"Nick, you graduated from the University of Washington three years ago with a degree in computer science and continued your education. If I'm not mistaken, you now have a doctorate, and you didn't get it for the sake of it."
"Yes, that's exactly it," Sabo agreed. "I was developing new cryptographic methods applicable to computer systems."
"I've heard about your accomplishments, Nick," Richard said respectfully. "A smart contract... I liked the concept."
"Mr. Rich, I'm surprised," Sabo looked stunned. "Forgive me, but you look very young. Do you really understand what my work is about?"
"Of course, Nick," Richard confirmed with a slight nod. "You're developing a tool to leverage advanced contract law techniques in internet e-commerce protocols. I know how this will end."
Mr. Sabo's gaze took on genuine curiosity. He asked with interest:
- Yes? I'm curious to know what you came up with...
"Cryptocurrency..." Richie said meaningfully and fell silent.
Mr. Sabo's eyes suddenly grew the size of large coins. His mouth dropped open in amazement and he looked at Richard with genuine admiration.
"Mr. Rich, you surprise me," said Sabo. "How did you guess? I never told anyone about cryptocurrencies!"
"Hmm," Richard drawled. "Nick, some people think I'm a genius, but I don't think so myself. It was obvious from your work."
"And..." Sabo began, but fell silent. After thinking about something, he continued: "And you want to offer me something?"
"Yes, Nick," Rich Jr. nodded. "On your own, on a weak computer, you'll be developing your own cryptocurrency for another ten years. It will undoubtedly bring you enormous profits, but..."
Understanding dawned on Mr. Sabo's face. He exclaimed:
- You want to invest in my project and get a share!
"You are very smart and insightful, Mr. Sabo," Richard replied. "I would expect nothing less from you."
"What's the point of me sharing this with anyone?" the American frowned.
Richard's glance at the Yankees was mocking. He asked ironically:
"Nick, you have a choice. You can live for ten years, maybe more, without starving or wallowing in luxury. Or... You can get support from me, not just in material terms, but also in technical terms. How about access to the world's first artificial intelligence?"
Sabo was stunned. He was so shocked that for a moment he couldn't utter a single word. When he came to his senses a little, he managed to squeeze out:
- AI?! You're kidding me!
Richard shook his head with barely perceptible movements.
"No, Nick," he said. "I have several AI prototypes ready. They just need to be programmed properly. You could be given access to one of them. With this help, you could develop a cryptocurrency in a year or two. You'll be provided with housing during this time. You'll receive a decent grant. And once the development is complete, you'll get a sizable share in the business. Either way, you won't end up losing out. Either way, you'll still become a millionaire. But if you accept my offer, you'll become richer ten to fifteen years sooner. Think about it-spend your entire youth with a huge fortune in your bank accounts, or spend much longer and achieve the same result."
Sabo fell into deep thought. For about five minutes, the conference room was completely silent. Richard didn't interrupt Nick's thoughts or rush him, fearing that any careless word or action could frighten off the one who could bring him a huge fortune. Suddenly, Nick emerged from his thoughts and asked:
- Do you actually have an AI?
"Yes, Nick," Richie nodded. "But that's top secret."
"Then I agree!" Nick Sabo responded enthusiastically. "Where else can I get access to the AI... Yes, I agree, Mr. Rich. Let's discuss dividing up shares in the digital gold."
"Bitgold?" Richard raised an eyebrow questioningly. "It's a good name, I like it. But I think Bitcoin would be more appropriate..."