Chapter 271: It's Nobody's Fault
Proposing a mining development plan of two billion Australian dollars was merely a general concept.
Alice assigned Tracy to fully manage the exploration project northwest of the Hamori Mountains, while moving Kent to oversee mine development.
The first step was to hire a well-known Australian mining design company, along with several other specialized companies to handle the design of railway lines, ports, power plants, desalination plants, beneficiation plants, ore-crushing facilities, and other necessary infrastructure.
Multiple projects commenced simultaneously, each initiating detailed design work.
The procedure for engineering construction was similar to mineral exploration: beginning with a feasibility study, progressing into detailed construction plans, budget preparations, and ultimately leading to actual construction. Railway construction, particularly, required preliminary and detailed surveys, including drilling to avoid caves and weak foundations.
Professionals were needed for professional tasks.
Of the previously raised one hundred million Australian dollars, more than thirty million had already been spent on the Qiqie mountain range exploration. Meanwhile, exploration costs in the Hamori mountains were well-controlled—due to Li Tang's clear instructions and limited operational scope—resulting in expenditures of about thirty to forty million Australian dollars.
The remaining funds were thus invested into the early-stage design for mining infrastructure. However, it was clear these funds would be insufficient.
Li Tang entrusted Alice and Kent to manage mine development, while Tracy oversaw exploration in the Hamori mountains. He Runqi, accompanied by a technical team from China, provided support, assisting dozens of Chinese workers.
Li Tang's immediate task—and the most pressing challenge—was raising the two billion Australian dollars. Knowing Western capital markets wouldn't easily trust them, Li Tang's only choice was to return to China. Recruiting domestic investment partners was clearly the quickest path to securing funds.
If that proved impossible, he'd have to generate the two billion Australian dollars independently. But how could anyone rapidly earn around ten billion RMB? This seemed unrealistic.
His first destination was Wukuang Group.
"Welcome home, hero!" Niu Fu, typically serious and stern-faced, greeted Li Tang warmly, smiling broadly for once.
"Mr. Niu, long time no see." Li Tang shook hands warmly, nodding to Ou Pingguo, Zhao Hepu, Qin Jianshe, and other familiar faces. These men were close allies within Wukuang Group, specially summoned by Niu Fu upon Li Tang's arrival.
"We just finished the Talege Copper-Gold Mine project and have been organizing documents lately. It's finally giving us a little breathing room," Qin Jianshe remarked. "But you've barely rested—first Mengguo, now Australia, non-stop."
Ou Pingguo added admiringly, "And you discovered a 1.2-billion-ton iron ore deposit! Everyone knows the Pilbara region's iron ore is renowned for its high quality."
Zhao Hepu, with his Buddha-like demeanor, laughed jovially, "You're truly conquering territories swiftly and decisively!"
"You've worked very hard," Niu Fu expressed his appreciation. "Now that you're back and the year-end is approaching, make sure you rest well. Young people have endless energy, but you must also watch your health."
Li Tang felt deeply touched by these familiar faces and warm words. But today's visit wasn't merely about catching up; it was about business. Without further ado, he handed them Lianying Mining's detailed two-billion-dollar development plan.
"Please have a look at Lianying Mining's future development goals."
"I've heard about it." Niu Fu skimmed the document briefly, already familiar with the content. "You're here to discuss funding, aren't you?"
They had privately discussed Lianying Mining's announced plan and understood its main obstacle: securing enormous capital.
"Yes," Li Tang admitted openly. "It's obviously beyond my personal capabilities."
"It's extremely difficult," Niu Fu sighed deeply.
Zhao Hepu, examining the plan closely, inquired, "Did the South Australian government approve mining licenses and land use?"
"The governor of South Australia has been very supportive. Approval isn't a problem," Li Tang assured them, knowing the approval process was proceeding smoothly.
"Impressive. It seems you've built excellent relationships in South Australia," Ou Pingguo praised.
"I met Governor Zachary twice. He's quite enthusiastic about our investment," Li Tang explained. Zachary seemed genuinely interested in development projects, regardless of any underlying personal motives. After making agreements, Zachary generally fulfilled his promises—though Li Tang, too, had delivered considerable investments.
"So, the only thing left is raising the two billion dollars?" Niu Fu confirmed.
"As long as the funding arrives, there won't be major obstacles," Li Tang replied confidently. Building the mine and producing iron ore posed little issue for him.
