Act - 57: "Passing the Reins"

The conference room fell into a calm hum after Celine and her assistant left us to hammer out the finer details of the subscription package. Lars, Ray, and I stayed behind, ready to strategize.

Lars leaned back in his chair, his fingers tapping rhythmically on the table. "So, we're thinking of a six-month supply, right? That seems solid."

"Yeah, six months," Ray chimed in, nodding. "But let's make it enticing. What about pricing it at 5000 kroner for the whole package? That gives people a full six months' worth of product without having to worry about reordering."

I considered it, rubbing my chin. "5000 kroner sounds good for the long-term subscribers, but what's the value we're really offering? What's gonna make them click 'buy' without hesitating?"

Ray jumped in, his eyes lighting up. "We could throw in a one-time bonus—like, if they subscribe, they get an exclusive product or a limited-edition item. Something like a moisturizer or serum that isn't available for single buyers."

Lars perked up. "That's smart. And we could even offer free shipping for those who go for the six-month option. People hate paying for shipping."

I nodded slowly. "True. Free shipping's a small cost for us, but to them? It feels like they're getting a steal."

Ray scribbled something on his notepad, his pen moving fast. "Plus, we could do a 'first 1000 subscribers' promo. Give them a discount or a personalized package. People love feeling like they're getting something exclusive."

"Good angle," I agreed. "But we should also focus on convenience. Make the pitch about saving time. They don't need to reorder every month—just pay once and they're good for half a year. Maybe throw in automatic renewals too, so they don't have to think about it when their six months are up."

Lars added, "And for those who are on the fence, we could create a trial version, like a mini three-month subscription, but at a slightly higher monthly rate. That way, if they're hesitant about committing to six months, we hook them with three months, and by then they'll be loyal customers."

Ray leaned forward, his tone more excited now. "Exactly. It's all about making it feel like they're getting a personalized, VIP deal. Like they're part of something bigger. And we could tie it into the whole Bellalux brand story—luxury, exclusivity, high-end results."

I could see the pitch coming together in my mind. "We'll emphasize quality and exclusivity in the ads too. Make them feel like they're getting premium skincare with none of the hassle."

Lars smiled, clearly pleased with where things were going. "I like it. So, 5000 kroner for six months, free shipping, a bonus product for subscribers, and maybe even a loyalty program for renewals?"

"Yeah," I agreed. "It's a win-win. They get quality skincare, and we secure steady revenue. It's perfect."

Ray chuckled. "This is gonna be a game-changer for Bellalux—and for us."

The ideas were flowing smoothly now, everyone in sync. But as the conversation continued, I couldn't shake the feeling that something bigger was lurking just around the corner.

I dialed Tobi's number, watching the city lights flicker outside the office window as the call connected. His voice crackled on the line, sharp and efficient.

"Hello Tobi, We're gonna need more people. Twenty-five more salesmen, minimum," I said, leaning back in my chair. "I need you to start the recruitment process, fast."

There was a brief pause before Tobi's voice came back, already calculating. "Got it. I'll start pulling in candidates today. Anything else?"

I glanced over at Maria and Lars, who had been quietly listening from across the table. They didn't say a word, but their posture spoke volumes. Shoulders squared, eyes locked with mine, both of them brimming with ambition.

"Actually," I said into the phone, "Maria and Lars will take over the reins for this. I trust them to handle it. They'll be running point on the recruitment process."

Maria gave Lars a quick look, a hint of surprise in her eyes, but the determination that followed was unmistakable. Lars straightened up, a subtle grin spreading across his face as he nodded in silent agreement.

"Understood," Tobi said, not missing a beat. "I'll coordinate with them."

As I hung up the phone, I could feel the weight of the task settling in the room. But looking at Maria and Lars, their confidence and quiet resolve, I knew they had it covered. They didn't need words—they were ready to take charge.

As I slid into my car, the city buzzed around me, but my mind was already focused on the next move. I dialed Mr. Johan, the phone ringing as I pulled out of the parking lot, heading toward the new office.

"Well, well, if it isn't the mastermind himself," Mr. Johan's voice came through, teasing but respectful.

I smirked, keeping my eyes on the road. "Can't let you handle all the glory, Mr. Johan. How's everything looking?"

"Better than good," he replied, his tone shifting to business. "Onio and I are here at the location. Just waiting on your green light before we sign. It's all ready."

I nodded, though he couldn't see it. "Send me a picture. I want to see it for myself."

A few moments later, my phone buzzed with a photo. The new office—sleek, modern, and exactly as I'd envisioned. It felt surreal seeing it all come together.

"Looks sharp," I said, a sense of pride settling in. "From here on, let Onio take the reins. He'll be the face of the company, handling the day-to-day. But when it comes to the bigger decisions…" I paused, letting the weight of it sink in. "That's still on me."

Mr. Johan chuckled on the other end. "Sounds like a plan, Dio. You're trusting a lot here."

I smiled, knowing I'd built the right team. "I trust you and the others fully. Speaking of which… I've been thinking. When I head to the U.S. to kick off the next venture, I could use someone with your expertise. What do you say? You up for it?"

There was a beat of silence, and then Mr. Johan's voice lit up. "You want me on board for the States? Hell, I'd be honored. Count me in."

I could hear the excitement in his voice. It was the confirmation I needed.

"Glad to hear it, Mr. Johan," I said, my own excitement creeping in. "We're just getting started."

As I hung up, a sense of satisfaction washed over me. Everything was falling into place, just like I'd planned. The company was secure with people I could trust—people who could operate without me for the first time. The plan was in motion, but this was only the beginning.

And as I drove, the thought crept into my mind: What comes next might be even bigger than I'd imagined.

Dio Stat's Info:

Lvl: 15

Skill Count: 3 (Key selling point analyze) (Analyze) (Global Monitoring System)

Strength:35

Agility:24

Intelligence:28

Endurance:21

Charm:23

Dio influence, power & riches:

Money - 1million kroner. 

Associate - 8

Asset - 0

Digital Asset - 250 BTC

Goons - 10

Car - 1

Guard - 0

Employers -25

Company - 1