"I truly appreciate you inviting me along, Xiao Wei, and I absolutely trust your ability to make me a fortune. However, the funds I have are already allocated, so I regrettably can't move them," Liu Hui sighed, looking genuinely regretful.

"Is that so? What a pity. I was just thinking that with your one hundred and fifty billion US dollars, my plan would be even more refined, my chances greater, and the resulting profits far more abundant," Wei Chao sounded surprised, shaking his head as he spoke.

"You should know the specifics: the demand for our company's product is severely outstripping supply. Consequently, we've committed every cent of those payment funds to purchasing equipment and scaling up production. We are truly powerless to help right now. I hope Xiao Wei can understand," Liu Hui explained.

In truth, Liu Hui hadn't used much of that money for expanding production. At the end of the day, he remained distrustful of financial operations. While financial maneuvering could yield fast money in the short term, it wasn't a secure business. Even with someone as extraordinary as Wei Chao, Liu Hui didn't believe his strategies would win every battle. If an investment failed and the money was lost, his grand plan would inevitably be delayed—something he absolutely could not tolerate. Thus, he preferred to trust his own instincts and channel the money into the industries he genuinely needed. This wasn't cowardice, but rather a profound confidence in his own product; even if it didn't generate cash as quickly as financial speculation, steady growth was far more reliable.

"The timing is that coincidental? Well, if that's the case, there’s nothing to be done. Brother Liu’s product is in its prime earning period; not a moment can be spared. However, this opportunity is truly rare. Let me think of a way to raise one hundred and fifty billion US dollars from other sources," Wei Chao said understandingly, grasping the urgency of the matter.

"Young Master Wei, why don't we all figure out a way to raise this one hundred and fifty billion US dollars together?" Young Master Huo suddenly interjected.

"Yes, let us all chip in to raise the funds!" The other young masters and ladies quickly volunteered, patting their chests, terrified of missing out on another money-making venture.

With the funding secured, Wei Chao immediately relaxed and continued chatting about gossip with the group. Since Liu Hui wasn't participating in this specific plan, Wei Chao didn't elaborate on his moneymaking scheme right then. Liu Hui was a man who understood the situation and didn't take offense, joining the lively conversation.

After gathering together for a while longer, the group dispersed, each heading off to network within their respective social circles.

Liu Hui pulled Wei Chao aside, leading him to a quiet corner, and asked, "Xiao Wei, you were doing so well here in the mainland. Why the recent shift toward moving things overseas?"

Liu Hui had also recently gathered intelligence through various channels and noticed Wei Chao's mainland assets beginning to transfer abroad, prompting his question.

"Brother Liu, I have no choice. My businesses in the mainland are primarily real estate. Recently, I don't know why, but the policy direction from above suddenly shifted around the New Year. They are preparing to discard real estate developers like us—those who have made significant contributions to the nation's economic development—and use us as scapegoats to appease public resentment. Because of this, my development in the mainland has become extremely difficult. I have no option but to move outwards so I don't become the bird that gets sacrificed," Wei Chao explained helplessly.

"I say, you real estate moguls have far too much greed. You’ve driven housing prices to the heavens; ordinary people can’t possibly afford them. This has led to widespread suffering and disrupted the harmonious stability of the nation. If they don't execute a few of you, it won't quell the public anger!" Liu Hui sighed.

However, Liu Hui was aware of the actual reason behind the sudden policy change. Judging by the timing Wei Chao mentioned, it coincided with the conclusion of the power struggle among the top leaders, which was resolved using his Han Tang Hospital as the arena, leading to the installation of new decision-makers.

"We are also victims. Ordinary people don't know our struggles. The high housing prices you see—we developers don't receive the lion's share of the profit. The bulk of the true profit is actually in the hands of the government. Look, first, we must pay exorbitant land transfer fees to acquire land from the government; this portion alone accounts for at least one-third of the housing price. Then there are numerous types of high taxes and approval fees, which account for nearly another quarter of the price. Following that is our construction cost, and finally, after advertising, ancillary facility construction, and financing operating costs, what remains isn't much. Not to mention a massive expenditure we can't disclose: corruption costs. So-called corruption costs cover expenses like maintaining scholars and experts, and the collusion between officials and businessmen—those expenses are terrifyingly high. Nobody knows about this. Looking at the costs, you’ll realize that the government takes the biggest cut from high housing prices; we real estate developers are essentially taking the blame for others," Wei Chao expressed his frustration.

"Heh heh, even so, you must still be making quite a decent profit, right? Otherwise, why would the top several wealthiest individuals in Huaxia all be involved in real estate?" Liu Hui chuckled.

"Some profit remains, otherwise, who would willingly bear the curses of their ancestors for eight generations to develop real estate?" Wei Chao countered.

"Since there is still a considerable profit, why the sudden need to retreat?" Liu Hui asked curiously.

"Haven't you seen the domestic news lately? It’s all about aggressively suppressing housing prices, strictly inspecting construction quality, recouping land appreciation tax, and cracking down on illegal activities in property construction. Although I possess more conscience than other developers and have absolutely no issues with building quality, I can’t withstand intense scrutiny. After so many years of non-standard operations in the mainland, who doesn't have some leverage held by the government? If I'm designated a key target for investigation and the government decides to make an example of me, it will be a complete disaster," Wei Chao explained.

