Bab 34: Part 33
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***
After I finished the project of adapting Octavius' technology, I returned home late at night. I smiled as I found Mei sleeping sweetly, and took her gently in my arms and carried her gently to her bedroom. Covering her with a blanket, I returned to the ground floor, where the TV was on. The news channels were doing their usual thing with the Ozcorp/Stark Industries conflict. All the information vultures were already eagerly discussing the topic of the clash between the two huge corporations and where it would lead. Such a hot topic will definitely raise the ratings of many channels, because it is not often that some events shake up the majority of the American public.
Having made myself a refreshing coffee, I comfortably settled down on the sofa and began to follow all the events from the most comfortable place. After all, it was a curious moment that all the television networks were in an ongoing battle for exclusives and the latest news, so you can watch the events with a cup of coffee in hand. I wonder if Harry will be able to beg his father's forgiveness or will he play the odds? Knowing Norman Osborne well enough, I can safely say that if my friend's case does not work out, Uncle Oz will eat him without salt and pepper, because he does not forgive mistakes. However, if Harry can show his self-sufficiency and ambition, his father may forgive such impudence and even reward his favourite heir. We'll see where this goes. Taking another sip, I changed the channel.
- Stark Industries is accusing Ozcorp and the respected tycoon and philanthropist Norman Osborne of copyright infringement, industrial espionage...' the energetic announcer's angry voice oozed with snake venom. - Obadiah Stein confidently promises to sort it all out and assures all shareholders dissatisfied with the current situation in the stability of the company, as well as guarantees further growth of shares. Mr Stark himself has not yet commented on the situation. But the public is waiting for the genius to come out of the shadows and end his long recluse. Billionaire Anthony Edward Stark has not left the confines of his mansion for a long time, perhaps because of captivity to terrorists and psychological trauma, or he is collecting in his basement something so grandiose that will blow up our society when Mr Stark does return. - The host smiled faintly, not hiding the sarcastic smirk on his face at all.
Why is everyone so fixated on this Stark? Is he some kind of messiah? A genius engineer and mechanic, or are there no more clever people left in the world? However, what else to expect from the owner of a multi-billion dollar corporation, so he is a person deservedly famous, but what is the point of discussing him so much, if he has long since abandoned the outside world? Well, a man wants peace, so don't dick to call him like Vikings to reign. Or does everyone need a hero so badly that they're looking for one even in Stark? Interesting thought. Many people have a habit of deifying, idealising and other ascension of essentially ordinary people that are slightly out of the grey mass. Or does it take so little to become a god?
- Adrian Tooms has come out in Ozcorp's defence and his lawyers have already made counter-accusations to Stark Industries. A slew of former Stark employees have written a group statement alleging the theft of their designs as well as intellectual property. - a pretty blonde woman was quietly covering the escalating conflict between the two corporations. - A well-known philanthropist and art connoisseur has also publicly come out in support of Norman Osborne. The Wilson Fisk Gallery of Fine Arts will open one day, as will the art school attached to it. Mr Fisk's charming wife will be giving free painting lessons to any interested Hell's Kitchen children.
How curious. So all of Osborne's supporters have come out of the shadows to hold up an old friend? Then perhaps Harry is not all lost, and if he succeeds, the old man may be able to form a company of his own, but that is still a long way off, and the conflict is in full swing. However, our efforts should not be wasted, because we have successfully adapted Otto's energy source, so they should be able to get rid of the copyright, right? All that's left is for us to do all the necessary research and prove that we're not infringing. According to Harry, it was leaked by some hired engineer who posted all the pictures of his work on the net, and there were already the first interested people, so the wave of information noise and reached Stark Industries. But bad PR is also PR, so Ozborn will get a good advert for his 'product' if he wins.
- Norman Ozborn is ready to undergo all necessary tests and prove that Stark Industries' accusations are groundless. Ozcorp's legal department is already preparing a countersuit. World renowned scientists will also gather to resolve the issue and settle the conflict between the two corporations. - J. Jonah Jameson has been covering the story with his usual fire. - The Hardy Foundation has stopped funding projects on alternative energy sources under the authorship of Dr Otto Octavius, recognising them as too dangerous and not liquid.
Otto has no luck with peaceful projects and alternative energy sources, and why did the Hardy Foundation suddenly decide to send to hell so many years of active development and field tests? When you think about it, Octavius was almost at the finish line. Yes, and the project of a full-fledged power supply for Harry's suit is proof of that, but no, something went wrong. Maybe I should invest in his little alternative energy company. I'll have money after I sell the gold, and I've got some now, too, because our doctor's projects are very promising, and he's a good man, even if he's a little twisted at work, so it's a pity they treated him like that and threw him out like a disgruntled kitten on the street.
Perhaps Miss Hardy was pressurised by the oil giants? After all, Otto's work put their entire fortune, influence and assets at risk of collapse, as did many of the industries involved, but was it that simple, or did the foundation decide not to give any more resources to such a slow-moving project? Sometimes 'optimisation' is worse than any enemy or devious intrigue. But it's not my business, so I'll have to help the doctor if I can, and judging by my memories, he appreciates kindness and always tries to return the favour for the favour. So to get such an experienced specialist will not be superfluous, because when people faithfully and truly work for you, then productivity increases to unprecedented heights.
- Consortium V.E.N.O.M. under the leadership of Dr Connors opens a network of closed clinics, that by experimental methodology will be able to treat the terminally ill and lost limbs, replacing them with organic prostheses indistinguishable from the real ones. Perhaps it's time for neogenics to flourish, friends. - J. Jonah Jameson smiled unaccustomedly warmly, which surprised me more than the news itself, because who would have thought that this old dry man is so worried about ordinary people, or is it just a publicity stunt? - Now we can save everyone. If you are desperate and have lost all hope for a miracle, you can sign up for the test trials at...
How interesting, is local medicine really that advanced? Might be worth reading up on sometime. Connors? Something vaguely familiar. But it can't be our professor, can it? And there aren't many Connorses in the country, are there? And there's some sort of consortium, some sort of meeting of doctors and pharmacists? Who the hell knows? But it sounds interesting, so it's worth looking into. I mean, you can use this kind of technology for your own good. And good old-fashioned industrial espionage, too. However, while there are more important things to do, and it is worth to sort out my own armour, because with all these events I'm not up to it, and I'm not even talking about genetic improvements of myself or 'suit'.
- Only Mrs Gao has the best medicines from Asia. - Wandering through the channels in search of fresh news, I came across a smiling Chinese woman in the traditional clothes of the Celestial Kingdom. - Courier delivery on the day of order. Hurry the goods are limited. - Pensively studying the girl's cold gaze, which would be more suitable for a professional killer than such a young person, I only sparingly hummed, my gut says that it's not that simple, but what's the point?
Or is it just me being paranoid? I don't know, but I can feel it in my gut. But that's none of my business either, so I don't care. Silently I switched to the next channel and sipped my coffee.
