Re: Life - Business Technology

by Stayrr

From middle-class to running the most valuable corporation on Earth, based in Austin, Texas. Join a tired yet talented 23-year-old man working in the IT industry during the pandemic, who suddenly received the chance to relive his life a decade in the past (2011). Join Vince Dalton to pursue prosperity and fulfillment for himself, his sick mother, and friends. Money and power will n

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Re: Life - Business Technology #Chapter 33 - Future Tech F1 - Read Re: Life - Business Technology Chapter 33 - Future Tech F1 Online - All Page - Novel Bin

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"We have a Sebastian Vettel at Red Bull taking pole position, while Lewis Hamilton is starting in second place for McLaren. The other Red Bull of Mark Webber will trail them in third position." David Crofty said from the commenter box.

Vince and his group listened to the closing remarks before bidding farewell to Mr. Mallya.

Randall would be racing in Formula 2 in an hour after their teams finished preparing.

[The kid's got talent if he only needs one more win to become eligible for a super license.] Vince thought as their group walked to the FIA meeting room.

An old french man with white flowing hair wearing a business suit was waiting inside.

Vince decided to leave the two security operators and felt safe enough with Price around.

Christian introduced Jean Todt to Vince and Price before sitting down around a meeting table.

"I've reviewed the specifications of the Freevalve system Koenigsegg Motors recently developed. With your assistance, of course, young Dalton." Mr. Todt stated with an air of class and a french accent.

"You can tell by the performance tests that Freevalve should be involved in the pinnacle of motorsport," Christian said proudly.

"I understand the gravity of your innovation in engine performance, but government policies are forcing Formula 1 to reduce emissions and manufacturing costs. As a result, Freevalve may be too expensive for our next formula update." Mr. Todt replied.

"Freevalve engines are 20% more fuel-efficient than a current formula one car, and Vince's Hive Mind manufacturing drones have significantly reduced the engine's manufacturing cost," Christian added.

"If Future Tech can bear some cost in implementing Freevalve in Mercedes', Ferrari's, and McLaren's engines, then this deal is most certainly possible." Jean Todt replied with an amiable smile.

[Engine manufacturing is the most expensive expense in Formula 1 cars. The FIA is taking full advantage of my involvement in this deal.] Vince thought.

The meeting was quick and done in 10 minutes. Jean Todt was forthcoming and wasted no time.

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Mallya had called David to negotiate the deal, and David sent him a contract prepared beforehand.

David arrived at COTA within the hour to sign the deal with his power of attorney. He was fully prepared because Vince discussed his interest in purchasing a team with him last weekend.

The Formula 2 race was about to start in 15 minutes, and Randall was preparing himself, but he heard some commotion around the paddock.

"Good day to all our viewers watching the Formula 2 feature race here at Austin, Texas. We have several young drivers racing today on the cusp of winning the F2 championship: Luciano Bacheta, Matheo Tusher, and Randall Stevens, a local here at Austin." David Croft said in his British accent as he started the broadcast.

Martin Brundle and David Croft were talking about the upcoming race. David interjected Martin's monologue after receiving a note from the Sky F1 staff.

"I've just received notice of a new owner in Formula 1, Martin. The local fans will love this news." Crofty said mysteriously.

"Alright. Tell us before I lose my patience." Martin replied jokingly.

"The young Austinian, Vince Dalton had purchased Sahara Force India for $250 million. So, Martin, what do you think about this deal?" Crofty asked.

"Firstly, both seats in the team are now in limbo. It will affect the driver's market for next season. Secondly, rumors of a new engine proposal from Koenigsegg and Future Tech will significantly impact the entire formula." Martin replied.

Regular Formula 2 viewers started posting about the news online. Subreddits like r/Formula 1 and r/AutoRacing were filled with an excited buzz while sports news outlets were preparing their content to release.

Around twenty Formula 2 cars lined up at the main straight after doing their formation lap.

Randall started in third and had a good view of the first steep left turn while revving his engine in idle.

Five red lights started to blink, and the race commenced.

Randall had a great start and went left, going side by side with Luciano.

Luciano was brave trying to take the outside racing line on the breaks, but he misjudged his braking point.

He narrowly missed Matheo, who started in second place and lost two positions.

Randall took the lead by taking the inside racing line and drove through the famous COTA esses in blistering speed.

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Matheo fought hard to keep up but lost the tread on his tires too soon and pitted for new tires early.

Luciano tried to go for the long strategy and stayed out and waited for Randall to pit.

The strategy didn't work out as Randall reentered the race far in front after pitting.

Randall won the race with 3 seconds to spare and ultimately won the championship at the last Formula 2 race of the season.

"What a fantastic performance from our young drivers. Congratulations to Randal Stevens for winning the race and the championship!" Crofty declared through his microphone.

Martin walked down towards the pitlane to do the winner's interview.

"Salutations to you, young Stevens. How does it feel to be the Formula 2 champion for this season." Martin asked.

"I feel amazing! I want to thank my family, the team, and our sponsors who made this all possible. Austin, make some noise!" Randall shouted to the mic.

The crowd started cheering for their town hero for the day.

"What does this win mean for your prospects in Formula 1? Top teams like Ferrari or McLaren will want a young and hungry driver like yourself." Martin asked.

"I'd already made my decision last week. Future Tech F1 will be my new home next season." Randall replied proudly.

"I didn't expect that answer. We've only known about the acquisition since before the race began." Martin said curiously.

"Vince promised me the seat last week as long as I won this race," Randall replied.

"Fair enough. Congratulations, and I'll be looking forward to seeing you in Formula 1 next year." Martin replied before ending the interview.

[The kid is quick, alright.] Vince thought after watching the race.

Stats last time checked:

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$74.5 Billion in Future Tech

8350 employees (Future Studios, Hive Mind AI, ARM, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1)

Five company collaborators

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings

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Report chapter Comments

Vince met with Randall and invited him to dinner with his group.

They ate at a BBQ place Price suggested.

Randall rode with Christian in the Agera R while others drove in the Phantom.

Vince spent some time getting to know more about his new F1 driver while the older gentlemen were drinking to celebrate our new deal with the FIA.

They planned to watch the Formula 1 race the next day before bidding farewells.

"I heard you bought an F1 team. Why didn't you tell me?" Christian asked.

"I still wasn't sure which team I'd buy and just decided on the spot," Vince replied with an excuse.

"Okay. But I'll persuade Jean to allow Koenigsegg to supply your team with engines for next year." Christian insisted.

"Good luck with that. We'll have an advantage as the developers of the Freevalve system. Jean will disagree." Vince said.

"I have my ways in dealing with Jean," Christian replied confidently.

After arriving at Vince's villa, he contacted Kyle, instructing him and a portion of Future Studios and FT VR to work with his new F1 team's simulation division.

[I didn't mention it to Mr. Mallya, but I also wanted physics simulation engineers to help develop the new Future Tech VR system. Value deal right there.] Vince thought.

Christian, Vince, Price, and Randall returned to COTA the next day to watch the Formula 1 race.

News reporters were approaching their group to ask Vince questions about his new F1 team.

"Randall had already taken one seat for next year. Have you decided on a second driver yet?" an interviewer asked Vince.

"I trust my team's current race director to fill the role before the new season starts," Vince answered.

"On a separate subject, Time Magazine had named you the person of the year beating out President Obama and Tim Cook. What do you feel about this?" the interviewer asked.

"It's an honor, of course. There are billions of people on Earth, and they chose me." Vince replied.

"Future Tech has changed how our society interacts with the digital world, yet there's more to come," Vince added confidently.

"Thank you for taking the time and answering our questions." the interviewer said humbly.

The race started an hour later. It was the typical battle between the major teams in F1.

Sahara Force India didn't do too well, and Lewis Hamilton overtook Sebastian Vettel midrace, eventually winning.

A larger crowd from yesterday were cheering after enjoying the Formula 1 race, held in the USA for the first time since the 2007 Indianapolis Grand Prix.

Lewis Hamilton completed the podium with himself at the top step.

Music was playing as the three drivers popped their huge champagne bottles in celebration.

Jean Todt officially announced the new regulations for the next season, featuring the Freevalve system. Koenigsegg would join Mercedes, Ferrari, and Renault as engine manufacturers, supplying Future Tech F1.

A few hours later, at Vince's home. Aiya reminded Vince about his meeting with General Douglas he'd been putting off the next day.

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[Christian's flight to Sweden and mine to DC will be early tomorrow. So I'll need to get some rest soon.] Vince thought.

Christian bade farewells before leaving in the Phantom. Vince had a security operator drive him to the airport.

Vince drove the Agera SFV with Price to Future Tech's private hangar with security personnel in tow.

Vince recently ordered a luxury 787 Dreamliner from Boeing for $200 million. It could seat 40 people and reach anywhere around the world in one fuel tank.

The group of five boarded the private jet and chose their seats.

[Now, this is first class.] Vince thought excitedly.

They were all served food and drinks by a group of beautiful stewardesses.

It was an utterly comfortable few hours of flight to DC.

Black SUVs were already waiting for their arrival to bring them to the White House. General Douglas insisted on meeting Vince Dalton with the presence of the US president.

They arrived in front of the White House half an hour later, with the help of presidential escorts.

The secret service insisted on disarming my security for a good reason.

Price gave them his pistol while the other security operators were removing all their weapons.

They surrendered heavily modified machine pistols hidden in their suits, extra ammo magazines attached to their body armor on their lower backs.

They also handed over assorted knives and security accessories in their pockets.

The secret service agent was dumbfounded in how heavy Vince's security rolled.

Secret service brought Vince and the others into the Oval Office.

[The White House is a fortress. I've only seen the outside of the White House in my previous life.] Vince thought.

A caucasian man in a military uniform in his late fifties sat across Barack Obama, one of the most powerful men in the world.

General Douglas introduced himself and the president after.

"It's a pleasure to meet the 2012 person of the year finally." President Obama said with an amiable smile.

"The pleasure is mine. It's an honor to meet up in person, Mr. President." Vince replied.

Vince introduced Price as his head of physical and cybersecurity while the others stayed outside for the meeting.

"Are you aware of why we've scheduled this meeting?" General Douglas asked.

"The request was vague, but I do have a rough idea," Vince replied.

"Our NSA agents have reported Future Tech employing security drones at your tech campus." General Douglas mentioned.

"That is indeed the case. Our patrol drones assist the local police department in quickening their response times in case of emergencies." Vince replied.

"The Pentagon would like to use your autonomous drone technology in our war efforts in Afghanistan." General Douglas declared.

[I knew this would happen eventually. I have my principles but would need to compromise.] Vince thought.

"How exactly do you want our autonomous drones to assist in the war?" Vince asked.

"We'll install them on attack bombers." General Douglas replied.

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[That's too much. I can't have the military dropping bombs autonomously using my technology.] Vince thought angrily.

"I understand that the US military uses unmanned predator drones already. So it would be redundant." Vince replied.

"You're but a child. You don't understand the military as much as I do." General Douglas angrily replied.

"Calm down, Douglas. I'm sorry about his sudden outburst. He's very passionate about the military." Obama said.

"I can see that," Vince added.

"You understand Future Tech technology more than Douglas or I. So what would you suggest, Vince?" Obama asked.

"I understand that unmanned drones have pilots. However, it's ultimately these pilots' decision to shoot or drop bombs. They're human and are capable of making or changing their choices. AI drones do not." Vince said.

"I suggest providing these pilots with more intelligence and information about their targets.

Then, ensure they destroy the correct buildings and eliminate their chosen targets. With the use of autonomous recon drones in the sky and on the ground."

You can outfit your current aerial recon drones with Future Tech AI, and our robotics division can supply each infantry squad with a terrestrial recon bot that can clear urban environments and tag targets in rooms or buildings." Vince added.

[I can't just say no to the military. The DOD will drag me in front of the Senate and force a deal down my throat.] Vince thought.

A similar case happened with Microsoft in his previous life. They found out the army was using the Holo Lens to train and equip infantry units.

Microsoft didn't want anything to do with direct military involvement but was forced to sign a deal, officially selling batches of Holo Lenses to the Pentagon.

"Those ideas sound quite compelling. What do you think, Douglas?" Obama asked.

"It will give our pilots and boots on the ground some reassurance." the general replied.

"I feel generous in giving ideas at the moment. How about IED sweeper bots to help clear the main Afghan roads and highways?" Vince added.

"I'm open to working with the government, but there are lines I can't cross." Vince declared.

The president and general were satisfied with Vince's ideas.

Price inserted himself in the conversation.

"A large portion of the Future Tech security operators are interested in taking contract deals to secure forward-operating bases or performing other missions. For the right price, of course." Price pitched.

He was in charge of Future Security and was within his rights to offer their services.

[It seems like the guys in the security department are itching for action. Guarding me or our buildings can get boring, I guess.] Vince thought.

General Douglas took note of the offer before negotiating the specifics of the DOD's partnership with Future Tech.

The initial deal was for $30 billion worth of upgrades to current drones and the new equipment.

The US government provided favorable tax agreements and allowed Future Tech to expand the current transcontinental and transatlantic fiber optic cables for their sole use.

[The fiber optic expansion deal is more than worth the Hive Mind manufacturing hours.] Vince thought happily.

Stats last time checked:

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$74.5 Billion in Future Tech

8350 employees (Future Studios, Hive Mind AI, ARM, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1)

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings

Ads by Pubfuture

Report chapter Comments

November 2012, Oval Office

"These initial terms are satisfactory for the Department of Defense. Accordingly, I'll be sending a military attache to Afghanistan to serve our partnership there at my behest." The stern General Douglas stated.

"We're currently expanding our military influence in the Balkh province."

"Price, Your team will be joining the 1014th Engineer Company in the Dihdadi district in securing a forward operating base. DOD will assign more missions based on your performance." the general added.

"This is my business card. You can notify me regarding the mission briefing when it's ready." Price replied.

"Alright. Now that our negotiations have concluded, you can leave us, Douglas." President Obama instructed.

The good general bade his farewells and left the oval office.

[I feel like the president will give me the talk.] Vince awkwardly thought.

"You're a young man, and I respect what you've achieved with Future Tech in the past two years. This war in Afghanistan is crucial in our efforts in the middle east."

"The US is spread thin between East Asia, the Middle East, and NATO defended territories."

"I would like to know your thoughts about this, as one of my highest tax-paying constituents," Obama stated.

"I'm only 14 years old, but I understand some of the intricacies of this issue. With your defense budget, the government can produce advanced weapons continuously, but I don't think any of that will lead to a US victory." Vince honestly stated.

"Why say that? Future Tech can potentially earn an absurd amount from military contracts, yet you're against developing weapons technology." Obama replied confusingly.

Price was listening in to their conversation with eagerness and curiosity.

"I don't want to detract from the military's efforts, but I'd like to propose a different strategy," Vince said as he started his pitch.

"I recommend providing locals an opportunity to learn and integrate into a capitalist society. Due to globalization, South Korea and Japan have flourished, and I feel like the Middle East and Africa share the same potential."

"American society is not perfect. Americans work their entire lives as slaves to the dollar, including Price, you, and I. Yet, Americans tolerate this lifestyle because of our privileges—freedom of choice, equality, a chance for a better life through education."

"Instead of buying more weapons, sending more soldiers, dropping more bombs; build schools, medical buildings, mosques, expand infrastructure. Keep the locals busy in forming fulfilling lives, away from radicalism." Vince added.

The president and Price had a look of disbelief.

[Young people are much more optimistic than us oldies.] The president thought.

"I feel your sentiment, Vince, but a project like this will be prohibitively expensive," Obama replied.

"Have you heard of the Future Tech campus in Austin?" Vince asked.

"Future Tech built that entire complex in under a year. Building structures and products are our specialties. This massive undertaking is not possible at our current scale, but I'll take the project seriously if the US government can supply raw materials." Vince proposed.

[Hive Mind drones are easy to produce but require difficult materials to acquire in large quantities.] Vince thought.

"You want to build a tech city in Afghanistan?" Obama asked.

"The rough idea is to build infrastructure and employ teachers, engineers, anyone who is willing to work for fair pay. We'll provide education and technical training, awarding careers in local companies or even Future Tech if they're talented." Vince replied.

"We can start small and expand the budget after reviewing our impact in local Afghan society," Vince added.

Obama went silent and thought about the proposal for a few minutes.

"I'll speak to Leon Panetta, the secretary of defense. So we'll be contacting you soon about your proposal. Thank you for meeting with Douglas and me." Obama said sincerely.

"Thank you for having us and asking for my input. Until next time." Vince said before shaking the president's hand.

Price did the same before both left the oval office.

Vince and Price reunited with the other security operators and were escorted to the private hangar by the secret service.

"Do you really think a war could be won by building instead of destroying? Price asked.

"Yes, I do," Vince replied plainly.

[20/20 hindsight. The US will lose the war in 2021, no matter how much money the US government spends to win it.] Vince thought.

The group boarded the Dreamliner jet and enjoyed the luxurious amenities while flying to New York City.

Vince received a call from Aiya on his AIM mobile phone, connected to the jet's private satellite network.

"You'll be attending a meeting at the Time Magazine headquarters in New York tomorrow. I've already prepared your stay at the Ritz-Carlton." Aiya said over the phone.

"Please update Hudson and David regarding our new partnership with DOD. I'll send you the report shortly." Vince replied.

"Gladly," Aiya replied before ending the call.

The private jet landed while the usual rented Black SUVs awaited.

Price stayed at the Ritz-Carlton to prepare for the Future Security mission in Deh Dadi while Vince freshened up and headed to Wall Street.

Vince and a security operator took an SUV and visited Future Tech Investments at their Wall Street office.

This investment firm has been around ever since Vince instructed Ralph to purchase stock from major corporations like Amazon, though Vince had never visited before. Close to one hundred traders could be seen around computers and an uncountable number of screens everywhere.

A caucasian man in his 30's with blonde hair, wearing a business suit, welcomed Vince into the office.

"It's nice to meet you, Vince Dalton, finally. My name is Richard Hanks, and I oversee your investments in the Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange. I've known Ralph since our Harvard years," Richard said.

"I feel the same, Richard. I just wanted to stop by and see how the investment department is doing." Vince replied.

[The business had done well investing in highly profitable markets like consumer goods, oil and gas, sea and air transportation, and other emerging technologies. These investments will be crucial in Future Tech's growth.] Vince thought.

"How are our finances doing?" Vince asked.

"With the use of a quarter of Future Tech's liquid assets in the past year, we've accumulated stock worth $30 billion across all our portfolios and $10 billion in cash," Richard replied proudly.

[Future Tech's cash flow has been evolving as our new core businesses eclipse BitCash and Future Studios' revenue. Selling AIM devices and technology contracts is the latest and more enormous cash cow.] Vince thought.

"Focus on telecommunications companies for now until I say otherwise. Preferably controlling stake or buy the entire thing, I'll give you my direct contact to request for more funds if required." Vince declared.

"Are there any notable recent acquisitions?" Vince asked.

"We trade primarily in shares and stocks of top SP 500 companies, but there was one that was quite expensive. Ralph thought you'd want to own a social platform, so we bought Instagram for $1.2 Billion." Richard replied.

[Instagram, huh? That's a steal for $1.2 billion!] Vince thought excitedly.

Stats last time checked:

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$74.5 Billion in Future Tech

8350 employees (Future Studios, Hive Mind AI, ARM, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1, Future Tech Investments)

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings

Report chapter Comments

Instagram was bought by Facebook in 2012 but is now owned by Future Tech in Vince's new life.

[We paid $200 million more than Facebook did, but it was worth it.] Vince thought

"Ralph assumed correctly. Social media is a multi-billion dollar industry. Would you please notify him in providing $5 billion to Instagram's budget from Future Tech, and to start promoting channels related to the Arena Pro League and War Online on the platform." Vince asked.

"Yes, of course, Vince," Richard replied.

"Thank you for your time. I'll be heading out." Vince said before leaving for his car.

He enjoyed the cosmopolitan scenery in Manhattan before spending some time in Central Park.

Vince called his mother while walking by the Bethesda Fountain.

"Hey, mom. How have you been since I left Austin?" Vince asked,

"I've been feeling stronger than ever. I have fully staffed our non-profit organization with the help of Hudson, freeing up some time for my hobbies." Leah replied.

"I'm glad to hear that, mom. What kind of hobbies have you been getting into? Vince asked curiously.

"Future Tech's new design division is terrific. I can mock-up designs on the company computers, and viola, a new dress appears. I've been enjoying my time working with Future Couture." Leah replied excitedly.

"Future Couture's sales have been great, especially the new winter collection. Our Austin branch is always full of people trying out the new designs." Leah added.

[I didn't know mom was that into dresses. Maybe she and Jessica would get along because of their passion for fashion.] Vince thought amusingly.

"During your free time from designing clothes, could you please prepare our NPO for new outreach programs I'll be funding. Mostly in Afghanistan." Vince asked.

"In Afghanistan? What have you gotten yourself into, young man?" Leah asked inquisitively with a harsh tone.

"I'm sorry, mom. I had no choice. The President and the Department of Defense wouldn't have taken no for an answer." Vince replied dejectedly.

[Vince is a good boy. I need to trust him with important decisions like this. He deserves that at least.] Leah thought as she calmed down.

"Alright, Vince. I'll do what you ask. Civilians suffer the most during a war." Leah replied.

"I know, mom. We'll be working on it." Vince replied reassuringly.

"Show me some of your designs when I get back to Austin. I'll see you soon." Vince said before his mother told her farewells.

He looked around and watched the beautiful Central Park landscape.

[I'll give everyone a chance to experience scenery like this even if I had to build a forest in the desert.] Vince thought with determination.

Vince called Elon after his conversation with Leah.

"Vince, are you calling about your satellites? We've already sent five of the ten you ordered in low earth orbit. But, unfortunately, SpaceX can't go any faster." Elon said, quickly defending himself.

"I understand, even though all of them should be up there by now. Delays happen. I'm calling about something else." Vince replied.

"Okay, you should have started with that then," Elon replied

[You didn't even let me..Ugh] Vince thought

"I remember you talking on an on about colonizing Mars. I propose a partnership in developing self-sustaining housing modules that we would eventually build on Mars for researchers and colonizers." Vince stated.

"This could lead to valuable data for a very crucial aspect for our efforts in colonizing other planets. I'm in. Where do you want to do the testing? Nevada or Arizona?" Elon asked excitedly.

"Afghanistan," Vince replied plainly.

"Hmm. That country's climate and the weather do fit our criteria. I'll accept. SpaceX and Future Tech can make it work, I'm confident." Elon stated.

"I'm glad you are. Send Future Tech the necessary personnel, and I'll take care of the rest, at no cost to you." Vince replied.

"If that's all, I'm out. See you around, Vince." Elon stated.

"Likewise, Elon. Thanks for considering my proposal." Vince replied before pocketing his phone.

He left the park after spending a few hours walking around with his security before deciding to go.

Vince arrived at Time Magazine's headquarters half an hour later.

Most of the employees at Time Magazine knew that an interview would be conducted today with an important guest. It was the main article for the December 2012 issue featuring the person of the year, Vince Dalton.

Vince was guided into a private room where cameras were set up.

"Thank you for sparing time for our interview, Mr. Dalton. I'll only need to ask a few questions as most of the content will be written about your business and tech campus by our correspondents in Austin." the interviewer stated.

"That's fine. I'm ready whenever you are." Vince said amicably.

"You've been named 'Person of the Year' by Time Magazine due to your company's contributions to the electronics and finance sectors. Yet, not much is known publicly of Future Tech's work due to being a private company."

"How did Future Tech evolve from a simple software development company into a tech giant competing with Apple and Microsoft?" the interviewer asked.

"Software is an integral part of my company's success. Our staff requires sophisticated software to utilize AI in various applications. Brilliant engineers helm the development of the Future Tech AI, and this product is our core business. The refinement of our manufacturing processes and advancements in material science are just byproducts." Vince said proudly.

"Future Tech has invested heavily in the entertainment industry. Plenty of your early successes are tied to War Online and the Arena Pro League. How important is this business sector to Future Tech?" the interviewer asked.

"I hold entertainment in high regard—platforms like film, music, video games, and competition connects our society and promotes a communal outlook. Our products bring communities together. That is my philosophy in business." Vince replied.

"Whispers regarding Future Tech's involvement in the war in Afghanistan is being spoken around the news industry. In addition, reports show that you visited President Obama yesterday. Of course, war is a controversial issue, but I'd like to ask in what capacity your company will assist in the conflict." the interviewer asked.

"Future Tech and Future Security will ensure the safety of our brothers and sisters fighting in Afghanistan through drone reconnaissance and cyberwarfare. In addition, however, I offered the president a peacekeeping and rebuilding project for the benefit of Afghan locals." Vince replied.

"From mobile apps to satellites, what more could be next for Future Tech?" the interviewer asked.

"There will always be something next, but I can tease a new project in development for your magazine: smart devices and the Internet of Things," Vince replied.

"Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Dalton. I reckon we'll be doing more interviews in the future." the interviewer stated.

"Until next time," Vince replied.

[This war thing could be a problem. People can't just blame me for being involved. Countless other corporations contribute to the war efforts.] Vince thought

Price met Vince at the Ritz-Carlton's restaurant for dinner.

"Vince, Future Security will require additional funds to purchase enough land outside Austin for a training base. I'll need to prepare our men before this mission starts." Price stated.

"That's fine. I foresee Future Tech being involved more and more in the war." Vince replied.

[We need to be. Or else, the same thing will happen like in 2021.] Vince thought.

"I'll need to find suitable ground around Austin as soon as possible. The mission will start in February." Price added.

"You can ask David for help with that. You'll need to order Hive Mind security suites for Future Security's use. Future Tech will provide your operators all of the assistance we'll give to DOD but at a smaller scale, of course. That means you'll get autonomous IED bot sweepers, radio satellite equipment, and autonomous air recon support." Vince replied.

"Price, I'll give you $10 billion initially to grow Future Security into a formidable fighting and peacekeeping force capable of winning this war.

[General Douglas will only be paying Future Security $500 million to secure the entire Dehdadi province, though a $5 billion contract for securing Kandahar was on the table based on their performance.]

[$2.3 trillion was the total cost of the war in Afghanistan. However, money couldn't win the war.] Vince pondered.

"$10 billion is more than enough to start with, Vince. You're feeling generous today. What gives?" Price asked inquisitively.

"The entire Middle East is at risk of falling into dictators' hands. As a result, politics in the region will fracture sooner rather than later, especially in Syria." Vince replied solemnly.

[ISIS did the war effort no favors. Countless civilians dead for no good reason.] Vince thought sadly.

"You've been doing your geopolitics homework recently? Lighten up, kid. My men are competent and reliable. So you don't have to worry." Price replied reassuringly.

David called Vince as they were flying back to Austin.

"General Douglas seemed eager to finalize the deal," David stated.

"What did General Douglas order from the menu?" Vince jokingly asked.

"Autonomous upgrades for 20,000 existing reconnaissance drones, 1,000 IED sweeper bots, 10,000 Hive Mind security drones, and development of an intuitive military control system for the officers to use. Upkeep and maintenance of all Future Tech assets will be our responsibility." David stated.

"And how much was the general's bill? Vince asked.

"$50 billion for the first year. More contracts are on the table based on our products' impact in the war." David replied.

[War is indeed profitable.] Vince thought.

Stats last time checked:

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$100 Billion in Future Tech

8350 employees (Future Studios, Hive Mind AI, ARM, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1, Future Tech Investments)

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings

Report chapter Comments

December 2012, at the Future Tech penthouse.

It was a week after Vince met with the president. He was busy working with Jessica and the API development team in creating a military control and monitoring system, easy enough to be used in the field.

Price was busy preparing Future Security, setting up the training ground and barracks outside Austin.

Price had recruited 3,000 operators after US military veterans heard the news of Future Security's direct involvement in combat areas in Afghanistan. Future Security was currently 5,000 strong. 2,000 as a reserve force and headquarters security while FS would send 3,000 overseas.

[These operators are not your run-of-the-mill soldiers. All of them left cozy posts to join Future Security instead of guarding rich kids like me.] Vince thought.

Vince was disturbed from his work by a phone ringing.

"Hudson, how's the weather in Afghanistan?" Vince jokingly asked.

"It's dry. Very dry. I'd rather not be here, but you're the boss." Hudson replied.

"How is our technical school doing?" Vince asked.

"We were able to purchase a large building in downtown Kandahar with the help of the US government. I've recruited every local with enough competence to work and learn for decent pay." Hudson replied.

"The people we train will become essential personnel for Future Tech eventually. Maintenance and field support for our products is our top priority, but do treat them with care." Vince instructed.

[Even without the governments' support yet, I'll start providing an alternative life to people who want it.] Vince thought.

"There's no need to rush their training. We need competence, not numbers. The defense contract duration is one year. So you'll have enough time." Vince added.

"The school will require Future Tech engineers. But, unfortunately, we only have a few Arabic speakers that can teach here." Hudson stated.

"Future Tech employees who are willing to teach at Kandahar will do it in rotations like the FS operators and with bonus pay. Moreover, language won't be an issue with our new smart device feature, real-time language translations."

"Students will only need a pair of earphones, and every word of the instructor will be translated and played in their ears," Vince replied.

"That's convenient. I should be able to work this out now that language isn't a problem. I'll contact you if I need anything." Hudson said before saying farewell.

Formula 1 teams are famous for their aerodynamic expertise, and Vince decided to use it to his advantage.

