Kingsman Showdown: The Five Shepherds

May 8, 1970.

At Kai Tak Airport in Hong Kong, the sea breeze, carrying a salty and damp air, swept across the entire coastal airspace.

A light veil of dark clouds hung over the sky, making the low-lying clouds appear hazy and creating a somber and oppressive atmosphere.

The usually bustling and busy civil aviation take-off and landing area was still crowded with people and noisy.

But the scene is quite the opposite in the deepest, most secure military isolation parking area of ​​the airport.

The entire area was completely sealed off and under strict curfew, with no unauthorized personnel allowed to approach even a fraction of a step.

This is British military airspace, with extremely high clearance, and ordinary forces simply cannot enter it.

A deep, heavy engine roar slowly pierced through the clouds as it approached from afar.

A large transport aircraft with neat paint and the Royal Air Force insignia.

Adjusting its flight attitude and lowering its altitude, it landed precisely and steadily on the military-designated isolated runway.

The tires made heavy contact with the ground, producing a dull groan as they slowly slid and decelerated.

Finally, the massive aircraft came to a steady stop on the empty and desolate military tarmac.

The cabin's airtight valves slowly opened, and the heavy alloy hatch was pushed open outwards.

The subtle mechanical sounds of the hydraulic system were exceptionally clear in the silent air.

The metal gangway descended smoothly and steadily connected to the cabin exit and the ground.

Six tall, imposing figures emerged from the cabin in an orderly fashion.

Five men and one woman, the six of them walked steadily and in unison, without the slightest disorder.

Everyone had a cold expression and sharp eyes, surrounded by a chilling aura that suggested they were used to hiding in the shadows.

They didn't linger or observe, nor did they survey their surroundings; their goals were clear and their actions decisive throughout.

He strode down the gangway and headed straight for the military off-road vehicle that was already waiting beside the tarmac.

As the car doors opened and closed, the six people quickly boarded and took their seats, their movements swift and well-trained.

The military vehicle's engine roared to life instantly, its tires pounding the ground as it sped away from Kai Tak Airport.

They sped along, heading at full speed towards the Stonecutters Island military base in the heart of Hong Kong.

The entire process was closed-loop, conducted silently, leaving no extra traces or clues.

Half an hour passed in the blink of an eye.

The study on the top floor of a detached villa halfway up the mountain is quiet, bright, and spotless.

On the large wooden desk sits an old-fashioned landline telephone.

The black body is sturdy and solid, making it the most secure private communication device available today.

At exactly thirty minutes after the transport plane landed, a piercing alarm bell suddenly rang.

Ring ring—

The crisp, urgent ringing of the bell instantly shattered the long-standing silence of the study.

He Yuzhu stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window, his gaze indifferent as he looked down at the bustling Hong Kong street scene below.

His posture was upright yet relaxed, and his aura was calm and composed, showing no sign of emotion.

Hearing the bell, he remained completely calm and composed.

He turned around slowly, reached for the receiver, and calmly awaited the other party's report.

On the other end of the phone came a low, urgent, and solemn male voice.

He spoke extremely fast, every word precise, and every sentence contained top-secret intelligence that had just been verified.

"Well, the target group has arrived safely."

"The Royal Air Force transport plane made a private landing at the Kai Tak military quarantine zone. The entire process was kept secret and not disclosed to the public."

"There were six people in total, five men and one woman, and the leader was a white male in his forties."

"Short gray-brown hair, a hard facial structure, and eyes as sharp as a scalpel, with extremely penetrating power."

"Dressed in plain clothes and disguised as an ordinary person, he actually exudes an imposing aura. He is most likely the core person in charge of the Fifth Division, 'The Shepherd'."

"All six were transported in British military vehicles. The convoy's direction is now clear, with its final destination being the temporary military base on Stonecutters Island!"

The intelligence officer reported all the details in one breath, his tone revealing an undisguised tension.

This group of elites from five locations in the UK is far superior to any local forces in Hong Kong.

They wield imperial authority, act without local constraints, and employ ruthless and unscrupulous methods.

It is a top-tier covert force that truly stirs up the situation in the Far East and strikes fear into people's hearts.

He Yuzhu, sitting at his desk, lightly pinched the receiver with his fingertips, his tone flat and emotionless.

With just three simple words, he calmly and composedly answered the question.

"understood."

Such a formidable enemy has entered the country, and a top adversary has landed in Hong Kong.

Anyone else would have been filled with apprehension, unable to sleep at night, and proceeding with extreme caution.

His calm demeanor only made the intelligence officer on the other end of the phone more and more uncertain.

After a two-second silence, the other party finally couldn't help but ask again with a hint of trepidation.

"Hey, aren't you even a little nervous facing an opponent of this caliber?"

He Yuzhu raised the corners of his lips slightly, revealing a calm and composed smile.

A hint of composure and confidence, born from years of experience and a commanding view of all beings, flashed across his eyes.

He spoke softly, with the confidence and composure of someone who had been through many battles, and slowly asked the question in return.

"What should I be nervous about?"

"Are these civilian intelligence agents comparable to the elite battalions that fought head-on on the battlefield back then?"

A single rhetorical question instantly reveals the essence and makes the difference in quality immediately apparent.

A hardened warrior forged in the blood and fire of battle.

They have never been afraid of these intelligence agents who hide in the shadows and play tricks.

The person on the other end of the phone was speechless for a moment, then sighed heavily, their tone becoming increasingly serious.

"You're right, the enemy forces on the battlefield are indeed more ferocious."

"But this time it's completely different. Their investigative authority is extremely high, and their coverage is extremely broad."

"The final investigation findings are enough to shake up the entire Hong Kong garrison layout and mobilize the garrison forces in the Far East."

"If they seize even the slightest weakness, the consequences will be unimaginable and far-reaching."

He Yuzhu remained calm and composed, having already thoroughly analyzed the advantages and disadvantages and the overall situation in his mind.

He asked the question in a calm and unhurried tone.

"Then let them test the waters."

"I'm asking you about all the files, resumes, and records of correspondence between Chief Inspector Wang and Chief Inspector Yu."

"Have you thoroughly dealt with all traceable, in-depth, and questionable leads?"

The person on the other end of the phone spoke with certainty, without the slightest hesitation.

"All issues have been resolved, with thorough verification at each level, repeated investigations, and a closed-loop containment process."

"Public resumes are spotless, and private records are completely unmarked, leaving no loopholes or incriminating evidence."

"No matter what level of authority or methods the other party uses to dig deep, they cannot find any problems."

He Yuzhu nodded slightly, a knowing glint in his eyes.

His tone remained calm, exuding an air of absolute control.

"That's good."

"If they insist on not giving up and insist on provoking trouble and causing trouble for no reason."

"Then I can make them all go back the way they came, anytime."

Upon hearing this, the person on the other end of the phone immediately tried to dissuade him.

His tone carried a mixture of trust and caution.

"There's no need to be so radical."

"You should know best the capabilities, composure, and counter-surveillance skills of your core personnel."

"They are capable of handling routine investigations; there's no need to directly escalate tensions and create unnecessary conflict."

He Yuzhu chuckled lightly, his tone relaxed and casual.

"Alright."

"Then you should be out in the open and test the mettle and capabilities of these British elites."

Upon hearing this, the person on the other end of the phone was instantly dumbfounded, and could only helplessly mutter a complaint.

"Why do I hear you sound like you're not feeling any pressure at all, but rather rather gloating?"

He Yuzhu spoke calmly, yet every word was clear and to the point.

