Sylvia was astonished. A few years ago, when Eric faced the leader of the Crimson Order, their battle was evenly matched, ultimately leaving Eric severely injured. How had only a few years passed, and Eric could now handle it with one hand? The speed of his growth was simply astounding.But as Eric had said, no matter how high one's martial arts skills were, they were useless against a bullet.Since the Haevon virus began rampaging, not only had the virus spread uncontrollably, but armed conflicts had erupted everywhere. In places where the system had collapsed, it was the armed forces that reestablished order. Even the most formidable individuals in such places were often doomed.Eric wasn't foolish enough to seek death by going there. What was wrong with living peacefully? A warm home with a wife and kids was far more comfortable than anything else.-A few days later, Jack and his group returned from abroad. This time, they had lost several more people, though they managed to d
Fortunately, the virus was no longer as terrifying due to the vaccine's distribution.By now, the sages believed that the Innova Group should not distribute the vaccine for free. Firstly, there was no obligation, and secondly, the cost of production was high.Most importantly, in the course of doing this, people would indeed die. Without funding, who would handle the aftermath? How would they manage it? Could a simple statement solve everything? If words alone could solve issues, the world wouldn't be in its current state.After experiencing these events twice, Jack realized how naive and ridiculous the initial decisions had been. However, humans were always capable of growth, learning from experiences, and gradually changing their worldview through the process.The sages and strategists had become an unstoppable force. They had grown, showing both courage and wisdom. After spending a few days in Salt City, they set off once more.Anna no longer felt anything for Eric. She believe
Two days later, Jared's memorial service came to an end.Although Kayden had once been somewhat of a troublemaker, his loyalty to his family was beyond reproach.Kayden sighed. "Life is but a few decades long. Why fight over this and that? Eric, for all the wrongs my parents did to you, I apologize on their behalf."Eric patted Kayden's shoulder. "In the end, we are family. What's past is past. There's no need to bring it up again."He bore grudges, but he also knew that some things had to be let go. How could one live while holding on to old hatreds?Hank also spoke at length, though not about the Johnson family. He lamented the troubled times. "The Dortmund virus was already bad enough, and now we have the Haevon virus."Luckily, we live in the countryside. There's less movement of people, and the air is cleaner. Sometimes, living in the countryside isn't so bad—no need to yearn for those big cities."Eric smiled. "Every place has its advantages. Take care of yourself. Despite
Tiger was the top figure in Salt City's underground scene, and with the recent legalization of underground arenas, his prominence had only increased. Thanks to the earlier restructuring by the Combat Department, figures like Tiger had become more visible and legitimate.While Eric wasn't particularly concerned with the affairs of the underworld, he figured it wouldn't hurt to ask a few questions.Brook sighed and said, "What else can be said? We just aren't as skilled. But there's something strange about it. Those people didn't show up early or late. Could they be associated with the sages and strategists?"The Haevon virus had swept across the world, bringing out all sorts of characters. It wouldn't be surprising if a group of skilled fighters followed the sages and strategists. Maybe, as Brook suggested, those fighters were indeed part of the same faction.Eric shook his head. "I doubt it. They are all out on missions. Their tasks have been exceptionally heavy lately, so it's unl
Tyson had taught the Williams siblings martial arts, with Sylvia achieving the highest accomplishments and earning the title of grandmaster. The three Williams brothers weren't as skilled, but they were more than capable of self-defense.Despite Tyson’s advanced age, the Williams family was still willing to support him financially. Before Eric, Tyson had been the family’s top defense asset. They were one of the wealthiest families in Salt City, so this kind of martial defense was necessary.-Around 10:00 p.m., both men returned.Tyson sat down and took a sip of water. "It's confirmed. They are definitely martial artists from the past! They're all still around!"Maybe not exactly," he corrected himself, "but their legacies certainly are! I just don't understand why they are appearing in major cities. What do they hope to achieve? Are they planning to carve out territory for themselves?"What era is this? What use are martial arts anymore?"Even if they aren't afraid of knives, h
The Williams residence was suddenly ablaze with lights.Brook, Sylvester, Connor, and even Tyson came out to see what was happening.Hearing the commotion, Amelia emerged in her robe. "What's going on? Are you planning to fight? Can't a person get a good night's sleep around here?""It's fine if you wake me, but if you disturb my precious daughter, I won't let it slide! Sylvester, what are you thinking, causing a ruckus in the middle of the night? With Eric here, what's there to worry about?"Sylvester rubbed his nose, feeling singled out. Wasn't this her beloved son-in-law's affair? They were just there to back him up, yet now it seemed they were the main culprits.Brook almost wanted to complain but was held back by Sylvester, who knew Amelia's temperament better than anyone.After venting a bit, Amelia went back inside, thinking, 'Why bother with these men?'The villa's soundproofing was excellent—they wouldn't hear a thunderstorm, let alone a fight. With Eric around, they co
Tiger stood beside Eric. "These few are indeed no match for you, but dealing with a few minor thugs is enough!"The leader said nothing more and merely nodded to those around him.Among them, Connor was the weakest. The attacker zeroed in on Connor and charged at him.In the blink of an eye, the attacker was in front of Connor, who was unable to react in time.However, there was someone faster than the attacker!Tiger didn't even notice that Eric had vanished from his side.Eric arrived ahead of the attacker and delivered a thunderous punch!The blow landed with a resounding thud.The attacker, who had charged in swiftly, was sent flying just as quickly.With a single punch, he crashed heavily in front of his leader, spewing blood from his mouth.The leader looked down, stunned. He hadn't even seen Eric join the fray. And the power behind that punch... was terrifying!"Eric!" Connor was so startled that he broke out in a sweat.Eric nodded slightly. "Tell Sylvester and Broo
"Mr. Johnson always knows how to handle the situation!" Tiger lit a cigarette and said, "But I have a feeling they won't let it go easily. They'll definitely come back to cause more trouble."If they're just targeting the streets, it's not a big deal. But I fear they have bigger plans to create chaos in the entire city and profit from it!"Tiger knew their tactics all too well because he had climbed the ranks using the same methods. They would test the waters and gauge the street's strength. Only after confirming they could take control would they make their move.They undoubtedly had big ambitions!"There's no need for concern, Tiger," Eric said. "If that's the case, then these people indeed have malicious intentions."Let's do this: I'll figure out a way to expose them."Tiger nodded repeatedly. "It seems like that's our best option for now."-The night passed without incident.How despicable were those rogue elements?Eric had thought last night's encounter involved all