章 77: Chapter 77: Dissatisfaction
**
People weren't fools. When Norman Osborn was reinstated as CEO, many of the shareholders who had sold their shares realized something was amiss. The incidents that led to the sharp decline in Osborn Group's stock, combined with internal scandals being leaked, clearly pointed to someone on the board.
However, it now seemed that Norman Osborn himself might have been behind it. He had appeared furious about the situation, and given that he had suffered the greatest losses, no one initially suspected him.
Still, even now, people couldn't understand why Osborn would put himself through such losses. Was it really all for a few untested miracle drugs? It didn't add up. That wasn't how capitalists typically behaved.
The shareholders who sold their stakes were perplexed, suspecting Osborn Group was being deliberately manipulated. Yet, they lacked the evidence to prove any foul play. Even if they pursued legal action, they would likely fail.
Some were unwilling to simply let things go. However, Norman Osborn was no pushover. Attacking him directly wasn't an option. So, they shifted their focus to Link, thinking that perhaps he, being relatively new and without much established power, might be easier to deal with. But a bit of investigation quickly revealed that Link was an even more formidable figure than they had anticipated.
Both Link and Norman Osborn remained unaware that they had narrowly escaped a crisis. The transition of control within Osborn Group had gone smoothly. The company was streamlined, reducing its diverse operations to just the biological, pharmaceutical, and weapons development sectors.
A full-scale biological testing program was underway for the miracle drugs, with the results proving highly promising. It wouldn't be long before they could apply to the regulatory authorities for human trials.
At this moment, Link arrived at Osborn Group's test facility, where a flying glider had been prepared for him. Norman Osborn explained its features.
The glider came equipped with dual machine guns, two missiles, and retractable spikes. However, Link found many of these features unnecessary. The glider, in his opinion, should focus on flight, its primary function. Small missiles were acceptable, but machine guns and spikes seemed overkill for his needs.
"Norman, Stark Industries is constructing three new buildings, powered by Stark's new energy technology. I think we should purchase one of them," Link suggested.
Norman Osborn raised an eyebrow. "Are you thinking of moving the company's headquarters?"
"Exactly. It's located in Hell's Kitchen. The project is progressing well and should be ready by May of next year. We could sell the current building and likely save a significant amount of money due to its prime location," Link explained.
"This isn't just about money, though," Osborn cautioned.
"I know that. But here's my plan: I want to build a supercomputer powered by artificial intelligence. The top floor will serve as my personal residence, and the research departments will be centralized there."
"I also plan to set up a small, automated factory for personal use. You'll still be in charge of management, of course," Link continued, lowering his voice as he added, "I developed those miracle drugs."
Norman Osborn was stunned. "Really?"
"Do you need to test me?" Link smiled. "From now on, whether it's drugs or weapons, I'll be doing the development. But for now, this has to stay a secret, understand?"
"My goal is to make Osborn Group stronger, and your role as CEO is to ensure smooth operations. With the help of AI overseeing the new building, we won't have any more incidents like the one with Richard Parker."
"Richard Parker was no ordinary man," Link said. "I suspect he had ties to the CIA. We should be cautious."
Norman Osborn nodded. "I had similar suspicions. Only the CIA would have the power to make someone disappear like that. And they're even stronger abroad—such greed."
"Exactly," Link agreed. "The current building is outdated. Renovating it would be expensive, and we wouldn't be able to incorporate all the latest technologies. Selling it and moving to a more modern facility just makes sense. But if you really want to keep the old building, we can."
"No need," Osborn shook his head. "A better building would be beneficial. If you truly are the genius you claim to be, I'm more than willing to invest in new infrastructure."
"We're a tech company, after all," Osborn added with a laugh. "I'll leave all future research and development to you. I'm reaching my limits in that department."
Link grinned. Osborn's decisiveness was impressive. "Don't worry. I promised I'd make your shares more valuable. Once the stock price rises, we'll carefully select new shareholders."
"Absolutely," Osborn agreed, still processing the revelation that Link had developed the miracle drugs. It was almost too shocking to believe. He had researched Link's background—he had a degree in psychology and a reputation in the underworld, but scientific genius? That was new.
Link, unaware of Osborn's inner turmoil, mounted the glider and took off. He flew around the test site, quickly mastering the controls. However, he was dissatisfied with the glider's lack of agility. The user had to maintain an awkward posture, almost like a flying crab.
Determined to modify the glider to suit his combat needs, Link knew he would have to make it more maneuverable. For now, his role was that of a sharpshooter, though his hand-to-hand combat skills could match someone like Black Widow. The addition of a flying glider would boost his mobility, and once he developed his own battle suit, he could pass the tech on to Osborn Group as a cover.
Osborn Group was, after all, a technology company. For Link, all these moves were part of a larger strategy to create more layers of protection for his and Jessica's secrets.
There was still no news from Asgard, but based on the timeline, it would be about two years before Thor returned and Loki led the Chitauri invasion. Time was tight. Link needed to complete his AI, battle suit, and glider within that period.
He wondered if the glider could also incorporate nanotechnology.
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________________________________________
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(End of Chapter)
章 78: Chapter 78: Negotiations
***
A superbrain isn't always a blessing. Once Link's mind starts racing, it's hard to stop. He even starts thinking about how flying might not necessarily require a hoverboard. Maybe Falcon's flight gear would be better?