- We'll be live with Obdai Stein in just a few seconds, so stay tuned. - A charming brunette winked at me sweetly from the news channel screen. -
- Tony's alive. - The switch-on had started quite suddenly, and perhaps the shaven-headed big man himself hadn't expected it, so he looked a little shabby, and his tartan beard was a little scruffy.
- I spoke to him the other day, and he's planning to start teaching. Can you imagine our Tony teaching someone? - Stein's smile flashed dazzlingly in the frame. - There is nothing wrong with the company either, so our shareholders have nothing to worry about and we will quickly sort out all the adversities. - Obadiah said confidently.
- Obadiah, what can you tell us about the arc reactor that caused the conflict? It is possible that fake pictures could have been leaked online? - The journalist asked confidently.
- I personally saw a similar reactor at Tony's place, so there is a clear industrial espionage, and we must seize from Ozcorp everything that is ours by right. Tony's work belongs to Stark Industries and only to Stark Industries. - replied Stein brutally. - And I won't let Ozborn or anyone else steal from under my nose. Howard would agree with me. That's why we will win...' quickly referring to the dead founder, Obadiah abruptly cut off the video call.
I'm curious where this is going. The most important thing is that it's obvious to the naked eye that Stein is bluffing on live TV, but then why is he doing this? He wants the blueprints for an arc reactor? That doesn't make sense. But who knows what this peddler is after, and he is nothing but a clever businessman who promotes the company and 'consumer goods'. However, perhaps this is the kind of person that many corporations need. After all, if Hammer had the same man with the grip of a bulldog, he might not seem so pathetic, but that's his choice. He wants to be a clown, let him be. Soon an energetic motif interrupted my thoughts and I did turn my attention to the smartphone.
- Pete, I've just patented an arc reactor for a Taiwanese firm. Can you believe it? It was still nobody's. - Harry's nervous laughter finally brought me out of my reverie. - And yes you can congratulate me, now I officially work for the newly created company 'Iron Legion' or T I L. It may not be my company, but that's just a convention for the duration of the trial. - Ozborn hummed contentedly, making it clear that he didn't intend to remain not the 'head' of the company for too long. - By the way, T I L has a vacancy for a consultant, so I could put in a good word for you and have a word with the boss. I promised you a position, didn't I? - Harry seemed to smile for a second. - Pete? Are you alive in there?
***
To my deepest regret, I didn't get to hang out with the nosy student. It wasn't a good time, either, but that's the way life is. You just have to accept the draw and move on like any self-respecting reasonable person. But I wonder where he got his strength, agility, and speed. I could have snapped him like a reed, but he kept on fighting. Even though I didn't want him to die, it was still quite close, so I should think about it in detail and try to recruit such a curious young man more gently. Otherwise, what kind of a sensible person am I if I can't get the boy on my side? Diplomacy is a necessary thing, even if it is sometimes underestimated, and yet it is damn useful when you want to show soft power, because if you forget about the ability to negotiate, we can easily slip into a savage society where 'word' is worth nothing. But who needs worthless agreements and obligations?
That is why you need to back up your 'word' with force, because it will always help you to find a suitable 'argument' for the situation. As one comedian said: you can achieve more with a good word and a revolver than with a good word alone. He may have put a different meaning into it, but people understood his words in their own way. That's how an innocent joke became a credo for a lot of people and it's funny as hell. I used to think it was Grandpa Colt's words and I too believed in the power of guns. Now, having gained wisdom, I began to understand much more, because the colt alone is not much to hope for, and your opponent may also have a gun. That's why you have to be more flexible, cunning and thoughtful than your enemies, but I still haven't given up the basic concept that any 'word' must be backed up by force and no other way. After a couple of wars, you start to think a little differently and not as formulaic as all the 'peaceful' people, but over time, force becomes an integral part of you, even though I took an oath to save the lives of soldiers and civilians, but it does not prevent me from taking them from my opponents.
Sometimes duty is more important than oaths, but now I don't owe this country anything, but I have obligations to a whole species, so I have to choose, and no matter if it's more evil, less evil or something in between, the choice always puts you in a bad position. On the other hand, you can start your life with a clean slate, isn't that what many of us dream of? To leave behind all the mistakes and choices that broke them and start from scratch? However, I have never agreed with these losers, because life is a path that must be travelled to the end and no matter how painful, sad or madly lonely it will be, sooner or later you will come to your goal or die halfway to the finish line, that's how life is. But I'm getting distracted. Meditation does seem to be a good way of clearing my mind, but now is not the time to think about the meaning of life, especially when you're not looking for it. I'll eventually recruit this guy, or at least 'take him apart', because I'm still wondering why he's so fast and not inferior to me in strength.
But we'll get to that later. I've got more important things to do right now. Even though it was a draw, I'll be more convincing next time. The main thing is not to accidentally break the little man, because such a curious specimen does not come along very often, but I will get my own in any of the outcomes. After all, my 'research' always needs new 'material' so that when one door closes, five others always open. Even if it is not what I wanted, but I will be satisfied with any outcome, because a 'reasonable' person can profit even from an initially losing event. The question is only in the approach, as my interest is purely scientific, and the 'material' will do any quality and condition.
Having finished the meditation to restore my nerve cells and clear my mind of unnecessary thoughts, I left the trance and slowly got up. Stretching out the muscles that had tightened during the meditation, I yawned, breaking into a low growl. Quickly stretching and leisurely completing another set of exercises to tone and invigorate myself, I returned to my office. Once again, standing at the mirror, I pondered what to put on for the negotiations, as unpleasant as it was to go to them, it was still an important part of my plan. On the other hand I don't often have business meetings with an entire prince, and if all goes well, we'll be getting a nice base near Europe and a loyal government.
I returned to my human form, but only grumbled irritably. The nanites were working properly, even if I remembered to check them periodically for surprises, but so far everything was stable and my firmware was working properly. Once again, after shedding my skin, I stretched again, getting used to the human body. After taking a shower, I went back to choosing clothes. Since this time I had to negotiate with a politician, I could safely do without the armoured suit, and just take my 'people' for backup, or whoever wanted to interfere with our negotiations, and I didn't want to lose such a valuable 'ally' at least for now.
Even though I'm tired of pretending, this will be an extremely important meeting, so I'll have to be patient again and 'match' my interlocutor. On the other hand, it's not that difficult if you know what to expect from a person. The information gathered in advance allowed to prepare for this meeting quite well. Since our prince is not in the most favourable position for him now, he will make any deal with anyone who offers to give him back what is his by birthright. But I will not be greedy and take only the bare minimum, and then my plan will take effect. Once we have a secure rear and a foothold for further expansion, we can create a perfect base for our species, where no one will interfere with us.
Studying the prince with my eyes, I immediately realised that he had trapped himself, if the information from our agents was to be believed, he had overplayed his hand in democracy, so he had been overthrown. Since the kid was too soft, he failed to suppress the rebellion of his own army, it's good that he was not executed. Without influence money and allies, the prince looked extremely pathetic. The cheap second hand suit only emphasised his position. However, for me it was a plus, because by lending a helping hand, I could get a very interested 'ally' as well as his whole country. Perhaps, someone will say that intrigues and coups are lowly, but having an opportunity to get something for nothing, what sense to refuse it? And isn't it madness to lose a whole state, which, if it comes to fruition, will be all yours? Maybe revolution is a bit out of my league, but what's stopping me from putting a 'loyal' monarch back on the throne?
