Pablo was completely caught off guard.He said, "In truth, we joined the Luminous out of sheer necessity. I don't know what you have gone through, but back then, besides the Luminous, there was also an organization called the Crimson Order that wanted us to join."Later, the two factions clashed. The Luminous wiped out the Crimson Order's people, demonstrating superior strength and promising that the aristocratic families would rise again to seize power one day."Pierce nodded. What Pablo said was consistent with what Bryce had told him. The aristocratic families had joined the Luminous because they couldn't resist the temptation.At one point, families like the Hernandezes, Vanderbilts, and Pentras were the darlings of the era, holding immense power. However, as time passed, they faltered.The tides of time eventually submerged the aristocratic families. But they were not resigned to this fate. They longed to make a comeback and regain power. However, their strength alone was ins
Bryce smiled. "Pierce, Eric saved my life. If you ever need help dealing with the Luminous, count me in. I can be of assistance!"He was eager to gain his freedom. When Pierce suggested they deceive Pablo, he agreed without hesitation. Thus, the two family heads exchanged tearful, empathetic glances."We'll discuss it later," Pierce said. "For now, Pablo is the only one talking. The Vanderbilts and Pedro likely know more. Let's rest and then find a good time to meet with Steven."-In Salt City, Eric received the information Pierce had sent. Everything Pablo said had been compiled into a report.The issues were prominent and sharp, but Eric had no immediate solutions.Previously, he suspected a connection between the Crimson Order and the Luminous, but Pablo's words suggested otherwise. If they were connected, why would they fiercely compete for dominance?It appeared that the Luminous and the Crimson Order were separate entities. This complicated matters, as handling the Crimso
Neither Sylvia, Eric, nor Andy liked making empty promises to their employees. Once they made a commitment and had the resources, they ensured its execution.Currently, the Innova Group wasn't short on funds. Though some opposed, arguing that the Innova Group's success stemmed from continuous, substantial investments in R&D to maintain product competitiveness, these funds would indeed yield greater returns if invested in R&D.Additionally, the Innova Group wasn't a publicly traded company. When the money ran out, it truly ran out, and there was no option for financing. The more funds available, the better.However, there weren't many dissenting voices. After all, even the Innova executives needed money. Who would ever complain about having too much money?The decision was thus made. As for distribution, it would follow each party's and employee's shareholdings. Even employees like Jacob, who hadn't been with the Innova Group for long, received some dividends.Companies like Will
It could be said that without the overwhelming support of the masses, the Innova Group's overseas market wouldn't have been so successful, nor would its current terrifying revenue have been achieved."Eric, this is our first dividend distribution. Isn't the amount a bit too much?" Michael asked.He had received a substantial sum. When he first joined the Innova Group, his demands were actually quite simple: a 1,000,000-dollar annual salary, plus a house and car, which was already a bargain.He hadn't asked for dividend shares, but the Innova Group still awarded him a significant amount of shares according to the regulations and based on his contributions to the company. Yet, he felt the distributed money was too much. Not to mention domestically, even compared to the three major international manufacturers, this dividend amount was quite explosive."Too much?" Eric smiled. "I think it's alright. There should still be room for growth. Everyone has worked hard these past few years,
The importance of Michael to the Innova Group couldn't be overstated. His compensation and benefits within the company were well deserved. For a company to grow and expand globally, this was a crucial step, and Michael was key to this transition for the Innova Group.His performance was beyond commendable—it was exemplary.He had elevated the Innova Group to a level where it stood almost shoulder-to-shoulder with the three major international manufacturers.Given such contributions, no one could possibly criticize him. No one else could have achieved what he had. Although he might have leveraged the Crimson Order, that was precisely his strength and value to the company.-As New Year's approached, the distribution of dividends concluded swiftly.With the school break, Lora found herself with more free time. Despite the cold weather, she frequently visited the Innova Group.Outsiders might mistakenly think she was Eric's mistress. After all, Eric epitomized the successful and we
Henry and Irvin were like brothers, and Sylvia, Eric, and Irvin shared sworn brotherhood—it was a bit confusing!"Dad, what did you guys talk about?" Eric asked.Henry lit a cigarette and said, "This year the Innova Group had its first dividend distribution. At that time, our families only invested a decent amount each, and now we’re making a fortune."At that point, he felt a bit embarrassed.In five years, turning a small fortune into a big fortune seemed like an incredibly good deal no matter how you looked at it.What kind of investment could yield such a return?Moreover, there would surely be more dividends from the Innova Group in the future.Both corporations held significant dividend shares in the Innova Group!He continued. "Today, Irvin also mentioned that the money is more than enough. The annual dividend is more than the profits Sonnex Corp. makes in several years, or even a decade."It’s the same for Williams Corp. His meaning is that the money we got should be c
