Chapter 15: Seized

At six o’clock in the morning, before dawn had broken over Anxi City, a faint moisture lingered in the air, carrying a slight chill. Through the hazy mist, a brand-new red sports car rolled into the courtyard of the Municipal Public Security Bureau, its lights off as it came to a stop.

Not long after the car halted, a figure appeared in the courtyard, glancing around cautiously. His gaze lingered on the car with some hesitation until the headlights flickered briefly and the horn gave a short beep.

“Dah.”

Only then did Wang Li confirm that the car was indeed waiting for him. He quickened his pace, reaching the front of the vehicle in three strides. At that moment, the front window of the sports car rolled down.

“Captain Ji.”

“Get in.”

“Alright.”

Barely had he settled inside when footsteps echoed from the dormitory building nearby. Both men turned to see Qiu Jiang standing there, still looking a bit sleepy.

At a glance, Qiu Jiang spotted the very sports car she had been seeing over the past few days. She hurried over and greeted Captain Ji just as Wang Li did.

“Good morning, Captain Ji.”

“Get in.”

She had expected to have to explain herself, but surprisingly, that step was spared. Relieved, Qiu Jiang instinctively moved toward the back seat, but upon opening the door, she caught sight of Wang Li almost sprawling across the entire rear seat with his long legs and an awkward smile. Realizing the situation instantly, she turned around and took the front seat.

With everyone aboard, the car accelerated swiftly. The engine roared to life, and before either could react, the car had already left the bureau’s courtyard, heading north toward Xulin City.

Xulin was over two hundred kilometers from Anxi City, a drive of more than three hours. This meant they could arrive shortly after nine, just as the Xulin police were settling into their workday—perfect timing.

Fortunately, they had left early, and the roads were relatively clear, perhaps allowing them to arrive even sooner, though neither Qiu Jiang nor Wang Li expected such an early arrival.

At exactly 8:30, they reached the highway entrance to Xulin City. Both Qiu Jiang and Wang Li were still somewhat shaken.

Though Captain Ji drove steadily, the speed was terrifying. Qiu Jiang, who had been drowsy when she got in, was now wide awake, startled all the way through. She stepped out full of energy to meet their counterparts from Xulin’s police force.

“Captain Ji, right? Pleasure to meet you. I’m Zheng Zhiyong, captain of Team One at the Xulin Municipal Bureau.”

“Brother Zheng.”

The two leaders exchanged a friendly fist bump before introducing their team members.

“These are my men, Li Mingyue and Zhang Tianguang.”

“Qiu Jiang, Wang Li.”

Among the other side’s team was a woman in her thirties with a neat short haircut, exuding a spirited and commanding presence that immediately inspired respect—the very image Qiu Jiang aspired to embody. Her eyes lit up with admiration and fondness.

Li Mingyue gave a slight nod in return. Though cool, her demeanor was surprisingly not unapproachable.

With both teams assembled, communication flowed smoothly. Given the tight schedule, Zheng Zhiyong got straight to the point.

“That headhunter’s real name is Lin Hai, nickname Brother Hai. Known locally as a troublemaker, he’s been in and out of jail multiple times. His reputation is poor, but his connections are extensive. In recent years, he’s often recruited people in Xulin and surrounding areas to work on projects down south, pocketing some finder’s fees. Some have made money through him, so many still trust him.”

“However, in recent years, he’s fallen out with the construction crews. When they weren’t paid, the locals got angry and beat him up. He returned yesterday evening to lay low, but since he still has cases pending here in Xulin, he won’t be able to stay long and will have to find another place to hide. I’ve already assigned people to watch him, but he’s slippery and time is running out. I’ll take you there now. Once you finish the interrogation, we’ll take him into custody.”

“Alright, thank you, Brother Zheng.”

“Ha! No problem. You might find yourself needing my help in the future, Captain Ji. Don’t mind my pestering then.”

“Brother Zheng, you’re joking. You’re welcome to visit Anxi anytime. I’ll be at your service.”

Captain Ji’s replies were well-measured. Despite his affluent appearance and somewhat reserved demeanor, he was surprisingly approachable and cooperative.

Zheng Zhiyong had initially worried that Captain Ji, being from Xiangjiang, might look down on them, but after this meeting, he was relieved and even pleased.

“We’ll lead the way. Captain Ji, just follow us.”

“Understood.”

Each team returned to their vehicles, and soon they departed from the Xulin highway interchange, heading toward an apartment building in the old district of Xulin City. About fifty minutes later, the two cars stopped before a newly constructed residential building.

Qiu Jiang peered through the window, curiously taking in the surroundings.

The building was clearly new, its facade pristine. The landscaping below was beautifully maintained, with evergreen plants still lush. Nearby flowerbeds held hardy plants that added vibrant colors to the community, creating an inviting atmosphere.

She glanced several times, unconsciously murmuring, “This building must be expensive.”

“Probably about the same as in Anxi City—maybe a couple thousand per square meter,” Wang Li replied.

Qiu Jiang mentally calculated her salary and fell silent.

