This was essentially a transaction of mutual understanding, where both parties were aware of each other's desires but found it inappropriate to openly declare them.
Ye Qingping needed social stability and prosperity for the nation, while Qin Chuan sought tangible benefits to expand his business further.
It was a perfect and harmonious exchange where each got what they needed.
Qin Chuan's actions were far more astute than those of the Han Shifei brothers. In Ye Qingping's words, he was a cunning and shrewd businessman.
He never acted openly, instead orchestrating everything through meticulous planning, leaving others with the undeniable feeling that he was behind the trouble, yet unable to find any concrete evidence.
Furthermore, Qin Chuan's businesses were legitimate. He steered clear of gambling and usury, operating discreetly and embodying the principle of quietly amassing wealth.
"Boss, since those two sandfields are now ours, can we spread the word and let everyone participate in the construction of entertainment venues!" Bai Xiaoguang asked.
Qin Chuan nodded. "We can. If we want to gain actual control of those two sandfields, we must first show our commitment and demonstrate sufficient sincerity."
"I believe the government won't go back on its word."
"Then, boss, how should we proceed with these businesses like hotels, discotheques, and clubs?" Zheng Chengdao inquired.
This time, Qin Chuan fell silent. He had contemplated this question many times.
Should he follow the Han Shifei brothers' example, monopolize and control numerous discotheques, hotels, and clubs to earn exorbitant profits?
While this approach offered the highest returns, it also carried the greatest risks.
As everyone knew, hotels, discotheques, and clubs were breeding grounds for high-risk activities. Fights were commonplace, and any involvement in illicit activities or drug trafficking would be fatal.
Discovery would lead to legal repercussions, ranging from temporary closure and fines to imprisonment.
Dabbling in these industries meant entrusting half of one's safety to others, constantly facing danger and being susceptible to traps.
Although the government might not be overly stringent on crackdowns on prostitution in this era, with suggestive alleys prevalent on every street corner, stricter measures would inevitably be implemented in the coming years. Many would fall, losing their fortunes and future.
Having lived two lives, Qin Chuan was acutely aware of the risks associated with these businesses.
However, if he didn't venture into discotheques, clubs, and hotels, he wouldn't be able to justify it to his subordinates.
He understood the risks, but others did not.
Among the remaining businesses left by the Han Shifei brothers, only the two sandfields were essential. Other ventures like grain trading, gambling, and usury were forbidden.
If he were to also forgo discotheques, clubs, and hotels, it would be difficult to explain.
So many brothers followed him, all seeking sustenance and substantial wealth. Simply prohibiting everything would be untenable.
Finding a way to profit without incurring excessive risk became a perplexing challenge for Qin Chuan.
Could he only revert to the old way of collecting protection fees?
That would be akin to destroying his own reputation. Qin Chuan had repeatedly warned against his team engaging in such bad habits, as they were truly addictive.
The thrill of effortless gains could lead many astray, ultimately rendering them hopeless and further down a destructive path.
"Everyone, to be frank, I don't have much interest in the businesses of those external entertainment venues," Qin Chuan stated.
"Today's small meeting consists only of our core members. When danger arises, we can risk our lives for each other. Brothers like Ergou and Sanmao weren't summoned."
Qin Chuan continued, "I won't hide anything from you all. I truly have no interest in those entertainment venues."
"Firstly, my existing businesses are already numerous, and I don't have the energy to manage so many industries."
"Secondly, industries like discotheques, clubs, and hotels are inherently high-risk, prone to trouble and harboring corruption."
Qin Chuan's gaze swept across everyone present, carefully observing each person's expression.
He spoke the truth. In this era, discotheques, clubs, and even hotels often provided special services, with scantily clad women soliciting customers on the roadside.
Without these "special services," it was difficult to make money.
If a crackdown occurred, none would escape, making them high-risk industries.
"These kinds of businesses have always been something I deeply fear and avoid in my life. I never considered venturing into them."
"However, this is my personal opinion." Qin Chuan's tone was sincere.
"My brothers follow me, and they need to earn a living and make significant money. They are not like ordinary office workers with a fixed monthly salary, living a mediocre and uneventful life."
"With so many lucrative businesses left behind by the Han Shifei brothers, it would be a shame to abandon them and let others profit. I believe many would be unwilling to accept this."
"Collecting protection fees is something I absolutely forbid. Otherwise, what difference would there be between our team and the Han Shifei gang?"
"After much thought, I haven't found a perfect solution. Therefore, I will leave this problem to all of you."
"I do not intend to get involved in the business of entertainment venues. Having those two sandfields is enough for me."
"However, concerning discotheques, clubs, and hotels, if any of you wish to develop these, I will not prevent you from earning money. It can be considered a token of appreciation for your long-standing loyalty."
As Qin Chuan finished speaking, the expressions in the meeting room varied, and everyone furrowed their brows.
This was undoubtedly a significant matter. Qin Chuan's words were clear: he would not engage in those businesses, and whoever wished to do so was welcome.
"Boss, I'd like to do it, but I don't know how to run a business!" Yao Dong said, scratching his head in frustration.
Running discotheques, hotels, and clubs was definitely profitable, at least far more so than working for someone else.
In this era, everyone striving to succeed was doing so to earn more money and live a better life.
"Exactly, boss! Even if you present us with such a great opportunity, none of us really know our own capabilities. We're skilled at fighting and drinking, but when it comes to business, forget it!" Bai Xiaoguang grinned, a self-deprecating expression on his face.
"We'd probably lose our underwear!"
"More than just our underwear, I reckon these hundred-plus pounds of mine might disappear too!" Yao Dong added.
His remark elicited laughter from everyone, and Qin Chuan joined in. Suddenly, his gaze fell upon Zheng Chengdao's face, and he asked, "Brother Dao, what about you?"
Zheng Chengdao snapped back to attention. "Me? I'm too lazy to bother with that stuff."
"In this lifetime, as long as you don't abandon me, boss, this half-buried-in-the-ground body will follow you!"
"I believe you won't treat me unfairly!" Zheng Chengdao said with a smile, looking at Qin Chuan.