As a Magnate, I Started Checking in at a Convenience Store

Chapter 773: Consider It a Test! (2)

Editor: Dragon Boat Translation

Number One nodded at the words. “Hmm, it aligns with our thoughts. After thorough consideration, we’ve decided to place the company in Fog City. At least for the short term, nobody will pay attention to you. Perhaps by the time they notice, the relevant technological research will already be completed!”

Zhou Chao internally rolled his eyes at this. “You’ve already discussed the location, so why ask me again? Are you trying to test me? Really?”

Although his mind was wandering, he put on a surprised expression.

“Leader, if you’ve already decided, why… ” It was time to play dumb.

“Haha, Xiao Lao mentioned that you always think three steps ahead. It was just a whim to test you!” Number One chuckled.

Unintentionally, he felt that his judgment hadn’t been wrong. He had gone against the tide and made Zhou Chao responsible for artificial intelligence, a move that had proven right.

Seeing Number One so delighted, a thought flashed through Zhou Chao’s mind. He quickly said, “Leader, you know that research mainly involves spending money on various materials. Can you support us in that aspect?”

Like a crying child being given milk, Zhou Chao, regardless of his own wealth, wanted to gain some benefit from Number One.

Hearing Zhou Chao’s words, Number One burst out laughing. If he didn’t know Zhou Chao’s background, it would be one thing, but now that he knew this guy had more operational funds than an average provincial finance department, he still had the nerve to ask for assistance?

Was he shameless?

With a displeased look, Number One glanced at Zhou Chao. “You’ve got plenty of money. Do you really need this tiny amount?”

“Ahem, as the saying goes, never let go of an advantage. Although it sounds rough, the logic holds, right?” Zhou Chao felt a bit embarrassed looking at Number One, suddenly recalling that his background had been thoroughly investigated.

Number One jokingly glanced at Zhou Chao. After a moment, he said, “There’s no money, but we can consider other forms of support.”

Upon hearing the prospect of benefits, Zhou Chao’s hands under the table trembled with excitement. He licked his lips and smiled, “Leader, don’t keep us in suspense. Just tell me, what’s the benefit?”

With a slight chuckle, Number One muttered something under his breath. Unfortunately, Zhou Chao didn’t quite catch it, only vaguely hearing the words “naughty little monkey.”

“Alright, enough beating around the bush. Since it’s a new company under your name, you’ll have to invest to get it started. As for support, hmm, how about exempting all taxes for the next five years? How does that sound?”

Upon hearing that all taxes for the next five years would be waived, a gleam flashed in Zhou Chao’s eyes.

“Leader, when you say exempt, does that include all the companies under my umbrella? Hehe, thank you so much, Leader!”

Upon hearing Zhou Chao’s words and seeing his cunning smile, Number One’s smile froze instantly. He quickly clarified, “Ahem, I meant just the artificial intelligence company, not your vast Dragonfly Group!”

“Oh, Leader, I thought it was for the entire group. I got excited for nothing!”

Seeing Zhou Chao’s feigned disappointment, Number One felt an unnamed anger rising from within.

“You, I thought you were a straightforward, good kid, but it turns out you’re a little slippery!”

“Where, where. If I’m not a bit slippery, this huge industry might not be mine one day!”

Number One also grasped the implications but didn’t dwell on them too much. Such concerns were normal.

“Oh, by the way, Director Jiang brought up your request before. After reviewing it, I can agree to it. However, the specific area will depend on the situation of desertification control in the future. If the conversion technology proves to be effective, you can choose your land freely!”

Number One didn’t forget Zhou Chao’s other contribution. The promises that should be made must be fulfilled. After all, handing over this technology to the country, if even such promises couldn’t be kept, it would hurt people’s feelings. In the future, who would dare to report advanced technology?

“With your words, Leader, I feel reassured!” Zhou Chao’s smile grew wider, knowing the promises made by Number One.

“There’s nothing else for today. I mainly called you here to discuss artificial intelligence. I hope you can set up the company framework as soon as possible. Regarding research, I will arrange it promptly. As for related facilities and equipment, just give me a call when you have any requirements!”

Number One took out a business card from his pocket and handed it over.

Without hesitation, Zhou Chao stood up and took the card with both hands. He carefully examined it and noticed that the card only had a phone number, without any other markings.

He carefully tucked the card into his pocket. “Don’t worry, Leader. If there’s any problem, I’ll definitely give you a call!”

At the mention, Number One’s mouth twitched slightly. Normally, others would say they wouldn’t trouble him, but this guy did the opposite.

“Alright, alright, I got it. There’s nothing else. I won’t keep you for lunch. Go back early!” Number One glanced at the time; it was almost noon. He didn’t want to keep Zhou Chao for lunch, lest he lose his appetite later.

Unexpectedly, after Zhou Chao stood up, he just stood there without moving.

“Why are you standing there? Do you want me to escort you out?”