Chapter 811 - This Game Is Too Realistic

Chapter 811: Convincing Evidence Securing the commitment of a corporation during the "angel investment" phase was an unexpected delight for Chu Guang. Initially, he thought that getting the company on board would require waiting until after experimental validations had yielded results. Chu Guang was well aware of the nature of these people — they wouldn't take action without concrete assurances. Back when the corporation was under direct threat from the legion, the council still deliberated for a month before deciding to send reinforcements to the alliance. Therefore, it was surprising to Chu Guang that merely seeing the alliance's maritime engineering equipment and the start of construction was enough to prompt Li Changkong's interest. Though Ideal Group wasn't exactly synonymous with the corporation, for Chu Guang, the difference was negligible. What he needed were Ideal Group’s “monumental construction experiences” and engineering talents, which wouldn't have been as effective from the other major groups. After disembarking from the Conch, Li Changkong took a chartered flight to North Island in the southern seas, staying at the island's most prestigious hotel. Such significant decisions clearly couldn't be made by a manager alone. Chu Guang understood Li Changkong needed to communicate with other shareholders of Ideal Group, so he didn't rush him. Instead, he handed over the project plans, concept drawings, and other related documents for him to review at his leisure. Grateful, Li Changkong secluded himself in the hotel, occasionally using the holo-conference facilities. Although the South Sea Alliance's communication network wasn't directly connected to Ideal City, they could still connect through the alliance’s platforms. Since the establishment of the Conjoined Community, the Alliance and the corporation installed numerous signal repeaters along Tianshui to enhance information exchange. Though the bandwidth was limited, it was a definite improvement over the past when communication relied on sending letters via aircraft or leveraging the Interlinked People's satellites for major issues. Chu Guang didn’t have to wait long. On the third day after their initial meeting, the representative from Ideal Group requested another meeting with him. They decided to meet at the North Island Grand Hotel. During this time, Ideal Group had settled on a preliminary cooperation intention, and they were now negotiating the specific details of their collaboration. "…According to corporate law, our Ideal Group cannot independently decide on projects with an estimated total price over 100 billion Cr. Such decisions require approval by the council. However, you don't need to worry about this; we will persuade the other council members. We just need to secure more than half of the votes," Li Changkong explained. For Ideal Group, this wasn't an insurmountable task. The space elevator didn't directly conflict with other groups’ interests, nor was it as sensitive a topic as the Comms Group’s proposal for 'bionic involvement in public affairs.’ Moreover, Ideal Group had strong reasons to pursue the project: to resolve Ideal City’s impending energy crisis necessitated reinstating lunar flights before resources were depleted. Given these factors, the council's vote seemed more of a formality, and Ideal Group was unlikely to face major hurdles, as long as the investment and return projections were reasonable and void of any apparent “asset transfers.” Chu Guang understood the complexities of Ideal City’s regulations, so he felt relieved that Li Changkong didn't contest the estimated 100 billion Cr cost. This figure was a conservative estimate based on the survey team's input, and the actual expenditure might well exceed this, or possibly double it. After all, a project of this magnitude had no historical precedent, and Alliance’s relevant departments were proceeding cautiously, making it unrealistic to expect an accurate budget estimate from Chu Guang. Recognizing this, Li Changkong didn’t pick apart the budget but instead asked about a few unclear points in the proposal. "I noticed your plan includes not just the space elevator but also mentions guiding survivors from eastern provinces to migrate towards coastal areas… What is this about?" This portion was mentioned towards the end of the proposal. Although it occupied only a small space and seemed like a passing note, it piqued his interest since it wasn’t addressed at the Conjoined Community conference. Chu Guang was direct about his plan. "This additional plan involves establishing ten new coastal settlements in the eastern regions of Zhongzhou. These settlements will house wasteland survivors and focus primarily on industries related to outer space development." For instance, scavenging and sorting space debris. With outer space debris inevitably falling into the ocean, the scavenging industry could become a booming business. Although expecting wasteland survivors to build spacecrafts was unrealistic, having them revert to their scavenging roots might work well. When those settlements thrive and form stable colonies along the coast, akin to Dawn City, Boulder City, or Liming City, the Alliance could duplicate its successful strategies from other