Under normal circumstances, a highly classified "toy" like the full-motion flight simulator for a next-generation fighter jet—especially one still in development—would never be handed over to a private individual. Yet, the kid's final comment had struck a chord with Lockheed Martin's board of directors.
Currently, the F-35 was still undergoing test flights. Although the U.S. military had signed procurement contracts, the first units wouldn't be delivered for at least two more years. The project was further complicated by the involvement of various international stakeholders. On paper, Castle's request—made through the kid—should have been immediately rejected.
However, Castle had real credentials. His achievements in aircraft design and drone development provided tangible proof of his capabilities, giving Lockheed Martin's board a reason to seriously consider the request.
There was also another factor at play. Northrop Grumman was reportedly developing a new aircraft, allegedly inspired by Castle's drone designs. Northrop's success in winning a next-gen military drone contract had hinged on Castle's innovative concept: a hybrid drone with embedded rotors for vertical takeoff and turbofan engines for high-speed flight. This design allowed both hovering and sustained high-speed operation, significantly enhancing flight duration and versatility.
This raised the possibility that Castle might already possess additional aircraft design blueprints. The board concluded: If he's bold enough to ask, we might as well say yes.
"If Castle 'plays' with the simulator and suggests improvements, we could benefit greatly. And even if he doesn't, any upgrades would belong solely to Lockheed Martin without interference from foreign partners in the project," one board member reasoned.
Ultimately, the board authorized their executive to approve Castle's seemingly absurd request, albeit with precautions.
Although Castle had secured permission, obtaining the simulator was no simple task. This wasn't just some commercial flight sim you could install with software at home. The simulator was massive, occupying nearly half a basketball court. Only a few prototypes existed, still undergoing testing. Each unit required extensive setup and infrastructure.
Additionally, since the simulator was linked to a classified military project, Lockheed Martin needed to notify the Pentagon, although Castle's reputation as a tech expert made this a mere formality. His security clearance and connections within the military made him a valuable asset.
While Castle and the kid gleefully discussed their new toy, Gianna was fiercely holding her ground at the negotiating table. After learning the true value of the energy storage technology, she refused to settle for Castle's initial agreement—which involved merely covering the production and launch costs for three satellites.
After intense negotiations, Lockheed Martin reluctantly agreed to pay additional fees for the downgraded version of Castle's technology. Lawyers and accountants were brought in to finalize the deal, ensuring that Castle's tax obligations would be properly managed.
Castle's finances, both before and after his reincarnation, were handled by a renowned accounting firm. In a country where the IRS was a force to be reckoned with, Castle was careful not to provoke the tax authorities. Fortunately, most of his off-the-books income was stashed overseas, while his domestic royalties and other earnings were strategically minimized through legal tax avoidance measures.
Meanwhile, Castle was happily wandering around his estate with the kid and Big Ivan, searching for a suitable location to install the simulator. None of the current buildings on the property could accommodate its size, so Castle began planning a new structure specifically for the device.
Big Ivan, a former Spetsnaz operative, was in awe. He had seen powerful oligarchs in Russia, but Castle was on a different level entirely. Who else could casually acquire the world's only full-scale simulator for a fifth-generation fighter jet and treat it like a toy?
Even more impressive was the fact that Castle had managed to secure the simulator despite having a team of Russian bodyguards—an arrangement that hadn't raised any red flags during security checks. Lockheed Martin itself was responsible for navigating the necessary clearances, leaving Big Ivan both astonished and grateful to be working for such a remarkable employer.
Castle, oblivious to Ivan's thoughts, continued discussing where to build the new facility. The kid's excitement only grew as they debated logistics. Finally, Ivan interrupted their increasingly fantastical plans.
"Mr. Castle," Ivan began, "have you considered the security risks of this simulator? You do realize it's essentially a fully operational replica of an F-35 cockpit. If word gets out that you have it, certain groups might target you to obtain classified flight data."
Castle blinked in confusion. "Wait, what?"
Ivan, now fully in "security advisor" mode, elaborated. "If anyone discovers that your estate houses a full-motion F-35 simulator capable of simulating real flight conditions, spies or intelligence operatives could become very interested. If you place the facility near the beach, our defensive perimeter will be harder to secure. You'll make my job—and the entire security team's job—a nightmare."
The kid, catching on quickly, asked, "You're saying people might come after us for F-35 flight data?"
"Exactly," Ivan nodded. "This simulator isn't just a game. For foreign governments or industrial spies, gaining access to it could be a goldmine. We need to factor this into the estate's security plans before construction begins."
Castle scratched his head, finally grasping the gravity of the situation. "So... you're saying I can't just put it wherever I want?"
Ivan sighed. "Not unless you want a constant security headache. We'll need to build the facility in a secure location, away from easily accessible areas like the beach. We'll also have to enhance surveillance and implement tighter access controls."
The kid's excitement dimmed slightly at the thought of additional security measures, but Castle shrugged and grinned. "Well, I guess that's the price of being awesome."
Ivan couldn't help but chuckle. "Indeed, sir. But remember—being 'awesome' comes with responsibilities."
The conversation shifted back to logistics, but the trio now had a clearer understanding of the stakes involved. Their new "toy" might be fun, but it also posed serious risks that couldn't be ignored.
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