On the Blue Planet, in Wujiang City, within the headquarters of the Seventh Metal Refinement Group, Zhang Xiaolan followed a secretary to the top-floor office.
The secretary, a woman in her early twenties with a sweet yet capable demeanor, knocked on the door and said respectfully, "Mr. Chairman, Manager Zhang has arrived."
A gentle voice responded from the other side. "Please, let her in."
The secretary was momentarily surprised by the chairman’s tone. Turning to Zhang Xiaolan with a smile, she said, "Manager Zhang, please go in." She even opened the door for her.
Feeling somewhat flattered, Zhang Xiaolan nodded politely before stepping inside.
In the luxurious and imposing office, a man in his fifties rose from behind his desk, his face warm with a genial smile. "Manager Zhang, you’re here. Please, have a seat."
"Mr. Chairman." Feeling slightly uneasy, Zhang Xiaolan approached and sat down, unsure why the chairman of the neighboring headquarters building had called for her.
Once she had seated herself, the chairman spoke in a mild tone. "Manager Zhang, you’ve been here for over ten years. After all this time, is there anything you’d like to say about the company?"
Zhang Xiaolan hesitated, puzzled as to why such a question was being directed at an ordinary production department manager like herself. After a brief pause, she replied cautiously. "I think the company is excellent in every aspect."
"There’s no need to be reserved, Manager Zhang. I’ve called you here today primarily to discuss your potential promotion.
"Recently, one of the group’s deputy general managers resigned due to health reasons, and I’ve been considering candidates to fill the position. Based on your performance over the years, I believe you’d be an excellent fit for the role. That’s why I had my secretary invite you here to discuss your thoughts.
"Of course, if you’re not interested in this position, I could also recommend you for a role at the Federation’s Alloy Refinement Headquarters in the capital. Several key positions there have recently opened up as well.
"In truth, I’d prefer for you to go to the capital. As one of the Federation’s three major centers, it would offer better opportunities for your future development."
"Umm...?" For a moment, Zhang Xiaolan was completely stunned.
She was just a production department manager, recently promoted only a few months ago. Now she was suddenly being considered for the deputy general manager role within the group. Isn't this promotion happening a bit too quickly?
As for the Federation’s Alloy Refinement Headquarters in the capital—her family lacked any connections over there, didn’t they?
When something seemed too good to be true, there was usually a catch. This thought made Zhang Xiaolan instinctively wary.
Noticing the change in her expression, the chairman smiled and explained. "Manager Zhang, there’s no need to overthink it. This promotion is partly related to Mr. Chen Chu..."
About ten minutes later, Zhang Xiaolan exited the office, her expression still dazed.
According to the chairman, Chen Chu, one of the Federation’s most brilliant geniuses of this generation, had made outstanding contributions to the Federation last month after entering the mythical world.
To honor those who contributed to humanity, the Federation not only provided substantial rewards, but also ensured that their families were well cared for, eliminating any worries for these heroes.
It was only today that Zhang Xiaolan learned her company was actually a small department under the Federation’s Alloy Refinement Headquarters, specializing in the production of 49-1 missile casings.
However, none of this mattered compared to the fact that her eldest son seemed to have broken through in his cultivation again, becoming even stronger.
At 6 PM, Chen Hu, a sturdy young man standing two meters tall with solid muscles, carried a school bag as he returned home. Despite his imposing physique, his face still retained the softness of a middle schooler.
As he walked through the old neighborhood, he noticed some changes. Several areas of the street were now blocked off, as if undergoing construction. Even a few nearby buildings, which had been perfectly intact that morning, were now surrounded by metal sheets, with clouds of dust billowing from within.
Entering the courtyard, Chen Hu saw his mother, Zhang Xiaolan, wearing an apron and chatting with a neighbor.
After greeting the neighbor, Chen Hu asked curiously, "Mom, is our area being demolished?"
Zhang Xiaolan shook her head. "Not demolished, just some road repairs. And a few houses nearby were sold and are being renovated. It seems they’re building an office there."
"Oh." Chen Hu nodded.
"By the way, Ah Chu sent you some things via express delivery. He said to drink one bottle every day. It will help you feel less hungry."
Chen Hu’s eyes lit up immediately. "Bro sent me something? I’ll go check it out!"
With that, he dashed into the house, brimming with excitement.