Chapter 120: The Organization
Zack sighed. Before the apocalypse, his life had been confined to a different social class, far removed from this shadowy elite. "Can you trace the founder of this organization?" he asked, his voice edged with impatience.
"Apologies, Sir, but I couldn't find any information about the founder," Ego admitted. Then, after a brief pause, he added, "However, I did find significant financial ties between ASR and several global syndicates, as well as half the individuals on Forbes's billionaire list."
Zack's jaw tightened. "So, they're tied to the elite and criminal underworld alike," he muttered. "Interesting." Turning back to Lilian, Zack gestured for her to continue. "How did you get involved with them before the apocalypse?"
"It was during a business negotiation," she said, her voice calm but reflective. "I was meeting with a client, and they brought someone else along. Later, I found out that person was a member of ASR."
Zack raised an eyebrow. "What did they want? Were they trying to recruit you?"
"Possibly," Lilian said, tilting her head in thought. "They didn't say it outright, but they seemed interested in forming a long-term partnership. At the time, I dismissed it as just another business deal."
Zack leaned back, his mind racing as he pieced together the fragments of information. The Vanguard organization wasn't just a player in the shadows; it was a kingmaker, pulling strings behind the scenes. And now, in this post-apocalyptic world, it posed a direct threat to his plans. "Ego," Zack said after a moment, his voice sharp, "dig deeper. Pull up anything we can use to find their active members or hidden bases. If they have assets, I want to know about them."
"Yes, Sir," Ego replied. "I'll begin compiling the data."
Turning back to Lilian, Zack's lips curled into a cold smile. "Good work. Now, it's time to dismantle this Vanguard organization piece by piece. We'll start with their visible assets and move from there."