Building a Business Empire with my Technological System
Chapter 180: The News of Death

Michael Reyes sat in his leather armchair, a glass of scotch resting on the side table. The gentle clinking of ice cubes against the glass accompanied the low hum of the television. He kept the volume low, just enough to hear the newscaster's words over the occasional crackle of the fire in the corner of the room.

The screen showed a well-dressed news anchor, his expression somber, as he began reading the latest headlines.

"Breaking news from Beijing, China," he announced. "A prominent Chinese businessman and billionaire, Wei Chen, CEO of CinkoSolar, was found dead earlier this evening. Authorities report that Mr. Chen was discovered lying dead in the street. The cause of death appears to be a gunshot wound to the head. Police are treating the incident as a possible robbery gone wrong."

Michael sipped his scotch, the warmth of the liquor spreading through his chest. He watched the news anchor with a steady gaze, noting the various images flashing on the screenshots of the crime scene, police vehicles with flashing lights, and a crowd of onlookers gathered at the cordoned-off area.

"Details are scarce at this point," the anchor continued, "but sources close to the investigation suggest that Mr. Chen's personal belongings were taken, including his cellphone and wallet. Local law enforcement is urging anyone with information to come forward as they continue their search for suspects."

The screen switched to a reporter on the ground, standing near the scene. Behind her, officers and forensic teams worked to gather evidence.

"The death of Wei Chen has sent shockwaves through the business community in Beijing," she said. "Mr. Chen was a well-known figure in the renewable energy industry, and his sudden death has raised concerns about safety and security in the city."

Michael's expression remained impassive as he listened to the reporter interview a local business leader.

"Wei Chen was a giant in the solar energy field," the man said, his face etched with concern. "His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. We're all in shock."

The camera cut back to the news anchor in the studio. "The Chinese government has yet to release an official statement regarding Wei Chen's death. However, experts speculate that this incident could have broader implications for the renewable energy sector and the stability of the business environment in China."

Michael set down his glass, his eyes fixed on the screen as the anchor outlined the ongoing investigation.

"Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses in an attempt to piece together the events leading up to Mr. Chen's death," he said. "Security experts warn that high-profile cases like this require a thorough investigation to ensure justice is served."

As the news segment drew to a close, Michael reached for the remote, his finger hovering over the power button. He paused, listening to the final words from the anchor.

"We'll bring you more updates as the story unfolds. Stay tuned for the latest developments in this ongoing investigation."

With a click, the television went dark, leaving only the crackling fire and the distant sounds of the city night beyond the windows. A heavy sigh escaped from his lips. It was he who gave the go signal to eliminate Wei but he forced his hand. Wei was the one who tried to kill him first, he was just returning the favor.

Then, his phone chimed. He didn't bother looking at the caller ID because he knew who it would be.

"Mr. Reyes, I believe you have seen the news," Carter said on the other end of the line. "I wanted to update you on the situation. The authorities are treating it as a robbery gone wrong, as planned. There's no indication that anyone suspects anything unusual. We're in the clear."

Michael leaned back in his chair, the leather creaking slightly under his weight. "Good. How are we doing on cleanup?"

"Everything's been handled," Carter replied. "We took care of the CCTV footage, and the evidence at the scene has been managed to support the robbery narrative. The car's been abandoned in a way that fits the story, and the local police are none the wiser."

Michael nodded to himself, satisfied with the progress report. "Any word on who might try to fill Wei's shoes? I want to know who to keep an eye on."

"Not yet," Carter answered. "It's too soon for anyone to make a move. But we'll keep our ears to the ground. If anyone tries to capitalize on Wei's death, you'll be the first to know."

"All right," Michael replied, his tone measured. "Keep me informed of any developments. And, Carter—make sure no one replaces out about our involvement. I don't want this blowing back on us."

"Understood, Mr. Reyes. We've covered our tracks," Carter assured him. "I'll be in touch with any further updates."

The call ended with a soft click, leaving Michael alone in the quiet of his study. He sat in contemplation. Now that Wei Chen is dead, it's certain that the predecessor would be more gullible. Wei was the force that prompted the Chinese Trade Ministry to ban imports of solar panels. With him gone, the Chinese Trade Industry might be more open to discussions with foreign companies like Michael's.

It was a chance to enter the Chinese market through a backdoor.

The thought brought a slight smirk to Michael's lips as he considered the possibilities.

Should his company enter the Chinese market, it would guarantee the completion of his mission that he had been trying to finish since the system was given to him. That 200,000 system points would be more than enough to buy more futuristic technologies and possibly allow him to enter another enterprise.

His phone chimed again and this time, Michael glanced at the screen. It was Juliet.

"Mr. Reyes, I've just received an invitation for you," she began. "You've been scheduled to receive the Nobel Prize in London on December 30th. It's for your inventions."

Michael raised his eyebrows in surprise. Though he had expected he'd receive them in the near future, he didn't expect it to be so soon.

"Really? What an honor," Michael replied. "Well, I want you to arrange my flight, invite Bridget, Mrs. Estolas, and my mom. I want them to come with me to London."

"Understood, Mr. Reyes. That would be all. Is there anything you'd want me to do?"

"Nothing in particular," Michael said.

"Very well, I'll be ending the call now."