Ch. 691..700
Life at the Top Chapter 691
“F*cking hell! You ignorant and stupid f*cker. Who the f*ck do you think you are, hmm? The country has more than 100 cities like Reed City, but you think you’re the sh*t?
“You think that just because people in Reed City call you ‘Young Master’ that you’re suddenly some trust-fund baby? F*cking bullsh*t! It’s ignorant b*stards like you who don’t know sh*t who has tarnished the reputation of all trust-fund babies!”
Henry swung the baton as he spoke, the act now looking like a form of art in his hands. The baton knocked on Ned again and again, and after a couple of hits, Ned had lost even the strength to make a sound. He lay on the floor and twitched, seemingly half a breath away from death.
“That’s enough, Henry.” Jasper stopped the man.
Henry might actually kill Ned in his fit of rage if he kept attacking.
Jasper did not care if Ned died, but he would not take revenge on someone as pointless as Ned. The main targets were the Adkins and Coine families supporting Ned. Killing Ned now would only further complicate this already complicated situation.
Henry heard Jasper and passed the baton back to the bodyguard with a pant.
Feeling hot from all the action, Henry loosened his collar and pointed at Ned who lay limply on the ground. “Drag this pile of flesh out to the corridor. We’re at the hospital anyway, so just leave him there.”
Two bodyguards quickly came over and bent down to grab a leg each before they dragged Ned over.
Everything was done with such practiced ease that it was proof this was not the first time they had helped Henry do such a thing.
After Ned was dragged away, Henry came to Jasper’s bed and chuckled. “You weren’t being nice this time. You know how much I like bullying *ssholes like him, so how could you come here and have fun all by yourself without me?”
“Yes, so fun I landed in the hospital,” Jasper spat back irritatedly.
Henry was elated. “Thank goodness you’re alright. Or this would be a much greater problem.”
“The old master knows?” Jasper asked in shock.
“Not yet, we’re hiding it from him. But my dad knows, “ Henry replied with a beam.
“He told me to tell you to screw them over. Do whatever you want and f*ck them up. Not for yourself, but for investors like us so we can have a better environment to invest in.”
“Let’s be honest, you’re not the only one who’s had to deal with this. The Law family has had to deal with this in too many places when we wanted to invest in those locations. Absolutely disgusting behavior. My dad has decided that he’ll make quite a few calls to Swallow Capital this time, so this will most likely blow up to the point where the higher-ups are made aware.”
Jasper frowned and spoke, “That changes the meaning of all of this, then.”
“So what if it changes? Were you planning to just leave the matter be?” Henry glared at him from the corners of his eyes.
“Bullsh*t.” Jasper’s expression was dark. “I almost died, there’s no way I’m leaving this alone.”
Henry broke into a wide smile. “There we go. Don’t worry about it, you have the higher-ups supporting you. An eye for an eye.”
Henry had just finished speaking when someone knocked on the door.
Hearing that Mr. Powers had come to visit him, Henry spoke calmly, “Let him in.”
The door to the ward opened and Mr. Powers smiled bitterly at the sight of Jasper sitting indifferently on the hospital bed. “You look resentful, Mr. Laine.”
Life at the Top Chapter 692
“You must be joking, Mr. Powers. I just woke up. I don’t even know what has happened yet.”
Jasper knew that he could not blame Mr. Powers for what had happened. He was just angry about the fact that he had almost lost his life here in Reed City.
“I’m not here just to visit you, Mr. Laine. I was given a mission.”
Mr. Powers pulled out his phone and dialed a number before turning to Jasper. “The chief wishes to speak to you.”
Jasper’s heart skipped a beat. This ‘chief’ Mr. Powers spoke of must certainly be referring to the chief of Reed City’s government.
“Could everyone else please leave the room with me?” Mr. Powers requested politely.
Seeing Jasper nod, everyone left the room with Mr. Powers, leaving Jasper and one more person in the room.
…
An hour later.
Jasper called out to Wendy and the rest who were waiting by the door.
Wendy and Henry came in together.
“What did you talk about?” Wendy asked attentively.
Jasper smiled. “Nothing much. We just reestablished the relationship between us. We also showed our hands and talked a bit about the follow-up process, just so we both get a general idea of what’s going to happen.
“No one is allowed to interfere with the investment and no one is allowed to disrupt the peace in society.
“That was what the chief of Reed City’s government meant and it’s their stance on the matter.”
Henry pursed his lips. “Should’ve done that long ago.”
“Every place has its own rules, this goes for them too.” Jasper shook his head but did not dwell on the topic.
“This should be the end to Marcus and Ned, then!”
…
Marcus was in a horrible mood today, for he found out that the situation with Jasper was more complicated than he thought.
The only reason why the Coine family could have such a strong footing in Reed City was that Grandpa Coine was still alive.
While Grandpa Coine had been doing business in Reed City for years and never once left the city, he had quite a few friends outside.
Thus, the Coine family had gotten wind of what happened as well.