"We can't gather such a sum ourselves," Niu Fu lamented. Two billion Australian dollars equaled roughly ten billion RMB—a staggering amount. Even if Wukuang Group sold everything, they wouldn't reach this sum.
"I was thinking about securing part of the funds through bank loans," Li Tang proposed.
"Loans are possible, but raising the entire amount is nearly impossible," Niu Fu admitted. "Securing around one billion RMB is feasible, but ten billion? Extremely challenging."
"The main issue is that it's an overseas project, with uncontrollable risks," Zhao Hepu explained. "Banks prioritize recovering principal over interest."
"Even a partial loan would help," Li Tang said calmly, anticipating this difficulty. "Steel companies benefit most from iron ore production. Perhaps we should approach them."
"The steel industry is extremely profitable right now," Zhao Hepu smiled. "Steel enterprises certainly have cash."
"Imported iron ore costs around thirty US dollars per ton—much cheaper than domestic ore," Ou Pingguo shook his head skeptically. "Many steel companies own mines, but they prefer importing due to cost savings. Persuading them to invest heavily is tough."
"Though iron ore prices have slightly risen recently, mining profits remain thin."
"The biggest concern remains that the project is overseas, outside direct regulatory control," someone pointed out frankly. "Companies won't willingly risk large sums overseas. They might help you personally, but only modestly."
"Regarding international mergers and overseas projects involving significant capital outflows, the government is cautious," another remarked candidly. "Large-scale foreign investments aren't explicitly opposed but aren't actively encouraged either."
Their comments sounded pessimistic, yet accurately reflected market realities. Though blunt, these were sincere observations. Li Tang wasn't upset; he listened patiently, shrugging with determination afterward. "I understand this is difficult, but we must confront these challenges directly."
His confidence never wavered. He knew that soon everyone would recognize the immense profits iron ore could yield. After leaving a copy of the mining development plan, Li Tang returned to Yunding Tower.
Dai Yingchi currently managed the company effectively. Besides Dai, Zhou Zhihan occasionally visited as well.
"Old Zhou comes by frequently, offering valuable advice, especially on financial management," Dai Yingchi said, shutting the office door. "I don't know his relationship with you, but if possible, I recommend hiring him back as a financial consultant."
Li Tang glanced through the glass wall, spotting Zhou Zhihan strolling leisurely. "He's retired several years now; he might prefer enjoying retirement rather than returning to work."
"Based on recent interactions, I believe Zhou can't sit idle," Dai suggested.
"You think it's necessary?"
"He advised that despite our small staff, our mining rights and large financial flows necessitate stricter financial supervision," Dai explained cautiously. "He implied we need an oversight department reporting directly to you."
"Trusting our management team makes oversight unnecessary," Li Tang initially resisted. He trusted the key managers, especially Dai Yingchi, known since their university days as principled and responsible individuals.
Dai persisted gently, "Currently, we have trusted staff, but as we expand into hundreds or thousands of employees, we'll inevitably encounter dishonest people. Establishing a supervision department proactively prevents corruption."
"You're right. Prevention is essential," Li Tang thoughtfully agreed.
Dai gestured outside, "I believe Zhou cares deeply about your interests. Why not let him oversee occasional audits?"
Seeing Dai's hesitation, Li Tang smiled knowingly, "Curious about our relationship?"
"I don't pry into personal affairs," Dai diplomatically replied.
"He's Li Xinqi's grandfather," Li Tang disclosed openly.
"Oh," Dai realized instantly. "No wonder he's so devoted to your interests."
"What else has he done recently?" Li Tang asked curiously.
"Mainly offering practical advice, focusing heavily on protecting your interests," Dai said frankly.
"My interests align with all employees'," Li Tang replied righteously.
"You're correct," Dai agreed, confirming, "So, do you approve of this?"
"I'll discuss it personally with Zhou."
Li Tang stepped outside.
"I thought I saw you earlier. Old eyes aren't so good anymore," Zhou Zhihan greeted warmly. "Locked yourself away since returning? Any trouble?"
"No trouble at all," Li Tang smiled warmly. "Must've just been the wind shutting the door."
Li Tang quickly took hold of Zhou Zhihan's arm, smiling warmly. "Come, let's head to my office. I've hidden away a special tin of fine tea, just for you!"