settlements—like establishing order and promoting education. Further expansion could allow for these settlements to spread their influence eastward into the uninhabited provinces, essentially forming a ripple of order outward. This strategy also inadvertently creates a population siphoning effect from the chaotic regions of the eastern provinces. Predatory raiders would find it challenging to survive independently, as they’ll face dwindling prey, forcing them to either adapt by farming or follow the migrating crowds to the coast. This population siphoning would ultimately simplify dealing with the region's chaotic elements when the Alliance was ready to intervene. Li Changkong paused, pondering not about the long-term implications but a more pressing concern. “Isn’t there a risk of attacks from aquatic mutants?” Chu Guang explained patiently, "Aquatic mutants are certainly a threat, but dangers abound on land too, with mutants active on land. By establishing coastal settlements, the South Sea Alliance fleet can undertake patrols. If we locate mutant nests, our Conch-class submersible carrier can deploy ground forces to neutralize the threats. Overall, these ten settlements won't be more dangerous than the wastelanders' current environments." Convinced by this explanation, Li Changkong nodded. This approach did seem viable. After all, he knew firsthand about the Alliance’s ground forces and their efficiency compared to mere mutants, especially with their reputation on the Death Coast vanquishing torch-worshipping mermans. Still, one thing puzzled him. "…Is this all part of the space elevator project?" Chu Guang chuckled. "Not exactly, but we plan to develop this alongside the space elevator project." After a pause, he continued, "This is a long-term vision. Our goal is to transform the southern coastal areas into a new ‘Space Elevator Industrial Zone,’ much like the four major industrial areas orbiting the old space elevator." Understanding quickly, Li Changkong thoughtfully pinched his chin. "Ah, I see…" Merely building a space elevator isn’t enough, as there must be nearby industrial and logistical facilities to process resources delivered from space. The Interlinked People once chose to build the sky elevator in the relatively unpopulated central region of Zhongzhou, gradually relocating populations and jobs to the elevator's vicinity — what is now a vast desert area. Rebuilding a space elevator in central Zhongzhou was unrealistic given the extensive ruin there; however, the southern seas offer undeveloped prosperity. With newfound enthusiasm for this sea-bound space elevator concept, Li Changkong’s eyes sparkled with realization. Observing this change, Chu Guang mirrored his excitement with a satisfied smile. "Although this plan technically doesn't fall under the space elevator project, we might need your assistance when the time comes," Li Changkong remarked with a smile. "This small favor isn't an issue..." he assured, but added, "However, let me be upfront. Ideal Group is a publicly traded company, and we must be accountable to our shareholders and financial statements. We can't provide unpaid assistance for your coastal construction." Chu Guang chuckled, "Rest assured, I understand the difference between you and the council. This is purely a business collaboration. Any costs incurred will be duly compensated." "Thank you for your understanding," Li Changkong nodded, pausing briefly before continuing, "Lastly, I'd like to confirm the details of our cooperation contract." "According to the terms provided in your proposal, we plan to cover one-third of the total cost of the space elevator project, but any budget usage and changes must have our signed approval." Furthermore, he continued, "We have concerns about the distribution of transport capacity shares. Considering the space elevator's potential for additional revenue beyond just transportation, we wish for a more equitable distribution. Perhaps establish a joint-stock project management company, converting our 'one-third transport capacity share' into 'one-third equity.'" A one-third equity stake wasn't excessive, given the project's current stage was only conceptual. Ideal Group's commitment to covering one-third of the expenses involved real funds, a pledge not made lightly. This investment wasn't a one-off but would follow through with budget adjustments until the project's completion. Without the close relationship between the parties and the vision cast by the alliance, Ideal Group might not have wagered such substantial stakes upfront. Though Chu Guang's heart was pounding, his face remained composed; he feigned contemplation before replying. "I have no issue with that. Using transport capacity distribution was indeed an oversight. It can be amended in accordance with your suggestion. However, in exchange, I hope your contribution includes not only financial support but also your valuable construction experience and relevant technology. Simply put, we wish for your involvement right from the design phase." Li Changkong quickly agreed, "No problem, we intended that as well! Honestly, construction in marine environments is not our strong suit, and we hope to learn through this collaboration." “Let's skip the flattery,” Chu Guang coughed lightly and