Even Swallow Capital had called the city government a few times after Jasper was sent to the hospital.
Apparently, a higher-up had made himself clear and scolded the chief of Reed City’s government. They were also using this incident as an example and discussed it during a private meeting.
Although he was hiding in Reed City, Marcus could tell that something was different.
“Seriously, Dad? Do I have to leave?” Marcus looked at Len and spoke unwillingly.
Len took a drag out of his cigarette and spoke grimly, “This is your grandfather’s idea. The situation has been blown up out of proportion and Jasper’s power lies further than just the Southeast Province… Basically, we were rash this time and you have to leave. I’ve already prepared the transport and everything else for you. You’ll be leaving Reed City on a ferry later in the afternoon and you’ll wait until everything smoothes out before you come back.
“No matter what happens after, you have to learn to be humble.”
Marcus was shocked when he heard Len’s pessimistic words. “What are you talking about, Dad? You’re telling me that Jasper’s going to topple us or something? No one would have the guts to do that in Reed City!”
“Reed City?” Len scoffed. “How big do you think Reed City is? And how big do you think the world outside is? Do you really think the Coine family stands above everyone?”
Life at the Top Chapter 693
Marcus paled. Fear and unease overwhelmed his chest as he paced around the room, complaining, “I thought they said that Jasper has woken up? That means he’s fine, no? So why won’t he just move on and leave us alone?”
“This isn’t just a conflict between us and Jasper anymore. Our situation has become a case study in meetings and the higher-ups need to give investors a sign of a good investing environment. To them, people like us have become an eyesore that must be removed,” Len spoke weakly and sighed deeply.
“Who does Jasper think he is? He’s hardly worth us becoming a topic of discussion with the higher-ups,” Marcus spoke disbelievingly.
Just then, the doors were slammed open and a bunch of uniformed officers entered.
“Who are you? What are you doing?! Do you even know where this is? Tell me what your leader’s name is! Who gave you the right to barge into my home?”
Startled, Marcus stared at the group of intruders and shouted fiercely.
However, these men no longer spoke courteously like they usually did and were being very formal. “Marcus Coine, you’re suspected of defrauding state-owned assets. We’re here to bring you in for investigation.”
With that, two officers stepped over and surrounded him.
Marcus was truly terrified now and he fought back while shouting at Len, “Dad! Save me!”
Len could not just watch and do nothing as they brought his son away, so he got up and spoke, “Please wait. I’d like to see—”
The leader of the team interrupted Len ruthlessly and spoke in a cold tone, “Mr. Coine, you have the right to remain silent. Everything you say can and will be used against him in the court of law.
“We have discovered a great deal of tax evasion from Fortune Co., Ltd. As its former chairman, you’re not completely clear from suspicion either so please come with us as well.”
Len forced down the unease within him and spoke, “Then I want to call my father.”
“According to the regulations, you’re not allowed to make any contact with the outside world from this moment on.
“Of course, you have the right to talk to your lawyer. Any communication with the outside world can be done through your lawyer.”
The officer then added, “Lastly, your father, Old Mr. Coine, is fully aware of our operation.”
At that, Len felt his world go dark and as though a huge weight was pressing over his chest. It felt like the world was ending.
The same situation happened with the Adkins. The only difference being that Ned and Fletcher were brought away from their hospital wards.
Fletcher had been gravely injured by a mysterious person the night before. It was paraplegia caused by an injury in the spine, meaning that he could only live the rest of his life in a wheelchair or on the hospital bed. There was not much of a difference whether he spent his days in jail or not.
…
No one had expected the Adkins and Coine families to topple so quickly.
The upper class of Reed City was rendered speechless.
The havoc stopped after the toppling of the two families, and the rest of the upper class continued to live their lives.
However, they were all aware that change had come to Reed City.
A foreign investor had managed to topple the Coine and the Adkins families.
No one had thought this would be possible before.
Everyone held their breaths as they waited for the next bomb to drop. Parents also reminded their kids to be mindful and not cause trouble outside, while more cautious parents even tried to send their children overseas—just to prevent any misstep at such a crucial time.
No one dared to step up and say something, opting to just keep their eyes on Reed City Hospital instead. They knew that the mastermind behind it all was currently lying in a hospital bed there.
Meanwhile, Jasper was currently hosting a guest in his ward.
His arrival came as a surprise, but at the same time, it was only logical he would be here.
A frail old man in his 80s was slowly walking. His head was full of white hair and there was a cane in his hand.
The old man entered the hospital room and greeted Jasper gently, “Hello. Let me introduce myself, I’m Peter Coine.”
Life at the Top Chapter 694
No longer confined to bed rest, Jasper got off the bed and respectfully invited the old man to take a seat.
“Please have a seat, Mr. Coine. Moving is still a little difficult for me and this place really isn’t appropriate, so I’ll skip out on asking you if you’d like some coffee this time.”
Jasper smiled. “Next time, then. I promise I’ll invite you to a cup of hot coffee next time, Mr. Coine.”
