Hearing Jiang Ce's response, Yan Hongzhen halted and turned to look back at him.
Jiang Ce knew this was the critical moment for his lie to pass muster. He immediately met Yan Hongzhen's gaze with such sincerity and innocence that even an Oscar-winning actor would have felt inadequate.
Yan Hongzhen's brow furrowed. After a deep, searching look at Jiang Ce, he turned and resumed walking.
Jiang Ce didn't know if Yan Hongzhen truly believed him, but he felt like he had successfully bluffed his way through. A moment later, he heard Yan Hongzhen tell Dongfang Jun, "Gather everyone within an hour."
"Yes, sir!" Dongfang Jun responded respectfully before hurrying away.
After that, Yan Hongzhen fell silent. The three of them proceeded without a word until they stopped before a large metal door. With a metallic hum, the doors slid open automatically.