My boys are enough for a small and victorious war, so we just need to get the conditions right and we'll invade these desert lands. And no more democracy, we've played the game and that's it. Only total dictatorship, which will be aimed at the prosperity of the state, culture and the people themselves, and it is not necessarily that the majority of citizens will not be pure 'people'. After all, there is no other way to deal with savages, and by showing weakness like so much loved by many 'democracy' you will only provoke new uprisings or worse revolution and as a result the overthrow of the monarch. But we don't need that, so we'll stop everything at the root. After all, the best fight is the one we don't have. Good, having a network of various clinics, where we return people's former abilities can actively recruit worthy representatives of the human race. And if you think about it, we don't treat everyone, not everyone, otherwise what's the point of purges if you help various scum? I have nothing against ordinary people and I only want to save our civilisation, but to do that I will have to destroy another civilisation, but I am ready to pay the price.
The black boy was silently staring at me. His eyes were filled with both hope and a barely contained fear of the unknown. When you lose everything, you start to see things a little differently, one way or another. And this is good in the current situation, because soon we will have to completely 'break' this person with blue blood otherwise the puppet from this once pompous 'reformer' may not come out. But there's nothing to be done about it, so we'll have to use a little blood for a softer takeover, because why shed rivers of blood when we can do with the broken mind of one person? With a predatory smile, I immediately noticed the boy flinch. Had I really become that scary in human form? Or is it my predatory nature that much more pervasive? Smiling more softly, but no less predatory, I spoke.
- Calm down, Prince, I don't bite.
- You don't look like you do. - The boy hurriedly looked away from my smirk. - Monsieur, but how can you help me, and where do you get such resources? - The prince again expressed his disbelief. - The general has a whole army with equipment, weapons and aircraft, and I don't have even two quid to eat. - The boy smiled sadly and his stomach rumbled demandingly.
I snapped my fingers and called the waiter. Quickly ordering a light soup and a strong coffee for myself, I looked at the prince thoughtfully again. And this lowlife I plan to put on the throne of the whole state? However, he still has some legitimacy, and there is no choice, so I will have to endure this 'misunderstanding', but it will not take long.
- I'm just a humble professor with an army of monsters that will seize for you what is yours by right. - Adding a little pathos and flattery to my voice, I began to process the 'reformer'. - My explorations are not always safe and humane, so in helping you, I am first and foremost helping myself. It's simple, isn't it? So I can help you.
- Nonsense...' the boy snorted immediately.
- Not at all. - I calmly shut the prince up without letting him say a word.
With a snap of my fingers, I ordered everyone out of the shadows, and soon the empty hall of the old theatre was filled with lizards. We were in the cafeteria, but it didn't interfere with the beautiful architecture of the abode of art and culture. All the human agents quickly disappeared into the crowd of tall lizards that inspired awe and fear.
- Monsters, indeed...' the boy said in amazement. - So you'll help me get my power back? - he whispered in a breath of hope.
- Exactly. - I said coldly.
- But what do you want in return? - When he realised that we were not playing games, he spoke more seriously.
- Just a little. The position of counsellor and the possibility of legalising my boys through your country. - That's where the bulk of my plan begins, but you don't need to know that.
- That's it? But why do you want all this? I don't get it...' said the confused prince, but I just smiled again, and the guy once again twitched at my predatory grin.
- Sometimes official status is essential, my prince, so that's enough for me. As a doctor, I can't allow a humanitarian disaster in your country, so just let me help people. After all, only a legitimate authority has the right to rule a nation. - I pressed his 'democrat' nature and his shabby ambitions to be recognised as part of the civilised world.
- You are a very noble man, monsieur. Rest assured that I will not forget your kindness and will appreciate such honourable help. - The boy smiled sincerely, not believing in his own luck.
- And I will help you not to forget. - Having shaken hands and having signed a small contract for the effect I grabbed the boy and went away, because now it remains only to capture a couple of deserts and impoverished cities, and to knock out the military junta, and then it is possible to remember about my plans.
Having sent the boy to anabiosis, I started preparing for a 'small' invasion. Using all the influence and money available to me, I rented Ozcorp transport planes for the transfer of ground forces. Wearing heavy armour, I thoughtfully contemplated the monotonous view from the porthole. Slowly plugging in all of the exoskeleton's systems, I began checking the servos and motors. Removing the helmet from its charger, I activated the powerful visors with the 'friend/foe' auto-detection system. Having emptied the armoury, I headed towards the guys, who were also fully armed. Seeing the satisfied eyes of the old warriors, I smiled, it looked like it was time to put our little army to the test. Fastening a small jetpack on my back, I began to prepare for the jump.
Jumping out of the plane without a shadow of a doubt, I immediately activated the jetpack and rushed towards the ground even faster. It felt great to fly. As I approached the ground, I switched engines and began a smooth descent into the former palace where the local autocrats had lived for centuries. Quickly grabbing a miniature assault rifle with an integrated silencer, I began the sweep. The first to be eliminated were the sentries who were serenely sleeping at their posts. Having quietly finished all the guards we, without any problems, got into the barracks, and as if some shadows cut the throats of the entire garrison. But some sleepy sergeant, who had apparently gone for a bathroom break, fired a shot at one of our boys, thus raising the alarm. Quickly switching from silent weapons to high-powered plasma rifles, we began an all-out sweep. Overwhelmed by the enemy's firepower, we still managed to mop up the soldiers from the neighbouring barracks and move on.
After securing ourselves against the palace walls, we immediately opened a barrage of plasma rifle fire, literally burning everything and everyone in our path. The surviving soldiers were still trying to fight back, but they had nothing to counter us. With each new shot I took another life and calmly moved on to the next target. But our 'shooting gallery' was interrupted by the sudden arrival of heavy vehicles and armoured vehicles, and then the capital's special forces hit us in the rear. Finding ourselves literally squeezed from all sides, we began to use vacuum grenades. Raising the power of the exoskeleton to a critical level, I was able to increase the speed and strength of the jump to get closer to the tanks and give them a couple of destructive 'guests'.
After blowing up all the armoured vehicles at the palace walls, we continued the offensive towards the general's quarters, killing the rest of the special forces. Even though they were a little better than soldiers, but it did not save them. The plasma rifles killed anyone who got in our way. If we had such toys during the Vietnam campaign, we definitely would have brought them 'democracy' and not taken away so many good guys in zinc coffins. But what can you do, that was a different war and a completely different level of technology. Activating another grenade, I immediately threw it at the machine gun nest at the entrance. With aimed shots, knocking out the new snipers, I calmly move on.
