The God of Wealth starts with doing whatever you want

The birthday banquet at the Zhong family's old residence was held in a meticulously decorated banquet hall in the courtyard.

Although it was a family banquet and not large in scale, it was of extremely high standard.

The mahogany round table is covered with an elegant tablecloth, and the tableware is made of warm and smooth bone china. Each dish looks like home cooking, but in fact, the selection of ingredients, knife skills, and cooking time are all exquisite, exuding understated luxury.

Guests were seated according to their relationship to each other and their age, creating a harmonious yet dignified atmosphere.

Xu Yun was seated slightly to the side of the main table, next to Zhong Jianguo and several core elders, sharing a table with Zhong Yanyan, Zhong Lei, and several other members of the Zhong family of the same generation.

This position itself is a silent form of recognition and acceptance.

At the beginning of the banquet, Mr. Zhong gave a brief thank you speech and raised his glass to invite guests to drink.

After three rounds, the atmosphere gradually became more lively.

Xu Yun became the focus of attention among his peers and even his elders.

The first to ask a question was one of Zhong Yanyan's cousins, who worked in a ministry and had a refined demeanor, wearing gold-rimmed glasses.

"Xu Yun, Yan Yan told me that besides investing, you also have investments in the real economy and high-tech fields?"

He pushed up his glasses, his tone inquisitive but not aggressive, and asked, "The 'Future Energy' company that's been making waves lately, working on solid-state batteries, seems to have your involvement behind it?"

Upon hearing this, the young people at the table all looked over.

Being in the system or related industries, they were naturally already familiar with "solid-state batteries," a disruptive technology that is shaking up the global energy and automotive landscape.

Xu Yun put down his chopsticks, lightly dabbed his lips with a napkin, and smiled politely: "My cousin is well-informed. 'Future Energy' is indeed an investment I made with several partners."

The main reason is that I'm optimistic about the future of solid-state batteries, and I also want to contribute to the development of the new energy industry.

His answer was humble, yet it highlighted the key point.

It's not that he "has a shadow," but rather that he is one of the main investors.

"Oh?"

My cousin, who works at the National Development and Reform Commission and researches industrial policy, became interested and said, "I've read the relevant reports and industry analysis briefings. If your energy density and cycle life data are accurate, it is indeed a revolutionary breakthrough."

Where are we now? In the lab stage? Or…?

"It seems they've already entered mass production," Xu Yun said calmly, dropping a bombshell.

"Large-scale production?"

The older cousin's eyes widened slightly, and even the elders who were talking in hushed tones next to her began to listen.

They are well aware that there is a huge technological and engineering gap between the laboratory and mass production.

Many technologies that were touted as groundbreaking have failed at this step.

"Yes."

Xu Yun nodded and explained further: "Our first pilot production line is operating stably, and the yield rate has reached a commercially viable level."

Just last week, the first batch of products, delivered according to the pre-arranged agreement, was shipped to Xiaomi Auto Group for testing and finalization of their next-generation flagship model.

"Millet?"

Zhong Lei interjected, showing great interest in tech products, "You mean Xiaomi, the company founded by Lei Jun? They're going to build cars and even use your batteries? That's fast!"

Xu Yun smiled and said, "Mr. Lei is a very decisive entrepreneur. Once he has identified a direction, he invests all his energy into it. We also reached a cooperation agreement because our philosophies align."

"Priority cooperation?"

The cousin astutely grasped the key phrase and asked, "Does that mean there are other manufacturers in the queue?"

"There are quite a few indeed."

Xu Yun didn't hide anything and said in a calm tone, "I've already contacted several leading emerging domestic automakers, as well as some traditional car companies that are determined to transform."

Some are discussing specific supply agreements, while others are waiting for our production capacity to ramp up further.

After all, solid-state batteries are still a scarce resource.

He spoke casually, but to those in the know, it sounded like the roar of a gold mine being mined.

Solid-state batteries are the heart of new energy vehicles. Whoever controls the most advanced and reliable battery supply will gain a commanding position in the competition for the next generation of automobiles.

Xu Yun's casual remark revealed a stake in the industry's future.

At this moment, a family friend of the Zhong family, the CEO of a large state-owned energy group, who was sitting at the next table, came over with a wine glass in his hand.

He had clearly overheard the conversation.

"Little Xu,"

The boss smiled broadly, patted Xu Yun on the shoulder, and said, "The younger generation is truly formidable!"

Our group's research institute has been tracking your battery.

I never expected you guys to get mass production so quietly. That's amazing!

He raised his glass: "Come, let me toast you. Maybe we'll have opportunities to cooperate in areas like energy storage power stations and special vehicles in the future."