Vince called Kevin Lawson, a British man who directs the Future Tech F1 team.

"How is the deep VR racing simulator project with Ms. Miller doing?"

"It's early days, but progress is steady, though our new AIM-powered traditional racing simulators are far and above those of our competitors," Kevin replied.

"Does the team have a second driver already?" Vince asked.

"We've decided to keep Nico Hulkenberg for next season alongside Randall Stevens," Kevin replied.

"How is the development of the new 2013 car?" Vince asked.

"Most of the aerodynamic package has already been developed with the help from Future Tech and our previous experiences. So there won't be any issues fielding two cars in April of next year." Kevin replied.

"Good, because your team will be busy with a new project. Though bonuses and promotions are on the table." Vince stated.

"What do you need us to do before the 2013 season starts?" Kevin asked curiously.

"You'll be designing planes. Specifically, long-range/high-altitude surveillance planes that I'll sell to the military and transport planes like the Globemaster. In addition, you'll work with SpaceX for the radio satellite functionality and Koenigsegg for the engines. No weapons for now." Vince instructed plainly.

The British racing man was stunned to hear about his new project.

"You're the boss, Vince," Kevin replied over the phone before Vince ended the call.

[I would have never imagined designing vehicles for military use.] Kevin thought.

As soon as Vince arrived from New York, Future Tech recruited local gun machinists for his new venture, Future Arms. As a result, machinists and designers from everywhere in Texas flocked to Austin for an opportunity to produce small arms that operators will actually use in live combat.

[Future Tech had been modifying weapons since Future Security was formed but hadn't designed one from scratch yet.] Vince thought.

Vince decided to buy Alliant Techsystems, the largest small arms and ammunition manufacturer in the United States. David negotiated the deal at $10 billion, which was more than fair.

The headquarters in Arlington will serve as the Future Arms and Future Security branch headquarters close to DC.

The robotics division was busy designing and producing the IED sweeper bots, while Patel and the AI division upgraded the thousands of existing military drones.

[This is the perfect time to produce new products as consumer sales always dip at the start of the year. We'll ramp up AIM device manufacturing again after designing the smart devices and IoT gadgets.] Vince thought

The Arena Pro League Season 2 finals will be held in mid-December in South Korea, at the Daegu Stadium.

Continuous updates to the game have retained people's attention on War Online, and the broadcast ratings are still growing.

Though Vince was exceptionally busy, he still decided to attend the event as an avid esports fan.

[The Arena Pro League Finals won't be the same without me.] Vince thought conceitedly.

Vince called his friends to ask if they wanted to come and enjoy the City of Seoul with him.

"Jessica, Are you free to join me at the APL Finals in South Korea in a week?" Vince asked.

"I can't, Vince. The API division is busy developing the military control unit for the new defense contract you signed a few weeks ago." Jessica replied grumpily.

"I understand. Don't overwork yourself. I promise to treat you to a vacation or something nice when you're finished." Vince replied.

"Alright, alright. I'll be working now. Talk to you later." Jessica said before ending the call.

[Feels bad, man.] Vince thought.

He then called Kyle to ask the same thing.

"Kyle, do you want to watch the APL finals in South Korea? I'll be going in a week?" Vince asked.

"I'd love to watch it live at the Daegu Stadium, but I'm busy working with Future Tech F1 and Future Tech VR, developing deep-sleep simulations. This project is far more interesting than watching the APL. Sorry, bro." Kyle replied.

"Okay. Thanks for your hard work. You'll be the first to play the deep-dive VR MMORPG when it eventually comes out." Vince stated.

"Cool. See you, Vince." Kyle replied before ending the call.

Vince then called Rick and Sarah for the same purpose.

"Sarah, will you and your brother go with me to South Korea to watch the APL Finals?" Vince asked.

"We're busy designing the user interface for the military control unit. So our free time will only be during Christmas week." Sarah replied.

[I deserve this for signing that defense contract without much preparation.] Vince thought dejectedly.

"Alright. It's good to see you twins are busying yourselves instead of raiding bosses at the LAN center." Vince replied jokingly.

"We'd have killed the final boss of the expansion already if it weren't for this sudden new project," Sarah complained in reply before ending the call.

[None of my friends want to join me. I thought I was the only one addicted to work.] Vince thought sadly.

Vince called his mom to ask the same question.

"Hey, mom, will you be busy next week? I'll be attending the APL Finals in South Korea. Would you please accompany me?" Vince asked.

"Of course, I'll go with you! I've always wanted to visit Seoul and shop for dresses in the Gangnam District! We should open a Future Couture store there too!" Leah excitedly replied.

"I'm glad to have at least one person willing to join me in South Korea. How are the outreach programs doing?" Vince asked.

"All the programs have been finalized and are already being executed in Kandahar. So I have plenty of free time!" Leah replied merrily.

Vince continued working with Future Arms and Future Security to prepare them for their mission in February next year. Ralph projected that the defense contract and assignment at Dehdadi will cost $20 billion in the first year.

Ralph walked into Vince's penthouse office to talk about Future Tech's finances.

"Good to see you, Ralph. What's up?" Vince asked while he closed his laptop.

"Defense contracts is stable income, but you've been spending too much money on Future Arms and Future Security. As a result, our consumer electronics division won't have enough capacity to sell our most profitable products." Ralph replied.

"I'll stop expanding our security division until we receive our next sizeable military contract. Happy?" Vince replied, exasperated.

"Thank you. Our total annual expenses will be close to $50 billion next year; please keep that in mind." Ralph added.

[All the technologies and companies I've bought will pay dividends. I'm confident.] Vince thought before going back to work.

Stats last time checked:

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$90 Billion in Future Tech

8350 employees (Future Studios, Hive Mind AI, ARM, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1, Future Tech Investments)

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings

Report chapter Comments

Mid-December 2012,

Vince and Leah were preparing for their trip to Seoul at the headquarters penthouse.

The security system alerted Vince regarding a visitor.

A muscular and lean caucasian man in his 30's wearing a combat uniform themed in blue and black entered his office.

"Vince, I'd like to talk to you about something before you leave." Price stated.

"Is there something wrong with Future Security?" Vince asked.

"The men's training is going well. Most of them have practiced utilizing Future Tech products like the new IED sweeper bots and recon drones." Price stated.

"Our military operations is a sensitive subject. Future Tech's current cyber warfare defense system I developed with Patel is top-notch. However, I'd still like to use the remaining $5 billion in Future Security's budget in forming a separate cybersecurity division within Future Security to develop defense and breach protocols; continuously." Price added.

"I'm on board with your idea, Price. I approve of your use of the remaining budget. A cybersecurity division will make it so we won't have to rely on the CIA or the NSA to protect our military secrets." Vince said approvingly.

"Great! I already have a few military contacts from my SOCOM days ready to be recruited. We'll work with Jessica and the API team to integrate our new cyber warfare protocols within Future Tech when it's ready." Price replied excitedly.

[Price's idea is fantastic! I can already imagine an army of netrunners defending the Bitcash network from corporate espionage! Indeed, we can't rely on AI defensive mechanisms forever.] Vince thought.

Leah arrived at the penthouse living room wearing a red-themed Future Couture dress. Her ashen hair and caucasian figure were magnified by an exquisite shawl made of the same advanced fiber.

"I'm ready to leave, Vince. How about you?" Leah asked.

"Price just left. I should be ready in a few minutes." Vince replied.

A security detail of five operators would accompany Leah and Vince during their travels.

Each operator was equipped with the new military personnel security drone, recently developed by Future Tech AI and the robotics division.

[These new security drones are much larger and more intimidating than the ones used at the headquarters. It kind of looks similar to the Militech Griffin drones in Cyberpunk 2077.] Vince thought.

"Hey, Felix. I've been busy with the military control systems these past two weeks. Could you please tell me about your new pet drones?" Vince asked one of the operators assigned to guarding their CEO.

"It's called the Future Tech Dragonfly. The drone features physical and cyber threat protocols and can scan a wide area of a 100-meter radius." Felix replied.

"These five drones are different from the regular Dragonfly, though, because of the added integrated machine gun that shoots armor-piercing ammunition, Sir," Felix added.

"They look rather heavy. How long can it stay hovering around and patrolling?" Vince asked.

"The new two-stroke hybrid engine from Koenigsegg used in all the Dragonfly drones can patrol for 12 hours straight before having to go back to base for refueling. In addition, the material science division is currently developing new fuel mixtures to optimize fuel efficiency, Sir," Felix replied.

[These guys are highly trained. Even Felix knows the ins and outs of this new drone.] Vince thought.

"What's this new combat uniform you guys are wearing?" Vince asked.

"Director Price issued Future Couture designed uniforms with the prototype plate armor woven into the fabric. It's lighter and stronger than any other body armor system in the market." Felix replied.

[Price had been very busy these past two weeks.] Vince thought.

"I assume your team is prepared to protect my mother and me in Seoul?" Vince asked.

"Director Price only sends the best for your protection, Sir," Felix replied like a soldier.

Their entourage headed to the private hangar and boarded the heavily modified 787 Dreamliner. Kevin from Future Tech F1 recently upgraded its system to meet the new military standards.

The seventeen hours of flight was a pleasant wait. Leah, Felix, and the other operators enjoyed the luxurious amenities they'd never tried before in flight.

"Flying like this is the best. Compared to the cold seats on the Boeing Globemasters we slept on, this feels like heaven." Felix stated.

"Were you a paratrooper, Felix?" Vince asked curiously.

"82nd Airborne Division, Sir. 'Death from Above,'" Felix said as he saluted proudly.

"Wow! It takes a lot of skill and cajones to jump off a moving plane into live combat." Vince replied in surprise.

"We train for months before our mission starts, and we don't usually drop in hot areas. Our landing zone is usually miles away from the action." Felix replied.

"What if your forces on the ground were in dire need of reinforcements? You'd have to run for miles before making a difference." Vince asked.

"Parachuting into direct anti-air suppression fire is a death sentence for the troopers and the pilots. So we were limited in that respect." Felix replied, embarrassed.

[Future Tech could develop a troop landing module using the Falcon 9 VTOL landing system and sell it to the airborne divisions. It will have to be more reliable, though.] Vince thought.

They landed at the Incheon Internation Airport before the Dreamliner taxied into a private hangar.

Delegates from the ROK government were waiting to welcome Vince Dalton and his entourage.

Intelligence officers notified President Lee Myung-bak of Vince's visit to South Korea for the Arena Pro League Season 2 Finals. He immediately readied delegates to represent the ROK and welcome the young CEO.

[As the youngest CEO in South Korea, I can smell a business opportunity.] President Lee thought.

The playoffs were already underway. The defending champions, Prime Alliance, are expected to take the top spot in Group A, while Clear Sky was dominating Group B.

Devices of every variety were playing their local Arena Pro League broadcast worldwide.

A television screen in a Seoul coffee shop showed images of the Korean professional players from Clear Sky while a commentator was talking.

"Clear Sky has brought their peak form here in the APL Season 2 playoffs. Charlatan is playing better than ever, while their team cohesion has reached a new level." a female broadcaster said in Korean.

"The close loss at the Season 1 Finals really lit a fire under these players to perform at such a high level." a male broadcaster replied.

"The Russian players from Team Blizzard have been doing well in Group A and could potentially knock out Prime Alliance." the female broadcaster added.

"Group A is up in the air for now. And, multiple teams in that group could potentially advance to the finals. Team Predator from the Philippines and Samurai from Japan, are two notable teams who played well during the season." the male broadcaster replied.

"Don't forget to tune in this Sunday for the Grand Finals! Thank you for watching Korean Daily Esports! Follow our Instagram account for more news." the female broadcaster said to end the show.

Vince's entourage and the ROK delegates arrived at the Signiel Seoul to settle down for the day. Leah was excited to try out the five-star amenities before going shopping at Gangnam.

A middle-aged man surrounded by bodyguards arrived at the hotel. He looked more like a businessman than a politician.

Regular hotel clientele quickly realized that the President of the Republic of Korea was walking through the lobby.

A delegate notified Vince of the President's arrival and gave him time to prepare for the unexcepted meeting.

Vince met with President Lee at one of the hotels' meetings rooms.

"My name is Vince Dalton. Good to meet you, Mr. President. Funny enough, you're the second president I've met this month." Vince said as he shook Lee's hand.

[I remember this guy from international news coverage. He was involved in bribery, embezzlement, tax evasion, and abuse of power during his presidency. He was good enough to evade the law for a few years but was eventually convicted.] Vince thought chidingly.

"I'm glad of your visit to our beautiful South Korea. From entertainment to industry, we can provide." Lee said amicably.

"Your Future Tech products have been quite popular here in South Korea. Corporations like Samsung have not been happy this past year, though our government is still open to doing business with you." Lee added.

[Even though this guy is crooked. He's still the CEO of Hyundai Engineering and Construction. I should be on guard, but it doesn't hurt to hear him out.] Vince thought.

"As a man of technology, I assume you know how advanced our telecommunications technology is currently. Your Future Tech has been buying out telecommunications companies worldwide and has been successful so far. But building more infrastructure will be demanding from your side of the world." Lee said.

"I propose Future Tech partner with Hyundai Engineering and Construction to upgrade and expand communications towers in East Asia. We carry influence across the Asian continent. Of course, the Korean government can expedite the sale of our local telecommunications companies to Future Tech as a little bonus." President Lee proposed with a smile.

[As long as I can gain access to Future Tech's data, stealing and selling technologies will be more profitable than this deal.] Mr. Lee thought nefariously.

[Future Tech does need help in expanding cellular tower coverage in Asia, but I know precisely why this smug bastard is offering me such a favorable deal. Something underhanded will be going on with those 'upgrades' and 'expansions'. I'll play along, but don't feel so sorry later.] Vince thought.

"We're both businessmen, Mr. President. Let's talk numbers. I estimate our current projected total cost of expanding our East Asia coverage is $20 billion for two years. What's your offer?" Vince asked.

"So expensive! We can do it for half the cost, with the support of the ROK government. What do you say?" Mr. Lee asked.

"I appreciate your sincerity, Mr. President. The deal is as good as closed. I'll provide you with my lawyer's contact information after our conversation." Vince replied with a fake smile.

They conversed in some small talk before ending the meeting.

[Future Security's cybersecurity division will soon have its first mission.] Vince thought.

Stats last time checked:

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$85 Billion in Future Tech

8350 employees (Future Studios, Hive Mind AI, ARM, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1, Future Tech Investments, Future Arms)

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

Vince arrived at his hotel suite and waited for the Dragonfly drones to sweep the area for listening devices and other privacy threats.

Leah was getting ready to leave and go shopping as she saw Vince enter his room.

"Vince, I heard you met with the South Korean president while I was swimming downstairs. How was it?" Leah asked curiously.

"He treated me well and with respect, mom. He also offered me a value deal in expanding our East Asia coverage." Vince replied.

"That's good to hear, son. You've been busy with work while on vacation. You should relax a bit." Leah suggested.

"I can't relax for now. The deal with Mr. Lee smells fishy. It's too good to be true." Vince replied.

"Kids like you shouldn't need to be dealing with politicians and the stresses they bring," Leah said sadly.

"My vision for Future Tech is expanding; I need to practice in dealing with these types of people," Vince replied.

[Mr. Lee could have easily deceived me if it weren't for my old memories of the future.] Vince pondered.

The Dragonfly drones confirmed Vince's privacy within the hotel suite.

Vince decided to call David and Price.

"Hey David, Are you awake?" Vince asked.

"It's the middle of the night, Vince. What do you need?" David replied.

"Representatives from Hyundai Engineering and Construction will contact you soon regarding a deal I've struck with President Lee. Unfortunately, something isn't right with this deal, but we'll play along for now." Vince instructed.

"Understood, Boss. Can I go back to sleep now?" David replied.

"Go ahead. Thanks, David." Vince replied.

Vince then called Price regarding the counter-intelligence mission.

"Price, did I catch you at the wrong time?" Vince asked.

"I'm just working overnight. What's going on?" David replied.

"David will be finalizing a deal with the South Korean president soon. The agreement itself is too good to be true, so I'll need cyberspies from Future Security to monitor our dealings with Hyundai EC. "

"I suspect they want to steal Future Tech intelligence and technologies using the telecommunication hubs we'll be upgrading," Vince instructed.

"I won't let that happen, Vince. We'll perform cyber intrusions in retaliation if they try anything suspicious." Price replied determinedly.

"Take what you can get before your people get caught. I wouldn't say I like snooping into other people's business, but actions against Future Tech or me will have dire consequences." Vince stated.

[It puts me at ease knowing that cyber security is Price's forte.] Vince thought.

Vince and Leah decided to roam around Gangnam to spend some time with each other.

It was a beautiful but snowy day in Seoul. Naturally, though, the cold didn't bother them much under Future Couture clothing.

"Look over there—an entourage with flying security drones; that should be Vince Dalton. He's in South Korea to attend the APL Finals." A Korean passerby said to his companion.

"You're right! He looks so dreamy even as a young man." the Korean girl companion replied.

"You wish! How are you going to compete with that hot lady he's following around." her companion declared.

Felix started carrying shopping bags while Vince and Leah explored the commercial district. Leah was more focused on the area than shopping itself.

"Oh, that one! Vince, I want our Future Couture South Korea branch to set up there." Leah declared.

She pointed at a store in the middle of the busiest area in the commercial district.

"That's going to be expensive, but anything for you, mom!" Vince acquiesced.

[Future Tech will likely need a South Korea branch, too, with the new business partnership with Hyundai EC around the corner.] Vince pondered.

The group went around the commercial district for a few hours before heading back to the hotel. Vince had time to work on the new agreement with David and Ralph from the hotel suite.

Felix deployed a mobile telecommunication hub within the room to provide secure network access.

The hub itself was the size of a full-tower desktop computer and was connected to a small satellite dish receiver posted outside the window.

"Felix, is this the new military communication system we'll be selling to DOD?" Vince asked.

"Yes. It's called a Data Access Node, or just the Node. Price started developing the Node when Future Security began. I still remember because I was one of the first men you hired back then." Felix replied.

"I recall our meeting at Tom's gym. I was so paranoid from the failed assassination attempt." Vince stated embarrassingly.

"We heard about what happened. You defended yourself like a true warrior. And you're alive because of this warrior's will." Felix stated reassuringly.

"I got lucky, but I do agree. Thanks, Felix." Vince replied.

Vince found his AIM laptop before connecting to the Node and started working.

[Future Tech is expanding rapidly across foreign nations now. Corporate security wasn't much of a problem as most of our business was in Austin. I'll have to restructure the company again to protect our billions of dollars worth of assets overseas.] Vince pondered.

Vince busied himself outlining the new corporate structure Future Tech will be complying with soon.

An executive director will lead central departments in Future Tech like Future Security, Arms, Studio, AI, VR, Holdings, Investments, and the Hive Mind. In addition, they'll be responsible for their detachments in overseas foreign branches.

Executive Directors can appoint a limited amount of operations managers to oversee sub-divisions within their departments.

These operations managers would assign project or mission managers to monitor the performance of lower-level employees.

Each Future Tech member can slowly climb the corporate ladder to access more advanced tech, resources, training, and privileges.

If an employee trains enough, there will also be opportunities to transfer from departments or divisions as a promotion.

[This outline should be a decent starting point for Hudson to polish.] Vince thought before sending the text document to Hudson via the secure Node.

There were still a few days before Leah and Vince had to fly to Daegu for the Finals. Vince enjoyed the city during the day while working at night.

It was the middle of the night in South Korea. Vince joined in the daily executive video conference meeting hosted in Austin.

David was the first one to start discussing business.

"It's already so late there, Vince. You don't have to attend this meeting." David said.

"I want to be here. Future Tech has a lot on its plate right now, and I need to stay on top of things." Vince replied

"Alright. A representative from Hyundai CE contacted me earlier this morning to finalize the two-year contract. It seems like you low-balled our initial estimated expansion cost from $40 billion to $20 billion." David stated.

"I wanted to test Mr. Lee's sincerity. He failed, unfortunately." Vince replied.

"Your little test ended up saving us $30 billion because they settled for only $10 billion to seal the deal." David declared.

"I told you it was too good to be true. We'll capitalize on this lucky windfall, though." Vince replied.

Patel followed up after David in explaining the status of Future Tech AI and the Hive Mind.

"The AI department is heavily focused on contributing to our military contracts, though a quarter of the team is working with Morgan and the AIM department in developing our new products for 2013," Patel stated.

"I've set up the Hive Mind department the same way, primarily focusing on manufacturing defense contract orders from DOD," Patel added.

"Patel, You've done excellent work with our AI and its applications. Unfortunately, leading both the AI department and Hive Mind manufacturing is too much of a burden for one person. I give you the freedom to nominate an executive director for Hive Mind Manufacturing." Vince instructed.

"It's an honor, Vince. I want to nominate Andreas, the tech campus overseer, to be our newest executive director. He's been working for me since before Future Tech bought my small AI company, and I feel like he deserves the promotion." Patel replied.

"I've met Andreas, and he seems like a good fit to be a Future Tech executive," Vince replied in agreement.

Ralph decided to chip in the conversation to discuss finances.

"It's been a highly profitable last quarter in 2012, though our total expenses exceeded our initial estimates but were still acceptable, at around $60 billion."

"Gross profit from AIM consumer electronics, Bitcash transactions, War Online microtransactions, Hive Mind manufacturing rentals, and military contracts came out around $150 billion, which leaves $90 billion as liquid cash," Ralph stated.

Richard joined in the discussion about finances and updated Vince regarding Future Investment's portfolio.

"Our portfolio hadn't changed much since your visit at our Wall Street offices. The total value of the portfolio is $30 billion, and we still have $10 billion in cash for further investments." Richard stated.

"Ralph, Richard, How much do guys think the entire Future Tech is currently worth, including all our businesses and assets?" Vince asked.

"At least $300 billion," Richard replied.

"It's a low and rough estimate, but that seems about right. We'll be performing a finance review in January for a more accurate valuation." Ralph added.

[Damn. Future Tech is about to hit critical mass. It'll be in a too big to fail situation soon. On the other hand, though, I would never want to be in a position needing to be bailed out by the government.] Vince thought.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$90 Billion cash in Future Tech

8350 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, ARM, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms)

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

The executive directors were taking turns in updating their young CEO regarding their businesses. A British man in his 40's was keeping silent while others talked in the video conference meeting.

[I feel so out of place joining in such an important corporate meeting.] Kevin Lawson thought apprehensively.

"Kevin, You haven't talked since we started the meeting. So how is the Future Tech F1 team doing? Is your department on track to fulfill the assignment I gave you?" Vince asked curiously.

"I'm sorry, Vince. I'm just not used to attending meetings with such influential people. I'm just a racing team director." Kevin replied.

"If you feel like your position is too demanding, we can replace you, but you don't have to be a racing director forever. Show Future Tech your skills and talents, and we'll assign an appropriate position." Vince replied reassuringly.

"I've never been paid as much as I earn now. So it's only natural I'll have more responsibilities. Future Tech F1 has assigned all the engineers to develop the recon drones besides those collaborating with Future Tech VR. The designs should be ready for manufacturing in two months." Kevin replied confidently.

"That's good to hear. We'll need to equip Price and Future Security with our new military tech to ensure their safety." Vince replied.

"Which reminds me. Where's Price?" Vince asked.

"Price told me he'd be busy installing new security equipment at the headquarters, tech campus, FS training facility, and our other buildings within the United States," Hudson replied.

[It seems like Future Security's cyber division is already upgrading Future Tech's defensive systems. I'll have to give Price a bonus for all his busy work.] Vince thought.

"How has the company restructuring been going?" Vince asked.

"Your outline was detailed enough for me to start implementing this new organizational structure. I can already tell this new method will help us cope with further expansions in the future, especially abroad." Hudson replied.

"Executive and management positions will enjoy Future Security's protection to avoid corporate espionage," Hudson added.

"Well done, Hudson. You've served me well since Kemp-Jacobs recommended you as my staff manager. I'll promote you to Chief Operations Officer after the restructuring." Vince replied.

"AIM processor and device development will be its own department now. Assign Morgan as the executive director for Future Tech Micro Devices." Vince added.

Hudson was elated by the unexpected promotion and thanked Vince profusely before he ended the meeting.

Vince and his entourage flew on the Dreamliner to Daegu the next day.

Vince spent some time catching up on the Arena Pro League playoffs results by watching the 'Daily Esports' broadcast in the private jet.

"Prime Alliance barely won their bracket, though it was stacked with some of the best teams in the APL. They'll get a chance to defend their title tomorrow afternoon." a male daily esports broadcaster said.

"Clear Sky's performance is getting better. It seems like they want to avenge their defeat last year in front of their home crowd. It's exciting just thinking about it!" a female broadcaster replied.

"They'll have to put on a great show because the young CEO, Vince Dalton, will be gracing Daegu Stadium with his presence during the Grand Final." the female broadcaster added.

"There will be more than 60,000 people in attendance for the Finals, so you better get there early or risk getting swamped by the huge crowd." the male broadcaster stated.

[Sixty thousand spectators in one place could get dangerous, but Price is sending a detachment of 1,000 FS operators equipped with our new military technology to keep the peace.] Vince thought.

Future Security rented five C-17 Globemasters to transport all their personnel and equipment.

The detachment departed from Austin and landed at one of the US Airbases in South Korea, waiting to be deployed for the event.

"It will be a bitter fight between Clear Sky and Prime Alliance, but I think Fortis can out carry Charlatan like what happened earlier this year." the male broadcaster said.

"I disagree. Charlatan has been playing so well the past season. They've learned their mistakes and will win the Finals while their home crowd cheers." the female broadcaster rebuked.

"We'll see what happens tomorrow. The hype is growing, and I'm so excited to watch the event. Don't forget to watch the free broadcast on Instagram, YouTube, or any other platform. See you tomorrow!" the female broadcaster said as she ended the show.

A group of armored SUVs drove from Daegu's local airport to a hotel.

Leah spent some time appointing employees within the non-profit organization and Future Couture to new roles based on the corporate restructuring.

It was well within her authority to do so as an executive director herself.

Vince was working on his laptop in the living room and was so focused that he jumped in surprise when Leah grabbed his attention.

"Mom, You scared me for a second there. I was so engrossed in writing programs with Future Security's new cyber agents. What did you need?" Vince asked.

"As an executive director, I assume I can use my yearly budget however I want, right?" Leah asked curiously.

"Technically, Yes. But, I prefer you use it to expand the departments. Why do you ask?" Vince replied.

"I've been thinking of recruiting Dr. Sera and her medical team. I spent a significant amount of time with her team during my treatments, and I miss them." Leah replied.

"You don't have to use your budget for that. I'll be investing $10 billion in the medical field to support our mission in Afghanistan. You can start forming Future Med with Dr. Sera and her team." Vince stated.

"Thank you, Vince! You're the best son ever!" Leah exclaimed.

"Alright, Alright. Calm down. I need to get back to work, so if you don't mind." Vince replied.

"Okay. I'll go ahead and call Dr. Sera." Leah said before leaving the living room.

Vince and Leah arrived at the Daegu stadium the next day. They were welcomed together with Prime Alliance and Clear Sky riding in limousines following behind their armored SUVs.

Heavily armed Future Security operators could be found patrolling around the large stadium together with Dragonfly drones.

Anti-corporation protestors attempted to form outside the stadium but were quickly repelled by security.

Their group made its way to the VIP box with a clear sight of the main stage.

The pre-show was well received. K-POP groups and artists were invited to perform before the match, and the locals appreciated watching their favorite idols on stage.

FS operators entered the VIP box with President Lee and left quickly after.

"I didn't know you were a fan of War Online Arena, Mr. President," Vince said with a fake smile.

"Entertainment is a cornerstone industry here in South Korea. So how can I miss the most prominent event held here since the Olympics?" Mr. Lee declared.

Vince introduced Leah to Mr. Lee before conversing with him with some small talk.

"You're security team seems like a cut above the rest. I heard Future Security would be fighting in Afghanistan soon. Are you interested in securing the DMZ in the north? Our defense budget is quite large." Mr. Lee proposed.

"Thank you for the offer, but we'll only be involved in Afghanistan for now. I'm open for it in the future, though." Vince replied.

[If you last that long.] Vince thought chidingly.

"Ladies and gentlemen, the teams are ready. Please welcome the defending champions, Prime Alliance!" the announcer said on the microphone.

The cheers were as loud as it was in the Staples Center earlier in the year.

"Now, please welcome the contenders, South Korea's very own, Clear Sky!" the announcer added.

The stadium shook as all the local fans chanted and cheered for their home team.

Prime Alliance and Clear Sky entered their gaming booths and started their first War Online Arena match, best of seven.

"It looks like Fortis is going for a damage build instead of his iconic tank build. Is he trying to match up with Charlatan?" a match commentator stated.

The first game was back and forth as Fortis and Charlatan's characters slowly grew stronger from killing enemy creeps.

Charlatan was better than Fortis as a damage dealer, and team wiped Prime Alliance to win the grueling first game after 45 minutes.

Fortis stayed true to his offensive build and out carried Charlatan the second game to everyone's surprise.

"Fortis is such a great player. He can even change roles whenever he wants!" a commentator declared.

History was repeating itself as the Grand Final reached the seventh and final game to decide the season champions.

Charlatan turned into a gaming demon during the last game, trading blow for blow with Fortis.

Everybody else was dead and waiting to respawn except the two best players on each team.