“I can’t afford it,” she sighed.

Wang Li offered some comfort. “You’re still young. Keep saving.”

Captain Ji glanced at her. “Do well, and I’ll get you a raise.”

“No way. I just started,” she said, though her eyes brightened.

“If the team won’t give it to you, I’ll make up the difference.”

Her eyes sparkled even more. “Really? Thank you, Captain Ji.”

He smirked slightly. “Don’t forget the conditions.”

“I’ll definitely keep working hard, create miracles, and become one of your rising stars, never tarnishing your reputation,” Qiu Jiang vowed, raising her hand solemnly.

Captain Ji was momentarily speechless.

“Why didn’t I know you were such a smooth talker before?” he asked, frowning slightly as his fingers tapped the window frame. “Good. Keep that up. Our team needs someone as eloquent as you.”

Qiu Jiang wasn’t sure if it was a compliment, but she accepted it as one.

“Thank you, Captain Ji.”

Always one to seize an opportunity.

Wang Li chuckled softly, and even Captain Ji’s lips twitched in amusement.

Though the teasing made them the center of attention, the atmosphere in the car lightened, dispelling some of the awkwardness between unfamiliar colleagues. It was quite pleasant.

Qiu Jiang’s eyes curved into a bright smile.

Before long, Zheng Zhiyong and his team exited their vehicle ahead. Captain Ji’s expression turned serious.

“Get out.”

“Yes, sir.”

Qiu Jiang and Wang Li followed him, with Zheng Zhiyong leading the way. Li Mingyue and Zhang Tianguang remained downstairs, ready to mobilize if needed.

The four of them swiftly entered the stairwell and climbed to the sixth floor. Standing at the door of the middle apartment, they positioned themselves on either side, exchanging determined looks and finalizing their approach.

Qiu Jiang stepped forward and knocked.

“Who is it?”

Inside, the sound of slippers scraping the floor filtered through the thin door. Qiu Jiang swiftly pulled out a prop and, with a sweet, almost cloying voice, began her act.

“Auntie, I’m from the milk station. Our new store just opened, and we’d love for you to try some. If you like it, you can order from us.”

She lifted the milk carton in her hand, hoping to catch the eye of whoever was peeking through the door.

Her performance flowed smoothly and naturally, drawing the attention of the three men nearby.

If they hadn’t seen her in action, they wouldn’t have believed such a delicate, pretty young woman capable of deception.

Sure enough, the person inside showed no suspicion.

“Free samples?”

“Of course. If you like it, I’ll bring more in the next couple of days. Just let me know on the third day,” Qiu Jiang said cheerfully and earnestly, making it hard to doubt her sincerity.

The door creaked open, revealing a wary woman in her fifties or sixties who glanced sideways through the security door.

Qiu Jiang looked at her with watery eyes. “Auntie, if you find it tasty, please support our business.”

Li Guifen finally relaxed, smiling warmly. “Don’t worry, we haven’t settled on a milk supplier yet. If the kids like your milk, I’ll order from you. Just don’t forget to keep bringing it these next couple of days.”

“Of course, Auntie.”

Qiu Jiang smiled innocently. The moment the security door opened, she quickly placed her foot to block the entrance. As Li Guifen sensed something amiss, Qiu Jiang gripped the doorframe with both hands and kicked the door wide open.

“Don’t move! Police, carrying out an operation—”

In a flash, Wang Li and the others stormed into the apartment. Inside, the occupant sensed danger and barreled through the cramped space, pushing and shoving to escape.

“Move aside! Move aside!”

But just as he burst through the door, his harsh voice suddenly turned into a blood-curdling scream.

“Ahhh!”

“My hand! My hand! Let me go!”

Seeing him trapped with his arm twisted behind his back, half his body lifted off the ground in a pitiful struggle, Zheng Zhiyong showed no sympathy. He slapped the man’s face with his pistol.

“Run, huh? You’re so fast—let’s see where you can run this time.”

Lin Hai recognized Zheng Zhiyong immediately. His fleshy face trembled violently at the sight of the gun.

“Captain Zheng, I’m innocent!”

“Innocent my foot. Your extortion is a done deal. And you still dared to come back? Get ready for jail.”

“It’s not my fault,” he pleaded with a pained expression. “I just brought them out and charged a small finder’s fee. I didn’t do anything wrong. I’m a law-abiding citizen now. Don’t listen to their lies.”

“Enough with the lip service. Someone’s going to ask you some questions this time. You better be honest.”

Zheng Zhiyong motioned behind him. Lin Hai instantly felt his arm tugged again, causing him to yell in pain.

“Brother Captain, ask your questions, and I promise to tell the truth. But could you please release me first? I can’t take this pain anymore.”

“Where is Jia Honghe?” Captain Ji asked.

At that name, cold sweat poured down Lin Hai’s forehead. His eyes nearly popped out as he twisted his body wildly, screaming.

“It wasn’t me who killed him! Really, it wasn’t me! There’s a rightful owner of this grudge—don’t come after me!”

They exchanged a glance.

They had found the right man after all.