Chapter 376: Cocktail Party
"Li Tang!"
A familiar voice rang out from the crowd.
"Lu Heshuo!" Li Tang recognized him immediately.
To Li Tang, the man standing before him wasn't just someone he hadn't seen in seven years—it had been almost thirty years. Nevertheless, the face was engraved in his memory, as Lu Heshuo was one of his three university roommates.
"Weren't you studying for your PhD in the United States?" Li Tang asked. He'd traveled several times to America, but due to distance and tight schedules, he never had the opportunity to visit Lu.
"After I finished my PhD, I stayed on in the US for some postdoctoral research. When our alma mater launched a program to attract talent, I decided to come back. I've been back for a while now, but with setting up a new home and adjusting to a new job, I've been pretty busy and didn't have time to catch up with you guys."
Lu Heshuo wore glasses and had a scholarly, fair complexion. Back in university, he'd been the hardest-working student in the class, constantly found in study halls or the library. Except for class hours and meals, he was practically invisible. His diligent work ethic had earned him scholarships year after year, consistently placing him at the top of his class. It was no surprise when, after graduation, he smoothly moved on to advanced studies in the US under a renowned international scholar.
"I actually heard early on that you started a business with He Runqi and the class monitor, and it was doing exceptionally well right from the beginning. Over the past couple of years, it went beyond hearsay—I began seeing your names frequently in newspapers and media." Lu smiled warmly as he looked at Li Tang, He Runqi, and Dai Yingchi, showing no awkwardness or jealousy, only genuine admiration. "Especially you, Li Tang. Every day, your name's practically on television."
"It seems our names have been appearing so often it's becoming annoying," Li Tang joked lightly.
"After returning to the university, whenever I chat with professors Chen Jinan or Zhang Zhongyu, they always bring up your remarkable experiences," Lu continued cheerfully. "Life is short, and seeing you guys live so brilliantly truly makes me happy. By the way, our new campus library still prominently displays your names and pictures—it says clearly that you all donated it."
"Li Tang's been at the top of the national rich list for a while now. I even saw someone telling your story on TV and releasing your biography—I even bought a copy!" another classmate chimed in.
"A biography?" Li Tang was puzzled. "I never published one."
"Well, then someone must have written one for you. Anyway, it's selling really well."
"My story's gotten boring by now. Let's talk about you guys instead," Li Tang laughed, gesturing everyone to sit down, cracking sunflower seeds as he listened.
Some classmates had stable jobs in public institutions or government offices, others worked in corporations, and a few had successfully started their own small businesses. Everyone was striving forward on their individual paths, experiencing gains and losses, tasting the bittersweet flavors of life.
Life was their own, filled sometimes with frustrations, but always full of hope for the future. They sincerely congratulated and admired the success of Li Tang, He Runqi, and Dai Yingchi, yet none felt particularly disheartened about their own circumstances. A simple bed, a dinner table, a home—whether wealthy or poor, happiness was woven into their lives.
They enthusiastically shared their experiences after stepping into society, along with personal reflections on life. Engrossed in conversation, no one bothered sleeping that night. Well past midnight, they enthusiastically rushed to pick up the bride and held a grand wedding ceremony at the hotel.
Being mostly outstanding academic achievers—with half holding master's or doctoral degrees—their tolerance for alcohol wasn't particularly impressive. Yet, since it was a rare reunion, nobody refused the toasts offered. After drinking through the afternoon, many classmates ended up heavily intoxicated.
Several classmates originally planned to head back home right after the wedding, but due to severe hangovers, they ended up staying at the hotel in the county town for three extra days.
Li Tang insisted Dai Yingchi take additional vacation days, then returned to Yanjing with He Runqi and others.
As soon as Li Tang arrived at his office door, he noticed an elderly man with white hair standing quietly nearby.
"Director Lü?" Li Tang paused momentarily, then recalled the elderly gentleman—Lü Fengnian, an esteemed senior expert and director at the Metallurgical Research Institute of the Nonferrous Metals Research Academy. Li Tang had once cooperated closely with him on bio-hydrometallurgical copper extraction technology during his tenure at Wu Mining Group.