"This fight will determine the champion!" the commentator shouted.

Charlatan received a heavy blow from Fortis' [Piercing Throw] and retreated to the high ground with his skills.

Fortis saw an opportunity to kill Charlatan and win the game. He used his only gap-closing skill [Leaping Thrust] to chase the low HP Charlatan in the fogged high ground.

Charlatan performed a masterful series of movements and skills, fighting Fortis instead of trying to escape.

Fortis quickly realized he had the disadvantage of fighting Charlatan head-on because he built his character for team fighting.

During the split second, when Fortis committed the grave mistake, Charlatan turned the fight around, stunning Fortis with his ultimate skill [Shadow Bind].

Fortis was killed before the stun effect wore off, and the crowd cheered even louder than earlier.

[South Korea is truly the mecca of esports.] Vince thought with a wide smile on his face.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$80 Billion cash in Future Tech

8350 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms)

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

The Arena Pro League committee invited Vince to present Clear Sky the Season 2 Championship trophy.

Vince was escorted to the main stage and gave the trophy to Charlatan after congratulating their team.

The crowd went wild in cheering after Charlatan raised the trophy above his head.

"Clear Sky! Clear Sky! Clear Sky!" the crowd chanted.

Vince walked up to a dejected Prime Alliance team outside their gaming booth in an attempt to console the loss.

"You did your best, guys. But, a new season is just around the corner, and you'll have your revenge like what Clear Sky did to avenge their close loss last season." Vince said to Prime Alliance.

"I messed up. Charlatan played me like a kid's toy, and I ended up losing us the match." Fortis said with some tears flowing down his eyes.

"Charlatan played an insane series, but you were able to match his damage role like you were a top offensive player in APL. You're the most flexible player in the league, and you should work on this with your team to win the next season." Vince said reassuringly.

"Thank you for the kind words, Mr. Dalton. We won't let you down!" Fortis declared after feeling a bit better.

"You can call me Vince. I'll be expecting your rivalry with Charlatan not to end here." Vince said before leaving.

[$10 million in prize money is nothing to scoff at, but Prime Alliance will make hundreds of millions as a franchise team from merchandise, advertisements, and the APL itself. Prize money is just a bonus.] Vince thought.

Mr. Lee met with Vince to bid his farewells before leaving the stadium.

Vince and Leah were escorted to the local airport in armored SUVs immediately after the event.

Vince decided to spend the night in the Dreamliner while flying back to Austin instead of extending their stay in South Korea until the next day.

It was almost Christmas time, and Vince had been too busy to buy Leah and his friends some gifts.

[The executives and managers will appreciate a Christmas bonus, but I don't know about the others.] Vince thought.

Vince knocked on the door of one of the private jet's rooms.

"Mom, Are you busy? I want to know what you want for Christmas. We were so busy last year that we didn't have the chance to celebrate." Vince asked.

"You can come in, Vince. I don't need anything and would love any gift you'd give me, I promise." Leah replied.

"Okay, I believe you, but how about Kyle, Jessica, Rick, and Sarah? What do you suggest I give them?" Vince asked

"Material things won't be a good idea. All of them are making plenty of money from Future Tech already. How about some time off and vacation for their families?" Leah replied.

"Mom, you're a genius! Thanks for the suggestion. I'll be leaving now." Vince said before returning to his room in the Dreamliner.

Vince ordered a new 787 Dreamliner that his friends and their families could use to travel worldwide on vacation. The new private jet would be made available to executive directors after the Christmas season.

[Boeing can't build the new jet in a few weeks. So I'll lend them this Dreamliner to use in the meantime.] Vince thought.

Their group landed in Austin before heading back to the headquarters.

Vince noticed hundreds of security personnel patrolling around the building and within the corridors.

It was mid-day, and Vince decided to check on Future Tech Robotics, a new department recently separated from the AI and Hive Mind departments.

Vince walked through the futuristic offices and found the newly appointed executive director of Robotics, Heidi.

She had flowing orange hair and caucasian features. Heidi had been working under Patel since the start of the Hive Mind project. Hudson's department review determined that Heidi McGuire was the best candidate for the new position.

She was in her 20's and had yet to reach her prime but was already a brilliant robotics engineer.

[She's an essential asset for the growth of the Robotics division.] Vince thought before entering Heidi's office.

"Good to see, Heidi. Congratulations on your promotion." Vince declared.

"Thank you, Vince. It's been a long time. Patel usually did the leg work in meeting with you regarding our projects. What can I do for you?" Heidi asked.

[I forgot how hot Heidi was. I've been missing out.] Vince thought pervertedly.

"I was just curious how the IED sweeper bot project was going," Vince asked.

"The department is already pursuing other projects. The sweeper bots were too easy to develop compared to the Dragonfly drones." Heidi replied proudly.

"I've been busy working with Price and Future Security the past few weeks. Could you please refresh my mind on what the robotics division is currently developing?" Vince asked, embarrassed.

"No issue, Vince. The division is focusing on research and development in nanomachines. The Hive Mind manufacturing process had become precise enough to fabricate computer embedded nanites at low costs." Heidi explained.

"What are the potential applications of nanites you've discovered?" Vince asked.

"The bioengineers working at the VR division have been testing nanite biochips as a control system for deep-sleep virtual reality, though the trials with rats have been failures," Heidi replied.

"Share your findings with Morgan. Future Tech Micro Devices might find something of use in your research."

"I see potential in this nanite project. Notify me if you find your 2013 budget lacking." Vince said before taking his leave.

[Future Med may be able to get the nanites working. But, unfortunately, the VR division is too small to make a breakthrough with something as advanced as nanites.] Vince thought while walking to Leah's office.

"How's the creation of Future Med going?" Vince asked.

"I called Dr. Sera when we arrived from the airport. She and her team agreed to join Future Med. I'm so excited to see them again!" Leah replied happily.

"I'm glad she accepted the offer. But, unfortunately, I'll need Future Med to expand quickly, and her team isn't enough. So I'll ask Hudson to help you recruit around 5,000 medical researchers and field doctors to start." Vince stated.

"Whatever. As long Dr. Sera's team works for Future Tech," Leah replied.

[I'm suspecting mom has a thing for Dr. Sera. I don't care, though, so it doesn't matter.] Vince thought as he walked towards Hudson's office.

"Hudson, please help my mother recruit medical experts for Future Med, a new division in the company. Around 5,000 to start and also hire specialists in medical nanomachines that'll collaborate with the robotics division in some projects." Vince instructed.

"How much is your budget?" Hudson asked.

"The $10 billion I gave mom will be your budget, but call me if you need more," Vince replied before going back to the penthouse.

He called Kyle, Jessica, Rick, and Sarah to grant access to the Dreamliner jet for use during their vacation, which will all be paid for by Vince as their Christmas present.

They appreciated the Christmas present and thanked Vince before they all started working again.

[I'll need legal protection in foreign countries now that the business is expanding outward. My partnership with Kemp-Jacobs will have to be reconsidered.] Vince thought.

He called David to meet him at his penthouse office to discuss the matter.

"What do you require, Vince?" David asked while sitting down on the sofa.

"How confident is Kemp-Jacobs in protecting my legal interests in South Korea and Afghanistan?" Vince asked seriously.

"We've been training our paralegals and partners foreign and international laws in preparation for Future Tech's inevitable expansion. So what's concerning you?" David replied.

"I take my partnership with Kemp-Jacobs personally because of all the help the law firm has done for my family. I want to invest in Kemp-Jacobs and become my primary legal force worldwide. The law firm can still represent your current clients, but no new clients are allowed without screening." Vince offered.

[The Deloitte accountants already left their firm, and the entire accounting department formally joined Future Tech a long time ago.] Vince thought.

"Accepting the offer is not my decision to make, but I'll send it up to Marcia," David replied.

"Thank you, David. Tell her my initial offer is $5 billion." Vince said before David took his leave.

[Legal troubles will be a nightmare when I eventually go toe to toe with President Lee. I'll need Kemp-Jacobs' full cooperation.] Vince pondered.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$80 Billion cash in Future Tech

10,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, Future Security, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med. Future Tech Robotics)

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

(Sorry, The System on Nanite Chapter was supposed to be after this chapter. My bad, guys)

It was Christmas day, and most of the employees were taking the week off to spend time with their families.

Vince got his mom a personal Hive Mind suite used to manufacture clothing.

"I love it, Vince! Thank you. Your gift will make my creative design process more streamlined and more effortless." Leah declared.

Leah gave Vince a gift wrapped in a box. "This is for you, son," Leah said as she handed him the box.

Vince opened the large box and found a set of clothing neatly displayed.

"It's the new Future Couture business suit I designed. I wanted to give you the first one." Leah said.

The suit itself was made of the latest generation Future Couture fabric colored in blue and black. The design looked sleek and unique, incomparable to any other suit Vince had ever seen in both lives.

"I love the design. Thank you!" Vince exclaimed.

They enjoyed Christmas dinner before resigning for the night.

Aiya accompanied Vince to the headquarters the next day to continue working on the military systems needed the next month.

During his off time, Vince started sketching a design concept for a troop transport vehicle FS operators can use to parachute into combat.

[Afghanistan is a large country, and all my security operators are precious lives. The troops will eventually divide in the field to secure the province. I need to make sure that reinforcements can arrive in the thick of battle to relieve their comrades.] Vince thought.

His 3D concept design implemented features based on Felix's advice.

The vehicle was large and bulky. The main body was an elongated armored shell with heavy sliding doors on either side like a helicopter.

Attached at each corner were four large swivel arms with jet engines that powered turbofans providing propulsion to whatever direction the arm points.

[It's quite rough, but I think FT Robotics and Future Arms can make it work. After that, I'll just buy the engines from Koenigsegg.] Vince thought

The Future Security operators were content in using modified M4A1 rifles while Future Arms developed the new infantry rifles.

Vince turned on his AIM gaming computer and played the Alpha of the new game Future Studios is developing.

He wanted Future Studios to compete with the most profitable games in his previous life. A single-player game Vince enjoyed the most was Grand Theft Auto 5.

The prototype featured similar gameplay like driving around the city in a car and a deep story to experience. The primary difference is the visual quality and the modding features.

Users can play online on modded servers to enjoy community-designed custom mini-games or gameplay scenarios like robbing a bank.

The game will end up as a mixture between GTA 5 and Roblox, providing players unlimited replayability.

Future Studios hired top celebrities like Robert Downey Jr. and Dwayne Johnson for voice-acting the main storylines.

[The game is already playable, but it'll take another six months before it can be released.] Vince thought while playing.

A game editor will be bundled with the game to encourage people to create 3D assets and script events of their own making.

Kandahar was more lively than usual. The local Future Tech branch provided work and training opportunities for people interested in changing their lives. At the same time, the outreach programs recruited farmers to grow crops in the SpaceX hydroponic farming dome in exchange for good pay, fruits, and vegetables.

Future Security operators were deployed in the city to ensure the safety of Future Tech's assets. However, the Dragonfly drones did most of the work patrolling around the branch headquarters and farming dome.

Farukh was an afghan local who started working at the Future Tech training facility. All employees were allowed to use the LAN center to learn more skills and climb the ladder during their off time.

Farukh was busy reading Dragonfly maintenance documentation and tutorial videos provided by Future Tech.

[I'm making good money right now, but the drone maintenance job will pay five times more than working as a janitor. So I have to take this chance to give my family a more comfortable life.] Farukh thought.

The same situation was common once Hudson opened the Future Tech training facility. Locals could now contribute to fighting the insurgents from the backlines.

Future Tech also recruits soldiers but requires an extensive screening process. Only trained and trusted allied Afghan soldiers were allowed to apply for combat roles.

Kandahar's economy was visibly better than ever, and the US army was impressed by the positive difference Future Tech brought to the city.

The US soldiers were confident their new comrades in blue would succeed in their mission at Dehdadi.

Another group of people took notice of Kandahar's rebuilding efforts, the Taliban and Al-Qaeda.

In a dimly lit room inside a non-descript cave, rugged men were meeting.

"Their new troops have these flying machines that can scan entire areas for concealed weapons and bomb jackets." one insurgent said.

"The new soldiers don't look like newbies. I'm sure most of them have fought in the Middle East before." another insurgent added.

"We'll have to plan our assault carefully. My intelligence source provided some information about our new enemy, Future Security. Their presence in Afghanistan is their first military contract. We kill them, and they'll never come back." the insurgent leader, Ashkan, said.

"Ashkan, how many men should we mobilize for the assault?" one of his men asked.

"1,000 men should be enough. I will take my time planning the attack while you train our soldiers. Then, we'll hit them next month." Ashkan declared.

Mid-January 2013, Future Tech HQ

Vince met with Andreas, the executive director for Hive Mind Manufacturing.

"Andreas, how's the aerodyne vehicle project going?" Vince asked.

"The Robotics and Arms divisions were able to polish your design these past few weeks. Future Arms added features such as anti-missile chaff and an M320 30mm chain gun mounted at the front and rear." Andreas replied.

"The FAV-1 can transport two gunners, ten fully armed operators, and can reach top speeds of 100 mph on flat ground. One unit costs $10 million to produce in-house." Andreas added.

"When can we equip Future Security with FAV-1s?" Vince asked.

"Hive Mind manufacturing can produce ten units before the Dehdadi mission starts, without disrupting production of our other products," Andreas replied.

"That's good to hear. Thanks for the update, Andreas." Vince said before leaving Andreas' office.

Vince visited Heidi's office on a different floor.

"Heidi, I heard from Andreas you did quick work of designing the FAV-1." Vince stated.

"Future Tech already had the necessary technologies to make it work, though Koenigsegg had to design a new jet engine. Christian was quite happy to create the turbofan engines." Heidi replied.

"We'll be renting troop transport planes for our first mission in Afghanistan, but Future Security needs a way of traversing the desert faster than the FAV-1 and with a heavier load capacity for transporting supplies," Vince explained.

"We can design a VTOL vehicle close to the size of a Chinook Helicopter. It can be less armored than the FAV-1, reducing weight, and utilize larger Koenigsegg turbofan engines for faster speed." Heidi suggested.

"That's a fantastic idea! I want the new vehicle able to carry a FAV-1 underneath like how Chinooks transport M1 Abrams tanks. You can ask help from Kevin if needed." Vince instructed.

"That should be no problem. Designing vehicles like these don't require much aerodynamics like regular planes, So we don't even need to consult with Future Tech F1 aero engineers for help in designing them." Heidi replied confidently.

"I trust in your capabilities, but contact me if you need anything," Vince said before leaving Heidi's office.

After the Christmas season, more veterans and private military operators started joining Future Security. The screening process took a few weeks, but another 5,000 operators joined the training camp at Austin.

Future Security's already trained troops were slowly transferred over to Kandahar to get ready for the mission in Dehdadi.

Future Tech rented US military C-5 Galaxies and C-17 Globemasters for a low price to transport their personnel overseas.

[This mission will decide how lucrative Future Tech defense contracts will be in the future.] Vince thought.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$80 Billion cash in Future Tech

11,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

10,000 operators under Future Security

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

(I uploaded this chapter mistakenly before releasing "A New Year" which is before this chapter. Sorry, guys!)

The first week of February 2013, Future Tech HQ.

A middle-aged British man wearing a lab coat was conducting tests embedding system-on-nanites within the microscopic nanotubes the AIM processors used.

"Amazing!" shouted one of the researchers.

[The Robotics division is genuinely one of the core businesses of Future Tech. I can see unlimited applications for this, though it will be expensive to explore them all.] Morgan pondered.

He immediately called Vince to notify him about their progress.

Vince arrived wearing typical Future Couture casual clothing.

"You got something good for me, Morgan?" Vince asked.

"Yes, Indeed. We've spent the past two weeks designing a workable system architecture for nanites to use with the assistance of the API sub-division. So instead of system-on-chip, we call it system-on-nanite."

"The first application we embedded into nanites was meant to optimize microprocessor performance. We didn't have much confidence because it was our first test, but the AIM processor has already doubled in computational capacity." Morgan explained fervently.

"Great work, Morgan. Take your time refining the S-O-N for performance optimization. You'll have to notify Andreas in halting the production of AIM processor-related products."

"How difficult are the nanites to program now that you've made an application program interface with Jessica?" Vince asked.

"We've done most of the leg work in altering the physical structure of the nanites. Experienced programmers should find it intuitive enough, though testing and learning would be prohibitively expensive without Hive Mind fabrication." Morgan replied.

Vince decided to share Morgan's research with all Future Tech executives to incorporate the new nanite technology into their division's projects.

[This breakthrough should help all the directors advance their technologies.] Vince thought.

An Israeli woman in her 30's wearing a labcoat received an executive notice regarding the nanite API.

Dr. Sera took a few minutes and read through the abstract.

[Nanites were too challenging to deal with before, but this new API Morgan developed will make things more manageable for Future Med.] Dr. Sera pondered.

"We'll be proceeding with our cancer elimination project. Get me one of the bioengineers ASAP." Dr. Sera said to her assistant.

All the divisions in Future Tech started applying the SON in their new designs. Kyle began programming the nanites to work in conjunction with Ms. Miller's FT VR prototype.

At the Kandahar Future Tech branch, Price was overseeing troop logistics with the US Air Force. Then, he received a notification on his smart glove about the nanite research.

Price tasked Future Security's nethunters to employ nanites for cybersecurity applications.

Heidi was in her office reading the shared research from Morgan.

[The materials science sub-division under Morgan is quite impressive to transform my nanites into 100-nanometer computer systems.] Heidi contemplated.

She left her office and walked to the Robotics laboratory.

"We'll have our software engineers focus on nanite program development. This new research from FT Micro Devices should improve our robotics technology tenfold." Heidi instructed.

Patel started an outline for nanite use in Future Tech AI.

[I can think of so many uses for AI nanites. The department had hit a roadblock, but this new research arrived just in time.] Patel thought.

Andreas immediately began upgrading the nanometer-precise Hive Mind manufacturing suites to provide ample supply to all of Future Tech's research teams.

Vince ordered a new building constructed at the Austin tech campus consisting of only clean rooms to prepare for mass production of nanites in the future.

Everyone at the headquarters was working hard and well. In addition, the new compensation structure for 2013 introduced by Vince and Hudson gave more impetus to contribute to Future Tech's growth.

Employees at the corporate level were given points or deductions based on performance.

Points accrued by the end of the fiscal year will determine bonuses, raises, and promotions.

Promotions included higher-level security access and better privileges like an armed security detail.

Hudson was still in the process of refining the points system for lower-level employees.

In a non-descript cave in the Registan Desert, a few men were discussing plans of an offensive.

"Ashkan, There has been an influx of the so-called Future Security troops in Kandahar. Our 1,000 men can't fight both the US army troops and the new enemies." an insurgent stated.

"I already know. My sources have noticed a small number of their troops leaving Kandahar and flying north towards Dehdadi. 500 operators at most. We shall attack them at the new forward operating base they're building in the north. Kandahar is too fortified now." Ashkan declared.

"Our mission is to kill their men and destroy their courage, never to return," Ashkan added.

Future Security's mission had only started a week ago, which mainly was a preparation phase. The US Army 1014th Engineer company had built a crude base a year prior. The mission entailed securing the base and clearing the province of insurgents.

Price would send 500 operators in cycles to man the forward operating base while performing to meet the mission objectives.

The living quarters at Kandahar were much better than any forward operating base. Price wanted his men only to spend a few weeks at a time working at the FOB.

General Douglas was notified of the positive changes at Kandahar and decided to grant Future Security the new contract in securing the large city in advance.

President Obama was reluctant to sign the $10 billion contract, but General Douglas reassured him based on opinions from the US Army detachment stationed at Kandahar.

The original weapons contract was scheduled to be on track this year. Future Tech had upgraded most of the existing recon drones and fulfilled the Dragonfly drone and IED sweeper bot orders.

Kevin and Patel finalized the advanced stratospheric recon UAV's design and contracted the use of SpaceX's mega building facility for space to manufacture the ASR-1.

[We've never had a military defense contractor deliver orders this quick.] General Douglas thought while smoking a cigar in his office at the Pentagon.

After Vince bought the company, Future Arms took over Alliant Techsystems' current defense contracts supplying the military with munitions and continuously produced missiles and rockets at the Virginia branch.

A few days later, at dawn. Hundreds of pickup trucks carrying 1,000 insurgents rolled through the desert, weapons in hand. Ashkan stored AK-47's, RPG's and other assorted small arms within the truckbeds.

The men were confident, knowing they had the numbers advantage.

"Ashkan, we're only destroying a forward operating base. Why do we need so many men?" an insurgent officer asked.

"The men have trained well. They deserve to relish in the deaths of infidels." Ashkan replied while driving a pickup truck with a mounted PK machine gun.

Price was working on the division's nanite project when he received a notification on his smart glove. An autonomous Future Security RQ-4 Global Hawk that he bought from the US Air Force and modified at Austin HQ found a large contingent of insurgents in the north.

Price remotely calibrated the autonomous flight system from his smart glove to follow the mass of soldiers for now.

He turned on his FT laptop computer and saw insurgents headed to the Dehdadi forward operating base.

Price placed the entire Afghanistan branch on high alert. As a result, FS operators woke up from sleep or stopped training and readied themselves for an attack in Kandahar and the Dehdadi FOB.

[It will take the insurgents 30 minutes at least before they arrive at the FOB. The detachment is outnumbered, so I'll have to send reinforcements soon.] Price pondered.

He chose fifty operators and ten gunners to deploy in five FAV-1 vehicles. Price called the US army commander stationed at Kandahar and borrowed five Chinook helicopters to carry the FAV-1s into combat.

The FAV-1s took flight using the four turbofan engines and rendezvoused with the US Army helicopter squad outside the city.

Local Afghans were awed watching heavily armored troop transports flying through the air without propellers.

[It looks like Kandahar isn't a target, though I hope the reinforcements arrive in time at the FOB.] Price contemplated.

Farukh was a newly minted aerodyne pilot who was once a lowly janitor at the Kandahar training facility. He passed the Dragonfly maintenance certification and continued his studies in FAV piloting.

The control system was utterly intuitive, and Farukh passed the pilot test after a week of training.

[I'm so nervous about my first mission in the field, but this is my responsibility now. My comrades are relying on me.] So Farukh thought while piloting the FAV-1 towards the airbase.

Check out the new RLBT website at

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$90 Billion cash in Future Tech

11,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

10,000 operators under Future Security

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

February 2013, Dehdadi Forward Operating Base.

A heavily armed and armored caucasian man in his 30s was giving orders around the FOB.

"Get all of our Dragonflies in the sky to keep tabs on the enemy. And have all the operators man defensive positions around the base. Price estimates 1,000 insurgents are coming armed with rifles, rocket-propelled grenades, and driving NSTVs." Felix instructed an officer.

[The estimated arrival of our reinforcements is 45 minutes while the insurgents will come into contact in 30 minutes. It's cutting it close, but we'll manage.] Felix contemplated.

Half an hour passed, and a horde of pickup trucks could be seen on the horizon. The scene looked like a sandstorm as all the sand was dispersed by a thousand tires.

The Future Arms M1156 precision guidance kits weren't installed at the forward operating base yet, leaving Felix and his men lacking artillery fire.

The insurgents were attempting to gain some ground while the FS operators were maintaining gunfire. The enemies were fearless in their assault as they ignored their fellow insurgents' cries for help after getting shot.

It took ten minutes before the enemies were within RPG range. FS snipers attempted to kill any enemy carrying heavy weapons, but one brave soul got close enough to destroy the base's entrance before dying to a headshot.

A mass of 800 men aimed to swarm the breach in FOB's defenses while machine guns mounted on trucks provided cover fire for the insurgents.

FS operators killed the enemies as they ran through the breach, but their sheer number allowed some of them to get through.

The insurgents had never raided a forward operating base so brazenly before with such large numbers.

The FS operators slowly retreated to more defensive fortifications in the middle of the FOB while the insurgents surrounded the area.

"Cowards! Come out and fight us!" an insurgent shouted in Arabic.

Plenty of insurgents were cheering as if they had already won the battle.

[This should teach the infidels the folly of their ways.] So Ashkan thought while commanding the attack from the rear.

While some insurgents were looking for undamaged RPGs to blow up the main fortifications, they heard loud propeller noises in the sky.

Five Chinook helicopters carrying unfamiliar vehicles that looked like tanks from afar were heading towards the open area outside the FOB.

"Altitude is good. Confirming drop sequence." Farukh communicated to the Chinook pilot in English.

"Dropping!" replied the helicopter pilot.

The insurgents expected the helicopters to go low as they readied RPGs to shoot them down but were dumbfounded watching the tank-like vehicles being dropped from so high.

[Dumb Americans. They'll destroy their own equipment just like that?] Ashkan thought.

Their expectations were completely off as the FAV-1s started hovering in the air while gaining speed.

Farukh piloted his FAV-1 flawlessly, positioning the vehicle at just the right angle to provide a clear view for both his gunners.

Three FAV-1s were raining cover fire while the other two landed and dropped the troop reinforcements on the ground.

The insurgents were receiving heavy fire from the air, flank, and central fortification in the FOB.

The moment Ashkan watched the FAV-1s glide through the air effortlessly, he knew they had lost the battle.

[Our flanks are compromised. There's no hope for this fight.] Ashkan pondered as he drove away, far from the battle dejectedly.

Future Security took no prisoners and slaughtered the entire enemy force.

The men cheered after winning an outnumbered battle before thanking the reinforcements for their quick response.

Felix performed a death and injury check and found two FS operators dead and eight wounded.

The FS operators mourned the death of the two brave comrades who didn't make it back to the central fortification in time while cleaning up the battlefield.

The Chinook helicopters took their dead and wounded back to Kandahar with the FAV-1s in tow.

[War is cruelty, there is no use trying to reform it; the crueler it is, the sooner it will be over.] a quote by William Sherman, Felix thought while gathering the enemy's dead bodies.

The Global Hawk recon drone continued to follow a fleeing pickup truck in the sky, unbeknownst to Ashkan.

[Where do you think you're going?] Price thought while using his computer.

Price ordered the remaining five FAV-1s to be ready for deployment before contacting the US military commander.

"Our forces at Dehdadi were able to repel the 1,000 man-strong assault. My recon drone is following an escapee. I was wondering if the army would like to join us in our retaliation." Price offered to the colonel.

"Good work in eliminating those bastards. We've been trying to find their local base for years now, and they rarely come out and play in such high numbers." The colonel replied.

"The reinforcements saved the day. Thank you for lending us your Chinook squad." Price said sincerely.

"That's no problem. Let me know if you find anything interesting by following the escapee. The marines were telling me how bored they were with peacekeeping." The colonel replied before bidding farewell.

Price then called Vince to notify his boss about what happened.

Vince picked up his phone, and Price started explaining the situation in detail.

"We'll start a fund for our dead's families. They don't deserve to live a life without a husband or a father." Vince said solemnly.

"They knew the risks of war, Vince. Nevertheless, they fought bravely and won an outnumbered battle." Price replied reassuringly.

"I'm glad most of you guys are safe. Transfer the injured to Future Med Hospital here at Austin. We'll do whatever we can to treat them." Vince instructed.

"They're already enroute. I want to request for Future Security to join an offensive mission outside of our military contract scope." Price replied.

"Revenge is not always the way, Price. Yet, in this case, it is. So do what you will but don't get the men killed for no good reason." Vince instructed.

"You said it yourself, Vince. We'll win this war ourselves if we have to. Thank you for caring about the men. They'll be touched to hear about your new fund for our inevitable casualties." Price replied before Vince ended the call.

The Global Hawk recon drone sent a video of Ashkan driving into an almost invisible cave entrance in the Registan Desert a few hours after the battle to Price.

Price studied the footage and sent it to the stationed colonel.

He deployed the five reserve FAV-1s to scout the area of interest with Dragonflies.

The cave complex showed signs of daily use but was now almost entirely empty. Instead, FS operators found Ashkan gathering all his valuable belongings, planning to escape the region.

Ashkan attempted to flee as soon as he saw a Dragonfly at the end of the cave corridor. He tried to shoot it down when the Dragonfly got closer but was shot with a tranquilizer dart before hitting it.

FS operators arrived and apprehended the unconscious insurgent leader before investigating the cave complex.

Computers and documents in Arabic were scattered around the area.

An FS squad leader carried a data access node from a FAV-1 into the cave's server room.

"Director, we've found some interesting things down here, including a rebel leader. I've installed a Node in one of the server rooms for your nethunters to use." The squad leader said over his communicator.

"Good work. I'll be sending reinforcements from the colonel to relieve your team in a few hours. Stay on high alert before they get there." Price replied before contacting his nethunter team.

An Asian-American man in his late 20's received a call from Price.

"Anthony, I have a mission for the nethunters. First, find out anything you can from the newly raided cave complex. FS installed a Node already. I'll grant you access now." Price instructed.

Anthony was a young SOCOM operator when Price met him. Price mentored him for years while serving in the Special Forces and eventually found a job in the NSA after his three tours in the Middle East.

He specialized in cybersecurity, specifically intrusion and espionage. Price granted him a squad leader role within Future Security after the expansion.

The nethunter team worked out of the Austin Headquarters and had access to any tool they needed within their offices.

[Their data security is so-so. On the other hand, ten minutes of penetration time isn't too bad.] Anthony thought.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$90 Billion cash in Future Tech

11,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

10,000 operators under Future Security

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

Later the same day.