Xu Yun quickly stood up, raised his cup with both hands, the rim slightly lower than the other person's, and said with a smile, "Uncle Zhang, you flatter me."

You are a senior in the industry, and we still have a lot to learn from you.

Energy storage and special-purpose vehicles are indeed important application areas. I will definitely seek your advice in the future if the opportunity arises.

The two drank it all in one gulp, and the atmosphere was lively.

Mr. Zhang's initiative to toast and his public gesture of goodwill seemed to send a signal that raised everyone's opinion of Xu Yun to a new level.

This young man is not just a wealthy investor, but more like a rising star in the industry with core technologies at his disposal.

Zhong Jianguo was at the main table, talking with his elders while keeping an eye on Xu Yun's movements.

Seeing Xu Yun's appropriate and humble demeanor, demonstrating both strength and modesty, and communicating with all parties with ease, his eyes showed even greater admiration.

My daughter has excellent taste.

Zhong Yanyan sat next to Xu Yun, a faint smile always on her lips.

She would occasionally whisper to Xu Yun about one or two guests who came to say hello, but most of the time, she would just quietly watch him become the center of attention, her eyes filled with both pride and tenderness.

Just as the banquet reached a relaxed and harmonious climax, a burst of hearty laughter and greetings came from the entrance of the old house.

"Dr. Zhong, I wish you boundless happiness and longevity! Hahaha, I'm late, I'll punish myself with three drinks!"

Everyone looked in the direction of the voice and saw Lin Zhengyu walking in confidently, dressed in a well-tailored casual suit.

He carried two boxes of tea with simple, antique packaging and walked straight to Zhong Shichang at the main table.

"Lin boy, you actually know how to come?"

Grandpa Zhong was clearly in a very good mood today. When he saw Lin Zhengyu, the serious lines on his face softened considerably. He chuckled and scolded, "I heard you've been making quite a splash in Tokyo lately, even catching your father's attention."

Lin Zhengyu chuckled and handed the tea leaves to the staff member next to him, saying, "It's just a small token of my appreciation. I know you enjoy this kind of tea, so I specially got some old tree Pu'er from my grandfather."

"Those are just small-time operations in Tokyo; I'm just trying to make a living by following Xu Yun."

As he spoke, his gaze swept across the banquet hall, quickly locking onto Xu Yun, his eyes lighting up.

After exchanging a few pleasantries with Grandpa Zhong and several other key elders, and offering a toast, Lin Zhengyu walked straight to Xu Yun's table.

"Hey, Young Master Xu, it's Lei Zi!"

Lin Zhengyu, as if they were old friends, pulled over an empty chair and squeezed in between Xu Yun and Zhong Lei.

He greeted Zhong Yanyan and her brother first, then lightly punched Xu Yun on the shoulder and said, "Well done, you came all the way here to wish the old man a happy birthday without even telling me beforehand. If I hadn't been so well-informed, I would have almost missed it."

Xu Yun smiled and poured him a glass of wine: "Aren't you busy with things in Tokyo? I thought you might not have time."

"No matter how busy I am, with Elder Zhong's birthday banquet and you here, how could I not come?"

Lin Zhengyu picked up his glass, clinked it with Xu Yun's, and then raised his glass to the others at the table, saying, "Everyone, Xu Yun is my good brother."

The Lin family is also a family with deep roots. Lin Zhengyu himself is quite famous in the industry, so everyone at the table naturally gave him face and raised their glasses in response.

After a few drinks, the atmosphere became even more lively.

Lin Zhengyu was a master at creating a lively atmosphere, and he quickly became friends with his peers from the Zhong family.

As they chatted, the topic naturally circled back to Xu Yun and the solid-state battery he had just mentioned.

"Speaking of batteries."

Lin Zhengyu took a sip of wine, looked at Xu Yun, and said in a tone that was half teasing and half serious, "You've really tricked me into getting on this pirate ship."

When you first said you were getting into batteries, I thought it was just about investing some money and playing around with technology. I never imagined you'd go all out like this.

A couple of days ago, my father-in-law specifically asked me if we were involved in the much-discussed "future energy" concept.

I could tell from his eyes that the old man was interested; he figured all the family businesses connected to the automotive supply chain wanted a piece of the action.

Xu Yun chuckled and said, "It's your factory, you can make the decisions!"

"Yes, that's why I'm letting you know in advance that I'm planning to expand production!"

Lin Zhengyu said, "We have money, manpower, and connections now, so what are we afraid of? Let's quickly increase production and take over the market!"

