The Arcade Machines spreads

Lee Han found himself uncomfortable under the scrutiny of his peers and superiors. He decided to explain the situation, saying, "It was KiShin Electronics that rented the space. They own a video game machine that's now turning a profit."

This revelation led to a series of reactions among the managers. One of them questioned, "You knew about this all along, and you didn't inform the General Manager about it?"

Another chimed in, "We could have acquired that video game machine ourselves and been the ones making money!"

The blame was quickly placed on Lee Han as the managers discussed the situation. They realized that the more the Ikeburo Center earned, the higher their potential salaries could become.

Lee Han attempted to defend himself, explaining, "But I did report everything, including the machine's potential, to the Assistant General Manager!"

The managers fell silent, considering Lee Han's explanation. The General Manager then turned to his son, the Assistant General Manager, and questioned him with a stern gaze. "Is that true, Assistant Ito Kimura?"

Ito Kimura avoided his father's gaze and shook his head, replying, "He didn't tell me anything!"

Lee Han felt an intense urge to confront Ito, but he refrained from doing so. He recalled that he had called the Assistant General Manager at that time because the General Manager had emphasized that section managers should communicate with his son regarding such matters. The General Manager often left minor issues to his son, as he was busy with other responsibilities.

However, Lee Han was taken aback by Ito's arrogance and refusal to admit any mistake. The General Manager's silence implied his support for his son's stance.

The General Manager addressed Lee Han, saying, "General Manager Han, as you can see, my son claims he had no knowledge of this."

Lee Han clenched his teeth, understanding that the General Manager was protecting his son.

"I will forgive your mistake this time. But in the future, you must acquire those video game machines. If they refuse, then raise KiShin Electronics' rent," the General Manager ordered firmly.

Lee Han shook his head, explaining, "The Ikeburo Game Section and KiShin Electronics have already signed a three-month contract. We cannot raise the rent within that time frame."

Frustration echoed in the General Manager's voice as he slammed his hand on the table, shouting, "Then, after three months, raise it! That video game machine is simply too profitable!"

Lee Han reluctantly agreed, saying, "I understand."

Retail Manager Susaki added, "With such profits, KiShin Electronics might expand and rent more spaces within the Ikeburo Center."

The situation had taken an unexpected turn, and the impact of KiShin Electronics' success was becoming increasingly evident.

The General Manager and other managers nodded in agreement, and some of them stated, "Let's inform our store managers."

Meanwhile, Shin proceeded with his plan to rent spaces in various malls besides the Ikeburo Center. In the Toshima ward, several malls were available, and Shin visited them to negotiate rental agreements.

The mall managers were unaware of the profitability of KiShin Video Games machines, so they offered Shin lower rental prices, which he gladly accepted.

Over the course of several days, Shin, along with the growing number of newly hired employees, managed to produce dozens of Video Games consoles. Each day, their manufacturing process improved, resulting in better-quality consoles. These consoles were then delivered to the entertainment halls of the malls that Shin had rented.

However, a sudden call from the store managers at the Ikeburo Center surprised Shin. They informed him that they would be raising the rent for their spaces.

Shin was puzzled by the unexpected price increase and thought, 'Why are they suddenly charging more?'

Despite his confusion, Shin decided to accept the higher rent rates as they were still manageable.

Shortly afterward, Manager Han contacted Shin, revealing, "We had a meeting yesterday to discuss your video game machines... They suddenly became greedy, realizing your machines are making money."

Understanding the reason behind the rent increase offer of those store managers, Shin nodded and thanked Manager Han, saying, "I see... Thanks for letting me know."

Before ending the call, Shin asked a question that crossed his mind, "Manager Han, why did you inform me about this?"

Manager Han's chuckling response came through the phone as he explained, "They wanted to lay claim to your video game machines. I had wanted to discuss the potential of your video game machines with the Assistant General Manager, but he simply laughed at me."

Shin sensed Manager Han's frustration and came up with an idea. He asked, "Would you like to join KiShin Company, my company, Manager Han?"

Manager Han's surprised voice echoed over the phone as he exclaimed, "You want to hire me!?"

Shin chuckled and replied, "Yes, I believe you're a competent employee."

There was a brief silence on the other end, and Shin thought that Manager Han might not be interested. However, Manager Han finally responded, "Give me a few days to consider it, Mr. Suzuki."

Shin was pleasantly surprised to hear Manager Han's serious tone, indicating that he was genuinely considering the offer. Shin nodded and agreed, "Alright."

---

Shin also placed a banner on his rented space in Section Manager Han's game section, advertising the locations where people could enjoy the video game machines.

The banner boldly proclaimed, 'KiShin Arcade Machines Available at Several Malls in Toshima Ward!'

This eye-catching advertisement attracted a lot of attention. It wasn't just kids who were drawn to the video games; high school students who frequented karaoke establishments and even workers who visited places like karaoke, pachinko, and gashapon shops took notice of the KiShin video game machines.

"Look, they've got video game machines at other locations too!" one young man exclaimed.

"That's fantastic! Let's check them out."

"Agreed."

Even Lee Han couldn't help but notice the banners. Fortunately, renters of space in his game section were allowed to advertise their products within their designated areas, so the banners didn't violate any contractual agreements.