After working hard and being busy all year round, everyone looked forward to those few days of celebration. They were not allowed to set off fireworks? Even Eric found it hard to believe."Who would have thought?" Brook said, "Places selling fireworks are being patrolled, and people are too scared to display them. Even the pyrotechnician who used to come to our house a few years ago is no longer in Salt City."The directive is out—no fireworks are allowed anywhere in the province. If caught, there's a fine. They say it's to prevent air pollution. I really don't know what those officials and experts are thinking!"Sylvia, annoyed, said, "Brook! Have you forgotten? Eric is still… holding an official position, isn't he? By criticizing the officials, aren’t you also criticizing him?"Brook quickly waved his hand. "It's different! Even though my brother-in-law is an official, he doesn't get involved in those matters!"Eric nodded and smiled, saying, "Brother-in-law, you can't say tha
The journey was silent.After more than an hour, they arrived at Nutikiville.Elijah and Howard exchanged glances.They knew this was Eric's hometown. Could it be that Nutikiville had a project requiring funding from Salt City? That didn't make sense!The development of Nutikiville was largely funded by Eric. He had never asked for much money from the finance department. The notion of funding didn't add up.Upon reaching a reservoir, Eric finally parked the car."Mr. Dawson, Mr. Kent, what do you think of the scenery here?" Eric asked, gazing at the vast reservoir."It's wonderful!" Elijah commented, "The landscape is beautiful and picturesque. Years of environmental construction have truly paid off! Green mountains and clear waters are invaluable assets!""Mr. Johnson, if I recall correctly, you funded the construction of this reservoir in Nutikiville, right? I heard it cost about 3,000,000 dollars. With this reservoir, the water supply and irrigation issues for the surround
In terms of innate talent, Eric was unparalleled, having reached the pinnacle of martial arts. With a single punch, he sent the 'God' flying."Good!" Stealthbane shouted with excitement.The ultimate enemy had finally been defeated, bringing peace to the world. Eric sighed in relief.However, in the next moment, the 'God' stood up again. Spitting out a mouthful of blood, he revealed a bloodthirsty smile. "You have successfully enraged me!"Everyone braced for a potential massacre, but instead, the enemy turned and fled.Could Eric let him escape?"Chase him!" Stealthbane commanded.Allowing this foe to escape would spell endless trouble.A group of people pursued the enemy, who soon reappeared clad in iron armor."Not seen this before, have you?" The 'God' seemed to have recovered somewhat. "Did you think I only research viruses? Wrong! I control global resources and global wealth!"This is our newly developed Doomforge Exosuit which amplifies a person's battle prowess tenfol
The sturdy floor lay in utter disarray.In desperation, Ruth shouted, "Eric, don't give him any more chances! Finish him off swiftly, or we'll face endless trouble!"Eric was well aware of this logic. As he fought, he said, "He's incredibly strong. Taking him down quickly isn't possible! We must fight to the death!"Eric had never feared battle. Besides, this might very well be his final fight.Their fists clashed fiercely.The 'God' also noticed that Eric was growing more formidable as the battle progressed."How do you have so much strength? Wouldn't it be better if we joined forces to control the world? We could have anything we desire!"All the world's wealth, women, and resources would be ours to enjoy. Why won't you listen to reason?" he roared.Eric's momentum didn't falter. "I don't share your grand ambitions. I just want a simple life with a job that pays 1,000 dollars a month and a warm home with my wife and kids. But you, you've disturbed my peace!"The 'God' was fu
The 'God' grew more courageous as the battle raged on, causing Stealthbane to worry incessantly.In another high-stakes clash, Eric and his opponent both retreated. Eric sensed his opponent's growing strength, finding it rather peculiar.The 'God' clenched his fist. "I must thank you! My techniques were slightly incomplete, but I've managed to fill the gaps through this battle!"Eric marveled at his opponent's genius. To mend something incomplete was indeed a rare talent.Despite Eric training with the complete manual, he could only match the 'God' blow for blow. This person was terrifying!The opponent's confidence soared. Although Eric had trained with the full manual, the 'God' felt his innate talent far surpassed Eric's. If he could match Eric with an incomplete manual, now that he had perfected it, wouldn't he be unbeatable?"I thought you had potential and considered inviting you to share this world with me," the 'God' said, his tone turning icy. "But now, I see it's unnece
Stealthbane even felt that Eric might not be a match for the "God."The power was overwhelming.The terrifying aura was enough to crush everything. To an ordinary person, this was a real deity—the strength possessed had already transcended human limits.Eric made his move with a burst of speed. The clash of their fists created a thunderous explosion, and the sound was so intense that Stealthbane felt his eardrums might shatter.This was a battle of the highest caliber, one that even a legend like Stealthbane could not hope to join.Seeing the two evenly matched, Stealthbane sighed in relief. At least there was a chance that the strongest combatants were neutralizing each other. The outcome was still uncertain.Eric shook his aching fist, his expression grave. The opponent's strength was as he had anticipated. If the ultimate boss of the Luminous did not possess such combat power, it would be absurd.Clearly, this "God" had also gauged Eric's strength.He extended a hand toward
Stealthbane knew that the figure facing them must be the ultimate leader of the Luminous.Suddenly, he no longer wanted to die. If he could hold on just a little longer, it would all be over."Mr. Johnson, these people don't seem ordinary. Could that leader be the ultimate figure of the Luminous? Are we about to complete the game?" he whispered.To him, this mission to the Ark felt like a game: defeat the final boss, and victory is achieved."If I'm not mistaken, it should be. This person gives me... a sense of danger," Eric said.Upon hearing this, Stealthbane felt reassured.Just a sense? That meant the problem wasn't too grave!The leader on the opposite side turned to Eric. "I didn't expect you to make it this far. I underestimated your strength, believing my Ark was impregnable, that no enemy could breach it. But why are you so persistent? Why such determination?"He suddenly screamed in a fit of hysteria, "I have so many people! Such a grand scheme! It has all succeeded!