"Li Tang, remember me?" Another elderly man beside Director Lü waved gently, having initially been overlooked.
Li Tang turned and immediately smiled, "Chairman Liu!"
This elder was also an acquaintance—Liu Yikang, Chairman of the Mining Association. When Zhongcheng Mining was first established, Chairman Liu had generously provided support, speaking highly of Li Tang's efforts to other mining companies.
"I thought you'd forgotten about me," Liu smiled gently.
"Impossible." Li Tang quickly explained, having initially overlooked Liu due to Lü Fengnian's eye-catching white hair. "Please come inside for some tea."
As his assistant, Gao Jingjing, opened the office door, Li Tang warmly invited the two elders inside.
"Wonderful tea!" Chairman Liu had experienced many fine teas, quickly recognizing the excellent quality.
"I don't really know much about tea myself, but if you both like it, please take some home. We have plenty here," Li Tang politely offered.
"That wouldn't be proper," Lü Fengnian modestly declined.
Li Tang didn't push the matter further. Clearly, these respected seniors hadn't visited just for tea. Setting his cup aside, he asked directly, "Chairman Liu, Director Lü, is there something I can help you with today?"
"You're now a major entrepreneur, the pioneer and leader of our national industrial economy, bearing countless responsibilities. When industry insiders discuss how to break free from foreign control over key resources, everyone agrees you're the most qualified to lead us towards that goal!" Chairman Liu generously praised.
Li Tang waved off the flattering words humbly, "Chairman Liu, please don't exaggerate. When it comes to solving resource issues for our industrial system, you and the Mining Association's leaders are the true key figures. The rapid economic growth and sufficient resource supply we currently enjoy clearly reflect your effective leadership."
"These aren't just my own praises—it's the general consensus!" Chairman Liu laughed pleasantly, savoring his tea leisurely.
Lü Fengnian adjusted his glasses thoughtfully before speaking up. "Chairman Liu and I came here representing the Mining Association, the Nonferrous Metals Association, and numerous mining enterprises and geological institutes, to deliver an invitation to you."
At his signal, an assistant promptly handed Li Tang a beautifully crafted, gold-bordered invitation card.
"What major event is this?" Li Tang glanced curiously at the invitation, which prominently displayed four large words: Mining Conference.
"Organized by the Mining Association, starting next year, we're initiating a major Mining Conference domestically. We'll gather representatives from resource exploration companies, geological institutions, and individual outstanding professionals to exchange ideas and jointly promote sustainable exploration and development practices," Chairman Liu explained earnestly. "Canada and Australia—countries with highly developed mining sectors—hold prestigious annual mining conferences. We believe such initiatives can significantly advance our exploration and development efforts. The state has increased funding for geological exploration starting this year, and our associations need to assume leadership roles."
"So, what do you need from me exactly?" Li Tang asked, slightly puzzled.
"Firstly, we aim to establish our domestic mining conference as one of the world's top three mining industry events. During these conferences, we intend to attract substantial investment into our mineral sector, highlight our exploration successes globally, and draw international attention," Chairman Liu outlined their vision.
Lü Fengnian met Li Tang's gaze meaningfully. "Each year, the conference will select and honor the 'Top Ten Mineral Discoveries.' At our first event early next year, we'll announce and honor these groundbreaking discoveries. We've assembled a team of top national experts in geology, geophysics, and geochemistry to review recent major mineral discoveries thoroughly."
He paused briefly, emphasizing clearly: "Discoveries like Qinglong Copper Mine, Qulong Copper Mine, Shazhai Molybdenum Mine, Yunshang Bauxite Mine—these major domestic finds—as well as notable international discoveries led by domestic teams, such as the Pebble Project, Simandou Iron Mine, and Talego Copper-Gold Project, have all been extensively analyzed. Practically every single one could individually qualify for the inaugural Top Ten Discoveries. And you're essentially the discoverer behind every single project mentioned."
"It seems I might monopolize the entire Top Ten Discoveries list," Li Tang joked lightly, unable to suppress his amused smile.
