CHAPTER 69: IT’S NOT EASY TO BE SATISFIED QUICKLY, IT’S THE KEY TO RAPID SUCCESS

Alaric didn’t turn a blind eye to these facts. He understood how public failure could weigh heavily on a company, especially when reputation was at stake. But that was exactly where he saw an opening: a chance to help them rebuild their image.

"If I come to them with a new idea, they might be hesitant because of their past failure. But this healthcare robot... they might see it as a second chance. A way to redeem themselves."

"They can prove to the world that their technology wasn’t useless, it just needed to be directed down the right path."

In his mind, a picture began to form. A collaboration where he brought the vision, and Brightmind brought the machines, tools, and experience. Together, they could create something truly groundbreaking.

Alaric imagined what it would mean if this caregiver robot came to life. Patients would no longer feel alone. Families wouldn’t have to worry about leaving their loved ones for a while. Hospitals could redirect their staff toward more critical tasks.

And Brightmind? They could rise again, stepping out of the shadow of scandal and into the spotlight once more—perhaps even earning praise as pioneers.

Alaric smiled and leaned back in his chair, letting out a slow breath. He could feel the familiar rush he always felt when he discovered a new path in his projects.

He closed all the news tabs and saved the research history into a special folder labeled: "Brightmind – Potential Collaboration."

The night grew deeper, but his mind showed no sign of slowing down. On the contrary, he felt even more energized, already planning his next steps. How to approach the company, who to contact, and what to offer that might just convince them to open the door to a new partnership.

Two days later.

Alaric had finally found a window in his packed schedule. He knew he couldn’t afford to delay much longer—taking the first step sooner meant a greater chance of opening new doors.

That morning, dressed in a simple but sharp suit, he set out accompanied by Siera—his trusted assistant who always stood by his side during important matters.

The Brightmind Robotics building towered over the city’s business district. Its glass facade reflected the sunlight, adding to the building’s modern yet authoritative presence. Alaric paused for a moment to glance up at the company’s bold logo displayed across the front. It felt like he was staring at both a rival and a potential ally. There was a challenge waiting inside.

As they stepped into the main lobby, the professional atmosphere hit immediately. Alaric instinctively adjusted his posture, his steps becoming slightly more formal. Rows of neatly arranged guest chairs lined the space, and a receptionist greeted them with a polite smile.

After introducing himself, Alaric was asked to wait for a moment.

It didn’t take long before a man in his mid-twenties approached them. He was elegantly dressed in a navy suit and a simple black tie. A touch of gray streaked his hair near the temples, but his eyes were sharp and calculating.

"Alaric," he said, extending his hand with a courteous smile. "I’m Edward Langston, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Brightmind Robotics. It’s a pleasure to finally meet in person. Let’s talk somewhere more private."

Siera discreetly noted down the name on her tablet as Alaric calmly shook Edward’s hand. From the very first moment, he could sense this man was different—not easily impressed by fame, but someone accustomed to staying emotionally neutral when dealing with high-profile figures in the industry.

They made their way to the elevator. The short ride to the upper floors passed in silence, broken only by the quiet hum of the machinery. Alaric chose not to initiate small talk. He understood that someone like Edward valued professionalism over unnecessary pleasantries.

Once on the top floor, Edward led them into a spacious office with large glass windows overlooking the city. The space was understated in its decor. A long wooden desk, a bookshelf filled with tech literature, and a few modestly displayed company awards.

"Please, have a seat," Edward gestured toward the chairs across from his desk. Alaric placed a slim folder on the table, taking a moment to steady his breathing. He wanted to pace his words carefully. Siera took a seat slightly to the side, preparing her notes and supporting materials.

Edward leaned back in his chair, his gaze locked on Alaric. "So, as you mentioned in your email, you’re here to discuss a potential partnership. Go ahead, I’m listening."

Alaric straightened in his seat, his voice clear and deliberate.

