Two days later, Reiko Nakamura invited Haruto and Aiko to her high-rise office in Osaka. The room was an expanse of glass and steel, offering a breathtaking view of the city. Everything about the space radiated power and success, a stark reminder of what Aurora Dynamics aspired to achieve.
Reiko greeted them with her usual confidence, gesturing for them to sit at the long conference table. Beside her sat her legal advisor, a middle-aged man with a calculating gaze. Aiko had come prepared with documents and notes, her expression calm but focused.
"Let's cut to the chase," Reiko began, sliding a slim folder across the table. "This is our proposal. My team and I are prepared to invest ¥200 million in Aurora Dynamics for a 30% stake. In return, I'll provide access to my manufacturing facilities, supply chains, and market connections. With me as your partner, you'll have the resources to mass-produce your energy crystals and outpace your competition."
Haruto and Aiko exchanged a glance before Aiko picked up the folder and scanned its contents.
"This is a generous offer," Aiko said diplomatically. "But 30% is a significant share of our company. We'd prefer something closer to 20%, with a tiered return based on milestones."
Reiko raised an eyebrow, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Bold. But understandable. Let's hear your terms."
---
A Battle of Wits
The next two hours were a whirlwind of counteroffers, questions, and calculations. Reiko proved to be a formidable negotiator, pushing hard for her original terms while skillfully dismantling any weaknesses in Aurora Dynamics' arguments.
Aiko held her ground, her voice steady as she presented alternatives and emphasized the value of the technology. Haruto, though less experienced in business negotiations, chimed in when the discussion turned to technical specifics, his passion for the project shining through.
"We're not just asking for investment," Aiko said firmly. "We're offering a chance to be part of something groundbreaking. The potential returns far outweigh the initial risk."
Reiko studied her for a long moment, then leaned back in her chair. "You're good," she admitted. "Fine. I'll agree to 25%, with the tiered return structure you suggested. But I want a clause that ensures my input on major strategic decisions."
Aiko hesitated, then nodded. "Agreed. We'll review the specifics with our legal team, but this works for us."
Reiko extended her hand. "Then we have a deal."
Haruto shook her hand, a mix of relief and determination washing over him. This partnership would change everything.
---
New Allies, New Challenges
With the deal finalized, Reiko wasted no time integrating her resources into Aurora Dynamics. Within days, her manufacturing facilities were retrofitted to produce the energy crystals, and her team of engineers began collaborating with Mina to refine the designs for mass production.
For the first time, Haruto felt like they were operating on equal footing with the industry giants. But the newfound momentum came with its own set of complications.
Mina, fiercely protective of her designs, clashed frequently with Reiko's engineers over technical decisions. Aiko, juggling her role as CFO with the added responsibilities of managing the partnership, began to show signs of exhaustion.
Even Haruto struggled to adapt to the rapid pace of change. Meetings with Reiko's team consumed his days, leaving him little time for the hands-on work he loved.
"This is what we wanted," Aiko reminded him one evening as they sat in the workshop, reviewing progress reports. "If we want to succeed, we have to adapt."
Haruto nodded, though the words didn't fully ease his unease.
---
The Competition Strikes
Meanwhile, Tatsumaki Energy was ramping up its efforts. Reports surfaced of their own crystal-based prototype nearing completion, and rumors hinted at an upcoming public demonstration.
"They're trying to beat us to market," Aiko said, slamming a printout onto the table during a team meeting. "If they succeed, they'll dominate the narrative, no matter how good our product is."
Haruto's mind raced. "Then we need to move faster. What's the earliest we can schedule our own demonstration?"
Reiko, who had joined the meeting via video call, frowned. "Rushing could backfire. We need to ensure everything is perfect. One misstep could ruin your credibility."
"She's right," Mina added. "We're close, but there are still a few stability issues to address. Give me two weeks, and I'll have them solved."
Haruto sighed, torn between caution and urgency. "Alright. Two weeks. But we can't afford any delays."
---
A Fateful Encounter
Later that week, Haruto attended a technology summit in Tokyo, hoping to network and gather intelligence on Tatsumaki Energy's plans. The event was a sprawling affair, with representatives from dozens of companies showcasing their latest innovations.
As Haruto wandered through the exhibition hall, he spotted a familiar face: Hideo Takahashi, the head of research at Tatsumaki Energy. Hideo was a charismatic figure in the industry, known for his charm and ruthlessness.
To Haruto's surprise, Hideo approached him with a smile.
"Haruto Sakamoto," he said, extending a hand. "I've been hearing a lot about Aurora Dynamics lately. Impressive work."
Haruto shook his hand warily. "Thank you. I've heard Tatsumaki Energy is working on something similar."
Hideo's smile widened. "Competition breeds innovation, doesn't it? But let me give you some friendly advice: the energy market is cutthroat. You'd better make sure you're ready for what's coming."
With that, Hideo walked away, leaving Haruto with a sinking feeling in his stomach.
---