"Who told you to make so much money from property? That’s all the hard-earned money of the people. It's only fitting that you become the scapegoat," Liu Hui, having personally suffered under high property prices before, held deep disdain for developers and felt a slight schadenfreude.

"Don’t gloat too early. Your Han Tang Hospital isn't much better off than me. I’m just worried about being purged later, whereas your hospital might just be nationalized outright," Wei Chao quipped.

Liu Hui was instantly reminded of a painful memory and became somewhat downcast.

"Actually, real estate in the mainland is still extremely profitable. Real estate has made local governments the biggest beneficiaries, gaining massive annual returns from it. As long as the current system remains unchanged, they are absolutely the most fearful party about the real estate market collapsing, so they will never allow this market to decline. It’s such a shame," Wei Chao shook his head with regret.

"It’s good not to be in real estate, so you don’t have to worry about the curses of your ancestors and can sleep soundly at night," Liu Hui advised.

"I think so too. Ever since your Han Tang Hospital was nationalized before the Lunar New Year, I’ve been uncertain about the direction of domestic policy. Now this is an opportunity for me to fully withdraw." Wei Chao shook his head, then suddenly added, "Shouldn't these changes have started two years later? Why the sudden acceleration? Could it be the butterfly effect kicking in?"

Liu Hui didn't quite catch Wei Chao’s final sentence and asked, "Xiao Wei, what did you say?"

"Oh, nothing. I was just considering what direction to take my ventures if I stop doing real estate," Wei Chao mumbled vaguely.

"You have so many industries; developing in any direction should be the same," Liu Hui laughed.

After chatting for a bit longer, the two parted ways. That evening was a charity gala attended by social elites from Hong Kong and Macau, all eager to meet more people and expand their social networks.

Liu Hui also prepared to mingle, hoping to make more connections; after all, as the saying goes, every new friend is a new avenue. He was enthusiastic about making friends and had already sent away his entourage, including Mei Peng, Zhou Tengyun, and Yue Wang.

Liu Hui had only taken a couple of steps when he saw a beautiful woman approaching him.

"Boss Liu, we meet again." This woman was Miss Ouyang Shasfei, the movie star he had a brief acquaintance with previously.

"Miss Ouyang, hello. It's a pleasure to see you again," Liu Hui smiled.

"Boss Liu, I’m delighted to see you too. I don't know why, but I feel you possess an extraordinary masculine charm tonight," Ouyang Shasfei giggled sweetly.

"Heh heh, is that so? Someone else just said the same thing," Liu Hui rubbed his chin, wondering if he truly exuded masculine charm without realizing it.

"I noticed Boss Liu didn't bring a female companion, and I am also unattached. How about I be your companion for the evening?" Ouyang Shasfei looked at Liu Hui with a smile.

"If Miss Ouyang is willing to be my companion, it is my honor. Liu Hui could ask for nothing more," Liu Hui laughed heartily, extending his arm.

Ouyang Shasfei gracefully stepped forward, hooked her arm through Liu Hui’s, and smiled, "Calling you 'Boss Liu' sounds distant. Why don't I call you Brother Liu, and you call me Shasfei?"

"That sounds fine," Liu Hui replied, then called out, "Shasfei."

Ouyang Shasfei immediately responded sweetly, and Liu Hui, now linking arms with her, began to move through the crowd. Ouyang Shasfei seemed very familiar with the gala attendees and introduced Liu Hui to many socialites along the way. Through her, Liu Hui managed to meet many influential figures.

Under the surprised gazes of these elites, Liu Hui and Ouyang Shasfei appeared to be a perfectly matched couple. Liu Hui smiled and nodded constantly, fully showcasing his charisma. Suddenly, he felt Ouyang Shasfei’s body tremble, and she leaned heavily against him.

"Shasfei, what's wrong?" Liu Hui asked curiously.

"Brother Liu, I need a favor. There’s a suitor I absolutely despise who is coming over. I need you to pretend to be my boyfriend and help me get through this, please?" Ouyang Shasfei looked at Liu Hui with pleading eyes.

Liu Hui was momentarily stunned. Before he could process it, a man was already striding toward them. Upon seeing Ouyang Shasfei hooked onto Liu Hui’s arm and leaning against him, the man's expression shifted dramatically. He asked, "Shasfei, what is this?"

"Young Master Chen, I told you long ago that I have a boyfriend, but you wouldn't believe me. Now you see for yourself," Ouyang Shasfei murmured softly, still nestled against Liu Hui.

"Impossible. I’ve investigated you; you couldn't possibly have a boyfriend. Besides, if you did, why would you say those things to me?" The man shook his head repeatedly, unwilling to accept the reality.

"You still don't believe me? Then let me prove it," Ouyang Shasfei suddenly kissed Liu Hui's cheek, then took his hand, interlocking their fingers, and flashed it in front of the man.