"I'm not gloating."

"I just see things more clearly than you do; you have no idea how terrifying these people are."

"In the past, the opponents we dealt with were nothing more than local gangs, local inspectors, and ordinary spies."

"But there are five differences; they represent the absolute will of the British national machinery."

"They act without any rules or bottom line, using any means necessary, regardless of the cost or consequences."

"To be honest, even I feel a little tense and uneasy right now."

He Yuzhu, on the other end of the receiver, simply shook his head slightly upon hearing this.

His tone was calm and resolute, carrying the comfort and confidence of someone who had been through it all.

"There's nothing to be afraid of."

"No matter how difficult, oppressive, or hopeless the situation."

"Could it be any more difficult than those years you spent being defeated, captured, and stranded in the enemy camp?"

A single sentence precisely strikes at the deepest wounds and shadows in the other person's heart.

The person on the other end of the phone was speechless for a moment, their tone filled with helplessness and embarrassment.

Why are you bringing up this old story again?

He Yuzhu spoke in a flat tone, without any sarcasm, simply stating the facts objectively.

I'm not reopening old wounds; I'm just telling you a fact.

"You've survived even the most desperate hell, so a mere intelligence gathering is nothing to worry about. Just stay calm."

The other person was silent for a moment, their tone carrying a hint of self-mockery and a sense of relief.

"Okay, I'll stay calm."

"But let me make this clear beforehand: if I am really dismissed and lose my job because of this..."

"You must provide me with a stable job."

Upon hearing this, He Yuzhu responded cheerfully and decisively.

"no problem."

"My Taishan Security Company is always open to you. Are you in?"

The person on the other end of the phone softened instantly, their voice carrying a hint of longing.

"To be honest, if I hadn't joined the police force and pursued a political career back then..."

"I really want to work for your security company."

"Leading troops, training them, and guarding the front line are exactly the same as when I led troops in battle back then."

He Yuzhu couldn't help but chuckle, his tone carrying just the right amount of teasing and banter.

"Then you'd better just stick to your position as superintendent."

"I wouldn't dare take you in."

"I'm afraid that the security personnel you bring out will suffer the same fate as you did back then, losing the war and becoming prisoners of war."

The person on the other end of the phone was not angry at all; on the contrary, they readily admitted it, their tone incredibly sincere.

"Only you would dare to tease me like that."

"But I must be realistic and admit it sincerely."

"You are the most outstanding, fiercest, and most unbeatable top-tier soldier I have ever seen on the battlefield in my entire life."

"Unmatched by anyone, incomparable to anyone else."

He Yuzhu's joking expression vanished, a sharp glint appeared in his eyes, and his aura suddenly became calm.

His tone was firm and powerful, conveying the courage to face any formidable foe head-on.

"In that case..."

"Then this time, we'll have a proper showdown with the British Five."

"I want to see whether their state apparatus is stronger or our methods are tougher."

The person on the other end of the phone spoke with a serious tone, instantly entering a state of readiness.

"good!"

"I immediately set about setting up defenses, sorting out clues, plugging loopholes, and preparing for deployment."

"You must also make comprehensive preparations on your side to deal with any emergencies at any time."

"no problem."

He Yuzhu simply ended the conversation and slowly put down the receiver.

A top-level covert war sweeping across Hong Kong, a battle of power and intrigue intertwined with both overt and covert tactics.

Thus, the event officially began.

……

Stonecutters Island was a key secret outpost for the British military in Hong Kong.

The entire area is surrounded by high walls, densely populated with sentry posts, and heavily guarded, with security at the highest level.

The interior architecture is simple and rugged, with a strong military style, exuding a solemn and rigorous atmosphere.

Inside a spacious and brightly lit core operations office, the lights were always on, as bright as day.

In the very center of the wall hangs a huge topological map of the power relationships across Hong Kong.

The dense lines, text, and photographs intertwine to form a vast intelligence network.

It covers all capital forces, official structures, business giants, and underground forces in Hong Kong.

At this moment, a tall, aloof white man appeared.

He stood alone in front of the relationship diagram, his gaze deep and intently scrutinizing it.

He was the head of the Fifth Division's Far East operation, codenamed "Shepherd".

Colin Sterling.

In his early forties, his short, grayish-brown hair was neatly styled.

His facial features are cold and sharp, his eyebrows and eyes are long and deep, and his gaze is as sharp as a scalpel.

Simply by standing still, one can exude an oppressive aura of someone who has long held a high position and controls life and death.

He was dressed in simple casual clothes, without any formal military uniform.

However, the oppressive aura emanating from the top intelligence commander remained undiminished.

He stood ramrod straight, his hands behind his back, and remained silent.

The air around was thick and oppressive, and the atmosphere in the entire office was extremely tense.

Behind him stood five elite agents from the Five Departments, their expressions stern and their posture impeccable.

They stood in neat rows on both sides, each with a solemn expression and focused gaze.

He held a thick stack of top-secret files that had been urgently compiled overnight and retrieved from other regions.

In an orderly and well-organized manner, with clear division of labor, they reported the target intelligence that had just been compiled one by one.

Every report has undergone rigorous verification, comparison with multiple parties, and precise screening.

Every word is meticulous and every sentence is true, without the slightest exaggeration or omission.

The lead white male agent spoke first, his voice low and standard, devoid of any emotional fluctuation.

"Target: He Fei, publicly known as 'Water Seller'."

"Core background: Retired elite soldiers from the mainland, belonging to the top reconnaissance unit."

"I entered Hong Kong about five years ago, starting from the bottom, working as a dockworker."

"With its exceptional personal abilities, extraordinary courage, and keen insight, it has risen rapidly in just a few years."

"Currently, it controls several top-tier physical industries in Hong Kong, with a vast business empire and a solid foundation."

"Core industries include: Yellow River Industry, which mainly engages in high-end real estate, urban infrastructure, and old city renovation."

"Taishan Security Company is the largest, best-equipped, and most professionally trained private security group in Hong Kong."

"The Yellow River Automobile Manufacturing Plant and the Yellow River Steel Processing Plant control the core lifeline of Hong Kong's local heavy industry."

"Indirectly wholly owns Qinquan Beverage Group, monopolizing most of Hong Kong's daily beverage market."

"Analysis of the person's social relationships: The direct line of the He family, whose members are mostly homebodies or students, with no real power involved."

"Four core trusted aides, each fully in charge of major industries, are loyal and highly capable."

"Xu Damao is in full charge of all operations, marketing, and public relations affairs of Qinquan Beverage Group."

"Ah Lang, the highest-ranking executive manager of Yellow River Industrial, is responsible for the implementation of all real estate projects and the overall coordination of infrastructure construction."

"Gu Yuanheng is the head of the Yellow River Automobile Manufacturing Plant, in charge of core production and technology management."

"Shi Bin is the highest-ranking executive of Taishan Security Company, in charge of all security personnel, training systems, and field deployments."

"Official connections: a very close personal relationship with West Kowloon Chief Superintendent Orion Trench."

"The two sides appear to have reached a deep-rooted strategic partnership, with mutual support and information sharing."

The agent delivered a lengthy and well-organized presentation of the basic background information.

Another skilled agent with an Asian appearance immediately followed up with further in-depth verification information.

His speech was extremely steady, rich in detail, and covered all publicly available traces.

"The target, He Fei, has an ordinary public resume, but his background is actually vague and full of suspicious points."

"Publicly identified as an ordinary immigrant from mainland China, who initially worked in street food and dockside odd jobs."

"No capital accumulation, no family background, and no benefactors to support me."

