Chapter 26: The Hunt Begins

With his spear and sword skills perfected, Li Wei knew it was time to gather intelligence on Angel Gene and prepare for his revenge. He began by returning to the city, slipping into the shadows of its bustling streets. Disguised in simple clothes and a hood that concealed his features, he moved unnoticed among the crowds, always alert and vigilant.

Li Wei's first step was to identify key locations tied to Angel Gene's operations. He frequented seedy bars and underground clubs where information flowed freely among criminals and lowlifes. Using his stealth skills, he eavesdropped on conversations, piecing together snippets of intel that hinted at Angel Gene's hidden facilities and key personnel.

He also tapped into the city's digital underbelly, hacking into databases and surveillance systems to gather more concrete data. His background as an elite assassin and hacker served him well; within a few weeks, he had compiled a detailed dossier on Angel Gene's main labs, warehouses, and offices. He also identified several high-ranking members who played crucial roles in their operations.

Through his surveillance, Li Wei learned of a high-security lab where the most heinous experiments were conducted. This lab, hidden beneath a seemingly innocuous corporate office building, was heavily guarded and fortified. Access was restricted to only the highest echelons of Angel Gene's hierarchy.

Li Wei also discovered the identities of several scientists and executives who were directly involved in the experiments that had tormented him. Their names and faces became etched in his memory, each one a target for his retribution. Among them was Dr. Marcus Klein, the lead scientist responsible for the biochip implantation and countless other atrocities.

As he gathered more information, Li Wei began to formulate a plan. He couldn't take down Angel Gene with brute force alone; he needed to be strategic, striking at their weakest points while remaining undetected. He mapped out his approach, identifying the best times to infiltrate their facilities and the optimal escape routes.

One evening, as he reviewed his notes in a dimly lit apartment he had rented under a false name, Li Wei received a message on his burner phone. It was from an anonymous source claiming to have insider information on Angel Gene. The message instructed him to meet at a secluded location in the city's industrial district.

Despite his caution, Li Wei decided to take the risk. He arrived at the rendezvous point, a deserted warehouse, and waited in the shadows. After a few tense minutes, a figure emerged from the darkness. It was a woman, her face hidden beneath a hood similar to his own.

"I'm called Raven," she said softly, her voice carrying a note of urgency. "I've been watching you. I know what you're planning, and I can help."

Li Wei studied her carefully. Trusting strangers was not in his nature, but he sensed no deception in her words. "Why would you help me?" he asked.

"Because I have my own reasons to see Angel Gene destroyed," Raven replied, her eyes flashing with determination. "They took everything from me. I know their operations inside and out. Together, we can bring them down."

After a moment of contemplation, Li Wei nodded. "Fine. But if you betray me, I'll end you."

Raven smirked. "Fair enough. Let's get to work."