Anthony and his nethunter team found lists of names, bases, accounts, and all sorts of valuable information.

He then sent all their findings to Price, waiting for results at Kandahar.

[I can work with this.] Price thought before contacting General Douglas in his office at the Pentagon.

"Price, I've just heard of what happened from the Colonel. Future Security did very well in a tough situation." General Douglas declared.

"Thank you for your kind words, General. I wanted to speak to you about the information we've uncovered from the insurgent's base." Price stated.

"How valuable is the information?" General Douglas asked.

He understood that Future Security was a business and wouldn't share profitable information without compensation.

"I believe it's enough information to turn the tide of the entire war." Price stated confidently.

"The DOD has already paid a total of $46 billion in contracts thus far. So how much are you trying to sell this information?" General Douglas asked, a bit annoyed.

"For $10 billion, Future Security will share all the new intelligence and assist for the entire retaliatory mission's duration." Price offered.

"Fine. I'll talk to the President. We have a vast military budget, but you guys are earning all of it too quickly.] General Douglas stated before Price bade farewell.

The Colonel stationed at Kandahar received the new intelligence from Price.

[Where have Future Security been all this time? They've been doing fantastic work here so far.] So the Colonel thought while reading the report.

Detachments from various US military branches were getting ready for the retaliation mission. Target locations provided by the new intelligence were being observed by autonomous recon drones far in the sky.

FS operators boarded FAV-1s and Chinooks to be transported to their mission locations together with US marine soldiers.

The US Army started deploying mechanized infantry units towards the designated areas, while Price oversaw the battle from Kandahar.

General Douglas granted Price command of the mission based on Future Security's performance so far.

Thousands of US military Dragonflies swarmed key locations and sent their vital information back to command.

Thousands of insurgents training and hiding around Afghanistan were unaware of the oncoming danger they were about to face.

Special Forces and Navy Seals units were briefed regarding the new intelligence's high-value targets and last known locations.

[Revenge can be sweet at times.] Price pondered while overseeing the upcoming battle.

Price would deploy a combined offensive consisting of 2,000 FS operators and 10,000 US military troops the same evening.

A few hours later, most of the units arrived at their mission locations and commenced Operation Quicksand.

Marine infantry assaulted cave complexes while Army infantry raided suspected insurgent buildings across Afghanistan.

The surprise battle caught all the local insurgents off guard, and most of them fought, thinking rebel reinforcements would arrive to help.

That was not the case at all, as most bases were being raided at the same time.

Navy Seals and Special Forces performed HALO jumps in the dead of night at multiple areas in Afghanistan, hunting their high-value targets like rebel leaders and bombmakers.

The US military's pure might is unstoppable when they fight head-on against an enemy. There was no guerilla warfare to defend against in their surprise attacks.

The following day, the troops counted no deaths and few casualties among allies, while thousands of insurgents were either dead or captured.

Operation Quicksand was a huge success, thanks to Future Security's intelligence and fast response after the Battle of Dehdadi.

SOCOM killed most of the high-value targets, and all the information left was gathered.

Price congratulated the FS operators and staff and gave them a mission bonus before contacting General Douglas regarding the operation.

"General, Operation Quicksand has concluded. The mission was a total success." Price stated proudly.

"I didn't expect such a flawlessly coordinated assault. The money was well spent. I'll contact the President for further instruction. Thank you, Price." The General replied in surprise.

From Dehdadi to Operation Quicksand, The troops fought the entire battle in a little over twenty-four hours.

In the Oval Office, DC

"General Douglas, what do you have for me today?" President Obama asked.

"Mr. President, the tides of war in Afghanistan have shifted. The recent Operation Quicksand decimated the local insurgent presence, with only a few stragglers escaping to different countries around Afghanistan." General Douglas explained.

"Is this boon related to our new deal with Future Security?" The President asked.

"Yes. I granted Director Price command of the operation as Future Security provided the intelligence. As a result, none of our 10,000 troops were killed or injured as we caught the insurgents off-guard. In addition, the operation resulted in 5,000 insurgents in custody and 15,000 dead rebels and high-value targets," General Douglas replied.

"That's more than half of the active insurgents in the area. Future Security did well. We'll have to celebrate this victory as a turning point in the war." President Obama declared excitedly.

A civilian living in Chicago was watching the daily news while eating breakfast. He was so busy with work that geopolitical issues like foreign wars were of no interest to him.

The show was stopped abruptly while in the middle of a segment.

"Breaking news! US military forces have culled 20,000 of the 30,000 active insurgents in Afghanistan. President Obama stated during a press conference that Operation Quicksand had increased chances of US victory within a few years ten-fold."

"It has been reported that Future Security, a subsidiary of Future Technologies, provided vital intelligence and military support, including the complete command for the entire operation."

Video footage recorded by Dragonfly drones was released to the public as a glimpse into the war effort.

The reporter explained how the operation started, from the miraculous Battle of Dehdadi to the night operation consisting of 12,000 allied troops.

Outlets broadcasted the same news on all the major US channels and online platforms.

Users upvoted Reddit posts in r/Military to the front page, and everyone was commenting about the operation.

"Why would a teenager involve himself in a war?" one user commented.

"Does it even matter? We won, and that is what's important!" another user replied.

The news spread from US news outlets to international news corporations like the BBC and News Corp. Foreigners were intrigued by the idea of a private corporation in helping win a war.

Price contacted Vince for an update on the offensive.

"You've outdone yourself this time, Price. I believe you can grow Future Security into a formidable force soon. You can keep the $10 billion as capital for Future Security." Vince instructed.

"Thanks, Vince. I'll use the funds wisely." Price stated before ending the call.

Price ordered 100 more FAV-1s from Hive Mind manufacturing for $1 billion due to the effectiveness of the first ten FAV-1s Future Security used during the operation.

While ordering the FAV-1s, Price noticed a new vehicle in the Hive Mind availability list. It was a VTOL transport craft as big as a Chinook that could tow 10 tonnes of cargo like a FAV-1 or carry 55 troops called the Stingray.

The Stingray costs $25 million each, and Price decided to order 100 for a total of $2.5 billion. Price had $6.5 billion cash left from the latest defense contract and opted to save the money for further troop expansion.

Vince walked into Leah's office at the Austin headquarters to discuss a new fund for the dead operators' families.

"Hey, mom. Have you seen the news recently?" Vince asked.

"I've heard about what happened in Afghanistan. Price had done a great job working with the US military." Leah replied.

"Two of our Future Security operators died defending the Dehdadi FOB. I was hoping you could start a fund for their families and our inevitable casualties in the future." Vince stated.

"Yes, of course. I'll prepare the fund as soon as possible." Leah replied.

"Thanks. I'll talk to Dr. Sera about our injured soldiers. See you later, mom." Vince said before leaving her office.

Vince took his Agera SFV and security detail to Future Med Hospital down the street.

The building was large and shared the futuristic aesthetic with the headquarters and tech campus.

A young receptionist saw Vince and his security enter the main lobby.

His bodyguards entered first to secure the area before allowing the young CEO to follow.

"Mr. Dalton, what can Future Med do for you today?" the cute lady receptionist asked.

"I'd like to see Dr. Sera and injured FS operators," Vince stated.

The receptionist manipulated her keyboard and received a reply notification a few seconds later.

"She says you can meet her at the director's office." the receptionist stated.

Vince thanked the receptionist as his entourage took the elevator.

"Dr. Sera, I'm glad to see you. How are the injured doing?" Vince asked in concern.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$90 Billion cash in Future Tech

11,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

10,000 operators under Future Security

Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

February 2013, Future Med.

"Good to see you, Vince. The injured are resting in their rooms. Seven of them suffered from non-fatal bullet wounds to their limbs and will fully recover in a month, though one had a leg blown off from an RPG blast." Dr. Sera explained.

"Is there anything Future Tech can do?" Vince asked, concerned.

"Heidi and I have begun a joint project between Future Med and Future Robotics. We're developing cybernetic limb and organ replacement methods. The smart nanites will act as a control mechanism within the blood, allowing users to manipulate the implant or metal-alloy limb." Dr. Sera explained.

"The concept sounds promising. Make sure to contact David to work out FDA testing. You'll end up helping plenty of people if this works. I'm willing to provide as much funding as I can with projects like these." Vince instructed.

"Alright, while we're on topic. Smart nanites have changed my view of the medical industry. For example, our cancer treatment project is progressing at an astonishing rate. In the worst cases, we can technically remove the organ hosting the tumor and replace it with a synthetic one."

"We can also design smart nanites to fight cancer cells at earlier cancer stages. Body function performance-enhancing nanites are just around the corner, Vince." Dr. Sera explained zealously.

"Cancer?! How much funding do you need? $10 billion or $50 billion?" Vince excitedly asked.

[Curing cancer? That's amazing!] Vince thought.

"An additional $5 billion to our 2013 budget would suffice for now." Dr. Sera replied.

"Granted. When you succeed, you'll be a legend in the medical industry, Dr. Sera." Vince declared.

"Thanks for the confidence, Vince. We'll pass the FDA trials and deliver a profitable product for Future Tech soon." Dr. Sera replied.

At Kandahar, Price went shopping and bought Andrews International and all its assets for $2 billion, including 10,000 active personnel and combat training facilities across the United States.

[We'll have to start guarding more key telecommunications hubs Future Tech had bought around the world soon.] Price thought while browsing the company equipment store.

At the executive level, staff can order most of the available Future Tech equipment. Lower-level employees can only order company consumer products with a few exceptions.

Price placed his orders for new vehicles, weapons, and armor for Future Security.

Vince decided to expand the Hive Mind Manufacturing division. He was expecting more orders from the military and regular consumers based on their popularity and effectiveness.

Vince visited Andreas in his office at the headquarters.

"Andreas, I'll be investing $35 billion in our Hive Mind division. Consult SpaceX about their large manufacturing buildings and integrate some at the tech campus. We'll be constructing large planes the size of Boeing Globemasters soon." Vince instructed.

"Understood, Vince. Patel and his department have implemented smart nanites with our high-precision Hive Mind suites. As a result, producing smart nanites now is less than half the cost as it was a few weeks ago." Andreas replied.

"That's perfect! I'm expecting smart nanites to be in hot demand for the foreseeable future. I appreciate your hard work, Andreas." Vince stated before bidding farewell.

Ashkan was detained at a US military base while being interrogated by CIA agents in a pitch-black room.

A CIA officer shined an intense light towards the prisoner's face.

"How many more active insurgents are in Afghanistan?" the officer asked in Arabic.

"I'll never answer. You know this. What you don't know is that I'm just a small cog in a master plan," Ashkan replied.

"What do you mean, Ashkan?" another officer asked.

"You will know soon. We will rise and destroy your infidel way of life. We will cleanse our lands of western sentiment from the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. Daesh will crush you." Ashkan said before turning silent again.

The Daesh precursor organization from Iraq originally sent Ashkan to Afghanistan. They entrusted Ashkan to disrupt NATO forces and plant IED traps on all the major highways.

Ashkan was doing well the past two years, killing and injuring many US troops with IEDs and ambushes.

The Future Tech IED sweeper bots cleaned out all their traps in Afghanistan and left Ashkan in a bind.

He needed to deliver results and decided to attack Kandahar and instill fear into the enemy.

His plan completely backfired and left him with no army and freedom, though he still believed in the cause.

[It was a risk and would've been a glorious victory, but it was God's plan, and I accept my fate.] So Ashkan thought in the pitch-dark prison cell.

March 2013, Oval Office

President Obama had his secretary clear his schedule for the next day.

He decided to visit Future Tech headquarters in Texas. His staff notified Future Tech and the City of Austin about the president's visit to prepare with ample time.

Aiya contacted Vince regarding the presidential visit after she received the notification.

"I'll have the penthouse and offices ready to welcome President Obama and his entourage. I shall also notify the executives who may want to meet His Excellency." Aiya stated over her smartwatch.

It was one of many new smart devices that will start selling in a few months.

"Thanks for the heads up. Ready a Future Security escort equipped with Dragonflies and Stingrays. They will meet Air Force One at the airport. Would you please tell my mother to attend the welcoming?" Vince asked.

"Understood," Aiya replied before closing the comlink channel.

[It's the perfect occasion to wear the new suit mom gave me for Christmas.] Vince thought.

A contingent of FS operators boarded three Stingrays at the headquarters' helipad.

They arrived at the private hangar and secured the perimeter with Dragonflies.

Air Force One landed half an hour later.

[A security escort, how thoughtful.] President Obama thought.

He walked off the plane surrounded by secret service agents and was welcomed by a peculiar-looking human.

Aiya curtsied with respect before speaking to the President.

"Welcome to Austin, Mr. President. My name is Aiya, Vince's butler bot. I invite you to board one of our Stingrays prepared to fly us to the headquarters." Aiya stated.

The secret service agents were skeptical about the request, but President Obama didn't mind as he boarded the flying vehicle immediately.

[The Stingray is beautiful. It looks and works like a V-22 Osprey but with turbofans instead of traditional propellers.] Obama pondered while he watched the city pass by through the windows.

The three Stingrays landed vertically on the helipad without issue.

Aiya guided them towards Vince's penthouse below the helipad.

"Welcome to Future Tech, Mr. President. First, I would like to introduce to you my mother, Leah." Vince stated.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Leah." The President said as he kissed her hand.

"I never imagined having the chance to meet our president. It's an honor." Leah replied.

"It was inevitable considering how brilliant your son is," Obama stated.

"Would you like something to eat or a tour first?" Vince asked.

"A meal would be delightful," Obama replied.

The maids prepared Austin favorites for the President to try while their group conversed in the living room.

"The Stingray we flew in was marvelous. I'd like to meet the person who designed it." Obama stated.

"Heidi and the robotics division designed the bulk of it, but the Future Tech F1 team consulted with aerodynamics," Vince replied.

"Has Future Tech designed other aircraft?" Obama asked curiously.

"We have a turbofan armored troop transport, a long-haul cargo plane, and an advanced stratospheric recon UAV in production," Vince replied.

Kyle, Jessica, Rick, and Sarah made their way to the penthouse living room to meet the President.

Vince introduced each of them as co-founders of Future Studios and good friends.

They conversed in small talk for a few minutes before the President decided to start the tour.

Vince showed Obama around the building avoiding the most secure areas, and introduced him to Dollar, Heidi, Patel, Andreas, Morgan, and Ms. Taylor Miller.

Vince explained the many projects Future Tech was researching at a surface level which intrigued the President more and more.

"I can't believe your company is using nanocomputers in such a sophisticated way. Your products are genuinely futuristic, just like your company's name." Obama declared excitedly.

[That's not really why I named the company Future Technologies but close enough.] Vince thought.

"Wait until you see what's going on in Future Med. It's down the street. We'll get there faster on a FAV-1." Vince offered while they left the headquarters.

A Future Tech security squad was waiting for them in front of the building.

Vince and Obama entered the FAV-1 parked next to the security squad.

The President entered the vehicle out of curiosity and was surprised when the FAV-1 started levitating over the street.

"Is it even legal to drive this thing in the city?" Obama asked out of concern.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$50 Billion cash in Future Tech

11,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

"Don't worry. The Austin police department wanted to use one so severely that the city changed street laws to accommodate aerodyne vehicles." Vince stated.

"I can clearly see why. It's relatively quick for being heavily armored and can fly over traffic." Obama replied.

"We've been working on police patrol, emergency, and personal vehicle variants of the FAV-1. They'll be cheaper but still outrageously more expensive than regular vehicles." Vince stated.

"How expensive are we talking?" Obama asked curiously.

"Each would cost at least $5 million without options. A medical suite and life support system, for example, would cost an additional $2 million." Vince replied.

"$7 million for an ambulance does sound expensive. However, more affluent cities in the United States will undoubtedly order some." Obama stated.

"Koenigsegg has spent months refining the Freevalve Turbofan Engine to conform with current helicopter aviation and emission laws. I hope your administration will take significant consideration when a bill about aerodyne vehicles comes to pass." Vince said sincerely.

[It would be a waste if I couldn't sell my vehicles to the civilian market because of some random laws.] Vince pondered.

"And of course, I'll provide the White House a set of Future Tech AVs to use at your leisure," Vince added.

[The secret service would be pleased trying out cutting-edge vehicles. Even I want to take one out for a spin.] Obama pondered.

"You're too good at playing the politics game for such a young man. I'll have the Democratic Party back your bill when the time comes. But I get to keep one after my term." Obama replied honestly.

"A custom AV can be arranged. I'll show you our catalog after visiting Future Med Hospital." Vince stated.

The FAV-1 landed vertically on a reserved AV parking space outside Future Med. The secret service detail secured the area before the President was allowed to enter the building.

[I never knew I was getting the secret service treatment from my FS security detail.] So Vince thought while watching the agents surround their boss.

The hospital was prepared for the President's visit, and the receptionist immediately led the guests to Dr. Sera's office.

Vince introduced them to each other before taking a tour around the facilities.

"This area is our patient ward. Seven Future Security operators are recovering from wounds taken during the Battle of Dehdadi." Dr. Sera explained.

"The FS operators did excellent work out in the field. I'll meet them later after our tour." the President declared.

They walked around the hospital and reached the bioengineering laboratory.

A young man in his twenties was seen jogging at an unbelievable pace.

"That man jogging is Marco. He lost one of his legs in an explosion. So we've replaced it with a cybernetic metal-alloy leg seamlessly integrated onto his torso. He uses smart nanites in his bloodstream to control the cybernetic limb, just like the old one. Though he runs a bit faster now." Dr. Sera explained.

"I can see that," Obama replied plainly.

[Future Tech is advancing technology in so many fields in a place like Austin. This company has to be the most diverse in the world.] Obama pondered in shock.

"We have one last major project that I can't share right now. It hasn't been approved by the FDA yet." Dr. Sera stated honestly.

"That's fine. I've experienced too many shocking revelations in one day." Obama stated.

The President met with Marco and the other operators recovering from their injuries after the tour.

They boarded the FAV-1 and headed back to the headquarters helipad.

"Vince, those men are true patriots, especially that Marco fellow. He saved his comrades by kicking a grenade away but was caught by the shrapnel a few seconds after." Obama explained.

"I agree; they are true patriots. Will you be staying the night here at Austin? I can have Aiya prepare lodgings for you and the secret service agents." Vince offered.

"Thank you for the hospitality, but I should head back to the capital soon," Obama replied.

"Thank you for stopping by. I hope you can express how much I value my partnership with the government to the people of Capitol Hill." Vince requested before the President left on a Stingray.

Obama kept busy by choosing custom options for his civilian AV on a Future Tech mobile phone.

[I hope the President enjoyed the tour. It would be great to have the President as a backup if anything goes sideways overseas, especially with the Mr. Lee problem.] Vince thought.

Vince checked his daily reports and found five police FAVs ready to be delivered.

He decided to donate them to the Austin Police Department for their assistance with the assassination attempt investigation two years earlier.

While working on some new projects, he suddenly received a call from Christian.

"Christian, my friend, How have you been?" Vince asked, using the secure comlink.

"I've been busy keeping up with all your engine orders. I'll need more Hive Mind drones soon. But that's not why I'm calling. Will you be attending the Formula 1 race in Melbourne? You should go because it's your team's first race." Christian explained.

"I'll go if you're going. We can ask Elon too if he has the spare time." Vince suggested.

"Of course I'm going. I want to watch my freevalve engines go racing. That's a wonderful idea. I'll call Elon after." Christian replied.

"Christian, I'll have Future Security protect you like an executive director. You're too important to our business. If you don't mind." Vince offered.

"I don't feel any danger, but I'll allow it. My own business had grown several times over after partnering with you. It's the least I can do." Christian said before bidding farewell.

[I hadn't seen Randall since his Formula 2 Championship win last year. I should visit Future Tech F1 in the UK to see how things are going.] Vince pondered.

March 10, 2013.

Vince and his entourage flew on the Dreamliner to the UK.

He was visiting the Future Tech F1 headquarters at Silverstone. A few miles away from the Silverstone track itself.

[It would be dope to drive the Agera SFV around Silverstone.] So Vince thought before his ride arrived at the headquarters.

He was welcomed by Kevin Lawson, the executive director of FT F1.

"Welcome, Vince. I heard you'll be attending the Australian Grand Prix. I assumed you were too busy." Kevin stated.

"I've been busy, true. But Christian reminded me, thankfully." Vince replied.

"His engines are pieces of art. We've always been a small team in F1, but I believe Mr. Koenigsegg's engines can win us the Constructors Championship this year." Kevin replied reverently.

"You should try racing an aerodyne vehicle. Though, I think it's hazardous." Vince suggested jokingly.

"I've seen the company research and demo footage. So I might do that someday. Let me show you our car package for 2013." Kevin stated.

Kevin brought Vince into the main laboratory, where the cars were on display.

The F1 cars looked similar to 2013 season cars in Vince's past life but employed more sophisticated aerodynamic details like fins and ridges.

The color theme they chose was the Future Tech blue-black-white.

"The cars look stunning, Kevin. But, does the team have enough parts for the season?" Vince asked.

"With the budget you gave us, we can develop and maintain the cars without problems. It's our first time having such a large budget, but we'll make the best out of the funds." Kevin explained.

"I trust in your decisions, Kevin. How are the drivers doing?" Vince asked.

"They're in the simulation room practicing for next week's race. The Future Tech AIM simulator has been the envy of our racing rivals the past winter break. The drivers say it's like driving for real." Kevin explained proudly.

"I leave them be for now. I don't want to disturb our drivers' practice time." Vince said.

They walked around the Silverstone headquarters as Kevin introduced Vince to notable members of the team.

Kevin and Vince met with both drivers for dinner later that night.

"It's good to see you, Randall. We're glad to have you as one of our drivers." Vince said while shaking Randall's hand.

"Thank you for the opportunity. The car is quick, and I'm confident in my chances this season." The Austinian replied.

"Vince, this is Nico Hulkenberg, our other driver. He's been with us since 2011 and signed a new deal." Kevin stated.

"It's good to meet you, Nico. I hope to watch some great racing next week." Vince declared.

"I'll strive to put on a show for you, Mr. Dalton," Nico replied nervously.

"Call me Vince. We'll be giving out cash bonuses for championship points scored and consistency. So do your best out there." Vince declared before starting to eat.

He flew back to Austin the same night and planned to fly to Melbourne on Thursday of the following week.

[The race might be more exciting than the APL Finals now that I have a horse in the race.] So Vince thought while lying on his bed in the Dreamliner.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$50 Billion cash in Future Tech

11,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

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March 12, 2013. The Capitol Building.

Inside the historical building, many people were discussing a newly proposed bill.

A middle-aged Caucasian politician stood tall behind the podium, House Speaker John Boehner.

He was a House Representative from Ohio and a Republican.

Boehner was a powerful man considering his leadership position within the Republican Party.

John Boehner was involved in plenty of US committees, including the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.

Boehner had his disagreements with President Obama due to party oppositions and has clashed in politics many a time.

As a conservative, Boehner was against gay marriage, and his party approved. But he would also support initiatives like Planned Parenthood that destroyed his relationship with the Republican party in the future.

"Thank you all for coming. The President has convened this congressional session using Article II Section 3 of the US Constitution." Mr. Boehner declared with a loud voice.

President Obama walked up to the central podium and started speaking.

"Senators and Representatives, I have gathered you here today to discuss the United State's future. As you all know by now, Future Technologies has made significant contributions to our war in Afghanistan and the domestic economy. Two years' worth of its federal taxes is $100 billion.

I visited young Dalton's headquarters in Austin a few days ago to observe how Future Tech operated.

They are innovators in almost every field and industry—medicine, semiconductors, AI, robotics, material science, micro, and heavy manufacturing. All of these technologies seamlessly integrate themselves to produce products we enjoy and use every day. Who here still owns an iPhone?

The Democratic party has drafted a bill to allow significant consideration in enacting laws in technological advancements.

The first few pages outline federal guidelines allowing aerodyne vehicles across the United States, with varying limitations based on location.

The bill also includes changes with how the US Food and Drug Administration can prioritize testing and trials based on the research's impact on our nation.

Each of you should receive a copy of the draft shortly," Obama stated with a regal aura.

The President stepped away from the podium, and John Boehner took his place.

President Obama has already persuaded the US senators with some old-fashioned politics to expedite the bill's processing.

"Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has agreed to a motion to proceed. And Senate President Joe Biden is enacting Cloture Rule. We will be convening in two days to vote for or against the bill." John Boehner declared.

The senators and representatives were dismissed and slowly vacated the meeting hall.

John Boehner was curious how President Obama convinced the entire senate to enact Cloture Rule, rare and risky.

"Mr. President, What makes you so confident in passing this new bill?" Boehner asked.

"This bill is the easiest one yet. I just showed the senators FDA trial results from Future Med, and they all agreed." Obama replied honestly.

"What's so important that persuaded all one hundred senators to utilize Cloture Rule?" Boehner asked curiously.

"Future Medicine is close to perfecting technology to cure all types of cancer," Obama replied with a grin.

"You're joking. That's impossible!" Boehner replied in shock.

"The trials and tests tell no lie. Future Technologies will help the US maintain market competitiveness, and this bill makes sure that happens."

"I know you're against my national security policy, but things will change soon. Finally, you'll get the compromise you've been looking for regarding a post 9-11 society. Future Tech will help us win the wars in the Middle East and maintain western ideologies while we allocate more resources to East Asia and Eastern Europe." Obama explained.

[Even if we win the war, national security will still be at risk from the few remaining radicals. However, it seems like Mr. President is confident in his plans. I'll hear him out sometime, Boehner pondered.

"Thank you for the explanation, Mr. President," Boehner replied before Obama left the hall.

Two days later, at Capitol Hill, the "Protection for Domestic Innovation" bill was approved by a senate majority vote. Almost all senators voted yes, and the bill was enacted immediately after President Obama signed the document.

Government departments from the county to the federal level started changing and adding laws based on the new bill.

Local news outlets caught wind of the new bill's passing and immediately shared the news with the masses.

On a random television in California home, a family was watching the CNN evening news.

"A new bill has been voted on in Congress earlier today. The "Protection for Domestic Innovation" bill was enacted to allow local companies to implement society-changing technologies. CNN sources found several technologies now available to civilians like cybernetic limb replacements and Aerodyne Vehicles. However, you would need an aviation license to pilot one." the newscaster explained while showing marketing images provided by Future Tech.

"Dad, look at the cool flying car. When are we getting one?" the child asked.

"I prefer to drive on the road, son. You can get one when you're older." the father replied.

Vince was watching the news after Aiya notified him about the bill's passing.

[That was quick. I didn't think the President would take me so seriously. But, of course, the FDA trials helped a lot.] Vince pondered.

He called Andreas to discuss Hive Mind Heavy Manufacturing.

"Andreas, how has the Hive Mind expansion going?" Vince asked.

"All of the newly ordered manufacturing drones have been produced. We'll complete the Tech Campus expansion in a week, with the gracious help of our friends at SpaceX." Andreas replied.

"I don't know if you've heard the news, but our AVs are federally legal now. So expect plenty of orders from the military and civilian sectors." Vince instructed.

"Don't worry, Vince. Future Tech should be the largest manufacturer in the United States now, other than the large oil companies. In addition, Hudson employed another 10,000 people for maintenance and quality assurance at the Tech Campus." Andreas replied confidently.

"That's a lot of people. How are we training them?" Vince asked.

"The Future Tech Education sub-division in Afghanistan has completely refined our training process. Hudson is already thinking about a training service business to profit from FT Education." Andreas explained.

"I'll talk to Hudson about his idea. Training potential employees will make it easier for us to expand in the future. Good work, Andreas." Vince replied before ending the call.

News spread about the bill, as Future Tech utilized all platforms available to market products other than consumer devices from 2012.

Civilians could only purchase Future Tech laptops and mobile phones. But now, they could also buy aerodyne vehicles and medical services.

These items required more stringent screening of customers, but none of their target audience had any issue with a stricter verification process.

Vince was watching a professionally directed commercial produced by Future Studios on his FT TV.

The video portrayed a typical American family in distress while the mother was calling 911.

Her husband was suffering from cardiac arrest during dinner and started suddenly convulsing.

Within ten minutes, an emergency AV cleared the area outside the house before landing vertically.

An EMS rushed into their house and used a futuristic-looking tool to save him. The family looked relieved as the emergency personnel boarded him on the AV and flew towards the nearest hospital.

The next scene featured Robert Downey Jr. acting as Tony Stark enjoying a ride on a luxurious AV variant. The director showed a few seconds of his first-person view watching the city skyline pass by.

The AV landed on the Avenger's Tower helipad with a few parked Stingrays before the scened ended.

A new scene portrayed Marco's experience in the Battle of Dehdadi and his eventual recovery using Future Med cybernetics and treatments.

The entire commercial was around five minutes in duration and was advertised around the world.

[I can only sell these products in the US for now, but foreigners learning about them and nagging their governments for approval will benefit exports in the future.] Vince pondered.

Major city governments within the United States began ordering millions of dollars worth of AVs in different variants. While rich and famous individuals started choosing AV options on the Future Tech website to purchase.

Large complexes at the Austin Tech Campus got busy with thousands of employees monitoring and maintaining the Hive Mind manufacturing lines.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$50 Billion cash in Future Tech

21,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

March 14, 2013. Future Tech Penthouse.

"Mom, Would you like to visit Melbourne with me?" Vince asked Leah.

"Not this time, son. I've been busy with the NPO expansion and designing some Future Couture dresses for the summer collection." Leah replied honestly.

