Empire of Desire: An Alpha’s Financial Reign - Chapter 11

The final round of the Huaxin University Business Innovation Competition took place at the iconic Beijing North Gymnasium. Known for its expansive capacity and grand architecture, the venue was filled to the brim with spectators. Thousands of eager eyes watched from every seat.

Bright lights beamed down from the rafters, casting the stage in a warm glow that heightened the sense of anticipation. Cameras flashed relentlessly, their shutters capturing every moment. Outside the arena, media outlets buzzed with energy, and clusters of investors whispered among themselves in hushed tones, their conversations forming a quiet tide of speculation and hope.

This wasn’t just a student event. It was a battleground of ideas—a place where youthful ambition collided with the forces of capital and innovation. The business competition had grown over the years to become a benchmark for China’s next generation of entrepreneurial minds. Tonight’s final wasn’t only about showcasing business acumen—it was a glimpse into the future of the nation’s corporate landscape.

The host for the evening was one of the TV station’s top anchors, known for her poised presence and infectious charm. Her voice resonated clearly across the gymnasium, drawing the audience into the rhythm of the evening. She moved through her introductions with elegance and ease, lifting the energy of the room with every word.

The judging panel was equally formidable. Comprising elite scholars from prestigious institutions, senior executives from Fortune 500 companies, and seasoned investors from top venture capital firms, each judge brought an air of authority. Their questions were incisive and uncompromising, designed not only to challenge but to uncover the core of each project’s potential.

Their critiques were precise and thoughtful, showing both industry expertise and a sharp eye for innovation.

Han Zaijing stood center stage under the spotlight. Though her heart thudded wildly in her chest, her expression remained composed. Her back was straight, her shoulders squared, and her gaze unwavering. As she scanned the audience—seeing hopeful expressions, skeptical stares, and curious onlookers—she took a quiet breath.

This was it. The moment she had worked tirelessly toward. The culmination of months of preparation, sacrifice, and relentless effort.

“Ms. Han Zaijing,” one of the judges, a senior representative from Jiang Capital, began with a thoughtful expression, “your concept is certainly creative. But in today’s rapidly evolving market, how do you plan to retain your competitive edge?”

There was a moment of silence as all eyes turned to Han Zaijing. She smiled with confidence, her voice steady and clear. “Games are not just entertainment—they are a necessity across every economic climate. People seek relief from stress, and gaming is a universal form of that. Our project draws from beloved Chinese intellectual properties, reviving cultural icons to fuel emotional and cultural consumption.

We’re focused on mobile gaming—the dominant trend in today’s market. Through streamlined 20-minute team battles and integrated social features, we aim to transform games into social hubs. Beyond the engaging content, we hold proprietary patents and possess strong market insight. Our vision is to build an immersive platform that reshapes the gaming experience.”

Her delivery was poised and articulate. Murmurs of appreciation rippled through the crowd.

A second judge, representing Yan Capital, leaned forward. “And what are your funding requirements? How do you envision your future interactions with capital markets?”

Han Zaijing didn’t miss a beat. “Our initial funding ask is 50 million yuan, allocated toward product refinement and aggressive market entry. But more than capital, we seek a partner—someone who aligns with our long-term vision and is ready to grow with us through multiple funding rounds.”

The panel nodded, impressed not only by her clarity but by the strategic thinking behind her words. The judges exchanged glances, and several began jotting down notes.

From the VIP section, Jiang Shutong, a rising star at Jiang Enterprise, observed the exchange with sharp eyes. Representing one of China’s most powerful financial groups—with sprawling networks in banking and investment—Jiang Shutong had been raised in a fiercely competitive household.

Her parents encouraged their children, her and her brother Jiang Hao, to fight for their place in the family empire through merit and results.

Tonight, Jiang Shutong saw something in Han Zaijing—something promising, something bold. Her gaze sharpened as she watched Han Zaijing navigate each question with composure and conviction. She admired not only the innovation behind the project but the leadership and courage it reflected.

As the presentations drew to a close, Jiang Shutong stood up and addressed the entire gymnasium. Her voice carried over the audience, calm yet assertive.

“Ms. Han Zaijing,” she said, locking eyes with the young entrepreneur, “your project is brimming with potential. Jiang Capital is prepared to invest and lead future rounds of funding.”

The gymnasium erupted. Applause thundered, camera flashes lit up the room like starlight, and whispers of awe spread like wildfire. Han Zaijing’s teammates, overcome with emotion, pulled her into a tight embrace, their eyes red with tears. They had spent sleepless nights preparing for this day. It wasn’t just a victory—it was validation.

On the sidelines, Ni Jia and her brother Ni Kuang watched the entire exchange unfold. Ni Jia jumped up in excitement, grabbing her brother’s arm. Her smile beamed like the spotlight itself. Beside her, Ni Kuang—usually reserved, usually protective—could only mutter under his breath, “Monster.”

It was the highest form of praise he could offer someone who had, against his expectations, earned both his admiration and his approval.

He had been wary of Han Zaijing. As a self-proclaimed sister-con, he rarely approved of anyone near Ni Jia. But tonight, watching her command the stage, challenge elite investors, and ultimately secure backing from one of the nation’s most powerful financial institutions—he was, reluctantly, impressed.

After the final round ended, Han Zaijing found herself surrounded by reporters, judges, and investors. Congratulatory words flowed from every direction. People wanted to know more, to join her journey, to follow the story she had just begun writing.

Amid the crowd, Jiang Wan approached her, eyes reflecting a newfound admiration. “Your presentation was exceptional,” she said warmly. “I hope we get the chance to collaborate in the future.”

As the event wrapped up and the gymnasium’s brilliant lights dimmed, Han Zaijing stepped out into the cool Beijing night. She stood at the entrance, her eyes lifting to the sky speckled with stars.

Her heart was still racing—but now with excitement. With purpose. With hope.

“This,” she whispered to herself, smiling as the wind brushed past her, “is just the beginning.”