However, Ling Li's supposed friends were in utter chaos. The news updates continued to pour in relentlessly, day after day, for weeks, each headline more shocking than the last:

"The Chinese President has emerged completely unharmed from the terrifying attempt on his life…"

"In an incredible turn of events, the largest car manufacturer in Europe has made the heartbreaking decision to close its plant permanently…"

"A shocking revelation has emerged: the son of the current President has been apprehended for involvement in drug trafficking…"

"The government's joint multi-billion project investor has unexpectedly withdrawn their support…"

Ling Li remained indifferent, ignoring the countless calls and messages flooding her phone. She was focused, her mind set on the bigger picture.

Mushu's phone constantly rang and buzzed with calls and messages from concerned individuals seeking appointments with Ling Li. However, Ling Li remained unwavering in her determination to warn them. She knew that timing was everything.

Ling Li and Shi Min had carefully planned everything, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. She requested Shi Min's presence before the celebration. The tension was palpable, but Ling Li's resolve was unshakable. She was ready to execute her plan with precision and ensure that her message was received loud and clear.

Shi Min had to leave Russia the next day.

Three months later, Ling Li called Mushu to her office for an update. "How is the training?" she asked, her tone both curious and commanding.

"Everything seems good," Mushu replied confidently. "The trainees are learning martial arts from Reginald and Pharsa, and their shooting skills have greatly improved. They've also picked up basic sword techniques."

Ling Li nodded, pleased. "And Murphy?"

"I've asked Murphy to rejoin the training. He's completed all required therapy, and as long as he doesn't carry anything heavy, he'll be fine," Mushu added.

"That's great to hear. How is Goldie?" Ling Li inquired a hint of amusement in her voice.

"You won't believe how good he is. You'll be surprised," Mushu said with a wink.

Ling Li's curiosity was piqued. "Bring him in," she said with a chuckle.

Moments later, Goldie entered the room, his face lighting up when he saw Ling Li. "My Queen! My Queen!" he yelled excitedly.

"Hello, Goldie, nice to see you," Ling Li acknowledged him warmly.

"My Queen, I thought you had forgotten about Goldie!"

"No, no, no. I could never forget Goldie. So, are you doing well?" she asked.

"Yes! Goldie has learned well," he replied happily, clasping his hands together.

"Very well, it's showtime. Mushu, let's play," Ling Li said. "Call Reginald to join us."

Soon, they were all gathered around a poker table, with Reginald acting as the dealer.

"Let's play poker! Goldie, show me what you've learned," Ling Li said, her eyes twinkling with anticipation.

"Feed me first," Goldie said, giving her a puppy-eyed look.

Ling Li laughed heartily. "Ha ha ha ha. Tod, how could we forget his muffins? Go get his muffins," she instructed.

Tod, a young trainee chosen by Mushu to follow Goldie around, smiled and shook his head before leaving the room. He returned shortly with a tray of muffins.

"He eats that much?" Ling Li asked, surprised.

"It can't run out in the middle of the game," Tod replied with a light laugh.

"Mushu, you must check Goldie's health if he keeps eating this many muffins," Ling Li said with concern. "I don't want another heart attack in my team."

"Don't worry, it's all organic, and I check him frequently myself," Mushu assured her.

"Yes! My muffins!" Goldie exclaimed, grabbing one and popping it into his mouth. "Let's play!" he yelled. "I'm ready, my queen."

"Sure you are! Draw the card, Reginald," Ling Li instructed.

As they played, everyone was amused by Goldie's wit and skill. He would raise his finger if he didn't want more cards, point his finger down if Goldie wanted another, and throw away the cards he didn't need, all while munching on muffins.

They played several rounds, and Goldie showcased his newly learned skills, much to Ling Li's satisfaction.

"Well done, Goldie. You are now ready for a mission," Ling Li said, tapping his shoulder.

Early the next morning, Ling Li summoned everyone to her study. Standing before her were Four Eyes, Shun, Fatty, and Chatty.

Shi Min, Ling Li's son who had just arrived in the country for work the day before, stepped into the room, his presence immediately drawing everyone's attention. Ling Li's eyes momentarily softened before she steeled herself, her voice carrying a weight that silenced the murmurs.

"Shi Min, it is good you are back. All of you listen; a significant person wants to meet you all. But I won't be going with you," Ling Li said in a somber tone, her eyes reflecting a mix of concern and determination.

Shi Min's curiosity was piqued, but he couldn't ignore the worry etched on his mother's face. "Mom, you sound very worried. Who is it?" Shi Min asked, his voice tinged with both curiosity and concern.

Ling Li's expression softened, revealing a rare vulnerability. "I'm not only worried. I'm also afraid to let you go without me," she admitted, her brows knitting together.

Four Eyes, who had been fidgeting impatiently, could no longer contain himself. "Who is it? Why can't you come?" he demanded, his eyes fixed on Ling Li's anxious face.

Ling Li took a deep breath, her shoulders sagging slightly as she exhaled. "It's… Otako," she said with a heavy sigh.

The name sent a ripple of shock through the room. "What?!" they almost jolted upon hearing the name.

Shi Min's disbelief was palpable. "Why does Otako want to meet us? And why can't you come?" he asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

Ling Li held up a letter, her hands trembling slightly. "I don't have any idea. This morning, I just got this letter, and it specifically said, 'Ling Li can't join the meeting,'" she explained, her voice steady but her eyes betraying her worry.

Four Eyes leaned forward, his skepticism evident. "How do you know the letter is authentic?" he asked.

Shi Min nodded in agreement. "Mom, are you sure it is from Otako? Paps is correct; how can we be sure it is authentic?" he questioned, his concern mirroring Four Eyes'.

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