Chapter 230: Lu Qingshan Ascends to Chairman, the British Capital Group's Nightmare Begins!

Lu Qingshan had already decided the answer; his voice grew more resolute, each word carefully considered, carrying a calm confidence: "With Star Han Investment Group as the core, each enterprise remains independently operated, but we must act in unison on major decisions. Externally we are a single entity; internally we remain each other's own boss."

He rose slowly, walked to the massive floor‑to‑ceiling window, and gazed down on the countless lights of Hong Kong Island, the dazzling illumination seeming to recount the city's splendor and vicissitudes. His silhouette, bathed in the light, appeared tall and imposing, his voice carrying unquestionable authority: "More importantly, we must create a joint capital pool. Each enterprise contributes according to its asset size, to counter the British Capital Group's hostile takeovers and financial attacks. Think about it—if they try to maliciously acquire one of us, the other eleven will immediately unite in retaliation. Would they still dare?"

He turned, his gaze sharp as a hawk's, sweeping each person's face: "This is not a simple capital cooperation; it is a community of destiny for Chinese enterprises. We will use the power of capital to tell those British guys that Chinese people are not to be bullied!"

The atmosphere in the conference room instantly became heated, excitement flashing in everyone's eyes. This unprecedented model of unity gave them hope for the rise of Chinese enterprises.

"This idea is excellent," Lv Zhiqiang said, standing up excitedly, a look of admiration on his face, his voice trembling slightly, "Now we truly have a voice. The British Capital Group will have to weigh its own strength if it wants to deal with us."

But he immediately frowned, his voice showing clear concern, his hands gripping the armrest: "But who will become the Chairman? The power of this position is enormous. Controlling several hundred billion in assets, someone might have impure motives. After all, hearts are hidden beneath the belly; who can guarantee there won't be internal strife?"

The atmosphere in the conference room suddenly turned subtle, as if an invisible tension spread through the air. All present were the heads of their respective enterprises, each a dominant power, none willing to submit to another. In everyone's eyes flickered complex lights—anticipation, worry, and deep calculation.

Li Zhaolong lightly stroked his teacup, his mind waging a fierce struggle. He certainly wanted the position, but Rationality told him that with his strength and influence, it would be hard to sway the crowd. Bao Chenggang's fist tightened silently, fine beads of sweat forming on his forehead. He Zhiqiang watched Lu Qingshan pensively, his eyes full of mixed emotions.

"I recommend Mr. Lu," Li Fuying volunteered, his voice loud and firm, breaking the eerie silence. He sprang to his feet, his gaze sharp: "Whether in ability or influence, Mr. Lu is the most suitable candidate. Today's press conference has already proved everything."

He moved to the conference table, hands braced on the surface, leaning forward, his gaze scanning the room, his voice growing more impassioned: "Everyone, what we need is a leader with courage, boldness, and foresight. Apart from Mr. Lu, who else could speak those words in such a setting? Who else dares to directly challenge the British Capital Group's authority?"

His voice grew heavier, bearing a sense of historical weight: "We Chinese have been suppressed by the British for over a hundred years; what we need is a true leader, someone who can guide us toward the light. Mr. Lu's performance today showed me that possibility."

"I agree as well," Bao Chenggang followed, slapping the table excitedly, causing the teacups to tremble, "Mr. Lu's press conference today showed us what courage is. To speak those words in that setting, unafraid of the British Capital Group's threat, that boldness is enough."

His voice rose with emotion, his face flushing red: "I've been in the business world for over twenty years, Bao Chenggang, and have seen countless monsters, but I've never encountered anyone like Mr. Lu. So young yet possessing mature wisdom and fearless courage. Such a person—if not Chairman, who else could be?"

"In favor," He Zhiqiang also raised his hand, admiration flashing in his eyes, his voice sincere and firm, "Mr. Lu has strength, boldness, and foresight. Most importantly, he has a heart that strives for Chinese glory. Today's farmer story made my blood boil; I almost want to rush to the Imperial Governor's Office to argue."

"I support as well," Wu Zhihua stood up, voice excited, fist clenched, "Mr. Lu's farmer story voiced the sentiments of all of us. Such a person is worthy of being our leader. What we need is not a meek nice guy, but a hero who dares to speak for the Chinese."

"Exactly," Chen Zhiqiang also expressed, his voice firm, "Mr. Lu's vision and perspective far surpass ours. He sees not short‑term gains but the future of the Chinese. Such a person is worthy of our following."

One approving voice after another rang out, and soon ten people voiced support. Expectation and excitement filled every face, as if they saw the rise of Chinese enterprises. The conference room's atmosphere grew ever hotter, each person infected by this historic moment.

Li Jiasheng had remained silent, sitting quietly in the corner, fingers lightly tapping the table in a rhythmic sound. Everyone's gaze focused on her, the pressure suffocating her. As the head of the Faction, her stance was crucial; without her agreement, the Business Association could not be formed.

"Chairman Li, what is your opinion?" Li Zhaolong asked, his voice showing obvious tension, cold sweat beading on his forehead, "Your vote is crucial. Among the twelve present, your weight is the greatest."

The conference room's atmosphere grew tense, everyone held their breath, even the sound of heartbeats became audible. Li Jiasheng remained silent for a moment, her gaze complexly fixed on Lu Qingshan, an expression impossible to read. She contemplated the possible consequences of this decision, a fierce inner battle raging within her.

Supporting Lu Qingshan means a total break with the British Capital Group, and entails huge risk. A large portion of the Faction's overseas business is tied to Yingzi; if the split becomes real, the losses would be severe.

Yet not supporting would lead to isolation by other Chinese enterprises. At this historic moment, choosing the wrong side would have equally unthinkable consequences. Moreover, 1997 is drawing nearer, and Chinese enterprises must have their own organization.

This is a difficult choice, but also a choice that must be made.

"I agree as well," she finally nodded, her voice gentle yet firm, like a spring breeze soothing the heart. Then her voice turned serious, wisdom flashing in her eyes: "But I have one condition."

Everyone's hearts rose to their throats, breathing became rapid. This condition could decide the fate of the Business Association.

"What condition?" Lu Qingshan asked, his voice calm as water, though a hint of alertness flashed in his eyes.

"The Business Association's charter must explicitly state that any major decision requires more than two‑thirds of the votes to pass," Li Jiasheng said firmly, staring directly at Lu Qingshan, unafraid, "We cannot allow anyone to act unilaterally, not even the Chairman. The Chinese Chamber of Commerce seeks democracy, not despotism."

She paused, her voice becoming even more solemn: "Furthermore, the use of the capital pool must be transparent; every expenditure must have detailed records. We must prevent any form of corruption or abuse of authority."