Peter smiled gently and waved him off. “Don’t worry about it. I’m not used to drinking coffee anyway. Alcohol, on the other hand, is always a good choice. But I’ve grown old and my body can’t take that anymore, so I’ve quit it.”
Jasper nodded. “That’s good, then. Seniors like you, Mr. Coine, are important people to us. It’s good to see you taking care of yourself.”
Peter was surprised by Jasper’s attitude. “I thought that our meeting would be an unhappy one, but I like you a lot, young man. Most importantly, I can tell that everything you’re saying and doing now comes from your heart—it’s genuine respect.”
Jasper spoke sternly, “It is truly what I think, after all. People like you are old heroes, Mr. Coine. Your generation is the reason why we can live such great lives. Your heroic achievements are things anyone of Somer descent should never forget.”
“Very good. Thank you for remembering our hard work,” Peter smiled softly and spoke.
At that, Peter pulled up his sleeve and showed a deep knife scar as well as a few bullet wounds. He explained, “These are from three different battles. See this scar? It was from a bayonet that had pierced right into the bone. These few other bullet wounds were also from the enemy troops. I have more wounds on me, but I’ll spare you the sight.”
Jasper looked at his own tightly wrapped shoulder and smiled. “Looks like I’m just weak, then.”
Peter waved him off and spoke slowly, “People grow old and their thoughts change as well. Look at me and the tough life I’ve lived. Despite the enemies’ bayonets and bullets, I lived to 80 only to send my children off instead of the other way around.”
Jasper remained silent.
“Mr. Laine…”
“Please don’t, Mr. Coine. Just call me Jasper.”
“Alright then, Jasper. I’ll get straight to the point. Seeing that I’m asking you, could you at least leave the Coine family a living descendant?”
Jasper replied calmly, “Mr. Coine, they’ve broken the law. While it is a huge offense, it will not result in the death penalty. I can’t be certain of the judge’s ruling because I’m not the judge, nor do I have any power to change their mind.”
“Jasper, I’m here to shamelessly beg you, so there’s no need for such a grand facade. Your attitude on this is key. A word from you and they’ll be out in a year or two. I may be old, but I still have a year or two in me. It’d be nice to have someone send me off, no?”
Jasper looked at Mr. Coine and spoke, “Logically speaking, Mr. Coine, considering your identity, such a request is in no way overboard. But I also heard that you didn’t stop the prosecution of Marcus and Len.”
Peter smiled. “What use is there in stopping them? They did this to themselves. Who knows how many wrongdoings they’ve committed with my name all these years.”
“That’s why it’s too late now.” Jasper sighed lightly. “I respect you as an old hero, Mr. Coine, but your heroic achievements should not be used to forgive the mistakes of your descendants. Mistakes should be stopped and corrected once they come to light.
“I’ve met other old heroes as well, but they’ve done their part to educate and instruct their own students and descendants.
“Of course, it’s not that I’m being unreasonable or inconsiderate. I can openly admit that there is resentment between me and them, and I must seek revenge. Think of it this way. If I had lost too much blood the other day and passed away then, who would seek justice for me?”
Mr. Coine fell silent at Jasper’s words.
“How about this, Mr. Coine? Regarding my personal resentment with them, I’ll let go of it for your sake. I have nothing against Len Coine, so as long as he pays up the tax he has evaded, I’m sure the judge will be merciful when he gives the verdict. Marcus, however… Let’s not discuss his issue anymore. Will that be alright?”
Peter stood and turned to Jasper. “If that’s the case, very well then.
“Rest up, it’s time I return.”
Peter then rejected Jasper sending him out and turned to leave.
Standing by the window, Jasper shook his head as he watched Peter slowly walk out of the hospital and get into a car.
‘Is Peter pitiful?
‘Very. An old man like him should not need to send off his descendants first.
‘But pitiful people are distasteful in their own way.
‘Peter just happens to be spoiling Marcus.’
Coincidentally, Jasper was a person who believed in treating the cause instead of the symptoms. Jasper did not like leaving himself with future complications.
There was no way Marcus would be released for another dozen or two years, while Len would have at least three to five years waiting for him. By the time they were released, they would have lost all their power and prestige as well.
…
Jasper’s talk with Peter marked an end to his incident with the Adkins and the Coine families.
Jasper was discharged the following day.
Once discharged, he immediately established a new agreement with the city government.
Since Marcus had breached the contract and was discovered to be involved in illegal activities, the plot of land he previously won from the bid would be returned as well. Now with 200 million Somer Dollars, the plot of land was sold to JW Electronics Equipment Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Following that, Jasper did not forget to benefit the local businesses. He distributed the design and construction projects for the factory to capable local companies.
This was how benefits worked. If Jasper wanted this factory of his to operate smoothly, he would need more than just the city government’s support. Recognition from the local forces was necessary as well.
These benefits were how Jasper showed his stance.
Without a doubt, JW Electronics had now become the next Coine family. However, the difference between the two parties was that everyone was earning money together now and benefiting from it.
