"The current drilling shows 3 meters of ore at a depth of 29 meters, with a copper equivalent grade of 12.1%. This data comes from a diamond drill hole, and we estimate the core thickness to be about 70% of the mineralization thickness," the head of Valen Mining Company explained to Tony Stark.
"What's the copper equivalent grade?" Tony, already prepared for the meeting, asked.
The person in charge clarified, "Equivalent grade measures the value of associated components in the ore, converting them into the primary element for evaluation. Generally, the higher the equivalent grade, the more valuable the deposit."
"It's 5.9%," the person added.
Tony nodded, clearly impressed. "That's solid. It looks like this deposit is a rich ore body. I suggest it be included in the pre-feasibility study you're completing this quarter."
The person in charge hesitated before responding. "There's an issue we didn't anticipate."
Tony raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to continue.
"The high-grade ore body extends about 220 meters southward, near the mountains in the state park."
"State park?" Tony repeated. "Oh, right, the one where Kraven the Hunter met his end. Sounds like the kind of place where monsters lurk, waiting to jump out and take a bite of you."
He shrugged. "But I'm guessing we won't have much interaction with it."
The person in charge shook his head. "Actually, we drilled an exploratory mine near the park and sent a team to investigate. Two days ago, we lost all contact with them."
Tony's casual demeanor vanished. He removed his sunglasses and looked at the man intently. "Are you telling me this is an Arthur Gordon Pym situation?"
(Arthur Gordon Pym refers to a suspense novel where explorers encounter strange, inexplicable events and vanish.)
The man hesitated. "As much as I wish I could say no... it's exactly that."
"We sent another team to check, but they also disappeared. Given the recent rumors about that area…"
Tony interrupted. "You think werewolves or dark creatures are behind this?"
"It's possible," the man admitted. "We're planning to send another team today."
Tony considered this for a moment. "You wouldn't mind if I stayed and joined your operation, would you?"
"Of course not. But your safety is our priority, so you'll need to follow our rules."
Tony smirked. "Naturally. You're in charge."
---
The helicopter roared to life, carrying Tony and the mining team toward the state park.
As they flew, Tony leaned toward the person in charge. "You know, I've seen some incredible places in my time. In Antarctica, I saw Mount Erebus and Terror Peak, and endless mountain ranges. My helicopter even crashed into one of those massive ice barriers."
He grinned. "I'm not some clueless playboy. I can handle this."
Half an hour later, the helicopter landed near the mine at the park's northern edge.
The camp surrounding the mine came into view first. Scattered supplies, scientific equipment, books, flashlights, fuel, and tents were still intact. Yet, there were unsettling details—jagged red stains on some papers and partially eaten food scattered around.
Tony surveyed the camp, his expression growing serious.
Turning toward the mine's dark entrance, he felt a strange foreboding. It seemed like something was lurking inside, waiting to devour anyone who dared enter.
"This isn't good," Tony muttered, sliding his sunglasses back on. "We're one step away from a bad ending."
Accompanied by bodyguards, he approached the mine. The darkness ahead felt like the maw of a creature hiding ancient secrets.
Danvers, the president of Valen Mining, called out to him. "Mr. Stark, for your safety, I strongly recommend staying away from the entrance."
Tony waved him off. "I'm fine. If something jumps out, you're here to protect me."
Danvers sighed but stationed more guards to watch over him.
Despite the warnings, Tony didn't stop at the entrance. He ventured deeper into the mine, his curiosity driving him forward.
"Mr. Stark!" Danvers called after him, trying to stop him.
"Relax," Tony replied, his tone losing its earlier carelessness. "You and I are supposed to be partners, but it seems you've been keeping secrets from me."
Danvers froze. "What do you mean?"
"I mean," Tony said, turning to face him, "I know you've found more than just copper here. You've discovered something unusual, haven't you?"
Danvers shook his head. "This is just a copper mine excavation site."
"Don't insult my intelligence. I'm a genius, not just a scientist. You've falsified the copper reserves to secure Stark Industries' acquisition and save yourselves from a financial crisis. Am I wrong?"
Danvers' expression shifted between shock and resignation.
He had underestimated Tony Stark, assuming he was nothing more than a spoiled, rich playboy.
"I can see you're considering your options. Either come clean or try something drastic, like tying me up. Spoiler: the second option won't end well for you. Why not hear my proposal?"
Danvers stayed silent, watching Tony with a mix of frustration and intrigue.
Tony snapped his fingers. "Here's the deal: I get access to explore this site, and I'll still push for the acquisition of Valen Mining by Stark Industries. Sound good?"
After a tense moment, Danvers nodded. "Deal."
"But…" He glanced toward the cave's depths. "The disappearance of the expedition team wasn't staged. That really happened."
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