With better defences, we advanced into the heart of the palace without any losses or delays. The natives' automatic rifles could do nothing against our armour, which could hold even a machine-gun line, even if there was a chance that your organs would be blown to hell and your ribs would be broken, but the level of protection itself was a great advantage. But it was better not to get hit by something so large-calibre, just in case. After disconnecting the dead battery, I quickly replaced it with a full one and continued my sweep. Admittedly, I didn't think it would be so easy, but on the other hand, we were well prepared for the assault, so it's not surprising. Soon the dictator's quarters appeared, I kicked the door open and saw a lean man in a dressing gown with a pistol in his hand. Putting down my rifle, I calmly approach the man, ignoring the pistol shots at point-blank range, gently tapping him on the head with the butt of my rifle, I transmit over the comms that the target has been captured and the 'bird' can drop its load.
Having captured the general, we achieved a complete surrender of the capital garrison, part of the military and the remnants of the police. Having dropped many crates with weapons, supplies, various electronics and a small amount of equipment, as well as a capsule with the prince in anabiosis, the birds went back to the Ozkorp base, because the contract was fulfilled. Having entrenched at the palace, we began a systematic capture of the city, even though the population mostly didn't care who was at the helm, but various underdogs and revolutionaries should be caught as soon as possible, otherwise they will start their destructive activities with triple force.
At dawn the air force of one colonel appeared and tried to fight off his commander, but we quickly brought them down to earth with EMP cannon shots, burning out all working electronics in the area. Putting the cannon back in the box, I grinned, it seemed like a couple of hours of active combat and the enemy army was already completely destroyed, so we just had to finish off the rest of the renegades, bandits and other disgruntled guys, and then we could restore order. Pensively contemplating the capsule with the sleeping prince, I was still pondering whether it was worth it to return the power to him, but once again, humming, I decided not to deviate from the plan.
We quickly cleaned up the police and administration in the city, and then there was a new coronation of the prince, who was surprised to understand what was going on and why we had so quickly taken back his capital. Seeing the unconcealed shock, I only smiled imperceptibly. Giving the kid a gun, I left him alone with the captured general. After being overthrown, the prince will obviously reconsider his views and perhaps give up the 'democratic' way, because people betrayed him, so why try and do something for them? And I will help him to find new interests, as far away from politics and new reforms as possible, otherwise what kind of 'counsellor' am I?
Having gathered the militia, which will become meat in case of danger, we started to suppress the rebellion in other regions. By subjugating region after region and controlling all water sources and entrepots, we suppressed the disgruntled quite quickly and strung up all those responsible. Thus ended the civil war in this desolate country. Quickly cruel and showy, but how else, because savages don't understand clever words, and probably don't know your language either, so it remains only to show strength by the carrot and stick method. Having deployed a network of agents all over the country, I began to collect all kinds of information and identify all the dissatisfied and possible revolutionaries, because now this is my country and I am responsible for all those 'resources' that are left.
Having occupied the main military base of the country for my needs, and having disbanded the whole army, I started to prepare for the creation of the main laboratory. Even though our dungeons in New York and ungodly cramped, but for now they also can not be left, otherwise we will lose an extremely convenient bridgehead in the heart of America, and this I would not want. Here we will be free to pursue our projects, and I will be able to do all kinds of research and new experiments without fear. After all, my projects are not always safe, and sometimes even destructive, so the military base is ideal, and who needs it now, if I disbanded the entire army in advance? Now even if the prince wants to get rid of me, there's no one to help him. The military is completely abolished, the police consists of people selected by me, and ordinary citizens have more important things to do, the opposition is also destroyed, so nothing will prevent my strengthening in this godforsaken country. Having unsealed the army warehouses, I started to help the local population with food, clean water, medicine and clothes, because, seeing their miserable situation, even a cynic like me wanted to help these poor savages.
However, my actions had not only humanistic motives, but also a purely practical approach, because if you want to eat, drink or get something else, then just work, that's how we started to rebuild the destroyed capital and other important infrastructure. With millions of hungry and inherently unemployed people, we started the construction of the century. Even if there were dissatisfied people, but we did not force anyone, because only honest labour made a man out of a monkey, so here we have the same approach. Soon murmurings of dissatisfaction passed and many of them also joined the labour army, there were, of course, and especially arrogant that tried to get something by robbery and plunder, but we quickly caught them and hung them on the central square, because we have no place for thieves and other scum of society. So soon all the people who resented us became part of our projects or were hanged as bandits and traitors.
Being the prince's chief advisor, I received great power and resources, and I used all this power for active propaganda and strengthening my own position in the country. Since the monarch didn't care about what was going on in his state, I could quietly go about my business. Making the necessary reforms and introducing the laws I needed. Having restored stability and eradicated all sorts of destructive 'heresies' dangerous for the country, I started to deal with finances. Although these desert lands were extremely poor, but I found in the General's chambers maps with land exploration from a Chinese company that wanted to start developing oil fields in the country. The Commies planned to get a military base at their disposal in return for multi-billion dollar loans for development, as well as to buy up at throwaway prices the oil and diamond deposits that were in the country, even if they were difficult to extract for development. So we will have plenty of resources, we just need to think about who to sell this exclusive opportunity of extraction to or do it ourselves, but should we divert our attention to it? The benefits are certainly there, but they will not be immediate. Plus do not forget and the competitive position in the market, because there everything is already divided between their own. And on the other hand you need to find among your friends specialists in this area and calculate everything in more detail, because also should not forget about the future. But we'll come back to this sometime later, but for now we have enough resources that we have now.
While actively recruiting for the purpose of 'transformation' I realised that all the locals were honest people, and all the scum usually aspired to power, so almost all the candidates joined our ranks without any problems, joining the army of the Lizard. I didn't want to recruit any of the locals, but there weren't enough of our guys, and there was so much to control. That's why I had to step on my own pride and start accepting people from the locals into our ranks. Well, let's see where this experiment will lead, let's hope that I didn't miscalculate with such a 'humane' approach to solving such a curious question. After all, loyalty must still be earned, so let's see how loyal these savages have become to the new regime.
Gradually improving the quality of life of the people, I achieved some respect among them, even though the locals were still afraid of a strange stranger, but it was only the beginning, because, as you know, a satisfied population is easier to rule, otherwise such a dictator will not live long. And I planned to stay in these deserted lands as long as possible, and then we'll see. The nourished life, active propaganda and recruitment began to bear fruit quite quickly on cultivation of local savages, so maybe soon it will be possible to restore higher educational institutions and start training their own managers, administrators and honest officials that will care only about the good of the people and the country, not about their own pockets. Utopia, you say? Perhaps so, but in this country after the civil war there were many orphans left in the care of the state, so having such a 'resource base' it is possible to bring up a generation of true patriots that this state needs. Properly processed and educated, we will get wonderful people who will work not for fear, but for their conscience.
