Victor had been increasingly frustrated lately, unable to comprehend why other companies were terminating contracts with him, even at the risk of significant liquidated damages.
But Victor dismissed their actions as short-sighted. He believed that people were underestimating his motives. He hadn't invested heavily in the solar storm project just to chase Susan.
He understood Reed 's character and the goal of the solar storm research. If successful, it would not only yield substantial profits but could even surpass Stark Industries.
Victor was now preparing to discuss a joint venture with another company.
"Mr. Victor, you're still pushing forward? I really don't understand how you managed to get involved with Stark Industries," his business partner said as Victor took his seat.
"What do you mean?" Victor asked, surprised.
"Don't you know?" his partner replied, puzzled. "You've offended Stark Industries and didn't even realize it?"
"How so?" Victor asked urgently.
"You were pursuing Susan, right?"
"Yes, but what does that have to do with Stark Industries?" Victor asked, frowning.
"Susan's family is the head of Stark Industries. You've crossed paths with someone very powerful. I admire your courage, but that's why I'm here to terminate the contract," his partner said, shaking his head.
In the business world, offending someone powerful often leads to widespread betrayal. Businesspeople are practical and prefer not to challenge those who are stronger.
Victor's forehead tightened with frustration. It seemed his pursuit of Susan had cost him dearly. "So, that's it! They found someone better, didn't they?"
"Yes, unfortunately. Best of luck to you. Bankruptcy might be the best outcome now," his partner said, shaking his head with a sigh. He picked up his briefcase and left.
Victor's face turned blue with anger. After his partner had left, he slammed his fist on the table, and the wooden surface shattered instantly.
Looking at the metal beneath his skin in shock, Victor's heart raced with panic. What was happening to him?
He hurried to his private clinic, where the doctor began to examine him.
"Wow, what's going on with you?" Victor's personal doctor said, placing Victor's hand on the fluoroscopy machine and examining the tissue on his arm with surprise.
"I just need to know what will happen if this continues," Victor asked coldly.
"Your tissues, organs, and entire physiological structure are changing, but somehow, all systems are still functioning normally," the doctor said as he reviewed the dialysis report.
"What will it become in the end?" Victor asked.
"I don't know. It seems that some organic alloy material is involved, which is stronger than titanium and steel and harder than diamond," the doctor said helplessly. This was beyond his understanding and almost unheard of in his experience.
Victor looked silently at the doctor and reached out to touch his exposed metal skin. He was filled with hatred towards Reed, Susan, and Alex.
"How long until it's complete?" Victor asked, feeling the intense power within him and looking at his private doctor.
"At this rate, everything will be infected within two or three weeks," the doctor estimated.
"What do you mean by everything?" Victor asked, pulling down his sleeves.
"I wish I knew, but I can't pretend to understand what's happening," the doctor said, pausing. "I need to report this to the CDC."
"What?" Victor asked, puzzled.
"The Centers for Disease Control," the doctor clarified.
"I know what that is," Victor said with a forced smile, thinking the doctor was joking. But seeing the serious look on the doctor's face, he realized the gravity of the situation.
"If this thing is contagious, we could be in 693 big trouble. We're talking about a plague," the doctor said, eyeing Victor warily.
Victor stood up, his gaze fixed on the doctor. "Look at me. I have my life, and I represent a company worth billions of dollars. This matter must be kept secret!" he insisted.
"Victor, your condition is worsening. I have to inform—" The doctor's words were cut off as Victor grabbed him by the neck.
Victor's eyes narrowed coldly. "This is truly bad news."
With a swift motion, Victor smashed the wall and shattered the glass. He glanced at his hand, surprised by the strength he had just displayed. He walked over to the doctor, who was now lifeless, and inhaled deeply, visibly showing no sign of sympathy.
The doctor was dead.
Victor stepped back, placing his hand on the socket and absorbing the electric current flowing through it.
As the electric arc flickered around his hand, Victor's face twisted into a cold smile. He was ready to seek revenge.
(End of this chapter)