11 Chapter -11: Convincing Tony

"Tony, Adrian, please hurry up, the plane is already waiting."

After seeing Adrian and Tony getting up, they both washing up slowly, Pepper couldn't help but urge them on.

According to the plan, she should have woken up Tony and Adrian more than an hour ago, but they both slept soundly, and she knew if they didn't get enough rest, waking them up would be difficult.

But now time is already tight, and these two aren't moving any faster, risking missing the agreed-upon time.

"Relax, no need to hurry. What's the rush? Our Stark Industries weapons aren't for active sale, and this time the Afghan military is buying weapons from us, not the other way around, so there's no need to show any urgency, or they might think we're desperate to finalize the deal." Adrian said to Pepper while washing up.

"Hmm, Adrian, although you've never participated in our Stark Industrial activities, I have to say you're spot on. There's no need to rush things because it is they who are asking weapons from us." Tony joined the conversation as he finished dressing, smiling as he spoke.

"…." Pepper is speechless by these two's shamelessness.

"So Tony, now that we are going to Afghanistan, did you arrange for any bodyguard or private security to accompany us?" Adrian suddenly inquired of Tony Stark.

"What bodyguard or Private security? Don't you find them annoying? Besides, this time we have Colonel Rhodey accompanying us, and once we arrive, we'll be meeting with the top military officials in Afghanistan. There's no danger whatsoever. In such circumstances, it's hard for you to imagine any threat to our lives," Tony reassured Adrian with a glance.

"You do have a point, but Afghanistan isn't always a safe place. Armed groups could be lurking anywhere. Who knows if we might be targeted by them? We're one of the biggest arms manufacturers after all, and if they attack us, there's a lot at stake," Adrian remarked.

"You're right to be cautious, but don't worry. Everything will be fine. It's just a routine weapon briefing in our line of work. The Afghan military won't let anything go wrong," Tony Stark reassured.

"Sure, we're unlikely to face any issues with the Afghan military, but I'm concerned about potential incidents when we're leaving after the weapons trade," Adrian pointed out.

"Adrian, you seem quite concerned about the risks. Are you afraid of death?" Tony Stark inquired.

"Yes, I am afraid, especially after last night's attack. I'm feeling quite sensitive now. That's why I strongly suggest bringing along professional bodyguards to Afghanistan, with a well-equipped team. Additionally, considering Stark Industries doesn't have many portable attack weapons, I'd feel more secure if I had some on hand. And beyond that, I insist that our bodyguards are fully armed." Adrian strongly urged.

"Oh right, I forgot you were attacked last night. I understand, but this level of security seems a bit excessive." Tony looked at Adrian with wide eyes.

"What's exaggerated about it? Other arms dealers and wealthy individuals often have similar arrangements. Besides, when dealing with an instable country like Afghanistan, it's not uncommon for them to travel with significant security personnel. I also have 20% stake in Stark Industries, requesting bodyguards and securities doesn't seem excessive given my position." Adrian asserted.

"This... well, if you insist, then so be it. But Adrian, don't you think this is a bit excessive? I've attended numerous conferences, and I've never seen such elaborate security measures. It seems a bit excessive for our image, don't you think?" Tony expressed his concern about the proposed security arrangements, suggesting they might be too extravagant and not aligned with their usual public image.

"Come on, Tony, sometimes I wonder how you've managed to stay alive this long. Luckily, I've always kept a low profile. I don't venture out much, so people don't pay much attention to me. If I were as high-profile as you, roaming around without bodyguards, I'd probably have been taken out ages ago," Adrian remarked, half-jokingly, to Tony.

"Tony, I think Adrian is right. You really should consider getting some bodyguards. While Colonel Roddy is reliable, when you're in other countries, the situation is different. It's not like here at home where you're well-protected by the FBI. Other countries might pose more risks," Pepper chimed in, agreeing with Adrian.

"Alright, alright, let's just go with Adrian suggestion," Tony conceded, shaking his head. He instructed Pepper to make the arrangements and asked for some burgers to eat on the plane.

After some time, Adrian, Tony, and Pepper arrived at a private airport, where a private plane had been parked for some time. At the same time Colonel Rhodey, wearing a military uniform was already seated in the cabin, awaiting Tony and the others.

Unlike the story where Tony Stark was only accompanied by Colonel Rhodey, now not only Adrian but also 16 black-suited men are accompanying them.

These 16 black-suited men may look ordinary, but in reality, they have undergone rigorous training.

Stark Industries, inside Obadiah Stane's office.

"Very well. I was only prepared to take Tony. I didn't expect Adrian to come along. Although he doesn't appear in the group or participate actively, he's still Howard's son, with 20% of the group's shares. Since he's here, even if he's just a dead weight, it's just an added burden. You don't have to come back." Obadiah Stan smiled coldly, then sent out an action command via email.

Actually, Obadiah Stane also had the opportunity to go with Tony Stark, but he refused, stating that he had to handle company matters in Tony Stark's absence.