Many things in the world were like a tree longing for stillness while the wind refused to stop.
Some people, though, could always sense the wind before it arrived.
"Simply put, if it's convenient, we'd like to invite you to attend a meeting, Lieutenant Li."
23
The explanation was unusually direct, with no attempt to hide anything.
Among the visitors, besides the two familiar "customer service representatives," was an old man Li Jiye only vaguely knew. Smiling, he explained why they had come.
Old Li recognized him. When he had brought in that Tianhuang Stone, which produced so little spiritual energy, for testing, Professor Yang had been one of the experts who tried to persuade him.
But their visit clearly had nothing to do with that Meteorite Fragment.
"We recently received a request for a visit from abroad. A multinational delegation will soon set out on a tour around the world, and its first stop will be our country."
"Yes, it's what you're thinking. The delegation is led mainly by Users."
"They'll split into several groups for what will, at least officially, be friendly visits. Chengdu is a major city, so it's naturally on their itinerary."
The middle-aged representative winked at Old Li, his words carrying a pointed implication.
"The exchanges and calculations behind all this are probably beyond people like us. But for now, those above us don't seem inclined to turn down the proposal."
"Or rather, they attach great importance to what it represents in plain sight."
With no concern for appearances, he rolled up his sleeve and flexed his arm. His meaning was obvious.
The crude gesture left everyone silent for a moment.
The Users alone represented a form of modern power and national development unlike anything before, one that might—no, inevitably would—change the international order.
The