Bab 196: Chapter 196: Developing the Hong Kong Business
Hardy arrived at the Screen Actors Guild office in Hollywood, which was very convenient for him. The six-story building had been prepared for his arrival. The office of the former chairman had been vacated, and Hardy had instructed the staff to tidy up and move in immediately.
The union's management was already in place. With the existing staff, the union now employed a total of 60 people. They held an inaugural meeting in the conference room.
The meeting was straightforward. Hardy briefly introduced himself, and the staff, who had already heard of him, treated him with respect.
After the meeting, Hardy delegated responsibilities to George and Li Gen. He would not involve himself in the day-to-day operations but required reports on significant events.
Leaving the actors' union, Hardy was escorted by bodyguards to the auction company. For safety, he was always accompanied by bodyguards when going out. The driver and co-pilot also had bodyguards, making a total of six people ensuring his safety. With his own skills and this level of protection, Hardy felt confident he could handle most threats.
At Han Yezhen's office, the female secretary stood up as Hardy entered. He smiled and told her to sit down, and she complied.
Hardy was there to meet Han Yezhen, who had recently found a new secretary, Irina. Hardy greeted her with a bouquet of flowers.
"Congratulations on becoming the chairman of the actors' union," Han Yezhen said, accepting the flowers.
"I appreciate it. Have you received any interesting items recently?" Hardy asked.
"Yes, I've received many high-quality antiques. Let me show you," Han Yezhen replied, placing the flowers in a vase.
They proceeded to the treasure room, where a variety of antiques were displayed. Han Yezhen showed Hardy ancient paintings. "These are authentic, as verified by Master Yuan," she said, pointing out works by renowned artists.
Hardy was impressed by the collection. He approached Han Yezhen and took her hand. She was slightly startled but did not pull away, continuing to describe the antiques.
Hardy observed Han Yezhen's profile, her skin glowing, and smiled to himself. If she didn't resist, it was a sign of agreement.
They spent time together, reviewing the antiques and discussing their value. Han Yezhen mentioned that recent events had led to an influx of valuable items. "Many wealthy individuals fled the country and brought valuable items with them, which they are now selling."
Hardy understood the timing. It was November 1947, and many were escaping the turmoil. He saw an opportunity in Hong Kong, a primary destination for those fleeing. "I agree with your suggestion to set up an acquisition company in Hong Kong. You're right; we would have access to more valuable items there."
Han Yezhen noted that she had not yet found the right person to manage the operation. Hardy suggested Victor, a shrewd individual who had proven reliable in the past. "Victor would be ideal. His flexibility and experience make him a good fit."
Han Yezhen was initially skeptical but agreed to consider Victor. Hardy explained that Victor had experience and was well-connected, making him suitable for managing the operation in Hong Kong.
"Victor will need to be accompanied by eight security personnel from HD Security. They will serve as his bodyguards and assistants," Hardy said. "I'll provide him with $500,000—$490,000 in a Citibank account and $10,000 in cash for travel expenses."
Hardy also advised finding a suitable storage facility for the antiques and purchasing land in Hong Kong, which would likely increase in value.
After providing detailed instructions, Hardy called Victor to discuss the new role. Victor expressed eagerness and commitment to excel in the position.
With the arrangements made, Hardy and Han Yezhen left the office. Han Yezhen was shy but pleased with the evening. They had dinner at a Western restaurant with soft music and dim lighting.
Afterwards, Hardy drove Han Yezhen home. At her apartment, they shared a tender kiss under the street lamp. Han Yezhen, blushing, hurried inside.
Hardy smiled and left, feeling satisfied with the progress on their new business venture.
Bab 197: Chapter 197: Baker McKenzie International Law Firm
Three days passed quickly, and George and Li Gen updated Hardy on the situation with the Screen Actors Guild.
"The actors' union currently has $450,000 in funding. Last year, it collected a total of $1.35 million in dues. This year should be even higher," George reported.
Li Genhui added, "I've reviewed the union complaints and have over 700 cases, including issues like unpaid wages, low pay, sexual harassment, unfair contracts, and physical abuse."
He continued, "We received two particularly troubling complaints yesterday. One girl, Luna, claimed that she and her friend signed with a brokerage company where the broker repeatedly coerced them into sexual relations. They were trapped by their contract and couldn't escape."
"Another complaint involves a girl who was abused by a director. This director, contracted by Columbia Pictures, has made several well-known films, including one nominated for an Oscar."
"The girl said she was a supporting actress in one of his movies. The director physically abused her in front of the crew, slapped her several times, and forced her to perform a particularly demanding scene."