"That's fine. You can go whenever you want, anyway." Vince stated.

"Why not ask your friends to join you?" Leah replied.

"Kyle, Rick, and Sarah are busy with the final production phase for the new Future Studios game "Everlife Online". And Jessica is working on nanite computer applications," Vince explained.

"You'll be fine. Elon and Christian will be there to accompany you." Leah stated.

"True. I'll be out in a few minutes. See you next week." Vince said before leaving Leah's office.

Aiya arrived in the living room carrying her luggage and Vince's.

They were both escorted to the helipad and took off on a Stingray.

The entourage arrived at the private hangar with three parked modified Dreamliners.

They boarded Vince's personal Dreamliner and flew towards Australia.

It was a long 21-hour flight, yet Vince and his security detail felt like just leaving a hotel.

Vince met up with Christian and Elon, that were also staying at the Crown Towers.

His entourage entered one of the restaurants at the hotel and immediately caught the attention of most of the customers.

"Look, it's those soldiers from the Afghanistan war videos." an Australian customer said to his companion.

"There aren't any wars going on around here. It's probably a Future Tech executive and their security detail. Most likely Vince Dalton himself. The F1 race is this weekend, and he owns a team." the companion replied.

"Thanks for the reassurance. I got scared there for a bit," the Australian man replied.

"I've seen the Future Tech commercials. I'll buy an AV as soon as Australia makes it legal to own." the companion stated swaggeringly.

Bystanders shared similar whispers around the restaurant as Vince sat down at a corner table.

Elon and Christian arrived a few minutes later.

"It's good to see you both. How has Melbourne been treating you?" Vince said as he stood up and shook hands.

"The FIA technical director is keeping me busy with questions and inquiries about the engines, but so far, it's been good," Christian replied as he sat down.

"I was invited to the track and raced around Teslas with Randall Stevens. Good kid, that one." Elon explained.

"I agree—Randall's from Austin, just like me, and he's a quick driver," Vince replied.

"Vince, you better expedite my AV order. I want to fly around Palo Alto and enjoy the city sights as Tony Stark did in the commercial." Elon declared.

"You'll get it soon, Elon. You're luckier than Christian. His company builds the engines, but he can't even legally own one yet." Vince said jokingly.

"Sweden will legalize Future Tech products soon. So I don't have to worry about not owning an AV for longer." Christian replied.

They ordered food, and it arrived a few minutes later.

"Vince, the biosphere project in Afghanistan is progressing at a rapid pace. The dome itself currently produces more than half of the fresh produce sold in Kandahar. I think it's ready for Mars!" Elon exclaimed.

Vince almost choked on his drink before laughing.

"Come on, Elon. Surely you would test the dome on the moon first." Vince replied seriously.

"That's what everyone says. I understand why testing it on the moon is for the best, but Mars, Vince, Mars!" Elon declared with some craziness in his eyes.

[This guy's mental for thinking it would be sunshine and rainbows on Mars.] Vince thought.

"Future Tech will contribute to projects involving transit between Earth and the Moon. But Mars will have to wait." Vince stated honestly.

"The current valuation of SpaceX is around $5 billion based on Future Tech's estimates. So I'll invest $10 billion for just half of your company. We'll explore outer space faster than any of your competitors, I can assure you." Vince added.

"It's a good deal, Elon," Christian interjected.

"I accept the offer. I never planned to sell parts of my company, but I'll make an exception for Future Tech. SpaceX excels in space rockets, but not much else, and I understand that." Elon replied calmly.

"Count me in on the space exploration project. Koenigsegg will help produce the most powerful jet engines ever created." Christian replied excitedly.

They talked about expanding the biosphere project in Kandahar to build more biospheres and further testing and initial steps for the space exploration venture.

Formula 1 Friday practice wasn't captivating enough for the group to watch, and they decided to attend free practice 3, qualifying and the race only.

On Saturday, a fleet of armored SUVs and Dragonflies arrived at the Albert Park Circuit paddock.

Vince, Aiya, Elon, Christian, and FS operators walked towards the entrance gate.

The Albert Park manager saw the dozen people approaching and didn't know what to do.

[Are we being attacked? What's going on?] The lady manager thought.

An older man hollered from within the paddock and welcomed the highly esteemed guests of the event.

"Jean, it's great to see you in good health," Christian said as he shook Jean Todt's hand.

"Likewise, Christian. I can guide you gentlemen towards the Future Tech F1 motorhome. Come with me." Jean stated.

All three decided to explore the Future Tech F1 garages and watch the team operate during free practice 3.

The group met with Kevin Lawson below the motorhome.

"Vince, I thought you were busy and couldn't come," Kevin said in his British accent.

"I overate sushi yesterday and had to sleep it off. So how's the car's performance looking?" Vince asked while the other two were listening.

"The car is faster than any other car in a straight line, thanks primarily to our Koenigsegg engine. Of course, Koenigsegg customer teams like Marussia and Caterham have the same engine, but our car is quicker overall." Kevin explained.

Nico Hulkenberg and Randall Stevens arrived at the garages wearing the Future Tech-themed racing suits and helmets. They greeted the guests and quickly got into the cars as free practice three had already started.

The Future Tech F1 car's liveries prominently featured the Future Tech logo and had smaller ones like Epic, SpaceX, Koenigsegg, and Bitcash.

Martin Brundle and David Croft were discussing the free practice 3 session live on satellite TV in the commentary box.

"Martin, this season already looks completely different from last. Three minor teams have improved performance significantly. And the F1 food chain is now uncertain." David said in his British accent to a microphone.

"Straight-line speed isn't everything, Crofty, but it sure does help," Martin replied in jest.

"We'll be seeing the cars drive out of the pitlane soon. Which one of the teams are you most excited about?" David asked.

"Surely it's the Future Tech car; that's a hot topic right now. I would expect nothing less from a company as technologically advanced as Future Tech." Martin replied honestly.

"Speaking of, Am I seeing this right? Vince Dalton, Elon Musk, and Christian von Koenigsegg are in the Future Tech garage right now. Camera guys, work your magic." David said in surprise.

The broadcast showed a live feed of Vince talking to Kevin while the other two were exploring the garages.

"The net worth in those garages far exceed even some medium-sized countries' yearly GDP," Martin said jokingly.

"It's always great to see innovators enter our sport. They provide fans with more exciting racing because of their contributions." David stated.

Formula 1 fans around the world watched the broadcast with great interest. It was rare to see so many titans of industry in such a small place like a garage.

"Are you buying one of those AVs when it's legal?" David asked.

"Those things look like a death trap. I'd rather drive a manual car on the road. But, you know I'm old-school, David." Martin replied.

"I know. That's why I asked you." David stated jokingly.

Free practice 3 was eventful, with some cars having to take the run-off areas. Future Tech F1 and RedBull Racing set the top times after the session was over.

Qualifying occurred a few hours later. Vince's entourage went upstairs and sat at the private viewing area in the motorhome.

"Who would you bet qualifying in pole position?" Elon asked.

"I think Nico will take pole. Our car is the fastest, and he's a more experienced driver than Randall in F1." Vince replied.

"I bet it'll be Randall. He was bloody quick in the Tesla the other day." Elon replied.

Christian was watching the qualifying joyously, knowing that all engines on the track featured his freevalve technology.

Qualifying started, and each car took turns producing faster and faster laps around Albert Park.

The previous top teams couldn't keep up with Future Tech F1's pace as Nico took pole position and Randall in the second position.

[Randall won from third last year. He can probably win from second too.] So Vince pondered while leaving the track for the night.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$40 Billion cash in Future Tech

21,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

While Vince enjoyed the Formula 1 event in Australia, US-allied countries like Japan, the UK, France, Sweden, and South Korea were working to enact laws allowing new technologies from the US to be imported and owned.

President Lee Myung-bak was discussing the corporate espionage mission with his men.

"We've gathered the best of the best for this mission: expert hackers and highly trained soldiers." one of the men said to Mr. Lee.

[Now that other countries are allowing the purchase of higher-tech products, it's the perfect time to steal data from Future Tech.] Mr. Lee thought.

"Have them take advantage of the secret entrances at the key telecommunication hubs. Go in and out quickly, and don't get caught. And have the hackers penetrate their cyber defenses as cover," Mr. Lee instructed before dismissing the men.

A few hours later, Price received a notification from the FS nethunter team assigned to the East Asia region.

The high priority message stated there was unusual activity in East Asia trying to disrupt the telecommunication hub defenses at multiple sites across the East Asia Future Tech communications network.

Price called Anthony, who was working at the Austin headquarters.

"Something's happening to our communications systems in East Asia. Your mission is to investigate and retaliate." Price instructed.

"I've been on it before you even called, Price. We'll find them." Anthony replied before ending the call.

Price ordered FS operators to deploy at critical communications hubs as reinforcements from the South Korea branch.

A dozen Stingrays with 50 troops each flew towards their destinations from the US Air Force Osan Airbase while the nethunters utilized Future Tech satellites to find their enemies.

Grand Prix Sunday, Albert Park.

The red lights were blinking, counting down the start of the race.

Nico had a great start and pulled away at the front of the pack. Unfortunately, Randall had a poor start as it was his first time launching an F1 car during a race.

He maintained second place while trying to catch up with Nico. The Marussia and Caterham cars were making good time on the straights and started tailing the RedBulls.

An hour and a half later, a few laps before the race ends, Randall tried to overtake Nico through a chicane but couldn't stick the move.

They battled for three straight laps in a race of their own, making the fans go wild in excitement.

They were side by side at the last corner and dragged raced to the finish line.

Nico crossed the line half a second before Randall and won the race.

The German fans in the crowd were chanting while the top three finishers parked the cars.

[What a thrilling first race we just had here in Albert Park. It's a Future Tech one-two finish! We'll hear more from the drivers from the pitlane. To you, Martin." David Croft said to a microphone.

"That was a fantastic start Nico, but an even more electrifying last few laps. What was going through your mind battling your teammate." Martin asked.

"I was fighting for my first win in F1 with my all. I knew Randall was quick after training for months together. He's a respectful driver, and I enjoyed sharing the battle for the win with him." Nico replied.

"Congratulations on the win, Nico," Martin said before starting to interview Randall.

"P2 is an excellent result for your first race in F1. What was in your mind while battling Nico for a potential win?" Martin asked.

"I knew I had the chance of winning the race, but I'll have to work on my race starts from now on. Nevertheless, I'm proud of Nico and the team's success today." Randall replied.

"Enjoy the champagne, Randall," Martin stated.

Sebastian Vettel was the next interviewee. "It was a rough day for RedBull; what went wrong, do you think?" Martin asked.

"The Future Tech cars are much quicker than us, plain and simple. So we'll have to rethink our aerodynamic package to keep in pace with them." Vettel replied.

"P3 isn't the end of the world, Sebastian. I wish you good fortune for the races to come." Martin Brundle said before ending the interview segment.

Nico reveled in his victory at the top of the podium while celebrating with Randall and Kevin.

The stereotypical champagne showered over all the people at the podium box and some in the crowd.

Vince congratulated the team members at the garages and invited Nico, Randall, and Kevin to join his group for dinner at Vue de monde.

"That was a great battle towards the end of the race. I enjoyed it so much that I'll give both of you an Agera SFV. Then, we can go racing at COTA whenever we want!" Christian declared.

"I hope you guys are content with your contract bonuses; it's well deserved," Vince stated.

"The world needs an all-electric racing series. Electric cars are the future." Elon complained.

"I agree regarding electric cars' importance in society, but racing electric vehicles? It doesn't sound good cause there is no sound literally." Vince replied jokingly.

Christian started laughing and joined in the conversation.

"Aerodyne vehicle racing would be fun to watch but incredibly dangerous," Christian stated.

"That's a good idea, but I think it's too early. Maybe in a few years, Christian. Let's focus on perfecting our turbofan engine fuel complex and increasing efficiency first." Vince explained.

"SpaceX will join the advanced fuel complex project. We'll have to invest in fuel research to expedite our mission to the moon." Elon declared.

Nico and Randall were listening in to their conversation and stared at Kevin in shock. Kevin shook his head in agreement as he, too, felt the same way once in an executive meeting.

[These guys are nuts.] So Randall thought while eating his costly meal.

President Lee's men boarded a helicopter bound for an island off the coast of Taiwan. The ten private soldiers and two hackers were tasked with stealing valuable intelligence and installing a back door program without Future Tech knowing.

The island was primarily used as a telecommunication hub for the trans-pacific underwater optical fiber cables originating from Seattle and running through Hawaii, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea.

The helicopter landed five miles from their intended target to avoid being spotted by Dragonflies.

A cave was located near the pre-determined landing zone, which served as an entrance to a hidden pathway underground.

Hyundai Construction and Engineering built the secret pathway while upgrading the communication hub structure earlier in the year.

Mr. Lee determined the most important communication hub and built only one such pathway to minimize exposure to Future Tech monitoring.

The infiltration team walked through the underground passage for five miles before reaching the target.

They hadn't realized the small vibration and acoustic sensors strategically placed within a mile radius of every Future Tech communications center worldwide.

The sensors were the size of a hockey puck and utilized IoT device functionality like communicating with the home base via satellite internet connection.

Anthony and Price designed the sensors specifically to protect and monitor Future Tech's static assets.

A notification appeared on Price's screen stating a vibration anomaly occurred at a hub off the coast of Taiwan.

He diverted two Stingrays to secure the target base and capture the detected intruders.

The infiltration team took half an hour to traverse through the underground pathway and found the entrance into the hub building.

They emerged and found themselves in the maintenance room. The team knew exactly where to find the Data Access Node room because of the blueprints Hyundai CE provided.

It took another few minutes to find and open the security door leading to the Node. Then, two of the hackers took laptops and various tools out of the bags and went to work on disabling the doors.

The 50 troops from the first Stingray that arrived surrounded the building while waiting for reinforcements. Another two Stingrays and 100 troops gathered to overwhelm whatever enemy was waiting.

The vanguard FS operators went straight to where most likely the infiltrators would be, at a Node room.

The two Korean hackers disabled the security door in ten minutes. After that, their group entered the room, and the hackers immediately plugged into the Data Access Node.

After connecting to the Node, they started attempts to bypass the security protocols and defenses. The other men vigilantly guarded the area while the hackers were at work.

The corporate espionage mission was going smoothly until they heard loud footsteps outside the security door.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$40 Billion cash in Future Tech

21,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

Inside the secure Data Access Node room at the basement level of a key communications hub, Two Korean hackers were working on breaking into Future Tech cyber defenses.

They each had modified laptops physically connected to the Node.

"What's taking so long?" one of the armed private soldiers asked the hackers.

"We're running into some mad interference in the Node network. I think we've been compromised. I estimate it will take another 30 minutes for us to penetrate the Node's defenses." one of the hackers replied.

Meanwhile, at the Austin Future Tech Headquarters, Anthony and a team of nethunters were supporting in helping defend the Node remotely.

Anthony opened a channel in the company's secure comlink and called the FS Squad leader, who was in charge of the particular communication hub.

"We're making good progress at stopping their intrusion attempts. However, the enemies are undoubtedly inside the Data Access Node room already. Surround the area, and clear the space. Try not to destroy their computer equipment." Anthony said over the comlink.

"Understood." the squad leader replied before closing the comlink channel.

"We have two Stingrays and 100 operators as reinforcements arriving soon. Have them surround the building when they get here." the squad leader instructed a sub-leader.

He took half of his contingent, around 25 FS operators, and headed towards the Data Access Node room.

"This is taking too long. Can we just grab the Node and escape?" one of the Korean private soldiers asked.

"The Data Access Node here isn't the mobile version. Instead, we're plugged into the console, and the Node is this entire room." the hacker replied.

"We've been here for 15 minutes already. I suggest we abort this mission and head back to the maintenance room. FS are professionals. They could be here any minute now." the soldier declared.

While they were talking, the FS squad team leader was content with his units' positioning around the vicinity of the Node room and ordered a clearing operation.

Six FS operators acted as the vanguard. As soon as the security door opened, they quickly threw flashbang grenades before entering the room.

Their rifles utilized Future Arms' new non-lethal 5.56x45mm ammunition loaded into M4FA rifles.

The original Armalite rifle design the legendary Eugene Stoner introduced has been tried and tested. Future Arms decided to refine the rifles using more sophisticated materials, upping reliability, and designing more ammunition types for situations like hostage rescue non-lethal rounds.

M4FA rifles include variable optics, laser sights, suppressors, and canted red dots as a standard-issue across Future Security.

The six vanguards protected the Dragonflies while taking cover, and the rest of the unit stormed in with confidence.

The Dragonflies were controlled by a nethunter assigned to the FS contingent and disabled the two hacker's laptops using breach protocol.

Their highly trained enemies immediately took cover though two were too late to react and were incapacitated.

The firefight was quick and intense, but the FS upper body armor was too tough for sub-machine gun rounds.

The remaining enemies were flooded by more operators entering the room and drowned under heavy fire.

"Secure the area. Detain the enemies and confiscate all their equipment." The squad leader instructed.

A lightly armored woman in her 30's followed the FS squad leader into the Node room. She was holding a Future Tech laptop and barely armed compared to the others.

"Bring me both of the confiscated laptops. I have work to do." the nethuntress declared.

She plugged her Future Tech laptop into the console before connecting the confiscated ones.

The nethuntress opened a secure comlink channel and connected to Anthony.

"I've already unlocked the confiscated laptops. So let's start the cyber operation," the nethuntress stated.

"Let the games begin," Anthony replied joyously.

Data Access Nodes across East Asia started retracing network channels the confiscated laptops were using while attempting the intrusion.

Nethunters assigned at all Future Security branches from Austin to Kandahar were expected to contribute to the retaliation operation.

After twenty minutes, a major Node located in Seoul was forcibly connected to the Hyundai CE corporate database using the information gained in the confiscated laptops.

Unfortunately, the multi-billion dollar corporation lacked enough cybersecurity defenses to stop the FS nethunters.

The nethunters essentially had free access to the entire Hyundai Group database via the Construction Engineering connection.

Corporate information and secrets from Hyundai Motors, Steel, Capital, Card, Merchant Marine, and other subsidiaries were stolen and routed in different network directions.

Nethunters utilized all the Nodes and Future Tech satellites in the world to cover their tracks after Anthony called off the operation.

[We've already taken enough. Better not be greedy.] So Anthony thought while reading the stolen information.

Price received a notification regarding the detainment and successful retaliatory mission.

"Take the detainees and transfer them to the Kandahar FS branch. We'll interrogate them here." Price instructed the squad leader over the comlink.

Price switched communication channels and reached Anthony.

"What did you guys get?" Price asked.

"Shipping routes, business processes, construction techniques, technology designs, and some interesting information," Anthony replied mischievously.

"President Lee has been busy. We found evidence involving embezzlements, bribery, blackmail, and various other illegal activities." Anthony added.

"Good work. Grant executive directors access to useful information like the designs and business processes. Were there issues with our intrusion operation?" Price asked.

"The Hyundai Group network security defenses were decent but still couldn't detect us. So we spent 30 minutes transferring the information, got out, and left a backdoor." Anthony explained.

"Will leaving the backdoor expose our involvement?" Price asked.

"It's my new toy, Price—a smart nanite backdoor device I had an undercover FS operator install next to the building in Seoul. The nanites travel through the fiber optic lines and can escape towards our FS branch if needed. I call it 'Network Creepers' and classified as top secret." Anthony replied boastfully.

"Store the design and manufacturing process in Future Tech satellites. Of course, the government and other corporations will not be happy if they ever find out about these Creepers. But your nethunters did excellent work. I'll contact Vince for further instruction." Price replied.

"Sure thing. Talk to you later, Price." Anthony said before closing the channel.

[Vince was right to be suspicious. The information we have is enough to shake up the South Korean government.] Price pondered while contacting Vince.

Vince was conversing with Kevin in a restaurant in Melbourne and received a comlink request on his smartwatch.

"Kevin, hold on a minute. Price is calling." Vince stated before taking the call.

Vince started conversing with Price about the recent operation.

"I'm having dinner, Price. What's so important?" Vince asked while eating.

"A group of armed men attempted to raid a Data Access Node off the coast of Taiwan. The situation is under control, and I sent the detainees here to Kandahar. I'm sending you a report and will wait for further instruction after you eat dinner." Price explained before closing the secure channel.

Vince opened the report document file on his smartwatch and skimmed through it.

Elon, Christian, Randall, and Nico, sitting at the table, overheard the call.

"Did something bad happen, Vince?" Christian asked curiously.

"Nothing too serious. Don't worry about it." Vince stated.

[It's pretty serious, and I'll have to call President Obama and ask for his opinion. Foreign affairs aren't Future Tech's responsibility.] Vince pondered as he continued with dinner.

"Elon. Now that I own half of SpaceX, please allow FS operators to secure your headquarters and network. Times are changing, and we can't risk our corporate assets." Vince said.

"I understand. Just keep my security detail to a minimum." Elon replied honestly.

The group finished eating dinner and bade farewells before Vince headed to the airport.

Vince, Aiya, and his security detail boarded the Dreamliner and flew back to Austin.

Vince found President Obama's office number on his smartwatch and connected to a secretary at the White House.

"Good day, madam. Can you please transfer me to the President?" Vince asked nicely.

[Why does a teenager know this number? Mr. President only gives this number out to influential individuals, so I'll just do what he asks.] the secretary thought.

"Please give a minute. The President is in a meeting, and I'll have to go inside the office to notify him. What was your name?" the secretary replied.

"No problem. My name is Vince Dalton," Vince replied amicably.

The secretary walked into the Oval Office and found the President and General Douglas conversing.

"What is it, Maria?" Obama asked curiously.

"I have a Vince Dalton on the line. He wishes to speak with you." Maria replied while giving Obama the phone.

"Thank you, Maria. You can leave now." Obama replied as he took the phone.

"Vince, what's going on? Is my custom AV ready?" Obama asked.

"It should be on the way to DC by now, but I called you for a more important reason, Mr. President," Vince explained.

[If it's important to Vince, this should be interesting.] Obama pondered while listening.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$40 Billion cash in Future Tech

21,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

In the Oval Office, President Obama was listening to Vince over the phone.

"One of our FS detachments caught a group of armed men red-handed attempting to hack into Future Tech," Vince explained.

"Did anyone get hurt? Was it here in the States? Have you identified the people involved?" Obama asked seriously.

"No one was hurt. Thank you for the concern, though the enemies got peppered with non-lethal rounds. It happened off the coast of Taiwan at one of our key Data Access Nodes. Most of them were Korean and sent to Kandahar for interrogation." Vince replied.

"We'll talk about that non-lethal ammunition later—smart move to take them to Afghanistan. I'll have CIA operatives assigned in the area to help with the investigation." Obama replied in agreement.

"There's not much investigating to do. We already know Hyundai CE is behind this. The FS team found a secret underground passage five miles long underneath the building. President Lee offered to build and upgrade Future Tech com stations for a heavily discounted price, and I took the deal in good faith." Vince explained in a soft childish tone.

[Thanks to my future knowledge, I dodged a bullet. No good faith found here.] Vince thought.

"That's a serious accusation, Vince. I'm sorry to hear about your dealings with President Lee; I'll need hard evidence to pursue this. Our alliance with South Korea is utterly essential to our foreign strategy." Obama replied honestly.

"I believe the CIA can persuade the detainees to confess; I trust in my government. Though hypothetically, if Future Tech possesses incriminating information about President Lee's involvement in bribery, tax evasion, and embezzlement, for example. How would you feel about it?" Vince asked vaguely.

[Future Tech did something illegal. I'm sure of it, but information like that is priceless. It wouldn't be challenging to install a new president with it in the right hands.] Obama pondered.

"In this hypothetical situation, I would suggest revealing some information to the CIA operatives for further investigation. But, of course, your law firm will have full support from the White House, and Future Security will receive a $50 billion defense contract. I even have General Douglas here to negotiate the deal." Obama replied with his signature tone.

[Hmm. A puppet South Korean president is worth $50 billion. Fending off Mr. Lee was more profitable than I thought.] Vince pondered.

"Quite generous of you, Mr. President. I'll have Price contact General Douglas regarding the deal. Thank you for your time." Vince said before ending the call.

"Who were you talking to, Mr. President?" the General asked.

"It was Vince Dalton. Write an outline of what the Pentagon needs. I promised him a $50 billion contract; you can get whatever you want." Obama explained.

"That's 10% of our 2013 budget. So what's going on?" General Douglas asked curiously.

"It's a need to know, General. I suggest ordering those AVs. I hear they're perfect for urban battlefields." Obama said before dismissing the General from his office.

[This is going to be a lot of work.] Obama pondered while searching through his political contacts.

In a Dreamliner flying over the Pacific Ocean, Vince was lying down on his king-sized bed.

[I can see why the military-industrial complex makes so much money. The discretionary budget is practically free cash.] Vince thought.

He decided to contact Richard working at the Wall Street branch.

Richard immediately took the call from Vince as soon as his phone rang.

"Vince, what can I do for you?" Richard asked.

"Richard, I suggest shorting the South Korean Won starting tomorrow. Some bad news about Mr. Lee will come to light. Target the Hyundai Group too. Kemp-Jacobs will be suing them soon." Vince instructed before ending the call.

[Something big must've happened.] Richard thought.

He walked out of his office and shouted commands.

"Listen up. We'll be shorting the Won and buying up all of Hyundai's holdings. Set up all your trading tools in preparation for tomorrow." Richard said before working himself.

He called Price to discuss the following steps to be taken.

"Price, leave an evidence trail for the CIA operatives who will be visiting soon. I've struck a deal with the President in exchange for the information. Continue monitoring our assets abroad and contact General Douglas about the $50 billion defense contract." Vince instructed.

Price was surprised to hear how high the value of their work was.

"I'll see it done, Vince. Anthony will contact you about his new invention soon. I hope you don't do anything rash with it." Price replied.

"Thanks for the heads up. Good work out there, Price. You've been a model executive director. I'm glad to have you as an ally." Vince expressed before bidding farewell.

[The young man is too humble.] Price pondered before working on the Pentagon deal.

Vince called Marcia Kemp immediately after his conversation with Price.

Kemp-Jacobs accepted Vince's deal and retained their company name. However, they represented only current clients and mostly served Future Tech.

"Vince, how are you doing?" Marcia asked over the phone.

"I've been well, thank you for asking. Have your South Korean branch prepare a lawsuit against Hyundai CE. They attempted to steal our corporate secrets and were caught red-handed. Start the suit when you hear news about the incident on tv." Vince instructed.

"Understood, Vince. Do you need anything else?" she asked.

"Price will get in touch with you to negotiate a deal with the Pentagon. Just a heads up. Thanks, and talk to you later." Vince stated.

[What's your move, Mr. Lee?] he thought before sleeping for the night.

At the Blue House in Seoul, President Lee was drinking tea during a meeting.

[The team should have gotten back to me already.] Mr. Lee pondered while sipping.

A secretary entered the office and disturbed the conversation.

"President Lee, you need to watch this." the secretary said as she turned on the meeting room's flatscreen TV.

South Korean news reported about the failed hacking attempt on Future Tech's network and the alleged involvement of Hyundai CE, including evidence in the form of confessions from the two hackers and incriminating documents for everyone to see.

One of the men in the room, Senator Won Hyun, took the opportunity to question the President. He already knew Mr. Lee was guilty because President Obama contacted him before the meeting.

"What's the meaning of this, President Lee? Are you trying to dishonor your seat as President?" Won Hyun asked chidingly.

The other members attending the meeting stood up and started leaving.

"Where are you going? I haven't dismissed the meeting yet." Mr. Lee declared in a harsh tone.

"You have more things to worry about than our meeting. Goodbye." Won Hyun said as he left the meeting room.

[What's going on?!] Mr. Lee pondered while preparing an escape plan.

At the Kandahar branch, a CIA operative took over the interrogation and started using his techniques on the detainees.

The war veterans in the group were able to hold on, but the two hackers' resolve was too brittle and confessed.

The hackers negotiated for a plea deal. They would rat out Mr. Lee and divulge more information if they could stay out of prison.

The CIA operative thought about it for a few minutes and consulted with Price.

"Two of them are willing to confess and plead guilty but want out of prison. What should I offer?" the CIA operative asked Price.

"The two hackers? I'll hire them. With limitations and protections, of course.

[I need more talented hackers, and these guys are professionals. I trust Anthony can set them right.] Price thought.

The CIA operative returned to the dark cells and conveyed the offer.

The two happily agreed, in fear of imprisonment, and spilled the beans.

They were involved in an anonymous hacking ring that operated from the dark web. They, in particular, took contracts from politicians, business people, civilians, anyone who had money to spend and performed their services flawlessly.

The ring had no formal name and was involved in organized crime, corporate espionage, and many other illegal activities.

They explained that modern data network security was a joke for most hacker ring members, and it was the first time anyone got caught.

The ring agreed never to attempt hacking into Future Tech because they employed the most sophisticated cyber defense technology globally. Still, the two were Korean hacker buddies who came across a massive contract worth $500 million and took the risk.

The CIA operative was stunned to learn about such crucial information and decided to investigate further.

The remaining detainees would be sent state-side for trial other than the two hackers who joined Future Security under heavy surveillance.

Hyundai CE was slapped with a lawsuit locally and internationally. President Obama held a press conference and publicly chastised Mr. Lee. He gave a rousing speech about defending Americans' rights abroad and explained adapting newer ideas to confront the United States' modern challenges.

