How A Ride-Hailing Driver Comes To Dominate The World? [EN]: Chapter 672

672. Don’t Blame Your Subordinates When You Lose—What’s Wrong with a Ride-Hailing Driver Having Some Money? (1)

Salamander, having spent considerable time around camels, possessed a keen eye for their quality. He immediately recognized Yang Chen’s chosen camel as subpar, likely one of the worst in the lot.

“Mr. Yang, have you not encountered camels before in Dragon Country [China]?” Salamander inquired with a smile, his expression subtly conveying superiority and confidence.

Seeing camels infrequently was hardly a source of shame, so Yang Chen responded casually, “I’ve seen them a couple of times at the zoo, but I can’t claim to be an expert.”

Salamander stated confidently, “It’s quite evident you’re not familiar with them. The camel you’ve selected might not even outpace me. How do you intend to complete this three-kilometer race?”

Yang Chen retorted, “There are no guaranteed victories or predetermined losers. This time, I’ll demonstrate how my chosen camel will stage a comeback and triumph over your so-called undefeated champion.”

Salamander chuckled heartily, “Very well, I’ve already set aside 10 billion USD. Let’s see if you possess the ability to win it. You’ll need to match that with 10 billion USD of your own. I’m confident in my victory.”

Both men, being tycoons, were unwilling to appear at a disadvantage. They engaged in some lighthearted trash talk before the race’s commencement to bolster their egos.

At the referee’s whistle, the handlers untied the camels. With a second whistle, they patted their camels, sending them surging forward.

Yang Chen and Salamander returned to the stands, watching the live broadcast of the race on the big screen.

Havide smiled, “How confident are you both feeling?”

Salamander declared, “I can’t speak for his confidence, but I’m certain of my win.”

Havide chuckled, “Haha… you clearly have unwavering faith in your undefeated champion.”

Salamander boasted, “Indeed. The undefeated champion never disappoints. Even if it doesn’t secure the championship, it will undoubtedly outperform the weakling Mr. Yang selected.”

Yang Chen, uninterested in arguing, focused on the race, planning to deploy his skill card strategically, offering Salamander a glimmer of hope only to shatter it completely.

Before long, the undefeated champion had established a lead of over 50 meters, a considerable advantage.

To preempt any unforeseen circumstances, Yang Chen promptly activated the skill card.

Yang Chen mentally commanded, “System, use the exchange card to swap the speeds of my camel and the undefeated champion.”

The system responded, “Command received. Exchange card activated… successful, taking effect immediately.”

Salamander and Havide were conversing when Havide suddenly pointed at the big screen, “Salamander, what’s happening with your undefeated champion? Why is it slowing down? Did it mismanage its stamina and is now faltering in the second half?”

Salamander stared at the screen. His undefeated champion was visibly losing speed, struggling despite its apparent desire to run faster, and being overtaken by other competitors.

“This… what’s going on? This has never occurred before!” Salamander exclaimed, bewildered and shocked. He beckoned his attendant, who was standing nearby.

The attendant hurried over, “Your Highness, what are your orders?”

Salamander, grabbing the attendant’s ear, pointed at the screen, “What’s the explanation for this? Why is the undefeated champion running out of steam? Did you neglect its care?”

672. Don’t Blame Your Subordinates When You Lose—What’s Wrong with a Ride-Hailing Driver Having Some Money? (2)

The attendant, wincing in pain, looked at the screen and pleaded, “Your Highness, please investigate. I have always meticulously cared for the undefeated champion and never dared to slack off. I… I don’t know why it’s suddenly underperforming. Your Highness, please investigate. It’s truly not my fault.”

The stakes were high; losing this race meant forfeiting a 10 billion USD bet.

Even Salamander, despite his immense wealth, couldn’t easily absorb such a massive loss. He might not even have that much readily available cash.

In his anger, he raised his hand to strike the attendant, but Yang Chen swiftly intervened, grabbing his wrist.

