Chapter 80

The Rise of Charlie Lee: An Ambitious Visionary's Journey

Greta Garbo, originally named Greta Lovisa Gustafsson, was born in Sweden in 1903. Tragically, she lost her father at the age of 14, plunging her family into poverty. Despite these hardships, her natural beauty and talent did not go unnoticed. She was discovered by Swedish director Mauritz Stiller, who saw her potential and brought her to Hollywood. Under MGM's banner, Greta quickly ascended to stardom, becoming known as the "screen goddess" by 1927, adored by fans and even admired by fellow actresses. Her aloof disposition and distaste for social engagements only added to her enigmatic allure.

MGM, recognizing her value, meticulously developed her career. During the filming of Flesh and the Devil, she fell for her co-star, marking the only known romantic involvement of her life. Greta's reserved nature and authenticity stood out in a town where pretense was the norm, making her one of Hollywood's most compelling figures.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the country, Charlie Lee, a visionary entrepreneur, was carving out his path. His ambitions extended far beyond the boundaries of traditional business practices. Sitting across from his associate, Aria, Charlie joked, "Looks like I'm not the only one facing setbacks." Closing a document, he gestured for Aria to elaborate on their latest project.

Aria, a poised and efficient woman with an air of quiet authority, reported, "We've secured a property in the southern downtown area, just two blocks from the University of Southern California. It spans 62.8 acres at $180 per acre—remarkably cheap."

"What's the environment like?" Charlie asked.

"Chaotic," Aria replied candidly. "The area is essentially abandoned, and even police avoid it after dark."

Charlie chuckled. "No wonder it's so cheap. How much would it cost to lay grass, install training facilities, and build barracks?"

Aria estimated, "No more than $300,000. Aegis can cover that comfortably."

"Only $300,000? That's it?" Charlie frowned. "We need to spend more effectively."

Aria explained, "It's basic infrastructure—nothing extravagant."

Charlie nodded, dissatisfied but determined. "Then let's add a landmark building on the street. We need to stand out."

Aria interjected, "Los Angeles has regulations prohibiting super high-rises."

"Seriously?" Charlie sighed, frustrated. "Fine. Design something exceptional. Bring in Berkeley's designers. If they fail to deliver, they're out."

Charlie's drive wasn't limited to training grounds. His vision for expansion extended to acquiring land across California and Texas, territories he believed were rich in oil reserves. "If I could, I'd convert all our funds into land. Texas and California have untapped potential."

"Boss, we can't overlook regulations," Aria reminded him.

"Then build to the highest standard within those limits," Charlie insisted. "I want progress, not excuses."

Shifting his focus, Charlie asked, "How's McDonald's Paradise coming along?"

Aria replied, "The flagship location is under final review. Construction will begin once the site is approved."

"Good. Push it forward. Time is money," Charlie urged, his energy infectious.

As discussions turned to acquisitions, Charlie signed off on a $2.3 million deal for five copper mines in Arizona. "Merge them with FSC," he instructed. "If other shareholders won't invest, buy them out. Our focus is dominance."

He added, "Rare earth materials are strategic for the future. Secure survey teams to locate rare earth and oil reserves in California and Texas. Allocate an initial $1 million for this."

Aria and Ava, his trusted associates, admired his decisiveness. Under Charlie's leadership, there was no room for complacency or greed. Those who violated his trust faced swift consequences, enforced by the enigmatic figure Wang Dagou, head of Aegis Bureau's training program.

Wang Dagou's reputation was legendary. Known for his strictness and physical prowess, he commanded respect and fear. Trainees who challenged him often regretted it after enduring grueling sessions designed to humble even the most arrogant. His philosophy was simple: discipline bred excellence.

Aria once witnessed Wang delivering a sidekick that sent a 200-pound trainee flying over ten meters. The sight left her muttering, "What a monster."

Amused by her reaction, Charlie kept his focus. After a hearty breakfast prepared by a Chinese chef at the POMA Hotel, he turned his attention to an unexpected development. "Boss," Ava said, "Miss Juliana wants to meet you."

Charlie raised an eyebrow. "Did she say why?"

"No, but she called the secretary's office directly."

"Strange," Charlie mused. Juliana, a sharp strategist from JP Morgan, wasn't one to waste time on frivolities. He knew their conversations usually revolved around business, not pleasantries.

"Put me through," he instructed. When Juliana's voice came through the receiver, Charlie greeted her warmly. The conversation quickly turned serious. "You mean Mr. Morgan himself wants to see me?" Charlie asked, intrigued.

Hanging up, Charlie leaned back in thought. J.P. Morgan's reputation as a financial titan was unmatched. Though the group had suffered during the Great Depression, its influence remained formidable. Charlie viewed this meeting as both an opportunity and a challenge. "Morgan wanting to meet me? This should be interesting."

As he considered the implications, Bergman's voice interrupted his thoughts. "Good morning, dear," she greeted, wrapping her arms around him.

Charlie smiled. "Good morning." After sharing a brief moment, he escorted her back to Hollywood, his mind already racing with plans for the future.

The Morgan Group's financial empire was staggering. Before the Great Depression, it controlled assets worth over $70 billion, spanning banking, insurance, and industrial sectors. Despite its losses, its dominance remained unparalleled. For Charlie, this meeting was a chance to align his burgeoning empire with a name that symbolized power and resilience.

"Let's see where this leads," Charlie murmured, ready to face whatever lay ahead. With ambition as his compass and a sharp mind as his tool, Charlie Lee was determined to leave an indelible mark on history.