Soon, a group of individuals stepped forward, proclaiming, "We won't gang up on you! Let's settle this with one-on-one combat. Choose someone!"Despite their internal rivalries, they united when confronted with an external challenge.Eric pointed at a person and declared, "You, then!"The chosen individual stepped forward, flexing his fists and sneering. "Instructor Johnson, if I injure you, I won't cover your medical expenses!"Squinting, Eric observed the person before him. The individual emitted a familiar aura reminiscent of the three grandmasters at the Hampton residence. This aura suggested he had taken someone else's life before and had extensive combat experience.However, Eric didn't find him intimidating. Despite his rich combat experience, he was just a grandmaster. According to Urias, a grandmaster could never defeat him.With that thought in mind, Eric shook his head and said, "Don't worry. You don't need to cover expenses."As soon as he spoke, the person kicked th

"This is a good thing!" Henry exclaimed.Even though the Williams were a powerful family in King City, they lacked significant support. They could handle problems on their own, but if things got out of hand, they might struggle. In essence, their ability to manage risks was weak without a strong background.However, the issue had been resolved. Eric, Sylvia's husband, was there, and Henry was confident that he would assist them in times of trouble.Brook took a sip of wine and exclaimed, "Eric, from now on, no one will dare to mess with you! Even kingpins will have to bow down when they see you!"Misty lightly tapped on his shoulder, signaling him to stop talking.Nevertheless, Brook's statement held true. Eric had established a strong reputation in the underworld, earning respect from Matteo in King City and Tiger in Salt City.Sylvester chimed in. "Brook is right. Eric has achieved the most among us.""Of course." Seraphine added, "He's Aunt Grace's son. He's destined for grea

Ruth exclaimed as she kicked Eric back, "You've got something going on!"Women, especially those from the Combat Department like Ruth, were always a proud species. Eric's ability to withstand her kick without injury surprised her. It seemed that those recognized by the Combat Department were not weaklings.Eric shook his hand, thankful that he had mastered the Basic Breath Regulation Method, allowing him to mobilize his inner energy at any time. Ruth's kick could have easily broken his hand otherwise.He cast a sidelong glance at Ruth and said, "Step aside. I won't fight a woman.""I'm not just a woman." Ruth sneered and launched an attack on Eric.Those who taunted her would usually meet a miserable end. She instantly closed in on Eric. The others watched intently. Ruth held a high position in the Combat Department, and anyone from there held a lofty status. When necessary, they could easily mobilize local military forces. Ruth's status was even more esteemed—rumors suggested

The Combat Department functioned with remarkable efficiency. Upon Ruth's return to King City, she found a file on Eric waiting on her desk. As she delved into Eric's records, a sense of bewilderment overcame her.Eric's history appeared mundane until a year and a half ago. Abandoned as a child, he graduated from Salt City University, worked at Westman Technology, and had a girlfriend. Following a breakup, he married into the affluent Williams family, signaling a significant shift in his life and the emergence of extraordinary abilities.Ruth remarked in disdain, "I thought he was upright, but he's just another scumbag? Abandoning his girlfriend and marrying a rich girl? How shallow!"Judging from his unclear records, she had already deemed Eric worthy of condemnation. Marrying another woman immediately after a breakup seemed to solidify the label of a scumbag. However, further scrutiny of the file revealed a conspicuous omission.While the records detailed Eric's adoptive parents,

Eric a legend too? That seemed like a joke!At 40 years old, Pierce achieved legendary status, making him the youngest legend in history. Meanwhile, Eric hadn't even reached 30.Restlessness spread through the formation. While training had maintained their discipline, every soldier aspired to become a general. Any soldier lacking this ambition wasn't considered good. Joining the Combat Department was the pinnacle of their military careers, the ultimate goal for these martial artists.Pierce addressed Eric as he approached, "Eric Johnson, your reputation precedes you.""You must be the legendary figure from the Combat Department," Eric replied."Exactly." Pierce nodded, extending his hand to Eric.As they shook hands, a powerful aura emanated from both, creating a palpable pressure that made others hesitate to approach. Their contest was initiated at the touch of their hands.Luke was taken aback. Expecting Pierce to recruit Eric, he had prepared special promotions to secure the