an air of detached confidence.
"And I trust that should be sufficient reason to move forward without further games?" Qin Yu'er's tone held a warning edge. She was clearly done entertaining Mr. Li's ploys.
Mr. Li was silent for a moment, visibly caught off guard. The notion of a research and training facility sounded legitimate enough and even patriotic on paper. He looked from Qin Yu'er to Mo Fan, his mind racing, trying to find some last excuse, but the intensity in Qin Yu'er's gaze made him hesitate.
Finally, he gave a reluctant nod. "Alright," he said, his tone less smug than before. "A research facility sounds reasonable… But there's still the matter of ownership. Even if your intentions are noble, the process for foreign entities is—"
Qin Yu'er cut him off, her tone merciless. "As I stated before, Mr. Li, the land ownership will rest solely under my brother's name. He is a Chinese national. Any issues you claim to have are entirely irrelevant once we finalize the paperwork in his name."
Mr. Li's expression flickered, clearly realizing he was out of options. He exchanged another glance with the legal advocate, who nodded in quiet agreement. The Foreign Affairs assistant manager, sensing that this was the best course, looked at Mr. Li with a subtle warning.
After a moment's pause, Mr. Li forced a tight-lipped smile, attempting to maintain his dignity. "Very well," he said stiffly. "If all documentation is transferred to Mr. Mo's name, then… we will proceed."
Qin Yu'er allowed herself a slight smile. "Excellent. I expect to see the updated paperwork ready for signing by the end of the day."
Without waiting for further response, Mo Fan and Qin Yu'er rose, signaling the end of their patience. Mr. Li, realizing the power dynamic had shifted, nodded curtly, unable to meet their eyes as he muttered something to his associates about preparing the documents.
Before leaving the boardroom, Qin Yu'er turned and said, "We will resume the meeting to finalize the acquisition after our lunch. Please get the documents ready by then, as we will not around anymore." After saying her piece Qin Yu'er left the room with Mo Fan.