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I became acutely aware that my client was interrogating me about our company’s technology in a military context. China and Russia had the most extensive natural silicon carbide mines; both were environmental disasters, with high rates of chronic illness among workers.
Also, neither country was very friendly with mine. Mr Chen became increasingly persistent, asking the same questions, using different approaches each time.
“Alice, is it fair to say the tropical zone is key to your company’s success?”
“Our enzyme needs a constant source of rice husk to convert that to silica. Rice can only be grown in areas where the balance between temperature and precipitation is unique.”
“Yes, then?”
“Yes, Mr. Chen.”
He smiled and waved both arms expansively as if delighted by the opportunity I had presented, but I saw a sly, selfish grin that worried me.
“Where can we sign up to buy your enzyme?”
“You can’t. We propose a joint venture with your company through a local production plant, ensuring all silica is prohibited for use in military armor.”
“Do you have the moral right to decide what products we manufacture?”
“It’s nothing to do with morals. Our company is based in the United States, so legally, we cannot support your armor production.”
“We would pay handsomely, over market prices, with a personal incentive for you, Alice.”
“I don’t break the law and never take kickbacks, Mr. Chen.”
“I see. Did you bring a sample, Alice?”
“I did not.”