Starting to Gain Experience from Push-Ups Chapter 1161 - 564:

Previously on Starting to Gain Experience from Push-Ups...
Jiang Yun and Xu Kuan, seeking refuge in the harsh world, declare their willingness to join the Illuminati, with Jiang Yun speaking for the timid child Bean as well. Their eyes reflect a desperate resolve, grasping at the promise of survival under Fang Cheng's strength. The Professor then details the organization's strict rules for preparatory members: a three-month observation with assessments of loyalty, unconditional compliance to orders, and dire consequences for any betrayal, which the pair solemnly acknowledge.

Managing a business demands rules, especially for an unusual group facing elevated dangers?

Should the Illuminati suddenly behave like close pals and vow riches, it would indeed mimic a pyramid scam.

A person could get deceived and yet assist in tallying the profits.

The more rigid the structure and the more distinct the incentives and penalties, the greater the sign that this group means real business with enduring strategies.

That feeling of 'structure' is precisely what these aimless and unanchored wanderers miss out on.

Once the Professor wrapped up his explanation of the rules, a touch of gravity settled over the room.

Observing the respect and compliance in their expressions, Fang Cheng gently cleared his throat, signaling that the heavy discussion had run its course.

Lin Chuqiao picked up on it and clapped her hands just right, her sharp clap swiftly dispelling the heavy mood inside.

"Okay, make sure to remember what the Professor said."

"Truth is, these guidelines cover everyone here, not just you— even the Chairman. When we share a common purpose, we'll act like kin, eating from the same bowl."

With her cheerful grin back, Lin Chuqiao approached Jiang Yun, acting like a longtime companion, and casually gave her shoulder a pat:

"Though the Illuminati has few members at the moment, if we unite our efforts, who knows our future heights, but we'll definitely carve out a spot in East Capital's shadowy underworld."

While saying this, she elegantly stretched out her right hand, her gaze sparkling with mirth:

"Let's introduce ourselves properly— I'm Lin Chuqiao. Casually, feel free to call me Chu Qiao."

Facing the pale, slim hand offered to her and the genuine look in her eyes, Jiang Yun felt briefly unsure.

She instinctively wiped her damp palm roughly against her outfit before timidly reaching out:

"Chu... Miss Chuqiao, greetings."

Even though Jiang Yun had permission to use her first name, she hesitated to seem rude.

The term "Miss" came out with heightened respect, her gaze brimming with astonishment and joy.

Lin Chuqiao skipped correcting the title for now, instead giving a gentle squeeze to keep Jiang Yun's hand in hers.

The icy and rigid divide between them started to thaw through their shared smiles and looks.

"Now that you're part of us, drop the stiff manners."

With feelings settling among the group, Fang Cheng murmured on, resuming:

"Sure, the Illuminati lacks numbers, yet what matters more to me is the worth each individual contributes."

"Be it in direct fights or behind-the-scenes aid, I'll assign you roles that best match your abilities and gifts."

During his words, his eyes scanned the trio:

"Anybody eager to share about themselves first?"

"I... I'll go ahead."

After a brief pause, Xu Kuan rose to his feet ahead of others.

Thanks to the earlier open chats, his tension had eased, and he stood a bit taller.

"Chairman, my education's limited, and I don't get advanced mechanics."

Xu Kuan gulped, lifting his roughened palms:

"Yet oddly, when I handle any device, a blueprint-like image pops up in my head without effort."

"Regardless of the intricate design, a quick look and feel lets me see how the cogs connect and the wires flow."

"In my hometown, I labored in a CNC tool factory, mastering any technique the expert showed me in one go."

As he delved into his strengths, the anxiety left Xu Kuan's eyes, giving way to an unusual gleam, his speech gaining ease.

"Eventually, fleeing issues, I arrived in East Capital and scraped by at a shady garage tuning illicit racing vehicles."

"Glancing at those altered race cars, I spot instantly if the engine compression suffices or the shocks are misaligned by millimeters. Hand me the tools, and I'll tune that junk pile to run smooth."

His gaze brightened while fixing on Fang Cheng, fingers instinctively twisting like tightening bolts, eager to dive in:

"Don't take my word— fetch any faulty motor or gear, I'll repair it right there, perhaps upgrade it too."

Fang Cheng noted his keen enthusiasm but held off on requesting a demo.

Rather, he glanced at the Professor next to him and inquired:

"The van that brought us is parked below still, yeah?"

Grasping the intent, the Professor pushed up his specs and answered:

"Correct. Its engine's worn out badly, suspension mushy like fluff— definitely calls for heavy upgrades."

"Beyond boosting velocity, add armored panels and concealed arm compartments for upcoming group operations."

"Fine, soon enough, have Xu Kuan work on that van."

Fang Cheng faced Xu Kuan again, brimming with eagerness, and stated:

"Given your talents, you'll handle vehicle tuning and arms upkeep for the group."

"Brother Cheng, one more job that Xu Kuan could assist with."

Lin Chuqiao chimed in abruptly, pulling a creased diagram from her carryall:

"Perfect timing, renovations are underway at our dual sites."

"I've drafted ideas for security setups and snares, but they're all on paper; we require an expert to create blueprints and execute the builds."

She eyed Xu Kuan with hope:

"What do you say? It's a major undertaking— up for it?"

"Absolutely, count on me!"

Learning of actual devices to tinker and designs to examine, Xu Kuan flushed with thrill, pounding his chest vigorously: