Gone?

Richard truly wasn't worried about the people around him. Anyone he knew was more than a match for a few expendable grunts Whitehall might send after them.

But Whitehall clearly didn't see it that way. He still wore that narrow-eyed smile, the glare on his lenses making him look even more like a crafty, scheming final boss.

"Let's speak plainly. I've done my research, Mr. Li. I know you have people you care about, and I know where they all are," he said. "Normally, it may not be easy for us to act in this room, but they have to leave eventually. You can't watch over every one of them at all times."

"If you're worried that I intend to use them to force you into doing something excessive, there's no need. I came here merely to show... goodwill."

"Oh? What kind of goodwill?" Richard continued drinking his beer. The can was already nearly empty.

Honestly, alcohol barely had any effect on him now. He drank purely as if it were a beverage, just to taste it.

"Very simple." Whitehall folded his hands together. "I believe you already know that a storm is coming. Baron Strucker is finished; that's a foregone conclusion. The only question is who will make the move and claim the benefits."

"I know, but I'm not interested." Richard said, "If that's what you're worried about, you needn't be."

Dr. Whitehall smiled.

"Let's say I believe you," Whitehall said. "But that isn't the answer I want. In fact, I hope you will be interested. I need you to give it everything you have and take your share of the profits from the coming conflict... and then I will take a portion of it."

"Oh." Richard's expression remained blank. "You think I'd do that?"

"Forgive me for saying