Chapter 309:
Ronan spun toward her, fury blazing in his eyes. “You insolent girl! That is the result of years of effort from our researchers!”
“Rylie’s research was done in a lab I set up,” explained Brad in a flat tone. “I placed 24-hour surveillance inside the lab. The footage has already been forwarded to Minister Norris for review.”
“The technicians have confirmed that this equipment is entirely her own work,” Carter replied, his gaze fixed on Rylie. “You should not assume I would take Brad’s side on matters like this. I simply recognize that Rylie is a young woman of extraordinary talent.”
Ronan shot back, “So what? Without my permission, you have no right to use this equipment! If you dare use it, you’ll be infringing on my rights, and I will sue you to the bitter end! On top of that, I will shut down every piece of equipment on the warship!”
It was nothing short of a direct threat.
Rowell raised his point. “If that’s the situation, we can’t just take someone else’s patented technology as our own. Why not allocate the upgraded device to Ronan’s medical firm, while still allowing military usage?”
The Navy Commander-in-Chief narrowed his eyes. “So you’re proposing we turn over the young woman’s hard-earned research to Ronan and let him claim all the credit? You defend Ronan’s patent rights, but would you really cast aside her accomplishments so easily?”
Rowell pushed back. “Is there truly no way to satisfy both parties?”
Ronan offered confidently, “Then why not let Rylie join my company as a technician? That would solve everything.”
Carter glanced toward Brad. “What’s your view?”
Brad’s voice remained composed, yet every word carried a quiet, commanding weight. “Ronan’s medical company isn’t qualified to have my girl work under them.”
Carter pondered for a moment before speaking. “We initially discussed Brad’s health status. Since the equipment is fine, his health is up to standard, and it’s been certified by the military hospital, he will retain command over the oilfield operations. As for the medical equipment…” Carter slowly turned toward Rylie. “Miss, if you are capable of developing new medical systems, how do you intend to manage the yearly upgrade expenses?”
Rylie answered plainly, “At no cost.”
“At no cost?” Carter repeated, visibly surprised.
Rylie calmly scanned the room, her gaze meeting the eyes of every officer present. Her voice rang out, steady and unwavering. “This is about protecting our nation and the lives of our soldiers. How could I possibly ask for compensation for that? What I want is straightforward: I want no soldier to ever be left untreated due to faulty diagnostics. And I want those who exploit monopolized technologies to stop turning the lives of soldiers into tools for profit.”
The medical bay grew still, her words lingering in the air. A faint flicker of emotion crossed the Navy Commander-in-Chief’s eyes, and several generals who had once served at the front unconsciously straightened in their seats. Rylie spoke again, her tone steady. “A one-time payment will suffice. From then on, all future maintenance and upgrades will be free of charge, backed by a lifetime warranty.”
Did money truly matter to her? As her eyes scanned the room, meeting the gazes of soldiers and officers visibly affected by her sincerity, Rylie realized that what she had gained today was a web of support more valuable than any financial reward.
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