Jasper’s actions had gained the favor of many uneasy local forces, and his reputation immediately spread throughout Reed City.
The equipment Jasper bought through the Law family had arrived as well, and in a week, the factory had already started to prepare for production in an orderly manner.
Jasper temporarily put Chad in charge of hiring workers and managerial teams in Reed City, while he quickly rushed back to Nauritus City.
He needed a professional team to further upgrade the patented MP3 player technology.
This was Jasper’s ultimate attack.
Life at the Top Chapter 695
Jasper took the Law family’s private plane back to Nauritus City.
“I’ve been thinking of getting ourselves a private plane as well once my cash flow isn’t as tight anymore.”
Jasper turned to tell Wendy as he sat in the comfortable interior of the private plane’s compartment.
Wendy pursed her lips and smiled. “I heard that it costs two to three million a year just to maintain a private plane. That’s a waste of money.”
Jasper shrugged. “A normal car needs maintenance too, but you wouldn’t choose not to buy a car just because you have to maintain it, right? It comes with much more convenience that outweighs the cost, and we have to think of the benefits it brings as well. It’s the same with a private plane. It’s safer, more comfortable, and more convenient—very much worth that few million Somer Dollars worth of maintenance.”
Sitting in front of them, Henry turned his head excitedly and asked, “How about you get me one too while you’re at it? Kayden is the only rich kid in Harbor City with a private plane and the rest of us are very envious.”
“This isn’t yours?” Jasper was surprised.
“As if my dad would be so generous.” Henry scoffed with an indignant expression.
“Forget buying me a private plane, he won’t even let me borrow this one here when I ask. He only had someone fly this plane over for me because he heard that you got hurt. The only other time I get to sit in this plane is when I tag along on his business trips.”
“Yeah, he really shouldn’t get you a plane.” Jasper attacked him mercilessly, saying, “You’d definitely have those ridiculous parties up in the sky if you got one, wouldn’t you?”
Henry’s expression darkened, but he was not going to give up so easily. “Both of us can share a plane, then? You’ll be the first Mainlander with a private plane while I’ll be the second Harbor City trust-fund baby with a private plane. Don’t you think that sounds cool?”
“I’ll think about it when the time comes. Definitely won’t be this year, though. I’ve invested in too many projects and I’m broke.” Jasper sighed.
Construction of Waterhoof Tower would cost him at least 16 billion, and the patented MP3 player technology as well as the electronics factory would cost another 700 to 800 million.
Then, the acquisition of Legends was most likely going to cost him quite a bit of money as well.
Jasper had once again realized how poor he was since many things required a much greater sum of funds…
The plane arrived at Nauritus City safely. Henry had many things to handle now that construction of the amusement park project was coming to an end, so he went to the construction site the moment they landed at the airport.
On the other hand, Jasper and Wendy took a trip to Schuler Manor.
“I’m back, Uncle Schuler,” Jasper greeted Dawson.
Seeing Jasper return alive and well, Dawson finally let out a sigh of relief and clapped Jasper’s shoulder. “Good. It’s great to have you back.”
“I’m sorry for worrying everyone this time,” Jasper apologized.
Dawson waved him off with a smile. “Just be more careful next time. I’m pretty sure Wendy lost her soul over this. On the day it happened, she kept claiming that she needed to go over no matter what. Remember, Jasper, you aren’t alone here. Your problems aren’t just yours anymore, there are countless people affected too.”
Jasper nodded. “I understand.”
“I didn’t want your parents to worry too much, so I hid it from them,” Dawson told him.
“It’s best that they don’t have to worry about this. My parents have already worried so much about my littlest problems that I just want them to live happily now that I can provide for them. What kind of son would I be if I still made them worry about this and that?
“Plus, I’m safe and sound, aren’t I? I’ll take some time to spend with them once all of this is over.” Jasper smiled.
Dawson spoke, “Sure. Go take a bath and rest. We’ll talk more after dinner.”
Life at the Top Chapter 696
After Dawson left, Jasper turned to hug Wendy. Smiling, he spoke, “Thank you.”
“For what?” Wendy tilted her head and blinked confusedly.
“Thank you for caring about me,” Jasper spoke as if he could not be any clearer.
“Who else is going to care about you if not me? Just promise you’ll be more careful next time. Those people are willing to do just anything for their own interests,” Wendy reminded.
Jasper nodded. “You’re right. What happened this time was a lesson to myself as well.
“They say good men know better than to stand where danger strikes. And while I wouldn’t call myself a good man, I’m terrified of dying. Reed City is a small place, but I suppose the fact that it’s small means that there’s more negligence with the law there. They’ve had a very smooth sailing history of doing business, so I got careless.”
Wendy spoke gently, “There are no predicting accidents. I don’t ask for much, I don’t even need all these riches. All I want is for you and Dad to be alive and well. That’s enough for me.”
“We’ve already come so far, and on our journey here, we’ve met great allies like the Law family as well as rivals of different calibers like the Monty and the Coine families.
