After they entered and took their seats, Li Xiaoyue briskly brewed hot tea for the three men.
Gao Yuliang cradled his teacup in both hands, watching the wisps of steam rise before turning a complicated gaze toward Chen Lin.
Before coming, he had received a classified phone call representing the highest authority of the nation.
The voice on the phone had been aged and commanding, but its message consisted of just one sentence.
"Anything concerning Chen Lin takes priority over everything else. In Northlake Province, his word is the highest directive."
Gao Yuliang took a deep breath and spoke first.
"Xiao Lin, we came specifically to say goodbye today. Comrade Changmin and I will be leaving for Wucheng today to officially take up our posts."
"Too many words of thanks would only make us seem like strangers."
Gao Yuliang pointed to his chest. His once-aged face now glowed with health, and his vigor bore no resemblance to that of a retiree brought back into service.
"But in this life, I, Gao Yuliang, owe you both my life and my future."
Beside him, Ji Changmin nodded firmly, overcome with emotion.
"Indeed. I thought I would spend the rest of my life in the Sanatorium, counting the days until death. I never imagined this old tree would sprout new shoots. Xiao Lin, you didn't just cure our illnesses. You gave us a second political life."
Qi Tongwei sat to one side, perched on the edge of his seat, his manner deferential to the utmost.
Deep in his eyes as he looked at Chen Lin lay an almost fanatical admiration.
"Brother Chen, words can't repay such a tremendous favor. In Yicheng-no, anywhere in North Lake-just say the word, and I, Qi Tongwei, will brave blades and fire for you. If I so much