Marvel: Alchemist

Chapter 25: Laying the Foundations of the Future

Summer 1987 – Nevada

Golden Aerospace had grown into a juggernaut of technological advancement. Situated deep in the Nevada desert, its sprawling research and development complex buzzed with activity. Engineers, scientists, and alchemists worked tirelessly under Edward Lin's watchful eye, pushing the limits of what was possible. With Kryptonium alloys reinforcing experimental spacecraft, the future of space travel was no longer a question of "if" but "when."

Edward stood atop the command center's observation deck, looking down at the latest test site. A sleek, dark-hued spacecraft rested on the launchpad—a prototype unlike anything else on Earth. The fusion of alchemical enhancement and cutting-edge engineering had birthed something unprecedented. It was time for the first real test.

"Are we ready?" Edward asked.

William Lin, now a grown man of 28, nodded. "Systems are green across the board. The Kryptonium alloy held up under stress simulations beyond expected limits. This ship won't just reach orbit—it'll redefine the industry."

Edward's lips curled slightly. His son had inherited his intellect, his ambition, and his unwavering determination.

"Then let's begin."

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The Birth of the Future

The test was a success. As the prototype pierced the sky, breaking through the stratosphere with ease, a new era began. Governments and private investors alike took notice. Golden Aerospace was no longer an ambitious project; it was a revolutionary force.

Edward wasted no time. He leveraged the test's success into securing unprecedented funding and partnerships. By 1989, Golden Aerospace had secured contracts from both NASA and private industries seeking to ride the wave of innovation.

Evelyn Lin, overseeing business negotiations, reviewed the latest reports. "The U.S. government wants exclusive rights to our propulsion technology," she said, setting the files down on Edward's desk.

Edward didn't look up from his notes. "Deny them."

She raised an eyebrow. "You sure? They're offering a fortune."

"I don't need their money. I need freedom."

Evelyn smirked. "Then we move forward on our own."

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A Shift in Power

While Golden Aerospace flourished, the corporate world grew uneasy. Stark Industries, still at the forefront of global technology, found itself facing a rising competitor in a field it had long dominated. Howard Stark had once been a visionary, but with Tony Stark still years away from taking the helm, Stark Industries lacked direction.

Edward's 3.7% stake in Stark Industries gave him access to its inner workings. He played his role carefully, never overstepping but always influencing. His goal was not to take over but to integrate. He understood that the real future was not competition but synergy.

By 1990, murmurs of a new frontier filled the air. Space was no longer just for governments; it was for those bold enough to seize it.

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The Unknown Awaits

Standing at the edge of the launch platform one evening, Edward watched as the second-generation spacecraft was prepped for a manned test. William joined him, silent for a moment before speaking.

"You ever think about what's out there?"

Edward smirked. "Every day."

William exhaled. "Then let's go find out."

The stars above shone brighter than ever.

To Be Continued...