The Art of the Deal

Ethan leaned back in his chair, phone in hand, eyes locked on the unknown number flashing across the screen.

A former billionaire investor—now a system-provided ally—was calling him.

His fingers hovered over the answer button.

Then, he smirked.

Let's see what this guy has to offer.

He answered.

"Ethan Cole."

A deep, confident voice responded. "Good. You pick up fast. I expected hesitation."

"I don't hesitate when I see an opportunity." Ethan's tone was casual, but sharp.

A short chuckle came through the speaker. "Smart answer. You'll need that mindset where we're headed."

Ethan glanced at the time. "You didn't call just to test my attitude. What do you want?"

There was a pause—short, deliberate.

Then:

"I want to make you rich, Mr. Cole."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "I already have money."

Another chuckle. "Not the kind that matters. You have cash. I'm talking about power."

Ethan's smirk widened. "Go on."

The First Moves

Within an hour, Ethan was seated in a high-end private lounge in Manhattan, across from Alexander Graves.

The man looked exactly as he had online—tall, silver-haired, with an air of effortless authority. He was dressed in a dark gray suit, sipping whiskey like he owned the city.

Ethan, still in his casual hoodie and jeans, didn't care about appearances. Yet.

Alexander studied him. "You don't look like a man sitting on ten million dollars."

Ethan's gray eyes gleamed. "I don't need to. That's why I'm still breathing."

Alexander smirked. "Good. Now, tell me—what's your plan?"

Ethan crossed his arms. "I'm going to buy companies. Not random stocks—companies on the verge of skyrocketing. I'll start with a few million, multiply it fast, then expand into industries where real power is built."

Alexander nodded, intrigued. "And what industries do you think hold that power?"

Ethan leaned forward. "Technology. AI. Private security. Energy. Everything that governments fear but can't live without."

Alexander's eyes gleamed with approval. "You think big. I like that."

Ethan's phone buzzed.

[Financial Insight Activated.]

[Analyzing Market for High-Profit Investments…]

[Three companies identified with guaranteed exponential growth.]

The names popped up before him. Each company was small now—but within months, their value would explode.

Ethan didn't hesitate.

He turned to Alexander. "I need a broker. Someone discreet, efficient, and loyal."

Alexander smirked. "You just met him."

Ethan grinned. "Then let's get to work."

The First Acquisitions

Over the next six hours, Ethan executed his first major moves:

Titan Dynamics – A small but highly innovative tech startup focusing on next-gen AI chips. Their research was ahead of the curve, but they lacked funding. Ethan acquired 40% of their shares for just $2.3 million. Within a year, the company was projected to be worth ten times that.

IronCore Security Solutions – A private military and security firm on the edge of landing a massive government contract. Ethan bought 35% of their stock for $3 million, ensuring a stake in an industry where power was measured in more than just money.

NovaGrid Energy – A rising name in sustainable energy with breakthrough battery storage technology. Ethan acquired 30% of their shares for $2.5 million, knowing that as the world pushed for green energy, this company would dominate the market.

By the time he was done, he had invested $7.8 million, leaving him with $2.2 million in liquid cash.

Alexander leaned back, clearly impressed. "You move fast. I respect that."

Ethan checked his phone.

[System Notification: Task Progress – 30% Complete.]

[Mission Reward: +1 Special Skill Unlocked: Business Intuition.]

A rush of pure knowledge flowed into his mind. He suddenly understood deals, negotiations, and strategies at a level no normal businessman could.

He exhaled slowly. This system… is insane.

Alexander noticed his shift in expression. "Something wrong?"

Ethan shook his head. "No. Just thinking."

Alexander smirked. "Good. Because we just made your first move on the board. Now, let's see who tries to play against you."

Ethan's eyes darkened with determination.

Let them try.

Now,that he has a system he fear nothing.