"Afterwards, the director threatened her in his hotel room, saying if she didn't comply, he would ruin her career and sue her for breach of contract."
"Under his threats, she reluctantly complied with his demands on four separate occasions. She also reported that he used various tools to inflict pain and often left her bruised."
Hardy nodded thoughtfully. "For unpaid wages, the union should send a formal letter to the film companies, setting a deadline for payment. If the companies fail to comply, the union will take legal action."
"For the issues with the brokerage company, we should hire HD Security's intelligence personnel to investigate the broker. Gather evidence, take photos, and make a documentary if possible. This will not only bring attention to the actors' union but also provide good publicity."
"As for the director, since he's associated with one of the major film studios, we should make this case public. I'll find a lawyer to represent the girl in her lawsuit. Even if there's limited evidence, we'll make sure the director faces significant challenges."
Hardy's plan was to use the situation to set a strong precedent. By targeting a major studio, he hoped to deter other companies from mistreating actors.
"Let's make sure this issue is handled decisively," Hardy said with a smile.
He called Andy and asked him to send a top-notch lawyer. Andy mentioned, "Boss, I have two lawyers who want to start a law firm and are seeking your investment."
"Oh, interesting. What's their track record?" Hardy asked.
"They're excellent. Both graduated from Yale Law School and have consistently performed well. They're eager to start their own firm," Andy replied.
"Have them come over. I'd like to meet them," Hardy said.
In the afternoon, Hardy met with Ross Baker and John McKenzie in his office. Both were in their thirties and dressed in sharp suits.
"Hello, Mr. Hardy," they greeted in unison.
"Have a seat. What would you like to drink?" Hardy asked.
"Coffee would be great," they responded.
The secretary brought coffee, and Hardy began, "Andy mentioned you want to start a law firm and seek investment from me?"
"Yes, we've been working for several years and are ready to establish our own firm, similar to Mr. Andy's financial company," Ross Baker explained.
"We aim to operate independently and grow by recruiting new talent," John McKenzie added.
"And what are you proposing?" Hardy asked.
"We're seeking an investment of $500,000 for 40% of the firm's shares," McKenzie stated.
Hardy thought for a moment and responded, "I'll invest $1 million for 60% of the shares."
Baker and McKenzie were surprised by Hardy's prompt agreement, though the share percentage was more than they expected. Initially, they thought 50% would be reasonable, with 40% being a concession.
The increased investment would allow them to secure better office space, hire more staff, and accelerate the firm's growth.
"That's acceptable. We appreciate your support," McKenzie said.
Hardy was pleased. Owning a law firm would simplify many future legal matters.
"Have you decided on a name for the firm?" Hardy asked.
The two exchanged smiles. "Yes, we've chosen 'Baker McKenzie International Law Firm.' What do you think?"
Hardy was taken aback. "Baker McKenzie? The same firm that would become one of the world's largest law firms?"
He recalled that, in his previous life, he had engaged their services for legal matters. Baker McKenzie was renowned globally, with thousands of lawyers and offices in numerous countries.
"If it's truly them, this investment will be highly lucrative," Hardy thought.
"How many partners do you plan to hire?" Hardy asked.
"We've already found twelve partners," Baker replied.
"Without my investment, you would have still pursued starting the firm?" Hardy inquired.
McKenzie admitted, "Yes, we would have started the firm eventually, but it would have taken three to five years to gain traction. With your investment, we can immediately hire 40 to 50 lawyers and become a medium-sized firm, with the potential to grow into a large firm within three years."
Hardy noted the complementary skills of Baker and McKenzie, reflecting on their potential success.
"Once the Hardy Group is established, Baker McKenzie can become its contracted law firm. There will be plenty of business to handle. You should start hiring as soon as possible," Hardy advised.
Both Baker and McKenzie were thrilled. They understood the magnitude of the opportunity and were eager to get started.
"We'll work hard to provide top-notch legal services for the group," Baker assured.
Hardy was satisfied. With Baker McKenzie on board, he would have robust legal support for his various ventures.
"For the firm's establishment, I'll sign the contract once the documents are ready. In the meantime, here's a case to get you started," Hardy said, handing them the letter detailing the director's misconduct.
The two reviewed the letter. "Given the time elapsed, it might be challenging to secure a conviction. Evidence may be scarce," McKenzie said.
Hardy replied, "We don't need a conviction. The goal is to make the director's actions widely known. Assist the girl in her lawsuit, and even if we can't secure a conviction, we'll show our determination."
"Understood. We'll handle it and ensure the director faces public scrutiny," McKenzie said.
The two left, eager to begin their work. Hardy felt confident that this investment would be highly beneficial, both for him and for the newly established firm.
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