Chapter 61: In a Good Mood
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Fangyuan Capital stood as one of the premier venture capital firms in the realm of Hua Land. The visionary behind this firm, Fangyuan, was a luminary in the industry often referred to as the “Venture Capital Maestro.” Any project that garnered her optimistic support was almost guaranteed to achieve popularity following her investment. Numerous small and medium-sized enterprises thrived and expanded due to the support from her company.
In the past, Fang Liguo had enjoyed the privilege of securing funds effortlessly from Fangyuan Capital for any endeavor he wished to pursue. Even in cases where a project ultimately faltered, leading to financial losses, Fangyuan Capital refrained from casting blame. Observing the special treatment Fang Yuan Capital accorded him, other businesses surmised he had powerful connections and accorded him similar courtesy. So, what had transpired to alter this dynamic? Why had their collaboration seemingly come to an inexplicable halt?
Fang Liguo pondered, “What was the nature of the most recent project for which we secured funds from Fangyuan Capital?”
Secretary Zhuang gently reminded him, “President Fang, around two months ago, you secured a 500-million investment from Fangyuan Capital with the intention of acquiring IL.”
IL represented a cutting-edge technology company specializing in virtual fitting experiences. By standing in front of a specially designed mirror and interfacing with its system, customers could virtually try on the entire range of garments available in the store without physically donning them. The Fang Clan had already established a reputable presence in the clothing industry, owning their own manufacturing facilities and brick-and-mortar stores. Fang Liguo’s plan had been to integrate IL’s virtual fitting mirrors across all Fang Clan physical stores. This strategic move aimed to expedite customer trials and enhance the overall purchase rate.
Secretary Zhuang sighed, “However, it turned out that the experience of using the IL fitting mirrors was vastly different from actually wearing the clothes. The disparities were significant.” Additionally, the maintenance costs for the IL mirrors were exorbitant, and they were highly sensitive to environmental conditions. Extended exposure to sunlight could lead to ruptures and even spontaneous combustion. Damp environments often resulted in malfunctions, with occasional distortions appearing on the mirror’s display…
Undeterred, Fang Liguo boldly installed these mirrors in nearly 10,000 physical stores. In the end, he was compelled to dismantle them all, facing a costly failure. This endeavor set him back a total of 700 million. Apart from the 500 million invested by Fang Yuan, an additional 200 million flowed into it… “Could this be the catalyst?” Fang Liguo contemplated. Was this why Fangyuan Capital had withdrawn from cooperating with him?
“It shouldn’t have escalated to that extent,” Secretary Zhuang interjected swiftly. “Remember when you initially secured one billion from Fangyuan Capital for the Clothing City investment? Eventually, despite losing it all and incurring an additional 300 million, Fangyuan Capital continued to collaborate with us.”
Fang Liguo found this line of reasoning logical. If they were intent on discontinuing cooperation, they would have cut ties earlier. Why wait until now?
“Did Fangyuan Capital convey anything beyond reprimanding me?” Fang Liguo inquired.
Secretary Zhuang responded, “No, they did not.”
Given that Fangyuan Capital’s founder remained conspicuously absent, Wu Di, the region’s administrator, assumed charge over all dealings.
“During the call, it was Liu, President Wu’s Special Assistant, who voiced their reprimand,” Secretary Zhuang hesitated before continuing.
Fang Liguo’s patience was wearing thin. Frustrated, he tugged at his tie and demanded, “Why the hesitation? If there’s more to share, spit it out!”
Secretary Zhuang revealed, “It’s just that… Fangyuan Capital has ceased cooperation and appears rather pleased about it. Just before ending the call, 1 distinctly heard laughter on their end…”
“…” Fang Liguo began pondering once more. What exactly did this laughter signify?
“This isn’t acceptable. I’ll personally contact Special Assistant Liu and ascertain the situation,” he declared.
Secretary Zhuang promptly handed over the office landline.
Fang Liguo dialed Special Assistant Liu’s number. Ordinarily, Liu would pick up without delay, but now, only a cold, mechanized voice responded, “We apologize, but the number you are trying to reach is currently unavailable. Please try again later…”
Suspicion crept in, and Fang Liguo made several more attempts. His agitation mounted. It wasn’t that he couldn’t connect; he had clearly been barred! Frustrated, he unfastened his collar and called Liu’s superior, Wu Di. Yet, Wu Di too had placed him on a blacklist.
Suppressing his anger, Fang Liguo persisted with more calls, yet none went through. An entire hour of relentless effort yielded no successful communication.
On the periphery, Secretary Zhuang trembled, while a message alert resonated: “President, President Fang…”
“Can’t you perceive my irritable state? Spare me the chatter and allow me a moment to compose myself!” Fang Liguo’s frustration sought an outlet as it brimmed within him.
Choosing silence over speech, Secretary Zhuang reached for the notepad on the table and scripted: [President Fang, the board of directors is seeking your presence].
Gazing at the words, Fang Liguo’s vexation only escalated. “When the board of directors beckons, you can’t just instruct me on what to write!”
Secretary Zhuang lamented, “President Fang, you were the one who advised me to stay quiet…”
“These elders usually revel in their dividends. Yet, when an issue surfaces, they swiftly allocate blame to us!” Fang Liguo rose from his seat and retrieved his jacket. “Let them wait for now. Arrange my car. I intend to personally pay a visit to Fangyuan Capital Group!”
Secretary Zhuang hesitated, “President Fang, are you sure about this?”
Fang Liguo pressed on, “I’m heading there to have a direct talk with Wu Di!”