Above Sky Island's sea of clouds, the morning sun broke through the mist, spilling golden light over the plaza of the Golden Bell Observation Platform.
Lucci and his five companions stood straight in the center of the plaza, dressed in the Wind-Listening Guard's standard black combat uniforms. After a night's rest, their dejection and bewilderment had faded, replaced by a soldier's stern discipline. More than twenty years in Cipher Pol No. 9 had carved absolute obedience into their very bones. Now, their allegiance had shifted from the World Government to Hua Country, to Chen Yu.
Holding a letter of appointment, Guo Jia stood before the six and read aloud:
"By decree of His Majesty the Emperor of Hua Country: former Cipher Pol No. 9 captain Rob Lucci, whose loyalty, courage, and exceptional abilities merit commendation, is hereby appointed Deputy Commander of the Wind-Listening Guard, assisting in the management of its global intelligence affairs. Former Cipher Pol No. 9 members Kaku, Jabra, Kalifa, Kumadori, and Fukurou shall join the Wind-Listening Guard Operations Corps as operation team captains, under Deputy Commander Lucci's command. Thus decreed."
"We thank Your Majesty for your boundless grace!"
All six dropped to one knee, their voices ringing with strength, without the slightest hesitation. Lucci accepted the letter with both hands, his fingertips tightening slightly. This document was more than a new identity; it was a new life. The World Government had given him the authority to kill, but never the slightest respect or trust. Chen Yu, however, had reached out when they had nowhere left to turn, giving them a place to belong and his absolute trust, even placing half the Wind-Listening Guard's authority in his hands.
He, Rob Lucci, would repay this recognition with his life.
Smiling, Guo Jia helped the six to their feet, then