"They're the Orlandos," Henry explained. "The head of the family is Paxton Orlando. He has a son, Wince Orlando, a younger brother named Kayden Orlando, and his wife, Madam Orlando. They left Salt City more than 40 years ago, and it seems, with such a grand gesture, they're planning to return."As Henry introduced them, the Orlandos approached.Paxton warmly greeted, "Mr. Williams, welcome, welcome! Your presence adds tremendous value to tonight's banquet!"Henry replied courteously, "Mr. Orlando, that might be an exaggeration."Meanwhile, Irvin and his family arrived. Being among the most prominent families in Salt City, the Orlandos invited them to take their seats.After everyone settled, Paxton smiled and explained, "Originally, I wanted a small gathering, but Wince insisted on a banquet. Since he's my only son, I went along with it."His words clearly conveyed his affection for Wince.Irvin chuckled. "Young people are always like this. My son also enjoys hosting banquets fo
Both nodded at Wince.-The banquet wrapped up smoothly, and by a little 11:30 p.m., the guests had dispersed, leaving the Orlando manor in a quiet state once again.Paxton's expression turned somewhat solemn as he remarked, "It's a bit troublesome. I didn't expect the Sonnexes and Williams to have become in-laws."This revelation was something he only learned after arriving in Salt City. As the former largest family in Salt City, the Orlandos naturally desired to reclaim that position. However, the current situation in Salt City raised concerns for Paxton."There can't be two alphas in one pack." Kayden squinted and commented, "I see that the Williams and Sonnexes get along quite well."Despite some overlapping industries, the lack of fierce competition between the Williams and Sonnexes perplexed Paxton and Kayden. When the Orlandos were in Salt City years ago, they engaged in intense rivalry.Paxton nodded. "It's indeed puzzling, but there's some good news. Wince, what do you
Back at the Rosewood Estate, Eric asked Ruth about the two remaining grandmasters. However, the Combat Department hadn't yet located them.Eric wasn't too concerned. They didn't pose much of a threat to Tiger and the team.The Combat Department's operation wasn't exactly a success, given that two individuals had slipped through the cracks.Nevertheless, Eric had his hands full with the ongoing technological advancements within the Innova Group. While the technical department handled most issues, some tricky problems required his personal attention.After work, he and Sylvia planned to have dinner with Andy to discuss the company's recent developments.With Andy recovering and Michael overseas, only Eric and Sylvia were left as key figures in the Innova Group.Leaving the office, they bumped into Wince, who, having seen Eric at the banquet, approached them with a gentlemanly demeanor."Ms. Williams, may I invite you to dinner to discuss the business plans for Salt City? Would you
Wince's plan to wait for Sylvia at the Williams residence had hit a snag.Henry glanced at him and remarked, "Wince, I get your intentions, but word is that Ve has someone in her heart, and her decision won't budge.""Is that so...," Wince murmured, convinced he could change Sylvia's mind, even if she had someone she loved.Disappointed, he left after dinner.Amelia expressed her displeasure as the others departed, saying, "Honey, you should've just said Vee is married! You're causing trouble for Eric."Henry explained, "You don't get it. The Orlandos won't smoothly do business in Salt City. To thrive here, they must go through us and the Sonnexes."Brook and Misty are married. Paxton must see our deep ties. They covet Sylvia's CEO position and aim to sow discord between us and the Sonnexes. Their plan is ambitious, but calculations don't always work. I have a son-in-law! Hehe!"Amelia sighed. "Still, it's troublesome for Eric.""Don't worry," Henry assured. "Eric can handle it
Sylvia orchestrated the matter and called Paxton the next morning on behalf of the Innova Group. She expressed the intention to visit the Orlandos in the afternoon after work.The Orlandos were delighted.Recognition was something people craved, and Sylvia's call undoubtedly symbolized the Innova Group's acknowledgment of the Orlandos. Sylvia's connection with the Williams also hinted at the Williams' recognition of them.Wince felt even happier, as it seemed Sylvia recognized him as well. Wince had an imaginative mind, but why would she visit if Sylvia didn't acknowledge him?-In the afternoon, Ruth dressed remarkably, catching everyone by surprise."You're so stylish," Eric remarked, praising Ruth for the first time. He wanted to use different words but was afraid of upsetting her."No choice," Ruth explained. "The Crimson grandmasters have a high status. They likely have information about me. I'm afraid they might recognize me if I don't put on heavy makeup. In that case, it
Paxton nodded. However, Wince continued escorting the three out of the Orlando residence. While getting into the car, he seized the opportunity to slip a note into Ruth's hand.Ruth pocketed the note, and Wince appeared pleased.As the car left the Orlando manor, Ruth tossed the note to Sylvia, remarking, "That scoundrel actually has the nerve to make a move on me. Did he also slip a note to you?"Sylvia picked up the note. It contained Wince's phone number, implying his romantic interest. This revelation allowed Sylvia to see through Wince's character.Despite openly displaying affection for Sylvia, Wince seemed romantically interested in Ruth, who remained uninterested in him.Uninterested in Wince, Eric asked, "So, any discoveries?"Ruth shook her head. "I only found out that Paxton and Wince both know martial arts, but their appearances don't quite match the two missing Crimson grandmasters.""Not quite?" Eric asked.Sylvia suggested, "Perhaps those two grandmasters aren't
"Are you sure about that?" Wince asked.Upon hearing that Eric and Sylvia had entered the Rosewood Estate together, Wince didn't initially react much.However, the person reporting back added speculation about a possible affair, sparking Wince's imagination."Yes, I saw it clearly!" The person explained, "His assistant left after dropping them off at the Rosewood Estate. I personally watched them get out of the car and enter the elevator together!""Fuck!" Wince cursed. "I can't believe she's married!""I don't think so!" Paxton said, "While it's true that Eric is an exceptional young man, do you truly believe that's sufficient to captivate Sylvia? What would she gain by being with him? Is she intrigued by those daunting scars on their faces? Can't she choose another suitor? Why would she opt for someone as visually unappealing as Eric?"Wince nodded. He had been frightened when he saw Eric at the banquet. Besides, being the Williams heiress, Sylvia wouldn't be interested in Eric
The Orlandos were also preparing to enter the pharmaceutical industry in Salt City, which had always been a highly profitable business.Soon, Ruth obtained relevant information about the Orlandos, including Paxton and Kayden. However, based on the available information, she still could not confirm whether Paxton, Kayden, or even Wince were the two grandmasters who disappeared in Salt City.Ruth frowned. "Do I really have to get close to Wince?"She had no favorable impression of him. In fact, she found him quite repulsive. Nevertheless, for the sake of the mission, she decided to approach Wince and see if she could gather any useful information from him.After making the decision, she took out her phone and called Wince, speaking in a sweet voice. "Mr. Orlando, are you asleep yet?"-At the Orlando residence.The thought of Ruth's figure ignited a fire in Wince. He knew Ruth would contact him. After all, he was one of the Orlandos. If she became his girlfriend, she would get muc
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