Chapter 284: Mission

“Why do you want to kill him?” Lei Yin asked curiously after listening to Zhang Qian’s explanation.

“Because all indications suggest that the Andes Cult is preparing to expand into Asia. While we don’t know why they’ve been amassing so much funding, we cannot stand by as they target our region. Unlike Europe, which has a stable financial system and abundant reserves, Asia’s economy is comparatively weaker. If we allow them to expand unchecked, the consequences could be more severe than a financial crisis.

Their methods of proselytizing are extremely covert. They only operate in open regions like Hong Kong. Unless they’re officially designated as a cult, the government has no administrative means to ban them. That’s why we’re forced to take these unconventional measures. Furthermore, this isn’t just our country’s concern—several other economically developed Asian nations are also taking this issue very seriously. According to intelligence, they may send people to target this individual as well.”

Lei Yin shook his head. “With the Andes Cult’s resources and influence, establishing a sophisticated intelligence network would be easy for them. If even you’ve received information about other nations’ plans, do you really think they’ll be unprepared?”

Zhang Qian sighed. “That’s exactly our greatest concern and the most likely scenario. Unlike cults that stir public unrest, the Andes Cult’s leader is incredibly low-profile. He’s never appeared in the media and rarely leaves their headquarters in France. On top of that, their strict vetting of followers makes it nearly impossible for outsiders to infiltrate. So, targeting him at their headquarters is almost out of the question.

However, this time, they’re conducting a global religious tour, and their first stop in Asia is Tokyo. This presents us with an excellent opportunity. Despite the risks, we’ve decided to take a shot. To avoid alerting them, we’ve only brought a small team of elites, which is why I hope an expert like you can join us.”

Lei Yin responded with mild exasperation, “I knew it. Every time you come to me, it’s never for anything good. If they’re truly prepared, your operation will be nothing but a suicide mission. Don’t forget, the Andes Cult’s current head of operations in Tokyo is a powerful individual, on par with you. Who knows how many more formidable individuals are by their leader’s side?”

“Masashi, are you really unwilling to help us?” Zhang Qian asked, her face full of disappointment.

Lei Yin glanced at her and nonchalantly asked, “When’s this guy arriving?”

Hearing this, Zhang Qian’s expression lit up with joy. “Are you agreeing to help us?”

Lei Yin opened the can of beer, took a slow sip, and then set it down.

After a moment, he said seriously, “Let me make this clear upfront. I have people I need to protect now. If the situation becomes unfavorable, I won’t stick around. Besides, the Andes Cult is still just a religious organization. While I admit their methods are enigmatic, a country should still have ways to control them. So, I’ll only do my best. Whether we succeed or not will depend on your luck.”

Zhang Qian smiled broadly. “That’s all I could ask for.”

Lei Yin continued, “Back to my earlier question—when is this guy expected to arrive?”

Zhang Qian replied, “According to the latest intel, they’re currently in Italy. Based on their itinerary, they should arrive in Japan within one to two weeks. I’ll inform you of the exact time when it’s confirmed.”

Lei Yin thought for a moment before saying, “Since we’ll only have one chance, I’ll bring someone else with me tomorrow to introduce to you. His skills are no less than mine. However, you must ensure that our identities remain confidential, including from your companions. Can you agree to that?”

“No problem,” Zhang Qian agreed readily.

“Alright then, I’ll head out now,” Lei Yin said, standing up.

“I’ll see you out,” Zhang Qian offered, her mood visibly uplifted.

As they walked to the living room, the young man from before shifted his gaze from the television to Lei Yin, still full of suspicion.

Ignoring him, Lei Yin walked straight to the door and left.

After seeing Lei Yin off, Zhang Qian stretched lazily, looking relaxed, before heading upstairs.

The man called out, “Ms. Zhang, who is he?”

Zhang Qian smiled. “He’ll be temporarily joining us. With him, our chances of success are much higher.”

The man scoffed. “You seem to have a lot of faith in him, but I don’t see what’s so special about him.”

Zhang Qian was about to respond when a male voice came from the staircase. “The fact that you can’t see it is your problem.”

The man glanced at the figure descending the staircase. Though visibly displeased, he refrained from saying anything.

