Eric didn't stay at the border—once matters concluded there, he returned to the country with Pierce and Ruth.

The negotiation affairs were handled by high-level officials from the Combat Department, making Pierce unnecessary.

-

Back in Salt City.

Eric messaged Sylvia, notifying her that the border issue was resolved and he intended to visit her. Believing it was nighttime where Sylvia was, Eric patiently awaited a response.

However, by the afternoon, there was still no reply from Sylvia. Eric couldn't reach her by phone, sparking a sense of unease.

Seated in his car, Eric started the engine and called Grace.

Eric said, "Mom, have you contacted Vince or Matthew recently? I can't reach them."

"Eric, wait a moment. Let me reach out to them," Grace replied.

After a while, Grace called again, expressing confusion, "It's strange. I can't reach either of them. This shouldn't be happening!"

"Did something happen?" Eric asked.

"Don't talk nonsense!" Grace retorted, "I'm sure they're