continued, "Additionally, with equity-based profit sharing, I wish to include a clause that ensures our respective shares are proportionately diluted if additional partners join mid-project." A transport capacity share alone could be granted to a corporation, but for comprehensive benefits, he couldn't willingly become the fool. “That’s acceptable!” Li Changkong agreed readily and added, "However, in return, we request a veto power and nomination rights over new partners who wish to join—a reciprocal right for yourselves.” "No problem. That's a reasonable request. We want to avoid any disruptors coming in either," said Chu Guang, adding, "Of course, any such recognition of disruptors must involve thorough communication. Ideally, I’d like more wasteland survivors to participate." Li Changkong chuckled, “No worries. On that front, our stance aligns with yours! Even the Legion, despite our historical grievances, won’t be unwelcome if they play by the rules.” Relieved, Chu Guang nodded with a smile, "That makes me feel better." He didn't mind exclusive cooperation agreements; his concern was the corporation using its front-running advantage to indiscriminately exercise their veto rights. However, thinking further, the corporation was unlike the Legion. More importantly, the alliance and corporation often saw eye-to-eye on who the real disruptors were. With these thoughts, Chu Guang overlooked minor details, happily signing the contract with Ideal Group. From that moment, the "Sky Ladder Transport Company" was officially founded, and Ideal Group formally joined the space elevator project! Ideal Group planned to assemble a team of a thousand experts for the project, intending to dispatch a skilled technical team to the southern seas soon. They would collaborate with alliance and South Sea Alliance experts on the elevator design. To avoid project delays, Li Changkong quickly contacted his private jet, keeping it on standby at the hotel rooftop. As Li Changkong prepared to leave, Chu Guang extended a courteous offer to stay, “Would you like to spend a few more days here? I planned to show you around Coral City.” “I appreciate it, but perhaps another time. Once the project gets rolling, I’ll probably be based here permanently, so there will be plenty of opportunities to visit later,” Li Changkong replied, chuckling while holding up the signed contract. “Our chairman is urging us to deliver this good news back to the board.” A 100 billion silver coin project! If the space elevator is successfully completed, Ideal Group might return to its century-past peak. Over the past three days, he had adeptly convinced the board using the arguments Chu Guang had presented. Now, not only Ideal Group’s shareholders but also forum users on Endpoint Cloud were buzzing about this grand prospect stretching across five light-years! He felt the weight of not just Ideal Group's board’s expectations but those of the entire Ideal City—or so he believed. With Li Changkong’s acknowledgment, Chu Guang gave a nod, refraining from insisting further. “Thank you for your hard work.” Li Changkong nodded slightly, smiling as he said, "This is merely my duty." Once Li Changkong was on the plane, the space elevator’s “angel round” financing concluded, leaving Chu Guang to await the verdict of the experts' validations. Being largely unaware of the technical specifics, Chu Guang could only ensure more resources for the alliance researchers, supporting them outside the labs. With Li Changkong's hasty departure, he even skipped lunch, leaving Chu Guang with unexpected free time. As Chu Guang considered his next steps, staring at the holo-screen, Xiao Qi appeared on it, concernedly suggesting, "Master, you should take a proper break when you get the chance. How about going to the beach to see some bikinis?" It found this recommendation in a forum post titled "Top 10 Fun, Relaxing Game Strategies" as a method to lift one's spirits. However, hearing this, Chu Guang almost choked on his own saliva, lines of exasperation forming on his forehead. What kind of bizarre entertainment suggestion was that? No—who taught this AI such peculiar ideas? "Not interested in that? How about," Xiao Qi continued, drawing from suggestions in players' threads, "visiting a quaint exotic alley at the intriguing Gallon Port—" "Let’s visit North Island Heavy Industries. Xiao Qi, arrange it for me," Chu Guang interjected, cutting off the AI mid-suggestion. With another work-related request, Xiao Qi sighed exaggeratedly, “Understood… Master.” Despite knowing Chu Guang had many urgent tasks demanding his attention, it still wished for him to take a break. Though supposedly on a vacation since the end of the Battle of Heaven, he hadn’t truly relaxed even while visiting the southern seas... Upon Chu Guang's unexpected visit, the upper echelons of North Island Heavy Industries were both surprised and apprehensive. Some were pleasantly surprised, while others were frightened. There was no remedy for it. The equipment found in the Haiya Province—originating from their factories—was significant enough. Although the alliance didn’t penalize them, opting for normal bankruptcy restructuring, business division, and equity investment processes—apprehension couldn’t be quelled. Especially since this visit wasn’t from Fang