"Yet, in just five years, it has expanded into multiple sectors including catering, real estate, heavy industry, security, and people's livelihood."

"The speed of its rise is unbelievable and completely inconsistent with the normal business development logic of Hong Kong."

"Official social media activity check: He had close contact with West Kowloon Chief Superintendent Orion and Chief Inspector Wong Tsui-ping of the Organized Crime and Triad Bureau."

"They interact frequently in public and have numerous private contacts, indicating a relationship far deeper than that of ordinary government and business entities."

Immediately afterwards, a third agent stepped forward, holding a special case file, and gave a special report on the major unsolved case.

"Special investigation report on the Wharf Holdings' record-breaking theft case: all details have been verified."

"The crime scene was thoroughly investigated, repeatedly reviewed, and evidence was collected from multiple perspectives, but the results were extremely bizarre."

"The entire Wharf warehouse area showed no signs of physical forced entry, lock picking, or broken windows."

"The security system operated normally throughout the entire process, with no hacking, short circuits, or intrusion records."

"The list of stolen valuables has been checked against the warehouse general ledger and the customs declaration list one by one."

"The total value of the stolen goods exceeded US$50 million, making it a super-large-scale theft case."

"But there is a major, fatal flaw at the scene: we cannot determine whether these supplies have actually been stored."

"The warehouse floor only bears the marks of long-term stacking of containers and heavy cargo boxes."

"No trace of any vehicle loading, unloading, handling, or movement was left throughout the entire process."

"All intersections, checkpoints, surveillance cameras, and patrol records around Wharf Holdings have been verified."

"In the 24 hours before and after the incident, no heavy freight vehicles left the area, and no unusual personnel moved goods."

"The entire batch of exorbitantly priced supplies vanished without a trace, as if evaporated into thin air."

As soon as he finished speaking, the atmosphere in the office became increasingly oppressive and eerie.

Everyone knew perfectly well that this case completely defied common sense in physics and the logic of criminal investigation.

This is something that cannot be accomplished by ordinary commercial theft, gang crime, or group theft.

Next, the fourth agent reported on another deadly unsolved case.

The search and investigation into the crash of Keswick's private jet, the Silver Wing, continues.

"A comprehensive, grid-like search will be conducted across the entire crash site, surrounding airspace, and coastal areas."

"Currently, no key fuselage debris has been found, and no core signals from the aircraft's black box have been captured."

"The last flight communication records and the entire radar trajectory retained by the Air Traffic Control Bureau have been fully analyzed."

"Data analysis results show that several unexplained systemic mechanical failures occurred shortly before the plane crashed."

"The malfunction broke out rapidly, comprehensively, and fatally, without any warning or precursors."

"After extensive analysis, the technical team has preliminarily ruled out the possibility of it being shot down by anti-aircraft weapons, external force, or deliberate demolition."

The last agent in charge of business public opinion gave a concluding report on the changes in the capital landscape.

"The internal situation of Jardine Matheson Group continues to deteriorate, with turmoil at the senior management level and low morale."

"After the death of the original leader, Keswick, the group's interim head, Smith, forcibly took over to maintain stability."

"Despite their best efforts to consolidate power and stabilize the situation, the results have been minimal."

"Several core investors, both domestic and international, have successively announced their withdrawal of investment, termination of cooperation, and freezing of projects."

"The group's cash flow is under pressure, projects are stalled, and stock prices are fluctuating, significantly shaking its foundation."

"The Keswick family headquarters in London has dispatched a core delegation to Hong Kong."

"We expect to arrive in Hong Kong tomorrow to take over all the remaining mess and disputes at Jardine Matheson."

After the five people finished their reports, their presentations were clear, logical, and detailed.

The office fell into a long, deathly silence.

All eyes turned to Colin Sterling, who was standing in front of the relationship diagram.

We await the final judgment and next instructions from this top commander.

Colin didn't utter a single word or show any emotion throughout.

He simply lowered his head slightly, his long, slender, and cold fingertips repeatedly stroking the two characters "He Fei" on the file.

In his deep, gray-brown pupils, the light flickered uncertainly, revealing turbulent undercurrents and simmering schemes.

After a long while, he slowly spoke, his deep, magnetic voice carrying a strong penetrating power.

Every word is precise, hitting the core truth behind all appearances.

"All of what you've found are superficial and useless phenomena."

In short, it completely negated everyone's massive research findings.

The five elite agents remained composed, standing at attention and awaiting further instructions.

Colin raised his eyes, his gaze sharp as a knife, and slowly swept over the dense intelligence network on the wall.

His tone was calm and piercing, dissecting layer by layer, cutting through all the fog and disguise.

"The method used in the Wharf theft was too clean, too perfect."

"So clean that it leaves no trace and no flaw, it's something that couldn't be accomplished by conventional human methods."

"The timing of the Keswick plane crash was too coincidental and too bizarre."

"It happened at the very point when Jardine Matheson's expansion was at its peak, the Hong Kong capital game was at its most intense, and the conflicts were at their most acute."

"The coincidences are outrageous, as if it were a perfectly scripted drama."

"These two mega-cases shook the Far East and shook the foundations of British capital."

"All clues, all doubts, all contradictions, all inexplicable oddities."

"The ultimate source, the sole center, has always been just one person."

"He Fei".

He emphasized the last two words heavily, with an unwavering certainty.

A young agent frowned and couldn't help but voice his doubts.

His tone carried the rigor and bewilderment of a professional criminal investigator.

"Boss, we have exhausted all means, all authority, and all resources to investigate."

"We obtained all of the target's communication records, bank statements, spending patterns, and travel history."

"In conjunction with MI6, we conducted cross-verification with all our undercover informants and underground intelligence networks in Hong Kong."

"The final results were all consistent: there was not a single piece of direct evidence that could link He Fei to the two major cases."

"His entire trajectory is a perfect closed loop, all his actions are reasonable and compliant, and there are no abnormalities or flaws."

"Even our field agents tried to get within a three-kilometer perimeter of his private villa."

"They were immediately detected, locked onto, and secretly driven away by the other party's security team."

"The other side's security counter-surveillance, counter-infiltration, and counter-tracking awareness far exceeds the top level in Hong Kong."

Colin's lips slowly curled into a cold, sinister, and all-knowing smirk.

His gaze grew increasingly deep and terrifying, and his tone carried an absolute certainty that penetrated to the core of one's being.

"The lack of evidence and the absence of any flaws are themselves the biggest and most fatal point of suspicion."

"An ordinary immigrant who started from scratch and worked his way up from the bottom."

"In just five years, it has shaken the century-old foundation of Jardine Matheson in the Far East and stirred up the top-level structure of Hong Kong."

"How could it really be as ordinary, harmless, and simple as it appears on the surface?"

There is no such thing as perfect innocence or true purity in this world.

"It's not that it's without flaws, but rather that it possesses absolute power and has personally eliminated all flaws."

As soon as he finished speaking, he turned around abruptly, his sharp gaze sweeping over all his elite team members.

With his aura fully unleashed, the commander's imposing presence was palpable, his words resounding and leaving no room for doubt.

"From now on, completely abandon all conventional, inefficient, and superficial investigation methods."

"Internal business disputes, capital infighting, and sordid interests within Jardine Matheson."

"Keswick's personal grudges, business enemies, and capital games during his lifetime."

"None of these are the focus of our operation. Set them aside and ignore them."

"The only things we need to delve into, crack, and expose are these three 'impossibilities.'"

"First, how did Wharf Holdings' $50 million worth of goods vanish into thin air?"

