Two hundred million dollars might not even cover a year’s coffee for federal government employees, but for the United Nations, it was a substantial windfall. These days, the UN’s status was increasingly diminished. Not only did it struggle to generate revenue, but it couldn’t even collect membership dues. Funding was always tight, and occasionally, America would drag it out for a public scolding. Someone offering 200 million dollars was like manna from heaven. France’s annual UN dues were only about 130 million dollars.
Thus, the UN officials enthusiastically organised the entire donation process: giant cheque, photos, thanks, and group pictures.
After the formalities, a UN official excitedly said, “We thank Mr. Bernard Arnault for his contributions to the fight against terrorism. Now, please welcome Mr. Arnault to deliver his speech.”
At the UN official’s warm invitation, Bernard Arnault took the microphone, faced countless media reporters, and smiled, “I am deeply honoured to have this opportunity to come to the United Nations and contribute to the global fight against terrorism.”
He paused briefly, scanning the reporters below, and continued, “As you all know, a few days ago on White Horse Island, a shocking terrorist attack nearly occurred. Fortunately, at the critical moment, I used financial leverage to buy off the terrorist leader, averting a tragedy that would have claimed the lives of myself, my wife, Miss Svet, and hundreds of guests and staff.”
“I used to think our lives were far removed from terrorist attacks, but this incident made me realise that danger lurks around every one of us.”
“This world is not just plagued by terrorism in certain regions. Even in secluded vacation paradises, there are those with malicious intent, harbouring hidden threats.”
“So, today, I stand here in the spotlight, hoping through this donation to take a stand on the front lines of the fight against terrorism.”
At this point, Bernard Arnault, filled with righteous indignation, declared loudly, “Many have asked me, by choosing to confront terrorists and their backers head-on, aren’t you afraid of being smeared, retaliated against, or even assassinated?”
The crowd below smirked. As media professionals, they knew Bernard Arnault was mocking the American government’s smear campaign. He was clever, framing their attacks as retaliation from the backers of terrorists, effectively putting them beneath his feet.
At that moment, Bernard Arnault waved his hand and shouted with conviction, “I say, I’m not afraid. I fear nothing. In the past, I might have been cautious, worried about my career or the negative impact on my group. But now, I no longer prioritise personal or corporate interests. On White Horse Island, I already died once. Every day I live since then is a gift from God. So, what is there to fear? I will stand up bravely and say no to the filth of this world. Even if they come at me with knives, guns, or sticks, even if I’m crushed to pieces, I will not back down.”
His passionate speech and righteous tone stunned the reporters below.
Except for the American journalists, who felt a bit sour and uneasy, the others erupted into enthusiastic applause.
Bernard Arnault’s words were impeccable. To stand before the world’s media and declare fearlessness in the face of terrorist retaliation or assassination was truly courageous.
Crucially, Bernard Arnault was among the smartest people in the world. If the masterminds behind White Horse Island were Middle Eastern extremists, even with Ye Chen’s backing, he wouldn’t dare be so brazen. Those groups might genuinely launch extreme attacks in retaliation. The Rejuvenation Pill was great, but you needed to be alive to use it.
Fortunately, the masterminds behind White Horse Island were America, Blackwater, and the ineffective Syrian opposition.
Instead of confronting the Syrian opposition, Bernard Arnault relentlessly targeted America and Blackwater.
Though shameless, they operated within the normal global framework. They wouldn’t dare assassinate him in this context. The only thing they could do was hit his business, which perfectly aligned with his goal of racking up losses for experience points.
So, Bernard Arnault could boldly treat America and Blackwater as easy targets.
The applause lasted at least two or three minutes.
When it finally subsided, Bernard Arnault faced the cameras with a stern expression and said, “Just before I came on stage, I heard that American media have been digging up things I’ve done in the past and publicising them widely. I won’t make excuses here. After all, businesspeople often employ unconventional tactics. No one is exempt.”
He then sneered, “However, given the coordinated smear campaign by American media at this moment, I have completely lost confidence in the American market. Therefore, I announce that all my group’s brand stores in America will officially cease operations after midnight tonight. If the American government and media want me to choose between shutting up or getting out, I choose to get out.”
