As Ling Li sat in her elegant office, a large glass window behind her offered a panoramic view of the bustling city below. The vibrant energy of the metropolis was a stark contrast to the focused calm that Ling exuded. Today was a pivotal day, and she had a crucial meeting with the head of RS Bijou to discuss the intricacies of the company's operations.

"Could you please explain your supply channels to me?" Ling Li asked, her tone professional yet warm as she addressed the RS Bijou employee sitting across from her. The young director of RS Bijou, Ren's right hand, a poised and diligent individual, met Ling Li's gaze with confidence.

"Our main supplier is The Axis. They provide us with the bulk of our raw materials," the director began, her voice steady and assured. "The rest of our materials come from Master Shi Min's mining company. In cases where we need to outsource materials, Master Shi Min's company handles it for us since they can acquire resources at a lower price and pass them on to RS Bijou at cost."

Ling Li nodded, impressed. She had always known Shi Min was a shrewd businessman, but his dedication to supporting her sister's company was truly admirable. 'It's good for them,' Ling Li thought, a small smile touching her lips.

"And what about the designs?" Ling Li inquired, her curiosity piqued.

"We have in-house designers in every outlet to cater to clients who want customized jewelry," the director explained. "At our main office, we also have designers who work on our display pieces. Miss Ren, in particular, often shares her own creative ideas with them."

Ling Li leaned forward, her interest evident. "We release seasonal and exclusive designs for the Asia Pacific, Europe, and America regions," the director continued. "Currently, Miss Ren wants to launch a new design for the winter collection that features cherry blossoms. Our designers are currently focusing on that theme."

"Alright," Ling Li said thoughtfully. "I want all designs submitted to me for approval. I'll be overseeing the company for the time being."

"Yes, Madam," the director replied with a respectful nod.

Ling Li's expression softened slightly. "If you have any immediate concerns, don't hesitate to contact me. Please don't disturb Ren or Lily. If you can't find me, call Mushu or Pharsa."

"I understand, Madam," the director said, his tone reflecting his respect for Ling Li's authority and consideration.

"Alright," Ling Li said, sitting back in her chair with a sense of finality. "Dismissed."

The director stood and left the office, leaving Ling Li to her thoughts. She glanced out the window once more, the city's skyline now tinged with the golden hues of the setting sun. She knew the road ahead was long and fraught with challenges, but she was ready to face it head-on, drawing strength from the determination and resilience that had always guided her.

That evening, as the family gathered for dinner, the atmosphere was a mix of warmth and underlying tension. The dining room, illuminated by a chandelier casting a soft golden glow, was filled with the clinking of cutlery and murmured conversations. Ling Li's mind, however, was racing with questions and concerns about the days ahead. She turned to Mushu, her voice a hushed whisper to avoid alarming the others.

"Mushu, have you found out anything about Dr. Gao?" she asked, her eyes searching his for answers.

Mushu nodded, his expression grim. "I've begun to dig into his background, Madam. Some discrepancies need further investigation."

Ling Li's eyes narrowed, her determination evident. "Keep me updated. We need to get to the bottom of this."

After a moment of silence, Ling Li turned her attention to Ren and Lily, who were engaged in a quiet conversation, their voices soft and intimate amidst the clinking of cutlery and the gentle hum of family chatter.

"Ren, Lily," Ling Li began, her voice cutting through the ambient noise with a tone that was both firm and gentle, "tomorrow, your brother and I are leaving for a while. We have something to do in Camp Phoenix." Her words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of the unknown.

Ren looked up, her delicate features etched with concern. "Mom, will you be gone for a long time?" she asked, her voice trembling slightly with the anxiety of uncertainty.

"We will be back before you know it," Ling Li replied, offering a reassuring smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. "You two take care of your little sisters. Also, don't forget that your Pap's parents are at the guest house."

"I know, Mom," Ren said, her voice steadying as she spoke. "The twins usually play with their grandparents in the afternoon. I will also send Reginald with Lily when Reginald is free since I'm only staying here at home."

Ling Li nodded approvingly, her expression softening with pride. "I know I can count on you," she praised, her voice filled with warmth and affection.

Turning to Lily, Ling Li's tone became more instructive. "Lily, don't disregard your studies. If the business has any concerns, Leeroy and Reginald can help you, too. Your gym will be on its way. Your brother has arranged for its construction."

Lily's face brightened at the mention of her gym, a spark of excitement lighting up her eyes. "Thanks, Mom. You have to come back immediately. The twins will definitely miss you and Paps," she said, her voice a mix of gratitude and concern.

Ling Li's expression softened even further as she reached out to gently touch Lily's hand, her fingers warm and reassuring. "I know; this is the first time we leave them behind. So, please look out for them," she implored, her voice carrying a maternal tenderness that spoke volumes.

"Don't worry, Mom, we know what to do. You and brother should take care," Lily assured her mother, squeezing her mother's hand in a gesture of solidarity and support.

The room fell into a contemplative silence, the weight of the upcoming journey pressing down on everyone like an invisible burden. The atmosphere was thick with unspoken fears and unvoiced hopes, each family member lost in their own thoughts.

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