Chapter 97: The Direction of Umbrella Corporation

"A lifespan of over a thousand years... wow, that's almost equivalent to immortality, isn't it?" Murphy mused, impressed by the vampire's theoretical longevity. "Nicolas Flamel only lived for over six hundred years."

"Why haven't we heard of vampires living that long?" Murphy wondered aloud.

"Cough, that's just the theoretical cell life limit under laboratory conditions. Actual human conditions are far more complex. More cell divisions don't mean the cells don't undergo functional changes, not to mention neurons and other cells that are hard to regenerate," Andrew explained.

"Also, the living conditions of vampires are far harsher than for humans. Their extreme photophobia means they can only be active at night and can't get sunlight, leading to a vitamin D deficiency. This not only leads to osteoporosis and an increased risk of hypertension and heart disease but might also affect their mental health."

"However, vampires, similar to bats, have a high resistance to bacteria and viruses, making them less susceptible to diseases. Moreover, they can instantly increase their heart rate several times, significantly enhancing their physical abilities. Their superhuman speed, reflexes, and strength are a result of this."

"We currently have two team members exploring the deep reasons behind vampires' DNA repair capabilities, which undoubtedly could have significant implications for extending human life."

"Additionally, we've studied vampire's true blood."

"We found that the cell concentration in true blood is very high, containing a lot of substances that can infect other cells. It can transform a normal cell into one containing vampire chromosomes in a very short time."

"However, the exact process and mechanism of this transformation are still unclear. We've observed some abnormal phenomena, possibly involving magical influence. But without a way to measure and observe magic, we can't be certain. Though I heard the Curse Research Group is working on a magic detector, maybe that will help in the future."

"Indeed, they've already completed it. You should communicate more with the Curse Research Group about this. By the way, how's the research on Animagi going?" Murphy inquired.

Although the DNA repair capabilities of vampires might extend human life, an unexpected boon, Murphy hadn't forgotten that the initial purpose of studying vampires was for the transformation pathway, whose core is the Animagus.

"About that, I wanted to discuss it with you," Andrew said. "We referred to the method of preparing Animagus potion from the books and found that Muggles simply can't make it. And Professor Alexis said that no one has ever sold this potion. But without the potion, we can't start the research..."

The process of making Animagus potion is one of the most complex of all potions Murphy knows.

The first step alone requires a wizard to keep a mandrake leaf in their mouth for an entire month, not to mention collecting dew that hasn't seen sunlight or human presence for seven days, and reciting spells to themselves every morning and evening before the next thunderstorm.

These steps are so complex that even though Murphy has long aspired to become an Animagus, his several attempts during his school days all ended in failure.

The scarcity of Animagi in the wizarding world is not without reason.

The fact that Sirius and others could become Animagi is enough to show how strong their friendship with Lupin was.

However, this problem must be solved. Without the potion for reference, expecting Andrew and his team to uncover the core principle of Animagus transformation from scratch is practically a pipe dream.

"I'll find a way," Murphy assured.

He had already decided to recruit a bunch of wizards to keep leaves in their mouths daily, paying more if necessary, to ensure some would be willing to do it.

"Boss." After chatting with Andrew for a while longer, Boris, who had finished his physical exam, approached.

Murphy couldn't help but notice that Boris seemed slightly paler and thinner.

"How are you doing? Andrew hasn't been mistreating you, has he?" Murphy teased.

"No, Dr. Andrew and the others have been very caring," Boris replied earnestly.

Well, Boris was a bit too serious for Murphy's taste.

Leaving the magical laboratory with Boris, Murphy inquired about Marianna's condition and learned that she was almost fully recovered and currently learning to paint.

"You've gotten a good grasp of the company's situation, right?" Murphy asked Boris.

"Generally, yes. Umbrella Corporation is an impressive company," Boris acknowledged. "Its profitability is astonishing, and its growth potential is boundless."

Murphy nodded, as this was evident to anyone. "What do you think should be the future direction of Umbrella?"

This was also a kind of test for Boris.

After some thought, Boris answered, "Umbrella Corporation is currently in a phase of rapid expansion. Generally, at this stage, a company can choose between two directions: vertical integration to delve deeper into the industry, or horizontal expansion to diversify into more industries."

"In fact, every ambitious enterprise will dabble in both directions, with different emphases."

"As a certified accountant, Boris was not unfamiliar with corporate strategy."

"So, which aspect do you think Umbrella should focus on?"

"I believe Umbrella Corporation is more suited for the vertical integration route."

"Umbrella currently has a pharmaceutical brand, Isis Pharmaceuticals, mainly selling white medicine related products. There's also a high-end cosmetics brand, Camelot, with its Venus series. Additionally, there's a research center that has already produced patents, which can bring considerable revenue through licensing."

"To outsiders, the research center seems to be a front-end department providing product development for Isis and Camelot. However, after studying the data, I realized that the research center is your ultimate goal. Isis and Camelot are just peripheral enterprises to support the research center."

"The research center is the core of Umbrella, or rather, the knowledge it produces is what you need."

"With this goal in mind, I think Umbrella Corporation is more suited to become a high-tech innovative enterprise."

"Firstly, innovation and research should be the core driving force and competitive advantage. By constantly developing new products and using innovative methods, it can achieve differential advantages and maintain profit levels far above the industry average."

"Secondly, actively explore new markets, seek the transformation and monetization of intermediate research products, and ensure a virtuous research cycle."

"Lastly, build patent barriers, set industry standards, and become an industry oligarch."

"After deep cultivation in one industry, then gradually expand horizontally into related fields."

"The vertical integration route may be slower in expansion, but each step is incredibly solid, always maintaining sufficient bargaining power, allowing easy decision-making. It's the most suitable path for Umbrella Corporation and aligns best with your requirements."

After hearing Boris's analysis, Murphy stood up.

"Good, I'm reassured. Come with me to meet Patrick."

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