"Pause."
The chief financial officer reached for the remote.
Lex Luthor held his hand down.
On the screen, the Reactor had just lit up blue.
"I meant pause the bad news you're about to read out."
The chief financial officer set the document at the edge of the desk.
"The bank is demanding a reassessment of the energy project's collateral. Two partners have requested to withdraw. We need to provide additional security within forty-eight hours."
Lex Luthor dragged the progress bar back.
The metal ring lit up again.
He leaned forward and only released the mouse when the Wayne Enterprises logo appeared.
"Beautiful."
The chief financial officer said nothing.
"I meant the equipment." Lex Luthor opened the document. "Not that face."
Across from him, Elias took off his glasses and rubbed the bridge of his nose.
"Hospitals will need it. Nebulizer treatment systems depend on continuous monitoring. Power supplies in remote areas have always been a problem."
"Hospitals, ports, railways, cities."
Lex Luthor picked up a pen and drew a line beneath the required collateral amount.
"He sells the core first, then sets the certification standards. From now on, every mayor cutting a ribbon will have to thank Mr. Wayne."
Elias looked at the screen.
Bruce was answering a question about unemployment compensation.
"At least he's willing to answer."
The pen stopped.
A small blot of ink seeped into the paper.
Lex Luthor smiled and capped the pen.
"Yes. He's so likable even when he's being challenged."
The chief financial officer lowered his head.
Lex Luthor handed the collateral document back to him.
"Give the bank the additional funds. We can't let people think we're sore losers."
After the door closed, Elias slid a purchase request across the desk.
"The clinical project needs an independent backup power supply. I suggest