pjbooks Chapter 12: Awakening at the Chess Game, Brewing for Solo Flight
Chapter 12: Awakening at the Chess Game, Brewing for Solo Flight
Late spring of 2002, Kyoto. The night was as dark as ink, gently enveloping the entire city.
The warm spring breeze swept through the long streets, and the city lights twinkled.
The skyscrapers are ablaze with neon lights, and car headlights stream by.
The fragrance of magnolias wafts through the air along the street, and the city falls silent in the night.
Tang Muyang held Gong Yiqing's hand and walked slowly down the street, but his heart was stirred by the glimmer of light he had seen at the street corner.
Many people might misunderstand it as spying and sabotage, but only he himself knows the truth.
That beam of light did not come from anyone else, but was a reflection of his sudden inner clarity.
That was a thought that had been dormant for many years, finally sprouting at this moment.
It was a sign that he was awakening from his chess-playing days and wanted to break free from the chessboard.
It wasn't a conspiracy, nor a crisis, but rather the light that had finally ignited in his heart, a light that could break the deadlock.
The answer is clear at this moment: chess piece or chess player.
Meanwhile, at the Kyoto factory site.
Tang Jianguo was guarding the warehouse, checking the ledgers overnight.
He held the rear and trained his men.
Silently accumulating strength for the future.
The southeastern coast, thousands of miles away.
Peng Jiahui has cultivated a deep understanding of craftsmanship and won people's hearts.
Stabilize the technical foundation and await orders.
Although the three brothers lived in different places, their hearts were always in the same direction.
During his years at Hengxin, Tang Muyang resolved countless crises.
Supplier pressure, project disputes, and internal and external pressures.
He resolved each issue through his abilities.
With Gong Yiqing by his side, he was perfectly at ease.
To outsiders, he was incredibly successful.
But only he himself knew that he was always at the mercy of others.
The group's senior management clung to outdated ideas and decided to detach themselves from the market.
The Xinde Industrial Zone has a promising future, but its expansion has been repeatedly blocked.
He's more like a high-class butler.
No matter how well you do, you're still just a pawn on someone else's chessboard.
As night deepened, the office lights remained on.
Kyoto outside the window has already fallen into a tranquil slumber.
Gong Yiqing sat behind her desk.
Quietly organizing the meeting minutes for the second day, the pen scratching softly.
"Yi Qing".
Tang Muyang suddenly spoke, his voice low and deep.
Gong Yiqing gently put down her pen and looked up at him.
His eyes held a gentle question.
"What do you think determines a person's potential?"
She lowered her eyes and pondered for a moment before speaking softly.
"Is it a platform, or ambition?"
Tang Muyang chuckled softly, his smile barely perceptible.
"It's about perspective."
"If I only focus on the small plot of land in front of me..."
Then I'll just be a high-level wage earner for the rest of my life.
"But if I look at the entire chessboard..."
"Then I can be the player who makes the move."
Gong Yiqing was slightly taken aback.
She saw a light in Tang Muyang's eyes that she had never seen before.
That's not arrogance, that's not confidence.
Rather, it is a burning desire to break free from constraints and reshape the rules.
She understood at that moment.
The man before me now possesses a broader world within his heart.
Many people assume that he originally came from the jewelry industry and specializes in jade and design.
But no one knew that in order to shoulder the heavy responsibility of the Xinde Industrial Zone.
He had already been studying diligently late into the night countless times.
From blueprint reading, project management, and cost accounting to industrial planning and real estate logic.
He thoroughly understood the theories in the books and combined them with practical experience on the construction site.
It was this interdisciplinary struggle and deep reflection that led to this.
This gave him the confidence to move beyond jewelry and venture into real industries.
In addition, Tang Jianguo held the rear firmly, and Peng Jiahui focused on technical expertise.
And then there's Gong Yiqing, who trusts him unconditionally.
This is his true trump card in daring to give up everything and decide to start a business.
After the game of chess awakens, what follows is a long period of patient dormancy.
Tang Muyang showed no sign of anything amiss.
At Hengxin, he remained decisive and diligent.
He is meticulous in his work and makes decisive and steady decisions.
In private, however, he already sees himself from the perspective of a "chess player".
Re-examine the times and seize every fleeting opportunity.
He was also secretly bringing together the three brothers' scheme.
In Kyoto, Tang Jianguo is focusing on logistics.
Manage the warehouse, train personnel, and establish rules to ensure the rear is as secure as an iron barrel.
In the southeast, Peng Jiahui is deeply involved in technology.
Focus on technology, win people's hearts, and accumulate resources to build an unbreakable foundation.
The two performed their respective duties, echoing each other from afar.
This will become Tang Muyang's strongest foundation for starting his own business in the future.
He took advantage of business trips to travel all over the south and coastal areas.
In the jewelry industry, he noticed a shift in high-end customization towards emotional collections.
In the real estate industry, he recognized the enormous potential of urban renewal.
