Chapter 8

Tire's office, though impeccably clean, exuded an eerie atmosphere. Inside a glass tank, a majestic golden python coiled, its cold, calculating gaze fixed on the intruders as they entered.

"Please, have a seat. Coffee or perhaps a Coke?" Tire offered courteously.

"No need for pleasantries. Let's get down to business," Tang Dao replied, taking a seat on the sofa and leaning forward, fingers tapping rhythmically. "I need your assistance to cross into Ukraine from the Polish border and find a buyer for Nevins Consulting Company."

"Of course," Tire responded.

Tire removed his glasses, carefully folded them, and placed them on the table. With a smile, he continued, "Our company has dealings with the Ukrainian Norfield business group, comprising businessmen from various industries."

Tang Dao nodded thoughtfully. "When can we proceed?"

"Tomorrow evening at eleven, someone will escort you across the border," Tire explained. "But there's a final payment required as per our agreement."

Without hesitation, Tang Dao pulled out a stack of bills, counted ten, and placed them on the table. He leaned in, a hint of intensity in his eyes. "What if I propose a different arrangement?"

"Aren't we already discussing business?" Tire inquired.

"I mean a private arrangement between you and me," Tang Dao emphasized, leaning closer, his demeanor assertive.

Doing business directly with Tire? Bypassing Nevins Consulting? Tire's interest was piqued; he raised an intrigued eyebrow and leaned back, crossing his legs, inviting Tang Dao to elaborate.

"I can offer you 20% of the profits from this shipment," Tang Dao began generously. The mention of profit sparked interest in Tire's eyes. Tang Dao continued, "Help me establish contact with Ermatino Machinery Company."

Machinery Company? Tire's eyebrows furrowed, and he exchanged a surprised glance with Osborne.

Nicholas seemed to be involved in munitions, a hidden truth behind many "machinery companies" operating in the former Soviet Union. These groups often masqueraded as legitimate businesses but were, in fact, smuggling networks orchestrated by corrupt elements within the military or in collaboration with Western smugglers. Their aim was to transport stolen weapons and equipment abroad for substantial profits.

In 1990, for example, Russia's 20th Infantry Division resorted to selling weapons through such "machinery companies" due to financial difficulties. Tire was familiar with these operations.

Despite the surprising revelation, Tire maintained his composure. He had encountered similar dealings before, like when an Argentine arms dealer connected him with a machinery company, and they traded military coats and canned beef for a decommissioned Type 1134A cruiser.

Tire occasionally envied the lucrative nature of arms dealing but understood the associated risks.

Tang Dao remained patient. After sipping his coffee, he discussed details with Osborne, who was visibly excited. Osborne was unaware of the shift towards arms dealings, and his eagerness showed.

After a brief coffee break, Tire finally spoke, "I personally know the chief of staff of the 2nd Ukrainian Border Defense Division. I can assist you, but 20% isn't sufficient for the risks involved." He extended his hand, signaling his demand, "I propose 50%."

Tire was undoubtedly ambitious but astute, knowing his value. Only those with worth could boldly dictate their terms, while others faded into obscurity.

"Why don't you go and take it, Falk?" Osborn voiced his disagreement, his agitation evident.

Tang Dao restrained him, calculating his options. While he had offered money to Nevins Consulting and gained Tire's promise to assist in reaching Ukraine, there remained the issue of his subordinates' injuries. He needed to tread carefully; otherwise, he might find himself in a precarious situation upon crossing the border. Turning an enemy into an ally meant sharing interests, stirring greed, and fostering collaboration.

Smart moves ensured a longer life.

"Agreed," Tang Dao finally said.

"Boss..." Osborn hesitated, but Tang Dao's determination silenced him.

Old Heizi observed casually. He recognized the danger in this man, yet he also understood that he wasn't qualified to turn down this opportunity. Upon Tang Dao's agreement, Tire extended his hand, sealing the deal. "Let's hope for a successful partnership."

"Mr. Tire..." Tang Dao extended his hand, but Tire interrupted, "Call me 'Child.'"

Child? In English, it meant a child. Tang Dao glanced at the towering Old Heizi and felt somewhat embarrassed.

"Then we'll meet tomorrow," Tang Dao said, concluding the matter. Onlookers at the bar booth, including Nevins Consulting's staff and associates, witnessed an unexpected scene: their boss escorting the Chinese man out of the office.

"Boss, are we not concerned about his intentions?" one of them questioned.

Tire squinted at Tang Dao's departure, smiling. "Why be suspicious of a friend?"

Friendship? Water? The staff exchanged puzzled glances but refrained from further comments. They knew better than to challenge the boss's decisions.

Meanwhile, Osborn couldn't help but conceal his doubts. "Boss, by giving him 50% of the profits, what do we gain?"

Tang Dao shrugged off his coat, and as the snowflakes fell into his collar, he exhaled, feeling the chill. He sighed, considering the situation. "Have you ever wondered how much we would've spent if things had gone differently?"

Osborn was momentarily taken aback by the question, hesitating to respond.

"I'm not thrilled about sharing this profit with that old man, but survival matters more than profit. Without my proposal, we might not have left 911 Bar alive," Tang Dao explained.

Osborn, though reluctant, wasn't foolish. He recognized the potential danger presented by Tire, who appeared amicable but harbored hidden threats.

"Don't overthink it. Sharing profits is a means to cultivate friendships and discover new allies. You need to learn this," Tang Dao advised, patting Osborn's shoulder with a meaningful expression. Then, he adjusted his hat and took the lead.

Osborn followed behind, watching Tang Dao with mixed emotions.

"Is this what our future looks like?"

...