"Secondly, why did the 'Silver Wing' passenger plane experience a bizarre mechanical malfunction that baffled all passengers and crew?"

"Third, He Fei rapidly accumulated massive wealth, built a top-level network of connections, and gained control of multiple parties with real power."

"What kind of unknown, top-level force is supporting this leapfrog development?"

The five agents responded in unison, their attitude respectful and their execution highly efficient.

"Understood! I will follow the boss's orders!"

Colin's eyes grew increasingly cold and stern as he issued the ultimate command for 24/7 surveillance.

"All personnel in position, 24/7 watch on target He Fei!"

"Comprehensive, no-blind-spot, all-encompassing tracking, monitoring, surveillance, and evidence collection!"

"Use all our legal, semi-legal, and implicit permissions and resources in Hong Kong!"

"I want to know everything about him, every day, every hour, every minute."

"Who did you meet, what did you say, what did you discuss, and what decisions did you make?"

"Even the number of cups of water you drank, the number of bowls of rice you ate, and the number of steps you took—everything was recorded!"

"Even the slightest anomaly must be reported and investigated immediately!"

Upon hearing this, everyone's expressions turned solemn, and they all accepted the order in unison.

"Understood! Execute immediately!"

Colin slightly raised his hand and issued a second monitoring instruction, expanding the surveillance area.

"besides."

"West Kowloon Chief Superintendent Orion Trench and O-Division Chief Inspector Wong Tsui-ping."

Both individuals have been placed on the highest priority monitoring list!

"The depth of their connection with He Fei, the frequency of their interactions, and the extent of their vested interests far exceed the limits."

"This kind of deep friendship that transcends identity, level, and system is itself extremely irregular and abnormal."

"Monitor their every move and investigate all hidden connections!"

"yes!"

Once the order was given, the top-level intelligence and surveillance network of the five departments was instantly deployed in full force.

An invisible giant net silently and densely enveloped He Fei.

That evening, outside the detached villa on the hillside where He Yuzhu was located.

Several ordinary cars with unremarkable appearances, blending seamlessly into the traffic flow of the street, quietly pulled up.

The people inside the car were dressed casually and acted relaxed, appearing to be passersby, tourists, or leisurely citizens.

In reality, they all had sharp eyes and were highly focused, remaining in disguise and lurking throughout the entire process.

Regardless of when He Yuzhu's convoy sets off or when it returns.

They always manage to keep up with the pace precisely, maintaining a safe surveillance distance that is neither too close nor too far.

Without revealing any flaws, without being detected, following and recording the entire process.

At the same time, all office telephone lines in the Yellow River Industrial Headquarters Building were also affected.

Subtle electrical noises began to appear frequently, barely perceptible and extremely difficult to detect.

This is a unique characteristic of top-tier professional monitoring equipment that intervenes in the circuit and intercepts signals.

The monitoring covers all landlines, internal lines, and transfer lines, leaving no area unmonitored.

Not only the headquarters building, but all core business sectors were simultaneously penetrated.

Ah Lang's temporary office landline at the Kowloon Tong construction site, and all office lines at the Yellow River Automobile Factory.

All communication devices at the headquarters of Qinquan Beverage Group were secretly monitored.

In addition, unfamiliar faces from all walks of life have quietly entered various industrial venues.

Some people posed as frontline reporters from financial newspapers, pretending to conduct on-site interviews and investigations.

Some people disguised themselves as job seekers and sneaked into factories, construction sites, and office buildings to gather information.

Everyone shared the same goal and had a clear objective: to uncover the internal information of He Fei Group.

The field security team members of Taishan Security Company are highly trained and have a level of vigilance far exceeding that of ordinary people.

They immediately and astutely detected the unusual fluctuations within the entire area of ​​influence.

Subtle listening noises, unfamiliar spying gazes, deliberate disguises and lurking.

All unusual signs were accurately detected by experienced security personnel.

Shi Bin, the head of security at Mount Tai, immediately gathered all unusual intelligence.

He quickly summarized, sorted out, and analyzed the information, and immediately went to the villa to report in person.

Inside the study, Shi Bin stood ramrod straight, his expression solemn, and his tone extremely serious.

He gave a low and solemn report to He Yuzhu, who stood calmly by the window.

"Boss, we're being watched."

"The personnel involved in this surveillance, infiltration, and wiretapping are all top-tier professionals."

"Their operational methods are sophisticated, their deployment is professional, their camouflage skills are superb, and their counter-surveillance capabilities are extremely strong."

"This is completely unlike the way local Hong Kong police, ordinary inspectors, or gang spies operate."

"Currently, all of our office phone lines show signs of being tapped."

"Unfamiliar people disguised as spying have appeared in all major factories, construction sites, and headquarters."

Shi Bin frowned, a strong sense of crisis rising in his heart.

His tone carried a hint of suppressed tension and unease.

"Now all communications are insecure, and all public areas are subject to spying."

"The feeling of being completely locked on and constantly watched is just too oppressive."

"I feel terrible right now, like prey that has been precisely targeted by its natural enemy and has nowhere to escape."

He Yuzhu stood quietly in front of the floor-to-ceiling window, his gaze lingering on the gray sedan slowly passing by below.

His eyes were calm and undisturbed, without the slightest panic, fear, or anxiety.

Faced with the comprehensive encirclement and meticulous control of five top-tier forces.

He remained as steady as a mountain, calm and composed, his aura completely unwavering.

After a long silence, he finally spoke, his tone calm and composed, conveying a sense of complete understanding of the situation.

"So now you know where your shortcomings lie?"

"The other side is the top elite of the British Fifth Division, a national-level professional intelligence team."

"In the past, you've only dealt with local weaklings, and the gap between you and them is enormous."

"Being targeted and suppressed from all sides this time may not necessarily be a bad thing for you."

"This is a rare and excellent opportunity for you to learn, hone your skills, refine your abilities, and break through your limits."

Shi Bin was slightly taken aback, then bowed his head and humbly accepted the instruction.

"Understood."

He Yuzhu spoke slowly, methodically and progressively issuing a complete set of response instructions.

His tone was calm and confident, and every instruction he gave precisely matched the enemy's deployment methods.

"There's no need to deliberately drive them away, no need to deliberately confront them, and no need to deliberately break off relations."

"Everyone should maintain normal work, normal life, normal operations, and normal pace."

"Simply focus on comprehensive internal defense, blocking of leads, and vulnerability investigation."

"Immediately mobilize the 'Shadow' covert squad, with all members rotating in and out to conduct reverse surveillance."

"We conducted a thorough investigation of the entire process, including the composition of all personnel on the other side, their shift change patterns, control points, and monitoring frequencies."

"I don't need you to completely hide and not alert the other side."

"All I ask is that you minimize your presence and downplay any unusual occurrences."

"Make all reverse reconnaissance and reverse surveillance appear natural and effortless."

"Let the other party think that we are still ignorant, unaware, and passively being watched."

Shi Bin's eyes sharpened, and he instantly understood the boss's deeper scheme.

This is a top-level game of strategy: feigning weakness to lure the enemy, and waiting for the opponent to expose their weaknesses.

He immediately accepted the order in a deep voice.

"Yes! I will immediately arrange for the Shadow Squad to carry out the reverse surveillance!"

He Yuzhu continued to supplement key risk control instructions, completely sealing off channels for intelligence leakage.

"Furthermore, immediately notify all core management personnel."

"All recent work coordination, business discussions, confidential communications, and decision-making discussions."

