Chapter 396: When the "Hans Pharmaceuticals" Thunderstorm Was Underway

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Penang beach was a picture of tranquility, with a large area cordoned off and black-clad guards stationed every few meters. On the beach, Han Yezhen, dressed in a floral dress, cradled her son in her arms while Hardy, in nothing but swim trunks, played in the sand with their child. 

The little Byrne was in high spirits, his small legs flailing in the sand. Every time the waves tickled his toes, he let out gleeful squeals. Exhausted from the day's fun, Byrne eventually dozed off in Hardy's arms.

Han Yezhen reclined on a beach blanket, savoring the peaceful scene of father and son. 

"Yezhen, I need to discuss something with you," Hardy said.

"What's up?" Han Yezhen asked, turning to face him.

"I plan to grant you residency status for Malacca and Penang, making it dual nationality," Hardy said.

"Why's that?" Han Yezhen inquired, puzzled.

"There's going to be a member election soon. I intend for you to enter parliament and eventually become the speaker," Hardy explained.

Han Yezhen nodded in agreement. "Alright, if you think it's best. But what exactly will being a speaker involve?"

Hardy gave a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. We have a team in place to help you with everything. You'll get the hang of it as you go."

Hardy was confident about Han Yezhen's future role. The Hardy Group had a well-trained administrative team, which had already established a government team for the dominion swiftly. His vision for governance was pragmatic; he wasn't about to invest heavily just to create a façade of democracy. He aimed to safeguard his interests while maintaining a semblance of democratic processes.

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The first assembly of the Dominions of Penang and Malacca had convened, comprising 59 councillors, including British and American dual nationals, as well as representatives from Chinese, Malay, and Indian communities. They were mostly local gentry and influential figures, as the concept of popular elections was still developing.

The assembly elected a speaker, a deputy speaker, and a secretary. Han Yezhen was chosen as the first chairman of the dominion. Though some might argue that this was nepotism, the process was entirely legal and part of the democratic framework Hardy was putting in place. 

The deputy speaker was William Wallace, an American dual national known for his democratic leanings, while the secretary to the speaker was a Chinese individual. Their roles were to assist Han Yezhen in managing the council and ensuring its smooth operation, especially when she was away.

Han Yezhen would continue to reside in Hong Kong, preferring its safety and the presence of her beloved career museum. Her role as speaker was more symbolic, as Hardy was the true power behind the scenes.

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In the Temporary Governor's Mansion, Chief Minister Peter Smith and Economy Minister James Ryan were briefing Hardy.

"Your Excellency, construction of the Governor's Palace has begun. We've received applications from five design firms from the US and UK," Peter Smith reported.

Hardy nodded. The location for the Governor's Palace was carefully selected by Feng Shui experts from the Hong Kong Hadi Group. The chosen site was an area with favorable Feng Shui, situated on elevated terrain with a sea view and a sprawling 1,100-acre garden.

"There are twelve confirmed corporate projects, including new terminals in Penang and Malacca. These will provide freight ports, fuel, supplies, and transshipment services," Peter Smith continued.

While Hardy had a more extensive terminal project planned for Singapore, the focus for Penang and Malacca was on business distinct from Hardy Group's interests.

"The temporary government office will continue to be used until a larger one is built. The court, prosecutor's office, and police station are already operational. Immigration has surged, with over two thousand new arrivals, predominantly Chinese and a few British farmers. The number of Malays remains low."

"There are now over 60 Malayan business owners and estate owners who have signed agreements with Hardy Investment, totaling over 34 million USD," Smith added. "Interestingly, all signatories are Chinese."

This was a testament to the growing trust within the Chinese community, as exemplified by Huang Henian's bold move to secure protection by selling 40% of his family's assets.

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Hardy's assistant interrupted, presenting a telegram from the US:

"Hans Pharmaceuticals Thunderstorm."

Hardy contemplated briefly before instructing his assistant, "Make arrangements for my return to the United States."

The next day, Hardy took Han Yezhen and their child to Hong Kong, where they spent the night at Taipingshan Manor. Hardy then flew to the United States alone.

Upon arrival in the US, Andy was there to greet him. In the car, he handed Hardy a copy of the Los Angeles Financial Times with a headline that read: "A Massive Scam: Hans Pharmaceuticals' Myth Exposed."

The article detailed the scandal surrounding Hans Pharmaceuticals, revealing that the company's purported breakthrough drug was ineffective and that experimental data from Africa had been falsified. This scandal was expected to have far-reaching implications.

Andy confirmed, "Yes, we're shorting Hans Pharmaceuticals."

Hardy smiled, knowing this was the culmination of a well-orchestrated plan. The operation had not only earned them substantial cash but also positioned them advantageously for future opportunities.