Chapter 567 A proposal (3)
The ensuing 60 minutes were a whirlwind of intricate bargaining. Contracts were examined, monetary amounts were tossed back and forth, and clauses were negotiated. They could walk out of the office, knowing they had struck an agreement that could not be broken.
Erik felt the thrilling high that always came before a good business transaction as he sat on Lysa's office chair.
This partnership represented yet another significant achievement in the development of his guild. However, despite everything he had achieved up to this point, he was fully aware of the difficulties ahead. This may seem like a modest success to some, but for a single individual, it was a fantastic way to launch their firm.
Building trust, overseeing operations, and ensuring everything was perfectly carried out were enormous tasks. On the other side, Erik Kay was capable of completing the work. Despite this, he knew he would require help in the future.
After they had finished their conversation, Lysa turned to the intercom that was located on her desk.
"Jerome, please bring the V-12 Vans to the front parking area." Her voice was warm this time, as it was clear that she was happy with their agreement.
"Will do, Miss. They'll be ready in no time," came the vibrant, reassuring reply.
Lysa led Erik into the building's maze of corridors, their footfall echoing off the polished floors. When they stepped outdoors in the parking lot of Lysa's shop, the city's refreshing temperature greeted them like an old friend.
A layer of gray clouds covered the sky, obstructing the sun's rays and giving the cityscape a subdued hue.
Erik's coat flew in the brisk breeze as they entered the building, and he followed Lysa into the spacious parking lot. Although only a few vehicles were parked there, the space could easily accommodate a more significant number.
Jerome acknowledged them with a nod, wiping his hands on his dark trousers. "These are the ones, Miss Lysa," he said, his voice rough yet respectful.
Erik surveyed the Vans, impressed. They appeared immaculate and well-suited for the job they were going to perform.
Lysa gestured toward the row of parked vehicles, their exteriors gleaming under the soft glow of the outdoor lighting. "Here they are," she declared, a note of pride coloring her words. Erik's eyes roved over each of the four Vans, absorbing their features.
The parking lot, largely vacant except for a smattering of other vehicles, began to hum softly. Erik watched as the four Vans gracefully rolled into their designated spots, aligning perfectly. Seeing them in motion only amplified their allure—they were sleek and contemporary and radiated an undeniable sense of capability.
Each Van was a marvel of design, balancing functionality with aesthetic appeal. Coated in a polished gray coat, they exuded both elegance and durability. The front was expansive, featuring aerodynamic curves and state-of-the-art LED headlights that, as much as Lysa said, automatically adjusted their luminosity based on the surrounding light conditions.
The sides of the Vans were equipped with large, sliding doors, offering effortless access to the roomy interiors. Inside, an intelligent cargo management system promises efficient organization and transportation of goods. In Erik's specific case, this meant an optimized space for the bodies he would transport and sell to the woman.
Erik felt satisfied as he stood there, taking it all in. This deal, he knew, was more than just an acquisition of vehicles; it was a strategic move, one that would play a pivotal role in the future of his operations. To start a guild, he needed more money, and to do so, he needed various things. Still, the most important was a means to cut his expenses and automate the process of corpse retrieval to the maximum.
The standout feature that caught Erik's eye was the hybrid nature of the Vans. Not only could they traverse the ground, but they could also hover just above it, thanks to an advanced propulsion system.
Only a few vehicles did this, and most Porter companies didn't provide such vehicles to all their customers. That didn't mean the Vans they used were bad or uncomfortable.
Outfitted with cutting-edge hover technology, these vehicles were ideally suited for the world's diverse terrain, promising a smooth ride in all circumstances. Erik noticed the bluish glow from the hover pads beneath each Van, signaling they were in standby mode.
Lysa broke into his reverie. "As I said, they're also equipped with an integrated AI system," she added. "It helps with navigation, provides real-time traffic updates in the city, and even includes some diagnostic tools for mechanical issues. They allow communication with whatever place you want and can even reply to your questions."
Erik nodded, thoroughly impressed. These weren't just modes of transportation; they were technological masterpieces. He approached the closest Van and let his fingers glide over its sleek surface, feeling the chill of the metal. Every aspect of these vehicles had been meticulously crafted for a specific purpose.
Lysa grinned, clearly pleased. "I hope they live up to your expectations, Erik."
He could only nod in agreement. The Vans had indeed exceeded his expectations. "They're amazing," he finally said, turning back to Lysa, who looked delighted with his response.
"They're among the best available right now. I have no doubt they'll serve you well," she assured him.
Erik took one last look at the Vans, already picturing how seamlessly they would integrate into his future plans. This was more than an investment; it was a game-changing move.
As they stood among the gleaming vehicles, Erik posed another question. "When can you provide details about the two teams I'm interested in hiring?"
Lysa pondered momentarily, her eyes drifting over the sprawling parking lot as the day's last light danced in her eyes. "Give me a week," she finally said. "I have some industry contacts who might know of experienced drivers seeking new opportunities. Given the nature of your business, we need people who can handle its unique challenges."
Erik nodded, fully grasping the need for reliable and skilled drivers. "A week it is. I'll be waiting for your call."
They started walking back toward the building, their footsteps echoing harmoniously on the concrete. The early evening wind tousled Lysa's hair and fluttered the collar of Erik's coat.
Pausing at the entrance, Erik had one more point to clarify. "I want to make sure our partnership remains under wraps. It's not just about business; it's about ensuring everything goes smoothly."
Lysa looked him straight in the eyes. "You have my word, Erik. Trust is the bedrock of all we do in our line of work. I won't let you down."
Erik offered a subtle smile, appreciating her forthrightness. Both were acutely aware of the high stakes and the critical role of discretion in their burgeoning partnership. The cornerstone of their business alliance had been laid, and the path ahead seemed filled with promise.
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