It wasn't pride or arrogance, but a knowing smile.
"If we put all your projects on stage, it's certainly possible, but it would lack a bit of competition," Lü Fengnian laughed softly along with Li Tang.
Liu Yikang pondered briefly before saying, "The Top Ten Mineral Discoveries awards are intended mainly for encouragement. Each one of your discoveries is exceptional on a global scale. Projects like Talego Copper-Gold Mine and Qinglong Copper Mine deserve recognition even within the entire history of mining! You're undoubtedly a top achiever in this field—in fact, you're something of a legend in mineral exploration."
Looking at Li Tang with an affable smile, he continued, "Honestly, I think there's no need for you to compete against those coming after you. You don't need any awards to prove your greatness. But we have many dedicated geologists who spent their entire lives diligently working in mountains and forests, living like solitary wanderers unknown to the public. An award recognizing their achievements could validate a lifetime of their hard work!"
"Well said, Chairman Liu!" Li Tang agreed readily, truly feeling he had no need to compete for such an honor.
In the global mining exploration community, who didn't already know Li Tang's name?
There wasn't any award prestigious enough for him anymore.
"Regarding your discoveries, we plan to publish special biographies or even grant a Lifetime Achievement Award." Seeing Li Tang had no objection, Lü Fengnian smoothly transitioned to his next topic: "Selecting these awards will require the most authoritative experts in the field. Li Tang, I know you're extremely busy, but when the time comes, we'd love for you to join as a judge. You could also share your experiences or technical insights with our country's exploration professionals."
"When exactly is it?" Li Tang asked.
"The award ceremony is scheduled around March next year, but the selection process will likely start sooner."
"If I'm in Yanjing at the time, I'll definitely be there!" Li Tang genuinely welcomed the chance to participate.
"Thank you for your outstanding contributions to our national mineral exploration!"
…
There were still several months until next March, so Li Tang wasn't in a hurry to prepare. Shortly afterward, he received a phone call from Batista and promptly flew to the former capital of Brazil.
Queen's Hotel.
The Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan from Canada, having observed Brazil's rapidly emerging economy and the enormous opportunities hidden within it, sought a share in this promising market. They organized an exclusive cocktail party, inviting renowned figures from Brazil's political and business elite.
Originally, Li Tang had not been invited, but Batista had personally called him, extending a special invitation.
During their previous meeting in Hong Kong, Batista had grown fond of Li Tang and was impressed by his strong desire and humble attitude toward collaboration.
Batista had repeatedly stated publicly that he aimed to become the richest man in the world. As a seasoned businessman in the mining industry, his pathway to achieving that ambition naturally lay along the lucrative avenue of mining.
Currently, the world's most successful person in mining was undoubtedly Li Tang. Gaining Li Tang's support, even just leveraging his global influence in the mining industry, would significantly boost Batista's business prospects.
"My brother!" Batista was impeccably dressed, accompanied by two stunning models, perfectly embodying the saying, "A gentleman's presence commands respect, adorned in fine silk and furs."
With a cocktail in hand, Batista mingled effortlessly, exuding charm. Upon seeing Li Tang arrive, he quickly abandoned his other conversations and approached enthusiastically. "My most important and honored guest, you're finally here!"
Li Tang had brought only a few assistants with him and was purely here as an observer.
"An upper-class gathering, indeed," Li Tang murmured softly. After presenting his invitation at the entrance, he walked in just as Batista approached.
"Batista, what's the occasion behind this cocktail party?"
"It's hosted by a major financial group from Canada," Batista replied, promptly guiding Li Tang toward several unfamiliar faces and pointing to a middle-aged man with a neatly groomed beard. "This is Mr. Wiggins, Chairman of the Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan, controlling tens of billions of dollars."
"Ontario?" Li Tang asked curiously, examining the bearded middle-aged man.
"Hello, Li. I've heard your name many times," Wiggins said with a professional smile. "I know recently you sold a gold mine in Australia to Barrick Gold Corporation for 250 million USD."
"That's correct," Li Tang acknowledged, smiling politely.