His words carried the characteristic boldness and directness of the Lin family scions, which made the Zhong family scions at the table, who worked within the system, smile knowingly, but were also secretly alarmed.

The Lin family is going to fully support Xu Yun and see him go all the way in this race.

Then, his expression became more serious, and he said, "The location for the second phase of the factory has been decided. It will be in an industrial park in the Yangtze River Delta, where the policies, supporting facilities, and logistics are all very suitable."

The equipment is being procured through global bidding. This time, the line to be installed is a fully automated G-level production line, designed to have ten times the current capacity.

However, this can't be rushed; the craftsmanship, quality control, and supply chain all need to be solidified step by step.

"Ten times?" My cousin, who works at the National Development and Reform Commission, subconsciously did some calculations and said, "If you can really reach the designed production capacity, then your market share in the domestic solid-state battery field will be..."

"It's highly likely to be the leading company."

Xu Yun is no longer the same Xu Yun; his knowledge and perspective have changed.

He readily replied, "Therefore, we dare not be careless. For batteries, safety and consistency are the lifeline. We would rather be slower than be too careless."

Hearing that Xu Yun still prioritized "safety" and "stability" despite such high praise and temptation, the elders present couldn't help but nod in approval.

This young man possesses profound wisdom and remains humble and composed; he is indeed destined for great things.

"It's better to play it safe, it's better to play it safe."

Lin Zhengyu also put away his joking expression and said, "I was just saying that. As for how to do it, you take the helm, and I'll cheer you on."

"roll."

Xu Yun said with dissatisfaction, "I'm the one who doesn't have to do anything; everything is yours."

"Hehe, you are the real king, I am at most a regent."

Lin Zhengyu joked, then suddenly seemed to remember something, lowered his voice and whispered, "CATL has been looking for you like crazy lately."

The moment the name "CATL" was mentioned, the table fell silent.

This is currently the undisputed global leader in power batteries and one of the benchmark enterprises in China's new energy industry.

Its every move affects countless people.

Xu Yun: "What do you want with me???"

Lin Zhengyu didn't mince words, saying, "Their relevant personnel have been trying to arrange a high-level meeting to discuss the possibility of cooperation through phone calls, emails, and intermediaries."

"cooperate?"

Zhong Lei asked curiously, "Are they worried that your batteries will steal their market share and want to negotiate? Or do they really want to cooperate?"

"Both, I suppose."

Lin Zhengyu analyzed: "As an industry leader, CATL has a very deep accumulation of technology, production processes and customer channels."

Our solid-state battery is revolutionary, but it has only just entered mass production, and it still needs time to be improved and iterated in many aspects.

Ningde faces a challenge in terms of technological approach.

If their existing liquid lithium battery technology is rapidly replaced by solid-state batteries, their first-mover advantage and market position will be severely impacted.

Therefore, they both feel threatened and must face the trend.

Taking the initiative to make contact, ascertain the facts, and seek potential cooperation or even cross-licensing of technology are all rational choices.

Despite his cynical attitude, Lin Zhengyu's business acumen is undeniable, and his analysis is calm and objective.

He neither belittled his opponents nor acted arrogantly, but clearly outlined the landscape of industry competition.

"So, are you planning to meet them?" Zhong Yanyan asked softly.

"Of course I want to see him."

Xu Yun took over the conversation, smiled, and said, "In the business world, there are no permanent enemies, only permanent interests."

CATL is a respectable competitor and a potential partner.

Their manufacturing experience and global footprint offer valuable lessons for us.

Our cutting-edge technology might also open up new avenues of thought for them. How exactly the negotiations will proceed, and to what extent, depends on the sincerity and leverage of both sides.

"Well said!"

Mr. Zhang, the general manager of the energy group, strolled over again at some point and happened to hear the second half of the story.

He smiled and clapped his hands in praise, saying, "A competitive and cooperative relationship is the key to a healthy market ecosystem. Young Xu, it's rare to find someone so young with such vision and insight!"
If Ningde tries to put on airs or sets overly harsh conditions, just tell Uncle Zhang that our domestic market is huge, and there are plenty of companies that support domestically developed core technologies!

This is already a fairly clear endorsement and support.

"Thank you very much, Uncle Zhang," Xu Yun said sincerely.

Lin Zhengyu chuckled inwardly. Now that he had the support of his own family and the Zhong family, it would be difficult for the people behind Ningde, this behemoth, to resist!
At the ensuing banquet, Xu Yun became almost the center of attention.

People kept coming over to toast and chat. Some were curious about the details of the battery, some were exploring the possibility of cooperation, and some simply wanted to get to know this suddenly rising young talent.

