Sean, back at school, truly enjoyed the celebrity treatment. Not only was he invited by the school to give a speech, but he also effortlessly secured the annual scholarship. While the money itself meant little to him now, the feeling of masquerading as a top student was incredibly satisfying!
Dr. Connors, who was immersed in scientific research, also experienced a change in his life. This once-overlooked and down-on-his-luck scientist, ridiculed and mocked by his peers for his cross-species genetics research that no one believed in, had been forced to teach at the State University of New York.
Following the successful press conference held by Osborn Industries, the name Curt Connors was suddenly remembered by the academic community. However, this time, no one continued to mock the middle-aged, one-armed man. After all, the mainstream public opinion was overwhelmingly positive. Stepping forward now would inevitably make him a target.
"Thank you, Sean. ALZ-112 was originally your personal invention; it has nothing to do with me," Dr. Connors found Sean privately and expressed his sincere gratitude.
This middle-aged, one-armed man, not skilled with words, was genuinely thankful to Sean. Despite his youth, Sean had helped him multiple times. Whether it was completing the evolutionary formula for the decay rate algorithm or reclaiming the usage rights of the laboratory from Osborn Industries, this exceptionally talented young man had truly changed his life!
"You deserve it, Dr. Connors. ALZ-112, like the decay rate algorithm, isn't perfect. I have many brilliant ideas in my head, but they need an outstanding scientist to perfect them. You did that, so you deserve a share of the honor!"
Sean knew that ALZ-112, originating from Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, was not flawless and had its own side effects. Over time, the human immune system would develop antibodies, leading to recovery. Dr. Connors, who had also been engaged in biological genetics research for many years, eventually solved this problem after repeated experiments.
This world possessed an extremely advanced scientific foundation. That's why Tony Stark, with his constantly evolving and modified Iron Man suits, could contend with powerful beings like the Hulk and Thor. The power of technology was in no way inferior to magic or superpowers.
Therefore, scientists who would play significant roles in future timelines were undoubtedly valuable resources with immense potential for Sean. Wooing Dr. Connors was just the first step; many other important figures would join this team later.
"Oh, right, Doctor, you need to prepare some formal attire," Sean said, turning back before leaving.
Dr. Connors looked puzzled. He had almost no social activities and sometimes even lived in the laboratory, so he didn't understand why Sean wanted him to prepare a suit.
"According to Harry, you've been nominated for the National Medal of Science and have a chance to receive the award personally from the President. For such an important occasion, shouldn't you dress formally?"
Sean smiled brightly. In reality, he was also a nominee, but he had declined the opportunity. It wasn't suitable for him to be too high-profile at the moment. With Dr. Connors acting as a shield in front, it made things more convenient for him.
"…Sean Sipes, the scientific genius of the new era! The second Stark!"
In the president's office at Osborn Industries, Harry smilingly handed Sean the latest magazine. It was an interview from Vanity Fair. As the current darling of the media, countless newspapers and magazines wanted to interview this newly wealthy young man.
After reaching a cooperation agreement with Harry, Sean received hundreds of millions of dollars in compensation, as well as a portion of Osborn Industries' shares. Thus, he could now be considered among the billionaires, though still a considerable distance from Tony Stark's level.
"The second Stark, hehe, that's quite a high evaluation…" Sean smiled slightly, looking at the magazine cover featuring his sharp-suited, energetic, and confident young face. He didn't have many other thoughts about the media constantly comparing him to Tony Stark.
He believed it wouldn't be long before he met the playboy with the genius mind. Speaking of which, based on Sean's continuous attention to Stark Industries, the other party should be heading to the Afghan front lines to promote weapons soon.
This was the beginning of all timelines, the birth of Iron Man, followed by the emergence and assembly of the Avengers, ultimately forming the most powerful superhero team in this world.
"It's quite interesting." This feeling of witnessing the growth of superheroes was truly fascinating.
Sean turned to look at Harry. Thanks to the unprecedented success of the press conference, the young president's situation had improved considerably. At least the shareholders on the board were no longer clamoring to break up and restructure Osborn Industries or sell it off to Wall Street bankers.
"Alright, let's get back to business. The FDA application has been approved, and the next stage is clinical trials. I believe ALZ-112 will be officially launched soon."
Sean sat in his chair. ALZ-112 was just the first step in starting his career. Dr. Connors' research was about to succeed, and they could then smoothly launch it, firmly establishing themselves in the biopharmaceutical industry, building their own laboratory, and then vigorously recruiting scientific talent, transforming these resources with immense potential into power in his hands.
He hadn't forgotten that the vast treasure trove of Mutants awaited him. However, Sean hadn't yet figured out how to deal with the world's most powerful telepath.
"Osborn Industries is already expediting the process. Did you know, Sean, after the press conference ended, the company's stock price immediately stopped falling and started to soar! According to internal company assessments, based on the sales performance of similar drugs previously launched, it's projected to reach four billion US dollars!"
Harry said excitedly. The heavy pressure that had been weighing on his shoulders could finally be eased a little. Osborn Industries had gained a chance to breathe, and the business empire his father had painstakingly built over a lifetime would not collapse in his hands.
Sean blinked. He wasn't as excited as Harry. Such a generous return had been within his expectations; it was just the beginning anyway.
"Remember to apply for a patent with the PTO." Sean sat in Harry's office for a while. After discussing the current review process for ALZ-112 and the general situation after its launch, they prepared to leave.
One phase of work was now complete. After finishing his current tasks, Sean, walking on the street, suddenly thought if he should go explore Hell's Kitchen. After all, he could still earn system points.
Daredevil, Punisher, Iron Fist, Luke Cage, Jessica Jones…
These were all big point gains! Thinking of the dazzling array of items in the store, Sean couldn't help but feel tempted. If that was the case, why not start with these street heroes?
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