“Your Highness, there are many onlookers. Don’t be a sore loser. As the Crown Prince of the Sand Country [a fictional country], you represent its image. Such behavior is unbecoming. Losing is a consequence of poor judgment, not something to blame on a subordinate,” Yang Chen said with a smile.

Salamander gritted his teeth, yanked his hand back, and kicked the attendant away, retorting, “Do you think I can’t afford to lose? Do you think I’m short of money? I can afford to lose! Besides, the race isn’t over yet. How do you know my undefeated champion won’t still place higher than the weak chicken you chose?”

As if on cue, Yang Chen’s chosen camel surged into view.

Salamander’s words were defiant, but his expression betrayed his anxiety. His nervous demeanor revealed his fear of defeat.

Yang Chen’s number 30 camel seemed to have been injected with an energy boost. While other camels were visibly slowing down due to exhaustion, its speed remained undiminished. It steadily overtook its rivals, quickly surpassing the undefeated champion.

Salamander slapped his thigh in frustration, then covered his face in dismay. He couldn’t bear to watch the race any longer, unable to accept the shattering of his undefeated champion’s invincibility.

Havide chuckled, “Mr. Yang’s judgment is as sharp as ever. This camel appeared unremarkable, but I didn’t anticipate such power. It’s now in the lead. With less than 500 meters remaining, it should secure the championship. Salamander, your camel is past its prime. It should retire.”

Salamander remained silent, peeking at the screen through his fingers.

Soon, the number 30 camel, selected by Yang Chen, crossed the finish line first, eliciting gasps and curses from the audience.

Those who had bet on the undefeated champion had suffered significant losses, while the organizers profited handsomely from the number 30 camel’s unexpected victory.

Havide excitedly exclaimed to Yang Chen, “Mr. Yang, you’ve won again! Oh, why did I say ‘again’? Ah, it’s true, you have won again.”

Yang Chen nodded with a smile, “It was within my expectations, but it also demonstrates my good fortune and ability to identify a dark horse. What do you think, Your Highness?”

Salamander looked at Yang Chen with a pained expression, his mouth moving, but he remained silent. He was at a loss for words, having lost the race and now owing Yang Chen 10 billion USD.

More than the money, as a Crown Prince, losing so much face was unbearable. Someone had to take responsibility to shield the Crown Prince from appearing as a complete loser.

Adubi, sensing the Crown Prince’s potential wrath, had already begun to discreetly distance himself from Salamander.

However, Salamander had initiated this race with Yang Chen to

672. Don’t Blame Your Subordinates When You Lose—What’s Wrong with a Ride-Hailing Driver Having Some Money? (3)

win back the three islands for Adubi. Now, not only had Salamander failed to reclaim the islands, but he had also lost 10 billion USD. He couldn’t simply let Adubi escape blame.

Salamander shouted angrily, “Adubi, get over here!”

Adubi, who had only taken a few steps back, froze, his body trembling. His legs began to shake uncontrollably, and he was too terrified to move further.

Observing Adubi’s distress, Yang Chen interjected with a smile, “Your Highness, surely you’re not going to be a sore loser? You confidently competed with me, and now that you’ve lost, you’re shifting the blame onto someone else. That’s hardly appropriate, is it? You’re the future ruler of this country. If you lack the courage and responsibility to take ownership of your actions, how can you effectively govern? Seeing this, I’m genuinely concerned for your people.”

Salamander, feeling embarrassed to target Adubi after Yang Chen’s words, at least on this occasion, hesitated to place blame. What might transpire later was a different matter.

Havide quickly smoothed things over, “Mr. Yang, rest assured, Salamander isn’t short of funds and would never welch on a 10 billion USD debt. He’s not attempting to shift blame; he simply finds the undefeated champion’s performance today highly unusual. Isn’t that right, Salamander?”

Havide offered an escape route, which Salamander eagerly seized.

