The Helu City settlement hadn't fully fallen asleep at night.
Most of the tents were dark, but faint sounds could still be heard: muffled coughs, children murmuring in their sleep, and adults talking quietly.
Lin Yi slipped out of his tent.
Breaking through in the tent area would disturb others.
He straightened his clothes and headed toward the Old Department Store Building.
Along the way, he came across a squad of armed police officers on night patrol. The squad leader clearly recognized him and immediately stopped, standing at attention and saluting respectfully. "Major Lin, where are you headed?"
"I suddenly had an idea about my cultivation. I was afraid I'd disturb people in the tent, so I'm going to try it on the rooftop," Lin Yi explained.
The soldiers looked understanding, and even a little reverent.
Word of the young major's strength and contributions had already spread through the ranks.
"Understood. Go right ahead!"
The squad leader stepped aside to let him pass.
When Lin Yi reached the entrance to the Old Department Store Building, the sentry didn't try to stop him either. After confirming his identity, he immediately saluted and let him through. "Major Lin!"
"Thanks for your hard work." Lin Yi returned the salute with equal solemnity.
The building was much quieter than it had been during the day. Only the duty room was still lit. He went straight up the stairs to the rooftop.
As he pushed open the heavy fire door, the night breeze rushed in, carrying a faint chill.
At the center of the rooftop stood a simple but sturdy little shelter. Its roof offered some protection from the sun and rain, and inside lay a thick-looking padded mat.
Yesterday, Director Wang Wenhai, who was in charge of coordination, had mentioned in passing that he'd