William knew that as long as he didn't sabotage himself, money would never be an issue for him. With over $20 billion in cash sitting idly in his accounts and the resources of the X17 planet at his disposal, he could independently produce spacecraft, robots, and other high-cost items.
On top of this, once the gold and other precious metals from Mars were brought back to Earth, even limiting the annual sales to maintain financial and market stability, generating $10-20 billion a year would be effortless.
With money becoming increasingly meaningless to him, the idea of playing around with a dinosaur theme park seemed harmless.
And if the park's management and liability for accidents could be handed off to the English government, all the better. William wouldn't have to shoulder the blame if anything went wrong.
"The dinosaur research project is fine by me," William said, feigning nonchalance. "But since I'll be funding two major research initiatives for England, shouldn't I get something in return?
"Or perhaps you'd like to discuss how much annual research funding you're willing to provide me?"
Richard shook his head, exasperated. "Let's not talk about money. You don't need it, and frankly, you wouldn't want us paying you anyway.
"Just tell us what you want. As long as it's reasonable, we'll consider it."
"Why does this feel like I'm begging you for a favor?" William frowned theatrically. "If that's how it is, then once I'm back on Earth, I'll hand over the alien leg bone, and we can conduct our research independently.
"I won't take advantage of you, but don't try to meddle in my business either.
"After all, my family's security forces are more than capable of handling any potential alien incidents. Even if something goes wrong, it won't affect my household."
"You—" Richard was infuriated. "While we're out here bearing the brunt of global pressure for you, could you not muster even a shred of patriotism or gratitude?
"And as a hereditary grand duke, shouldn't you set an example by making some sacrifices for England?"
William smirked at Richard's increasingly red face. The man's performance was almost convincing, but William knew better. Politicians like Richard would only protect him if the benefits outweighed the risks. If it weren't for William's value to England, they would've sold him out long ago.
Mocking, William replied, "You talk as if there are plenty of selfless people in England.
"Tell you what—go ask the other nobles and capitalists.
"If they're willing to donate £10,000 each to England, I'll donate £20,000.
"If they donate £1 million, I'll donate £2 million. How's that for sacrifice?"
"You—!"
Richard was on the verge of exploding but stopped himself.
He knew William was already far more cooperative than most, considering he wasn't actively exploiting England.
But asking him for more money? That was out of the question. The recent establishment of a secret base to study the Cybertronian scorpion robot had drained significant reserves. Setting up another facility for alien research would require funding from Parliament, which would inevitably leak details to the Americans within a day.
Additionally, William's warnings about potential alien-related accidents only deepened Richard's concerns. Unlike the Cybertronian project, alien biological research carried far greater risks to humanity.
Realizing this, Richard began to consider letting William take full responsibility for the alien project, much like the scorpion robot research that only he was privy to.
But he couldn't say this outright. After a moment of thought, Richard said, "We can provide funding, but let me remind you—accepting money from the English government means we'll retain the primary oversight of the alien project.
"We'll monitor the research progress at all times.
"And when the results are ready, forget about selling or even using the product without clearance. Committees will scrutinize everything, and you'll constantly face inquiries and investigations."
Watching William's expression shift, Richard added with a sly smile, "Someone as used to freedom as you wouldn't enjoy that, would you?"
William cursed inwardly. He had hoped to secure some funding while retaining control, but Richard had deftly turned the tables.
If the government took charge, research progress would be heavily scrutinized, and even after successful development, William would face endless hurdles.
In contrast, if he conducted the research independently, he could dictate the pace, methods, and outcomes without interference.
"Fine," William relented, shrugging. "Let's drop the alien research funding discussion for now. We'll revisit it once results are in.
"But shouldn't we talk about dinosaurs?
"Dinosaur cloning doesn't require the same level of secrecy. If we succeed, we could turn it into a commercial venture—a Jurassic Park."
"Jurassic Park?" Richard froze, then grew visibly excited.
Building a dinosaur park in England would cause a global sensation.
It would boost the country's reputation and attract hordes of tourists, significantly bolstering the economy.
As Prime Minister, Richard couldn't ignore the political benefits either. A thriving economy would greatly improve his chances of re-election.
But constructing a theme park would require a substantial investment.
Building it in London would incur exorbitant land costs, while constructing it on an island would reduce land expenses but increase material transport costs.
Glancing at William, Richard quickly realized that negotiating finances with him would be a nightmare.
Letting out a few frustrated sighs, he said, "We'll assign specialists to handle the park negotiations.
"As for the profits, how about a 50/50 split?"
"Fifty-fifty sounds fair," William said with a grin. "But constructing the park will require at least £1 billion for initial development. How will we divide the investment?
"And since you're not paying for the research and are essentially getting a free ride, shouldn't you bear more responsibility?"
Richard's frustration boiled over. "Speak plainly."
"Simple," William replied, his tone turning serious.
"The park's legal entity will be under your government. Security responsibilities will also fall to you.
"In return, I'll give you a 10% stake as a goodwill gesture. The remaining shares will be divided based on investment contributions."
"Are you dreaming, or do you think we're fools? No one will take on the liability for free shares!"
William's smile faded, replaced by a steely expression.
"No investment, no liability, and you still expect a share of the profits? Where in the world does such a good deal exist?"
Richard felt a headache brewing.
He couldn't let go of the project's potential benefits, but the risks made him hesitate.
Sensing Richard's indecision, William pressed on. "I get that no one wants to deal with accidents.
"But we're talking about dinosaurs—not terrorists. If an accident happens, it's just a matter of formalities and paperwork.
"If ordinary people die, it won't just be me, a wealthy man, who faces the consequences.
"And let's not forget—you were appointed after your predecessor's untimely death. Your term is already precarious."
This reminder hit Richard hard. He remained silent, deep in thought.
No matter how bright the potential rewards, he first needed to ensure he could survive the risks.
(End of Chapter)
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