Brent shouted desperately, "After you get on your knees, they'll kill you all, and we won't survive either! Kill them! Kill them all!"He understood the situation with stark clarity. Kneeling meant certain death. If they had to die anyway, fighting back would be their only chance of survival.Eric sighed. "Mr. Rogers, in the end, it was we who implicated you. But this place must be eradicated, and the Luminous must be destroyed as well! Everyone, attack!"As the battle commenced, the masked man immediately struck Brent with a punch.Eric charged in. "Die!"He knew that Brent was unlikely to survive. This punch was his way of avenging Brent.The masked man spun around, trying to block Eric's punch. But the speed of the blow was too much—the gust of wind from the punch arrived before the fist did.It was an instant kill.The masked man had no time to react before Eric's punch collided with his chest. The terrifying force shattered the mask on the man's face, revealing an unfamili
Stealthbane was blinded by rage. He was killing anyone in sight, his fury unrelenting. They had ventured deep into enemy territory, where every encounter seemed to be with an adversary.Eric and his team from the Combat Department showed no mercy.Yet even Stealthbane's resolve was wearing thin."I can't kill them all! It feels like every master in the world is concentrated here!" he shouted in frustration.He felt the number of people he had brought was insufficient. If he had brought a few thousand more, he might have been able to overrun the place.Stealthbane was overwhelmed by the sheer horror of their situation. Fortunately, they had arrived. If anyone else had come, they would have met their end here.The numbers of the masters seemed endless."Damn it!" Stealthbane cursed angrily. "There are too many of them, and they're all exceptionally powerful. What kind of game is this?"He was tempted to retreat, but where could he go?Eric sent an enemy flying, pushing forward
"I was opposed to coming in from the start, but as you all know, the Rogers family is extremely complex. If we hadn't entered, I might have ended up dead. At least if the virus isn't a threat, that's something!" Brent poured himself a cup of coffee and continued. "These people are ruthless! They want to kill everyone outside the Ark and establish a new order, managed by a select few. It's insane!"You don't need to tell me—I know you're here to kill them."He then pulled a small token from his pocket. "This is our Rogers family's privilege here. It allows us to move freely between different levels. With this, you can go anywhere!"Stealthbane grabbed it eagerly. "Why didn't you mention this earlier? Things will go much smoother with this!"Brent sighed. "Once you've handled everything, could you take me out with you? I really don't want to stay in this dreadful place any longer.""Sure!" Eric nodded. "We'll definitely call you when we leave. For now, we're heading out."Brent e
Everything was ready, but they couldn't just walk in.Ruth instructed the Combat Department to conduct a three-day intensive training for everyone, focusing on coordinated combat.-After three days, the forces led by Stealthbane moved out, first dismantling the outer defenses of the Ark. This was their specialty!A large group of several hundred arrived in front of the Ark's entrance. At first glance, it resembled a mountain.Jack scratched his head and said, "Is this the gate? I don't see any door."The Holy Templar's people arrived as well. St. Pius said, "Everyone, don't rush. Wait for two minutes. Once the gate opens, we need to get in quickly. I have other plans inside, but once we're in, it's going to be a life-or-death battle! No one should show any mercy!"Stealthbane flexed his fists and replied, "Do I look like a good guy to you? Just watch me deal with them!"No sooner had he spoken than there was a tremendous roar. The ground shook, and the door of the Ark swung