Morning came after a bloody and terrifying night.
In the central palace.
A man stood wearing a gray robe, his hands clasped behind his back.
His beard was a mix of black and white, and he looked like an aged young man.
He was the city's ruler, Mao Tian.
Behind him, at a round table, sat three individuals — members of the Four Leaders.
One of them had short black hair, masculine features, and sharp gray eyes. His arms were crossed over his chest.
He was Leader Ling Shao.
Next to him stood a man who appeared to be in his late fifties, whose demeanor radiated calmness and comfort.
He was Leader Ho Ji.
On the opposite side, a man clasped his hands on the table, his expression grim.
He was Leader You Hao.
Leader Kai Fu was absent because he was responsible for urgent matters that could not be postponed or ignored.
"Our teams have been attacked more than enough, and now with the attack on Ray Kang's squad, the matter is confirmed," Leader You Hao said.