The public admonishment made the headline news, and local patriots went on social media to share their feelings.

[Big yikes, dude. If you're gonna do something like this, better not get caught.] a Redditor posted.

[What kind of corporation has enough armed guards to secure such a backwater place like a small island?] another Redditor replied.

[Plenty of corporations do, you idiot. Private military contractors are super typical, but they just don't make the news often. Try searching for Constellis Group and G4S. It's more common than you think.] another Redditor added.

Future Tech was famous worldwide for cutting-edge technology, network communications, and manufacturing. Most people owned a Future Tech device or two and were very familiar with the brand.

It was unusual for many to learn a company similar to Apple and ATT was a formidable force militarily. Of course, everyday folks didn't care much for the war in Afghanistan, but this news involved Future Tech and not Future Security.

Corporations like Vodafone, Nippon TT, and Deutsche Telekom AG immediately took extra precautions in securing their telecommunication stations.

Many were concerned about two people confessing to being expert contract hackers working with a secret shadow organization.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$90 Billion cash in Future Tech

21,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

President Obama's speech calmed most of the populace down from the incident, but some were skeptical. Many were wondering if their data had been compromised by hackers or even the government.

A caucasian man in his early 30s wearing glasses and semi-casual clothes watched the news broadcast on his phone. After quitting the NSA due to his political beliefs, Edward Snowden started working at Booz Allen Hamilton as an infrastructure analyst, otherwise known as a hacker.

[The masses think they're safe from cyber security threats but are none the wiser. Future Tech is innovative in protecting their data, and it seems that more people are learning how dangerous the internet can be.] So Snowden thought after watching the news segment.

He gathered evidence regarding the government's unethical data handling while working at Booz Allen Hamilton, doing the same thing at Dell a few months ago.

His worldview was turned upside down after working for the NSA in many foreign countries. While in Japan, he was tasked to investigate mass surveillance in central Asia and found it all to be true.

Shortly after, the United States started doing the same to Americans using the same techniques the NSA stole.

[The moment is right. I have enough evidence already, and releasing it right now while cyber threats are a hot topic will be perfect for sending my message everywhere.] Snowden pondered.

He started compiling all the evidence he had accrued over the past few years and bought a ticket to Hong Kong. Snowden planned to meet Glenn Greenwald, a journalist from The Guardian away from US soil.

General Douglas called Price regarding the new deal to be ironed out.

"Good day, Price. The President approved $50 billion from our discretionary fund to award Future Security a new contract. I've done some research and plan to order military spec AVs, Stingrays, 5 ASR-1s, Dragonflies, and the training for maintenance and piloting. A small number of the Colt Defense-licensed M4FT rifles for testing in SOCOM and various ammunition types. The President also requests Future Tech to upgrade our current network systems in all foreign US military bases." the General stated.

"That can all be arranged. The training sessions will take place in our facilities around the United States. We got plenty of them after I bought Andrews International." Price replied.

"Good to hear you'll be able to accommodate my men. The contract is good for one year, and I expect you will hold your end of the bargain." General Douglas stated before bidding farewell.

Price then contacted David to update him about the negotiations and called Andreas to place the expedited orders for the military.

Price opened a communication channel, and Anthony connected.

"Your new mission is to lead a nethunter team to upgrade network security at all foreign US military bases. I'll assign an FS detachment for your protection and Hive Mind sets for your use," Price instructed.

"Understood. I better get bonus pay for leaving my comfy office, Price." Anthony replied jokingly.

"You're already paid a million times more than you would at any information technology consulting firm, but fine, your team will get a bonus." Price yielded and ended the call.

He talked walked out of his office to find Alexis, the sub-director for Future Education.

He saw a pretty caucasian woman in her late 20s talking to some local Afghan children. The populace well appreciated the Future Tech training facility at Kandahar, and many men and women found an opportunity here when none could be found before.

Future Education has been testing new teaching tools and methods for adults attempting to get Future Tech certified and children who want to learn the basics.

FT Education bundled unreleased Future Tech products like the AI-processed real-time language translators and Mixed Reality Visors with augmented reality interactive teaching tools.

Farukh learned to pilot aerodyne vehicles so quickly because of his involvement in testing earlier versions.

Jessica and the software systems division implemented an operating system for the visors, while Rick and Sarah designed the user interface. The physical controls on the device were located near the temple of the head, and the visor itself employed eye-tracking.

Kyle and Future Studios developed software tools enabling the creation of custom augmented and virtual environments with the help of Epic through a multi-million dollar partnership contract.

Children can learn to read and write by listening to instructions through earphones and making writing gestures in the air.

Aerodyne pilots can connect a Future Tech laptop or computer to the mixed reality visor and experience crisp quality virtual reality practice simulations and the visor even works as a HUD while piloting.

The Kandahar training facility had plenty of mock aerodyne cockpits where students could learn while in VR.

"How's your work here at Kandahar going?" Price asked Alexis.

"It's been enjoyable teaching and helping the locals and your men. The Future Tech Mixed Reality Visor trial has been an enormous success. And the bonus was nice too." Alexis replied honestly.

"I'm glad you've been thriving in your role as the point-woman of Future Education. For now, I'll be assigning you to train US military troops and pilots to use and maintain Future Tech products. You're currently a sub-division director and have done great work growing our training capabilities. I'll ask Vince to promote your subdivision if you fulfill this mission within the contract year. Price instructed.

Alexis perked up when she heard about the potential promotion.

"Of course, director. I'll accept this mission. Thank you!" Alexis replied joyously.

[I have to take every chance I get. Life was rough when I became a teacher, but it all turned around after using my management degree and finding this random job in Kandahar.] Alexis pondered.

"I have faith in you. However, you've only worked with Future Tech for a few months. A year is enough of a timeframe for Vince to judge Future Education's worth. Therefore, I'll allocate $5 billion from the contract as a budget injection for you. Don't let Vince down."

[That should be enough for the General's men.] Price thought.

Alexis was surprised to hear about money in the billions of dollars suddenly.

"I can assure you we'll train the troops well and create more profitable avenues for the long run," Alexis replied confidently.

She immediately opened the corporate store and ordered enough sets of MVRs based on the outline Price had given her.

Each aerodyne pilot in Kandahar made an average of $200 thousand annually, twice as much as the industry standard, mainly due to the higher risk of death on the battlefield.

The FS Kandahar branch employed 80 stingrays and 80 FAV-1s. And almost all of the pilots were Afghan. So while most other countries were busy legalizing aerodyne vehicles, Kandahar locals were piloting AVs daily when patrolling and performing missions.

Future Tech employed many other experienced and trained locals now that three months had passed since the facilities' founding.

The economy of Kandahar had reached an all-time height due to reasonably high wages shared by many in the community.

American stores and franchises like Walmart that primarily served the SpaceX and Future Tech employees expanded with more branches across the city.

Larger biospheres were in construction to grow more crops and perform further testing for the inevitable mission to the moon, providing cheap labor jobs to anyone interested in helping with Future Tech's research.

The energy was cheap in the region as crude oil was abundant, and Future Tech bought oil directly from the China National Petroleum Corporation, which legally mines oil in Afghanistan.

The Kandahar branch housed a material science unit that refined fuel for use in AVs and Stingrays. Further research and development were invested in creating more efficient versions of the fuel complex and advancing jet fuel technology with SpaceX petroleum engineers.

[This city is a considerable asset that Future Tech has invested billions in over the past few months. I'll have to put more effort into defending the city, especially after what Ashkan had said. Maybe something like the Israeli Iron Dome defense system would be a good option. I may have to talk to Vince about it.] Price pondered while walking back to his office.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$85 Billion cash in Future Tech

21,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

Last week of March 2013, Austin Headquarters Penthouse. A week after the Australian Grand Prix.

Vince was reading updates from public news and his executives on his work laptop.

Edward Snowden released evidence regarding the mass surveillance of all Americans on US soil soon after he arrived in Hong Kong.

The Guardian released a news article citing Snowden's work and described how the NSA utilized large communication companies in tracking metadata of every one of their users. Corporations like Sprint and Verizon were directly involved based on hard evidence Snowden collected throughout the years.

US politicians went public, denouncing Edward Snowden and labeling him as a traitor. A portion of the populace was outraged to hear about the current news and lashed out against the government via social media and rallies. At first, they were already scared of the shadow criminal organization involved in hacking around the world. But now, even their own government was doing the same.

[Protect our privacy! Uphold the constitution!] crowds chanted in front of the White House.

President Obama already had his hands full trying to install Won Hyun as the South Korean President. And now he had to deal with civil unrest too.

[Edward Snowden can wait. We'll catch him eventually, but these protestors, though.] Obama pondered in his office.

Keith Alexander, a military man currently the head of the NSA, walked into the Oval Office for a meeting.

The General specialized in cybersecurity which landed him the job at the NSA and understood the ramifications of the Snowden leak.

"How bad is the situation, General Alexander?" Obama asked seriously.

"Network traffic shows growing negative sentiment about the leak. In addition, we've observed clients from foreign nations adding fuel to the fire and scaring more Americans." Alexander explained.

[I bet the hacker ring is involved in this somehow. They retaliate fast.] Obama thought.

"You're the expert. What do you suggest we do?" Obama asked.

"My team has spent time deliberating a strategy to limit the effect of this issue. All of our conclusions point to Future Tech. They've shown excellent ability in securing the coin and Bitcash network, especially after the corporate espionage attempt making the rounds in the news." Alexander explained truthfully.

"How can they help with this issue? From what I understand, only Future Tech data traffic gets routed through their Nodes." Obama replied in confusion.

"We need a new and trusted telecommunications provider in the United States. So let's offer a deal to Vince Dalton publicly and watch how the masses react. Future Tech has been a model corporation for two years now, paying the highest taxes, creating thousands of high-paying jobs, and providing relief programs." Alexander explained.

"Let's leverage their flawless track record to turn this bad position into a good one." The General added.

[Corporate data security is the future. I'd been planning on founding a new company called IronNet when I retire next year, though this is a great chance to transition into the private sector with Future Tech.] Alexander thought.

"You've convinced me. I'll talk to Vince Dalton after you leave." Obama said before dismissing Keith Alexander.

The President took out his secure phone and found Vince's comlink channel. Future Tech would route the conversation through satellites and Nodes as a standard.

"Vince, good day. I'm not sure if you're aware, but the United States is running into some issues regarding data security. Can you spare some time to talk about it? General Keith Alexander spoke highly of your company and suggested we work together." Obama explained.

[I choose to pay the total 26% S-Corporation tax instead of using tax havens across Swiss and Cayman Islands bank accounts, so the government views Future Tech favorably. Companies like Amazon and FedEx avoid taxes to the point of barely paying any.] Vince pondered.

It was well worth it, and Vince now had the opportunity to enter the public utility industry with the government's backing.

"Of course, Mr. President. I'd be happy to help however I can." Vince responded honestly.

"First, I'd like to ask your opinion about the Snowden Leaks," Obama stated.

"In all due respect, I agree with Edward Snowden's sentiment. However, US citizens have the right to know about things such as data tracking. Even Bitcash and War Online explicitly state in our terms of service that Future Tech requires the storage and tracking of customer data." Vince explained.

"Future Tech tracks data?" Obama asked in surprise.

"Like many other companies and services, we track data of our consumers for their benefit, like not having to enter in long coin wallet codes every time they log in to our service," Vince explained.

"Though we provide security services for Bitcash and War Online accounts of much better quality than our competitors," Vince added.

"Then why are Americans so up and arms about mass surveillance?" Obama asked honestly.

"The biggest mistake the NSA made was not disclosing the mass surveillance. But, unfortunately, the government underestimates how little people care. Consumers understand why their social media data is tracked and don't care much as long as Facebook or Instagram is in working order." Vince explained.

"Protestors are rallying because they weren't made aware. Regular people have no time to ponder if Apple records their FaceTime calls. Instead, they're busy conversing with a loved one across the world. Technology has its drawbacks, but the conveniences it brings will always prevail in the end." Vince added in detail.

[I never really thought of it that way. Of course, I believed Snowden to be a traitor, but it seems like a patriot would be a better label.] Obama pondered in deep thought.

"Vince, you've opened my mind to new ideas that I need to think over. The government will offer an internet utility deal with Future Tech soon. I'll be in touch. Thanks for your time." Obama said before closing the audio channel.

At the same time, the US economy became unstable due to a loss of consumer confidence; the South Korean market was crashing.

Won Hyun led the impeachment process in kicking out President Lee from office. As a result, the Korean Won was crashing in the Foreign Exchange markets, while Future Tech Investments earned enormous sums of money by shorting.

Local South Korean businesses associated with the Hyundai Group were scrutinized by the public, and their stock prices were falling in the stock market.

Richard, the FT investments executive director, worked overtime with his team, capitalizing on the insider information Vince provided them.

Suddenly, Future Tech bought plenty of Korean companies for discounted prices, such as K-POP entertainment businesses experienced in filming movies and shows.

The mass surveillance issue was a hot topic in many different nations like Japan, the UK, South Korea, and the entirety of the European Union.

Governments were deliberating on what to do will all the new information coming out. Some saw weakness within the United States and planned accordingly.

President Lee was rushing around his house, trying to gather everything valuable before his escape.

[I'm seriously fucked. The locals will tear me apart if they find me, though imprisonment is worse, I imagine.] Mr. Lee pondered.

Lee knew he would be summoned to appear in the National Assembly soon but had no other option than running with no destination in mind. No matter how unlikely he'll escape.

While packing, he received a call from an unknown number on his phone.

Mr. Lee was on his last legs and didn't think a call from a random person would make his situation even worse.

"Hello, this is Lee." Mr. Lee stated.

"We know who you are, President Lee. You've compromised our organization by setting up the contract hackers to fail. It was your hubris that brought upon the authorities on us. The CIA and Interpol are working overtime trying to find information about our activities. You have nowhere else to go. Repay your debt to us, and you will be compensated and protected." a garbled voice spoke through the phone.

"And what if I don't comply?" Mr. Lee asked.

"It's pretty obvious what happens next. You will either be imprisoned or extradited to the US, where an even darker prison is waiting." the garbled voice replied.

"What will you have me do?" Mr. Lee asked honestly.

"Take all your wealth, and meet with our extraction team in Seoul. I'll send you the details on this phone you're using." the garbled voice explained.

"Understood. What do I call you?" Mr. Lee asked curiously.

"We are ANARCHY," the garbled voice proclaimed before cutting the connection.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$85 Billion cash in Future Tech

21,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

The first week of April 2013, in an industrial complex near Seoul.

Mr. Lee and his family carried a bag in each hand while waiting for someone to pick them up.

A black SUV rolled up in front of a random warehouse and flashed its headlights.

It was an agreed-upon signal, and the family entered the SUV without saying a word.

"Where are you taking us?" Mr. Lee asked a man wearing tinted glasses sitting at the front passenger seat.

"Our organization is active worldwide, but the boss decided to take you to the north." the mysterious man replied.

"The north? As in North Korea?!" Mr. Lee shouted in reply as his family was frightened by what the man said.

"You will do your part, Mr. Lee. That is the deal. Follow instructions, and you will keep your lives." the man stated in a monotonous tone.

[Maybe imprisonment was a much better option.] Mr. Lee pondered while the vehicle left Seoul.

Across the globe, Vince was testing a beta version of Everlife Online on his office workstation computer. He was controlling a photorealistic human character, driving around a fictional version of Miami City.

Kyle was also playing Everlife Online right next to Vince and wanted some feedback regarding the final beta.

"As you suggested before the development of Everlife Online, Future Studios added more employees to the video games division and is now 5,000 strong. Half of them worked on the single-player Everlife experience, and the rest are polishing the Everlife Online features and maintaining War Online." Kyle explained.

"We also hired the Russo Brothers as you instructed last year as directors for the single-player story. In addition, Robert Downey Jr., Jennifer Lawrence, and Dwayne Johnson did excellent work in our motion capture and voice-over sessions." Kyle added.

"The game itself looks finished. I think Future Studios should rent a large booth in E3 in June to reveal Everlife to the public." Vince replied.

"Excellent idea, Vince! I was so busy with Everlife Online and FT VR that I forgot about those expos. I'll have my team book a booth, for sure." Kyle replied excitedly.

"Leave space for Future Education. I want to tease the new MVR Visor to our passionate gamer fans. They'll go crazy after trying a demo." Vince said jokingly.

Kyle and Vince continued playing a mini-game within Everlife for an hour before Vince had to go back to work.

Vince received a call from Richard, the FT Investments executive director.

He opened the secure comlink channel and accepted Richard's call request.

"Richard, how is the market doing?" Vince asked.

"The South Korean economy is stabilizing, so we've stopped shorting the Won. FT Investments used our $20 billion in cash and turned an impressive profit of $40 billion from shorting and bought plenty of South Korean businesses, including a K-POP entertainment company." Richard explained.

"Good work, Richard. Does the K-POP company only promote music groups?" Vince asked curiously.

"The company owns a few popular K-POP groups but mainly produces Korean dramas for television," Richard replied.

"Have the entertainment company continue producing whatever they were before we acquired them. Invest some cash and have them create Afghan TV shows we can air in Kandahar. Of course, they will have to recruit talented Afghan writers and actors. You can keep the cash for further investments." Vince instructed.

"Understood, Boss," Richard said before closing the comlink channel.

Aiya walked into Vince's penthouse office and found him and Kyle playing Everlife.

"Vince, President Obama is live in a press conference talking about the data security issue," Aiya stated.

"Turn on the TV. I want to watch it." Vince instructed.

Aiya turned on the flatscreen TV and switched the channel to FOX News.

President Obama had a speech prepared for the press conference and started talking.

"Good day, citizens of the United States. Sensitive information has come to light after a series of unfortunate events—first, the corporate espionage attempt, and now the Snowden Leaks. My administration has deliberated for days now and has concluded the importance of mass surveillance in a post 9/11 society. Therefore, from this day onward, any state-sanctioned surveillance shall be disclosed publicly. In addition, all NSA facilities within Verizon, ATT, and other telecommunications companies will retreat to NSA headquarters and operate from there."

"The United States government will officially monitor the use of the public internet, and any citizen retains the freedom to choose whether to use the inconvenient and insecure dark web or the public network. Due to Future Tech's contributions and achievements, the Federal Government has granted them a telecommunication utilities deal to provide secure public internet services to any citizen interested. The NSA will now require a formal process to gather user data from telecommunications companies instead of directly being involved. I hope you understand the importance of tracking online metadata, and I can assure you that none of your lives will change for the worse. The US government will strive to provide a convenient and fulfilling life to all our citizens. And lastly, we've decided to absolve Edward Snowden of his actions and welcome him back to the United States. Thank you all." President Obama said in his signature tone before leaving the press conference.

[I'm surprised they absolved Snowden. However, my conversation with the President did change his views. Things turned out completely different compared to my past life.] Vince pondered.

In China, Edward Snowden was watching the press conference in shock.

[I succeeded?! I was so prepared to live a life on the run, but things turned out for the best. I just wanted people to know and had no intention and ability to stop the government from surveilling the masses.] So Snowden thought while booking a flight back to the United States.

At a random lavish American home, a couple spoke to each other after watching the press conference. The husband earned a fortune by trading coin and Altcoins and was horrified to hear the insecure status of the internet.

"Dear, I'll opt to use Future Tech communication services for our company from now on. We'll have to protect our data, and Future Tech has been competent enough to protect my coin and Bitcash. I'll use their service for my Altcoins too." the husband said.

"I think it's for the best, honey. You've spent your entire life savings in trading War Online digital goods and speculating around Altcoins. I would feel much safer if you secure our information with a trusted company." the wife replied honestly.

Similar conversations were shared across the United States, from website startups who were already using Future Tech products for full-stack development to regular consumers who just wanted peace of mind.

In the office penthouse, Vince finished playing Everlife and focused on further business expansion.

[I've spent most of my capital on telecommunications the past year. $30 billion investing in Future Tech for research, development, installation, and security culminate at this moment. If the attack weren't thwarted, I'd be in a nightmare situation right now. I can't slip.] So Vince pondered while doing the same thing he did before time traveling, kept busy with work.

Billions of dollars worth of satellites, radio masts, and data access nodes began experiencing a surge of users from the United States. As a result, Future Tech had entered into the consumer telecommunications industry valued at half a trillion dollars.

Utilities like water and electricity are highly profitable due to servicing a mass market. Likewise, Future Tech consumer products raked in plenty of cash, but there's only a limited amount of money an average person would spend on a computer or electronic device. Network services, though, require a subscription which increases profitability in the long run.

"Aiya, please call Hudson up to my office," Vince instructed while typing on his laptop.

"As you say, Vince." the butler bot replied softly.

A caucasian man in his 40s entered the room and greeted Vince.

"How may I help, Vince?" Hudson asked courteously.

"Who has contributed most to Future Tech NetServ in the past year? I'll be promoting a new executive director." Vince asked.

"One that comes to mind is a man named Azuma Tetsuo, or just Azuma. He began working at coin Market long before you bought it two years ago. Azuma specializes in physical and virtual network infrastructure and is a core member of Bitcash." Hudson explained.

"Say no more. Bitcash was very important to our early successes, and it seems like Azuma was pivotal in his role. Promote him to executive director of Future Tech NetServ, and have him ready for expansion outside the United States." Vince instructed before dismissing Hudson.

[Those Bitcash guys are OG like Future Studios. I can attribute my early wealth primarily to them.] Vince pondered while he was working.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$55 Billion cash in Future Tech

26,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

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The US government publicly invited Edward Snowden to DC for a press conference and guaranteed his safety. In addition, the administration asked him to provide his motivations in releasing such sensitive information and his opinion regarding the current state of data security.

A caucasian man in his late 20s stepped out of the airplane and admired his home country.

[I never thought I'd see this again.] Snowden reflected while moving towards the arrivals terminal.

Though he landed at LAX, the secret service was already waiting to ensure his safety and escort him to the White House.

In an elevator going up to Vince's office, a pretty woman in her early 30s waited for the door to open. Dr. Sera wanted to meet Vince to discuss Future Med.

"Good to see you, Vince. I wanted to update you on the joint project I've been working on with Leah." Dr. Sera explained.

"I can spare some time, doctor," Vince replied.

"One of the Future Tech NPO programs for assisting the severely wounded US troops stationed in the middle east has been very successful. Previously, most of the soldiers had no chance, considering how little the government cared for them until our program gave them new life." Dr. Sera explained.

"Two thousand IED victims who have lost limbs on the battlefield are now recovering with their new cybernetic replacements at Future Med Hospital. In addition, we treated another three thousand with various common health complications without issue. Future Med services are tried and tested now. I hope you'll consider expanding the division." Dr. Sera added.

"Your work has been excellent, doctor. You saved my mother's life, and I will never forget. I'll invest $10 billion for more employees, facilities, and research projects. Consult with Hudson regarding employment.

Remember my executive order, we sell earlier version products and save the best for ourselves or when our competitors catch up." Vince declared.

"Your orders are paramount, Vince. I'll be using the fund injection wisely." Dr. Sera before stepping out of his office.

National news was covering Edward Snowden's return from Hong Kong. Supportive rallies in DC were allowed to show their collective agreement with Snowden's actions, though violence was prohibited.

After being escorted by the secret service, Edward arrived at the White House and met with President Obama before the press conference started.

"I thought you'd label me as a traitor," Edward said to Obama.

"The administration did, but an intelligent young man made me realize the folly of hiding the mass surveillance program from the public. I think of you now as a hero to the American way of life." Obama replied honestly.

"Who could possibly sway the United States President?" Edward asked curiously.

"I'm sure you've heard of him or have used his company's many cutting-edge technologies. Vince Dalton, the CEO of Future Technologies." Obama replied.

"The teenage warmonger?" Edward asked in surprise.

"Future Security provides tactical and practical support in the war, but it's only one part of his company. It would be best if you were grateful for his contribution to your absolution." Obama explained honestly.

"Indeed," Edward said before both gentlemen proceeded to the press conference.

Edward Snowden told his story in front of the entire United States. He was involved heavily in the mass surveillance of ordinary citizens and finally had enough when James Clapper was questioned and lied under oath about the program.

"I had no intention in attempting to stop mass surveillance and just wanted to reveal the information to the public because everyone had the right to know." Edward declared.

Many Americans across the nation agreed with Snowden's sentiment. The least the government could have done was warn people about the program.

People began feeling a sense of closure and could now move forward from this social issue.

Riots and demonstrations calling for the termination of the mass surveillance program died down and people slowly returned to their day-to-day lives.

[It seems the citizens are finally calming down. The idea of having Snowden address his concerns publicly was genius.] Obama pondered.

A young man was busy outlining project directions for Future Tech's many major and minor divisions at the penthouse office. On the wall was a TV playing the live news coverage from the White House.

Vince watched the press conference and called Aiya into his penthouse office.

"How can I help?" Aiya asked.

"Contact the White House and have them extend an invitation to Edward Snowden. I want to recruit him for NetServ's upcoming project." Vince instructed.

"Oh yeah, and summon Anthony and Azuma for a quick meeting. Thanks, Aiya." Vince added.

"Understood," Aiya replied politely before performing her task.

A few minutes later, two executive directors walked into Vince's office.

One was a young Japanese man in his mid-20s wearing a sleek business suit, and the other was a Filipino-American man in his early-30s dressed in comfortable Future Couture cold-weather attire.

[It does get pretty cold in the server node rooms.] So Vince thought as he sat on the sofa.

"It's an honor to meet with you directly, Vince. First, I want to offer my gratitude for the promotion, Sir." Azuma declared while bowing.

"Call me Vince. You deserve the executive director position. The Bitcash network has yet to fail, and you've been instrumental in that achievement." Vince stated unreservedly.

"And you, Anthony, have surprised me with a dangerously effective new piece of technology, the Network Creepers if I recall correctly," Vince added.

"Thank you for appreciating my work. The Future Security-Cyber division has treated me well, and I think of it as a family now." Anthony replied honestly.

"Future Tech does its best to provide for our loyal contributors; I've made sure of it. I want to discuss a subject related to your new invention." Vince stated sincerely.

"The public internet is becoming more and more dangerous. Future Tech data is secure in your hands, Anthony, but not all network data receives the same treatment."

"Now that NetServ provides satellite and fiber optic internet services, I'd like to add more security measures to protect consumer and commercial data."

"My idea is to embed unique identifiers within any form of media. Pictures, videos, documents, or whatever is shared and accessed across our telecommunications channels."

"The public will be given an option to check which personal unique identifier downloads or distributes a piece of content. For example, some Scandinavian countries allow locals to check how much money their neighbor makes in a year because it's all public information. Still, the target individual receives a notice of anyone who requests their tax income data."

"The system is a give and take of information. We can protect the unsolicited spread of personal pictures or videos and extend this feature to companies to counteract online piracy."

"If a person downloads a pirated copy of a movie, without a legitimate purchase identifier, the software won't run, and the pirate's identifier will be investigated and banned from accessing certain areas of our portion of the internet," Vince explained thoroughly.

"Won't people think these unique tags are encroaching on their rights?" Anthony asked curiously.

"They have no choice. And besides, NetServ will only store all the tagging data for a month and be available to all users, though government agencies will have to request tagging data of citizens formally."

"This project is quite radical, but I can see the positives. The unique tags will make the management of sensitive data much more effortless. We can use the tagging history to pinpoint where an intrusion is originating from, though this will affect the Network Creeper's performance." Anthony replied.

"That is precisely the point. Only we own technology like the Network Creepers, but it won't be forever. The unique tagging system provides our clients with a sense of peace and mind when threatening cyber technology becomes more prevalent." Vince expounded.

"You are wise to think so far ahead, Vince. I'll work together with Azuma to complete this new project smoothly." Anthony remarked.

"We will not fail you, Vince," Azuma added.

"I'll be recruiting a new employee for NetServ, hopefully in a few days. Keep doing good work; you guys will be getting enormous pay raises next year, I'm sure." Vince speculated before dismissing them both from his office.

At the guest wing of the White House, Edward Snowden was enjoying his life as a hero instead of what he initially thought would be a life on the run.

He heard a knock from his door and opened it to find Obama's secretary holding a phone.

"Good day, Mr. Snowden. A representative from Future Tech is on the line wanting to speak with you." Maria explained before handing over the phone.

"Hello, Edward. My name is Hudson, the chief operations manager for Future Technologies. I want to extend an invitation for you to visit Future Tech headquarters and discuss an open position at NetServ." Hudson stated.

[I'll be working in the private sector now, anyway. It won't hurt hearing Future Tech out before making my decision.] Snowden thought.

"Thank you, Hudson. I gladly accept the invitation." he declared.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$45 Billion cash in Future Tech

26,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

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The second week of April 2013, the still air had dried up all the moisture in one of Austin's busy streets. A loud humming noise disturbed the already bustling city sounds as turbofan engines soared through the urban landscape.

The roaring sounds from the engines began to weaken as Vince's private AV landed on a reserved parking space.

The many corporate responsibilities drowning Future Tech executives had also weighed heavily upon a young man in his teens.

Vince Dalton then entered a large building and smelled sweat from the hard work the Fury Fighting Gym members dedicated to their craft.

[Training here once every day when I'm in town is the best escape from the piles of documents in my inbox.] Vince thought.

[Wherever I go, strangers treat me like a prince and shower me with praises. Though, It's the fame and money most of them desire.]