“We will always have more enemies than friends. After all, the growth of a new family means the redistribution of interests and benefits. We’re threatening too many people’s livelihoods.
“The moment we lose everything, I’m afraid the people who’d come at us first will undoubtedly be these enemies of ours. So for your sake and for my own, I cannot stop here.”
Wendy leaned her head against Jasper’s chest after he finished speaking and replied, “I just want you to be safe.”
In no time, dinner was ready.
At the dining table, Jasper and Dawson chatted casually and the topic quickly returned to the Southface River Project.
“Construction of the whole Southface River will be done in another two months or so. JW Real Estates will become a name that’ll spread across the land.” Despite his age, Dawson could not help but feel excited at the idea.
Dawson and Jasper, being the people involved, were the only ones aware of how much effort they had invested into this project.
Jasper had analyzed the country’s development plan for the next 20 years and poured the information he knew into the Southface River Project. The goal of it was to loudly broadcast JW Real Estates’ name to the entire country.
He would also use this opportunity to build the foundation for the country’s first private real estate company.
“Making a name for JW Real Estates is much more important than profits. We never planned on earning much with the Southface River Project. It’d be great if we can even earn our money’s worth back. The benefits of this project lie in the fact that it’s long-term and sustainable.
“That’s why I plan to keep all shops, office buildings, and most living districts under JW Real Estates as they are. They’ll be on a rent-only basis.”
Hearing Jasper, Dawson nodded. “I agree.”
Wendy blinked. “Are you that confident? What if the project ends up making a loss…”
Suddenly realizing that she might have jinxed it, Wendy stopped talking apologetically.
Jasper smiled. “I am confident. As far as I’m concerned, the Southface River Project will become the benchmark project for all future city developments in the country. Its influence will be immense, and the fact that no one believes it now is precisely what puts us at an advantage.
“Oh, Uncle Schuler, how did it go with the expert from the Southeast Province Research Institute of Sciences I asked you to help contact?” Jasper asked.
Dawson smiled. “The head of the Research Institute of Sciences and I are friends. But you know how it is with experts, they don’t normally respect businessmen like us. They’re hard to talk to sometimes, but I got you a chance to meet him. Just bring the materials over tomorrow.
“Just to remind you, these people don’t care about money. Technology matters more to them than their own lives, so how you talk to them really matters.”
Life at the Top Chapter 697
The following day, Jasper sat in his Bentley that he had greatly missed and arrived at the provincial Research Institute of Sciences.
While Southeast Province had contributed a lot to scientific research, the small run-down building before him revealed a very real issue.
The country was in dire need of economic development, so most of the money would go into construction or investment. Thus, it resulted in a grave decrease in investments in scientific research.
After instructing Julian to wait for him in the car, Jasper entered the run-down building that seemed to have three or four decades’ worth of history.
Following the address Dawson had given him, Jasper arrived outside an office and knocked on the door.
“Come in.” A man’s raspy voice sounded from inside the office.
Jasper walked in and saw a man in his 50s wearing a white lab coat. He was tinkering with a chip behind his office desk.
What was supposed to be a clean lab coat was now dirty, and the man’s hair that looked like a bird’s nest greatly aged his appearance.
The man paid Jasper no attention once he entered. Instead, Jasper found him murmuring something as if he was trying to solve a hard problem—all while fiddling with the chip in his hand.
Jasper did not rush him, opting to wait patiently by the side.
Jasper took in the decor of the office. It was simple and very messy. Equipment could be found all over the place and most of them were rather old. It was evident that they had not been keeping up with the times.
The most eye-catching part of the room were the certificates and awards that covered the better half of the wall. Those were all testaments to the owner of this office’s success and glory.
After ten full minutes, the man looked up and saw Jasper. Only then did he put the chip down, speaking slightly apologetically, “Sorry, I can’t really stop when I’m researching. I totally forgot about you.”
Jasper smiled. “Don’t worry about it. You must be Professor Elbert McGee, I assume?”
Elbert replied, “I am. You must be the businessman the head introduced, Ja… Jas…”
“Jasper,” he introduced himself after seeing how Elbert had forgotten.
Elbert knocked his forehead with his palm and replied, “Ah, yes. Jasper.”
“How can I help you?” Elbert asked straightforwardly.
Jasper took a seat and spoke, “I’ve come to invite you to be my company’s chief technical expert, Professor McGee.”
Without thinking, Elbert shook his head. “No way. I just want to do my research in peace. I don’t want anything to do with businessmen like you.”
As far as Elbert was concerned, businessmen and people like him were completely different. Businessmen were willing to do anything for the sake of profits. His research that he had spent time and effort on would only become money-making tools once it fell in the hands of a businessman.
“I understand your concerns, Professor McGee, but hasn’t it crossed your mind that no matter how capable a researcher you are, what new technology can you come up with in such a working environment?”
Jasper did not seem to be affected by Elbert’s attitude, and he debated back in the calmest tone with a truth that Elbert could not refute.
