Attitude

Deputy Director Chen said with an ingratiating smile, "Commander Li, this matter isn't under my responsibility, so I'm not too clear on the specifics. How about you wait a moment while I ask the colleagues handling this case?"

Li Mingyuan waved a hand. "No need to ask. I'll say it directly. I believe Wang Haidong is innocent. Your Inspection Department can follow whatever procedures you need to follow and investigate whatever you need to investigate, but you can't keep detaining him indefinitely. If you end up finding no solid evidence, release him early. Don't delay his business."

Deputy Director Chen's smile stiffened slightly. "Commander Li, this..."

Li Mingyuan looked at him, a faintly amused glint in his eyes. "Director Chen, I know your Inspection Department has its rules. But rules are dead; people are alive."

"Wang Haidong has some business dealings with the Sky Swallow Battle Corps. If something happens to him, it'll cause some trouble for the corps as well. As the deputy commander, I have to consider the corps's interests."

He paused, then added, "Of course, I won't make things difficult for you. Follow the procedures you should follow and investigate everything thoroughly. But as long as the evidence is insufficient, he must be released. That isn't too much to ask, is it?"

Deputy Director Chen fell silent for several seconds before nodding. "I understand, Commander Li. I'll speak with the colleagues handling the case right away."

Li Mingyuan smiled in satisfaction and rose to his feet. "Then I'll have to trouble you, Director Chen. When you have time another day, come visit Sky Swallow Province. I'll treat you to a drink."

With that, he straightened his clothes and strode out of the reception room.

After seeing Li Mingyuan off, Deputy Director Chen stood there in silence for