After a few days, SpectraSys's success with Vito was beginning to make waves. The impeccable reports and swift solutions had left a strong impression. However, the complete absence of public information about SpectraSys only fueled curiosity and mystery.
---
In Vito's meeting room, the executives were discussing the recent contract with SpectraSys. The CEO, visibly pleased with the results, displayed a slight smile as he looked at his subordinates.
"Their work is exceptional" he declared. "But this whole SpectraSys situation bothers me. How can a team this talented remain so discreet? No office, no website, nothing."
The technical director nodded thoughtfully. "It doesn't make sense. Maybe they're trying to avoid being tracked, but... it also makes them harder to control."
"If we could fully integrate them under our supervision, that would be ideal," added the operations director. "They'd become a strategic asset for us."
The CEO frowned. "Very well. Find a way to approach them. We need—"
The door suddenly opened, interrupting the discussion. A man in a perfectly tailored suit entered, followed by two assistants. His commanding presence and aura silenced the room instantly.
This man, Richard D'Armand, was one of the wealthiest and most influential figures in the country. His empire spanned real estate, finance, and new technologies.
"Gentlemen," he declared in a calm but authoritative voice. "I'm here to speak with SpectraSys."
A heavy silence fell over the room. The CEO of Vito, initially surprised, tried to conceal his discomfort. "Mr. D'Armand, it's an honor to have you here. But... SpectraSys isn't directly accessible through our offices."
Richard fixed him with an amused smile. "I'm aware. But since I know they've worked with you, you'll help me get in touch with them."
The man's direct tone left little room for negotiation. The CEO quickly nodded. "Of course, we'll do everything we can to connect you."
---
Alex was quickly informed of Richard D'Armand's visit through a direct call from Vito. The businessman demanded a meeting, and Alex, true to his nature, adapted without difficulty.
A few hours later, he welcomed D'Armand in a carefully arranged temporary space.
The wealthy man entered, his eyes analyzing every detail of the room. Alex greeted him with a calm smile, inviting him to sit.
"Pleasure to meet you, Mr. D'Armand. I'm Alex, the representative of SpectraSys."
D'Armand wasted no time on unnecessary pleasantries. "I'll be direct, Alex. I've heard about your work for Vito. Impressive. I own a network of companies across several industries, and I want SpectraSys to handle cybersecurity for all of them. I want a contract, with regular follow-ups. But before that, I need to meet your team."
Without giving Alex time to respond, he continued:
"No offense, Mr. Representative, but you don't look like someone capable of managing cybersecurity vulnerabilities. You must be excellent in business, which is why they've allowed you to represent them. But as a businessman myself, I need to ensure my companies are in good hands."
Alex remained unfazed, the smile never leaving his face. He took a moment to adjust his cuffs before responding calmly:
"I understand your concerns, Mr. D'Armand. However, SpectraSys operates differently from traditional companies. Our expertise is built on unparalleled efficiency, and our results speak for themselves. You've seen what we accomplished with Vito in record time."
Richard frowned, slightly unsettled by Alex's composure. "True, but seeing is different from believing. I want tangible proof, not just reports."
Alex nodded slightly, as if he'd expected this response. "I'm afraid meeting the team isn't possible. We have a strict protocol to protect our talent's identities. However, if you have doubts, I propose a test: choose one of your most complex systems. SpectraSys will analyze its vulnerabilities and provide solutions. If you're satisfied, we can discuss the contract terms."
D'Armand raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A test, you say? Interesting. And if you fail?"
"We don't make mistakes," Alex replied with icy confidence. "But if it happens, you'll have every reason to look elsewhere."
The wealthy investor leaned forward slightly, a sly smile on his lips. "Very well. I like your audacity, Alex. Be prepared, because my expectations are high."
---
Meanwhile, Vito's executives, who had initially hoped to dominate SpectraSys, watched the scene with unease. The arrival of someone as influential as Richard D'Armand forced them to reconsider their ambitions.
"If D'Armand wants to work with them, we must abandon the idea of controlling them," the CEO admitted, visibly frustrated. "It's better to establish a solid collaboration. Prepare a new proposal. SpectraSys is an asset we can't afford to lose."
---
Alex returned to the studio to report the events to Lassen. As usual, he found his master lounging in his armchair, engrossed in a novel.
"Master, we have a new opportunity. Richard D'Armand wants an contract to manage the cybersecurity for all his companies."
Lassen didn't even look up. "And? You handled it, didn't you?"
"Yes," Alex replied calmly. "I proposed a test to evaluate our efficiency. The documents for the final contract will follow."
"Perfect," Lassen replied, turning another page. "Don't bother me about it. You handle SpectraSys however you see fit. No more reports on it."
Alex nodded and quietly exited the studio.
---
Later that evening, Lassen closed his novel with a satisfied smile. He sank deeper into his chair, reflecting on the story he had just read.
"That protagonist… an academic master, respected and feared by everyone. Not bad" he murmured.
He looked up at the ceiling, a mischievous smile forming on his lips.
"System, I have an idea. I want to become an academic master. Solve impossible problems, things people think are insurmountable."
[Ah, of course. After reaching the pinnacle of laziness, you now want to conquer mathematics. A perfectly logical ambition, host.]
Lassen burst out laughing. "Exactly. Get ready, we're going to have some fun."