As expected, Elbert opened his mouth a few times only to close it back again.
He had applied for five million in research funds for several projects, and the amount was already the lowest possible amount needed after going through multiple budget cuts. Still, a year after making the application, all he had now was two million.
It was not that someone was trying to cut costs with his projects, for the institution itself had limited research funds. There was too much demand than there was supply. After splitting the funds among everyone, he only had less than half of what he needed. There was nothing anyone could do about that.
“I can provide you with sufficient research funds and the respect you’re worth. Plus, please take a look at this, Professor McGee.” Jasper then reached out for the patented MP3 player technology he brought with him and handed it to Elbert.
Elbert glanced at Jasper doubtfully but took the piece of research. Upon opening it, Elbert found himself deeply entranced by the treasure in his hands. The papers were filled with technical data and sketches that Jasper did not understand.
Seeing how Elbert’s eyes shone as though he was a parched man finding water, Jasper smiled softly. He knew that he had succeeded this time.
…
While Jasper was negotiating with Elbert in the Research Institute of Sciences, in a villa on the other end of Nauritus City.
“So you’re telling me that the sample will be out in less than a week?” Conrad asked, looking at the sharp and confident in front of him.
Valentine Estrada smiled softly. “Don’t worry, Mr. Monty. I wouldn’t say such a thing to you unless I was absolutely certain.”
Conrad nodded extremely contentedly. “Well done. I spent a lot of money hiring you from overseas, and it seems I’ve made the right step.
“There’s one more thing you need to pay attention to.”
Conrad passed Valentine a document and spoke, “JW Electronics are manufacturing MP3 players as well, but they do not have the license to do so.”
Valentine was stunned. The country lacked awareness when it came to patents and copyrights, so it was very common to see pirated products. In all honesty, normal people did not actually care about such a thing. However, the fact that Conrad, the only person in the country with the license to manufacture the MP3 player, was raising the issue meant that there was more to this than Valentine thought.
“Do you wish for us to pick on them, Mr. Monty?” Valentine asked.
Conrad smiled faintly. “Pirating without patent rights is a very severe problem overseas, right, Valentine?”
Valentine nodded seriously. “It is. The moment such an incident is found overseas, it does not matter how many funds were involved, the company would surely be sued to the point of bankruptcy while the person in charge of the company would also have to face civil responsibilities. That’s why almost no one dares to do such a thing overseas.’
“Our country has a Patent Copyright Protection Act as well.” Conrad thrummed his fingers on the desk. “Do you understand what I’m trying to say?”
Valentine’s eyes shone as he replied, “I understand. I’ll gather as much evidence as I can once I return and sue this JW Electronics. As long as you give me enough support, I can very well beat them in a court case.”
“Don’t worry. You’ll get as much support as you need.” Conrad waved him off. “Go wild!”
Life at the Top Chapter 698
On Jasper’s end, he had brought out enough bargaining chips to pique Elbert’s interest and surprise him immensely.
“Mr. Laine, this is the most advanced MP3 player design document in the world. Where did you get it?”
Elbert asked Jasper excitedly in the Southeast Province Research Institute of Sciences.
Jasper smiled. “Obviously through legal means. I bought it from the original creator, Damond Golding. Does the technology look difficult?”
Elbert smiled confidently. “I know about Damond. He’s a very talented technician, but I’m not horrible either. With this document, I can most certainly copy the MP3 player.”
“No. A simple copy isn’t enough.” Jasper shook his head.
“Why would I ask you for help if all I wanted was a complete copy with no technical expertise, Professor McGee? I’d be able to do that with a few research students with Masters in scientific research. What I want is an improved and upgraded version.”
Elbert furrowed his brows deeply at Jasper’s words and replied curtly, “You don’t know anything about technology, Mr. Laine. A mature piece of patented technology is like a system of interlocking gears. Any slight change somewhere would result in a huge difference.”
With that, Elbert then pointed at the stack of technological papers. “I can tell you that if I make the slightest change to any single thing here, the entire technology will end up failing. This isn’t as simple as you think.”
“What if I just want to add a screen?” Jasper asked.
Elbert was stunned for a moment, and his brows furrowed as he fell deep in thought.
“It shouldn’t be that difficult if I’m just adding things instead of changing anything. I’ll just have to leave a spot on the circuit board to attach the screen and rewrite the code.”
At that, Jasper smiled. “Would you be interested, Professor McGee?”
Elbert hesitated.
“I promise that as long as you agree to be JW Electronics’ chief technological officer, a status on par with the CFO, you’ll be paid two million a year with at least a 10% increase each following year. You’ll also enjoy the company’s dividends.”
Elbert looked conflicted.
“I also promise you complete authority to appoint and dismiss other technicians. You are free to lead your professional team to research all related areas and you’ll receive at least 50 million research funds from the company every year. Of course, any patent rights of your research will belong to the company, but you and your team will have a right to 10% of the patent, Professor McGee.”