"That’s right, Mr. Langston. I represent my company, Craftpartner Technologies. As I briefly mentioned before, I believe there’s an opportunity for collaboration between us. Not just a typical business opportunity, but one that could bring real impact to the healthcare field."

Edward gave a slight nod, his expression unreadable. He was already well aware of who Alaric was—had read various articles about him, about his reputation as a sharp young CEO. But he didn’t show any overt admiration. For him, the negotiation table wasn’t a place for fandom. It was a space to measure what was actually achievable.

Alaric continued, choosing his words carefully.

"I know Brightmind has long been in the robotics field. I’m also aware that a recent project... may not have gone as expected. But I don’t see that as a failure. In my view, it proves your company is willing to push further ahead than many of your competitors. And that kind of boldness, I believe, can be redirected toward something new."

For the first time, Edward’s expression showed a flicker of interest, though his face remained composed. "You speak as if you’ve already mapped something out. What exactly are you proposing?"

Alaric pulled the folder toward him and opened to the first page, revealing a rough sketch. It showed the early framework of a robot, with brief notes outlining its core functions.

"A caregiving robot," he said confidently. "An automated system designed to assist the sick or those in recovery. Not just a basic medical assistant, but a unit capable of performing essential tasks with precision—administering medication, aiding in light mobility, even detecting emergencies through vital sensors. In short, a health companion robot."

The room went quiet. Edward stared at the sketch. He didn’t respond right away, but it was clear he was giving it serious thought. Alaric stayed calm, waiting, while Siera noted down the key points of the discussion.

Eventually, Edward spoke, his voice even but firm.

"This idea is... interesting. But surely, Alaric, you understand that building a caregiving robot involves more than just body mechanics and sensors. There are data privacy issues, strict healthcare regulations, and psychological hurdles—how do you get patients to accept care from a machine, not a human? Are you sure you’ve accounted for all that?"

Alaric gave a small, knowing smile—as if he’d been expecting the question all along.

"That’s exactly why I’m here, Mr. Langston. I’m not saying I can do this alone. But I’m confident that with Brightmind’s foundation, and Craftpartner’s vision and approach, we can complement each other. I bring the vision, you bring the engineering muscle and field experience. Together, it’s more than just an idea—it becomes a viable path."

Edward leaned back again, eyes flicking from the sketch back to Alaric, as if trying to read more than just the words. He wanted to see the responsibility and intent behind the young man’s ambition.

Alaric’s hands were calmly folded in front of him, and his voice remained composed and respectful.

"Here’s the thing, sir," he said slowly. "I originally began working on a new tech innovation that, in my opinion, addresses a very real global need. I’ve already started outlining the core structure, even if it’s just in the early sketch and framework phase."

He paused for a moment, meeting Edward’s gaze. "And then... as I dug deeper, I discovered that the concept bore similarities to something your company had previously attempted. In fact, some of the technical aspects are remarkably alike. That’s when it hit me—this could be a joint effort. Brightmind Robotics and Craftpartner could work together to build something that could redefine the field."

Edward didn’t respond immediately. His hawk-like eyes scanned Alaric’s face. He knew who the young man in front of him was—some saw him as a genius, others said he moved too fast, too boldly.

"Redefining a field?" Edward repeated softly, his tone measured and cautious. "That’s quite the ambition. But what exactly is the technology you’re envisioning?"

It was a simple question—but one that demanded specifics. Alaric knew this was the first real test, to see whether his idea was just a dream or something grounded in reality.

He pulled out another sheet, revealing a more detailed diagram. This time, he let the silence stretch just a few seconds longer, making sure Edward’s full attention was on what lay before him.

"A caregiving robot," Alaric answered, firm and direct.

For the first time, Edward’s usually composed face shifted slightly. His eyebrows lifted faintly, his gaze sharpening. He clearly hadn’t expected a concept so deeply embedded in the medical field—a sector notorious for its complexity and stringent oversight.

"A caregiving robot?" Edward repeated, this time with a tone that hinted at genuine curiosity.