Chapter 160: The Seductive Succubus Queen's Temptation—Hands Off My Man! (2)
As the president of the Sam Commerce Guild, with a deep-rooted background in fine wines, he could tell this wasn't an ordinary drink. Though "Drunken Dreams" appeared to be a light liquor, its layered complexity and mesmerizing effects made it a masterpiece.
Missing the chance to secure this product would mean falling far behind in the market.
Riley wasn't the only one captivated by the allure of "Drunken Dreams."
Cynil, owner of the renowned Saint Marta Winery, initially paid little attention to the new wine. After all, Saint Marta was a world-famous name, and while other places might have master winemakers, none could rival the sheer number and expertise her winery boasted.
But one taste of "Drunken Dreams" shattered her arrogance. She realized she had underestimated this creation.
The brewing technique used in this wine was unlike any known method in existence. It was revolutionary, a game-changer in the wine industry. If another entity secured the rights to this masterpiece, it could have devastating consequences for Saint Marta's dominance.
Without hesitation, Cynil summoned Ramanca.
"Aunt, I'm entrusting you with this critical task!" Cynil said, her tone grave.
Ramanca, Cynil's aunt, was a pillar of the Saint Marta family's older generation. Unlike the others who focused solely on winemaking, Ramanca excelled as a business strategist with impeccable negotiation skills.
This wasn't an isolated incident. Across various wineries and commerce guilds, "Drunken Dreams" made waves. Even factions that hadn't received samples had heard whispers of its legendary qualities.
Rumors of a new brewing technique producing a wine named "Drunken Dreams" circulated widely. It was said that drinking it felt like ascending to the heavens.
As the rumors spread, they grew increasingly exaggerated, reaching mythical proportions. Seasoned veterans of the business world dismissed the more outlandish claims, but the name "Drunken Dreams" had already gained traction.
Invitation letters poured into Ella's mailbox like a snowstorm. Since Shia resided within the confines of Seven Shields Academy, where access was restricted, contacting Ella was their only viable option.
But no one dared to take advantage of the seemingly gentle widow. Nor could anyone bypass Ella to reach Shia.
When Ella presented the pile of invitations to Shia, her gaze was filled with curiosity.
Initially, she had seen Shia merely as her student's fiancé, then as the audacious little troublemaker who liked to tease her, a lonely widow. But later, she discovered his brilliance—becoming the top-ranked freshman and even proposing a way to resurrect the dead.
Every time she thought he had reached his peak, he proved her wrong, growing even more remarkable.
Ella rested her chin on her hand, her elbow propped on her knee as she quietly observed Shia's focused expression.
Shia sifted through the stack of invitations, sorting them meticulously. Small guilds or lesser-known wineries didn't even warrant a glance from him. Only opportunities with the potential for significant impact caught his attention.
After examining each invitation, most ended up in a pile to his left. Only four made it to his right.
Finally, either satisfied or influenced by his deliberation, Ella leaned closer, unable to suppress her curiosity.
"What are you looking for?"
"I'm selecting wineries and guilds for potential collaboration," Shia replied without lifting his head, continuing to sort.
"You should've said so earlier." Ella playfully rolled her eyes at him, then casually picked two more invitations from the pile.
She placed a total of six invitations before him. "These are from the more influential guilds and wineries.
"These four are relatively weaker in market share but might offer better terms to secure collaboration," she explained, flashing him a soft smile.
Shia's eyes, however, focused on two particular invitations bearing gold-embossed signatures: the Sam Commerce Guild and Saint Marta Winery.
"These two," he said decisively. "Arrange for them to visit together. I have complete confidence in my work. We won't lose out."
Besides, Shia had other plans in mind.
Ella, though slightly surprised, followed his instructions.
When the representatives of the Sam Commerce Guild and Saint Marta Winery arrived at Ella's home, they immediately noticed each other, exchanging appraising glances.
As it turned out, the two organizations already had existing partnerships and were somewhat acquainted.
"President Riley, I didn't expect to see you here personally," Ramanca greeted, brushing a hand through her hair. Her elegant figure was accentuated by a form-fitting gown that showcased her graceful curves.
Her long hair was tied up with three elegant hairpins, and her slit dress, cut high up to her thighs, swayed lightly as she walked, revealing her slender legs wrapped in sheer black stockings.
Riley, now in his middle age, epitomized the image of a mature man. He cast a fleeting glance at Ramanca, a tall and striking woman with an aura of authority wrapped in her black stockings. Without much acknowledgment, he merely nodded in greeting, his attitude laced with disinterest.
Hmph, beauty tricks? Those are for childish games.
In the real business world, it's all about maximizing benefits. Appearance alone was worthless. Without enough bargaining chips, what could she bring to the table? Competing with someone like her? He had already won.
His confidence only grew when Ella greeted them at the door.
Using beauty in front of women? Useless.
Ella led them inside without much fanfare.
However, when both of them entered the meeting room and saw Shia's appearance, Riley's confidence took a nosedive. His intestines twisted in regret.
What a blunder!
Had he known, he would have brought the vice president along.
Shia, with his aristocratic and graceful demeanor, was the epitome of youthful charm. How could a young man like that not be swayed by a gorgeous older sister type?
Game over.
The Saint Marta Winery clearly knew how to play their cards.
What chance did a middle-aged man like him stand? None. It was painfully evident.
Ramanca, upon seeing Shia, was briefly stunned but quickly adjusted her posture, puffing out her chest confidently. Her walk became even more graceful, her movements deliberately enticing.
When the two sat across from Shia, Ramanca offered a warm and poised smile, her demeanor exuding charm.
Meanwhile, Riley sat slumped, feeling as deflated as a wilted eggplant. The error in strategy would undoubtedly doom this negotiation.
Ramanca, on the other hand, was filled with confidence, already envisioning her impending success.