The bandit stronghold was vast, with stakes planted everywhere and numerous individual houses scattered throughout. Most of the buildings were made of wood. A stream seemed to flow through the mountain, and mist swirled around, making the entire stronghold appear extremely hazy from a distance.
Judging by my uncle's expression, he was also here for the first time. We exchanged a quick glance and then headed into the stronghold, or rather, we followed Pierce and the driver.
As we approached the entrance, we discovered it was heavily guarded. The main gate alone had six men in camouflage standing rigidly, armed with assault rifles. They looked like they had undergone rigorous training, exuding an aura of formidable power and ferocity. It was evident they had all killed before, and more than once.
These men were likely ruthless individuals, their bodies bearing the marks of violence. Upon seeing Pierce, they saluted him in unison with extreme deference, exclaiming, "Greetings, Master!"
They all referred to Pierce as "Master," just as my uncle had. Their attitude suggested complete obedience to Pierce; they wouldn't refuse any command he gave.
I couldn't fathom how Pierce managed to have them so utterly devoted to him.
"Gentlemen, this is my territory. You are both welcome. If you follow me diligently from now on, I guarantee you a life beyond your wildest dreams!"
My uncle and I immediately adopted an expression of sincere admiration and keen interest, responding, "Excellent! Master!"
Pierce nodded at us with satisfaction and led us deeper into the stronghold. We walked down a passage, observing more men in camouflage patrolling the area. Some of them were women.
I had previously infiltrated a criminal organization, but the situation then was entirely different from this. It was clear that these criminals were far more ferocious and numerous than the previous group. Moreover, their equipment was superior. Dealing with them would be significantly more difficult than before, and I had to be extra cautious.
I mentally cautioned myself and then glanced at my uncle. His expression told me he was thinking the same thing. I nodded slightly.
Pierce led us into a large hall at the center of the stronghold. A building with rectangular walls, a domed roof, and white glass windows stood before us. Pierce informed us it was the stronghold's conference room.
I assumed he intended to introduce us, as we were new recruits. Indeed, as we entered the building, many people looked our way. Their gazes initially held a hint of confusion, but upon seeing Pierce, they immediately became deferential, as if they trusted anyone he brought with him.
"Master, you're finally back!" several men in camouflage exclaimed obsequiously to Pierce.
Pierce waved his hand, greeting everyone, and then introduced us, "These two are the new members I've brought. They have quite a background; they used to be police officers."
At the mention of police officers, the men in camouflage looked at us with surprise. Some adopted a wary stance, and a few even reached for their weapons. Pierce shot them a stern look, halting their actions.
He paused, then continued, "Don't be nervous, everyone. These two have been subdued by me. You can rest assured. Furthermore, they understand police investigation methods and internal workings. With their help, handling matters will be much easier for us in the future!"
"Master is brilliant! Master is brilliant!" the crowd cheered excitedly, raising their guns in the air.
At this point, my uncle spoke up, "Master, what about Du Yuting?"
"Heh heh, I knew you'd be concerned about this! Don't worry, I'll reunite you soon. Come with me!" Pierce led my uncle out of the conference room. I intended to follow, but Pierce clapped me on the shoulder and said, "He Sheng, you stay here for now. Interact with everyone, get acquainted!"
I was inwardly reluctant, but to avoid arousing Pierce's suspicion, I had no choice but to agree. After they left, several men in camouflage approached me, looking at me with interest. Fortunately, they appeared quite friendly. As soon as they reached me, they began asking me a barrage of questions. I couldn't act aloof; I had to engage in conversation with them, or I would be easily exposed.
I spoke about some of my past experiences, intentionally omitting many details and fabricating some stories. However, many of them recognized me.
"Could you be the renowned detective of China, Mr. He Sheng?" one of the men in camouflage asked first.
I smiled and remained silent. Then, the men in camouflage around me began to speak one after another, "That's right, I recognize him. You used to be the bane of criminals. I can't believe someone like you would join our team!"
This man spoke to me with sarcasm and veiled threats. His eyebrows were particularly thick, and his tone was unpleasant, as if he were targeting me. As soon as he said this, others chimed in.
"Is this guy deliberately trying to be difficult? I can't believe Detective He would be persuaded by our Master!"
"I agree. Detective He, do you realize you've come here to court death? Aren't you a police informant?"
Inwardly, I countered, firstly, I am not sent by the police, and secondly, I didn't come here to eliminate you; I just wanted to find Du Yuting. My arrival here was purely coincidental.
Seeing my silence, a few individuals who seemed to hold Pierce in high regard became impatient. "What do you guys mean? Didn't you hear? Master said to relax. If you think Master is wrong, aren't you challenging his authority? Are you tired of living, or just asking for a beating!"
As they spoke, those men raised their guns and pointed them at the ones who had been echoing the doubts. Those individuals immediately fell silent. Then, many others began to discuss.
"Pierce is definitely not mistaken. Let's not overthink things. Just as he said, even Detective He is now on our side. We won't have to fear the police anymore!"
"Yes! Yes! Long live Master! Long live Pierce!"
Ultimately, these men chose to believe me. This was within my expectations, as I could see that they placed complete trust in whatever Pierce said or decided.