This is precisely the most viable way out for the future of the Xinde Industrial Zone.
Jewelry, real estate, urban renewal.
Three keywords were repeatedly shaped in his mind.
Gradually, a clear and vast business empire has taken shape.
At the same time, he quietly accumulated his own resources.
Connect with jewelry designers, architectural partners, and industry operators through the Hengxin platform.
These people don't care about immediate salary; they only value principles and character.
They will become the core team for his independent entrepreneurship in the future.
Through personal connections, he quietly secured access to scarce raw material sources.
Discreetly invest in small consulting projects in your own name.
Leaving no trace of faith, only silently verifying judgments.
Everything was done flawlessly.
He was like a patient cheetah lying in wait.
Hold your breath, observe the wind direction, and quietly wait for the right moment to jump.
Gong Yiqing was the only one who knew the truth.
They are also the most steadfast companions.
Every night, when it gets late, only the two of them are left in the office.
Tang Muyang finally let down his guard.
Discuss with her those grand plans that can't be written on reports.
Not long after, Tang Jianguo made a special trip from the factory area.
Upon meeting him, he immediately declared that he wanted to follow Tang Muyang to conquer the world.
"Muyang, I'm not waiting anymore. I'm quitting my job here and going with you."
Tang Jianguo spoke decisively, without the slightest hesitation.
Tang Muyang pressed down on his shoulder and gently shook his head.
"Jianguo, stay put and continue to stay in Hengxin."
"I'm just getting started; everything is still in the groundwork."
I don't want to drag you into this risky situation.
"Once I have a solid foundation and a clear path forward."
I called you over right away, let's do this together, brothers.
He paused, his tone unusually solemn.
"Remember, stay calm, our game has only just begun."
Seeing the certainty in his eyes, Tang Jianguo stopped insisting.
He nodded emphatically: "Okay, I'll listen to you."
After settling Tang Jianguo in, Tang Muyang made a long-distance call.
I called Peng Jiahui, who was far away on the southeast coast.
"Jiahui, it's me."
"Muyang, is there any movement on your end?"
Peng Jiahui's voice immediately revealed urgency.
"Yes, I'm preparing to separate myself from others."
Tang Muyang's voice was low and deep.
"You should remain still and continue to build up your strength and resources."
"Within two years, the three of us will get together, and the iron triangle must be established."
Peng Jiahui instantly understood his plan.
His tone was calm and firm: "Don't worry, I understand."
"I'm ready to serve at any time, awaiting your orders."
After hanging up the phone, a glimmer of light flashed in Tang Muyang's eyes.
Tang Jianguo secured the rear.
Peng Jiahui was accumulating strength abroad.
Gong Yiqing is by my side.
His team and escape route had already been quietly laid out.
One late night, Gong Yiqing quietly organized the documents.
"Aren't you afraid of failing if you give up everything you have now and start over?"
Tang Muyang reached out and held her hand tightly.
Warm palm, firm strength.
"With you by my side, I'm never afraid of failure."
What I fear is that it will be too late.
"I didn't have time to do the things I wanted to do most in my prime."
"We didn't have time to give you a future that truly belonged to us."
Gong Yiqing felt a warmth in her heart, and her eyes welled up with tears.
She took his hand in return and nodded gently.
"I understand. Whatever decision you make, I'll be there for you."
It was late summer of 2004.
A sweltering wind swept through the entire city.
Tang Muyang knew that the time was ripe.
He calmly submitted his resignation.
The news sent shockwaves through the entire senior management of Hengxin.
No one could believe it.
This president of a company that rose through the ranks in the north will leave at the height of his fame.
The senior board members personally intervened to persuade him to stay.
Higher salaries, more attractive stock options, and more important positions.
The terms offered became more and more generous each time.
Tang Muyang consistently refused politely, but his attitude remained firm.
That afternoon, a call came into the office from headquarters.
The caller ID reads: Lu Zhenting, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hengxin Group.
Tang Muyang took a deep breath and answered the phone.
"Chairman Lu."
"Muyang, I just finished reading your resignation letter."
Lu Zhenting's voice was steady and deep.
"You've done an impeccable job in the Northern Region these past few years."
"The group will not treat you unfairly; your salary will be tripled, and your board seat will be reserved for you."
"Just stay, name your terms."
This is the most unconventional and sincere attempt to retain Hengxin in its history.
Tang Muyang held the receiver, his tone calm yet firm.
"Chairman Lu, thank you for your kindness."
"But if I stay, no matter how high my position, I'll just be playing someone else's game."
"I'm still young this year, and I want to try being a chess player myself."
I'll set up my own game, and even if I lose, I'll accept it.
There was a long silence on the other end of the phone.
These words unlocked memories that had been buried for many years for Lu Zhenting.
Years ago, he did the same, starting from scratch.
With an indomitable spirit, they built Hengxin's empire.
The light in the eyes of this young man is exactly the same as the light in my own eyes back then.