"All telephone communication, remote coordination, and text messaging must be abandoned."

"All important matters are discussed, finalized, and implemented in person in a closed-loop manner."

"Eliminate all possibilities of remote leakage, eavesdropping, interception, and tracing of clues."

"Understood! I will immediately notify everyone to strictly implement this!"

Shi Bin solemnly agreed, turned around and quickly left to focus on setting up the defense.

From then on, five seemingly airtight and comprehensive surveillance networks were established.

From the moment it landed, He Yuzhu had completely seen through it and accurately cracked it.

In the days that followed, even with the massive surveillance network of top intelligence agencies hanging overhead, [the situation remained unchanged].

He Yuzhu's daily work and life rhythm remained completely undisturbed.

Arrive at the Yellow River Industry headquarters on time every day and take charge of the group's affairs from the top-floor office.

In his spare time, he personally went to the Kowloon Tong renovation site to inspect the construction progress.

They conducted spot checks on project quality, verified construction plans, and reassured the construction team.

I returned to the hillside villa on time in the evening to spend time with my family and rest.

Every word and action is frank, natural, calm, and unassuming.

He is a top-tier Chinese businessman who is deeply involved in industry, diligent, pragmatic, and law-abiding.

There was not a trace of guilt, panic, abnormality, or flaw in his actions.

His extraordinary and irrational composure was remarkable.

Instead, it made the five detectives who were monitoring the whole process feel increasingly fearful and uneasy.

A field agent who had been staking out the area for several days and meticulously documenting the entire process.

Holding the complete monitoring logs, itinerary records, and dynamic reports from the past few days.

He personally returned to the Stonecutters Island post and solemnly reported to Colin.

His tone was full of confusion, bewilderment, and a hint of apprehension.

"Boss, He Fei's condition is really too abnormal."

"We maintain 24/7 surveillance, monitoring, tracking, and in-depth investigation across the entire area."

"I have almost completely figured out his daily schedule and all his social activities."

"Given his vigilance, professionalism, and the keen insight gained from his humble background."

"It's absolutely impossible for them not to notice our comprehensive surveillance and infiltration."

"But he was excessively calm and composed from beginning to end."

"There was no avoidance, no abnormality, no panic."

"They completely ignore our existence and continue as usual, step by step."

Colin stared at the photo on the table showing He Fei and Gu Yuanheng chatting and laughing in the car factory workshop.

His brows furrowed slightly, a calculating glint in his eyes, as he slowly revealed the truth.

"He wasn't unaware; he was waiting."

"He has been patiently lying low, quietly observing, and silently confronting the situation."

"Either they are waiting for us to continue our operations and probes, so that they will deliberately expose their fatal flaws."

"Either, they are waiting for the most opportune, safest, and perfect opportunity to turn the tide."

The young detective remained puzzled and pressed for answers with a look of confusion on his face.

"Boss, we operated professionally, with standardized controls and seamless infiltration throughout the entire process."

"By carefully avoiding loopholes and proceeding cautiously step by step, what weaknesses could we possibly reveal?"

Colin raised his eyes, glanced at his subordinates, and spoke with a hint of helplessness and seriousness in his voice.

Deep within his eyes lay a profound understanding and apprehension of his former adversary.

"You have this kind of absolute confidence, this self-perception that you are invincible."

"In the eyes of a top veteran like He Fei, who crawled out of a real mountain of corpses and a sea of ​​blood."

"It is the biggest, most fatal, and most easily exploited weakness."

"You have never experienced the extremely brutal and bloody battle that took place on the peninsula."

"You simply cannot comprehend how terrifying the insight, foresight, and strategic abilities of truly top-tier elites are."

Upon hearing this, the young detective instantly became respectful and dared not show the slightest contempt.

Colin paused for a moment, then slowly revealed a long-buried secret from the past.

"Orion Trench, you should know him, he's the West Kowloon Chief Superintendent."

"He used to be my direct subordinate, and he followed me in the battles on the Korean Peninsula."

"After the defeat in that battle, he was unfortunately captured and only managed to escape to Hong Kong after several transfers."

"And I, due to the defeat in battle and the collapse of the war, voluntarily left the military system after the war."

"He was then recruited by headquarters and joined the Fifth Division, where he worked in intelligence warfare for many years."

"This is the second time in my career that I have traveled to the Far East to carry out a top-secret mission."

The detective immediately became interested and asked in a low voice.

"Boss, when was your first time in Hong Kong? What mission were you on?"

Colin's gaze was distant, a dark and ambiguous look flashing across his eyes.

He spoke in a low voice, slowly uttering five words.

"The mysterious disappearance of the 'Big Cigar' in 1963."

This short sentence carries the eeriness and weight of a long-standing cold case.

All the agents present instantly tensed up and silently memorized the secret files.

No one dared to ask another question.

Everyone had a vague sense of it.

The old case from 1963, the new case from Wharf Holdings, and the Keswick plane crash.

All these bizarre events spanning seven years are subtly connected to form a hidden thread.

The sole core of this hidden thread points entirely to He Fei.

……

The stalemate, a silent standoff between the overt and covert forces, lasted for several days.

Just as the five locations were secretly deploying all their resources, continuously digging deeper, and waiting for a breakthrough.

After days of silence and being bombarded by public opinion, Jardine Matheson has finally launched a formal counterattack.

A core delegation from the Keswick family of London arrived in Hong Kong to take over all affairs.

This group of veteran capitalists are well-versed in the intricacies of capital games, media manipulation, and commercial suppression.

They knew that open armed confrontation and underground intelligence warfare were too risky and too costly.

The slightest misstep could completely ignite public opinion and shake the foundations of Britain in Hong Kong.

Therefore, they abandoned brutal violence and underhanded tactics.

They used their two most effective, safest, and most unbeatable killer moves.

Public opinion smear campaign and commercial strangulation.

Overnight, several mainstream newspapers in Hong Kong, backed by British capital and controlled by the British government, were shut down.

Leading media outlets such as the Hong Kong Commercial Daily and the South China Morning Post acted in unison and published their reports simultaneously.

A deluge of negative news swept through Hong Kong's public discourse like a tidal wave.

Front-page headlines, in-depth reports, exclusive scoops, and anonymous insider information are layered upon each other.

They launched a comprehensive, multi-faceted, and thorough smear campaign against the entire Yellow River Industry Group.

A series of reports, with sharp wording, sensational headlines, and highly inflammatory content.

It instantly sparked heated discussions throughout the city and stirred up a storm in Hong Kong's business community.

[Exclusive Breaking News: Huanghe Industrial's Kowloon Tong Old Town Redevelopment Project Suspected of Large-Scale Illegal Land Occupation! The Lands Department has officially launched an investigation, and the project may be completely halted!]

[In-depth industry investigation: Huanghe Automobile Manufacturing Plant's core technologies for all models are suspected of being entirely stolen from top European automakers! A massive patent lawsuit is about to be formally initiated, and the company may face astronomical compensation and a complete production halt!]

[An anonymous source revealed: Huanghe Industrial's cash flow is on the verge of collapse! Several partner banks have urgently tightened credit and suspended lending! The Jiulongtang multi-billion yuan redevelopment project is highly likely to be completely abandoned and halted!]

One after another, major negative news stories flooded social media, dominated headlines, and spread throughout the city.

Countless onlookers, industry peers, and business investors watched and discussed the situation.

Rumors and gossip spread like wildfire across the entire Yellow River Industry Group.

The propaganda campaign was extremely fierce, wide-ranging, and fast-paced.