The man coming down the stairs looked at him seriously and said, “Number Three, do you know? From the moment that man walked to the door, he was already aware that I was aiming at him.”

The man was momentarily stunned. “Number One, are you serious?” He knew well the incredible and unpredictable ability possessed by this man.

Number One didn’t answer but instead turned to Zhang Qian. “Ms. Zhang, I admit that man is a rare expert, but he’s still an outsider. Are you truly comfortable letting him join us?”

Zhang Qian smiled slightly. “Strictly speaking, I’m not part of your department either, so I suppose that makes me an outsider too.”

Waving his hand, Number One said, “Ms. Zhang, that’s not what I meant. This mission is particularly dangerous, so I just want to be cautious.”

Zhang Qian smiled gently. “Although I’ve promised not to reveal his identity, I can tell you one thing—he is someone Mr. Yang trusts deeply. Besides, I’ll report this matter to Mr. Yang as well, so you can rest assured.”

“In that case, I won’t ask further. I need to check on the other team members’ training. Excuse me.” With that, Number One walked toward the door.

After watching him leave, Zhang Qian turned to Number Three and said, “I didn’t expect your captain to be such a refined person. It’s quite surprising.”

Number Three smiled wryly. “That’s because you haven’t seen his other side.”

※※※

“Slice this one as well. Old Kuang will be coming over later. One watermelon isn’t enough for that guy, so I bought three just in case.”

“Okay,” Naoko said, picking up the fruit knife to cut another watermelon.

Seeing her slice the watermelon horizontally into three large pieces, just like before, Lei Yin chuckled. “Naoko, your cutting method is a bit unusual.”

“What’s unusual about it? This is how we’ve always cut watermelons in my family.”

“So, it’s the traditional Hasegawa family technique? I’m honored.” Lei Yin grinned as he hugged her slender waist from behind.

“Stop talking nonsense.”

Caressing her soft waist, Lei Yin leaned close to her ear. “Your waist seems to have gotten slimmer. Are you dieting? Don’t. I prefer you just the way you are—slightly fuller. Not every man likes skinny women.”

Naoko’s body went weak under his touch, and she leaned against him for support. “No, I’m not. It’s probably because I’ve been taking yoga classes lately.”

“Yoga or whatever else is fine, but remember to take it easy. Don’t forget your body isn’t suited for intense exercise. Honestly, your figure is perfect; there’s no need to do anything more.”

Naoko’s heart melted at his words. Turning around, she rested her face against his chest and said softly, “I want to be a woman worthy of you.”

Lei Yin kissed her cheek affectionately. “What are you talking about? When we walk down the street together, everyone probably thinks you’re the flower and I’m the pile of manure—just a fresher-looking pile of manure.”

Naoko laughed and lightly hit his chest. After a moment, she looked up into his eyes and said, “Only someone who truly knows you would understand how wonderful you are. Sometimes, I feel so fortunate that I had that episode in Nagoya. If it weren’t for that hospitalization, I might never have had the courage to confess my feelings to you. Some opportunities, once missed, may never come again.”

Lei Yin thought about it seriously and realized she was right.

As someone who had witnessed the endless cycle of life and death, he had always been detached from matters of romance. In his countless reincarnations, the number of times he had genuinely fallen in love could be counted on one hand. At the time, Naoko was just a beautiful teacher he found likable. If she hadn’t mustered the courage to take that first step, their relationship might never have developed into what it was now. Their becoming lovers was less about fate and more about her efforts.

This realization stirred an indescribable feeling within Lei Yin, prompting him to pull her head into his embrace.

Naoko was overjoyed and tightened her arms around his waist.

Ever since Amy, the clingy little companion, had joined them, it had been a long time since the two of them had enjoyed such a quiet moment together. Neither wanted to move, content to stay in each other’s arms.

However, the doorbell rang suddenly, breaking the moment. Shortly after, they heard Aiko shouting, “Gennai, someone’s here for you. Come out quickly!”

“Got it, I’m coming.” Lei Yin called back.

Lowering his head, he kissed Naoko on the forehead and said, “It’s probably Old Kuang. Finish cutting the watermelon and bring it out.”

“Okay,” Naoko replied softly, but she still didn’t immediately let go of her embrace. Her face flushed slightly as she gazed at him.