“Yes! That’s precisely what I meant. The undefeated champion’s performance was indeed strange, and I intend to investigate thoroughly. As for the 10 billion USD I lost, I will absolutely honor the debt. I assure you. I may not have that much cash readily available, but I can settle the debt with oil. As the Crown Prince of the Sand Country, I can certainly afford to lose!” Salamander declared confidently.

Yang Chen nodded, “That’s acceptable. I can accept either cash or oil. Let’s exchange contact information. Perhaps we’ll have opportunities for collaboration in the future.”

Salamander, aware of Yang Chen’s influence in Dragon Country and globally, recognized the potential for future partnerships. He exchanged numbers with Yang Chen.

Havide suggested, “Shall we have a meal together? My treat. What do you both think?”

Yang Chen replied, “Certainly, I have no objections.”

Salamander added, “I’m also available. It’s a good opportunity to discuss the details of fulfilling this 10 billion USD obligation.”

Havide nodded and promptly arranged for a helicopter to transport them to the palace for dinner.

Salamander, still angered by the undefeated champion’s role in his defeat, pointed at the attendant and commanded, “Immediately execute the undefeated champion. I never want to see it again!”

Such is the way of the wealthy in this region. When their camels, greyhounds, or other racing animals lose, they are often punished severely, even slaughtered. Their racing pets are not treated as well as ordinary people might imagine.

To be fair, if Yang Chen hadn’t used the skill card, the undefeated champion would have likely won. Yang Chen couldn’t bear to see it slaughtered.

Yang Chen quickly interjected, “Your Highness, I’m quite fond of your camel. Would you consider selling it to me for 100 million USD? I’ll take it back to my country to raise, and I can occasionally ride it around the streets. The thought of that is quite amusing.”

Salamander asked, “Are you deliberately trying to provoke me?”

Yang Chen exclaimed, “Damn! You’re overthinking this! I’m

672. Don’t Blame Your Subordinates When You Lose—What’s Wrong with a Ride-Hailing Driver Having Some Money? (4)

sincerely offering to buy this camel, not trying to insult you.”

Havide chimed in, “Salamander, don’t misunderstand. Mr. Yang also acquired two greyhounds. He initially wanted tigers and lions, but those animals are prohibited from being privately owned in Dragon Country. He simply wants some animals he can raise and take back with him. Just sell it to him; it would be a shame to slaughter it.”

Salamander countered, “If he genuinely wants it, I’m happy to give it to him. Why would he offer to buy it for 100 million USD? Is he pitying me for losing 10 billion USD and trying to ease my pain with 100 million USD for a camel?”

Truthfully, Yang Chen did feel some pity; otherwise, who would spend 100 million USD on a camel?

However, Salamander, as the Crown Prince of the Sand Country, couldn’t accept such a humiliating transaction. He would rather give it away for free than accept the 100 million.

Pride can be a burden. 100 million USD is a significant sum; why refuse it?

Yang Chen conceded, “Haha… then I must thank Your Highness. I’ll reciprocate with a gift when you desire something.”

Salamander responded, “I want a giant panda. Can you send me one?”

Yang Chen exclaimed, “Damn! You’re being ridiculous. I can’t even acquire tigers and lions; how am I going to get you a giant panda? However, I can facilitate a rental agreement for a few giant pandas for your country. The condition is that you must construct a panda pavilion, create a suitable environment for pandas to thrive, and ensure an adequate food supply. Only then would I be comfortable connecting you with the relevant authorities to rent a few giant pandas for your people to enjoy.”

Dragon Country has a long-standing tradition of renting out giant pandas. In the past, when the country was less prosperous, renting out giant pandas was a highly effective means of generating foreign exchange. A single giant panda could generate millions of USD in foreign exchange annually. In those times, this was a substantial amount that significantly aided the country in acquiring technology.

Even now, Dragon Country continues to rent out giant pandas, though the financial aspect is no longer the primary concern. The diplomatic value of giant pandas is now the focus.