"Our Teachers' Pension Plan is not only a shareholder of Barrick Gold but also holds shares in Alcan Group, with a seat on their board of directors," Wiggins declared proudly, clearly intending to overshadow Li Tang's fame.
"Impressive!" Li Tang responded courteously. "What's the aim behind today's cocktail party?"
"Mr. Wiggins plans to invest in our Brazilian stock market, specifically considering a stake in our MX Mining Corporation," Batista explained, having overheard the sum Li Tang recently received from his gold mine sale. With two potential investors present, he immediately began discussing his ambitious future plans openly.
"We recently founded GX Oil Corporation, an extremely promising venture. Petrobras recently discovered an offshore oil field with estimated reserves of 8 billion barrels. They plan to auction its extraction rights, dividing it into 21 sectors. Our company intends to participate in this auction and successfully acquire extraction rights!"
Batista was exhilarated discussing his grand strategy. "Once this oilfield begins production, daily output could exceed 100,000 barrels! Within five years, GX Oil Corporation will unquestionably become one of the greatest oil and gas enterprises globally!"
Li Tang had heard Batista speak of these plans previously, so he wasn't surprised.
Initially, Wiggins had intended to invest in Batista's MX Mining, primarily for iron ore projects. But Batista's more expansive plans caught his attention.
"Does Brazil allow private companies to obtain oil exploration and extraction rights?" Li Tang asked.
"Previously, no. But now, with the establishment of GX Oil Corporation, everything is possible!" Batista answered cryptically, indicating toward a distinguished guest nearby. "You see over there? Our Minister of Energy himself accepted my invitation to this cocktail party. With him here, what can't be achieved?"
"What help would you require from us?" Wiggins inquired eagerly, obviously interested in oil investments.
"The auction for extraction rights will likely require between 1 to 1.5 billion USD," Batista said, glancing toward the Minister of Energy, currently chatting intimately with several elegant ladies, one draped casually around his ample waist. "This is business, but also a negotiation. Without sufficient capital, it simply won't work," Batista added discreetly.
"The oil business always involves negotiations and potential conflicts. I fully understand," Wiggins acknowledged, clearly stating his interest. "Reserve an investment seat for our Teachers' Pension Plan in GX Oil!"
"You're most welcome to join!" Batista nodded with satisfaction, turning to Li Tang. "What about you, Li? I heard you recently earned 250 million USD. Would you like to join us and become even wealthier?"
"Certainly," Li Tang replied calmly.
"I will become the richest man in the world," Batista proclaimed proudly and pointed confidently at Li Tang's chest. "And you, you'll be the second richest!"
"He just spent over 1 billion USD buying Alcan Group's stock," Wiggins abruptly disclosed, spoiling Batista's enthusiastic narrative. "It seems he might not have much spare capital left to invest in GX Oil Corporation."
"You invested over 1 billion USD in Alcan Group? Over 1 billion USD?" Batista seemed stunned. "Doesn't our oil venture offer better investment potential?"
"Absolutely, it has great potential," Li Tang assured with a composed smile. "I still have available capital, Mr. Batista."
In reality, Li Tang's funds were already nearly depleted. However, at this juncture, it was necessary to maintain appearances and speak confidently.
As the cocktail party progressed, mingling became less formal, and an air of flirtation lingered throughout. Many men quickly grew intimately friendly with beautiful models present.
Several attractive women approached Li Tang to toast and initiate conversations, yet they were swiftly discouraged by his cold demeanor.
Although Li Tang hadn't explicitly confirmed any investment intentions, Batista still eagerly invited him out early the next morning for a yacht cruise beneath a perfect, sunny sky.
Aboard the luxurious yacht were dozens of stunning bikini-clad models. Other than crew members, Batista and Li Tang were the only men present.
Sailing smoothly into open waters, the Brazilian summer weather was transitioning from warm to hot, providing an ideal environment for swimming.
Batista enthusiastically grasped the curvaceous hips of two gorgeous models and plunged into the sea. Moments later, emerging from the waves with his hair dripping wet and a huge grin, he shouted cheerfully, "Li, aside from these two ladies in the water, all the women onboard today are yours!"
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