Upon Chris backed to his own office, Sinthea happened to call. "Honey, three companies are now competing for our order business. One of them is a subsidiary of Wayne Enterprises, while the other two include a company owned by the President's family and a local gang." she informed.
Chris' good mood vanished in an instant. The progress he made with Carter was worth celebrating, but there were always nuisances buzzing around.
"It seems like we need to change industries and focus on patent technology. Don't count on the bureaucrats to help us. We can only rely on ourselves!" Chris muttered, his mind racing with ideas.
Sinthea sat in her office, lit a cigarette, and said, "The trucking industry is the only one that hasn't been overrun by piracy. Honey, what other businesses do you think we can pursue?"
"It's time to find some additional allies. The black market must be maintained; someone will always be involved, and we'll earn enough money. Let's stabilize the situation first. If they want to compete, let them. Let's gather our client resources and explore other industries. I'll go see Howard later and see if we can meet other wealthy individuals. The transportation industry still has great potential!" Chris' eyes shimmered with determination.
After a brief conversation, Chris ended the call and tapped his fingers on the desk, lost in thought.
...
Howard had been quite busy lately, with industrial orders pouring in. Chris, on the other hand, frequented various parties, seeking channels to sell military orders.
"What's the matter, kid?" Howard stepped out of the lab, seemingly working on some experiment.
"Nothing, just wanted to ask if you know any businessmen in Gotham City," Chris smiled.
Howard glanced up and down at Chris. "I suggest you go to Metropolis instead of Gotham City. Although thirty percent of the U.S. economy comes from Gotham City, the darkness there is beyond what you can imagine. Don't go there and get yourself killed."
"Alright, actually, I came to see your latest development, the Arc Reactor." Chris shrugged, keeping his intentions hidden.
Inside the laboratory was a massive circular current device—the renowned Arc Reactor, the energy source that powered Iron Man's armor.
If this type of energy could be realized, at least for now, it would be a highly sought-after commodity.
"This is my good friend and collaborator, Anton Vanko!" Howard introduced.
Anton, a Soviet man who appeared somewhat frail, shook hands with Chris. "Hello, Chris. I've heard Howard mention your name before."
"Hello, Anton. You're quite famous yourself. Is the Arc Reactor complete?" Chris turned to look at the circular device.
"Not yet. We're just getting started. Why, are you interested in joining?" Howard teased, pouring himself a glass of red wine.
"No, I want to buy it, I want the right to use it, and I want to be involved in the subsequent development!" Chris thought to himself. If that was the case, he needed to make a move sooner rather than later.
Howard's eyes flickered for a moment. "This product has great potential, but it's not cheap. It's not just my patent alone; you'll have to ask Anton."
"What do you say, Anton?" Chris turned to ask.
Anton smiled and replied, "As long as I get paid, I don't mind, but you can't spread it around. The practical use still has a long way to go, and the complex calculations are giving us a headache."
This thing couldn't be achieved with just a computer. Computers were only invented after World War II, and their computing power was still not that impressive. To complete the Arc Reactor was indeed a difficult task. The later versions of Iron Man's suit only perfected the Arc Reactor with the help of more powerful computers.
Having a brilliant mind required corresponding hardware configurations; otherwise, it would be a lonely endeavor.
"Alright, I'll offer one billion US dollars. Each of you will get five hundred million. Is that price acceptable? I'm just optimistic about its future. Whether it can be put into practical use is another matter, and even if it can, there's still the issue of turning it into a profitable venture." Chris laid it all out on the table.
Howard and Anton exchanged glances, seemingly discussing something.
Howard didn't lack money at all, and giving Chris face was also giving face to a business partner. Did he, an arms dealer, think highly of this five hundred million?
Anton, on the other hand, had a different reaction. His eyes even turned slightly red. He had never seen so much money in his life. "I have no objections."
"Since that's the case, it's sold to you. Where's your money?" Howard poured three glasses of wine, a celebratory gesture.
"Of course, it will be deducted from the dividends." Chris said, never considering putting in money himself.
Howard rolled his eyes. "You're trying to take advantage!"
"What are you talking about? I'm also a shareholder, and I'll have my share of the dividends. With so many patents, hehe, it's enough to make a fortune. And with stocks and other things, I can easily make billions just by sitting at home." Chris laughed.
...
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