Sensing her attachment, Lei Yin smiled and leaned close to her ear. “If nothing comes up tomorrow night, I’ll take Amy to Kazumi’s place and let them keep her company. Then I’ll come pick you up afterward.”

Naoko’s eyes sparkled with excitement, her heartbeat quickening as warmth spread throughout her body.

“If you don’t let go soon, be careful—Kuang Dao might barge in here unexpectedly,” he teased, giving her firm and shapely hip a playful squeeze.

“Mm…” Naoko, sensitive by nature, let out a soft sound and quickly released her hold. Her face turned bright red.

Lei Yin kissed her smooth, ruby-like cheek one more time before finally stepping out of the kitchen.

Smiling to herself, Naoko touched her flushed face before turning back to continue slicing the watermelon.

Before reaching the living room, Lei Yin heard Kuang Dao’s voice. “Hey, kid! Hurry up and grab me some beers!”

“The beer’s in the fridge. Can’t you get it yourself?” Aiko, who didn’t particularly like the rough man, replied lazily, engrossed in her game.

“Pfft, no manners at all, this brat.”

When Lei Yin entered the living room, he saw Kuang Dao opening the fridge to grab some beers. However, what surprised him was the presence of Tani Akiko and her daughter, who had also come over. The baby girl was sitting quietly, watching Amy and Aiko play their game with unblinking eyes.

“Good evening, Ms. Tani,” Lei Yin said as he walked toward Akiko, who was seated on the sofa.

Akiko stood up and said apologetically, “I’m sorry for disturbing you so late. Bibi kept pestering Mr. Kuang Dao, so I had no choice but to accompany her here. I hope you don’t mind, Mr. Gennai.”

“It’s no trouble at all. The more, the merrier. Please, have a seat.” Lei Yin noticed how this elegant woman before him seemed like a completely different person from the one drowning her sorrows at the bar back then.

Just then, Kuang Dao walked over, holding a few cans of beer. “Damn it, this heat is getting worse and worse. I’d strip off my pants if I could.”

“You’re the one who told Zhang Mingyu not to install air conditioning in your training room. Who’s to blame for that?” Lei Yin took a can of beer from him and casually opened it.

“Bullshit. Training in air conditioning? That’s no way to train!”

Lei Yin scoffed. “You call that training? It’s just labor. I’ve told you before, for people like us who have grasped the pinnacle of the way of the blade, merely training the body is pointless. You need to spend more time thinking if you want to break through your current bottleneck and go further.”

“Think, my ass. I’m not like you. My skills were honed through actual combat. Instead of daydreaming, I’d rather spar with you a few more times.”

Lei Yin knew the old brute had a point, so he didn’t argue further.

At that moment, Naoko came out carrying a tray with a large plate of sliced watermelon.

“Good evening, Mr. Kuang Dao, Ms. Tani. Please help yourselves. There’s plenty more,” Naoko said warmly as she set the watermelon down. She then turned to the others, “Aiko, Amy, and Bibi, come eat some!” After that, she went back to the kitchen to bring out the remaining watermelon.

Kuang Dao, showing no sign of restraint, responded with a casual grunt before grabbing the largest slice and digging in.

Seeing the three girls still immersed in their game, Lei Yin called out loudly to Amy, “Hey, kid, come over here.”

Amy was the most obedient to Lei Yin. As soon as she heard his voice, she immediately put down her controller and ran over.

“Amy, don’t go! There are still lots of monsters!” Aiko shouted in frustration.

As Amy approached the sofa, she noticed the unfamiliar faces next to Lei Yin and hesitated for a moment.

“Come here, kid,” Lei Yin said, beckoning her.

The little girl didn’t hesitate any longer and quickly ran to his side, sitting down next to him.

“Mr. Gennai, who is this?” Akiko asked curiously, glancing at Amy.

“She’s Amy, the child of a friend. Since her guardian is very busy, I’m taking care of her temporarily,” Lei Yin explained as he handed a slice of watermelon to the little girl.

“She doesn’t seem Japanese. Is she mixed-race?”

“Your observation is sharp. Few people can tell at a glance, but yes, she is a mixed-race child.”