"Shasfei, you can’t do this to me. You know I truly love you; I can't lose you," the man seemed utterly devoted and was clearly provoked by Ouyang Shasfei's action.

"I appreciate that you like me, and you are a good person. I’ve always considered you like a brother. But I really do have a boyfriend now. See? He is Liu Hui, the owner of the Starry Sky Group," Ouyang Shasfei explained softly.

"Liu Hui, the owner of the Starry Sky Group?" The man finally noticed that the man holding Ouyang Shasfei was the recently high-profile Liu Hui.

"That's right, he is Liu Hui. So, I can only say I'm sorry," Ouyang Shasfei said apologetically.

"So what if he’s Liu Hui? In love, everyone is equal. I will still compete with him fairly," the man looked at Liu Hui, his eyes seeming to spew fire.

Liu Hui was furious. This Ouyang Shasfei had pushed him into the line of fire without consulting him, inexplicably making him her boyfriend, and seemingly earning the enmity of the man before him. While he wasn't afraid of making enemies, he disliked offending people without cause. Despite his usual genial and polite demeanor, when something violated his principles, there was no room for negotiation.

Liu Hui abruptly pulled his hand away from Ouyang Shasfei and said coldly, "Miss Ouyang Shasfei must be joking. We have met twice, for less than an hour in total. How could I possibly be your boyfriend?"

Ouyang Shasfei froze. She hadn't expected Liu Hui to completely disregard her feelings and expose her lie in public. Her face immediately flushed with embarrassment, and she let out a sudden cry, covering her mouth with her hand before running toward the restroom.

The man paused for a moment, then immediately chased after her. People nearby noticed the commotion and turned their attention toward Liu Hui. Liu Hui smiled faintly, nodded in acknowledgment, and then strolled away serenely.

Liu Hui felt no psychological burden regarding Ouyang Shasfei's drama. Having achieved such great success, he was certainly not going to allow himself to be used by others. As he continued walking, he made a few more connections when a staff member approached him and said, "Mr. Liu Hui, a distinguished guest wishes to see you. Do you have time?"

Liu Hui started inwardly, his first thought being that the Archbishops from the Vatican wanted to see him. However, facing the situation head-on, he couldn't retreat now and risk revealing any weakness. He nodded, "Please lead the way."

Liu Hui followed the staff member into a small private lounge off the main ballroom. The moment the staff member pushed the door open, Liu Hui saw the several Cardinal Archbishops seated on a sofa inside.

"So they really came for me. It seems this won't end amicably. But meeting force with force is the only option; let’s see what they have to say first," Liu Hui calmed himself and entered the small room following the staff member.

"Heh heh, come look at our Divine Doctor Liu! He is now the pride of Hong Kong," boomed a hearty voice.

Liu Hui focused his gaze and realized the small room held more than just the Archbishops; several other individuals were present. Seated in the most prominent position was the current Chief Executive of Hong Kong, whose hearty voice had just spoken.

"Heh heh, I merely gained some inspiration from Traditional Chinese Medicine and fortunately invented two pharmaceuticals. I hardly deserve the title Divine Doctor. If there is pride, it belongs to all Chinese people. Your Excellency is too kind," Liu Hui said, seeing that the attendees were all high-ranking Hong Kong officials, which immediately put him at ease. It seemed these Archbishops were not targeting him after all.

"Heh heh, Boss Liu achieved success at a young age but is neither arrogant nor rash—a true talent who suits my taste, Old Zhang," another middle-aged man praised with a smile.

"Heh heh, Boss Liu, I don't need to introduce myself. Let me introduce you to my other friends," the Chief Executive said with a smile.

"That would be very kind of you, Your Excellency," Liu Hui admitted he didn't recognize everyone present.

"The gentleman who just called himself Old Zhang is Director Zhang of the Hong Kong Financial Services Bureau. The gentleman to your right is Director Sun of the Hong Kong Police Force. The one behind him is Director Ma of the Home Affairs Bureau, and next to him is President Li of the Hong Kong Red Cross, the organizer of this charity gala. And these gentlemen are our honored guests: Archbishop Andre, Archbishop John, and Archbishop Ovimath from the Holy See of the Vatican," the Chief Executive introduced the attendees to Liu Hui.

Liu Hui smiled broadly, nodding repeatedly to everyone present. They returned his greeting; after all, Liu Hui’s status was different now. Setting aside the massive economic benefits derived from his myopia treatment product, the sheer power represented by the interest group he had built around it was enormous.

"Everyone here is an elder to Liu Hui. I was planning to pay my respects soon; I didn't expect to meet all of you here," Liu Hui stated.

"We hadn't planned on attending this charity gala, but Archbishop Andre and his delegation from the Holy See of the Vatican had matters to discuss with us, so we decided to hold the meeting here. We were just discussing something when we suddenly heard that you seemed to have had a conflict with the child of a very important figure, and that you apparently didn't know that person's identity. So, we called you in to explain, fearing you might suffer a loss without knowing the circumstances," the Chief Executive explained.

"Ah—the child of an important figure?" Liu Hui was greatly alarmed, instantly remembering Ouyang Shasfei, whom he had just publicly exposed.