In a city far from Shanghai, a man who appeared to be in his late 50s occupied a vast, dimly lit office. His eyes exuded a cold, soulless demeanor as he sat behind an imposing desk. Standing before him was a subordinate in his 40s, dutifully reporting on a matter of grave concern.
"Sir, it's almost two full weeks now, and Agent 17 has not completed the mission," the subordinate stated with a hint of apprehension in his voice.
The man behind the desk remained stoic, his gaze fixed on some unseen point. After a prolonged silence that hung heavily in the air, he finally responded, his voice carrying the weight of authority.
"Hmm, so."
Undeterred, the subordinate continued, "Sir, I wanted to inform you that I will be dispatching another agent in his place. I know you always told me to notify you if I suspect something with Agent 17. That's why I am here."