"No need to support me, my legs are still strong," Zhou Zhihan replied straightforwardly, walking briskly into the office.
After preparing the tea, each of them picked up their cups and took a sip.
"Director Zhou…"
"You call me Grandpa, just like Qiqi, or you call me Old Zhou," Zhou Zhihan interrupted, drinking his tea. He showed his dissatisfaction with being addressed formally.
"Grandpa…"
"Yes." Zhou Zhihan smiled contentedly.
Li Tang still felt somewhat awkward calling him Grandpa, so he quickly moved on. "I heard from Director Dai that you've been helping us a lot lately."
"It's nothing," Zhou Zhihan set down his tea. "Your company management is too loose. Fortunately, the staff numbers are few, and the executives are all close friends of yours. In my view, your enterprise isn't much different from a family-run business."
"That's true." Li Tang agreed. "Right now, the company indeed needs someone with extensive experience to come in and tighten things up…"
"Tighten things up? You think you're an emperor managing a court?" Zhou Zhihan scoffed jokingly. "Don't mistake me for a eunuch who worries more than the emperor himself."
"I wouldn't dare!" Li Tang immediately denied it, "It's just an analogy, please don't take it seriously."
"I'm joking with you. Don't be nervous; we're just chatting."
"The company management structure indeed needs a professional to set things up properly." Li Tang looked hopefully at Zhou Zhihan, smiling brightly. "Would you be interested in coming out of retirement to help guide me a bit?"
"At my age, I can't handle too much work. Strolling around, playing chess with old friends—this leisurely life suits me." Zhou Zhihan gazed out into the office area. "Coming here occasionally is fine, but if you expect me to punch the clock daily, I probably couldn't manage."
"You don't have to come every day. Just drop by whenever you feel like it." Li Tang chuckled softly. "If you like, bring your birdcage and hang it on that money tree next to my window."
"Bringing a birdcage here would ruin your company's culture!" Zhou shook his head emphatically. "That won't do."
"Our company does lack oversight. I'd feel reassured if you came in occasionally to watch over things."
"So, you're just missing a security guard?"
"I wouldn't dare consider you just a security guard!"
"To be honest, if you offered me a security guard job, I'd gladly accept," Zhou Zhihan said with a playful expression.
"Fine, even as a security guard, we'll pay you the salary of a department head." Li Tang laughed easily.
"If it wasn't because I admire your capabilities, I wouldn't trouble myself with all this," Zhou pointed at Li Tang, eyes twinkling. "As your business grows, don't disappoint my granddaughter!"
"I'm just too busy, but rest assured, I promise you I won't let her down!" Li Tang quickly swore.
Zhou Zhihan smiled warmly, adding, "I heard that since you're back, Qiqi went personally to the market to pick fresh ribs. She's making her specialty, braised pork ribs. Come home tonight for dinner. Even I rarely get this special treat."
"Of course!" Li Tang eagerly accepted the invitation.
Dai Yingchi soon prepared the rehiring contract for Zhou Zhihan. During Li Tang's time abroad, Zhou had already become quite familiar with the company employees, finding common ground with these young people.
Driving to Li Xinqi's home, Li Tang was already familiar with the way. Entering, he immediately spotted a busy figure in the kitchen.
As he approached, the delicious aroma of cooked meat wafted towards him. "Are you really cooking yourself? Do you even know how?"
"I'm quite skilled at this!" Li Xinqi turned around, revealing a sweet smile. "Did you eat braised pork ribs in Australia?"
"Not many pork ribs, mostly steak," Li Tang replied, watching her skillful movements while standing nearby, hands on hips.
Aside from the pork ribs, the other dishes were prepared by the family's hired help. The table was soon full of beautifully prepared dishes.
"Grandpa isn't joining us?" Li Tang noticed there weren't many people around.
"They live separately. Tonight's just us—a casual family dinner," Li Xingchao explained warmly, treating Li Tang like family without any formality.
"That's typical of families," Zhou Muyun sighed lightly, picking at her food slowly. "Living in the same city yet rarely gathering for a simple meal together."
"Try my ribs!" Li Xinqi eagerly placed a portion of the dish into Li Tang's bowl, watching expectantly as he tasted it.
"Delicious!" Li Tang genuinely praised the dish, giving her a thumbs-up.
"See? I told you!" Li Xinqi immediately brightened with happiness.
