Chapter 272: Cut First and Play Later, Royal Franchise

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Hardy visited the construction site of the casino. The "Venetian" and "Caesar's Palace" sites had become massive construction zones, bustling with activity. Upon hearing of Hardy's visit, the person in charge of Meitong Real Estate Development Company promptly came out to greet him and provide an update on the progress.

The Hardy Group headquarters building was still in its foundation stage, expected to rise fully within a year. Hardy then inspected the construction of the racetracks and greyhound racing tracks. These projects were smaller and progressing more quickly, with an anticipated completion and operational date by the following summer.

Satisfied with the progress, Hardy envisioned hosting a grand horse race in Las Vegas, aiming to make it a key event that would draw more tourists. The events would also be broadcasted live on TV.

After the visit, Hardy returned to Los Angeles. Inside the manor, he was in the middle of a shower when Ava entered wearing a silk robe. As the robe slipped off, revealing her figure, she approached Hardy, gently soaping his body and slowly crouching down to continue.

Hardy enjoyed stroking Ava's hair, feeling content.

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Later, the two lay on the bed, watching TV and chatting. Ava mentioned that MGM Films had offered her a movie role based on a Hemingway novel, "The Snow of Kilimanjaro," and asked for Hardy's opinion.

Hardy considered it a literary film, not typically a big moneymaker, but acknowledged its appeal to directors. Ava expressed her fondness for the story, which led Hardy to support her decision. He assured her that her schedule with "Super Idol" would allow her ample time to work on the film and return as a mentor for the next season.

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After the general election, Hardy did not rush back to the delegation, which was in Belgium, followed by Norway and Switzerland. Hardy had limited interest in investing in these countries, focusing instead on shipping, banking, and luxury goods, particularly in Italy, France, and the United Kingdom. He left inspections in other countries to Andy and planned to join him in the UK later.

The next day, Hardy visited HD Security, which had grown to become the largest security company in the U.S. with over 5,000 employees. The company provided various services, including bank and airport security, and had an intelligence department, HD Intelligence Company, led by Henry.

The company had been profitable, with a surplus of over $5 million last year, though Hardy reinvested the money into the business rather than taking it for himself. His goal was to build a powerful force rather than merely profiting.

Hardy planned to upgrade HD Security by establishing an 'HD Mercenary Corps' to assist the government with sensitive issues that regular military operations could not address due to political constraints. The mercenaries would offer a quicker, less restricted response to situations such as politically sensitive kidnappings.

Moreover, Hardy aimed to set up a military base to train future special forces and provide training to the government. This base would also serve to strengthen HD Security's network, with potential overseas bases in Africa and Asia for various strategic purposes.

To enhance maritime security, Hardy sought to acquire warships and naval assets, including three 'Ladero-class' destroyers, six patrol boats, and additional aircraft for a flying club. His strategy involved both practical security measures and collection of military equipment.

Hardy met with President Johnson and Secretary of Defense James Forrestal to present his plans. The U.S. government agreed to HD Security's military involvement below the frigate level and allowed the establishment of the HD Mercenary Corps.

Returning home, Hardy finalized the acquisition of the ships and aircraft. He arranged for thorough inspections and maintenance, including spare parts and ammunition. Colonel Adam Beech from the military logistics department managed the transactions, ensuring all equipment was in top condition.

The total investment amounted to over $13 million, with funds initially owed and later deducted from profits. Hardy's venture into post-war material sales was highly profitable, yielding a 30% profit margin.