Breaking the Barrier

"My name is Zhang Chen, captain of the Thirty-First Squad. This is Yu Ming, a member of our squad. We have come to discuss the Clock Tower barrier."

Zhang Chen introduced the two of them.

"So it is the captain himself. Forgive me for failing to welcome you properly. I am Wenren Chang Wu, captain of the First Squad; this is Vice-Captain Wu Gong, and the rest are our members..."

Chang Wu, who carried a broad-bladed greatsword on his back, courteously introduced his squad members. When Zhang Chen saw Chong Ying, he naturally smiled knowingly. The icy beauty's demeanor, which she had maintained since joining the First Squad, seemed to collapse the instant she met Zhang Chen's gaze, and a blush spread across her round cheeks.

"It seems Captain Zhang Chen and Miss Chong Ying share an unusual relationship. Miss Chong Ying has made immense contributions to our team. With this, it appears the relationship between our two squads can deepen further."

Many members of the First Squad were seeing their captain act so courteous for the first time. They could not help scrutinizing the two "envoys" who had come to visit, yet they could not see anything particularly special about them.

"I had already heard that you two came chiefly to discuss the Four Emperors of the central area joining forces to break the Clock Tower seal. I initiated this matter, and since Captain Zhang Chen is interested, it should be settled very soon."

"When will it begin?" Zhang Chen asked.

"Hmm... How about this? I will send two envoys to the South District and North District. The negotiations should conclude smoothly and quickly—fifteen minutes will be enough. There is no need to rush. Why not rest here for a while, Captain Zhang Chen, and wait for the news