But this seemingly massive and aggressive media campaign has been a devastating blow.

The final result, however, surprised all the British traders.

It could even be said that it is completely ineffective and has no lethality.

The reason is extremely simple, yet extremely fatal.

Since its establishment, Huanghe Industrial has operated entirely as a physical entity, with full funding and self-sufficiency.

It has never gone public to raise funds, never raised money from the stock market, and has never relied on bank loans to survive.

The company has abundant and stable cash flow and no external debt pressure.

The rumors about "broken funding chains, banks withdrawing loans, and projects becoming unfinished" are false.

It is completely baseless, fabricated, and false information that cannot withstand any verification.

It cannot shake the foundation of the company, nor can it affect shareholders or shake market confidence.

The only entity that was slightly affected by the public opinion was Qinquan Beverage Group, which it indirectly controlled.

Qinquan Beverage is a listed company, and its stock price is affected by public opinion fluctuations.

Fortunately, the company is profitable year after year, has an excellent market reputation, and a large user base.

It has extremely abundant cash flow, a steady operating pace, and a stable expansion strategy.

Even when faced with short-term negative public opinion, they continued to open stores, expand, and seize market share.

The stock price fluctuated only slightly before quickly stabilizing and rebounding on its own.

It did not cause any substantial loss or impact.

As for the major accusations of "technology theft and patent theft" against Huanghe Automobile Factory.

It was swiftly, thoroughly, and ruthlessly crushed the moment it was exposed.

Gu Yuanheng, the head of the Yellow River Automobile Factory, was decisive and efficient in his actions.

At the very first moment the negative news broke, a top-notch legal and technical team was immediately assembled.

It comes with a complete set of officially certified patent certificates that have absolute legal effect.

And a core technology R&D log that is refined year by year, archived layer by layer, and is complete and coherent.

They led a team directly to the headquarters of the newspaper that published the false report, confronted them, and collected evidence on the spot.

Under the personal witness of the newspaper's editor-in-chief, reporters, and all staff.

Patent information, R&D process, and technology traceability records are disclosed one by one.

The irrefutable evidence and the perfect closed loop completely shattered all the smears and rumors.

They practically shoved the patent certificate right in the face of the newspaper's editor-in-chief.

The evidence is conclusive, the arguments are sound, and there is no room for argument.

Meanwhile, rumors circulated online that "the Lands Administration has intervened, the project is in violation of regulations, and construction has been ordered to stop."

They were completely exposed and ruthlessly humiliated on the spot.

The Kowloon Tong redevelopment site is bustling with activity, construction is ongoing, and progress is steadily advancing.

The machines roared, vehicles flowed in and out, all workers were on duty, and the project was running smoothly.

No government department came to investigate, no work stoppage notice was issued, and no penalty documents were issued.

All the media reporters who went to stake out the place, ready to capture negative material, were disappointed.

Everyone looked bewildered and confused.

I completely fail to understand this meticulously planned and massive propaganda offensive by British capital.

Why was it so vulnerable, so easily defeated, and so disastrous from start to finish?

In order to completely quell public opinion and directly refute the smear campaign, A Lang voluntarily accepted a media interview.

He was open, composed, and neither arrogant nor humble.

Not only did they respond directly to all the false rumors, but they also generously invited all media reporters.

All staff members visited the Kowloon Tong renovation site for on-site inspection, evidence collection, and verification.

He gave a detailed presentation to the public on the project's overall planning, its value to people's livelihoods, and the significance of urban redevelopment.

Sincere attitude, broad perspective, reasonable and well-founded, open and selfless.

From that point on, public opinion in Hong Kong instantly split into two camps.

Despite their British backing, the media outlets remain relentless, racking their brains to find new angles to smear Yellow River Industry.

All media outlets backed by local Chinese capital and concerned about the development of Chinese businesses are doing their utmost to help clarify rumors, restore the truth, and create positive momentum.

The public opinion tug-of-war is intensifying and escalating.

In the end, the focus of public opinion completely shifted away from the original business confrontation.

This directly evolved into a power struggle between established British capital in Hong Kong and emerging local Chinese capital.

Looking at the public opinion battlefield that continues to veer off course and has no offensive power.

He Yuzhu calmly oversaw the operation from behind the scenes, meticulously planning, precisely wrapping up, and thoroughly clearing the field.

He personally issued the instructions and arranged for Gu Yuanheng to complete the entire set of standard procedures.

All patent certificates, technology research and development ledgers, iteration records, and verification reports of the Yellow River Automobile Plant.

The entire system was organized, bound into volumes, and classified for archiving.

Subsequently, we connected with neutral and authoritative media in Hong Kong to release and fully disclose the information online.

At the same time, we have invited senior professors from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Hong Kong University and industry technical experts.

An open and impartial third-party expert appraisal panel will be formed to conduct public verification and certification.

The appraisal report is issued with official authority, professional perspective, and neutral third-party status.

With irrefutable and irrefutable facts, we will completely refute all the smears and rumors about "technology theft".

To thoroughly, comprehensively, and permanently eliminate the negative influence of public opinion.

Inside his office, Gu Yuanheng watched as the entire internet was clearing up the whitewash and public opinion was recovering.

I couldn't help but feel deeply moved, filled with admiration and gratitude.

He sincerely admired He Yuzhu, who sat calmly and composed in the main seat.

"Boss, you are truly farsighted, visionary, and have a forward-thinking strategy!"

"If you hadn't planned ahead, registered all patents in advance, and solidified all technological intellectual property rights..."

"This time we're absolutely doomed!"

"If the patent dispute is confirmed, it will not only lead to a complete factory shutdown and huge fines."

"All vehicles that have already been sold must be recalled and compensated."

"The consequences of chain reactions, brand collapse, and market crash are incalculable!"

He Yuzhu spoke calmly and steadily, revealing a long-term vision and strategic thinking.

"This public opinion crisis, though seemingly dangerous, is actually a wake-up call for all of us."

"In the battles of the marketplace, the clash of capital, and the struggle for power, there is never any room for sentimentality."

"Any core technology, core qualification, or core intellectual property right must be firmly held in our own hands."

"To achieve self-control, verifiability, legal basis, and evidentiary basis."

"Only then can we avoid being manipulated, hindered, or held hostage by others."

"Once a critical lifeline is controlled by others, no matter how large the enterprise is, it can collapse at any time."

Gu Yuanheng bowed solemnly, remembering the gesture.

"Your subordinate will keep your teachings in mind!"

"Going forward, I will assign a dedicated person to be in charge of all technology research and development, qualification processing, and intellectual property registration."

"Plan ahead, solidify strategies early, and close the loop early to eliminate all risks and loopholes!"

He Yuzhu nodded slightly and casually arranged the follow-up coordination work.

"The same approach will be taken with Qinquan Beverages, with unified standards and simultaneous investigations."

"We conducted a thorough self-inspection and rectification of all qualifications, intellectual property rights, trademarks, patents, and food safety certifications."

"Patch all risks in advance and fix all vulnerabilities in advance."

"Please pass on this message to Xu Damao; I don't need to elaborate further."

"Understood! I'll contact Damao immediately to implement the full set of risk control measures!"

At the same time, Ah Long easily refuted the rumors of "illegal land occupation" surrounding the Kowloon Tong project.

He publicly displayed a document that had been archived long ago, officially stamped, and was legally valid.

The Lands and Public Works Department issued an early "Letter of Intent for Urban Renewal in the Kowloon Tong Area".

The documents are authentic and valid, the official seals are clear, the procedures are compliant, and the documents are legal and well-founded.

