Chapter 28: Chapter 28: A Ten Billion Dollar Sky-High Price!
Ethan leaned back in his chair, his thoughts drifting to the vast business landscape of this parallel world. Among the titans dominating the market, Panex Group stood near the top, one of the top five domestic corporations.
The group had started humbly in real estate before expanding into healthcare, entertainment, and numerous other industries. Under its former chairman Max Sullivan, Panex had soared to unprecedented heights. Max had even held the title of the richest man in the Alverez Kingdom for years.
But everything changed a year ago when he passed away, leaving his empire to his son, Charles Sullivan.
Charles Sullivan was a stark contrast to his father. Known for his flamboyant lifestyle and aggressive tactics, he was infamous as a playboy, frequently appearing in tabloids for his ever-changing relationships and extravagant parties.
And despite internal opposition, Charles consolidated his power and took control of the company, steering it in a bold and unrelenting direction: genetic biology.
Six months ago, Charles had formed the Biolife Alliance, a massive network of distributors and advertisers, controlling over 60% of the genetic biology market's channels. He began aggressively acquiring biotech firms nationwide, including Ciguli Biotech, spending tens of billions in the process. His ambition was clear, complete domination of the genetic biology industry.
And now, his sights had shifted to Pokémon Biotechnology.
---
Ethan didn't need a detailed breakdown of Charles Sullivan's intentions. Panex's recent investment in Ciguli Biotech made their moves transparent. Secretary Sloan's arrogant attitude earlier only cemented Ethan's resolve.
An hour later, Annie Wheeler called again.
"Mr. Grave, Secretary Sloan left. He looked pretty upset, he kept pacing in the lounge and demanding updates. I told him you were on your way back. Heh."
Her mischievous tone hinted at satisfaction in watching the secretary's frustrations.
"Good job," Ethan replied with a chuckle. "Let's see if he's foolish enough to come back this afternoon."
---
By 2 PM, a commotion arose outside Ethan's office.
"Annie, check what's going on," Ethan said, his brow furrowing slightly.
Moments later, Annie returned, looking uneasy. "Mr. Grave… it's Secretary Sloan. He's back."
Before she could finish, the door swung open, and a man in glasses, exuding smug confidence, strode into the office uninvited.
"So, you're Ethan Grave," Secretary Sloan said, his tone sharp and condescending as he openly scrutinized Ethan.
Ethan stood, his patience thinning. "Mr. Sloan, is there a reason you've barged into my office? Does Panex Group consider this appropriate conduct?"
"I showed you respect this morning," Secretary Sloan retorted, his voice icy. "But you deliberately avoided me, so I had no choice but to force my way in."
Ethan's gaze hardened. "I had important guests this morning, and you didn't schedule an appointment. What did you expect me to do, cancel my plans for you? Now, why are you here?"
Without answering directly, Secretary Sloan pulled a document from his bag and slapped it onto Ethan's desk. "Our chairman, Mr. Charles Sullivan, wants to acquire your company. Write any figure under 10 billion, it's yours."
The contract was blank in the acquisition price field, inviting Ethan to name his terms.
Ethan blinked at the audacity, then calmly pushed the document back. "I'm sorry, but my company isn't for sale."
Secretary Sloan's eyebrow twitched, his irritation barely concealed. "This isn't a negotiation. Mr. Sullivan's offer is final. 10 billion is the cap, don't even think about bargaining."
"And why, exactly, must I sell?" Ethan replied coolly.
Leaning forward, Secretary Sloan smirked. "Mr. Sullivan had a friendly chat with the director of the evaluation agency last night at a banquet. Let's just say, with a few billion in the right places, companies like yours can be 'handled' quite easily."
The threat hung in the air, heavy and unmistakable.
Ethan leaned back, feigning a thoughtful expression before sighing theatrically. "Does Panex Group always operate like this? If you're so confident, then go ahead. Try it. Let's see how far you get."
His calm stemmed from the morning's events. Secretary Elijah's visit and the implicit support from Tarvok City's government gave Ethan solid ground. Alverez Kingdom's strict anti-corruption policies made overt collusion risky, even for a giant like Panex.
Secretary Sloan's expression darkened as Ethan's defiance became clear. He slammed the contract onto the desk again. "You don't seem to understand your position. Think carefully. I'll give you three days to reconsider. Next time I come, I hope you'll have the right answer."
Without waiting for a response, he stormed out.
"Moron," Ethan muttered, watching the secretary leave. He glanced at the contract, then tossed it into the trash, the arrogance and threats almost laughable.
---
The office was silent until Annie broke it hesitantly. "Mr. Grave… that was 10 billion. And you refused without even blinking."
Ethan walked to the window, gazing out with his hands behind his back. "This company, these creatures, Pichu and the others they're priceless treasures. Ten billion? It's meaningless. Even a hundred billion wouldn't be enough."
He turned back to Annie, his voice growing firmer. "Panex doesn't care about what we've built. They only want the technology. If we sold, everything we've worked for would be dismantled and absorbed into their empire. That's not an option."
Annie swallowed, her admiration for Ethan clear in her eyes. "Mr. Grave… I truly admire you."
...
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