But so far this is only a plan, which still has to be finalised and thought over in more detail. It may sound like utopia to some, but I believe that everything is possible with a proper approach, we just need to find the 'key' to solve this problem. And in my understanding it is completely state boarding houses for orphans, where there will be proper control and training. A kind of a mixture of military academy, higher education institution and patriotic circle with proper psychological treatment. After all, on the other hand now these children are of no use to anyone but their own country, so why not give them a chance to repay their debt to their homeland? Yes, it's cruel, inhuman and smells like the methods of Grandpa Goebbels, but otherwise they will simply perish in a world for which they are completely unsuited. And this way they will have a chance to achieve something and become useful to society.
Actively developing our agent network, I was able to get information about the state of affairs of our neighbours. And the most striking thing is that their situation was even worse, and the humanitarian catastrophe only aggravated their situation. The long drought has deprived many of their crops and forced them to slaughter a lot of livestock prematurely, so their hunger situation is only getting worse. But that's none of my business, and is it worth it when there's still plenty to do back home? On the other hand it's a good chance for invasion, we promise to help with the problems and at the same time seize all the power, or the locals will move to more 'civilised' lands, where they will at least be taken care of, but now is not the time for expansion, so any outcome in the 'neighbours' will be acceptable to us. After I finished reading the intelligence report, I went back into meditation to clear my mind of unnecessary thoughts.
When I returned to New York on the next flight, I immediately got down to the business that had accumulated during my absence. There was another gang war and an escalating conflict with the Triad. The Rice-eaters had declared war on us for controlling drug trafficking and were using all the lizards they caught for ingredients. Savages. Our organs are really no different from human organs, except for the higher quality of the material itself. How did they come up with that idea? Barbarians. Also if we believe the information from intelligence, these communists make various tinctures out of our guys and sell them to prominent members of the Communist Party. How wild is that? Or do they really believe that eating someone else's heart will make yours work better? Even the last African won't fall for this heresy. They have a different mentality, and if it were up to me, I'd napalm all their neighbourhoods in the city. No, not yet, because it's too early to reveal myself to the public.
After sending a message to 'my little country' to send a couple of thousand migrants that came to us after the peace was established, I immediately contacted Ozcorp managers for another order for transport workers. They want a better life? And I can offer them one, because America has always been a land of opportunity, you know, a little war, but they're used to it, right? And a couple of thousand old AKs from Soviet warehouses, I think we can find some. You can fight for a better life, can't you? Especially when your family will be around as 'guests' or hostages.
The police don't care about black and yellow, so I'm gonna cut out the Triad and take over all the traffic from Asia for good. Yes, I'll have to shoot a little and make some noise in the city, but this way I'll kill several problems at once, because who needs migrants when there are enough 'citizens' of their own? They'll get a chance for a new life, or a bullet from a gangster, as the case may be. And then we'll see how to further expansion on the black continent, but it's not urgent, so we can take our time, the main thing is that all the local population didn't scatter while I will think which of the countries to 'integrate' first.
Having shifted the duty of ideological pumping of fighters to SAS veterans, I returned to my bunker, waiting for the transports with 'meat' for street wars. Having contacted through 'Black Network' with an acquainted warrant officer from one small country of the former Warsaw bloc I ordered a large batch of automatic weapons and BC to it. After paying for the rush delivery, I returned to the Triad and announced the gathering of my Werewolves. This squad is made up of elite fighters that were given the ability to be excellent infiltrators and saboteurs after having been impregnated with nanites of our build.
After ordering the guys to take heavy plasma rifles and giving orders to eliminate all the important people of the enemy organisation, I went to the arsenal to get myself a rifle and take part in the coming war. Having taken a set of standard equipment for assault groups, I personally went to meet the first batch of our valiant 'fighters', because these guys are really ready to kill for a green card. And that's worth a lot, especially when it benefits you personally. Having conducted another emotional pumping with the subsequent processing of 'meat' I personally went with them, covering my face with a protective mask.
Launching a surprise attack right in the centre of Chinatown, we began to wreak havoc and destruction. After receiving word that the police were on their way, we dissolved as suddenly as we had appeared. Having repeated similar actions all over the city, and having finally stirred up the hornet's nest, we were ready to finish off the wounded 'dragon'. Having gathered all the main forces of the Chinese mafia in one point, we struck brutally, suppressing any resistance with firepower and fury of our own 'meat'. My guys were taking full advantage of the turmoil to eliminate all the leaders of the local Triad, while I was just enjoying the free 'shooting gallery', trying out another modification with increased accuracy on our plasma rifle.
- You work for the Lizard now. Anyone who resists or interferes with our work will suffer the fate of your leaders. - Having gathered all surviving managers, 'artisans' and other businessmen, I on the same day achieved their subordination and full merger with our organisation, because all the disgruntled and impertinent now simply fertilise the soil of this city doing something useful in their lives.
Having finished with the Triad, I returned to my operating theatre and sewed up all those who had suffered during the massacre, the seriously wounded had to be killed on the spot, so that they would not suffer, and all the others, seeing such a 'humane' approach to medicine, stopped whining and stood in line. Having finished patching up the fighters, I went into my office and poured myself a single malt whiskey. As I took leisurely sips and pondered how the operation could have been run more efficiently, I heard a tactful knock on the door and it was both so familiar and calibrated that it could only have been Aizen Mai. My old student and loyal associate, once gathered with the students of my first graduating class in the same bar, we had an extremely curious conversation. Even though it started as a banal drinking party, by morning it turned into a philosophical argument about the frailty of existence, the value of life and our place in the universe. Who would have thought that a bunch of technicians and scientists would eventually create a secret society of 'Technocrats'? However, everyone started somewhere, and I was once just a tired of life professor of neogenetics, who was tormented by nightmares and memories of the horrors of war, and the loss of his family, but I overcame all this unbearable pain to move on. No one should have to suffer and lose loved ones, and no matter what it takes to rebuild the world and humanity itself, I'm willing to go to great lengths to keep my word, given on the grave of those I once loved.
- Professor? - after exactly two more knocks, Eisen himself entered my office. - We have completed the integration of all Triad assets. - Mai said calmly. - But now a new conflict is brewing with Russian gangs and a clan of Samurai bikers. Russians will not like our strengthening and complete elimination of those arrogant Asians. So we should prepare for another confrontation. But I can organise raids on Russian mafia points through the policemen and NSA agents we bought. - my comrade-in-arms coolly finished his monologue. - But the last word always remains with you Professor.
Thinking over Aizen's words, I habitually thought over the best option for conflict resolution, because the war with all the gangs of the city at once can bleed even such a well-oiled war machine as ours, so do I need it? Or is it possible to solve everything peacefully? Or to make small concessions, in order to slightly delay the time? Each option has a right to life, but it is worth choosing the best one, because the cost of a mistake can be too great. Looking thoughtfully into Maya's grey eyes, I saw in them only blind confidence in my infallible authority and wisdom.
Aizen was still a man, and he wasn't in any hurry to change his 'appearance' to that of the dodgy snake that suited him so well, but he was still one of the most loyal guys I'd ever met. I did not doubt his loyalty, and we always need 'people' on the other side of the barricades to know what is going on in the human world and to keep a hand on the pulse, and every day such agents and just 'sympathetic' to our division of people, became only more. Is it not an indication that the world has long since come time to change, and mankind to rise to the pedestal of the crown of creation of 'Nature'. It is only necessary to push 'society' in the right direction and then the chain reaction will cover the whole world. Well, and all dissatisfied can always be placed in stasis, because there is always a shortage of good 'material'.
