>>6050251"Yes," Zhang admits finally, "I’ve seen these shipments. It’s true that Bat-Man has received them. He submits paperwork as prisoner transfers, which I’ve signed off on. But not everyone captured is a Chinese citizen, let alone a prisoner."
Super-Man's eyes blaze with intense frustration. "Why would you authorize this, Zhang? Bat-Man is working with criminals! He’s clearly gone rogue!"
The official shifts uncomfortably. "It’s not that simple, Kong. These operations can be authorized by the government. China has long had complex dealings with Triads and criminal organizations for 'patriotic' work—suppressing dissent and influencing overseas Chinese communities."
You listen intently as Zhang continues, explaining the use of Chinese overseas service stations or "Overseas 110" in collaboration with triads and other criminal groups. Their activities are often shielded under the guise of law enforcement and support services for Chinese nationals abroad.
"Despite the official paperwork, some of these detainees are captured through less-than-legal means," Zhang confesses. "Triads often work in tandem with these service stations, exploiting their extralegal status to facilitate various activities—including the detainment and, occasionally, the exploitation of metahumans."
Super-Man clenches his fist, the ground beneath him trembling slightly. The air seems to crackle with tension, and you can feel the mounting anger.
“Why, Zhang? Why would you participate in such corruption? And why wouldn’t you check if Bat-Man is truly doing government work?” Super-Man’s voice is a low growl.
Zhang Wei’s calm demeanor falters, and he takes a step back, his eyes darting around nervously. “Kong, you don’t understand the full picture. The stakes involved here are far beyond what you might think. I didn’t have a choice.”
Super-Man’s eyes narrow, the frustration evident. “That’s not good enough, Zhang. You’re supposed to uphold justice, protect the innocent. Instead, you’re complicit in this—whatever this is. It’s disgraceful!”
Zhang’s face pales, and you can see the fear creeping into his expression. He takes a deep, shaky breath before responding. “Do you think I wanted this? To be caught in the middle of such illegal activities? I have a family, Kong. I have responsibilities. But when the Ministry of Self-Reliance submits paperwork... I... I have no choice. Those who go against the Ministry, or the Party, they lose everything... Sometimes even their lives."
You can see the rage building in the Chinese Super-Man, his superhuman strength barely held in check as the confession hits him hard. Afraid of what he might do in his anger, you place a gentle hand on his shoulder, feeling the energy roiling beneath his skin.
"Super-Man... Kong..." you say softly, using his real name to ground him. "This isn't the way. We need to focus on the bigger picture. Let's stay calm and think this through."
