"Congratulations, Mister Chairman." Mayor Thomas Sterling smiled warmly. He extended his right hand.​The golden text floating above the politician faded into the air. Julian knew the truth. The man smiling at him planned to steal his five hundred million dollar empire by tomorrow morning.​Julian shook the extended hand. The grip was firm and practiced. Cameras flashed around the main stage. The press captured the perfect image of political unity.​"Crestwood City owes you a massive debt," the Mayor announced loudly. He made sure the reporters caught every word. "Zenith Pharmaceuticals is the beating heart of our medical infrastructure. You saved thousands of local jobs today."​Julian maintained a polite expression. "I am simply protecting my investments, Thomas."​The Mayor patted Julian on the shoulder. It was a masterclass in public manipulation. He projected the image of a benevolent mentor guiding a new inexperienced billionaire.​"You have a steep learning curve ahead of you,"