The expert nearly lost his composure.

It was the first time he saw someone so eager to be robbed.

"Don't worry, we've already paid the deposit, you sure won't lack our patronage, but..."

Olivia took out the pre-prepared script

"We do understand the need for risk distribution, besides, you have other clients too, you may not be able to meet the needs of the Chaotic Blade Association. You know, in North America, we're quite a force, with brothers all over the place. In the underworld, who wouldn't give us some respect..."

Wally suddenly realized

Right, considering they produce several tons of drugs daily, they still aren't enough in the global drug market. And given it's a new partnership, it's normal for them to buy from multiple sources to ensure channel security and stable supply.

Only by successfully establishing this business relationship, spreading our reputation, and expanding the production line, can we demand a larger share. He was indeed too hasty before, so he sincerely said

"As long as the client is satisfied, it's our biggest gain. We hope for more cooperation in the future."

After all, the other party has paid the deposit; would this business just fall through?

"Definitely, definitely."

Olivia shook hands with the other party, flashing a bright white smile.

She felt no psychological pressure at all.

It's well known that the Chaotic Blade Association is untrustworthy

In North America, the Chaotic Blade Association's dealings are rife with deception, betraying others is the norm, not slaughtering your entire family is only because I haven't found your family tree yet.

Besides, dealing with drug traffickers, who talks about ethics and codes?

Just screw them over, that's the way to go.

----

"Gloria's assessment of Havana is out. All equipment is complete, fully meeting the conditions for producing various drugs, and they're using European equipment. As long as the process can be improved, there are no issues with precision and purity."

Upon receiving the information from Gloria, Lin Miao was visibly elated.

Having a personal drug production line would bring a qualitative change to Horizon Corporation as a whole.

Because it means Lin Miao can start establishing an affordable healthcare system.

Healthcare, pension insurance, accident insurance, unemployment insurance collectively termed as social security.

Social security serves as a safety net for individuals in unforeseen circumstances.

Though its value isn't always apparent, when the need arises, you'll be grateful it exists.

Without external pressure, companies won't provide you with social security. They don't care about your future. They pay you only for the work you've already completed.

Whether you die or fall ill, it's not their problem; they'll simply hire someone new to replace you.

But only adequate social security can generate loyalty and cohesion from individuals to society.

Because it represents a strong organization that stands as your safety net, allowing you to work fearlessly for society.

And adequate, inexpensive healthcare can retain a sufficient healthy labor and combat force for society.

Rather than leaving behind a bunch of disabled, sickly individuals and drug addicts.

"However, the fact that Havana's backer is the UK, not the Soviet Petrochemical, surprised me a bit."

Lin Miao was filled with emotion about this, as the two former global superpowers once faced off on this land; one is now fragmented, the other's ideals have vanished, and others have reaped their benefits.

Only the meddler remains a meddler.

Should I say it's surprising, or not surprising at all?

"Is this something to be happy about?"

Lucy, sitting beside, scoffed.

"Behind those drug traffickers is the European Community. There'll be hell to pay if you anger those guys."

She is Eastern European Polish, grew up in Poland, lived in wealth, frequently roamed the internet. Though her world understanding isn't comprehensive, she's more aware than most of the European Community's strength.

While Horizon Corporation can be a local tyrant in Night City, going to Cuba would be like a tiger leaving its territory, less than a dog.

If you upset the European Community and they drop two nukes on Night City, even with Lin Miao's skills, he won't escape death.

"Don't worry."

Lin Miao placed the terminal on the table and pushed it in front of Lucy

"Besides the equipment, Gloria also mentioned that Havana hasn't abandoned the assassination attempts on me."

"How is that supposed to reassure me?!"

Lucy was so angry, she ground her teeth. Company assassinations aren't just about Aguirre, the Manhattan nuclear suitcase could be placed first, then a second now.

"Heh, that's why I say this is my chance."

Lin Miao gestured for Lucy to look at the terminal.

"This is..."

Lucy skeptically picked up the terminal, someone had sent Lin Miao an email

"The New American Federation wants you to go to Washington to meet Miles?"

Meeting with the New America's president during the cyber era isn't such a big deal as it would be in reality.

After all, New America isn't doing well; on the international stage, they're just second or third rate, not much better than the King of Thailand.

Lucy was more worried, as this indicated someone over there wanted him to declare which side he's on.

Lin Miao was unfazed

"Yes, but I didn't agree."

Lucy continued reading. Not only did he not agree

Lin Miao refused to go to Washington, citing busyness and assassination concerns, and even suggested if the president is willing, he could come to Night City to meet him.

Arrogant

Conceited

These are emotions any normal person could discern.

But Lucy knew Lin Miao wasn't such a person; he would never say such things in an email.

Unless... this guy wanted to use the matter to achieve some purpose.

Having the American president visit him could significantly elevate Horizon Corporation's stature in others' eyes.

Theoretically, it could lead to a stock price rise or convey an alliance between Horizon Corporation and New America.

But Lin Miao definitely isn't after that, knowing Horizon Corporation isn't publicly traded, stock prices don't concern him.

Wait!

A flash of insight zoomed through Lucy's mind

Havana wants to assassinate Lin Miao

Lin Miao tapped the table, grinning as he asked

"What do you think... if an assassin from Havana tried to kill the New American president in Night City, how big would that news be."

"Invading Cuba... wouldn't that be perfectly justified?"