They chatted casually over dinner, discussing Li Tang's experiences in Australia. Afterward, Li Xingchao invited Li Tang to drink tea privately.
Li Tang hadn't mentioned business at dinner, but now seemed like a suitable moment. "Lianying Mining is planning iron ore extraction," he said, handing Li Xingchao a copy of the project proposal he brought.
"Still talking business after work hours?" Li Xingchao looked slightly reproachful but still accepted the proposal, glancing through it briefly. "You really think iron ore has such bright prospects?"
"I want the mine operational as soon as possible," Li Tang replied earnestly. He knew that once the mine began producing, significant profits would quickly follow, resolving their funding issues.
"You've discussed this with Mr. Niu already?" Li Xingchao asked seriously.
"Yes. They expressed support but felt raising such a large sum would be difficult."
"I agree with Mr. Niu's assessment," Li Xingchao set down the document. "You want to take one hundred billion yuan from within China to invest abroad. Apart from risk considerations, ethically and morally, it won't sit well with others."
"What's ethics and morals got to do with it?" Li Tang objected.
"With that kind of money, domestic investments would boost local economies and create thousands of jobs," Li Xingchao explained patiently. "I fully support you, or I wouldn't have invested in Lianying Mining in the first place. But such a large overseas investment inevitably invites criticism. The government is encouraging foreign investment here, yet we'd be taking huge sums to a developed country. People might misunderstand our intentions."
"I'm simply doing business," Li Tang admitted that Li Xingchao had a point but felt it unfair. "Moreover, the iron ore we produce will benefit China's industries directly."
"Take it slow," Li Xingchao patted Li Tang's shoulder gently. "You've been rushing around the world; it's time you took a break. Focus on existing projects first. If you stretch yourself too thin, you'll end up overwhelmed."
"I can delay other projects, but I truly want to get the iron ore project started."
"The iron ore market isn't good right now. Why so fixated?"
"Perhaps I'm just impatient," Li Tang sighed.
"You're too young to be sighing so heavily," Li Xingchao lifted his tea cup. "Life isn't just about work. You need to learn to enjoy yourself. Even if you make a fortune, what's the point without time to spend it?"
"You're right," Li Tang conceded, understanding their perspectives differed due to their positions. He took a quiet sip of tea.
"What's going on? Why the serious faces?" Li Xinqi reached over and took Li Tang's hand.
"This boy's mind is full of work. I scolded him a bit, so now he's sulking," Li Xingchao laughed lightly. "Go take a walk together; no need to accompany this old man."
"I'm not sulking," Li Tang smiled softly. "I'm actually quite happy."
"Alright, I see right through you," Li Xingchao chuckled. "Go for a walk and relax. You're far too tense."
Walking in the community gardens, Li Xinqi naturally took Li Tang's hand. "I was planning that if you were still in Australia around New Year, I'd take leave and join you."
"I'd love that," Li Tang looked down at her fondly, "but I might be too busy to spend all day with you."
"You've been gone so long. Did you miss me?"
"I…" Li Tang blushed slightly.
"I missed you terribly!" Li Xinqi admitted openly before he could speak.
"Me too," Li Tang replied softly.
Suddenly, she halted, pulling Li Tang to a stop. He turned to face her, the streetlight casting a golden glow over her smiling face. She quickly wrapped her arms around his neck, standing on tiptoe, and planted a firm, passionate kiss on his cheek—a symbolic gesture of commitment.
Leaving Li Xinqi's home later, Li Tang contemplated deeply. Despite their moment of intimacy, he still couldn't shake thoughts of the daunting two-billion-dollar funding challenge.
After hearing from both Niu Fu and Li Xingchao, he was discouraged about securing sufficient domestic funding. Perhaps Alice's suggestion of exploring opportunities in America deserved attention.
Without hesitation, he called Alice, informing her he'd leave for America the next day.
After more than twenty hours of traveling, he finally landed in Phoenix, Arizona. Alice couldn't meet him immediately, but Cristos drove personally to the airport at her request.
Li Tang didn't expect Cristos to meet him personally. The first time they met had ended awkwardly. Even now, Cristos appeared cold and distant, barely speaking as he drove Li Tang toward the hotel.
Sitting quietly in the backseat, Li Tang felt anxious. "Alice is safe and doing well at work. Everyone respects her greatly," he cautiously remarked.
Cristos remained silent, making Li Tang realize that seeking his help might prove difficult.
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