“You flatter me. I occasionally host mixed-race guests at my inn, so it’s not hard to distinguish.”

As they chatted, Aiko, having saved her game progress, walked over, pulling Bibi along with her.

Seeing Kuang Dao devouring the watermelon, the little girl pouted and said, “Kuang Dao-ojisan, why didn’t you call me before eating by yourself?”

Without lifting his head, Kuang Dao replied, “Don’t be so noisy. Someone already called you, but you didn’t hear.”

Making a face at him, the little girl skipped over to sit beside Tani Akiko.

At that moment, Naoko came out again, carrying another plate of freshly sliced watermelon.

“Hello, Naoko-neesan,” the little girl greeted sweetly.

“Hello, Bibi. Ms. Tani, please don’t be shy,” Naoko said as she set the watermelon down. She then sat beside Amy on the other side.

As they ate, Aiko asked, “Gennai, have you decided when to go to Okinawa? Ryoko is so excited about the free trip that she’s been calling me nonstop, asking when we’re going.”

“It’ll probably be about two weeks after summer break starts. Rumi has to attend her kendo club training camp, so we’ll have to wait until she’s done.”

“That’s so long!”

“What’s the rush? It’s more fun when everyone’s there.”

“Mr. Gennai, are you planning a trip to Okinawa?” Akiko asked.

“Yes. Ms. Tani, would you like to bring your daughter along? The more, the merrier.”

“Thank you, but I might not have time. Summer break is the busiest season for the inn.”

As they chatted, Naoko noticed that Amy’s face was covered in watermelon juice. Smiling, she used a napkin to gently clean her up.

“Thank you,” the little girl said, glancing up at her.

Naoko smiled. “Is it tasty?”

“Mm-hmm.”

“Wait a moment. I’ll get a towel to put around your neck so your dress doesn’t get dirty.”

“Thank you, Naoko.”

After Naoko left, Amy put her leftover watermelon slice aside and began wiping her sticky hands with a napkin.

Suddenly, something hit her face.

Reaching up, Amy felt the object and found it was a watermelon seed.

Turning her head, she saw Tani Akiko sitting nearby, talking to Lei Yin and Aiko. Amy’s expression turned puzzled, but she quickly turned back.

Just as she did, another watermelon seed hit her face.

This time, she looked over quickly and saw the culprit: the little girl sitting next to Tani Akiko, leaning out with a triumphant smile and making a victory sign.

Earlier, the little girl had repeatedly asked Amy to let her play the game, but Amy, engrossed in her own play and unable to understand her, ignored her requests. Upset at being ignored and jealous of how much attention Naoko was giving Amy, the little girl decided to cause trouble.

Though Amy was older, the little girl, often getting into fights with boys at school, didn’t feel intimidated. To her, Amy’s quiet demeanor seemed easy to bully.

Realizing who was behind it, Amy’s face showed clear displeasure.

Taking advantage of her mother being nearby to shield her, the little girl aimed carefully and flicked another seed, which landed squarely on Amy’s neck.

Seeing her hit the mark again, the little girl nearly burst out laughing.

Furious, Amy, who had inherited her father’s boldness, suddenly jumped off the sofa and marched toward the little girl.

Startled but unwilling to back down, the little girl met her gaze with a defiant expression.

Tani Akiko looked on in confusion as Amy approached her daughter. She then heard Amy say in halting Japanese, “Why are you doing this?”

“I don’t understand what you’re saying,” the little girl replied, feigning ignorance and waving her hand dismissively.

Angered further, Amy glared at her, then grabbed a slice of watermelon from the table and smashed it onto her head.

Covered in sticky watermelon juice, the little girl screamed loudly.

No one had expected Amy to react this way. Tani Akiko and Aiko were momentarily stunned, staring at the two girls in shock.

After her act of retaliation, Amy ran back to Lei Yin, climbed into his lap, and said, “Lei, she bullied me.”

Lei Yin, who had been about to scold her, was left speechless by her complaint.

“You little brat, I won’t let you get away with this!” the little girl shouted, struggling as Tani Akiko dragged her to the bathroom.

Amy stuck her tongue out at her and then nestled herself into Lei Yin’s arms. Lei Yin sighed, rubbing his forehead as he looked at the little troublemaker.