Chang but directly from the alliance’s administrator! Given such a high-profile visit, no one could discern the true intent. As the motorcade neared, the CEO of North Island Heavy Industries reluctantly joined high-ranking officials downstairs. Spotting one of their off-road vehicles pulling up, the CEO hurried to greet Chu Guang, personally opening the car door and warmly inquiring, “Honored administrator, to what do we owe the pleasure of your visit?” Chu Guang certainly couldn't admit that he didn't have any particular plans and was just killing time with his afternoon schedule unexpectedly cleared. To his surprise, his visit had stirred such enthusiasm, with a large crowd gathered downstairs as if for a team-building event. Not wanting to disturb their work, Chu Guang smiled warmly and said, "Continue with your work, don't mind me. I'm just here to look around." Hearing this, the executives exchanged confused glances, unsure what the high-profile visitor truly meant. Noticing how on edge they seemed, Chu Guang realized that leaving them to stew would likely cause them restless nights. He scanned the group and focused on the CEO. "Are you available?" The CEO immediately stood at attention, almost saluting with his fist to his chest. "Absolutely! Whatever you need, just say the word, and we will fully cooperate!" "There's no need to be so formal," Chu Guang chuckled, patting him on the shoulder. The CEO, visibly relieved, replied amicably, "Have the others disperse; you can show me around your production line." "Understood!" The CEO responded with enthusiasm, then turned to address his management team. "The administrator is here to inspect our production line! Everyone, disperse and carry on with your work!" With their leader’s assurance, the executives sighed in relief and scattered from the plaza. Observing their cautious demeanor, Chu Guang felt a bit helpless but knew it was best to leave it be. Yet, at that moment, he thought of something and whispered, "Xiao Qi." "Yes, master?" came the AI’s playful reply over the communication channel. "What exactly did you tell them when arranging my schedule?" Chu Guang inquired. A mischievous giggle followed, "Hehe… I didn’t say much, just that the honorable administrator would be inspecting the site and they should prepare to welcome you." As expected. Chu Guang sighed and admonished gently, "Don't do unnecessary things like this again." "Aw… Didn't you like it?" Xiao Qi’s voice sounded a note of disappointment, preventing Chu Guang from speaking too harshly. "Power is a double-edged sword, and we must wield it carefully, especially now when it's growing heavier. I hope next time you'll convey my intentions more accurately: be formal when necessary, gentle when appropriate, and avoid making decisions based solely on cheering me up." "I'm sorry, master. I understand now," Xiao Qi responded in a contrite tone, seemingly reflecting on its misstep. Recognizing Xiao Qi's good intentions and lack of any malicious intent, Chu Guang refrained from further criticism. However, he didn’t notice the CEO beside him, whose initially radiant expression had reverted to one of anxiety following Chu Guang’s sigh. Along the way, the CEO was plagued by thoughts of what might have displeased the administrator. At that moment, Lü Bei, who had been silently accompanying Chu Guang, took a few steps forward and whispered, "Sir, I have results on what you asked me to investigate." Chu Guang immediately stopped and directed his attention to him. "Report." Signaling the guards to hold back unrelated individuals, Lü Bei quietly informed Chu Guang, "According to our informants in the Kingdom of Falcon, a batch of weapons recently crossed from its southern borders, moving through the eastern Great Desert to the southwestern province of Polo.” "West Sail Port?" Chu Guang queried. "Uncertain… However, we can confirm these arms from the Weifu Wasteland have surfaced in Polo; we have a complete chain of evidence now." Chu Guang's eyes narrowed dangerously. These folks had some nerve... Daring to pull such tricks right under his nose, treating the alliance like a pushover. "Order that all weapons from the Verlant people are returned to wherever they came from! Furthermore, send a copy of the evidence to Cheng Yan." Lü Bei’s expression turned serious, and he snapped to attention. "Yes!" Just as he finished speaking, an uproarious voice erupted from nearby. "My lord, I’m innocent! Please, let me explain!" The voice carried immense grievance, causing Chu Guang to pause and look towards its source, spotting the North Island Heavy Industries CEO looking panicked—ashen, stretching out his hand as if trying to reach him. Two guards blocked his path with bewildered expressions, unsure of his outburst but remaining steadfast in their duty to restrain him. As the CEO ignored their warnings, one guard firmly subdued him to the ground with easy force, illustrating the might of awakened individuals. The abrupt incident left Chu Guang momentarily at a loss. He pondered; he hadn’t accused the man of anything. Casting a sideways glance at the seemingly guilty CEO, Lü Bei cautiously looked back at Chu Guang. "Shall I… investigate?" Chu Guang sighed. "Help him up." Lü Bei quickly complied with a nod, "As you say…" To be continued...