Chapter 1608
"If they hadn't decisively cut off contact and sacrificed the tail to save themselves," the Mustached Man said slowly, "our operation last night wouldn't have gone so smoothly either."
"A lizard sheds its tail to survive because it can grow another one," Reed said, raising his coffee to his lips. "That means they have something more important to protect. Even losing these Mercenaries and gang members is worth it."
He took a sip of coffee. "Their decision to hunker down means that thing probably no longer needs outside help or support. That isn't good news."
"That's why we're here," Charn said softly.
"No matter what they're plotting, we need to catch them before their plan succeeds," the Mustached Man said quietly.
"We need a breakthrough," Reed said, taking another sip of coffee before turning to He Ao, who was browsing through documents nearby.
Everyone's gaze gathered on He Ao as well.
"This Street Kid may not have even finished high school," the Mustached Man said, glancing at He Ao. "I've seen plenty of little punks like him. Not only can they offer no useful advice, they're slippery, deceitful, and willing to do anything. He can't be relied on. At most, he can serve as bait. For all we know, he might even betray us."
He leaned back in his chair. "Honestly, Reed, this is a meeting between the three of us. Bringing a Street Kid in to listen is inappropriate in itself."
Charn took a sip of coffee beside them but said nothing.
"Loren is actually very capable, and he's attending a private high school nearby," Reed said slowly. He Ao had remained silent, as though he had not heard the conversation at all.
"He dresses exactly like a Street Kid," the Mustached Man said, setting down his