As Lily Quinn finished distributing the contracts, each employee eagerly grabbed their copy of this weighty commitment and began skimming the terms with anticipation.
Unlike the typical contracts filled with dense legalese and overwhelming clauses, this one stood out. It featured larger fonts, clearer layouts, and neatly categorized sections, making it easy to read and understand even for those unfamiliar with legal jargon.
About 20 minutes passed, and the once constant sound of rustling pages in the conference room gradually faded. In its place, the crisp scratching of pens signing names echoed softly through the room.
Zach Evans sat quietly, observing the expressions of his employees transform—from initial seriousness to growing excitement and satisfaction. He knew that this contract, which he had painstakingly crafted, had genuinely moved these individuals, who had once been uncertain and anxious about their future. The spark in their eyes reflected more than just appreciation for the generous benefits. It was a sign of renewed confidence in the company's future.
As the final contract was signed, Zach took a deep breath, clearing his throat softly to grab everyone's attention. "It looks like everyone's satisfied," he remarked.
"Yes!" The room erupted in a unified response, like a thunderous roar. Every voice was infused with joy and excitement, expressing not just approval of the contract but a firm commitment to the company's future.
"Good." Zach nodded in satisfaction, glancing around at the sea of eager faces. After a moment of silence, he continued, "Our company places great emphasis on the sense of belonging and collective pride. That's why I've prepared a special segment—an induction oath."
Some employees looked puzzled, and Zach gave a reassuring smile, his tone lighthearted. "Don't worry, induction oaths aren't unusual. Many large companies have these ceremonies."
He paused, gauging their reactions before proceeding, "You see, joining a new organization means becoming part of a collective. It means sharing responsibilities and celebrating achievements together. And taking an induction oath is a way to reinforce this commitment, helping us move forward as a united team toward a common goal."
Internally, Zach added, "And this will be a great way to boost everyone's morale, leading to more positive energy points for me!" He felt a surge of excitement, already picturing his energy levels skyrocketing. Determined to capitalize on this opportunity, he decided to throw caution to the wind, willing to set aside his dignity for the greater good. "It's a win-win. The employees get the best benefits and salaries, and I get my positive energy points. Perfect!"
"All right, everyone, follow along! Raise your left hand high, fist to the sky! Pound your right fist to your chest! Move quickly, with style! Then tap your forehead—smart and sharp! Tap your shoulder—full of vigor! Tap your chest—brimming with positive energy! Tap your thighs—stride with confidence! Now, swing your arms wide and hop in place three times! Shout out loud, 'I am a little star! From today onward, I will strive to be a shining star! I will bring glory to our group, warmth to the world, and walk the path of positivity, never backing down!'"
Zach's face flushed a deep shade of red, like a ripe apple. Whether it was the ridiculous moves and impassioned speech or the awkwardness swirling within, he couldn't tell.
Across from him, the employees were stunned into silence, jaws slightly ajar, staring at him as if they had just witnessed the most surreal scene of their lives. The absurd pledge still echoed in their ears, and the bizarre gestures replayed in their minds. They struggled to process what had happened, trying to piece together their shattered perceptions of reality—but clearly, they were failing.
Raising his right hand, Zach pretended to wipe his forehead casually, coughing lightly to mask his embarrassment. He steadied himself and, with feigned calmness, turned to Leo Donovan, who was standing beside him, "Leo, did you record my moves just now? I'm setting up a company group chat. Send the video there so everyone can get familiar with the process. We'll officially start the induction oath in half an hour."
Leo grinned and nodded, "Got it, Mr. Evans!" He fiddled with his phone, barely able to contain his amusement. It was obvious that this "one-of-a-kind" induction ceremony had piqued his curiosity.
Meanwhile, Lily Quinn, who had been observing quietly, let out a soft scoff before turning away and hastily exiting the hall.
An hour later...
Ding! Positive energy points +20
Ding! Positive energy points +20
Ding! Positive energy points +20
...
"Congratulations, Host! Successfully recruited new employees. Reward: $500, soil nutrition solution cultivation technology unlocked, and an additional $10,000 corporate fund has been granted (fund source secured through technical means, Host may use it without concern)."
"Detected high employee satisfaction with company benefits. Additional reward: $1,000 and 50 bottles of soil nutrition solution."
"Fantastic! What a double win!" Zach's grin stretched from ear to ear. With funding secured, technology unlocked, and employees satisfied, he felt a wave of optimism for the future.
"Looks like it's time to get us some cars—one for me, one for Leo, and one for Lily. At least we won't have to keep hailing cabs, and I won't have to hear Leo grumbling about how a company president shouldn't be taking taxis all the time!" He thought cheerfully, already envisioning himself cruising around town in a flashy convertible.
Lost in his daydream for a moment, Zach snapped back to reality and rubbed his face to clear his mind. Then, bursting with excitement, he sprang up from his chair and called Leo and Lily over to discuss what cars they should buy.
"Lily, that investor sent us another round of funding. It should've already been transferred. Can you check?"
Zach said casually, as if mentioning an insignificant detail. Although he knew the money was safely in their account, he pretended otherwise—better to play it safe, especially when dealing with the system. One could never be too cautious.
Lily froze, blinking in disbelief. "Wait, what? Is he a fool or blind? Why would he invest more in you? Are you two…?" She trailed off, suspicion and mischief dancing in her eyes, as if she had just stumbled upon some juicy scandal.
Zach burst out laughing, shaking his head. "What do you mean 'blind'? He's a visionary investor who sees our company's bright future, get it? We're a hidden gem."
Then, with a playful shift in tone, he continued, "But the real question is, shouldn't we start thinking about what cars to get?"