rs or qualified mine managers? Blasters and managers require specialized training. Additionally, are your loaders and excavators rented? Renting equipment incurs costs and reduces operational efficiency. Do you understand efficiency?” Mr. Shao surveyed the group, satisfied that everyone avoided eye contact, fearing they couldn't answer.

“Efficiency means comparing output, costs, and quality over the same time period. Never mind, explaining may be futile. Do you have anyone proficient in financial calculations?” Mr. Shao inquired.

“Headman Liu is knowledgeable! He's our village scholar, and currently serves as our accountant and headman,” Secretary Liu pulled Liu Peiyuan out from the crowd.

“What’s your educational background? Master's or Ph.D.? Studied abroad?” Under Mr. Shao’s intense scrutiny, Liu Peiyuan began to sweat.

“I... I barely finished elementary school, Mr. Shao,” Liu Peiyuan admitted, adjusting his reading glasses. The crowd burst into laughter.

“What major is ‘elementary school’?” Mr. Shao asked, confused. His secretary and assistant shook their heads.

“It means I only graduated elementary school,” Liu Peiyuan clarified. Even Mr. Shao couldn't help but chuckle.

“Mr. Shao, what should our next steps be?” Secretary Liu sought guidance.

“To boost production and cut costs, we must introduce the world’s most advanced mining equipment. To grow stronger, hiring highly educated professionals is essential. We should not only mine ores but also establish our own steel plant, creating an integrated production and sales system. We aim to go public internationally and enter the ranks of wealthy industrialists.” Mr. Shao’s excitement manifested in animated gestures.

“It hasn’t even started yet, and Mr. Shao’s already talking about taking our iron mine public!” Secretary Liu whispered to Headman Liu.

“Doesn’t sound right! Heard of livestock being sold, but never a whole factory,” Headman Liu remarked.

“Folks of East Village! A good business can’t run without funds. I’ll inject capital into your enterprise, revitalizing it. Within three years, I guarantee that East Village Steel will become the leader of China’s steel industry!” Mr. Shao declared, pounding his fist into his hand for emphasis.

“Mr. Shao, what about funding for West Village’s coal mine?” Secretary Liu pressed on his main concern.

“I’ll invest!” Mr. Shao’s straightforward response drew prolonged applause from the group.

The rest of the day was filled with toasts and increasing camaraderie. Secretary Mengqi delivered an impromptu toast, elevating the party mood to its peak. Even Headman Liu joined in, impressing Mr. Shao with anecdotes hinting at his potential as a salesman, to everyone’s amusement.

Midway through the revelry, Secretary Liu and Mr. Shao whispered confidentia

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