An exquisite, lavish octagonal pavilion stood on the narrow cape of Great Peak Bay, offering a sweeping view of the magnificent sea.
At that moment, however, thick, lead-gray clouds blocked the afternoon sun. The distant horizon had blurred, and gusts of sea wind laden with salty, fishy moisture swept in. A storm appeared to be approaching.
A young man dressed in traditional Great Shun robes entered the pavilion. His long hair was tied in a bun secured with a jade hairpin, and the wind kept billowing his clothes. Security personnel stood well behind him, each bearing the Origin Company emblem on their collar insignia.
He watched the sea for a while before a message came through his World Token. "Sir, the communications link is ready. We can only guarantee three minutes of stable transmission."
The young man said, "Connect me."
A moment later, a burst of noise came from his World Token. After a few seconds, it cleared, and a deep voice sounded from within. "Mr. Gao."
The young man said, "Mr. Xiang, I've received definite information. The target has left the Visiting Delegation and is heading for one of the First People's sacred sites. How are your preparations coming along? When will you act?"
Mr. Xiang said, "Mr. Gao, I'm accompanying the boss in negotiations with the Da Shun Delegation on the East Coast. I can't get away right now.
"Besides..."
"Besides what?"
Mr. Xiang said, "The boss seems to have caught wind of something. I don't recommend acting at this point."
The young man's expression tightened. "Are you certain?"
Mr. Xiang said, "It's only a feeling I have."
The young man took a few steps forward, leaving the pavilion to stand at the cliff's edge. He gazed at the surging water below and the waves shattering against the