The sun rose slowly over Suwon, washing the city in pale gold. Phoenix's headquarters hummed with quiet activity. Staff moved efficiently, security teams rotated through checkpoints, and the glow of neon from clubs and restaurants reflected off polished glass windows.
Yujhae stood at the center of the operations room, reviewing reports from all Phoenix properties. The grocery in Ansan was thriving, clubs were stabilized, and restaurants were performing steadily. But the MC's mind was never satisfied with mere maintenance. Expansion required optimization—strength through infrastructure, efficiency, and influence.
SYSTEM ALERT:
> New Mission — "Upgrade & Expand"
Objectives:
1. Upgrade existing Phoenix businesses for higher revenue and influence
2. Acquire sponsors to fund further expansion and security improvements
Reward: Increased Revenue, Team Buffs, MC Resource Pool
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Phase 1 — Upgrading Operations
Yujhae called a meeting with Dojin, Taejun, Kang Jisu, and a few senior managers.
"We hold territory, yes," Yujhae said, pointing to a digital map of all Phoenix establishments. "But influence is measured in more than clubs and brawls. We need to optimize: more customers, higher margins, better security. Everything counts."
Dojin grinned. "You mean… turn our empire into a proper machine?"
"Exactly," Yujhae replied. "We upgrade staffing, menu quality, club security, event schedules, everything. Every operation must serve both profit and control."
Over the next week, Phoenix businesses underwent subtle transformations:
Restaurants: New menus, professional chefs, VIP dining areas added, reservation systems implemented. Efficiency improved, customer satisfaction soared.
Clubs: Reinforced entrances, advanced surveillance cameras, and specialized security rotations. VIP areas increased revenue and drew influential visitors.
Grocery & Warehouses (Ansan): Automated stock tracking, delivery scheduling, and minor renovations improved operations without drawing attention from Hudson's crew.
SYSTEM UPDATE:
> Business Upgrade Complete — Revenue +25% | Influence +15%
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Phase 2 — Securing Sponsors
With businesses optimized, Yujhae's attention turned to funding and influence—sponsors who could provide financial resources, political connections, or access to discreet logistics.
He arranged private meetings with influential figures:
1. Local Business Magnates: Owners of supply chains, restaurant networks, and local media. Yujhae offered partnership stakes in exchange for investment. Subtle leverage ensured loyalty.
2. Security & Arms Sponsors: Private companies specializing in high-end security equipment and advanced surveillance. Funding came with tech and trained personnel support.
3. Entertainment & Marketing Sponsors: Social media influencers, club promoters, and advertising agents. Investment in Phoenix's clubs increased reach and prestige.
Each meeting was a careful balance of charm, intimidation, and strategic promise. Yujhae showcased Phoenix's successes, highlighting Ansan's foothold, Suwon operations, and the skill of his team.
By the end of the week, Phoenix secured:
Two financial sponsors providing steady capital injections
A tech company supplying advanced surveillance equipment
Marketing partners capable of increasing visibility without attracting unwanted attention
SYSTEM UPDATE:
> Sponsors Secured — Funding +50% | Team Buff: Advanced Surveillance & PR Support
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Phase 3 — Implementation
The sponsors' resources were immediately deployed. Clubs received upgraded sound systems and security measures, restaurants saw VIP lounges installed with discreet camera monitoring, and Ansan warehouses gained advanced stock tracking technology.
The team trained to integrate new tools:
Dojin oversaw security implementation and combat readiness with the upgraded systems.
Taejun tested stealth and rapid response drills using improved surveillance feeds.
Kang Jisu coordinated perimeter and crowd control using upgraded tech and sponsor-trained personnel.
Yujhae monitored everything, ensuring that each investment increased efficiency, profitability, and strategic control over Phoenix's empire.
SYSTEM LOG:
> All Current Businesses Upgraded
Sponsors Integrated — Operational Funding +50%, Tech Buff Active
MC Stats Updated — Leadership +5, Strategy +7
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Standing on the rooftop of the Suwon headquarters, Yujhae looked over the bustling district. Clubs, restaurants, and minor businesses thrived under Phoenix's watch. The city pulsed with life, unaware of the web of influence silently consolidating above it.
Dojin joined him, smirking. "Looks like we're leveling up. Phoenix isn't just a crew anymore—we're an institution."
Taejun nodded, eyes on the skyline. "Sponsors mean power, connections… and more targets. We have to stay vigilant."
Yujhae's lips curved into a faint, cold smile. "Exactly. Expansion isn't just about territory. It's about resources, influence, and preparation. And now, we're ready for anything. Suwon is secure. Ansan is silent but strong. Sponsors are on our side. The board is set. Next moves… will decide the future of multiple districts."
The neon lights flickered in reflection, like pieces on a chessboard. Yujhae clenched his fists. Phoenix had grown stronger, richer, smarter—and every upgrade, every sponsor, every step taken was a prelude to an empire that would shake the very foundations of the region.
SYSTEM ALERT:
> Quest Complete — "Upgrade & Expand"
Rewards:
Team Morale +15%
Revenue +30%
MC Resource Pool Increased
Leadership Buff Applied (Team Efficiency +10% During Operations)
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Yujhae stepped back inside, eyes scanning the reports. The city was theirs—but the real game had only just begun.
The empire wasn't built overnight. Every upgrade, every ally, every sponsor was another layer of control. And once the foundation was unshakable, Phoenix would move beyond Suwon and Ansan—with precision, patience, and power.
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