Xiao Ran walked at an unhurried pace, each step steady.
Wu Man followed half a step behind him, lazily puffing on the cigarette that seemed like it would never burn out.
Golden Toad Son still sat cross-legged on the back of the mighty Tiger Demon, looking relaxed, as if he were out enjoying the spring weather and visiting friends. The horsetail whisk rested in the crook of his arm, wisps of light flowing between its silver strands.
The trio's distinctive styles and appearances naturally drew many curious glances.
In particular, when people saw them heading toward the restricted area of the barracks, many eyes flickered with surprise.
Outside the sentry post stood a soldier, straight as a spear, his hawk-like gaze fixed on Xiao Ran and the others as they approached.
He wore a modern, specially designed combat uniform, but carried no firearms. The only things on him were a device resembling a walkie-talkie at his waist and a standard-issue military dagger.
Most striking of all were his eyes: the whites took up nearly seventy percent of their surface, while his black pupils had shrunk to pinpoints. They held an inhuman coldness and indifference, as though he felt no emotion at all, only pure vigilance and scrutiny.
The sentry watched the three approach, his expression impassive and his face devoid of emotion.
Only when they drew near did he step forward and salute them with impeccable form.
"Hello, comrades. Please show me your credentials."
Xiao Ran took out the credential bearing Yang Jun's signature and handed it to the sentry.
The sentry glanced it over and, finding nothing amiss, told Xiao Ran, "Please wait."
With that, he turned and walked aside, pressing the walkie-talkie. "Squad Leader, Squad Leader! Sentry One calling Squad Leader."
"Static... Sentry One, go ahead."
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