- What do you know about the Russian mafia? I don't know much about crime reports, so I need to know how dangerous these scumbags are. But I'll deal with the samurai, and if among them there are curious people, I'll recruit them, and if not, I'll let them for experiments. - He said calmly, still watching for Maya's reaction, but there was none, and Aizen remained as cold-blooded and true to his word given an eternity ago.
- They are extremely cruel, ruthless and unscrupulous, and they live by some kind of code. - After thinking for a moment, Aizen continued. - Many of them have combat experience. Most of these bastards have served time in the harshest prisons, whose inhumane conditions we never dreamed of. And the ones who didn't break and survived, they're the backbone of the Russian gang fighters. Every one of them is either a veteran or a beaten bandit who fled his country in search of an easy life. - Mai paused again for three seconds. - Typically involved in arms, drugs, human trafficking and money laundering through a network of laundromats, various eateries, their own taxis and God knows what else. They have an extremely decentralised structure with division according to ethnic, political and religious-philosophical interpretation, but in case of attacking someone or defending their own interests they instantly forget about all former disagreements and come out to fight as a united front. An extremely dangerous opponent that occupies many important points throughout the city and has the most unpleasant mobility and high awareness.
- A code? Like the samurai? - After waiting for Aizen to finish I began to ask counter questions. - Curious. So they're decentralised and yet completely monolithic? That's an oxymoron. And who's in charge? Allies? And who have they bribed in our city? - I kept asking leading questions.
- The criminal code. And it's nothing like what the samurai practised. - Mai answered calmly. - As far as I understand they have a complete 'democracy' and everyone can say anything, but must be responsible for their words, sometimes at the cost of life. The same with the election of the leader, anyone can become a leader, as well as challenge the current leader, only the strongest remains. A society of hardened bandits, no better than pirates. - Eisen spat contemptuously. - All the gangs are ruled by a council of 'honourable' men, who are above their code and the laws of our country, but there is someone above the council, a certain Creed, whose word has a decisive weight in all matters and squabbles. It is not known who he is, where he is and what he is doing today, he is considered to be the informal leader of all Russians in America. - Having made a pause Mai checked the information from the tablet and immediately continued. - The number of their allies is just as extensive. IRA militants. Small Irish gangs. Gypsies. Vietnamese syndicate. And Ashkenazi businessmen. As far as I know, their 'Family' also includes various Balkan nations on equal terms, as well as many Slavic radicals from various countries. - I thoughtfully hummed and again looked at my companion's grey eyes, which were still serenely calm.
- And who is this Creed? - I said curiously, sipping my whiskey again.
- Russians call him a madman who rejects death, some call him a Siberian shaman, others call him a KGB agent. I've heard so many crazy theories that I doubt the veracity of every one of them. - Mai hummed irritably. - But if we strip away all the rumours and drunken tales, we can conclude that he is extremely resilient, if not immortal. Otherwise it is extremely difficult to explain the mass of strange stories similar in meaning. So what are we going to do about the Russian Mafia, Professor? - Aizen's grey eyes glared at me questioningly.
- There's too little information. How sure are you of the truth of all these rumours? But what we have is enough to keep us away from those scumbags, and then we won't care about them. On the other hand, it was a hell of a curiosity to investigate a conditionally 'immortal' creature, don't you think? - Mai just closed his eyes, clearly not sharing my optimism. - But if it's that powerful, there's nothing to talk about, so let's focus on the Samurai and continue to clean up the city. What do you think about this Creed, his organisation and our place in this world? - I ask the boy thoughtfully.
- As to me it looks more like a story or a legend, which scares the children, but children grow up in time, but legends and stories remain in their heads for the rest of their lives. This is the dangerous image of Victor Creed. However, no one knows whether all this is true or another fairy tale from Russian folklore. But for now we should not check whether this fairy tale is real or a true story. So I would recommend us to keep a low profile and quietly finish the process of integrating all the resources of the Triad, and then the Russian mafia will get its hands on it. But the final word is still yours, Professor. - Mai smiled slyly.
- I think that we need to make a 'courtesy' visit and see what this strange beast called Creed is. And then we'll decide what to do about it. The main thing is not to escalate the conflict too much, or if they gather all their scum and 'allies' we might get butchered, and I'm not used to senseless slaughter. So let's just look at this 'monster' first, shall we? - Copying the smile of my interlocutor, I threw him a keychain from my Barracuda. - And you'll keep me company for reconnaissance, as a staff analyst you'll at least exercise a little, because all the month you've been doing nothing but collecting information, and I don't judge, but I propose to combine pleasant and useful.
Eisen only snorted thoughtfully, expressing the highest degree of his displeasure.
Having reached a small restaurant with a breeze, which had a modest name 'Little Odessa', we parked among a lot of Mercedes and Audis. Why do these Russians love 'Germans' so much? Surprisingly, there was not a single economy class car in the car park. And after that someone still calls us spenders? Although I myself drive a Plymouth Barracuda and still need to be more modest, and why so much give away your belonging to the mafia? After all, you can tell pretty quickly what kind of vehicles they prefer. Or is it more 'corporate' transport? However, God is their judge.
Moving deep into the restaurant, I paid attention to too 'luxurious' design of the restaurant. After all, this is not a theatre, but a place for eating, so why all this contrived gloss? As the Russians themselves say, it's just cheap ponts? However, I have little knowledge of Oriental languages, so the full meaning of these undoubtedly beautiful idioms escapes my understanding. On the other hand, I have never sought to understand anyone, because I have always had my own point of view and beliefs, and that was enough for me. First it's patriotism, duty, defence of family and relatives, and then it's just a duty that you can't give to this damn country. And it always felt like my debt was only growing, never diminishing. War changes people, so I was no longer the peace-loving surgeon I was before I went into the jungles of Vietnam.
Quickly chasing away the obsession, I began to study the quaint interior of the 'Little Odessa'. Lovely dressed waitresses were serving traditional dishes, and some unusually strange music was playing on the stage. Almost all the tables in the restaurant were occupied by people of near-criminal appearance and their 'companions' with low social responsibility. Each of the 'guests' had a characteristically protruding barrel of one or another gun. Is this how they go out to eat? Humming, I mentally agreed with Maya's conclusions about the complete stupidity of these people. But what else could I take from a gangster from such a cold and wild country?
'All is calm in Baghdad,
'All is calm in Baghdad
'And the grey warriors sleep
On golden carpets.'
As I moved further and further into the interior of the place, I saw the right man, or was it no longer a man? Creed was sitting in lotus position on a trio of Persian carpets, drinking green tea from a bowl. And why does everyone say he's hard to find? It was getting weirder and weirder. Creed himself looked extremely rugged, and I would even say wild. Abibas tracksuit with three stripes, snow-white sneakers and a black-and-white turtleneck. Something he does not look like a man who keeps in fear all the Russian mafia and the nearest neighbours. Or is that just a misleading image? Who knows? However, I came to 'meet' and look at this beast, so there's no retreat now.
