Chapter 25 - The Game Board Expands
Jack steps into the tech startup's modest office. The walls are bare, the furniture secondhand, and the employees look like they haven't slept in days. Perfect.
A man in his early thirties approaches. "You must be Jack. I'm Kevin, the founder."
"Nice to meet you," Jack says, shaking his hand. "I hear you're looking for investors."
Kevin sighs, running a hand through his disheveled hair. "Yeah. Derek was supposed to come by and make us an offer, but... he's a no-show."
Jack smirks. "Forget Derek. Let's talk business."
[Mission Update: Acquire 30% of the startup's shares. Progress: 50%]
Jack and Kevin sit down, and Jack pulls out a stack of papers. "Your software has potential, but you're bleeding money. I can help – but I want 30% equity."
Kevin's jaw tightens. "30%? That's... a lot."
[Hint: Use Advanced Negotiation to secure the deal.]
Jack leans forward, his gaze sharp. "You're drowning in debt. If Derek buys you out, you'll get pennies. With me, you get a partner who knows how to turn a profit. Take the deal, Kevin."
Kevin hesitates, then nods. "Fine. 30%. But I want one condition."
Jack raises an eyebrow. "Go on."
"You have to keep my team intact. They're the heart of this operation."
Jack smiles. "Done."
[Mission Completed: Acquire 30% of the startup's shares. Reward: Financial Forecasting Lv. 1.]
A surge of clarity washes over Jack as the new skill activates. Charts, graphs, and financial projections flash through his mind like a perfectly synchronized dance.
[New Mission Unlocked: Expand influence beyond the local market. Reward: Advanced Business Insight Lv. 1.]
Jack stands, extending his hand to Kevin. "Welcome to the team. Now let's get to work."