Three days later.
The space mission concluded successfully.
At least, from Nolan's perspective, it had.
There was still plenty of time before Doom Technologies' ship would launch. For now, all he needed was to refine his experiments.
Once he returned to Earth, the tall blonde secretary immediately approached him.
"Boss, you're finally back."
Nolan laughed heartily. Anyone could tell he was in an excellent mood.
Though she didn't know the exact reason for his happiness, the secretary still spoke quickly.
"Boss, do you know how many units of Big White have sold?"
"Three hundred thousand?"
Nolan answered confidently, estimating based on the market in his home universe.
"Eight hundred thousand!"
Even Nolan was stunned by the news. The number exceeded his estimate by more than double.
"Looks like we won't be short on money for much longer."
His joy only increased, though he still felt a twinge of regret. The number reflected insufficient marketing for Big White. With more promotional funding, he could have converted Big White into massive profits even faster.
Perhaps it was time to consider seeking investors.
Nolan pondered for a moment. With the company structure in place and Rock Technologies' brand recognition, securing investment shouldn't be too difficult.
He already had a clear target in mind. This kind of foolproof investment would be perfect for obtaining additional resources, especially to support his superpower experiments.
From what he understood, Victor Von Doom agreed to invest in Reed Richards' research not out of goodwill, but because his company faced difficulties. It was an investment guaranteed not to fail but also aimed at his rival, Reed Richards.
Relaxing at home, Nolan dialed Susan Storm.
"Hi, Susan."
"Hi, Nolan. It's rare to hear from you," Susan replied, her voice carrying a hint of annoyance.
Nolan hadn't been idle during this time. Though they'd met only a few times, they had multiple discussions regarding gamma particles.
Susan Storm was undoubtedly a brilliant scientist. Yet, somehow, her official role remained that of a secretary, both at Doom Technologies and within the Fantastic Four.
Catching her subtle complaint, Nolan cleared his throat.
"Remember the controllable mutation experiments I mentioned? Recently, I conducted an outer-space experiment using a Stark Industries ship. Fortunately, I obtained some very important results."
Susan's voice reflected genuine surprise.
"But that's not why I called today. I have some business to discuss."
"What business?"
"Collaboration cooperation with Doom Technologies."
Susan's voice fell silent, processing this.
Nolan wasn't surprised. He continued:
"I run a company called Rock Technologies. You might have heard of Big White. Due to our limited company background, we want to attract new investment to fund marketing and production."
"Rock Technologies is your company?"
Susan's tone betrayed her astonishment. She had considered the possibility when she first heard the name, but it was hard to believe someone so deeply versed in gamma research also ran a robotics company. Truly a genius.
There were many cross-disciplinary scientists, but few achieved significant results in multiple fields. In her memory, only a select few, like Tony Stark and Reed Richards, had managed it.
"Could you arrange a meeting with Victor Von Doom for me?" Nolan asked.
"Of course. You're basically bringing money to Doom Technologies," she said, a teasing note in her voice.
"And there happens to be a beautiful Susan Storm there," Nolan replied.
Susan blushed at the comment.
They set a time, and Nolan arrived at Doom Technologies.
Though a young company, Doom Technologies had grown rapidly thanks to Victor Von Doom's extraordinary abilities. His presence was even immortalized in a statue within the company, underscoring his authority.
Rapid growth, however, meant foundations were not entirely secure. In comparison, Stark Industries also faced challenges, but without a traitor like Obadiah Stane, it would never have encountered such a crisis.
These matters, however, were of no concern to Nolan.
Susan greeted him, and Nolan smiled.
"Would you like to grab a meal later?"
Susan hesitated.
"I want to discuss the latest research on gamma particles. Most importantly…" Nolan paused for effect.
"My treat!"
He grinned broadly.
"Of course. I'm looking forward to this free lunch," Susan replied, amused.
Inside Victor Von Doom's office, Doom stood as Nolan entered. Though his expression was calm, Nolan could see the stress underlying his composure. Doom was clearly facing a crisis.
"Mr. Doom," Nolan greeted, shaking his hand.
"This visit is mainly for a mutually beneficial cooperation. You're aware of Rock Technologies' situation: rapid growth has strained internal funds. I hope we can collaborate to address this issue."
"Of course. I'm looking forward to this cooperation," Victor responded warmly.
He understood this was an important opportunity. If the partnership succeeded, even if Reed Richards' experiments failed, his position within Doom Technologies would remain secure.
For Rock Technologies, options were more plentiful. While a win-win agreement was easy to reach, Nolan's true objective lay elsewhere.
"Mr. Doom, I heard Doom Technologies has a spacecraft that hasn't launched yet?"
"That's correct," Victor nodded, his expression darkening at the topic. Without this project, he wouldn't be facing the current predicament.
A faint smile crossed Nolan's face.
"Rock Technologies would like to participate when the spacecraft launches. I have experiments that must be conducted in space."
Victor instantly understood Nolan's purpose but did not object.
"Of course," Victor said without hesitation. The project was practically abandoned. There would be ample space on the ship to accommodate Nolan's experiments, even alongside Reed Richards' work.
Moreover, Doom Technologies would gain extra income from the arrangement a win for all parties. Nolan seemed like a blessing in disguise.
How they first met was another story. Victor glanced at Susan, his gaze clearly affectionate, though she remained oblivious. She had no feelings for Victor beyond friendship.
Had Nolan not appeared, perhaps she might have considered Victor. But now, she was captivated by Nolan. Despite their short acquaintance, Nolan's intelligence, charm, and social grace had drawn her in.
She had always been attracted to capable men the reason she once admired Reed Richards. Now, another genius appeared, this one emotionally adept, naturally drawing her attention.
Even if subtle, it was enough to dissuade her from giving Victor a chance.
Both parties left the meeting satisfied.
As they departed, Susan said, "I'll see him out."
Victor was momentarily surprised but didn't comment.
Outside, Nolan checked the time.
"Lunch time. What do you feel like eating?"
Susan was beautiful, with a striking figure. Nolan's words were always smooth with attractive women, especially those who could be helpful to him.
"I know a great French restaurant. If you don't mind, we could go there," Nolan suggested.
"Sure," she agreed.
They walked to the restaurant together. Over the meal, Nolan asked:
"Do you know Reed Richards?"
"We were classmates," Susan answered casually. College feelings occasionally stirred, but she had long moved on.
"When I joined Stark Industries' space program, I competed with Reed for the position. Thanks to his silver tongue, I got it instead. His research is impressive, though. If Doom has no other options, investing in him might be worthwhile."
Susan quickly guessed the prior conflict between Nolan and Reed. She had assumed Reed caused trouble, yet she was surprised Nolan would help a rival.
Noticing her astonishment, Nolan added:
"Although Reed has a sharp tongue, his genius is undeniable. Success would greatly advance human understanding. I won't let personal dislike cloud my judgment, and I don't expect his gratitude."
Contrast.
The word struck Susan immediately. Reed would never have done such a thing for someone he disliked.
What she didn't know was Nolan's true intention. While planning to collaborate with Victor, he also needed to establish goodwill with the Fantastic Four.
Who mattered most? Not Reed, not anyone else, but Susan Storm herself.
She was Johnny's sister, Reed's partner, and even Victor's love interest.
With her favor, Nolan could maneuver both among the Fantastic Four and before Doctor Doom.
Everything he said was also a subtle signal for Reed Richards. If his plan failed, he might still gain allies among the Fantastic Four.
Pragmatic, yes, but effective a simple, perfect plan.
The only complication?
He hadn't expected Susan Storm might be developing feelings for him.