Marvel: Alchemist

Chapter 23: Forging the Future

Summer 1985 – Golden Aerospace Facility, Nevada

The desert sun beat down on the massive Golden Aerospace complex, a testament to Edward Lin's growing vision. Once a barren stretch of land, the facility now housed cutting-edge research into propulsion, materials science, and orbital infrastructure. Here, the foundation for humanity's next great leap was being laid, and Edward stood at the center of it all.

The reinforced alloy composed of Kryptonium and other advanced metals was the crown jewel of their research. Stronger than any known material, yet lightweight and resistant to extreme conditions, it was the key to interstellar travel. William Lin, now fully immersed in his role within the company, oversaw the final stress tests in the laboratory.

"This alloy could withstand atmospheric re-entry without a scratch," William observed, watching as a high-powered laser barely made a dent in the test sample.

Edward nodded. "It's more than just durability. With the right modifications, we could use it as shielding against cosmic radiation."

Dr. Elaine Carter, the head scientist of Golden Aerospace, approached with a tablet in hand. "Our preliminary tests confirm your theory. Kryptonium-infused plating could revolutionize spacecraft. We could go beyond Earth's orbit, maybe even establish long-term stations on the Moon or Mars."

Edward's gaze remained fixed on the alloy, already considering the next step. "Then let's push forward. Begin prototype construction immediately."

Expanding Influence

While technological advancements propelled Golden Enterprise into a new era, Edward was not blind to the geopolitical landscape. The U.S. government, seeing the potential in his aerospace endeavors, had cautiously extended an offer of collaboration. NASA's funding had waned, and private enterprises like Edward's were their best bet for maintaining dominance in space.

In Washington, Edward sat across from Senator Richard Blake, a key figure in aerospace policy.

"You're making waves, Lin," Blake said, swirling a glass of whiskey. "There's talk in the Pentagon that you're building something bigger than just satellites."

Edward smirked. "Talk is cheap. I deal in results."

Blake leaned forward. "NASA wants in. The military wants in. You can't keep playing in the private sector forever."

Edward's expression remained unreadable. "I disagree. Independence ensures innovation. But cooperation… that's negotiable."

Blake exhaled. "You're a hard man to pin down."

"That's why I'm still standing."

The meeting ended with a tentative agreement—Golden Aerospace would receive special clearance for low-orbit tests, and in return, the government would have priority access to non-classified breakthroughs. It was a fine balance between collaboration and maintaining control.

The Shadows Lurk

Despite stabilizing his position on Earth, Edward was always aware of threats that moved in silence. The Hellfire Club, though quiet, was never truly gone. And S.H.I.E.L.D., while less aggressive, still had an interest in his operations.

Nick Fury, now more embedded in S.H.I.E.L.D.'s upper ranks, made an unannounced visit to one of Edward's private offices in New York.

"You're shifting focus," Fury noted, glancing at the blueprints for orbital stations and asteroid mining operations.

"I prefer to think long-term," Edward replied smoothly.

Fury chuckled. "And yet, people in power still lose sleep over what you're building."

Edward met his gaze. "They should be more worried about what I'm preventing."

Fury tilted his head. "You really think space is the next battlefield?"

Edward didn't hesitate. "It's inevitable."

Fury studied him for a moment before standing. "Then let's hope you're right about staying ahead of the curve."

As Fury left, Edward turned back to the holographic projection of the first Kryptonium-reinforced spacecraft. Humanity's future was no longer bound to Earth. And neither was his.

A New Dawn

As the summer of 1985 continued, the first Golden Aerospace prototype—codename Horizon—was readied for testing. Unlike any other spacecraft before it, it would not merely orbit Earth but push toward deep-space capabilities.

Evelyn Lin, ever the skeptic, watched as final preparations were made. "Are you really ready for this?"

Edward exhaled, a rare moment of reflection crossing his features. "The world is changing, Evelyn. We either change with it or get left behind."

William placed a hand on the hull of Horizon, feeling the energy that pulsed beneath its reinforced frame. "Then let's make history."

The countdown had begun, and the stars awaited.

To Be Continued…