Back to the 20th Ward

Lin Yi quietly cursed the old fox in his mind. It was evident that Yoshitoki Washuu still didn't trust him, which was why he had Yukinori Shinohara accompany him. After all, Shinohara had a personality that would unquestionably report any significant events to headquarters.

"Agreed," Lin Yi respectfully replied on the surface.

"In addition, we need to proactively prepare for Aogiri Tree's next target. If they succeed again, the public's faith in us will waver," Yoshitoki Washuu stated solemnly. "Based on current intelligence, Aogiri Tree's next target could possibly be the 3rd or 13th ward."

"These locations are near the west. Could they be planning to breach our defense from one side?" speculated Kiyoko Aura.

"It's highly possible. However, these are just speculations," nodded Yoshitoki Washuu. "That's why every department needs to increase their manpower now. Everyone should be cautious and hold their positions."

"Director, what about the containment facility?" asked Kyouji Misaka, who had been silent until now.

"The Ghoul containment facility is also a priority. Kyouji, when you return, reinforce the defense there as well."

"Understood."

Lin Yi raised an eyebrow. Whether he had prior intelligence or was simply perceptive, as someone familiar with the original story, he already knew that Aogiri Tree's next target was the Ghoul containment facility.

The special meeting came to a close.

For Lin Yi, the most disappointing part was still not meeting Kishou Arima.

"Young people these days are truly impressive, growing more spirited by the day," joked Kiyoko Aura as everyone dispersed.

"Ms. Kiyoko, why underestimate yourself? Weren't you also a rising star in the CCG when you were young?" Lin Yi enjoyed conversing with beautiful women.

They sat close together, and Kiyoko Aura was surprised by Lin Yi's familiarity. She turned her head slightly, locked eyes with him, and gave him a once-over.

"I heard you injured one of Owl's arms during the battle in the 11th ward. Is that true?" she asked.

"It was just luck. My Quinque is quite unique, and I caught the opponent off guard. I probably won't be so fortunate in the next fight," Lin Yi replied.

"That's still impressive."

Kiyoko Aura wasn't overly surprised. The CCG could withhold information about Jörmungandr from lower-ranked members, but as a Special Class Investigator, she had many channels to gather information.

After a brief conversation, they realized they weren't very familiar with each other. Kiyoko Aura praised Lin Yi for his promising future and took her leave.

Lin Yi then sought out Shinohara.

"I had this scene in my mind the first time I met you, but I didn't expect it to happen so soon. In just half a year, you've surpassed me," Shinohara couldn't help but sigh. When he first met Lin Yi and learned that he had single-handedly fought and killed an A-rated Ghoul, he knew that Lin Yi was a natural investigator. He would undoubtedly become a Special Class in the future.

"Isn't it a good thing? It shows your keen insight," Lin Yi shrugged.

"Since when did you start complimenting others? That's unlike you, Lin Yi," Shinohara laughed and patted Lin Yi's shoulder. "Let's go. I'll introduce you to some acquaintances. We'll be working together in the future."

Lin Yi nodded.

Yoshitoki Washuu had assigned several Rank 2 and Rank 1 Investigators to assist Shinohara and him. Naturally, it was Shinohara's responsibility to manage these matters.

"Acquaintances?" Lin Yi was momentarily taken aback, not expecting to have acquaintances within the CCG.

As he followed Shinohara into the elevator and entered the meeting room, he finally understood who the so-called acquaintances were.

There were Akira Mado and Koutarou Amon.

However, unlike the original story, Amon didn't know Akira. She only knew that Amon used to be a subordinate of her father. So after exchanging greetings with Amon, Akira didn't pay her any more attention.

Akira's outfit that day caught Lin Yi's eye.

With soft blond hair tied back with a hairband, well-defined eyebrows, and a touch of light makeup, she appeared even more charming and radiant. Her black uniform with a deep red short tie accentuated her well-proportioned figure, especially her long, alluring legs in black stockings that were irresistible.

"Ms. Akira, you look beautiful today in this outfit," Lin Yi complimented without hesitation.

Not only were the people in the room astonished, even Shinohara himself didn't expect it. The usually composed Akira blushed slightly and lowered her head.

The young man with orange hair beside her couldn't believe his eyes.

He was Seidou Takizawa, a Rank 2 Investigator and a fellow student of Akira Mado. However, from their time in school until now, as they became Investigators, Akira had always been one step ahead of him.

He thought he could make a name for himself during this mission, but he never expected Akira to be acquainted with someone as prominent as Lin Yi.

"Thank you for the compliment, Special Class Lin Yi."

"Oh, I thought I needed to introduce you, but it seems like you're already quite familiar," Shinohara teased.

"Special Class Lin Yi used to be my father's partner," Akira casually explained.

At that moment, Amon also stood up and saluted Lin Yi.

"Special Class Lin Yi, Koutarou Amon, I greet you!"

Everyone then realized and greeted him.

Lin Yi waved his hand, signaling them not to be too formal.

Apart from Amon, Akira, and Takizawa, Shinohara's subordinate, Juuzou Suzuya, was also present.

"I'm not good at summaries, so I'll let Mr. Shinohara explain the mission and the current intelligence in the 20th ward," Lin Yi directly handed over the task to Shinohara.

He didn't refuse and began to talk about the mission and summarize the available intelligence in the 20th ward.

Akira truly possessed the instincts of an Investigator.

Based on the limited data and intelligence from the CCG, she deduced that Rize Kamishiro was already deceased and speculated that there should be a ghoul organization operating within the 20th ward. However, she didn't deduce that Rize Kamishiro was actually killed by another organization and that the organization in the 20th ward was not the Aogiri Tree.

Considering the limited information available, her deductions were already remarkable.