Elbert shot to his feet and asked excitedly, “Really?”
Elbert seemed to care much more about research funds than his salary.
Jasper smiled bitterly.
However, it was employees like Elbert whom Jasper did not need to worry about.
“I’ve promised you, haven’t I? A businessman values his word.” Jasper smiled. “However, if you’d like more assurance, Professor, we could sign an employment contract right now.”
Elbert seemed embarrassed when he spoke again, “That’s not what I meant. I’m technically still working in the research institute, so I have to resign from the institute first before I can sign the contract with you… It’s just that I have two friends and six students with me. I was wondering if I could bring them as well?
“Don’t worry, those two friends are both experts in electronics and integrated circuits respectively. We don’t care too much about our salaries, but research funds…”
Jasper interrupted Elbert and spoke, “Professor McGee, as I said, you have complete authority over the appointment and dismissal of your team of technicians. There’s no need for you to bring it up with me.”
Life at the Top Chapter 699
Elbert spoke elatedly, “That’s wonderful. I’ll contact my friends right away and report to you in the shortest time possible.”
Jasper smiled and got up. “Very well, then. I shall await your and your team’s arrival.”
“I have a small request.” Elbert pointed at the document and asked, “Could you leave the documents with me? I still want to do some research and there are a few points worth borrowing from.”
Jasper replied, “Of course. Although, we’re a little short on time so I’d prefer if you made improving the MP3 player your current priority, Professor. There’ll be a lot of time in the future for you to slowly research what you wish.”
“Of course!” Elbert laughed aloud as he was in a great mood. He could tell that Jasper was very different from other businessmen; he was not money-hungry like the others.
After agreeing with Elbert, Jasper got up and left. There was still a lot he had to do so he could not stay in Elbert’s office any longer.
The following few days were spent communicating with Chad, who was in Reed City, about the construction progress and the equipment installation in the factory over there.
With money and the support of Reed City’s government, the factory was being constructed at a terrifying speed.
In less than a week, the first batch of three 25,000 square feet factories were constructed and furnished.
To speed up the process, Jasper and Chad had decided to first complete construction of the first batch of factories, consisting of three factory buildings, and leave the other factories as well as the production district to be constructed while work began.
The day the three factories were completed, equipment installation and commissioning began as well.
“Mr. Laine, the 200 workers we’ve recruited have already completed their technical training under the skilled workers and managers we spend a lot of money to hire from other electronics factories.”
Jasper nodded in satisfaction when he heard Chad’s report through the video call.
“Good job. That’s already considerably fast. I’ve already contacted Elbert and his team has already completed the key research for the upgraded design of the patented MP3 player technology. The result should be ready in two days so I’d like you to try to produce a sample first.”
Chad hummed in acknowledgment and then suddenly spoke, “Mr. Laine, I heard that a domestically manufactured MP3 player is about to appear on the market? They’re already advertising it?”
Jasper nodded. “Indeed. They’re also a business based here in Southeast Province. It’s likely that they’ve successfully created a sample, so they’ve begun advertising through all large television stations as well as newspapers. The public should be made aware very soon.”
“Doesn’t that mean we’ve lost the element of surprise, Mr. Laine?” Chad asked despondently.
“It’s alright. We’ve got a unique advantage when it comes to advertising. So long as our product is on the market, no one will be able to compete against us in terms of advertisements. The only thing we need is enough goods and an upgrade in the product’s technology when our MP3 player becomes publicly available.”
Chad nodded seriously at Jasper’s words.
“Alright then, Mr. Laine. I’ll get back to work first. I promise to get a sample out as fast as we can the moment your technology over there is complete.”
Jasper let out a light exhale after he ended the video call with Chad
On his table was an issue of today’s Southeast Province Morning Post with the MP3 player advertisement printed on the most prominent spot.
Just then, Jasper’s phone rang.
Connecting the call, Jasper heard a familiar voice drift through.
“I was both relieved and disappointed to find out you lived, Jasper.”
Life at the Top Chapter 700
“You must’ve been very busy lately, Mr. Monty. And yet you’ve taken the time to find out how I’ve been as of late. I’m flattered, truly.”
Leaning against the sofa, Jasper replied. He knew that the call was from Conrad right when the man spoke.
Conrad chuckled on the other end of the line. “Looks like you’ve been attentive to my situation as well, then?”
“Not too different, are we? Though in comparison to the people you sent to follow me, I’d say my attention is hardly worth mentioning.”
Conrad harrumphed at Jasper’s words and spoke, “I heard that you took a trip to Coreana to buy the patent for MP3 players?”
“Didn’t you buy the patent before I could, Mr. Monty? Why would you ask if you already knew?” Jasper spoke calmly with no hint of displeasure in his tone.
Conrad chuckled. “Since you already know that I’m the one with the patented technology, then why would you still dare to manufacture MP3 players in your factory in Reed City? You’re a brave man.”