- And you're a professor, my good man? - Creed said rudely.
***
We were still managing to keep the fragile peace, even though we were ready to fight these Russians, but to go against the whole confederation and their allies? It smacks of suicide. And I'm not that beaten down yet, so let these barbarians live in their ghettos while we systematically take over the city.
With the Russians came more trouble. One biker called Shogun Minamoto and his gang of jackals that tried to claim our business through dumping prices for 'goods' by means of Chinese 'counterfeit', which killed a lot of promising even slightly greedy customers. And I, of course, could not leave such a thing without my own attention, so I had to meet this mutt Sikun and his pack of faithful dogs, but I have not been so simple for a long time. The meeting took place in some old and sushi-smelling warehouse. Apparently that's the yakuza's place of power.
As I approached Minamoto, I didn't even speak, but immediately pulled my hands out of my pockets with a couple of plasma grenades, which immediately flew into the rice-eaters, annihilating most of our Shikun's gang. Within seconds of the explosion, I had already turned into a Lizard, because nanites work wonders. Then, without any hesitation, I calmly ripped off that asshole's head along with his spinal column.
That's how the samurai came to work for our organisation. But gang warfare isn't enough, so we need a contract.
A contract with Ozcorp!
I sighed tiredly, wincing at the return to human form. It's like this every time. However, even this is something you get used to. Homo is such a creature that is able to adapt to almost any environment or stimuli that our species and curious. That's why integration into the lizard society will be almost painless for humans, if everything goes according to my plan. And if not, then there is always a power option and banal conquest of the human race, because it's not the first time already, so homo nothing drastically and will not change except for the structure of DNA and appearance, but it's already trifles, isn't it?
Having habitually stretched a satisfied smile on my face, I evaluated my appearance for the last time and having come to the conclusion that I looked impeccable as always, I smiled more naturally. After all, in negotiations there is no other way, even if they are held in a teahouse, which is kept by Turks of German origin.
Well, nothing for a while I can curb my squeamishness and xenophobia, the main thing is not to stay here too long, and then at the sight of such a 'mix' of radically different cultures I begin to 'a little' beast and then the time for diplomacy is suddenly over. And I don't want to lose such an ally as Ozkorp, at least not now, because their production capacity and finances can still serve for the benefit of the 'new' society and the formation of the lizard race.
I walked calmly into an inconspicuous teahouse, where they were smoking hookahs and drinking Holstein beer, judging by the stinking aroma of the place. How do they drink this slop? Okay, Krombacher, but drinking this? Either I'm too stiff to be a Lizard.
But I never really liked beer, or alcohol in general. Being a military surgeon, I don't really care for it, and even if I do, I always have a couple of litres of pure medical alcohol on hand. I've seen a lot of good guys get drunk in a couple of weeks and die senselessly in a needless war, but I didn't break down, but my disgust for alcohol stayed with me forever, like a professional deformity. In a set also went not always appropriate black humour and a share of healthy cynicism, and how otherwise when your craft goes hand in hand with death itself?
When I saw the right man, I smiled. The professor was still as old and wrinkled as if twenty-five years had not passed since our first meeting. I wondered what his secret was. However, Stromm always looked like a fairy-tale lich or an Egyptian mummy, which by mistake was not buried in another tomb. But Mendel's character did not correspond to his appearance, for he was a lively fellow. Perhaps that was his secret. Stromm never got discouraged and was always working. Sometimes he even resembled a Buddhist monk that comprehended the path of asceticism, smoothly moving to spiritual food, completely abandoning all worldly things for the benefit of his projects. But there was another side to the professor ...
After fulfilment of all deadlines he could easily go into all sorts of mischief and quietly spend a hundred thousand dollars in the nearest casino, or after another drunkenness he woke up somewhere in Pattaya. Once I personally picked up a professor from a Thai prison for stealing a tiger and drunken debauch in the middle of the city centre. Since then, he has been banned from many countries in Oceania and Indochina, and I have made a pledge not to work with such destructive people. But everything flows, everything changes, so I have to depart from my own principles in favour of achieving more global goals, but what can one do, such is this bloody life and the mercantile world of people.
- Long time no see, Kurt. - Stromm smiled cheerfully, but he was in no hurry to get up from the comfortable cushions. - How are your wife, children, career? - Mendal went through the standard questions.
Noting that the old man was crystal sober, I hummed, which meant he had a project on his mind and wasn't up to it, which was good.
- I've been a widower for years. They weren't saved...' I replied glumly to Shtromm, who smirked thoughtfully.
- I'm sorry. - The professor said indifferently. - I didn't know. So how can I help an old friend? - said the old man coldly. - I hear your business is booming, and clinics are working round the clock because of the endless flow of people who want 'cures'. - The old man said suspiciously.
- I need a private meeting with Osborne. - I said laconically, staring into Stromm's unblinking eyes.
- Oh,' the old man suddenly perked up. - But how can a humble professor help you in this? - With contrived cheerfulness said this, snakes predatory smile.
- Don't be conceited Stromm. Everyone knows that you were Osborn's tutor and now his son's tutor. You also have a nice stake in Ozcorp, so let's not play supposed 'diplomacy' and just talk like adults. You know what I have, I know what you have, so we can build a mutually beneficial co-operation. It's just a question of whether you'll help by profiting or someone else. - While negotiating aggressively, I used to monitor the facial expressions of my interlocutor in order not to overdo it, or one extra pressure and the whole diplomacy would go down the drain.
- Fair enough... - the old man hummed, already clearly calculating his possible advantage. - I've known you for years, Kurt. - Stromm started from somewhere far away. - Your reputation is impeccable, your projects are promising and extremely profitable. So I see no reason to refuse. - Mendal's eyes flashed again, and we immediately began to haggle for his percentage of the deal and further preferences from co-operation.
After an hour of active battle for every fraction of a cent, we reached a mutually beneficial agreement. However, the fact of co-operation was important to me, not how much profit from all this, so I even called the old man to grab a little more than necessary. But that's secondary, because if we get all the production facilities of Ozcorp we'll cover all the expenses quite quickly.
Leaving the teahouse in a slightly elevated mood, I comfortably settled into the cabin of my Plymouth Barracuda and headed for a meeting with Norman Ozborn, who decided to receive me on Ozcorp's territory. All I had to do was talk to Stromm and get one simple phone call from him, and I was on my way to negotiate with the head of Ozcorp. Connections and useful acquaintances make our lives quite simple.
It's almost impossible for mere mortals to meet with Ozbourne. So now all I have to do is convince him of the usefulness of my work and sign a contract for further co-operation.
Turning on the gloomy blues, I smiled ravenously, for now everything was going according to plan, and that was fine.