The Middle East is crucial for global stability. Its vast oil reserves are the economic lifeblood of many nations, making it a key area of competition among major powers.

Yang Chen already wields considerable influence in the UAE [United Arab Emirates]. If he could also cultivate a strong relationship with the Sand Country, it would greatly benefit Dragon Country.

At the very least, it would ensure a stable and affordable supply of oil for Dragon Country and expand its global influence.

The Sand Country’s leadership is transitioning to Crown Prince Salamander. If Yang Chen can seize this opportunity to forge a positive relationship with Salamander, it would be a significant diplomatic achievement.

Salamander inquired, “Is the living environment for giant pandas particularly demanding?”

Yang Chen explained, “It’s not overly demanding; simply simulate a humid forest environment with temperatures maintained around 20°C [68°F]. You can build a panda pavilion and use air conditioning to regulate temperature and humidity. Bamboo can be airlifted from Dragon Country, or you can cultivate it in a simulated environment. You’re not short of funds, and it would be a wonderful opportunity for your people to see these animals. How about this: you take responsibility for constructing the panda pavilion, and I’ll arrange for you to rent two giant pandas free of charge for five years. How does that sound?”

Salamander asked, “Really? I’ve heard that your

672. Don’t Blame Your Subordinates When You Lose—What’s Wrong with a Ride-Hailing Driver Having Some Money? (5)

country is very selective about renting out giant pandas, and only nine countries have qualified so far. Are you certain you can secure free giant pandas for me? I wouldn’t want to invest in building the panda pavilion only to be denied the pandas and waste my money.”

Yang Chen proposed, “We can formalize this with an agreement. If I fail to secure free giant pandas for you—free for five years, just five years; any lease renewal beyond that would be subject to negotiation with the relevant departments, and I won’t be involved—then I will cover all construction costs and compensate you three times the initial investment. How about that?”

Salamander immediately nodded enthusiastically, “Deal!”

Following this exchange, Salamander’s animosity toward Yang Chen diminished.

The remaining point of contention was the matter of the 10 billion USD.

Salamander is wealthy and holds the title of Crown Prince, but 10 billion USD is still a substantial sum, and he certainly isn’t indifferent to losing it.

However, Yang Chen isn’t particularly concerned about the money and is flexible regarding the form of payment.

Settlement could involve oil, shares in the Saudi American Group of the Sand Country, or other options. He planned to discuss these possibilities with Salamander to determine a mutually acceptable solution.

Shortly after, the helicopter arrived.

Havide invited Yang Chen and Salamander aboard, and they flew directly to the palace.

The three arrived at the palace, where the “Imperial Dining Room” had prepared lunch. They began eating as soon as they arrived.

Havide brought out auction-worthy Romanée-Conti wine to share with Yang Chen and Salamander, a clear indication of his generosity.

Yang Chen joked, “I’m starting to feel impolite staying here any longer, having consumed several bottles of your Romanée-Conti.”

Havide replied, “Haha… If Mr. Yang were to stay here permanently, I’d gladly use Romanée-Conti to rinse your mouth every day.”

Yang Chen chuckled, “Haha… You said it. When I retire in a few years, I’ll have to come here for an extended stay. If you don’t provide Romanée-Conti for my daily mouthwash, I’ll enlist Salamander to join me in scolding you.”

“Haha…” The three laughed together.

Salamander added, “I’m happy to assist with that; I excel at scolding people.”

Havide responded, “Haha… Very well, both of you are welcome. There’s plenty of Romanée-Conti to go around. Come, let’s savor this bottle. Cheers!”

The three enjoyed their meal and drinks, creating a harmonious atmosphere.

After eating and drinking, Yang Chen wanted to discuss business with Salamander.

Yang Chen began, “Your Highness, what are your thoughts on the 10 billion USD? I’d like to hear your perspective first.”