Levi and Norman Osborn posed for reporters before heading inside the company. With enough photos taken and remarks made, Levi ensured the headlines would attract attention. Mentioning Tony Stark was always a surefire way to boost interest.
Levi guided Norman Osborn around the company, curious about his collaboration interest. Confident in his products, Levi was eager to learn more.
Upstairs, Norman mentioned, "Lee, I heard Otto works for you?"
"Yes," Levi nodded, recalling Otto and Norman's past collaboration.
"I haven't seen him in a while. He's an old friend," Norman continued.
Since they were old friends, Levi led Norman to Dr. Otto's lab.
Norman remarked, "This lab is much bigger than the last. Otto seems to be doing well."
Entering the lab, they found Dr. Otto, slightly balding and looking weary in his lab coat, in stark contrast to Norman's polished appearance.
Once poor students, their paths had diverged: the Osborne Group became a giant, while Otto remained in academia.
Seeing Norman, Otto's expression turned cold. "Norman, what do you want?"
Norman replied, "Just visiting. Didn't expect you to be unchanged."
Otto's face flushed with anger at the insinuation of stagnation. "I have work to do."
Otto had developed a brain-computer interface but hadn't tested it yet.
Levi intervened, "Let's head to the office, Mr. Osborn."
Protective of Otto, Levi led Norman away, regretting bringing him there.
In the office, 2B served coffee, raising Norman's curiosity. "Why doesn't this lady need eyes?"
"Special circumstances," Levi explained, realizing 2B needed a change to avoid suspicion.
Once 2B left, Levi asked, "What kind of cooperation did you have in mind, Mr. Osborn?"
Norman straightened, sincerity in his smile. "I need your help."
"With what?" Levi asked, expecting business orders.
"Running for mayor."
Norman Osborn leaned forward, elbows on the desk, his presence commanding. But it was Levi's domain, and he remained unfazed, leaning back.
"Mayor? Interesting. Continue," Levi said, intrigued.
Elections were approaching, and Norman Osborn's candidacy piqued Levi's interest.
Norman explained, "If elected, I'd allocate billions to aid the disabled and prioritize AI development."
Big corporations back politicians to gain influence and resources.
Norman's offer was clear: support him, and Levi would gain policy backing and funding.
The potential windfall surpassed Future Technology's hard-earned profits.
Making money in America meant tapping into American resources.
Levi was tempted by the idea of mutual benefit—helping Norman win, and in return, reaping rewards.
"This is how America works," Levi thought, considering the proposal.
Levi asked cautiously, "Who are your competitors?"
"Just one notable rival," Norman replied seriously.
"Who?" Levi inquired.
"Kingpin."
Norman's words puzzled Levi. "Isn't he a gangster?"
"He's cleaned up his image," Norman said disdainfully. "Many foolishly buy his 'reformed' persona."
Kingpin, an underground boss, had laundered his wealth, transforming into a respected capitalist.
America's landscape allowed for such reinventions, Levi mused.
Choosing between Kingpin and Norman, Levi favored Norman.
"What do I need to do?" Levi asked.
"Just publicly support me. You have a lot of fans," Norman said with a grin.
Financial backing was implied. Political donations were legal, and investing in campaigns was an American norm.
Levi smiled, acknowledging his own use of Tony Stark's popularity. Now, Norman wanted to leverage Levi's.
In New York, Levi and Tony Stark were more popular than many celebrities.
As a capitalist, Levi understood Norman's approach.
In America, sharing opportunities was essential. Success required collective support.
Norman's success hinged on alliances, as his opponent was not just one person but a network.
"Pleased to work with you," Levi agreed, shaking hands with Norman.
Unforeseen benefits of popularity became clear.
Like other influencers, Levi's reach translated into power.
Norman Osborn and Levi solidified their partnership, their handshake symbolizing shared ambition.