Chapter 1541: Demand

Roxanne glanced at Lucian, who nodded his affirmation. Completely relaxed, she presented the results of their earlier discussion.

“My proposal is this: Damaris Group provided the medicinal herbs and distribution channel for this collaboration. However, the core technology—the development of this new medicine—belongs almost entirely to the research institute. Considering this, and our experiences with other groups, I suggest a twenty-eighty profit split. The research institute will receive eighty percent.”

As head of the research institute, Roxanne commanded a powerful presence, despite her relative unfamiliarity with business negotiations. Lucian watched, admiration flickering in his eyes. Jack, however, looked utterly bewildered.

“Excuse me,” he said, affecting an air of polite incredulity, “I didn’t quite understand. Ms. Jarvis, you were saying…?”

She calmly reiterated, “The research institute will receive eighty percent of the profits; Damaris Group, twenty percent.”

Jack chuckled. “Are you serious, Ms. Jarvis? That’s all you’re willing to share after Damaris Group’s significant contribution?”

Roxanne’s eyes hardened. “The Damaris family is a venerable institution in traditional medicine. You understand the pharmaceutical field’s realities. Developing the core technology is paramount in medical R&D; the research institute's contribution far outweighs Damaris Group's.”

Jack glanced at Lucian, quickly assessing the situation. This was clearly their pre-arranged strategy.

“Ms. Jarvis,” he said, his tone sharpening, “I initiated this project. Damaris Group provided the medicinal herbs for free. Now you're offering us a pittance? If that's the case, Damaris Group will cease this collaboration.” His face darkened, his voice conveying a businessman’s cold indifference.

This reaction was expected. Sensing his anger, Roxanne softened her tone. “Damaris Group's cooperation is vital. If you’re unsatisfied, I’ll offer a further five percent, bringing Damaris Group's share to twenty-five percent. That's my final offer.”

He scoffed. “Generous of you, Ms. Jarvis, to offer five percent so readily. Do you think I’ll accept?”

“If not,” she replied, “I’ll compensate Damaris Group three times the market price for the herbs provided, and I’ll secure an alternative distribution channel.” Her willingness to end the collaboration was clear.

Jack laughed. “No market price can match the value of Damaris herbs, available only for internal use. You're oversimplifying this, Ms. Jarvis.”

Roxanne frowned. “Then propose a fair price, and I’ll accept it without objection.” A wave of unease washed over her; Jack might now demand a far larger share of the profits.

“I think you misunderstand the situation, Mr. Damaris,” Lucian intervened, subtly leaning forward, his gaze cold and fixed on Jack.