Did You Destroy the World Today?
Chapter 35: This is the Real Angel Round

Inside the chairman's office of Tianqiong Technology, Ren Jian sat across from Lin Xu, holding the signed confidentiality agreement and patent licensing letter of intent that Lin Xu had brought back from Xu Jin. His face showed no trace of surprise.

In fact, after his conversation with Chu Xu, he had already stopped doubting whether this deal would go through. 

Of course it would work out—if they had approached you, they must have already laid all the groundwork. If everything was prearranged, why would they get stuck at this stage? All that talk about Asperger's, autism, and "friends" were just excuses to cut off direct contact. 

Hell, the documents were probably complete and ready—they just hadn't qualified to see them yet. And now, Lin Xu returning with the letter of intent in such a short time only confirmed his and Chu Xu's suspicions.

Since when do decent people sign letters of intent right off the bat? If the technology wasn't complete, they'd be signing a joint development agreement instead. This letter of intent could only mean one thing:

The results already existed. A small fry like Tianqiong Technology wasn't needed for the actual development. Their role was simply to be the respectable front, doing what the real powers behind the scenes required while maintaining national dignity.

In that moment, countless thrilling spy stories flashed through Ren Jian's mind. 

Having weathered the business world for years, he'd seen his share of major events—especially after entering the civilian rocket manufacturing industry, where he'd encountered matters that even veteran capitalists would consider "secret legends." Yet never before had he felt this exhilarated.

He could almost picture the patriotic scholars working overseas, enduring humiliation while leveraging foreign resources to organize research, then passing the fruits of their labor through perilous channels to covert operatives, who finally selected domestic representatives to deliver this letter of intent to him.

Just a single sheet of paper—yet behind it lay the efforts of countless individuals.

Thinking this, he sincerely told Lin Xu: "You've worked hard."

Lin Xu blinked. Hard? He hadn't really done much... though technically he had put in effort.

"Ahem... there were some twists and turns," Lin Xu admitted. "But fortunately, we got a good result. My discussions with Xu Jin went smoothly—he'll apply for patents after completing the material technology development and grant us licensing rights. However, to secure priority usage rights, we'll need to provide upfront payment. The exact amount is still under discussion—as you can see, we've only reached preliminary agreement so far."

"Additionally, he's requested equipment and funding. We may need to establish a subsidiary specifically to support further R&D. That's something for you to consider."

"Understood, understood." Ren Jian's attitude toward Lin Xu was anything but superior-subordinate—if not exactly reverent, it was certainly egalitarian. 

"The specific business details will take time to finalize—no rush there. As for the subsidiary... I don't think we should delay. Register it immediately, proceed with procurement. Once we settle equity distribution, we can incorporate within two or three days. You can oversee subsequent equipment/material purchases and staffing—how does that sound?"

"Me?" Lin Xu was stunned.

"Problem?" Ren Jian's heart skipped a beat, fearing his suggestion might conflict with Lin Xu's plans—or worse, offend the powers behind him and ruin this golden opportunity.

"...It's doable," Lin Xu finally replied.

Ren Jian exhaled in relief. "You're already a key member here—we'll keep your position at Tianqiong unchanged. For the new company, you'll contribute technical expertise as an individual shareholder. Regarding equity split between you, Xu Jin, and the company..."

He paused. "Industry standard would give the full investor at least 33%. But considering the technology isn't ours, we can concede another 1%—so Tianqiong takes 32%. Acceptable?"

Extremely acceptable. Lin Xu couldn't fathom why Ren Jian was offering such generous terms. He'd expected to establish the company himself, with Tianqiong providing most capital while being excluded from patent rights. But with Ren Jian voluntarily reducing to 32%—losing his one-third veto power—control would fall entirely to Lin Xu.

Now this was a real angel round investment! A true angel investor!

Reviewing the proposal, Lin Xu found no hidden traps. What was this—capitalists growing consciences? In that case... no need to hold back.

"This seems reasonable," Lin Xu nodded decisively. "I doubt they'll refuse. We should begin preparations immediately."

Ren Jian chuckled at "they'll refuse"—as if Lin Xu wasn't the one calling the shots. What masterful equivocation... but no matter, as long as the goal was achieved.

Ren Jian had never expected to obtain the two material patents—those were beyond his reach. Even just priority licensing rights would bring Tianqiong tremendous benefits—industrial production methods for two cutting-edge materials! 

Self-use aside, commercial sales would devastate the high-strength carbon fiber market. Tianqiong could expand beyond civilian aerospace into premium material supply. Profits were guaranteed, and with this stable revenue stream, investment would pour in, creating a virtuous cycle to accelerate their core aerospace business.

Self-sustaining momentum!

Ren Jian's heart raced. This might be the opportunity of a lifetime—all thanks to the young man before him. Better keep him happy!

Rising quickly, Ren Jian extended his hand. "Then we're aligned. My assistant will prepare a task list and milestones for you. I'll handle company registration immediately—contracts can go to our legal team."

"No problem," Lin Xu nodded hastily. The chairman himself preparing his task list and milestones? Talk about role reversal!

Before Lin Xu could protest, Ren Jian continued: "Also, you've rendered extraordinary service. We'll process your bonus now for May distribution alongside year-end awards once material prototypes are ready. And we'll adjust your salary—effective next month."

"Thank you, sir." Lin Xu remained composed. He'd earned this!

After exchanging pleasantries, Lin Xu departed. Returning to his corner workstation, Jiang Xingye immediately pressed for updates. 

At a loss how to explain, Lin Xu simply said: "Looks like I'm becoming a boss too..."