The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is the leading public university in the United States, serving as a prominent incubator for talent in business, finance, the high-tech industry, and film arts.
With its picturesque scenery and architectural designs inspired by the Lombard Renaissance, UCLA immerses visitors in the rich cultural heritage of that era.
However, Henry was not here for a leisurely visit; he had a particular purpose in mind.
Blizzard's famed "Three Musketeers" hailed from UCLA!
Yes, Henry was here to seek out the future founders of Blizzard Entertainment!
UCLA's vibrant atmosphere sets it apart from Stanford University. As the birthplace of many movies, UCLA boasts an impressive selection of stunning individuals, creating a stark contrast to the population found at Stanford.
Dressed casually in white, Henry strolled through UCLA, occasionally admiring the beautiful passersby.
As the midday sun blazed down, a couple wandered into a grove nearby.
Henry settled on a large rock across a lake, remaining discreetly uninvolved. His enhanced vision – courtesy of his life's crossing – allowed him to observe everything that happened in the small forest across the lake.
"Wow, you really deserve to be a University of California student, talent! That's a great trick! I—get it!!!"
"Wow, that blonde girl over there is something else!"
Henry found himself in awe, wondering if he should consider attending university; he was beginning to feel wistful about missing out on such "privileges."
Just as he imagined his own university experience, his bodyguard arrived, escorting the three founders of Blizzard to him!
Mike Morhaime, Alan Adhan, and Frank Pierce knew each other from their friendship through a computer program known as JOE. They were currently experimenting with the Nintendo game consoles as their time in college neared its end; plans were already in place to establish a gaming company post-graduation, focusing on developing games for the beloved Nintendo.
"Hi there! I realize this may seem surprising, but allow me to introduce myself. My name is Henry Williams, chairman of Prestige Capital!" Henry said cheerfully, standing up to greet them.
The trio were taken aback. The chairman of a venture capital firm wanted to meet with them? How unusual!
"Hello, I'm Mike Morhaime!"
"Alan Adhan!"
"Frank Pierce!"
The three warmly greeted Henry, introducing themselves in turn.
"UCLA is fantastic… It seems to cultivate outstanding talent!" Henry remarked, continuing, "We're planning to allocate $100 million for our prestige incubator program to foster the growth of potential new companies. Additionally, we aim to help university students take the initiative to start their businesses!"
"Oh, you mean..."
"Yes!" Henry laughed. "I've heard of your reputations and I believe you possess real talent. Therefore, I want to invest in you and assist you in building your company! What do you think? Would you be interested in this investment? We at Weifeng Capital have valuable connections and resources that can facilitate your company's growth—we have fruitful relationships with Cisco, Nicholas Group, Global Online, Isearch, Dell, and many other influential businesses!"
The three founders exchanged glances, excitement bubbling within them. They were mere college students with no established company, no funding, and no remarkable achievements to their names! To be courted by a venture capital firm willing to invest in them was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—a privilege many could only dream of!
Henry's keen interest in them touched their hearts, nearly bringing them to tears.
After a brief, silent exchange, they nodded in unison. "We'd love to accept your investment!"
"This is fantastic!!!" Henry exclaimed. "Let's celebrate! It's lunchtime; I'd like to treat you to a meal, after which we can discuss the investment details!"
"Thank you, Mr. Williams!"
"Please, just call me Henry. I'm younger than all of you!"
Surrounding UCLA, many fine restaurants awaited. Henry chose a stylish place that seemed quite upscale.
"How is this restaurant?" he inquired.
"Mixi Restaurant is highly regarded in this area, known for its superb cuisine. Many affluent college students flock here!" Frank Pierce explained.
"Great. Let's go with it!"
Henry led the way into the restaurant. The decor was trendy and refreshing, appealing to the tastes of college students. Meanwhile, "Eternal Flame," a chart-topping song in the U.S., played in the lobby, filling the air with an upbeat ambiance as guests swayed to the rhythm! Yet, Henry paid little attention, quickly waving a waiter over to recommend their best dishes.
After placing their orders, Henry decided to engage in light, casual conversation to ease any nervousness. He could tell that Mike, Alan, and Frank were somewhat anxious around someone as wealthy as him—meeting a billionaire investor was indeed a daunting prospect for these young students who had only just begun their adult lives.
Henry asked them about their experiences at university, and gradually, the tension lifted as they grew more comfortable and familiar with one another.
Before long, their lunch order arrived, and Henry delighted in the delicious flavors offered by the restaurant.
Just then, a woman's voice echoed across their table.
"Mike, are you eating here too?"
Henry's gaze turned to see a stunning woman approach their table, her fashion-forward outfit paired with towering high heels. Her striking red lipstick made her look undeniably alluring!
Mike's demeanor shifted, color draining from his face. With a forced smile, he greeted, "Oh, Raphael, hello!"
Henry's confusion piqued as Alan leaned in to whisper, "Raphael is Mike's ex-girlfriend; they broke up just yesterday!"
Henry nodded, grasping the situation.
"Haha, well, I have to run. Marvin is waiting for me over there!" Raphael replied with a grin, making her way to a nearby table where a young man sat watching Henry's group.
"Oh…" Mike responded, deflated.
As Raphael walked away, the sound of her clicking heels gradually faded, while Mike's expression soured further.
"Raphael, is Mike Morhaime sitting with that 'poor guy'? Does he still want to bother you?" a male voice rang out nearby, dripping with disdain.
"No! I made it clear yesterday," she replied, shaking her head.
"That's good!"
With that, the man named Marvin pulled Raphael in for a bold kiss, showcasing a rather unimpressive display of affection.
Henry noticed Mike's fingernails digging into his palm, drawing blood from the tension coursing through him.