At this moment, the Huaqi Hotel was silent and still.
If a passerby saw this scene, they would surely think it was closed for the day.
Little did they know, what was about to take place here would be a transaction unlike any other.
Inside the hotel, every spot was guarded closely, not even a fly could get through.
In addition, there was a 360-degree surveillance setup, inspected multiple times, ensuring no blind spots.
The location for the transaction was chosen not only for its geographical benefits but also because it was private property.
If an official location were chosen, any explosion would have negative repercussions.
Inside one of the hotel’s presidential suites, all the windows were tightly sealed, letting no light in.
Gerard, with a cigar in his mouth, sat on the sofa, his face void of expression.
Beside him stood two people, like statues guarding him.
The room was spacious, at least over 100 square meters.
Besides the sofa and coffee table, there was a large area for movement.
But current conditions saw the room filled with people, counting to a total of eighteen.
These people’s states were terrible, adorned with injuries all over.
Ning Che slumped in their midst.
Blood traces on him had already solidified, beginning to scab.
His clothes were dotted with black spots, marks stained by blood.
Ning Che’s long hair was disheveled, head slightly tilted back against the wall.
In her weakened state, this was the only way she could support herself.
"I’ve already decided to release you, why look at me with such eyes?"
Gerard, like a victor, looked at Ning Che and the others.
With a superior air, as if announcing his triumph.
"At this point, it’s pointless to say anything."
Ning Che spoke weakly and feebly:
"Your actions are a declaration of war against the Central Guards Brigade. From the moment you attacked, the future will be relentless; letting us go is not a wise choice."
Gerard half-closed his eyes; for days, he had been trying to make Ning Che yield.
But on this woman was a diamond-like resilience.
She never surrendered, nor did her team members.
She resisted in her own way, expressing contempt.
"Relentless?" Gerard said:
"Do you really think the Central Guards Brigade has such capability? This is blind confidence."
"If it were truly blind confidence, why resort to a sneak attack?" Ning Che said with disdain:
"And you still chose to strike when the Flame Dragon Team was away, weakness isn’t the real issue, obliviousness to foolishness is."
Anger surfaced on Gerard’s face.
This insubordination struck a nerve.
"But my goal was achieved, I don’t care about the process."
"Ha..."
Ning Che chuckled coldly, saying nothing more.
The thick contempt made Gerard even more uncomfortable.
Buzz—
The door lock whirred with electricity before Morrice entered, saying:
"Mr. Gerard, it’s almost time."
"Take them all downstairs."
"Yes!"
A group of armed guards came from outside, escorting Ning Che and the others out of the room.
"How’s the situation downstairs?" Gerard asked quietly.
"All the streets are secured, the moment he appears, his movements can be tracked." Morrice said sternly:
"I assure you, there won’t be any issues this time."
Gerard nodded, "How is Lin Jingzhan’s situation over there, any unusual activity?"
"Recently, they’ve rested near the Kandaya Forest, all four captains are present, seems unaware of this matter."