This will directly and thoroughly shatter all rumors about violations, illegal construction, and illegal land occupation at their source.

Not only did he try to prove his innocence, Ah Lang also feigned grievance and spoke frankly in front of the camera.

His sincere and well-timed tone won the sympathy and goodwill of the entire city.

"Our team is deeply involved in Hong Kong's infrastructure development and is genuinely committed to urban renewal and improving people's lives."

"We have devoted a great deal of financial, human, and material resources to creating this project that benefits the people."

"My only goal is to help renovate and upgrade the Kowloon Tong area and improve the living environment for residents."

"I really don't understand why there are always people who deliberately smear and maliciously spread rumors, and who can't stand to see local companies doing well."

A heartfelt speech, coupled with irrefutable official documents.

It instantly reversed public opinion, won over the public, and elevated the company's status.

Jardine Matheson Group's meticulously planned and resource-intensive media smear campaign.

In the end, it did not harm Yellow River Industry in the slightest.

This has instead completely exposed the narrow-mindedness, clumsy methods, and malicious suppression of local enterprises by British capital.

This caused his reputation, prestige, and public support to completely collapse and plummet.

It can be said that they tried to steal a chicken but lost the rice instead, and shot themselves in the foot.

In the open battle of public opinion, Jardine Matheson suffered a complete defeat and collapsed entirely.

But the ultimate contest that truly determines victory or defeat, the overall situation, and life or death.

Still hidden in the shadows, the fierce competition continues.

The atmosphere at the five temporary command posts on Stonecutters Island was oppressive, lifeless, and restless.

The investigation, which has been conducted in all aspects and to the fullest extent of authority over the past few days, has yielded no results.

Clues were broken, doubts remained unresolved, and in-depth investigations repeatedly yielded no results.

All the investigation results left the elite detectives feeling utterly frustrated and powerless.

An agent responsible for verifying connections with public officials holds the final verification report.

With a grave expression and a frustrated tone, he reported to Colin in a low voice.

"Boss, an internal special investigation into West Kowloon Chief Superintendent Orion."

"Through multi-layered verification, cross-evidence collection, and source tracing, no substantive issues were found in the end."

"Orion's entire resume is spotless, his employment was compliant, his promotions were justified, and his record is clean."

"Although I have close contact with He Fei, all contact scenarios, communication matters, and coordination work are handled separately."

"All of them have publicly and reasonably stated official reasons, complete work records, and compliant procedures to support them."

"There was no transfer of private benefits, no collusion, and no overstepping of authority throughout the entire process."

Another detective then reported the results of Wang Cuiping's investigation, his tone equally frustrated.

"Chief Inspector Wong Tsui-ping of the Organized Crime and Triad Bureau also found no flaws in her investigation, leaving her with no way to investigate."

"Since taking office, the case-solving rate of all cases handled has ranked first in the entire bureau."

"The case-handling procedures are standardized, the law enforcement standards are accurate, the case files are complete, and the integrity records are spotless."

"The only point that could be considered a 'suspicious point' is this: he was born in mainland China but came to Hong Kong to work."

"Apart from this, there is no other point of attack that can be questioned, investigated, or questioned."

The cigarette Colin was holding between his fingers had long since burned out.

The scalding cigarette butt burned his fingertips, bringing him back to his senses. He instinctively let go and threw it away.

He stared intently at the relationship diagram of the three people on the table, a growing sense of hostility rising in his eyes.

The past few days have been fruitless, filled with setbacks and a passive attitude.

This caused the usually composed top commander to become extremely agitated and furious.

He suddenly raised his voice, his tone sharp, piercing, and forceful.

No one can be perfect and without any flaws!

"Everyone has weaknesses, everyone has selfish desires, and everyone leaves their mark!"

"Continue digging deeper! Thoroughly investigate all financial transactions and social circles of these three individuals!"

"Investigate all unusual behavior, abnormal patterns, hidden intersections, and implicit connections!"

"Orion's family lineage, past experiences, and post-war whereabouts!"

"Wang Cuiping's background, her journey to Hong Kong, and her friends and acquaintances!"

"I don't believe that three people, bound together in layers, could be without any loopholes that could be exploited!"

The detective looked troubled and reluctantly revealed the most pressing practical dilemma he was facing.

"Boss, we've exhausted all the clues, traces, and records we could find."

"Our overly in-depth and cross-border investigation has thoroughly alarmed the senior management of the Hong Kong Police Force."

"The Commissioner of Police has formally lodged a strong protest and exerted pressure on us through the Governor's House."

"The other party clearly stated: Our investigation constitutes a serious and excessive interference in Hong Kong's local law enforcement affairs."

"They demand that we immediately restrain our authority, respect the local law enforcement system, and cease our unauthorized investigations!"

This major obstacle completely blocked all conventional investigation channels.

Upon hearing this, Colin's lips curled into a chilling, mocking sneer.

His gaze was strong and domineering, carrying the arrogance and power of the imperial intelligence agency.

His tone was cold, indifferent, and domineering.

"Tell the Governor's Office and the Police Department of Hong Kong."

"This investigation concerns the national security of the British Far East and the very foundation of the British Empire's capital."

"Keswick's death was no accident; the turmoil at Jardine Matheson is a matter of great importance, and no one can stop it!"

"Anyone who dares to refuse to cooperate or deliberately obstruct will bear the consequences themselves!"

A young detective, extremely bold, couldn't help but whisper a question in return.

His tone carried a hint of clear-headed skepticism.

"Boss, we can put strong pressure on the outside world with these words."

"But we all know in our hearts that Jardine Matheson is just private capital of the Keswick family."

"It cannot be considered a true national lifeline or the foundation of national security."

"The so-called national security investigation is a name that we have forcibly imposed on it."

Colin's eyes flashed with a sharp look, instantly silencing the other person's doubts.

He then fell silent, feeling incredibly agitated.

He knew better than anyone that the current situation was already a dead end.

Conventional investigations have reached a dead end, the battle for public opinion has been completely lost, and there is no way to break through official connections.

All overt and covert, compliant and semi-compliant methods have become ineffective.

After a long silence, a field team leader gritted his teeth and spoke up, taking the initiative to propose a solution to break the deadlock.

"Boss, if the conventional approach isn't working, we'll try unconventional methods!"

"Since the outer personnel are impeccable, the clues are closed, and there is no way to break through."

"Then let's target the core objective directly!"

"Target He Fei directly, or his core confidants, and force a breakthrough!"

Colin's eyes were deep, he shook his head slightly, and his tone was cautious and solemn.

"Wait a little longer."

"We currently have no substantial evidence whatsoever."

"Taking action without evidence or proof will only give others ammunition to criticize you and leave you completely passive."

"It would be a losing proposition and could actually trap us in a double whammy of public opinion and regulatory constraints."

The field team leader, looking anxious, continued to offer his advice.

"Boss, intelligence gathering never requires absolute evidence!"

"For high-risk suspects, we will conduct mandatory summons, face-to-face questioning, and on-site verification."

"This is simply our department's standard procedure and authority!"

"Completely compliant and beyond reproach!"

Colin tapped his fingertips lightly on the table, his brain rapidly reviewing all the connections between the old cases.

His tone was low and solemn as he slowly revealed his deeper concerns.

"You don't understand the deeper connections here."

"The modus operandi, the methods used to eliminate the goods remotely in the Wharf theft case."

"It's strikingly similar to the mysterious disappearance of the 'Big Cigar' in 1963; they're practically identical."

