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Chapter 11: Impersonation
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2024-10-29 19:42:56Related chapters
Zero-sum game Chapter 12: Interrogation
"Why are you here?" they exclaimed in unison. John Smith and Ethan Winters squeezed into a narrow gap next to them, only wide enough for one person, pressing against the containers while keeping an eye on their surroundings.John whispered, "Got a tip this afternoon that a small batch of arms from 'The Circle' could be intercepted here, so the team leader sent me to check it out.""Whose tip?" Ethan inquired."From our mole inside 'The Circle.' You know how unreliable that could be, so I had to come see for myself."John, standing closer to the outside, kept peering out as he explained. "And you? The team leader didn't mention you'd be here.""It's a long story; let's focus on getting out first," Ethan quickly sifted through John's words."But if the police already knew, why involve the joint task force?""I found that odd too. Took down two on my way here; their tactics felt off, not like real cops."Ethan hadn't directly confronted these "cops" and hadn't noticed this detail.John's
Zero-sum game Chapter 13: Introduction
Ethan Winters appeared to be deeply asleep on the desk, but in reality, he hadn't fallen asleep yet. This was a deliberate arrangement by Alexander Reed; until Alexander showed up, Ethan couldn't be sure he had successfully passed the test. The control room was not far from this container, and it only took Alexander and Michael Turner a couple of minutes to arrive by car.Michael entered intending to wake Ethan but was stopped by Alexander, "Let him sleep."While preventing Michael from approaching, Alexander himself went over to Ethan, lifted him from the chair with ease, and walked out in a few strides, with Michael following behind.Ethan, seizing a moment when Alexander was less attentive, opened his eyes slightly to see who was carrying him. The sight of Alexander's profile surprised him yet also brought some relief. This indicated he had passed the scrutiny.Alexander carefully arranged Ethan's legs on the back seat of the sedan, and because Ethan couldn't lay down completely, A
Zero-sum game Chapter 1: Operation
The zero-sum game, a concept in game theory, implies that in any situation involving two or more players, one player's gain is exactly balanced by the losses of the other player(s). Thus, the total sum of gains and losses among participants is always "zero," eliminating any possibility of cooperation.The streets were lined with trees, casting dappled shadows on the ground as the brilliant sunshine peeked through the leaves.A black Lincoln was parked by the curb, with the occasional pedestrian strolling by on the sidewalk. It seemed like an ordinary day, except for the two bodyguards in dark suits standing conspicuously in front of the Lincoln.From a distance, a little boy, bouncing joyfully with a basketball not much bigger than a tennis ball, made his way towards the car, followed by a woman who kept reminding him loudly, "Slow down, watch where you're going! Be careful not to fall! Hold onto the ball tightly, don’t lose it!"While the passersby could hear her warnings, the boy co
Zero-sum game Chapter 2: Failure
Joint Operations Unit, Special Task Force.The mood in the conference room, where six members were gathered, was grim."What happened?" The man speaking, a middle-aged individual named John Avery, was the leader of the Special Task Force and also the direct boss of Ethan Reed.After a brief silence, the person seated next to Ethan, named Alex Johnson, spoke, "I can confirm that Michael Chase did get on the car." He was the one observing with binoculars from a high-rise."I'm also certain that Michael didn't leave the car before we reached the mountain roads," continued Chris Martin, who had been tailing Michael's vehicle.Ethan then detailed what he observed in the car: "Based on the tracker, the car didn't stop after it entered the mountain roads."The woman, who had disguised herself as a mother on the street, had removed her makeup, appearing several years younger, her eyes no longer filled with faux innocence. If not for the distinct facial features, it would be difficult to assoc
Zero-sum game Chapter 3: Infiltration
Ethan Reed had thoroughly reviewed Michael Chase's file. Normally, Chase was accompanied by four bodyguards, indicating tight security measures. Ironically, the day he had only two guards was due to his attendance at a charity event for disabled children.Charity work, it seemed, didn't lend itself to an intimidating security presence. Unfortunately, no matter how commendable his public actions, they couldn't mask his burgeoning ambitions and desires.The dossier also revealed that Chase's most frequented locations were the Global Dynamics Corporation Tower and his residential villa.The villa, heavily guarded and with limited access, was quickly dismissed by Reed as a viable option due to the high difficulty of escape.That left the Corporation Tower. Reed had already acquired the internal layout of the building, but penetrating the heart of Global Dynamics was not going to be straightforward.Moreover, given the potential betrayal of their inside man at Global Dynamics, any direct i
Zero-sum game Chapter 4: Identity
After returning, Ethan Reed was summoned by John Avery for a private discussion. Without preliminaries, Avery stated, "Plans have changed. Michael Chase is temporarily off the hit list."He then explained the reason, "Our inside man has sent word that Global Dynamics' new weapon is nearing completion. In a few months to a year, they'll have tangible results. Global Dynamics plans to gather major buyers to appraise their creation, and the true power behind the corporation will be present. That's our chance to take them all down in one fell swoop. If we eliminate Chase now, we might lose this opportunity."Reed expressed his doubts, "Is the insider's information reliable, or is this just a stalling tactic?"Avery admitted, "We can't be certain," and turned on the screen mounted on the wall. "I've pulled up surveillance footage from your last operation. Watch here."He fast-forwarded the video, then played a segment showing the black Lincoln at a stoplight with Chase's vehicle in the cen
