Only their daughter appeared unharmed, but her mental state was very poor. Having lost both parents and with her brother seriously injured, she seemed to have no other recourse but to cry out for help.

Li Ke glanced at the few people around her whose expressions remained unchanged, and silently curled her lips. She could tell that none of them were the type to swallow their anger.

Back at their lodgings, Li Ke casually asked, "Do you know what happened with today's robbers? Did you make some arrangements?"

Xia Ji shook his head: "They are other thugs who are paid to do things, it has nothing to do with us. We will not take action like this before we know more about them."

Li Ke listened without saying anything more, and Xia Ji's gaze swept over Li Ke again: "You were quite impressive today, it's a pity I didn't get to see your heroic figure."

Li Ke met Xia Ji's gaze: "You're not bad either; your methods of killing are equally decisive."

Xia Ji's gaze softened: "Li Ke, being too vigilant is exhausting. Some say life is too short. Have you ever thought about finding a life partner?"

Li Ke looked at him with a teasing expression and asked suspiciously, "Are you trying to use your feminine wiles on me?"

Xia Ji's ears suddenly felt hot. He was no young man and had experienced quite a bit of life, but his sudden reaction to Li Ke was genuine and unintentional.

Xia Ji coughed to ease the awkwardness: "I'm not that kind of person. If I make a promise, I will take it seriously and be responsible to the end."

Now that things had started, Xia Ji spoke frankly. Actually, this wasn't a bad idea. In his opinion, Li Ke would be a very good partner. If they were to get together, and he managed to smooth things over a bit more, the higher-ups probably wouldn't pursue the matter any further.

Li Ke straightened his expression and said, "No need. I'm used to being alone and I don't think about these things. Commander Xia, we're not suitable for each other, and no one is suitable for me."

Upon hearing this, Xia Ji first took a sip of water, then put it down and said, "It's up to you. I never force anyone in matters of the heart."

Li Ke got up to leave, but Xia Ji suddenly spoke up again: "Are you confident in taking over the solar energy mine?"

Li Ke frowned: "Don't you want to know more? You've seen what happened today. If we don't take protective measures, anyone who touches it will die!"

Xia Ji stood up and said seriously to Li Ke, "It was because we saw that scene that we decided to get our hands on this thing."

Seeing the determination in Xia Ji's eyes, Li Ke asked in return, "Where are my people? Rescue them first, I'll figure out a way to deal with this."

"We'll get news soon. Hopefully, you won't let us down once they're safe." Xia Ji began to speak in a businesslike manner.

"Let's talk after I see your results." Li Ke turned and walked towards the door.

Xia Ji sighed softly, then said, "I've already sent out the photos of the black crystal, asking people outside to see if they can find the relevant materials and make a replica as soon as possible. Li Ke, this isn't targeting you; every mission participant faces potential dangers."

Li Ke left without looking back, needing no explanation; she believed Xia Ji's words.