[Here at Tom's gym, everybody acts chill to each other, no matter who you were. Wealth and power weren't concepts my 23-year-old self thought about much. Instead, I usually faced the work and learning grind, and I feel the same way on the gym's fighting mats.] Vince pondered.

Two FS operators wearing brown belts around their traditional jiu-jitsu attire escorted Vince during his daily training session while the rest secured the gym's perimeter.

Vince could hear a metallic clanging noise as an Italian-American man in his late 20s approached him.

"Marco, are you attending the BJJ class this morning?" Vince asked.

"Of course. I'll need to get through my physical rehab before rejoining Price's detachment in Kandahar." Marco replied.

"You've served FS well; there's no need to put yourself at risk again," Vince stated honestly.

"I'm a soldier, Vince. Fighting is what I do, and I won't let a metal leg keep me from doing that." Marco replied.

[Future Tech did everything it could and gave me a second chance. Unlike my brethren suffering every day from PTSD, yet aren't given proper treatment by the military.] Marco pondered.

"You're one of the good guys, Marco. I hope your new top-of-the-line cybernetic leg serves you well." Vince stated sincerely.

"It serves me too well, sometimes. The other members here think my butterfly guard is impossible to pass based on my new leg's strength." Marco jokingly said.

"My butterfly and closed-guards need a bit more refining. Do you mind being my sparring partner for this session?" Vince asked.

"It's my pleasure to help with your training, Vince. Let's get ready before the session starts." Marco replied while walking towards one of the training areas.

The group of four arrived at the BJJ mats room and bowed before entering.

Each member gave Vince a simple nod as a greeting when they watched the group arrive.

Vince found a good friend among the crowd. A young yet large man built like a tank.

"Hey, Tom. I didn't know you were back from Las Vegas. How was your last match? Sorry, I've been too busy with work lately and haven't watched your recent fights." Vince stated.

"It's been quite a while, Vince. My last fight was a brawl and went the distance; fortunately, I won unanimously by decision. Those UFC guys are the real deal." Tom declared.

"Congratulations, Tom. Don't worry too much about the veteran fighters. You're only 18 and undefeated. I bet there's so much more you can learn before becoming champion." Vince stated reassuringly.

"Thanks, Vince. I owe you for starting my fighting career. My wins are your wins, as far as I'm concerned. Do you have a sparring partner already? I want to see how good at grappling you've gotten since the last time we trained together." Tom asked.

"Marco here will be sparring with me, but I'll go a few rounds with Austin's pride himself," Vince said jokingly.

"That's so embarrassing, Vince. Would you please stop calling me Austin's pride? It makes me awkward." Tom replied.

Their conversation abruptly ended as the instructor, Mr. Fury, walked through the door.

"Good to see everyone present for this training session. Partner up, and let's perform some drills, then we'll be sparring afterward." Mr. Fury declared in a stern tone.

Some of the newer students suffered from exhaustion and fatigue from the drills but pushed through it forcibly. It was the same for Vince when he started training, and it was a natural process.

The atmosphere changed as the sparring session started. First, the students formed up and were driven by competitiveness, then the bell rang.

Vince started his sparring session by attempting a double-leg takedown. The same move he used while defending himself from the contract killer almost two years ago.

His actions were much smoother than in the past, but Marco stood his ground and sprawled in defense.

Vince gave up the attempt, as the risk of finishing the move wasn't worth compromising his position.

He sat down on his butt and started to fight in guard. Marco followed and worked his way through Vince's legs to pass his guard.

Ding! The bell rang, signifying the conclusion of a five-minute spar, giving students some time to rest.

"You're guard-play is evolving, Vince. Only a few people in the gym can stop my guard-pass attempts for five minutes." Marco stated.

"Marco, stop going easy on me. I want to feel how much your cybernetic leg improves your techniques." Vince replied.

"Alright then. You can try to pass my guard, and I'll only focus on defense." Marco stated.

The next sparring round began as everyone took their positions on the mat.

Marco immediately sat down and employed his butterfly guard. Next, Vince tried a bullfighter pass and failed as Marco caught his legs, forcing him to the ground instead.

Marco was practically toying with Vince, lifting his entire body with just both his real leg and cybernetic leg. It looked effortless, and Marco didn't even break a sweat.

Before the five minutes was up, Vince tapped from a triangle choke.

"There's no point trying to grapple when you have such a powerful leg. I see why the others think it's cheating." Vince stated.

Tom overheard their conversation while resting and interjected.

"It is cheating, Vince. You can give an amateur a cybernetic implant, and they'll surely win against even the best UFC fighters." Tom stated.

"I agree. Though it's a fake leg, it's leagues better than my old one. I've been training hard to use my military-grade cybernetic implants to their full potential, but not on other people, of course." Marco stated.

"Marco, you're the first-ever person allowed to use these cybernetics. I hope you'd assist other veterans going through the same procedure. Based on your experience, I think you're the perfect candidate for a position in FS in leading other cybernetically-enhanced operators." Vince said.

"That sounds like a lot of responsibility, but I accept. Those people deserve our support, and I'll gladly provide whatever help they need." Marco replied sincerely.

"I appreciate it, Marco. You'll receive the promotion once you've passed the rehab phase of your treatment." Vince declared.

Vince rolled with Tom and Marco during the next few rounds and was sweating bullets after the training session.

Mr. Fury gathered the class in the middle of the mats.

"Everyone, we've been training with Vince for almost two years now. The higher-ranked members have noticed his effort and determination in this martial path. Though he's helped the gym in many ways, it's not why I'm promoting him. I believe he has the potential to get even better. So I congratulate Vince Dalton for his blue-belt promotion!" Mr. Fury declared.

"Good job, Vince." "Keep up the good work." the other members said while Mr. Fury handed Vince his new belt.

"Thank you, Mr. Fury, and thanks, everyone. This gym means a lot to me. I learned how to defend myself here, and this is Future Security's home. I promise to live up to everyone's expectations." Vince stated sincerely.

Tom nudged him and said, "Nice! I'll be able to teach you some of the riskier techniques now that you're a blue belt."

[Billions of dollars can't beat this sense of fulfillment.] Vince pondered while he bowed in front of everyone.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$45 Billion cash in Future Tech

26,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i.e., Instagram)

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Mid-April 2013, the low air pressure above the clouds surrounded a helicopter and its accompanying UAV escort. Mr. Lee and his family sat in their seats uncomfortably. The helicopter provided luxurious amenities, but it was the sense of unknowing and confusion that unnerved them.

The strange and mysterious men who brought them from Seoul never answered any questions about why they had to go to North Korea, of all places.

The air pressure began to rise as their vehicle landed within a remote helipad among the blooming cherry blossom forest. Then, finally, the platform started to move and lowered itself underground.

Mr. Lee felt relieved to see the men in black didn't send them to Pyongyang.

He walked out of the helicopter and was amazed to see a massive underground facility. His family followed and stared in awe, watching manufacturing drones, engineers, and armed security working around the area.

"Is that an aerodyne vehicle?!" Mr. Lee asked in surprise after observing an SUV-sized vehicle hovering towards the helipad.

"We're not here to answer your questions. My companion here will show your family to the living quarters. After that, I'll be taking you to meet someone." the man in the black combat suit stated.

Mr. Lee walked through the facilities' corridor following the mysterious man until arriving in front of a heavily defended area.

The door leading into a lavish office opened for them to enter. A beautiful woman greeted Mr. Lee.

"President Lee, welcome to our North Korea facility. You're pretty lucky to meet the boss directly. He's always in the European branches these days." the woman stated.

She led Mr. Lee deeper into the office and met a caucasian man in his mid-30s. A sleek Future Couture-Esque business suit accentuated his regal demeanor.

"Mr. Lee, I'm glad you made it here in one piece. I heard Senator Won Hyun petitioning for your immediate arrest. But before we begin this little interview, hand over all of Hyundai CE's crucial data. We both know you're only valuable because of the information you have. I will remember your sincerity." the man said in a devilish tone.

[I can't mess with these guys. Especially now that my family is practically prisoners.] So Mr. Lee thought while reaching for a secure hard drive in his pocket.

"Do you have a computer somewhere? The drive requires a master key to be unlocked." Mr. Lee asked.

"Of course, You can use a laptop." the man replied as his secretary brought in a modified and unusual-looking computer.

Mr. Lee plugged in the drive and typed in his master key.

"You're smart enough to comply without further persuasion. You have my gratitude. Hyundai CE employed some data security strategies that made it a bit of a hassle to hack, but it's no issue now. I'll let you ask your questions, and I will answer as best as I can." the man declared.

"Who are you? What is this place? Why did you take us here?" Mr. Lee asked as he jumped on the opportunity to get some explanations.

"My name isn't essential, but most people call me Enigma within the organization. I'm the fifth leader of Digital Anarchy or just Anarchy. This place is our North Korea facility, a significant branch servicing East Asia."

"You've never heard of us, but for a good reason. Our roots trace back to the earliest hackers in the 70's when the first Engima made his fortune by stealing research data from many US and European universities."

"You will be working for Anarchy from now on. Unfortunately, like many of our employees, you and your family are now presumed dead and have no public identities." Enigma stated plainly.

"Why are you telling me all of this? I assume your organization keeps secrets." Mr. Lee asked in confusion.

"We do keep secrets, of course. But I feel like I can be candid with a person in such a sensitive position as you are. So unless you want your family to suffer for your mistakes, I suggest compliance." Engima said with a smile.

Mr. Lee started sweating profusely after being threatened in such a casual way.

"What would you have me do, Enigma?" Mr. Lee asked.

"The organization requires engineering guidance for a current customer order. Anarchy's old-time client, Kim Jong-un, has been satisfied with our long-term partnership with his family but is now in dire need of more weapons. Therefore, you will be joining the engineering team in designing and manufacturing nuclear ballistic missile systems and updating our construction process." Enigma replied.

"You want me to make weapons for the enemy?!" Mr. Lee asked in surprise and anger.

"North Korea is your enemy no longer. Always remember that you don't have a choice anyway. You can try to escape with your family, but it will end disastrously, I assure you." So Enigma stated as a matter of fact.

Mr. Lee chose to move on to a different topic fearing for his family's life.

"If you don't mind me asking, Enigma. How do you have manufacturing drones and aerodyne technology? Future Tech protects their assets like an overbearing father." Mr. Lee asked curiously.

"You're correct in this assumption. But, unfortunately, there has never been a private company of Anarchy's 40 years of history we couldn't hack. Though we do have workarounds." Enigma explained.

"The Scandinavia branch was able to steal the first generation Hive Mind schematics from a Koenigsegg executives' inbox before most of their security measures were in place two years ago. The aerodyne design is the one licensed by Future Tech to Ford for commercial use. The schematic only contained the most basic turbofan engine design, but it's a good start. We had a Ford employee steal the information in an inside job." Enigma explained truthfully.

"How does Anarchy have so many agents to do your bidding?" Mr. Lee asked.

"Most of our members don't even know they're part of Anarchy. The Ford employee sold his insider information on the black market. Hacker groups like Anonymous think their hot stuff, but most don't realize Anarchy is just controlling them from the background. They're happy to provide cybercrime services, and network servers in exchange for specialized equipment only Anarchy can provide."

"The two talented Korean hackers who were detained and confessed to Anarchy's existence is a stain in our glorious history. They will be dealt with soon enough." Enigma declared.

Mr. Lee sat on the sofa with a blank face. His mind was trying to process all the information Enigma courteously shared.

[What have I gotten myself into?!] Mr. Lee pondered while drinking the served tea.

"The organization has plans—big plans to secure our monopoly in selling valuable information to the rich and powerful. Our biggest obstacle right now is Future Tech, and there will be a time of reckoning, but for now, do your task well, and you'll be rewarded in kind."

"Go and share what you've learned with your family. You will live a new life now, a life with more meaning." Enigma instructed before his secretary joined Mr. Lee in leaving his office.

A man in a black combat suit entered the office after a few minutes.

"Enigma, the commercial aerodyne vehicle is working as intended. The information provided by the Ford employee checked out, though the design cost $10 million." the man in black stated.

"That's great to hear. Unfortunately, most of the black market dealers who aren't associated with Anarchy are usually inept and useless. We got lucky in this regard, though I'm not too fond of loose ends. I think the usual is fine."

"I changed my mind. You can do a car accident for now. Anarchy has to lie low before we can match up with our enemies." Enigma instructed.

"Your will is my command, Enigma." the man said before leaving the office.

[Finally, Anarchy has an enemy who's worth our time and effort.] So Enigma pondered while working on upgrading Anarchy's manufacturing drones.

A few hours later, at a random highway in Michigan, a man was driving to the Ford Motor Company offices.

[I can't believe it. I'm so rich now. What should I do with $10 million? I don't want to go back to work, but it would be suspicious if I didn't.] the Ford employee thought while behind the wheel.

He was too enraptured in the thought of being rich and didn't realize the car's ECU was acting weird. Gasoline slowly leaked out of the gas tank while the car's computer emptied the brake fluid.

The moment the man turned toward the highway exit, he couldn't slow down enough and crashed into the concrete barrier. He survived the head-on collision but was engulfed in flames from all the gasoline spread around the car.

The fire department arrived 10 minutes later to find a scorched vehicle and a man burnt to crisp.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$45 Billion cash in Future Tech

26,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

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A clear blue sky glowed above the City of Austin a day after Vince's belt promotion.

Edward Snowden had just landed at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on one of Future Tech's Dreamliners. Hudson extended the best hospitality for Snowden's visit, including an armed FS squad escort.

Instead of the usual armored black SUVs, One mil-spec Stingray and a civilian AV were waiting and ready to transport Snowden directly to the Future Tech Headquarters.

A man in his early 40's wearing a Future Couture business suit was waiting to welcome the company's guest.

"Edward, thank you for accepting our invitation. How was the flight from DC?" Hudson asked.

"The Dreamliner made the flight feel like a hotel in the sky and was quite pleasant, unlike my international flight from Hong Kong to DC a week ago," Snowden replied.

"Good to hear. We'll be taking a company CAV from here. Hop on." Hudson instructed as he entered the hover vehicle.

The civilian AV or CAV is the first commercial version of the turbofan aerodyne vehicles manufactured by Future Tech.

It was smaller and less armored than the military-oriented FAV-1 but was more agile, quicker and featured luxurious comforts like better seats and an exquisite exterior/interior design.

A Future Tech CAV with all the bells and whistles cost around $4 million each, significantly cheaper than the upcoming Koenigsegg Flyga, an exotic/hyper AV costing around $7 million.

[Even though I've seen these flying vehicles on TV before, it's still surreal hovering around the busy city streets in one of them.] So Snowden pondered while the CAV and Stingray approached Future Tech Headquarters.

They were hovering higher than most skyscrapers, which gave the passengers a bird's eye view of the Austin Metropolis.

Edward stared in awe after seeing the massive technology campus complex located 30 miles away from the city center.

He watched autonomous drones patrolling the district, an AI-driven public transportation system, and the large manufacturing and research complexes scattered around.

[This is the most futuristic thing I've ever seen. Even the supercomputer buildings in Japan aren't as impressive as that city in and of itself.] So Edward thought.

"How many people work at the Future Tech campus?" Edward asked curiously.

"As the head of corporate staff, I'm the best person to ask about this topic," Hudson stated confidently.

"After two years of construction and expansion, the campus currently employs a little over 50,000 people of varying skill and specialty who are primarily working with Hive Mind manufacturing and some of the less sensitive research projects. The rest of the crucial corporate staff of 25,000 people work at the downtown headquarters and its surrounding buildings."

"Future Tech employs over 30,000 people across the different branches within the United States and foreign nations like Afghanistan and South Korea. Future Tech has a little over 105,000 employees right now and is still growing. I didn't count the Future Security operators because Price is in charge of the military workforce." Hudson explained proudly.

"Your company was crazy to expand so fast since its inception two years ago. Is Vince Dalton truly such an extraordinary genius?" Edward asked.

"Vince is a smart kid; that indeed is true. But the reason for his success is because of his foresight and willingness to rely on his staff. He understands that even though he's a prodigy in network architecture and systems programming, he's only one person, and teamwork builds success."

"Vince is always optimistic and glad to help anyone who has potential. He keeps his employees happy by investing all of his cash into projects, programs, and funds. None of our researchers feel like they can achieve the same success working for different companies." Hudson replied.

"I've heard stories of Vince's first business ventures in mobile games. I would have never thought he'd be a technological pioneer of his generation." Snowden stated.

[Though his involvement in the Afghanistan War is unfortunate, it seems like Vince gives more life and prosperity to everyone around him. Maybe he isn't as bad as I first thought.] Snowden pondered.

"Speaking of his mobile game business. The first people who started working for Vince were his four school friends. All of them are currently high-ranking employees at Future Tech. Vince mentored and directed them on their development path before the release of War Online."

"On a side note, Vince sponsored and endorsed Tom Fury, one of his school seniors, who'll be surely fighting for the UFC championship next year. He even gave a local Austinian named Randall Stevens a seat in the fastest Formula 1 car on the 2013 grid."

"Vince loves supporting his friends, employees, and strangers with as much as he can, so please think carefully about this job opportunity during the meeting," Hudson asked sincerely.

"Of course, Hudson. Especially considering how well Future Tech has treated me since leaving DC." Snowden replied honestly.

The CAV and Stingray escort both landed on the headquarters helipad a few minutes later.

Aiya was waiting for their arrival and welcomed Edward to Future Tech.

"I hope you had a pleasant trip, Mr. Snowden. My name is Aiya. Please follow me to Vince's penthouse." The butler bot stated.

[WTF?! It's a talking humanoid robot.] Snowden thought in surprise.

"Thank you for having me. May I know what exactly you're supposed to be?" Snowden asked.

"I am Vince's butler bot, the first and only artificial general intelligent android. Further information is classified, unfortunately. Most people don't realize I'm not human, but you have a sharper eye than most." Aiya replied politely.

"Thank you for your honesty, Aiya. Please lead the way." Edward stated.

Hudson, Edward, and Aiya walked through the futuristic corridors within the headquarters and reached the penthouse entrance.

A young 15-year-old CEO and a Japanese executive director were waiting in the living room.

"Mr. Snowden, I hope you've been treated well. Take a seat." Vince said while shaking Edwards's hand.

"This gentleman right here is Azuma, the head of NetServ," Vince stated.

They both greeted each other politely and sat back down on the sofas.

"This is quite an impressive headquarters, Mr. Dalton," Edward stated while Aiya served tea and snacks on the table.

"Please, call me Vince. Thank you, I do get that comment a lot these days." Vince replied sincerely.

"Call me Edward then. But, first, I'd like to thank you for persuading the President to absolve me for what I did." Snowden stated honestly.

"Don't mention it. I agree with your actions because civilians deserve to know the truth. Corporations mine consumer data every second, but we still have to conform to government standards." Vince stated.

"Thank you, nonetheless. I thought I'd be living in a remote forest for the rest of my life and instead become someone who made a difference in the world." Edward stated.

"You can continue making a difference here, at Future Tech. We treat our staff well, and I have a perfect NetServ project that requires your expertise. How much of an annual salary would a man of your talents be?" Vince asked.

[Is this kid handing over a blank cheque to me? Does he think that money can buy anything?] Edward thought.

"$500 thousand a year," Edward stated plainly.

"I sincerely offer you a program director position at Future Tech NetServ for an annual starting salary of $1 million. The paperwork is ready whenever you are." Vince replied.

[Starting at $1 million?! It does sound like he values my skills and experience. Well, Future Tech will be better than any other company, anyway.] Edward pondered.

"Before I answer, I'd like to ask why you're going to such lengths just for hiring me," Edward asked curiously.

"Honestly, your story reminds me of my life in a way. You were talented as a young man and slowly climbed the ranks of the NSA, using security clearance access provided by your parents. Then, unfortunately, you swam too deep and had to make a life-changing decision and stick to it."

"People praise me due to my success, but I find myself drowning in corporate affairs every day. I'm lucky enough to be able to entrust duties to capable and responsible people, but sadly, you didn't have that luxury."

"I want to allow you to work in our environment, one that supports each member in achieving greatness," Vince explained.

"I can see how you persuaded President Obama. Do you give compelling speeches like this all the time?" Edward asked jokingly.

"I take your answer as a yes, then. Aiya, please prepare the contract." Vince said before drinking his tea.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$45 Billion cash in Future Tech

105,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education, SpaceX)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

"What is this mysterious NetServ project you want me to work on?" Edward asked.

"Augmented Cyberspace. I've worked on this concept with many Future Tech divisions, sub-divisions, and even a company partner, Epic Games."

"You'll be working under Azuma in refining this new way of interacting with data and network traffic. 2013 is a massive year for Future Tech because of the plethora of new software and hardware we'll be selling in Q3 of this year."

"One of the devices we'll be publicly announcing at E3 is the Hypervisor," Vince said while Aiya brought in a laptop and a device the size of a headband.

"The Hypervisor is the latest generation MVR visor developed and tested at Kandahar for education and training purposes. Future Tech has added many features since the start of the MVR program a year ago. Still, you'll be focusing on a classified project developing the Augmented Cyberspace application with NetServ." Vince explained.

"I vaguely understand what you're saying, but I'll do my best, whatever it may be," Edward replied proudly.

"Don't worry. NetServ already has a demo for reference. Wear the Hypervisor over your eyes, and you'll understand." Vince instructed.

Edward wore the device over his face and expected to see pitch darkness but was surprised to see his surroundings vividly.

"There's a small high-resolution camera that provides the user with clear peripheral vision and light-compensation to see in the dark. Those features don't matter too much, so let's move on to activating the ACS demonstration. Move your hands in your field of view, and the operating system interface should show one application available for use." Vince explained.

Edward did just that, and a context menu appeared clearly in front of his view.

"Amazing! I've never heard of an Augmented Reality device capable of this much detail and graphical fidelity." Edward said out loud.

"The AR mode of the Hypervisor is the least demanding video mode, not requiring any extra hardware, unlike the VR mode, which does," Azuma interjected.

"Now tap the program thumbnail you see in the middle of your field of view, and it should turn on ACS," Vince instructed.

The moment Edward enabled ACS mode, his surroundings suddenly changed and showed network traffic around the room visually and in real-time via colored dots and lines.

"What you're seeing is data flow around a radius of 100 meters, which is the current limit. The new project aims to visualize all network and data traffic within NetServ using unique tags to categorize different data types. You will also see any network intrusions and violations at a glance instead of trying to find a needle in a haystack." Vince explained.

"This technology is already advanced and working; what do you need me for?" Edward asked.

"You'll be working with Azuma in creating the ACS highways connecting traditional telecommunications systems like fiber optic, satellite, and cellular, in conjunction with proprietary NetServ network services. Unfortunately, one hundred meters is too small for my nethunters in Future Security. The ACS will eventually enable our nethunters to patrol cyberspace for dangerous unique tags without a range limit." Vince stated.

"Network infrastructure is my forte. I can already imagine the possibilities of the ACS, Vince. So I'm on board 100%." Edward replied enthusiastically.

"I'm glad to hear it. You'll be working closely with Azuma and the FS nethunter director, Anthony. Feel free to choose any home near the area, and we'll pay for your move. Future Tech recently started providing apartments and houses if you prefer." Vince explained.

[The Hyundai CE trade secrets worked like a charm. Now, construction projects are a joke to Andreas and the Hive Mind division.] Vince pondered.

"I'll take a Future Tech-house, then. I'm excited to see what kind of features it comes with." Edward replied jokingly.

"You can continue the day discussing how to use the new Future Tech API and ideas in updating the ACS with Azuma. Welcome to the family." Vince declared before shaking Edward's hand.

Azuma and Edward left the penthouse living room and headed to the NetServ building across the street.

Vince was busy working with Future Studios for the final touches to release their first triple-a game, Everlife, and its online component. He instructed Future Studios to continue debugging for two more months to ensure a smooth and bug-free experience.

Vince received a comlink request from Tim Sweeney, the CEO of Epic Games, a long-term partner of Future Tech.

"Tim, what a surprise. I barely see you at our weekly meetings. It's been a while." Vince said over the comlink channel.

"You know how busy I was in updating the Unreal Engine the past two years. And whenever I do work with Future Tech, It's mainly with Kyle, Jessica, Rick, Sarah, and the rest of Future Studios. So where have you been all this time?" Tim jokingly asked.

"Alright. You win this time. What did you call me for?" Vince stated.

"Have you tested the latest stable version of Unreal Engine? All of the technologies we've developed together, like FT Physics Simulation and Global Illumination for the engine, are practically finished. Except for that Augmented Cyberspace thing you wanted so much to include." Tim Sweeney explained.

"The ACS program is in good hands now. It shouldn't be long until it's in working condition." Vince replied.

"Nonetheless, this new version of Unreal Engine is a milestone achievement! Without FT AI and FT Micro Devices, I would have needed to sell half of my company to Tencent this year. Thank you for your continued financial and engineering support!" Tim said.

[I was ready to sell half of Epic to Vince based on how quick our progress was, but I wonder why he never asked to buy us out.] Tim pondered.

"Don't mention it, Tim. Even though we've never met in person, you and your company have helped Future Tech since the start of War Online's development. Likewise, my company and friends wouldn't have flourished without Epic Games." Vince stated sincerely.

"Vince, you've spent $5 billion on our Unreal Engine collaboration just in the past year. That's enough money to buy Epic Games five times over." Tim replied.

"Yes, but think about all of our physicists, engineers, software developers, designers, and more who were able to hone their craft during this project. I spend money to nurture technology and ourselves. There's no better way to burn cash than this." Vince replied honestly.

"That is indeed true. I've heard from Elon that SpaceX and Tesla significantly optimized their designing pipeline using the new Unreal Engine feature set. Even your friends have grown to become talented developers and artists in their own right." Mr. Sweeney stated.

"When will you publically unveil Epic's new game engine?" Vince asked.

"During E3 in June, of course. I can't announce the new engine without Future Tech, and I heard you paid a hefty $20 million for a Future Tech booth. I expect nothing less, considering you'd be unveiling a game console, the Hypervisor, and Everlife." Tim said.

"Most of our executive directors have been busy the past year in preparation for our 2013 product line-up. However, those three are just the tip of the iceberg. The new Unreal Engine is designed explicitly for Future Tech components, which we'll sell in Q3 of this year." Vince explained.

"You got me excited all of a sudden, Vince. I'll wait until your E3 presentation, then. But in the meantime, Epic Games will finish developing the Future Education modules and user documentation. And ask Kyle to update me on Everlife's final production phase." Tim said before bidding farewell.

Vince instructed Aiya to have Kyle meet him at his office within the hour.

Kyle arrived fifteen minutes later and sat down on one of the comfortable sofas.

"Tim is asking when Future Studios will be through the final production phase of Everlife and online mode. I think he's willing to share Epic devs if we need the help." Vince stated.

"Without work crunch, the debugging and optimization will be finished by the end of May. Though we have 10,000 of our 15,000 game devs working on this project, Everlife single-player is still an enormous and ambitious video game. I'll welcome any assistance Tim can provide. If I learned anything from him in the past years, a successful product is a team effort." Kyle replied.

"I'm glad you learned at least one thing from spending time training with the Epic Games developers. Future Studios will release the game on June 15, with an early E3 demo in our booth from June 11 to 13. I trust your timeframe estimation, but please don't overwork the devs even if we have to delay the release." Vince instructed.

"Don't worry, Vince; We don't do that to family. Everyone is so proud of their work this time around. War Online was a massive success in the competitive and casual gaming industry, but Everlife is our first triple-a game. Even the new GTA 5 or The Last of Us doesn't look half as visually appealing as our game." Kyle said with jittery excitement.

"Good. As the technical director of Future Studios, you'll be presenting Everlife and the new Unreal Engine with Tim Sweeney at our E3 press conference. You've earned it." Vince instructed.

"Really? I don't know if I can pull it off without a hitch, but I'll do my best!" Kyle replied honestly.

[That's the mentality I respect the most.] So Vince thought while joking around with his friend.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$40 Billion cash in Future Tech

105,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education, SpaceX)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i.e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

At the penthouse office, Vince and Kyle discussed Future Studio's next steps after Everlife.

"I'll have to draft an outline for a new game project for Future Studios to work on after Everlife's release. Do you have any suggestions in mind?" Kyle asked before sipping a cold beverage Aiya recently served.

"Now that we'll be selling the Hypervisor commercially, I recommended developing virtual experiences using the newest version of Unreal Engine. We created Everlife to be compatible with current-generation devices, but AR and VR would be the obvious next step with our new games." Vince replied.

"True. We have more tools in our arsenal now. Traditional video games are fun, but an entirely virtual experience is in a different league—too bad the FDA hasn't approved Dr. Sera's deep-dive system yet." Kyle stated.

"Don't worry. The current version of Unreal Engine is fully compatible with the deep-dive system, so you can still start creating an outline for the new game in the meantime." Vince replied.

"While you're here, let me call the others for their E3 presentation assignments. We haven't been in the same room in quite a while." Vince added.

"Aiya, please call Jessica, Rick, and Sarah to my office for a meeting. Kyle and I will be playing a bit of Everlife while waiting. No rush." Vince instructed over a private comlink channel.

"Understood," Aiya replied.

The blonde twins arrived at Vince's office after thirty minutes, during which both he and Kyle were 'testing' their new game.

"Hey, I see you guys are playing the latest and greatest of Future Studios. Did Everlife meet your expectations?" Rick asked while finding a comfortable sofa to sit on.