※※※

“Allow me to formally introduce these two gentlemen. This is Mr. Yan, who visited us last night, and his friend, Mr. Ren. They will be participating in this special operation. Mr. Yang has officially approved their involvement. I hope everyone can cooperate and assist one another,” Zhang Qian said.

After her introduction, the cold and indifferent reactions of the others made her feel awkward.

Kuang Dao, his face covered like Lei Yin’s, noticed the unfriendly looks in the others’ eyes. With a sneer, he casually sat on the sofa, placing his shoed feet boldly on the coffee table.

Lei Yin chuckled, said nothing, and walked over to the fridge to grab a beer.

Seeing the arrogant demeanor of these two newcomers, the others were furious, their eyes filled with murderous intent.

Sensing the growing tension, Zhang Qian quickly glanced at Number One, the team leader, hoping for some intervention. But Number One ignored her, his expression cold as he studied the two masked men.

Angered by his inaction, Zhang Qian said, “Number One, come with me.” She then headed upstairs.

Number One silently followed her.

As soon as the study door closed, Zhang Qian, her voice sharp with anger, demanded, “What is the meaning of this?”

Number One shrugged. “Ms. Zhang, I don’t quite understand what you mean.”

“Don’t play dumb with me! You’re the team leader; you should understand the importance of this mission. Why are you treating the people I brought to help us this way?”

Gazing at her angry yet beautiful face, Number One said coldly, “Ms. Zhang, while you’re the overall commander of this mission, don’t you think your actions are disheartening to the team? Do you really believe that our special unit needs outsiders to complete this mission?”

Zhang Qian sneered. “To be honest, yes, I do.”

Hearing this, Number One’s eyes flashed with a terrifying light, and a suffocating aura of killing intent surged from him.

Zhang Qian met his gaze calmly, showing no sign of backing down.

As they stared each other down, Number One suddenly noticed that the large bookshelves behind Zhang Qian were slowly rising.

Startled, he glanced around with the corner of his eye and realized that all the furniture in the study—chairs, the desk, the lamp—was silently lifting three feet off the ground.

At the same moment, he noticed Zhang Qian’s lips twitch slightly.

Seeing her faint smile, Number One immediately sensed danger, but it was too late. He suddenly felt an invisible force pressing him downward.

The force was not only sudden but immense, nearly forcing him to the ground.

Reacting quickly, Number One spread his legs into a defensive stance and let out a low grunt, managing to stay upright by sheer willpower.

Zhang Qian, not intending to push him too far, did not increase the pressure further. She simply watched him coldly.

Staring at the beautiful woman before him, Number One was deeply shaken.

Though he knew she was an esper, it was the first time he had witnessed her powers firsthand—and on himself, no less.

She had managed to lift all the objects in the room while simultaneously pressing him down with precision and ease. It was evident she wasn’t even using her full strength. For the first time, he realized he couldn’t gauge the depth of her abilities.

Finally, Zhang Qian spoke. “I don’t deny that you and your team possess excellent skills. But even alone, I’m confident I could hold you all off for a while. It seems you’ve underestimated our opponents. If we weren’t short on manpower, I’d bring the entire Division Nine here.”

Number One, his face expressionless, replied, “Ms. Zhang, I don’t wish to have a conflict with you, but if you don’t release me, don’t blame me for retaliating.”

Zhang Qian glanced at him, sighed softly, and released her control.

As she exhaled, the furniture slowly descended back to the ground, and Number One straightened himself.

“If there’s nothing else, I’ll take my leave.” With that, Number One opened the door and walked out.

Realizing she couldn’t convince him, Zhang Qian shook her head and followed. She understood that these rebellious soldiers were unlikely to accept outsiders easily, especially considering how difficult those two men were. But there wasn’t enough time to let them gradually adjust.

When they returned to the main hall, they found it empty.

“Where did everyone go?” Zhang Qian asked.

Number One didn’t reply. Instead, he concentrated and listened carefully before saying, “They’re in the basement.”

Noticing the absence of the two new arrivals, Zhang Qian felt a sense of foreboding. She quickly followed Number One to the basement, silently hoping that the two wouldn’t cause any trouble.

As she walked, she couldn’t help but worry.