The leaders on the other end of the video call quickly regained their composure after their initial shock.
The elderly man at their head even smiled appreciatively. "Comrade Chen Lin, meeting you certainly beats hearing about you. Your appearance has saved us quite a bit of trouble."
Chen Lin pulled over a chair and, under everyone's horrified gazes, sat down with his legs planted wide. Facing the screen, he got straight to the point. "I appreciate your goodwill. As your investigation showed, I'm a fairly laid-back person. All I want is to tend my own little patch and live in peace. Whenever I've resorted to violence, it's because I had no other choice."
"We fully respect your wishes." The elderly man nodded, his tone sincere. "The country won't force you to do anything. But some matters concern the nation's future, and we believe we need to discuss them with you face-to-face. This isn't just for the country. It's also so we can provide you with a more peaceful environment."
Looking at the elderly men on the screen, their temples grayed by years of toil for their country, Chen Lin let go of the last trace of wariness in his heart.
After a moment's consideration, he nodded. "All right. You choose the time and place."
"We'd like it to be as soon as possible. If you're available, we'll be waiting for you in Capital City tomorrow. A special flight has already been arranged," the elderly man said immediately, showing remarkable efficiency and sincerity.
"That works." Chen Lin agreed without hesitation.
The video conference ended.
Inside the room, Ye Wenjun and his team members barely dared to breathe as they looked at Chen Lin.
Ye Wenjun swallowed hard, abruptly straightened, and gave Chen Lin a flawlessly executed military salute. His voice carried