"The photorealistic aesthetic and graphical fidelity are far better than our previous work in War Online. People will go crazy after playing Everlife. How's work been going?" Vince asked.

"We've been focusing on the Hypervisor's Augmented Reality mode and the cyberspace module. It's so trippy trying to visualize data traffic in 3D. Kind of like that movie, Tron." Sarah interjected.

"When do you guys think the graphical user interface for both the AR and VR functionality in the Hypervisor be ready for sale?" Kyle asked curiously.

"The Infinity Operating System GUI is in the refining phase and should take a month at most until market readiness. OS versions for PCs, Mobile devices, and the new smart devices took half of the development time the past year, but most of our efforts were collaborating with Future Education on the Hypervisor. We're still running into scaling issues in VR, but Mr. Sweeney notified us regarding the new Unreal Engine features that should be a quick fix." Rick explained.

A young Korean-American girl arrived at the penthouse office mid-conversation, while Aiya served drinks and snacks for the group of youngins.

"Jessica, good to see you. We're just discussing the current state of the Infinity OS. Do you have any input regarding that?" Vince asked.

"Patel, Morgan, and my sub-division have put our blood, sweat, and tears designing and developing the Infinity API and OS. Neither CUDA nor OpenCL is half as effective as our Infinity Cores. Our Infinity Architecture crushes the competition in single-threaded, multi-threaded, and 3D/Ray-Tracing computational workloads. Though you wouldn't know much about our project since you barely showed your face during production, Vince." Jessica stated.

"Come on, Jessica. I know enough about the new Infinity ecosystem. You know I've been busy with Azuma ironing out NetServ's current business and expansion plans." Vince replied.

"I'm just joking with you, Vince. You've been through a lot this year, and the company has flourished because of it." Jessica stated honestly.

"We've all accomplished so much these past two years, and I'm lucky to have my friends in Future Tech. Kyle will present Everlife during our E3 presentation, and I'll have Jessica join Morgan for the Infinity section. Rick and Sarah are responsible for the Hypervisor demonstration. I want the world to know who started Future Tech on such a momentous occasion." Vince explained sincerely.

"Of course, we'll save some of the spotlights for Patel and other executive directors," Vince added.

"Thank you, Vince. Future Tech changed our entire lives, and I pride myself on our work. We're lucky to have so many intelligent and caring colleagues to mentor us in our chosen paths. I wouldn't trade my time here for a Harvard graduation certificate." Jessica replied.

"Same here. Creating basic game menus and assets for Wingin' Chicken was fun at the time, and I wouldn't have imagined designing an entire virtual user interface for cutting-edge technology. Working for you was the best decision in my life." Sarah interjected.

"And we get to play War Online anytime we want. People don't dare to give us any shit about it, though we're only 15 years old, so it's understandable." Rick stated jokingly.

"I appreciate how much effort you guys have exerted in the past two years, but we have more than 100,000 employees now—work at your own pace, especially you, Kyle. So I'll have you appoint an executive director for Future Studios because the responsibility is too much of a burden for you right now." Vince instructed.

"C'mon, man. Why are you demoting me?" Kyle asked.

"I'm not, Kyle. War Online and Everlife are great products, but you shouldn't lead Future Studios by yourself." Vince explained.

"Alright, I'll appoint someone, but it has to be Mr. Sweeney. He's been a great mentor to me for two years now, even if we haven't met in person yet." Kyle replied.

"That would be a great idea if he were a Future Tech employee, which he isn't." Vince retorted.

"Future Tech still has a bit of liquidity until Q3 of 2013. The Epic engineers deserve a payday, and I know you can buy Epic Games right now." Kyle stated.

"It's not that easy, Kyle. Would Tim even sell his company to me if I asked? I'm not sure if that's the case." Vince explained.

"Give me a number, and I'll ask Mr. Sweeney for you." Kyle declared.

"$10 billion is the highest I'll pay for Epic Games. If you manage to sway Tim, talk to David for the contract." Vince said.

"You don't give Future Tech enough credit, Vince. We're advancing and innovating in so many industries, and everyone wants to find out what's next. Tesla stock alone doubled in value since you bought half of SpaceX." Jessica added.

"Yeah, but we've also attracted bad actors trying to compromise our success. For example, have you guys heard of the Data Access Node incident that happened off the coast of Taiwan?" Vince asked.

"We saw it on the news, but the reporters said nothing too awful happened," Sarah replied.

"Two of their hackers almost penetrated the Future Tech telecom system, which would have destroyed this company. We got lucky, but it won't be the first time enemies try to take what we've built." Vince explained.

"Most people only know of the regular data breaches the two confessed about, but I know classified information regarding their organization. The CIA and Interpol are investigating a group called Anarchy. They haven't found anything yet, which makes sense, considering Anarchy is a hacker organization. I just wanted to warn you guys." Vince added.

"Sounds super sketchy, Vince. Do you think they'll attack Future Tech anytime soon?" Kyle asked curiously.

"I honestly have no idea. It's best to trust Price and Anthony regarding our security. There's a reason why I've invested so much money on physical and cyber security projects." Vince stated.

"Don't be such a downer, Vince. Price will notify us if anything wrong happens. Let's talk about E3 and the upcoming press conference. Isn't it surreal to present our products at E3 when we could only watch the show online two years ago?" Jessica said.

"Yeah, It was incredible watching Bethesda's Skyrim trailer in 2011 and Watch Dogs from Ubisoft in 2012 looked so good!" Rick stated.

[Unfortunately, Watch Dogs won't look as pretty as the trailer.] Vince pondered.

"Our show will be much more exciting this year. We'll even have Robert Downey Jr., Jennifer Lawrence, and Dwayne Johnson for the Everlife convention." Vince stated.

"They performed voice acting and motion capture at the LA Future Studios branch for the single-player story. I only met them via video conference, but I'll be looking forward to meeting the Rock in person." Kyle explained.

"We'll meet Katniss Everdeen?!" Jessica and Sarah asked in unison.

"Don't forget Tony Stark! The Avengers was the best movie last year." Rick stated.

"The E3 convention meeting is part of their contract. So don't forget to take some pictures as a souvenir." Vince said.

"It's been fun catching up with guys. Let's take the rest of the day off and have some more fun. We deserve it." Vince added.

"Hell yeah! Chicken wings or sushi?" Jessica asked.

"I vote spicy chicken wings!" Kyle announced.

[My friends never changed.] Vince pondered happily.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$30 Billion cash in Future Tech

105,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education, SpaceX)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

Report chapter Comments

While Vince and his friends were hanging out at the penthouse, a pretty lady in her late 20s arrived at her home in Brooklyn, New York.

Director Price assigned an FS squad of seven operators with Dragonflies to escort Alexis after leaving Kandahar due to Future Education duties.

Her entourage took one of the new FT-05 Super Galaxy transport aircraft manufactured at the Austin tech campus' gigafactory. The large factory was a collaborative effort between Elon and Andreas, allowing Future Tech to utilize the Hive Mind manufacturing process on a physically massive scale.

Vince made it standard for every junior or senior director to be provided a personal corporate-spec AV when traveling around urban environments where AVs were legal.

It had enough space and comfortable seating for the passengers and security escort equipment.

The autonomous landing system assisted the AV pilot and touched down in front of a residential building in Brooklyn.

Though aerodyne vehicles were a current hot topic based on all of the commercials from Ford and other licensed manufacturers, not many civilians have actually seen one in person.

"Look, mama, that flying car is even bigger than the one we watched on TV." the child said to his mother.

[It's landing next to our building. Should I go and check what's going on?] the mother thought.

"Big sis, Alexis! It's sister Alexis walking out of the flying car, mom!" the child declared.

Alexis saw her mother and brother watching her arrival from their apartment window. Then, she excitedly disembarked from the CAV to greet her family after spending months at Kandahar.

"Sorry about not calling too often, mom. My new job keeps me busy, but I feel like it's worth it. I was lucky to get hired in an educational management position after quitting my teaching job last year." Alexis said to her mother.

"Why did you have to go to Afghanistan of all places? You made me and your little brother worried sick." the mother replied.

"Future Tech needed a manager for their new educational sub-division. Director Price from Future Security promoted me to assistant director for the recent success of this amazing teaching visor tool and promised another promotion after we train the US military troops this year." Alexis explained.

"I didn't know you worked for such a big company like Future Tech. You only mentioned Future Education before you left and flew away." the mother replied in annoyance.

"Even I didn't know about Future Tech's involvement when I took the job. But don't worry about that now. I'll be moving to Austin to work at the headquarters, and I'd like you both to join me." Alexis stated proudly.

"Isn't that going to be expensive, Alexis? You know we haven't had much since I got too old to work a few years ago." the mother said sadly.

"Our big boss is quite the generous CEO. He has an entire department dedicated to employee welfare. We'll be moving to Austin fully paid by Vince Dalton himself." Alexis explained.

[Of course, it's mainly because I'm an assistant director for Future Education, but still.] Alexis pondered.

"I'm so proud of you, Alexis. I knew you'd be able to make something of yourself after teaching university for a few years. So when do we leave?" her mother asked.

It was the first week of May 2013, APL fans were busy watching the last few games of the season on Instagram Live or the many other esports outlets.

"Thank you for watching Prime Alliance vs. Team Vapor here on Instagram! Before we end our broadcast, we'd like to show our viewers a new teaser trailer for Future Studios' upcoming game, Everlife. Please enjoy." the show host stated.

A photorealistic sequence of events featuring the main character, known as the 'mechanic' saving his buyer, played by Dwayne Johnson, from an ambush. The trailer portrayed themes of violence, greed, deceit, and cunning. In addition, some other cast members appeared as quick cameos throughout the trailer, which pulled people's attention even more.

Everlife showed elements of GTA 5, Watch Dogs, and even the driving experience of Gran Turismo 6.

"No way they rendered that trailer in-game, right?" one of the viewers asked his friend.

"The ending credits mentioned a new game console, dude. I was thinking of buying a next-gen console from Sony or Microsoft, but this game trailer got me so hyped!" his friend replied.

"Thank you for watching the trailer for Everlife! Don't forget to tune in during E3 2013 for Future Tech's new product announcement. We'll see each other again this weekend for the Sunday APL Brawl! So I'm signing out." the host said before ending the broadcast.

"The E3 convention is 30 minutes away from us. We should buy tickets and attend this year! I feel like it would be epic." one of the viewers said.

"Let's bring our recording equipment. Then, we might be able to film content for our video channel." his friend replied.

Similar conversations were happening around the US, anticipating Future Tech's E3 presentation.

Vince was working on the presentation outline when a comlink request from a familiar name popped up on his Hypervisor.

He gestured in the air to accept Elon's call while saving his current work.

"How have you been the past few weeks, my friend?" Vince asked.

"My work with Morgan and Patel regarding carbon nanotube battery technology was nothing short of a miracle, Vince. I never knew your Hive Mind manufacturing process had already advanced to the point of making chemical vapor deposition obsolete. In addition, I heard from Patel that you suggested 3D printing graphene instead of using toxic chemicals." Elon stated reverently.

[In 2021, additive manufacturing had already disrupted entire industries, like printing a whole space shuttle. I spent most of my billions upgrading the Hive Mind for a reason.] Vince pondered.

"Our material science division is fortunate to have reliable leaders like Patel and Morgan. Even my local oil gas neighbors have been eyeing the AV jet fuel complex." Vince replied.

"Now that we've met our battery goals for Q2 of 2013, can I start implementing the new carbon nanotube batteries in my Teslas?" Elon asked honestly.

"Elon, using small batteries for mobile devices, tablets, and the Hypervisor is perfect, but the large automotive and home batteries will require so much energy to charge from the power grid. We're advancing battery storage technology too fast, while US infrastructure can't catch up." Vince explained sincerely.

"You're right. I was so excited with the thought of carbon nanotube batteries it blinded me from practical and common sense." Elon said in a depressed tone.

"When I envisioned Future Tech becoming a telecom provider, I invested most of my liquid capital into building network infrastructure around the world. I even had to negotiate a deal with President Obama for a private expansion of the transatlantic and transpacific cable systems." Vince explained.

"So you're suggesting we upgrade the US power grid before I can use the CNT batteries in my cars?!" Elon asked vehemently.

"It's for the greater good, Elon. Even if I throw all my money into fusion energy research, the power still has to travel using the aging and inadequate power grid." Vince stated.

"The Department of Energy is a handful to deal with; heck, the entirety of the federal government is a hassle," Elon said in frustration.

"Your quarrel with the government about the car dealership disputes is so dumb. Look at Future Tech. We're selling AVs, and we're technically not even a dealership." Vince said jokingly.

"That's different, Vince. My Teslas don't fly like your AVs." Elon replied depressingly.

"Alright, I'll stop messing with you. I still have a few billion for Q2, but it won't be enough for a complete upgrade. We'll have to lobby for government support on this project as the current estimate cost is around $2 trillion." Vince explained.

"Stop being so negative, Vince. A few billion to upgrade a city like LA and Austin is enough for a start, right?" Elon replied.

"$5 billion for each city, and no more funding requests until Q3. I'm only doing this because of the hard work invested in our carbon nanotube battery technology." Vince instructed.

[Man, even billions can come and go like the wind.] Vince thought.

"Don't be so modest. Your new product line will sell like hotcakes. For example, the Future Tech supercomputers make the Tianhe-2 feel like a Chromebook, and it's half the price. Though $200 million isn't cheap by any means." Elon replied.

"Oh, you've got an Infinity Supercomputer already?" Vince asked curiously.

"Andreas had it installed at the SpaceX headquarters yesterday. My engineers have been playing with it like kids ever since." Elon replied.

"I'll be in LA for the E3 presentation, of course. We can meet at the Future Tech exhibit before the event starts." Vince stated.

"For sure! I can't wait to see those silicon valley suits' faces when you unveil the Infinity product line." Elon said jokingly.

[Dude, you're technically one of those silicon valley suits. What the?!]

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$15 Billion cash in Future Tech

105,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education, SpaceX)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

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Vince took the elevator from his penthouse and walked towards the Material Science and Micro Device offices.

He found an Indian and British man discussing in one of the meeting rooms.

"Good day, Vince. We weren't aware that you were stopping by." Patel said as he saw Vince enter the meeting room.

"Sorry, gentlemen. I didn't mean to interrupt. I just finished chatting with Elon, and he sang praises of both your work." Vince stated sincerely.

"We wouldn't have gotten this far without the team and your support, Vince. I appreciate Elon's kind words." Patel replied honestly.

"Likewise. Patel and I were discussing the final configuration of the Infinity product line. We'll be working with Andreas to update the HV mass-manufacturing process." Morgan added.

"Have Andreas save 25% of our total manufacturing capacity for corporate-only orders. The rest we'll use to churn out commercial products." Vince instructed.

"Understood. Do you have any input in our next project direction?" Morgan asked curiously.

[I'll leave it to the experts on this one. Nanometer manufacturing is way above my head.] Vince pondered.

"None for now, but what have you guys brainstormed so far?" Vince asked.

"Our system on nanites are sub-nanometer in size and currently too expensive for any commercial use. So we're looking for alternatives to pursue in the meantime." Patel replied.

"Marco's leg cost us $10 million just in materials, and most of our SON components are already allocated to Dr. Sera's cancer research project," Morgan added.

"I suggest going back to basics, then. We've already achieved an economical production process for carbon nanotubes; why don't we refine our graphene manufacturing? It's not as small as SON chips, but still very useful." Vince recommended.

"Indeed. We can slowly master weaving graphene and carbon nanotubes into more applications like radiofrequency antennas. In addition, the new batteries will help with our imminent energy upkeep issue here at Austin." Patel stated.

"Which reminds me. A representative from the EU's contacted me through the British embassy recently requesting technical support for their Graphene Flagship research initiative." Morgan stated.

[The $1 billion European Union fund? The program that practically failed, probably due to such a pitiful investment amount.] Vince thought.

"We own the patents for our production process, and it won't be cheap if they want us to sell them our trade secrets," Vince replied in defense.

"The US government will never let that happen. Our technology is a strategic asset to this country. We'd need approval from the secretary of state when the situation involves such valuable technology as carbon nanotubes and graphene." Patel replied.

"What were you saying about an energy issue?" Vince asked inquisitively.

"Future Tech headquarters and campus use a separate power grid and station from the rest of Texas but still requires energy from the Texas interconnection. Power costs are still within reasonable levels, but the sheer volume of energy is straining the power grid." Morgan explained.

"I just approved a $10 billion budget to expand the power grid systems of LA and Austin. How big of a short-term issue are we talking about?" Vince asked.

"Currently, Andreas cannot expand the Hive Mind factories further without ample energy headroom. So we are at our limits in terms of production." Patel explained in a soft tone.

"Why wasn't I notified about this potential issue?" Vince asked in annoyance.

"Future Tech's rate of expansion this year was like an explosion. We're supplying 25% of the entire US military munitions, mass-producing cutting-edge aerodyne vehicles, and rebuilding a whole Afghan city. All this while producing consumer products for millions of people." Morgan stated.

"Okay. Thank you for explaining the situation. Both of you will focus on optimizing energy transmission technology with the help of Elon and Tesla. I'll add further funding in Q4 of this year." Vince instructed.

"We should be okay with our current budget until the end of the year," Patel replied.

"I'd like both of you on stage to present our Infinity product line during E3. Not required if you don't want to." Vince said.

"I already presented our first-generation AIM products last year, so I'll be skipping E3. How about you, Patel?" Morgan asked.

"Let me speak about the AI-driven ecosystem. It's a feature I genuinely admire." Patel asked.

"Of course, Patel. And you're in luck cause we'll be meeting a few famous people in LA." Vince replied.

"What kind of presentation are we doing? The Apple style of product announcements seems to be popular." Patel asked.

"The Apple launch events are dull as fuck. We'll be in LA, and people there require more entertainment value than the rest. So I'll be hiring famous artists for a musical show during our E3 presentation." Vince explained.

"You're going all out, huh? Might as well." Morgan said.

"It's what marketing is all about. Let me know if you guys need anything; I'll finalize our E3 exhibit in my office. Oh, don't forget to nominate an executive director for the material science sub-division." Vince said before bidding farewell.

Vince returned to the penthouse and was notified by Aiya regarding a new arrival.

"Assistant director Alexis of Future Education is waiting for you in the living room. I'll bring some refreshments in the meantime." Aiya stated.

Vince entered the room and found a pretty caucasian lady in her late 20s sitting on a sofa.

"Welcome to Future Tech headquarters, Alexis. I've heard great things about you from Director Price. You're work in Kandahar has been instrumental for the Hypervisor's quick testing phase." Vince declared after shaking her hand.

"Thank you very much, Mr. Dalton. I'll do my best to perform my duties here in the States as well as anywhere this job takes me." Alexis replied sincerely.

"Call me Vince. I admire your innate drive to pursue success but don't push yourself too hard. From now on, you'll be in charge of all Future Security's training facilities, except the main barracks here in Austin. Your office is two floors down. I trust you'll have all the US military troops trained and ready by the end of the year." Vince instructed.

[Hell yeah! That's my ticket to a promotion!] Alexis thought joyously.

"I will, Vince. You can count on me!" Alexis replied.

"Good to hear. I remember seeing you were from Brooklyn on your file. How's the family doing?" Vince asked.

"I asked my mother and brother to move with me here in Austin. We're very grateful for the luxurious accommodations." Alexis replied.

"The tech campus residential area is a prototype for a neo-modern city. I'm glad your family finds it appealing. You've spent plenty of time with the prototype Hypervisor. Do you want to do a live presentation during E3?" Vince asked curiously.

"No. I mean. I don't feel like I've contributed enough to speak in front of so many people, but I'll gladly attend the event as support." Alexis replied in worry.

"That's a great idea! I needed someone to manage the Hypervisor demonstration booth, and you're the perfect person for the job!" Vince declared.

"I'll have a team ready to assist any who wishes to test the Hypervisors, without issue. How many concurrent demos do you think we'll be servicing?" Alexis asked.

"Around one hundred Hypervisor and Infinity Console demos, and please keep it sanitary. But we'll have medical staff around just in case. Most people haven't experienced VR yet, let alone a photorealistic one." Vince explained.

While Vince and Alexis were discussing work in the penthouse living room, Leah walked wearing the latest Future Couture design and was surprised to see a new face around the headquarters.

"Who's this pretty young thing?" Leah asked vivaciously.

"Assistant Director Alexis, this is Leah, my loving mother," Vince said as he introduced them to each other.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Ms. Dalton," Alexis said.

"She's been working for Future Education at our Kandahar branch the past five months. Director Price himself highly recommended Alexis." Vince explained.

Leah kept eyeing Alexis up and down with a predacious look.

[What's going on? It feels so awkward.] Alexis thought.

"I can see why Price is so taken with you, my dear. You'll do well in this company, and I can already see it." Leah replied with a matching odd grin.

[Changing the subject is the play here.] Vince pondered.

"She'll also be joining the E3 conference exhibit as technical support and management," Vince explained.

"The nerd convention in LA? That's in June. So the weather would be perfect for sunbathing and hanging around the beach." Leah stated.

"Yeah, but there will be so many tourists around you won't enjoy it all," Vince replied.

"How about I invite Dr. Sera, and we'll rent a yacht to avoid the tourist crowds. Don't tell me you can't afford it, Vince." Leah said with a devious smile.

[As if I can say no to mom.] Vince thought begrudgingly.

"Whatever you say, mom," he replied.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$15 Billion cash in Future Tech

105,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education, SpaceX)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

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Under the bright sunlight raining down on a middle eastern city, Director Price oversaw the installation of ten Future Arms All-Weather Missile Defense Batteries around Kandahar.

[$500 million is a big chunk of Future Security's annual budget, but we've invested too much in the city to watch it fall from enemy artillery.] Price thought while walking around a battery emplacement.

He watched a few FS operators chatting with locals at a Halal Guys fast food restaurant.

Kids were running around the clean and orderly streets playing with each other without worry or fear.

[This is what we're protecting. Fortunately, neighboring hostile nations haven't set their sights on Kandahar. But it will only be a matter of time.] Price pondered.

The new missile defense system in place was inspired heavily by the Israeli Iron Dome. The batteries will deploy target-locking and intercepting missiles to stop any incoming attacks. Each battery costs $50 million to build and requires yearly maintenance.

Luckily, Future Arms already produces missiles for the US government, which reduced the RD time for the new system.

Price mostly spent Future Security's 2013 budget of $25 billion on new equipment like FAV-1s, Stingrays, and ASR-1 drones. Troop training and drills weren't too hard to manage, considering the US had 8,000 soldiers who were happy to train with the FS operators.

[I'll need to switch out the 5,000 FS units stationed in Mexico soon. The private security contracts we inherited from Andrews International are such a fucking hassle.] Price thought begrudgingly.

[Recruiting more security forces can be a viable stop-gap measure but will become inefficient soon enough, especially with the company's rapid expansion. Future Tech prides itself on the quality of its products; then Future Security should do the same.]

Price decided to contact Heidi as soon as he got back to his office.

He opened a comlink channel request after text messaging Director Heidi regarding his problem.

"Price, I'm busy right now. What's this big problem you mentioned?" Heidi stated with her alluring voice.

"Do you have any suggestions for a project to enhance my men's capabilities in battle? Unfortunately, Future Tech is growing too fast, and we won't have the capacity to train new operators continuously." Price said in a hushed tone.

"What? Are the Dragonflies, AVs, and atmospheric recon drones not enough for your men? Heidi asked, annoyed.

"You know I don't mean it like that, Director Heidi. We appreciate what the Robotics division has done for us here at Future Security this past year. I'm just asking for a friendly suggestion from a trusted colleague." Price replied sincerely.

"You're quite the lucky guy, Price. I've been busy designing an advanced version of the SpaceX spacesuit using exotic materials like graphene. We'll have to test the suits soon, and I assume you'll be able to do it for us at Kandahar. Then, of course, we'll make adjustments based on Future Security's offensive and defensive requirements." Heidi offered.

"I'm open to testing products like the Hypervisor and this new suit, but what is it exactly?" Price asked.

"Vince suggested the inspiration for the design at a SpaceX engineer meeting a few weeks ago. Have you ever heard of Space Marines, Director Price?" Heidi asked honestly.

Vince discussed business with an African-American man wearing a lab coat in his 30s.

Diontray Ellison, or Dion, was the assistant director of the material science sub-division. He specialized in carbon-based allotropes and was a protege to Morgan.

They were waiting for a European Union representative to meet with Future Tech to seek research cooperation.

A typical Texan man in his early 30s wearing a sleek three-piece Future Couture suit accompanied a French gentleman in his 50s up to the penthouse living room.

"This is Gaston Boudier, a high-ranking member of the European Atomic Energy Community," David said as he introduced both Vince and Dion to their European guest.

"We have contacted Morgan through the British consulate but had no luck. Thank you for meeting with me directly." Gaston said with a french accent.

"Europe is a large market, and I'm always happy to entertain potential customers and clients. So would you please take a seat wherever is most comfortable?" Vince stated sincerely.

Gaston and David took their seats across the living room table.

"Let me be frank. My department has spent the past year investigating Future Tech products' use of carbon nanotubes. It seems like you've devised an economical solution in mass-producing carbon microstructures. The EU was planning on investing $1 billion for a ten-year program for graphene RD, but it is now practically useless knowing Future Tech already employs a viable manufacturing method." Gaston explained.

"Dion, do you think $1 billion would have been enough capital to advance graphene production?" Vince asked.

"It would be impossible, even with $10 billion for ten years. Our graphene production is only possible due to advancements in our AI manufacturing suite." Dion explained.

"Your 'Graphene Flagship' initiative would have been useless, either way. So what does the EU want from me?" Vince asked honestly.

"One of the ultimate goals of our graphene initiative was to develop superconductive materials for fusion energy research at ITER. This project is the most crucial research path in human history." Gaston explained with passion.

"I beg to disagree, but I do understand the importance of clean energy. However, you still haven't mentioned what the EU wants from Future Tech." Vince replied.

[We're researching treatment for any form of cancer, which is pretty essential, in my opinion.] Vince pondered.

"We would like to invite Future Tech to collaborate with ITER as a US representative. Of course, your company will receive a portion of the $60 billion in ITER government funding from the EU." Gaston offered.

"In your dreams. Future Tech's graphene production process is worth trillions of dollars by itself. So why would I share my technology for such a pitiful amount? Vince asked in an angered tone.

"Might I remind you of the EU's long-standing relationship with the United States" Gaston replied.

"You don't have to remind me like I don't have to tell you how many billions of dollars in taxes the EU would lose if I choose to relocate all my businesses to the states." Vince fired back.

"Gentlemen. It seems like this meeting has gotten off-track. You've traveled from quite afar, Gaston. Let me show you to your quarters. I can explain the protected status of our graphene technology on the way." David interjected.

They left the penthouse living room and headed towards the guest floor.

"Dion, was I too harsh on the old Frenchie?" Vince asked after calming down a little.

"I agree with you 100%. However, these people have no right to force us to share technology for such a low price. I would understand if it were the US government, but we aren't beholden to a foreign organization like the EU." Dion replied honestly.

"Thanks for attending the meeting with Gaston, just in case I needed the technical expertise. Keep up the good work, and you'll find yourself an executive director position soon. Morgan trusts in your work," Vince stated.

"I appreciate Morgan's nomination. I'll live up to both of your expectations as best as I can." Dion replied.

"You're dismissed for now. I'll have Aiya call you if I require technical assistance." Vince instructed.

[My outburst might give me a headache later on. I should contact Marcia to get me in touch with the US Department of Energy just in case.] Vince pondered as Dion left the penthouse.

Vince opened a private comlink channel and contacted Marcia Kemp, his lead attorney.

"How is David doing with the EU representative? Are there any issues?" Marcia asked.

"David is doing fine with Gaston. But, on the other hand, I may have gotten on the wrong foot with our guest. He had the audacity of asking for our graphene production process for just a portion of $60 billion in funding." Vince explained.

"You were right to deny him. The US government would spend way more if we could guarantee a working fusion reactor within a few years." Marcia replied.

"Should I continue negotiating with the Frenchie, or should we discuss things with the federal government first?" Vince asked.

"Leave Gaston to David and me. I'll talk to Ernest Moniz, the Secretary of Energy, before finalizing anything with the Europeans." Marcia replied.

"And Kemp-Jacobs has recently signed a lease agreement with the Houston Port Authority for our pending oceanic shipping division. How much funding should I provide Andreas for construction?" Marcia added.

"I still have $15 billion in cash left for Q2 of this year. So I'll approve $5 billion as the initial funding for facilities, and I'll add more in Q3." Vince replied.

[My billions leave as fast as I earned it. Well, money was always meant to be spent, I guess.] So Vince pondered while counting his liquid savings.

Stats last time checked:

Future Tech current valuation - $300 billion

15 million BTC (currently trades at $1,000)

$10 Billion cash in Future Tech

105,000 employees (FT AI, Future Studios, Hive Mind Manufacturing, FT Micro Devices, BitCash, FT VR, Future Tech F1, FT Investments, Future Arms, Future Med, Future Tech Robotics, Future Education, SpaceX)

20,000 operators under Future Security

Personal Vehicles: Klassen Phantom, Agera R, Agera SFV, Boeing Luxury 787 Dreamliner

Five company collaborators (Epic, Koenegisegg, SpaceX, Tesla, Hyundai CE)

Dozens of investments under Future Tech Holdings (i..e., Instagram)

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