Xu Yun maintained her composure throughout, saying what needed to be said and keeping things to herself, neither overly enthusiastic nor cold and impolite, striking the perfect balance.

His profound understanding of technology, industry, and market, his clear grasp of business logic, and his unique judgment of future trends, which he revealed in his conversation, made many people who were originally just polite to him because of the Zhong family's reputation truly begin to look at him with new respect.

Although Grandpa Zhong was chatting with his old friends at the main table, his gaze kept glancing over here.

Seeing Xu Yun remain calm and composed amidst a crowd of elites, chatting and laughing, turning a birthday banquet into a stage to showcase his personal abilities and resources.

It even has a growing trend of becoming one of the focal points of the younger generation.

A barely perceptible smile appeared on the old man's serious face.

He picked up his teacup, took a small sip, and whispered to Zhong Jianguo beside him, "This kid has potential. Yan Yan has good taste; he'd definitely do well in politics."

Upon hearing his father's words, Zhong Jianguo could almost say that he had officially given his approval.

The banquet ended, and the guests gradually left.

Zhong Yanyan accompanied her grandfather and father to see the guests off, while Xu Yun, Lin Zhengyu, Zhong Lei, and others chatted idly in the courtyard.

Night had fallen, and the old house had returned to tranquility, with only the lanterns under the eaves emitting a warm glow.

"How does this setup feel today?" Lin Zhengyu asked Xu Yun with a smile, a cigarette dangling from his lips.

"Fortunately."

Xu Yun looked up at the starry sky and said calmly, "I don't feel anything."

"Yes, it's just the beginning."

Lin Zhengyu also stopped joking, his eyes sharp, and said, "The battery is just the first step."

Next, the industrial chain and ecosystem that form around it will be the real battleground.

Automobiles, energy storage, even aerospace... the possibilities are endless.

I can already smell the restless activity of global capital and giants.

Therefore, we must proceed with extreme caution.

Technological leadership is temporary; we must run fast enough and build sufficiently high barriers to entry. Production capacity, patents, supply chains, talent… every link is crucial.

"You can handle it yourself. I won't interfere in these matters."

Xu Yun patted him on the shoulder and said with a smile, "If you need me to do anything, just say the word."

Zhong Lei, who was listening nearby, couldn't help but interject: "Brother-in-law, Brother Lin, you guys are getting me all excited!"
If there's ever a need for fighting... oh no, I mean, for charging into battle, count me in! I have plenty of formidable guys among my comrades!

Xu Yun and Lin Zhengyu exchanged a smile.

At this moment, Zhong Yanyan walked over gracefully after seeing off the last group of guests.

The moonlight shone on her, her skirt fluttered slightly, and she looked almost unreal.

"What are you talking about?" She walked to Xu Yun's side and naturally took his arm.

"Let's talk about how to expand and strengthen your boyfriend's battery empire, then you'll be the queen of the empire," Lin Zhengyu said with a grin.

Zhong Yanyan glared at him but didn't refute him. She just looked up at Xu Yun, her eyes sparkling, and asked, "Are you tired?"

"Not tired."

Xu Yun shook his head, gripped her hand tightly in return, and said, "And you?"

"I'm very happy," Zhong Yanyan said softly, her tone gentler than ever before.

Seeing this, Lin Zhengyu and Zhong Lei wisely made an excuse to slip away, leaving the two of them alone.

The night breeze was cool and carried the fresh scent of grass and trees.

The two stood side by side in the quiet courtyard, with the faint, indistinct sounds of the city's hustle and bustle drifting from afar.

"You did a really good job today."

Zhong Yanyan couldn't help but chuckle softly, "It seems like everyone except Grandpa and Dad likes you very much."

"Of course."

Xu Yun pulled her into his arms, gently touching the top of her head with his chin, and said, "I can't let you lose face in front of our relatives, who will say you have no taste."

"Over in Ningde..."

Zhong Yanyan looked up with some concern and asked, "Won't it be troublesome? They're a powerful and well-established group, not as simple as they seem on the surface."

"There will definitely be troubles, but there are also opportunities."

Xu Yun's gaze was calm as he said, "The essence of business is exchange and competition."

We have the technological foresight they desperately need, and they have the manufacturing systems and market experience we currently require.

As long as a balance of interests can be found, a win-win situation is not impossible.

Of course, if you can't reach an agreement, then it's up to you both; your boyfriend isn't someone to be trifled with either.

The confidence and composure in his tone put Zhong Yanyan at ease.

She rested her head on his shoulder, closed her eyes, and then said something that surprised Xu Yun.

"Xu Yun, I think I'm pregnant." (End of Chapter)