Zero-sum game Chapter 5: Shooting
Michael Turner followed Alexander Reed's instructions, meticulously revisiting Ethan Winters' background inside and out once more.Days later, he handed all the gathered information over to Alexander Reed."Here are the accident reports and death certificates of Ethan Winters' parents, all his enrollment records, entry and exit documents, and any activity records that are still verifiable," Michael Turner concluded, handing over the stack of documents."One could say his life story is complete without gaps. Apart from proving that he's a genuine wealthy second generation, I can't see anything wrong." Alexander Reed skimmed through the documents hastily before setting them aside.He didn't doubt Michael Turner's capabilities; if Michael couldn't find any issues, then there likely weren't any."But this doesn't explain the calluses on his shooting hand," Michael frowned slightly."Yes," Reed agreed. "His timing is too coincidental. Just days ago, someone was after my life, and suddenly,
Zero-sum game Chapter 6: Suspicion
Ethan Winters felt a cold sweat form in his palm. In such a situation, even if Alexander Reed was serious, he had to act as though he wasn't.Ethan managed a strained smile, "Mr. Reed, with real guns and live ammunition, please be careful of accidental discharge."The current situation was far from humorous.Reed held the gun steady, scrutinizing the minute changes in Ethan's facial expressions. Speaking less to avoid mistakes, Ethan stood silently, letting the gunpoint remain aimed at him.After what felt like an eternity but was only about ten seconds, Reed suddenly lowered his arm and turned to fire three shots at his own target—one hitting the bullseye and the other two scoring nine points.Each shot mirrored the placement of Ethan's shots perfectly, as if the two targets could overlap entirely. Reed set down the handgun, a slight smirk on his lips, "It looks like we're even."On the day at the shooting range, Reed did not provide Ethan with a definitive answer regarding their pot
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Zero-sum game Chapter 13: Introduction
Ethan Winters appeared to be deeply asleep on the desk, but in reality, he hadn't fallen asleep yet. This was a deliberate arrangement by Alexander Reed; until Alexander showed up, Ethan couldn't be sure he had successfully passed the test. The control room was not far from this container, and it only took Alexander and Michael Turner a couple of minutes to arrive by car.Michael entered intending to wake Ethan but was stopped by Alexander, "Let him sleep."While preventing Michael from approaching, Alexander himself went over to Ethan, lifted him from the chair with ease, and walked out in a few strides, with Michael following behind.Ethan, seizing a moment when Alexander was less attentive, opened his eyes slightly to see who was carrying him. The sight of Alexander's profile surprised him yet also brought some relief. This indicated he had passed the scrutiny.Alexander carefully arranged Ethan's legs on the back seat of the sedan, and because Ethan couldn't lay down completely, A
Zero-sum game Chapter 12: Interrogation
"Why are you here?" they exclaimed in unison. John Smith and Ethan Winters squeezed into a narrow gap next to them, only wide enough for one person, pressing against the containers while keeping an eye on their surroundings.John whispered, "Got a tip this afternoon that a small batch of arms from 'The Circle' could be intercepted here, so the team leader sent me to check it out.""Whose tip?" Ethan inquired."From our mole inside 'The Circle.' You know how unreliable that could be, so I had to come see for myself."John, standing closer to the outside, kept peering out as he explained. "And you? The team leader didn't mention you'd be here.""It's a long story; let's focus on getting out first," Ethan quickly sifted through John's words."But if the police already knew, why involve the joint task force?""I found that odd too. Took down two on my way here; their tactics felt off, not like real cops."Ethan hadn't directly confronted these "cops" and hadn't noticed this detail.John's
Zero-sum game Chapter 11: Impersonation
Alexander Reed lightly patted Michael Turner's chest in commendation, then settled into the chair reserved for him.With his right leg crossed over his left, he focused intently on the screen that showed Ethan Winters—Ethan and the bodyguard who had provided cover for him were now taking refuge behind a crane, with any attempt to peek out quickly suppressed by gunfire.Ethan, unarmed, was stuck in a defensive position, hesitant to make a move.The coincidence and timing of the police's arrival suggested an informant.Ethan was certain it wasn't him; he wouldn't jeopardize his long-term plans for a short-term gain, especially when he had finally gotten close to the arms dealings of "The Circle."Could it have been an undercover agent from the joint task force?As Ethan dodged bullets, he covertly observed the reactions of the surrounding bodyguards.Unsure of how many were aware of today's arrangement within "The Circle," he considered everyone directly involved to be suspects.The sta
Zero-sum game Chapter 10: Business
