Explanation

The claims of KiShin Power magazine, stating that Will Gates became a bit addicted to the video game "Civilization I," even attracted the attention of media outlets.

Leading to several media outlets reporting KiShin Power's claims and even wanting to interview Will Gates themselves. However, the Microsoft CEO has no interest in answering the media outlets' inquiries.

---

In the Microsoft headquarters, in the CEO's office.

Will Gates has just been quite annoyed with KiShin for reporting his fascination with playing the video game "Civilization I."

And now, almost everyone in the company thinks he is becoming a video game addict, being complacent, and not handling the company as much anymore.

Some investors with representative directors and voting power on the board are even calling to confirm the news, and a board meeting took place, although it's not a meeting time yet.

After some explaining and with Paul Allen, Will Gates' friend's support, they were able to clarify that KiShin's claims were just to attract people to their video games.

And that it's just a marketing strategy to boost video game sales. Although some directors were doubtful, after examining the estimated sales report of their latest video games, they saw a significant surge following KiShin's claim that Will Gates was becoming addicted to the video game "Civilization I." With this proof, the board members praised CEO Will Gates for thinking ahead and even sacrificing his image to increase video game sales.

Despite Will Gates being unaware of such a marketing strategy, except for KiShin, he could only nod as he received praise from some board members. Deep inside, however, Will Gates planned to call Shinro to provide an explanation.

After the board meeting shifted from Will Gates' explanation to a discussion of the business portfolio plan, Will Gates went to his office and called Shinro Suzuki.

---

It was night in Japan, and in Shinro Suzuki's residence in Minato Ward.

Shin had just fallen asleep with Mira in his arms. Unaware, Shin and Mira didn't notice Shin's phone ringing, likely due to exhaustion.

As time passed and morning arrived, Shin went to grab his phone first thing in the morning. Upon turning on the KRS phone, he noticed on the small screen that someone had just missed a call.

This is why Shin grabs his phone first thing in the morning — to check for messages or calls.

Shin glanced at the name of the person who had missed his call and realized it was Will Gates.

He tapped the soft keypad of his phone and saw that Will Gates had messaged him.

Microsoft Gates: 'We need to talk.'

Microsoft Gates: 'I need an explanation...'

Upon seeing this, Shin's brows furrowed in confusion before realization set in.

"Oh! Is it because of that?" Shin remembered instructing the marketing manager at KiShin to spread news about Will Gates being fascinated with the video game "Civilization I," hoping to attract people and boost sales.

Given that "Will Gates" held considerable influence in the USA, having cemented himself as the world's richest man with a net worth of almost 13 billion, it was evident how effective KiShin's marketing strategy would be by using Will Gates' name.

The thought of reminding Will Gates about it crossed Shin's mind.

Well, Shin just shrugged, sat up in bed, and then stood, walking to the restroom to wash his face and brush his teeth before having a shower.

Although outwardly Japanese, he didn't fully embrace Japanese habits, so he didn't have the inclination to bathe every few hours like some locals. After his shower, he dressed and proceeded to the study.

He then dialed Will Gates with his phone, and after a considerable wait, the call was finally answered.

---

Will Gates was leisurely relaxing in his mansion in Beverly Hills when his phone rang.

He turned on his phone to check the caller's identity and noticed it was someone named "Suzuki." Without hesitation, Will answered the call.

Soon, Shin's voice resonated through the phone, "Hey, Gates. What's up? I didn't notice your call last night— well, it was night here in Japan when you called..."

"Suzuki... I believe you already know why I called, right?"

"Apologies, Mr. Gates. However, I'm not entirely certain if your intention to call aligns with what I have in mind. Is it about the news regarding your newfound passion for a video game?"

"That's correct. Why did you feature me in your latest magazine issue without permission? Not to mention, it was a report that could slightly impact my reputation..."

"Well, it's just a piece highlighting your enjoyment of playing the video game 'Civilization I.' I don't think it could harm you in any way."

"Well, it does cause me quite a bit of trouble..."

"Well, I apologize, Mr. Gates. I had initially intended to ask for your permission, but I momentarily forgot."

"..." Will Gates fell momentarily silent.

Then, Shin's voice resounded once more.

"Moreover, in the KiShin Power magazine, it didn't present that news as true, and wasn't the marketing quite effective?"

Will Gates couldn't refute that and simply said, "Well, I guess you're right... But next time, remember to ask for my permission..."

---

After the phone call ended, Shin faintly smiled.

Will Gates couldn't complain too much, given that over time, KiShin had formed an alliance with Microsoft, gradually acquiring shares of the company.

KiShin had managed to gather at least 4 percent of Microsoft shares, and they were gradually aiming for more.

That 4 percent amounted to about 1.3 billion.

Although Will Gates might desire to reciprocate with a similar investment in KiShin, unfortunately, KiShin is not a public company like Microsoft.

So, for now, Will Gates could only let Shin and KiShin's actions slide... Well, he really couldn't do much about it...

Given that the KiShin representative director on the board was also aiding Will Gates in the company, coupled with the undeniable utility of the Unreal Engine to Microsoft, he genuinely couldn't afford to offend KiShin or Shinro.