American Tax Officer

Nicola turned her head toward the defendant's bench where only McCauley and Eulalia remained, and asked, "Defendants, what do you have to say in response to Director David's accusations?"
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"Your Honor, what I'd like to refute is that the acquisition of Fox Film Corporation by Disney was approved by the regulatory authorities, and as for various taxes like corporate income tax and capital gains tax, all were paid off one by one, there's absolutely no wrongdoing!"

As a member of the legal department at Fox Film Corporation, Eulalia naturally knew some details of the acquisition, but what made him nervous was that he did not know how much information the Western Suburb Branch had on this deal.

"Really? Are you sure?"

"I am sure!"

Although Eulalia answered with firmness, he was still extremely nervous inside.

Nicola exchanged glances with David and, upon receiving a slight nod from him, she then announced, "Given the extensive implications of the acquisition of Fox Film Corporation, further verification is needed. We will choose another date to continue the hearing, and that concludes today's session!"

McCauley and Eulalia finally breathed a sigh of relief, it seemed that the Western Suburbs Branch had only looked into the acquisition itself and had not yet obtained actual evidence.

As long as they were not directly challenged at this moment, they believed that with the resources and connections of Fox Film Corporation and Disney, the issue could still be managed properly.

After the court session disbanded, David, as usual, exchanged a few words with João and Felton, among others from the IRS system, before stepping out of the city bureau's main entrance.

The reporters, who had been 'starving', immediately surrounded him with their microphones ready.

David gestured for everyone to quiet down by pressing his hands downward before saying, "Today's hearing has concluded. Due to the mishandling by the teams of Julie, Will, Cameron... these big names, there indeed were omissions in their tax filings. However, our Western Suburbs Branch has now reached a settlement with them, and they have agreed to pay a penalty fee. Let's consider this matter closed!"

David's statement not only clarified the legality of his Oscar operation but also provided face-saving measures for these celebrities by not publicly accusing them of tax evasion, instead pointing the finger at their teams.

The media, already aware of some developments from the courtroom, were not very surprised by this outcome. However, a reporter from the Los Angeles Times followed up with, "Director David, it is said that a new case was involved at the trial, the 2019 acquisition of Fox Film Corporation. Is there such a matter?"

With the reporter's question, the crowd fell silent, all ears tuned in to hear the response.

By now, it was clear to the astute observer that David's intention in bringing these celebrities to trial was merely to draw out connections to the Big Eight Hollywood studios.

And this so-called acquisition case of Fox Film Corporation was likely the next strategic move by the Western Suburb Branch.

But that was not the most important issue; what was of utmost concern was that Fox Film Corporation had been acquired by the industry giant, Disney—this was the focal point of interest for everyone present.

"There is such a matter, but it is currently under investigation. As soon as there is any progress, I will announce it immediately..."

While David was being interviewed, at the same time, over at Fox Film Corporation, Hawner was also making urgent arrangements.

"Jacob, Jackson, go to Disney immediately and check with the team that was responsible for the acquisition. Align our facts and testimonies so that the people from the Western Suburbs Branch don't come knocking with questions," Hawner instructed.

"Steinbeck, go talk to the regulatory authorities and make sure they don't say anything out of turn. Also, Bog, try to meet with McCauley and ensure that he distances himself from our company as much as possible..."

While Hawner was still arranging his directives, his secretary entered the room and said, "Mr. Hawner, Disney has called. They have convened a meeting at the headquarters and have asked for your attendance."

"Proceed as I instructed, and make sure there are no slip-ups!" Hawner said before quickly standing up and heading towards Disney Film Company, accompanied by his driver.

The two companies were not far apart—just a ten-minute journey. Soon, Hawner arrived at the Disney Film Company building, and was subsequently led into Okonji's office.

After 20 minutes of discussion, the two emerged from the office, walking through the corridor to the door of a meeting room, entering one after the other.

Inside, representatives from the other six major Hollywood studios were already gathered.

After seating themselves, Okonji was the first to speak, "I am sure everyone is aware of the outcome at the court today, what are your thoughts?"

The people from the other six major film studios looked at each other. Today's court session could be considered the first shot fired by the Western Suburbs Branch in their battle against Hollywood.

However, strictly speaking, it was currently a declaration of war only against Fox and Disney, so the other six studios were not yet overly concerned.

Okonji seemed to sense their thoughts, his expression darkened as he said, "Don't think that just because he's targeting Fox and our company right now that the rest of you will be spared. If our two companies go down, do you think you'll be able to remain uninvolved?"