"The two bizarre unsolved cases spanning seven years are definitely connected by some hidden thread."

"Currently, both cases are completely unsolved, without clues, traces, or breakthroughs."

"Do you think that by forcibly arresting and questioning people, you can uncover a hidden truth that has been buried for seven years?"

The team members fell silent instantly, and no one responded.

Colin coldly ordered to continue digging deeper into old cases.

"A thorough investigation of the period from 1963 must be conducted immediately by all personnel!"

"Verify the location, movement history, and employment status of all relevant personnel from that year!"

The team members looked troubled but had no choice but to report the truth.

"Boss, we've been repeatedly checking and going through all the files lately."

"The timeline of the 1963 cold case."

"Apart from Orion's presence in overseas battlefields, there is verifiable evidence of this."

"He Fei, Wang Cuiping, and other key associates were all in mainland China at the time."

"All overseas files and Hong Kong records are completely blank, making verification impossible!"

Colin frowned and pressed for the most crucial question in a deep voice.

"Do we still have effective informants and intelligence networks operating within mainland China?"

The team member shook his head, his tone resolute.

"Already cleared and completely invalidated."

"All the undercover agents from the early years either went missing, were exposed, or were eliminated."

"After so many years, even if there are survivors, they are all completely ineffective and cannot be contacted."

"The mainland has extremely strict risk control measures, making it impossible for foreign intelligence forces to infiltrate."

A stalemate, completely locked in.

With both overt and covert storylines, new and old cases, and a peripheral core, there seems to be no way out.

Another team member stepped forward to report the final result of the investigation.

"Boss, the investigation into Keswick's murder and the five bodyguards who accompanied him."

"So far, there has been zero progress, zero clues, and zero traces."

"We have found a few scattered eyewitnesses."

"The perpetrator was masked throughout the crime, dressed in ordinary civilian clothes, and had no distinctive features."

"His height, build, and body shape are all typical of the most common body types in Hong Kong."

"They can be found everywhere in the city, making it impossible to accurately pinpoint, screen, or trace their source."

The team members were completely helpless and strongly advised against it once again.

"Boss, all the usual routes are blocked; continuing this is pointless!"

"At this point, the only option is to resort to force, arrest people directly, and break the deadlock decisively!"

Colin remained silent for a long time, his eyes flashing with struggle, weighing, and calculation.

Finally, he slowly raised his eyes, and the fierceness in them completely subsided.

His voice was low and deliberate, each word spoken slowly and deliberately, as he issued the final order to action.

"it is good."

"Then let's use force."

The team members immediately pressed for details on the key execution methods.

"Boss, are you using our Fifth Division's exclusive, covert, and unconventional methods?"

"Should we proceed with the Hong Kong Police Force's proper procedures and legal summons?"

Colin's eyes were cold, revealing absolute decisiveness and calculation.

"The standard procedure won't work."

"He Fei now enjoys extremely high prestige in Hong Kong's business community, among the general public, and among local forces."

"A summons from the authorities without any evidence will only cause public outcry and conflict with local forces."

"To alert the enemy is a losing proposition."

He raised his eyes, his gaze sharp, locking onto his final, singular target.

"All the mysteries, all the doubts, all the old cases, all the flaws."

"All of this is concentrated on one person."

"Only He Fei knows all the truth and controls all the secrets."

"Tonight, everyone in position, midnight operation."

"Secret infiltration, precise arrest, on-site interrogation!"

"Yes, sir! All personnel, prepare for battle immediately! Mission in the dead of night!"

Everyone stood up instantly, their expressions grim and ready to go.

A covert, assassination-style arrest operation was quietly finalized.

……

As night deepened, the moonlight disappeared, dark clouds obscured the moon, and the entire Hong Kong was plunged into deep darkness.

In the still of the night, the hillside villa area was quiet and secluded, with swaying tree shadows and utter silence.

Danger lurks in the shadows, crises lurk, and a great battle is about to erupt.

Just as all five personnel were assembled, fully equipped, and ready for a surprise attack in the dead of night.

An emergency note that has been passed through multiple hands, desensitized multiple times, and kept absolutely secret.

Through Orian's instructions, Wang Cuiping acted as an intermediary, and several reliable personnel passed the message through layers of intermediaries.

Avoid all eavesdropping, surveillance, spying, and tracking.

Ultimately, it fell firmly into He Yuzhu's hands.

The note contained only a concise and deadly piece of top-secret intelligence.

"The Shepherd Colin Sterling".

"A former British Army major, a veteran of the Peninsular War, and my former direct superior."

"After the war, he retired with me and was recruited into the British Fifth Bureau, specializing in top-secret covert warfare in the Far East."

"In 1963, he secretly went to Hong Kong to investigate the disappearance of the 'Big Cigar,' but returned without any results."

"They act without any moral bottom line, use ruthless and extreme methods, and stop at nothing to achieve their goals."

"Exceptionally perceptive, extremely patient, adept at breaking through desperate situations, and skilled in assassination-style evidence gathering."

"There's a high probability they'll force a breakthrough tonight, so be extremely careful!"

He Yuzhu held the thin note in his hand, his fingertips gently stroking the surface of the paper.

A fleeting look of understanding, amusement, and composure flashed in his eyes.

He spoke softly to himself, his tone relaxed, carrying a calm indifference that seemed to look down on his opponent.

"So he was a defeated enemy from the battlefield back then."

"Colin Sterling, long time no see, this is interesting."

Old enemies reunite, grudges reignite, and a fateful showdown officially begins.

May 20, 1970, 2:15 AM.

The entire city was enveloped in the deepest stillness of the night.

The streets were deserted, traffic was completely stopped, and all the lights in the homes were turned off.

The area surrounding the detached villa on the hillside was completely shrouded in darkness.

Five extremely agile and swift black figures.

Like a phantom in the night, it silently leaps and slides down from outside the high wall.

The movements were light and graceful, the technique professional, the landings silent, and the entire process seamless.

Every movement is the standard stealth posture of a top agent.

The five people had clear division of labor, worked together seamlessly, and followed precise routes.

They silently evaded the villa's regular infrared early warning and shallow security patrols.

With maximum speed and stealth, silently eliminate the shallow guards along the way.

They headed straight for the master bedroom on the third floor of the villa, their target precise and focused on the core.

A hidden parking spot 200 meters away.

The black sedan lay silently, its lights off, hidden in the darkness.

Colin Sterling sat upright in the driver's seat, his posture upright and his eyes deep.

Through the car window, I gazed quietly at the dimly lit villa.

He had already anticipated all the possible outcomes and was simply waiting for his subordinates to bring the target to justice.

As long as He Fei is brought before him, all the mysteries, all the old cases, and all the truth will be revealed.

Tonight, the truth will be revealed completely.

Inside the villa, five elite agents from the Fifth Division successfully infiltrated.

They successfully broke through the outer defenses and infiltrated the main building.

The deeper they went into the heart of the villa, the stronger the sense of eeriness and unease became in everyone's hearts.

The entire villa was too quiet, too smooth, and too unobstructed.

All security measures were rendered ineffective, as if the gates had been deliberately left wide open, allowing intrusion at will.

The security setup was too smooth and unnaturally perfect, completely unlike that of a top-tier corporate boss.

The captain, who was in the lead, immediately sensed a deadly anomaly.

His hair stood on end, and an extreme sense of danger rose in his heart.

"Something's wrong! This is going too smoothly, there's an ambush! Retreat immediately!"

He made a quick decision, whispering orders to prepare for a full evacuation and to minimize losses.