Half an hour later…
Sol, Nicole, Zhu Yuan, and their group had successfully led the residents of Canvas Street through the collapsed Hollow railway and out of the danger zone.
Zhu Yuan and Qingyi had already phoned Chief Bringer of the Public Security Bureau, confirming that all residents were safe and no longer at risk of Vision Corporation pulling any tricks.
"Chief Bringer, this is Zhu Yuan," she said as the call connected.
"Ah, Zhu Yuan! What's the matter?" Bringer's voice was warm and affable.
She spoke with measured clarity. "Based on the report from Hollow Investigative Association ACE Investigator Sol Mercer, we discovered that Vision Corporation deliberately avoided paying demolition fees by refusing to relocate the residents of Canvas Street. We've verified the intel as accurate. With Sol's help, and with the assistance of the Cunning Hares, all 400 residents have been rescued."
"Vision Corporation dispatched a high-level criminal named Berbick and his 44 men to suppress the residents. All were eliminated by Sol Mercer. Meanwhile, the Cunning Hares defeated the Dead End Butcher to open an escape route."
"Some of the demolition workers appears to be aware of the truth. I recommend immediate arrest for testimony as hostile witnesses."
"This case involves the lives of over 400 citizens. Criminals posed as security officers, attempted murder, and have sought to silence us. Vision Corporation is guilty of malicious bidding, conspiracy to murder, and collusion with criminals."
"This qualifies as a major criminal case with extremely severe circumstances. The Cunning Hares and Sol Mercer played a crucial role in resolving it, and both merit commendation."
Zhu Yuan delivered her report in a single, flawless breath.
"…" On the other end, Bringer's hand nearly slipped from the phone. His heart pounded wildly.
How many years had it been since such a monumental case landed on his desk? As Deputy Chief of Janus District's Public Security Bureau, if this had gone undiscovered, more than 400 lives would have been lost.
And if the scandal leaked afterward, not only would his career be over, but resignation in disgrace would be unavoidable.
Thankfully—thankfully—Zhu Yuan and Qingyi had resolved it.
Especially Sol Mercer: he provided the lead, killed the enemy, even took down a high-level fugitive. A miracle worker!
Not just an ACE Investigator with a reputation—he was practically Bringer's long-lost brother!
"Zhu Yuan, I understand the situation. You two did brilliantly! I'll come to the site personally!" Bringer's voice shook with emotion. "I want to thank Investigator Sol Mercer face-to-face—and curse it, even that infuriating but noble Cunning Hares!"
"I'll apply for maximum funding rewards. From now on, any problem Sol Mercer or Cunning Hares faces in Janus District is my problem!"
"And of course, Zhu Yuan, Qingyi—that goes for you as well!"
"Tell the residents that Deputy Chief Bringer of Janus District is here to escort them home! I'll hold Vision Corporation accountable, no matter the cost!"
"Wait for it—security forces and reporters are already on their way!"
His excitement spiraled, words tumbling out faster than thought.
Fail the case, and he bore the blame. Solve it, and the merit was his—huge merit. His deputies cracked a massive case, proving his leadership flawless.
With a little press coverage, his next promotion was practically guaranteed.
Sol Mercer, Cunning Hares, Zhu Yuan, Qingyi—you've saved my career, my future! My rebirth owes to you all!
From a higher post, he could finally advance his ideals.
"Understood, Chief. Please calm down—we'll wait just outside the Hollow." Zhu Yuan, surrounded by the group, spoke with polite restraint.
"Excellent. I'll be right there!"
Bringer hung up, immediately mobilizing every available officer toward Canvas Street, and dispatched the Riot Special Task Force to arrest Pearlman and all key suspects from Vision Corporation overnight.
On the ride to the Hollow, he dialed every television station and newspaper, summoning the "damned gossips" to cover his great victory.
Not long after, dozens of security vehicles rolled up outside the Dead End Hollow.
Bringer stepped out in a flourish, striding forward with imposing dignity.
Cameras flashed, microphones bristled—but he was every inch the picture of righteous authority.
In a few steps, he stood before Sol and bowed deeply.
"Thank you, noble and powerful ACE Investigator, for saving so many innocent lives!"
"From this day, your burdens are mine. In Janus District, no hero who rescues the people shall suffer the slightest injustice!"
"Our bureau will work overnight. By the day after tomorrow at the latest, your commendation will be delivered!"
Though the words sounded rehearsed, the gratitude was utterly genuine. Sol had saved not just hundreds of citizens—but Bringer's career itself.
From today forward, Sol was under his protection.
"No thanks needed. It's merely my duty as an ACE Investigator," Sol replied, equally fluent in official jargon.
Still, he felt the sincerity. And he realized: in Janus District, he could now walk sideways with impunity—though, truthfully, he already could.
After greeting Sol, Bringer turned to commend Nicole and the others, saving Zhu Yuan and Qingyi's reward for later at the bureau.
In the glare of the press, Nicole stood tall and resolute, every bit the war goddess.
"To protect the lives and property of New Eridu's people, Cunning Hares will brave any danger without hesitation!" she declared.
"Is it true Cunning Hares slew the Dead End Butcher to evacuate residents faster? You're leagues better than that dogshit Vision Corporation!"
The question came from Rock Emperor, a reporter Nicole instantly recognized—the same scoundrel who once called in helicopter fire on her.
Her brows furrowed, but she swallowed her irritation. This was a perfect PR opportunity.
"That's right. To secure the safe evacuation of Canvas Street, Cunning Hares eliminated the Butcher," she said firmly.
"And this case, too, was exposed and resolved thanks to our outstanding colleague, Sol."
"A socially responsible and powerful agency like the Cunning Hares—that's the kind of agency the people of New Eridu deserves to trust!"
"We stand with Canvas Street, and we declare war on Vision Corporation. They will pay the price that they deserve!"