Although the arms dealing of "The Circle" was carried out in secrecy, the primary entity from which the secret was kept was the government; within the circle, however, it was an open secret.Few dared to tamper with it despite many being aware of it. Most of those in the know kept to themselves, attending to their own affairs without interfering with others.Alexander Reed had no intention of skulking or concealing the matter. He broached the subject with a double entendre, "This business isn't something I can agree to just by sharing a bed with you."Ethan Winters was not pleased with Alexander's attitude, "I thought I had demonstrated sufficient sincerity.""Sincerity?" Alexander scoffed, "Your demeanor has been so inconsistent in my presence, how do you expect me to believe in your sincerity?"Ethan slammed his coffee cup down on the table, "My current attitude should be proof enough of my sincerity."Alexander adjusted the cuffs of his suit, "So, you're admitting that your previou
Zero-sum game Chapter 9: Return
As soon as Ethan Winters left and closed the door behind him, Alexander Reed's eyes opened, revealing no trace of sleepiness. He methodically got out of bed, summoned a servant to tidy up the room, and then, donning a bathrobe, headed for a shower.Reed had been awake all night and felt weary, needing to wash off the remnants of the night and indulge in some rest. The "important meeting" he had mentioned was nothing but a spur-of-the-moment excuse.After showering and about to use the hairdryer, a polite knock sounded at the door. "Boss," called a voice from outside.Reed didn't open the door, instead asking through the wall, "Has he gone back?"The servant outside responded respectfully, "Yes, as per your instructions, we've sent him back in a company car."Reed, looking at his reflection in the mirror and smoothing his hair, inquired, "How did he look?""Pale, and his movements were a bit off. He didn't eat the breakfast prepared for him, just asked to be taken back immediately."Re
Zero-sum game Chapter 8: Debauchery
"What did you put in the drink!?" Ethan Winters feigned ignorance as he confronted Alexander Reed.Reed stood tall, looking down at Ethan, "Nothing special. We're both adults here; you should know what it was."Ethan scorned, "The CEO of The Circle, resorting to such lowly tactics.""I did it for your benefit," Reed replied leisurely. "You wanted to collaborate with The Circle, didn't you? I'm offering you the opportunity, even providing an excuse for you. A little drug won't harm your pride; you can blame everything on its effects. Besides, my door is not locked; if you're unwilling, I can have someone take you back right now. Then you can vent on someone else, no problem at all."Reed's reasoning was oddly rational, presenting Ethan with a dilemma.This type of drug, more common than others, posed the most challenging situation. If Reed had merely drugged him to extract the truth, Ethan could pretend to be confused and tell a flawless lie. That was his plan. However, the current sit
Zero-sum game Chapter 7: Agreement
Alexander Reed lived in "Blue Coast," a renowned affluent residential area, where he stood out even among the wealthy—his standalone villa was surrounded by a meticulously arranged garden, with no other residences within a kilometer. This, of course, was largely for security reasons.This time, Reed had his driver personally pick up Ethan Winters.The driver, a middle-aged man, courteously opened the car door for Ethan and waited for him to be seated before closing the door and returning to his seat.Ethan attempted to make small talk during the drive, but the man didn’t respond at all, maintaining silence throughout the journey. It seemed that working for Reed required a tight lip.Ethan turned his gaze outside the window as they entered Blue Coast.The car drove for a while before stopping in front of a huge iron gate, which opened automatically after a brief pause. Inside the gate was the garden, occasionally patrolled by bodyguards, whose presence Ethan noted silently.The car dro
Zero-sum game Chapter 6: Suspicion
Ethan Winters felt a cold sweat form in his palm. In such a situation, even if Alexander Reed was serious, he had to act as though he wasn't.Ethan managed a strained smile, "Mr. Reed, with real guns and live ammunition, please be careful of accidental discharge."The current situation was far from humorous.Reed held the gun steady, scrutinizing the minute changes in Ethan's facial expressions. Speaking less to avoid mistakes, Ethan stood silently, letting the gunpoint remain aimed at him.After what felt like an eternity but was only about ten seconds, Reed suddenly lowered his arm and turned to fire three shots at his own target—one hitting the bullseye and the other two scoring nine points.Each shot mirrored the placement of Ethan's shots perfectly, as if the two targets could overlap entirely. Reed set down the handgun, a slight smirk on his lips, "It looks like we're even."On the day at the shooting range, Reed did not provide Ethan with a definitive answer regarding their pot
Zero-sum game Chapter 5: Shooting
Michael Turner followed Alexander Reed's instructions, meticulously revisiting Ethan Winters' background inside and out once more.Days later, he handed all the gathered information over to Alexander Reed."Here are the accident reports and death certificates of Ethan Winters' parents, all his enrollment records, entry and exit documents, and any activity records that are still verifiable," Michael Turner concluded, handing over the stack of documents."One could say his life story is complete without gaps. Apart from proving that he's a genuine wealthy second generation, I can't see anything wrong." Alexander Reed skimmed through the documents hastily before setting them aside.He didn't doubt Michael Turner's capabilities; if Michael couldn't find any issues, then there likely weren't any."But this doesn't explain the calluses on his shooting hand," Michael frowned slightly."Yes," Reed agreed. "His timing is too coincidental. Just days ago, someone was after my life, and suddenly,
