Chapter 114: Channels of Communication

"Very well, I will go and prepare to speak with the tax authorities."

"And contact the Nova Corps to see if they are interested in placing an order."

Sonia had truly witnessed this talent firsthand, but she also knew she needed to venture out. Research and invention were Mr. Tony’s domain, while negotiation fell within her own sphere of responsibility. Only by securing major contracts could she begin to build factories and procure equipment on a large scale.

"You need not be afraid when the time comes."

"If they are unwilling, tell them to come and speak with me directly."

Harvey nodded upon hearing this and spoke up. Although Sonia had joined the Void Sect, she had spent the last six months on the island. She lacked a prominent reputation, which might invite disdain when dealing with such people.

"I will try to reach out first and see if they are willing to look at the samples."

"If it really doesn't work out, I will invoke your name, Mr. Kassadin."

Sonia nodded with a smile. She had great confidence in the new gravity device Mr. Tony had created. Even if the deep-pocketed Nova Corps declined, other companies or diplomatic departments based on Xandar would surely be interested, so Sonia did not feel much pressure.

"Hmm, as long as you have a sense of judgment, go ahead and make the arrangements."

Harvey did not say much more after hearing this.

"Understood."

Sonia nodded and went straight to her room to pick up the cosmic communicator. Creating advanced technology did not mean one could simply sit back and collect money; one had to have channels for sales. If she were to establish a company for production and sales, the assembly lines and operations were minor issues; the real key was the distribution channels.

For small orders, one could simply produce items and spend some money to get things done. But to secure large contracts without connections, it would take the passage of time to gain the recognition of major figures. Even after gaining recognition, one would still need to provide kickbacks and navigate relationships to land a multi-hundred-million-dollar deal.

Not to mention the industry leaders, even large arms corporations could easily cut off the channels of smaller companies by leveraging their own resources and connections. Once a pile of stock sat unsold and capital flow stalled, the competition would move in for a hostile takeover, leaving the lion's share of the profits to others.

Naturally, Sonia would not let Mr. Tony’s products go through such unnecessary detours. Therefore, she sent a message to several senior officers of the Nova Corps. She informed them that a genius inventor had created several more sophisticated and cost-effective gravity devices suitable for small and medium-sized starships and starfighters, and invited them to call back for a detailed discussion if they were interested.

Sonia had worked at the Celebrity Hotel for ten years. Although she hadn’t kept the contact information for every client, she still possessed the details of several influential figures. Immediately, she contacted a former colleague with whom she had a good relationship at the hotel.

"Is that Sonia calling?"

"It’s truly a rarity for her to reach out."

"Don't tell me that big shot who took you away has grown tired of you?"

"You've worked at the Celebrity Hotel for ten years; don't you know how those big shots think? They toss you aside once they're bored."

As soon as the call connected, Sonia was met with sarcastic remarks.

"Senior Sonia, don't mind them."

"Word has come back about you working for Mr. Kassadin and managing Void Island."

"They are just jealous of your success."

Sarah, who was a close colleague of Sonia's, spoke without reserve. After Mr. Kassadin bought the private island known as Void Island, it was only natural for Sonia to sign as the proxy. When news of Sonia acting as a proxy first broke, it had been a source of much ridicule. However, the subsequent reports that Mr. Kassadin rarely appeared and had left the development and management entirely to Sonia—who seemed to enjoy great freedom—made those who had mocked her feel humiliated. Now that Sonia had initiated contact, others were naturally eager to indulge in snide remarks.

"Thank you, Sarah, I understand."

"Mr. Kassadin treats me very well, and I have plenty of freedom."

Sonia hadn't initially realized how she had offended her former colleagues, but hearing Sarah’s words, she understood immediately and a smile appeared on her face.

"Rumor has it you’re looking more beautiful than ever, and I knew you must be doing well. Seeing you now, I see the rumors were true."

"Let's get to the point, Senior Sonia. Why are you looking for me?"

Sarah was a stunning, sexy woman in a red gown with vibrant red hair. Seeing Sonia’s cheerful expression, she also smiled. She knew that Senior Sonia appeared pure, innocent, and harmless, making people feel she was gentle and easy to get along with at first glance. When Sarah had first finished her training and entered the Celebrity Hotel, she had chosen to learn from Sonia specifically because she was deceived by her appearance.

Later, she discovered that Senior Sonia was the most diligent among all the villa managers at the hotel. Because of that earnest personality, Sarah knew Sonia wouldn't be contacting her without a reason. Since she had, there must be something she needed help with.

"I want to..."

Counting from the New Year, Sonia and Sarah had known each other for seven years, so she didn't waste time and asked for the contact information of some major figures on Xandar.

"Hold on, I’ll write you a letter of introduction."

"But I can't guarantee they will all agree."

Sarah didn't refuse, agreeing readily as she walked toward her room. The Celebrity Hotel allowed for specific requests, so the guests served were often different, yet all were people with net worths exceeding one hundred million. The contact signals for these figures were relatively private and restricted; they had to be enabled by the recipient to be viewed, otherwise, even if you knew the signal, the account would show as non-existent. Naturally, a letter of introduction was required to make the party aware, and only with their consent could the contact be added.

"I know, thank you for your help, Sarah."

Sonia nodded gratefully.

"Since you’ve always called me senior, you can be considered my apprentice in some respects."

"Doing you this small favor is no problem at all."

"Find a time to come off the island and let's get together."

"You know the Celebrity Hotel doesn't give us much vacation time."

"Unless I retire just like you, it’s not very realistic for me to come visit you."

Sarah said this without a hint of resentment.

"Alright, when I have the time to venture out, I will stop by to see you."

Sonia agreed.