"Well done, what a skillful player, what a brilliant strategy!"
Lu Zhenting chuckled softly, his voice filled with emotion, admiration, and regret.
"It's Hengxin's loss that they can't keep you, not your regret."
"Go ahead, go and make your own way in the world. I won't stop you, and I wish you all the best."
"Hengxin will always be your support. If you're tired or struggling, just give us a call."
"Thank you, Chairman Lu."
Tang Muyang's voice was slightly hoarse.
"Hang up."
Lu Zhenting sighed softly and hung up the phone.
In the office, Tang Muyang slowly put down the receiver.
A weight has finally been lifted from my heart.
I will always remember your kindness and support.
We will remain steadfast on the road ahead.
The day I left was sunny and bright.
Tang Muyang did not take Hengxin's paper or pen with him.
There was no private contact with any current employee.
He organized all project files, documents, and processes in a very orderly manner.
Even the handover manual was written in great detail.
HR Director Zhang stood at the elevator entrance, his eyes red-rimmed.
"Mr. Tang, are you really leaving like this?"
Old Zhang's voice was hoarse, full of regret.
"Old Zhang, business is business, and personal relationships are personal relationships."
Tang Muyang gently patted his shoulder.
"I'm leaving, but Hengxin will still be a good company."
"Do your best, and take care."
The elevator doors slowly closed.
It keeps the hustle and bustle of Hengxin Building and the reluctance to leave outside.
From that moment on, he was no longer President Tang of Hengxin Group.
He is just Tang Muyang.
A man who is about to take the reins of his own destiny.
Stepping out of the building, the summer sun was a bit too bright.
Gong Yiqing was already quietly waiting downstairs.
He was carrying a simple suitcase and two iced Americanos.
When she saw him come out, a gentle smile immediately appeared in her eyes.
Tang Muyang walked over quickly, took the coffee, and took a small sip.
A familiar taste, slightly bitter yet mellow, without added sugar.
Just like his habit over the years.
"Is everything ready?"
He asked softly.
"Um."
Gong Yiqing nodded gently and took his arm.
"The apartment has already been rented, and it's near the new company."
"I've already contacted those people in the team as you instructed."
Everyone is very interested and just waiting for your word.
She looked up, her eyes filled with trust, not confusion.
"Muyang, let's go."
Without hesitation, without looking back.
Tang Muyang gripped her hand tightly in return.
I could clearly feel the warmth and strength coming from my palm.
With a lover by my side, and brothers by my side.
No matter how great the storms ahead, we have nothing to fear.
He is no longer the firefighter who cleans up other people's messes.
No longer are highly paid employees who have no control over their own lives.
From this day forward, he is the captain.
It has a clear course, a steadfast partner, and the best second-in-command.
They are preparing to take their own boat and sail into the vast, deep sea that truly belongs to them.
In the following months, Tang Muyang and Gong Yiqing completely disappeared from the industry's sight.
They didn't make a high-profile announcement about starting their business, nor did they rush to register a company to create hype.
He does not appear in any media.
They were like two patient farmers.
In places where others cannot see.
Silently cultivating the land, repairing ditches, and waiting for the thunder.
Tang Muyang made frequent contact with his pre-selected business partners.
From jewelry designer to real estate fund manager.
From materials suppliers to operations talent.
Every conversation was carefully planned.
Be patient, avoid rash actions, and refrain from making empty promises.
Only accurately convey your own ideas and vision.
He maintained a low-profile relationship with Tang Jianguo and Peng Jiahui.
The three of them each performed their duties and responded to each other from afar.
This lays the deepest groundwork for the official reunion of the Iron Triangle three years later.
Gong Yiqing silently took on all the complicated and trivial backstage work.
Build a financial model and select office space.
Design the equity structure and sort out the start-up capital.
Her meticulousness, professionalism, and composure.
She shielded Tang Muyang from all the trivial matters.
This allows him to completely detach himself and focus on the core strategic layout.
In the dead of night, the two would occasionally stand side by side on the apartment balcony.
Beneath my feet are the lights of countless homes throughout the city.
In the distance, the skyline shimmers with neon lights.
A cool evening breeze gently brushed against my cheek.
Gong Yiqing leaned gently on Tang Muyang's shoulder.
Her voice was gentle and soft.
"Muyang, are you really ready?"
Tang Muyang gazed at the deep night in the distance.
A confident smile slowly curved the corners of his lips.
"The seeds have been planted, and the soil has been turned over."
All we have to do now is wait quietly.
"Waiting for a spring rain that is just right."
Then we can break through the earth and soar straight into the sky.
Hibernation is never about retreating.
Rather, it is to accumulate even greater power.
It will usher in an even more spectacular leap forward.
Tang Muyang, who belonged to Hengxin Group, has come to an end.
The era that belongs to Tang Muyang has only just begun.
Meanwhile, those eyes lurking in the shadows were already itching to act.
And it will be soon.
They turned their attention back to the two figures standing side by side.