But probably not—those wings aren't really his style.
"Well, this hoverboard has quite a few flaws. I'll make some improvements, but I'll need a proper workshop," Link said. "I'll have a chat with Stark Industries. Their new building in Hell's Kitchen is coming up fast; buying it shouldn't be an issue."
"Alright, I'll handle the pharmaceutical side," Norman Osborn responded, dividing their tasks.
...
Link contacted Pepper Potts, and they met in New York at the offices of the United Construction Company.
"Pepper, long time no see." After a brief embrace, they parted.
"You've been full of surprises lately, Link. Acquiring Osborn Industries?" Pepper said.
"I have a knack for this. I shorted Hammer Industries before, but they've got military backing and managed to survive. So I had to set my sights elsewhere," Link explained, though this wasn't exactly true. He had no real interest in Hammer Industries, which lacked depth.
If it weren't for their entanglement with the military, the company would've been torn apart long ago. Link's story was just a convenient excuse.
Pepper admired Link's abilities, seeing his potential as beneficial to Tony Stark.
"So, what's the reason for today's meeting?" she asked.
"I want to purchase the Hell's Kitchen building that Stark Industries is developing. I plan to modify its original design," Link explained. "It will serve as the new Osborn Industries headquarters. Once our stock price rises, I also hope to acquire Stark Industries' weapons division."
Pepper didn't immediately respond. She thought about it.
First, the building was no problem. The four towers Stark Industries was constructing were designed to run on renewable energy. Selling one would have the same effect as renting it out, and if Osborn Industries bought one, the value of the remaining towers would likely increase.
As for the weapons division, that was a more complicated issue. Although it had been shut down, it hadn't been completely dealt with yet. Plus, with Stark Industries shifting focus back to New York, the department, and its employees were still a problem she had to solve.
"We can sell you the building," Pepper said with a smile. "But what about the weapons division?"
"My idea is that once our special drug hits the market and the stock price goes up, Stark Industries can take a 15 to 20 percent stake in Osborn Industries in exchange for the weapons division," Link proposed.
Pepper nodded. "That sounds like a good plan, but there's just one issue—Tony's approval."
Link was surprised. "Aren't you the CEO now?"
"Yes, but I respect Tony's opinions. I need to ask him what he thinks, especially since he's the one who shut down the weapons division. Agreeing to such a deal might go against his wishes," Pepper explained.
Link understood her point. She agreed in principle, but Stark's perspective was still important.
"Of course, feel free to ask him," Link said.
"I'll do it now." Pepper pulled out her phone and called Tony Stark.
After a brief silence on the other end of the line, Stark quickly made his decision. He agreed to the deal.
When Pepper hung up, she smiled. "Tony's on board. He trusts that you won't misuse the weapons. After all, someone has to manufacture them."
Link nodded in agreement. "Looks like he's come to terms with it. Weapons have been around since the dawn of humanity—they won't disappear."
"Well then, here's to a successful partnership!"
"Indeed, to our partnership!" Link shook hands with Pepper before they both attended the United Construction Company meeting.
The reason they met there was because Link had organized a meeting with United Construction to discuss taking a stake in the company, using Osborn Industries as the buyer.
Wilson Fisk was pleased. Although Link was a major shareholder in Osborn Industries, the company's stock price was currently low. However, it had a solid history, and with Link now in control, Fisk was confident the company's fortunes would soon turn around.
Others might doubt it, but Fisk believed in Link's ability.
For now, Osborn Industries could only afford to purchase a 5 percent stake in United Construction. When combined with the shares held by Jessica's charity foundation, they controlled a modest 13 percent.
Fisk had no plans to sell any more shares. He intended to wait for the stock price to rise before seeking out new partners.
The current situation was ideal for him—he was making money and gaining powerful allies. The only downside was that he didn't have the funds to invest in other projects just yet.
...
Link then reviewed the blueprints for the Stark building. The design was similar to the Stark Tower, and Link didn't intend to change much. He liked the rooftop and its flying platform.
The "Stark" lettering would be replaced with "Osborn," and the building's design would need some adjustments. Link also planned to install a small automated factory in the middle floors, which he would negotiate directly with Stark.
Additionally, a supercomputer would be housed in the building, located in the underground levels for cooling and security purposes.
Features like holographic projection and intelligent controls would also be installed, with a fully integrated smart security system. But Link wasn't relying solely on this system—he didn't want S.H.I.E.L.D. accessing his building at will.
Since Osborn Industries didn't have the money, Link would personally fund the purchase, with the building serving as the company's headquarters. Osborn Industries would pay rent until their financial situation improved and they could buy the building outright. Otherwise, they would have to raise funds through investors, which would dilute Norman Osborn's shares.
The building would be divided into two sections, with the upper portion dedicated to laboratories and the lower portion to administrative offices.
The security in the laboratories would be significantly enhanced, something Osborn readily agreed to, having suffered previous losses. By placing the labs in the upper levels and bolstering security, they could better manage the research and prevent further incidents.
This arrangement also made it easier for Norman Osborn to manage the company without interference from Link as chairman.
For now, the board of directors consisted only of the two of them, so decisions were quick and easy. But what about when more board members were added?
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