Jasper replied calmly, “You’ve misunderstood, Mr. Monty. What my factory in Reed City manufactures are merely small trinkets that you would never be interested in, Mr. Monty.
“Why, Mr. Monty? Are you worried about something?” Jasper asked intently.
Conrad’s expression darkened as he replied calmly, “Let’s not beat around the bush, Jasper. We have history between us, and this is far from the end of it. You wanted the patent rights to the MP3 player, so I decided to fight you for it and be one step ahead of you.
“Initially, I had just planned to pose an inconvenience to you. But I’ve realized that the MP3 player could be a very promising product in the country’s market. I’ve got to thank you for your guidance, or I’d never have found such a suitable way to make profits in such a short time.
“I’m the only one allowed to manufacture the MP3 player in the country now, so I suggest you be a little smarter and not think of little tricks. Or I’ll make you pay until you go bankrupt!”
Conrad chuckled before continuing, “You must be so angry, so pissed, so reluctant to give up, hmm? Because even though you found out about it first, I still stole it from you. One step is all it takes. You’ll never catch up to me now. I have the higher ground now, so how are you going to beat me this time?”
Jasper replied calmly, “I don’t really mind putting the entire JW Electronics at risk, Mr. Monty. If I do end up losing all of that, I’ll just treat it as having not earned anything from the aluminum company incident before. Now that I think about it, you were indirectly the one who gave me that money, weren’t you, Mr. Monty?”
“You!’
Fury burst from within Conrad. He had only ever lost once in his life yet this one loss had become a nightmare he could never escape from.
Jasper’s name had become Conrad’s trigger. Conrad only had to think of that man and he would completely lose all his composure.
“Haha!”
Conrad forcibly pushed the anger aside and spoke coldly, “We’ve got a long road ahead of us. So what if you win once? The one with the last word is the true winner, Jasper. You’ve already lost once, what makes you think you can win this time?
“Just you wait. You won’t be able to do anything but watch as I slowly take up all domestic MP3 player market shares. The money should’ve been yours, but you’ll have no way of getting it. All you can do is watch and drool. Of course, perhaps I’ll give you a chance or two to earn money if I’m in a good mood.
“But as to whether that’s good or bad money, that’s not for you to decide! I’ll decide and you’ll take what I give you!”
With that, Conrad hung up the phone.
Despite knowing that he had the upper hand, Conrad could not seem to lift his mood.
He threw the phone aggressively and took the new MP3 player sample from his table. Looking at the silver coating, Conrad asked grimly, “Can this thing be mass-produced yet?”
Valentine replied confidently, “All manufacturing lines have already been installed. It can be mass-produced any time.”
“Good!” Conrad’s mood lightened a little.
“Then begin production. Contact the sales department as well. We can sign contracts with business clients who’ve been requesting it but remember to raise the bar. We’re the country’s first domestic brand for MP3 players. It’s not something any Tom, Dick, or Harry can sell on our behalf.”
Valentine nodded after Conrad finished speaking. “One more question, Mr. Monty. What should we name this MP3 player of ours? And how should we price it?”
“Its name…”
Conrad fell silent for a bit and replied, “Let’s call it Melody. As for its price, it’s selling for 2,000 bucks overseas so there’s no reason for us to sell it at a cheap price. Let’s do 1,800 bucks per MP3 player.”
Conrad then scoffed and fiddled with the sample. “It costs us no more than 500 to 600 bucks to produce, yet we’re selling it easily at 1,800. What a profit.”
“How’s it going with the rights protection materials I had you prepare?”
Valentine smiled and replied, “Don’t worry, Mr. Monty. I’ve already prepared most of it. All we need to do now is for JW Electronics to start manufacturing. We can sue them the moment that happens and we can also request for all the company’s factories to be seized.”
“Good!” Conrad was excited, and his eyes shone with excitement. “I’ve been waiting for this day for too long. Don’t you dare disappoint me, Jasper. Produce your MP3 players as fast as you can.”
“I have a question, Mr. Monty.”
“About that Jasper, the owner of JW Electronics… If he knows that you have the patent rights, why did he still build a factory to manufacture it? Or perhaps he isn’t really planning on manufacturing MP3 players? In that case, won’t all our hard work be for naught?”
Conrad was in a great mood, so he explained patiently, “You don’t know Jasper. We’ve fought before and I can tell you that he’s a very calm man. It’s almost as if he doesn’t really care about anything.
“But it’s people like him who are truly arrogant. He thinks that he’s the strongest of us all. The reason why he doesn’t get calculative with anyone is that he doesn’t even think they’re worth his time.”
Conrad then pointed at his nose and continued, “Even I’m among the group of people he looks down on. So this factory of his is definitely manufacturing MP3 players. There’s no way it can be anything else. Perhaps he thinks he has another trick up his sleeve to counter me.”
At that, Conrad locked his fingers together and put them behind his head before leaning comfortably against the big office chair. Squinting, he looked at the ceiling and spoke calmly, “So this time, I’m going to crush him under my foot without giving him the chance to ever turn the tables!”