Soon the imposing Ozcorp factory came into view, the personal fiefdom of a magnate we were interested in. The personal stronghold and symbol of the power of the house of Osborne. It was the main forge for all Ozcorp weapons and other Ozcorp goods on the continent. The industrial capacity of one such 'factory' was enough to supply all the needs of the U.S. Army and other small nations. That's why they should be our main allies in this coming war. And after an easy victory over all homos we can think about their expediency and usefulness in general, both for our society and for the new world.
Having got through the checkpoint without any problems, I hummed. It's nice to be expected after all. The factory was as impressive as ever, and the guards, made up of robots of various types and colours, made it clear that Ozborn kept its secrets like a dragon keeps its treasury. This was commendable, and perhaps he was a good ally too, but that was yet to be learnt in the process of our communication and negotiations.
The deserted territory told me I was long expected. But Osborne must not have had time to prepare for our meeting. Or was he that good at it? Who knows? But I'd at least be curious to talk to him. After all, he too is a kind of scientist, albeit one who has chosen the path of economics, business and a more rational approach. But that only made him an even more interesting interlocutor, didn't it? A different approach and a fresh perspective has always been curious to me. That's why I was looking for meetings with different people, because that's how you can always learn something new, damn curious and never seen before. Conservatism is not bad, but only when it is in moderation. Excessive stiffness prevents a new look at the development of science, philosophy, literature and other fundamental things. Therefore, the society of eternal old men, which does not let our world develop, is doomed. And only fresh blood will give our society such a necessary opportunity to rise through revival in order to move on. That is why we need change, otherwise we will soon simply disappear like all other civilisations before us. Everything is cyclical and the end of one is the beginning of another.
I see only two ways to solve this problem. We either change our world in favour of a better future, leaving the vestiges of the old and now ineffective society behind, or hope for a miracle, continuing to stagnate helplessly waiting for the next mission to come. I chose to take some action for our further development, even if some may call me a villain, but I only want the best for everyone. I may have to walk over the cold bodies of my opponents and become a monster in the eyes of the world, but I am willing to accept such a price if my actions elevate all worthy ones.
Leaving my Plymouth, I looked round the deserted territory of the factory, where cameras of various kinds flashed here and there, somewhere automatic turrets were traced, which should immediately destroy the intruder. And we should not forget about robots with all other security systems. With such a thorough approach I chose Ozcorp, I could capture not only the pharmacological markets, but also a couple of others, because my professor's storerooms are full of all kinds of things. One finalised laser rifles are worth a lot, and compact but powerful energy source allows you to do more than a couple of powerful shots they also have the ability to adjust the power, so they can be used in the army and other structures with completely different tasks. And this is only a small part of what will be found in my databases, but let's start with this, and we need something to arm our pocket army of savages, so this is an ideal option for a trial run in a new market.
Calmly assessing the solid number of various androids that became my silent cortege as soon as I left the car, I only nod meagrely at the 'care' of such kind. Is it so I don't get lost? Or so that I don't see anything unnecessary? Ozbourne seems to be paranoid, and that complicates the plan to integrate Ozcorp peacefully. On the other hand, we can always think of something else, and my plan involves a slow takeover from within, so we have time for intrigue, even if not as much as we would like.
Opening the massive doors of the main administrative building of Ozcorp, I suddenly lost all my 'companions' and continued my journey all alone. I wonder if it's always so deserted here? After taking the lift to the desired floor, I finally found myself in Ozborn's office, which stood out for its moderate asceticism and not ostentatious wealth. Everything was exactly in moderation, and that was a damn good thing.
- Professor. - The head of Ozcorp greeted the guest with a frowning nod, immediately pointing with another stingy movement of his head to the empty seat next to him.
- Thank you for seeing me on such short notice Mr Osborn. - With a friendly smile, I sat down quietly opposite the still scowling tycoon.
- Stromm asked for it, and I found no reason to refuse it. - he said coldly. - So I'm listening to you carefully, Professor. I hope you're not wasting my precious time. - Osborn said, more predatory and with a hint of steel in his words.
Nodding silently, I calmly pulled out a miniature projector for running visual holograms. Quickly starting up the machine, I immediately began a mini review of what I had to offer Ozcorp, and there was plenty of 'goods' to go around.
- And the final product of our 'exhibition' reinforcing composition L94 for soldiers and other employees of power departments. - like a big-time fair-keeper or a hawker, I advertised my merchandise to the hilt. - L94 enhances anyone who takes the compound, increases regeneration, strength and slightly dulls pain. On the downside, you can't abruptly stop taking the compound, or there's a chance of losing your humanity. - I tactfully avoided the issue of turning into a deadly lizard, so as not to scare off a potential customer in advance.
- Lose your humanity? - Ozborn said thoughtfully. - Are you trying to sell me another drug under the guise of a cure? And Stromm is in on it with you, I take it? - The tycoon suddenly spoke sternly.
- I am ready to conduct all the appropriate tests of the composition L94 on the territory of Ozkorp if necessary. - I calmly answered looking straight into Ozborn's eyes.
- Your offer is too good to be true...' he said with the same frown.
Have I cheapened it? I don't think so, because the analysts have chosen the best option for our package, so I don't see what the problem is? Is my offer too favourable? Osborne's gut must be seeing a catch in all this, but he can't figure out what it is yet. A trump card?
- You're right, and the reason is quite simple. We need a reliable partner that for a share of the profits will be ready to work effectively for the common good, or even buy the patent for production with the subsequent deduction of a certain percentage of the profits to us. - I calmly moved on to plan B and continued the negotiations.
- Mm-hmm.
- You can see for yourself the quality of our products and formulations. We have nothing to hide. - smiling as friendly as possible I saw the same maximally collected Ozborn, who was not in a hurry to answer.
- A partnership, then? - he said thoughtfully.
- Mutually beneficial! - He immediately supplemented the magnate's words.
Ozbourne was mechanically tapping his knuckles on the table, expressing an extreme degree of suspicion.
- Yes, yes, of course. - Your offer is very tempting, but I must discuss it with the board of directors and wait for the company's analysts. - Ozborn was extremely tactful in his evasion, but it was expected, so I'm willing to wait a bit, because sooner or later they'll realise that this offer is pretty damn exclusive and it won't come again.
- Good. - I said calmly and left Ozborn's office at a leisurely pace.
As I left the administration building I was again met by a motorcade of familiar cars, the good old androids expressing more emotion than Ozborn himself, I'm exaggerating, but still. Even though I had not had much contact with such business mastodons before, but still. Or was my offer really too good? Hell knows, but for now we'll work with what we have, and in time we'll come back to the Ozcorp issue. After all, I have a lot to do!
The work of improving the new species alone is worth it, and there are so many more trials and experiments to come. Perhaps soon my boys will be able to track down the student, and then it's recruitment or dismantling for useful parts, it depends on how it goes. But I will be satisfied with each of the possible outcomes, so I will not be sad in any case.
Leaving the territory of the Ozcorp factory, I habitually turned on classical music and headed to my bunker for further work, and continued research on improving the lizards.
Status Power Mingguan
-- Peringkat
Power 
-- Power
stone