CHAPTER 25: UNEXPECTED ALLY

Si Kong's trusted lieutenant, Wong, approached him with a somber expression.

"Captain, I've discovered a traitor among our ranks," Wong said, voice low.

Si Kong's eyes narrowed. "Who?"

Wong hesitated. "Gao, the scout. He's been feeding our opponents information."

Si Kong's face darkened. "Summon Gao."

Gao arrived, sweat beading on his forehead.

"Gao, is this true?" Si Kong demanded.

Gao's eyes darted between Si Kong and Wong. "I... I had no choice. They threatened my family."

Si Kong's expression softened slightly. "Why didn't you come to me?"

Gao's voice cracked. "Fear. I didn't want to lose everything."

Si Kong's gaze turned cold. "You've lost more than that now. Wong, take Gao into custody."

As Wong led Gao away, Si Kong's thoughts turned to Guard4 sudden capture.

Si Kong sought out Ling, needing information on Chenheng's movements because she had him tail him and watch his movements in the house.

"Ling, have you heard anything?" Si Kong asked, voice low.

Ling's eyes darted around, ensuring solitude. "Nothing, Captain."

As Ling handed Si Kong a cup of tea, their hands touched. Si Kong noticed a small, hidden compartment in Ling's sleeve.

"Ling, what's this?" Si Kong's gaze narrowed, eyes locked on the compartment.

Ling's composure faltered. "Just... a trinket, Captain."

Si Kong's curiosity piqued, he gently opened the compartment, revealing a small, intricately carved box.

The box's design seemed familiar. Si Kong's mind raced, connecting the symbol to Li Jin's story.

"Ling," Si Kong's voice softened, "this symbol... it's Li Jin's family crest."

Ling's face paled, eyes wide with fear.

Si Kong's gaze locked onto Ling's. "Tell me, Ling. What's your connection to Li Jin?"

Ling hesitated, then revealed her secret. "I'm Li Jin's cousin. I've been feeding him information."

Si Kong's expression turned thoughtful. "Your loyalty is admirable, Ling. But dangerous."

Ling's voice trembled. "I'll do whatever it takes to bring down Chenheng."

Si Kong nodded. "You're with us now. Together, we'll bring justice."