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Serval's doubts had not completely dissipated, but... she knew further questioning wouldn't yield any answers.
Thus, she decided to abandon her inquiries.
She also realized she was standing too close to him. Confident in her allure, Serval wanted to avoid deepening the ambiguous atmosphere.
The blonde big sister released her grip on Bochang's shoulder and took a half-step back. Unconsciously tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear, she cautioned, "Regarding Stellaron, be careful with what you discuss in the future to avoid unnecessary trouble... The Architects closely guard information about this topic, so I can't reveal much more. Let's leave it at that."
"Don't worry, my lips are sealed." Bochang nodded, his gaze instinctively shifting away to the side. "Then... boss, if there's nothing else, I'll head back now."
"Alright, you can go now. Remember to be punctual for work tomorrow," Serval smiled and waved her hand gently.
In that moment, her radiant smile was truly captivating. She seemed born to be a star, with every expression drawing attention.
After one last glance at her proud and upright figure...
Bochang turned and left, while Serval watched his departing back without uttering a word.
Regarding the occasional extra second his gaze lingered on her, Serval found it quite normal. If Bochang didn't even spare her a glance when standing before her, she would suspect something amiss.
"For some reason...I feel a slight unease..." Serval pressed her fingers against her forehead.
Meanwhile...
Bochang walked alone on the nighttime streets, feeling a chill as the cold wind cooled down the fervent passion within him gradually.
Daytime and nighttime temperatures in Belobog did have noticeable differences.
Bathed in the glow of streetlights,
After walking for some time, Bochang spotted a figure ahead. The distinctive blue hair immediately revealed the person's identity.
"Sampo, what brings you here?" Bochang halted his steps.
Unlike previous encounters, Bochang wasn't navigating through alleyways this time. Sampo confidently strode down the main street, likely taking advantage of the reduced foot traffic and poorer visibility at night, with fewer Silvermane Guards around.
During daylight hours, Sampo wouldn't have dared to parade so openly on the streets.
As a wanted fugitive, one sighting would inevitably lead to a frantic chase by the Silvermane Guards.
"Ah, how serendipitous! We just happen to cross paths again."
"More like you sought me out," Bochang's lips twitched. He had no intention of beating around the bush, "Get straight to the point; I'm in a hurry."
"Alright, let me get straight to the point, Bochang. Today, I simply wanted to propose a deal."
The corners of Sampo's mouth curved upwards, revealing a smile.
Bochang felt intrigued.
"A deal? What kind of deal?"
Sampo responded, "I've been keeping an eye on your activities around the city these past few days. You're searching for information about Stellaron... Approaching Serval was indeed a correct direction, but... her lips aren't easily pried open. You must have hit a dead end with her, am I right?"
"How does he know this? Dan Heng should have been cautious in his actions, and when I questioned Serval, there's no way Sampo could have been present." Bochang found it peculiar, thinking, "To be able to knock out the entire protagonist group and lead them to the Underworld, he truly isn't ordinary."
"Just tell me the details of the deal," Bochang said, slightly frowning.
Although they were on a busy street, Bochang remained vigilant...
Remaining cautious, Bochang still refrained from getting close to Sampo, maintaining a distance of approximately three meters between them.
"The terms of the deal are simple... You must be aware that the passage to the Underworld has been sealed off in Belobog? If you agree to help unseal the passage, I will assist you in finding information about Stellaron."
"Why do you want to unseal the passage?" Bochang asked, eager to understand these unknown matters.
"Of course, it's because the citizens of the Underworld lead miserable lives. If the Overworld can be considered heaven, then... the Underworld could be likened to hell. So, my reason for wanting to unseal the passage is clear enough, isn't it?" Sampo spread his hands and took a step forward.
This single step heightened Bochang's vigilance. Three Invisible Hands reappeared once more. With a 100% mental energy boost, the hands became more solidified and significantly increased in power.
Bochang nonchalantly replied, "It's enough."
As soon as these three hands appeared,
Sampo froze, then spoke with a relaxed tone, "My friend, there's no need to be so guarded. I come with goodwill and even intend to repay kindness for grievances."
"This guy... indeed noticed the Invisible Hands." Bochang narrowed his eyes slightly. "I've been standing here without moving a muscle, Sampo. Don't make unfounded accusations."
"Come on, buddy, let's not pretend anymore. Although I don't know your method, the malice emanating from you is almost making me feel sick." Sampo pressed his palms together and took two steps backward. "Since stepping forward offended you, how about I retreat two more steps?"
Seeing this, Bochang retracted the Invisible Hands.
After all, they could easily reappear with just a thought if needed.
It was both convenient and efficient.
Moreover, Bochang now had his Spider Sense activated.
If any danger approached, he would undoubtedly detect it.
"Now that's more like it... Listen, buddy, let's discuss business properly; harmony breeds prosperity... Don't resort to violence as a quick solution, Sampo isn't fond of such people."
"I don't particularly care for your approval," Bochang replied, crossing his arms.
Sampo spread out his hands and asked, "So then... have you given it any thought?"
"Your reasons are compelling, but how do you plan to help us find information about Stellaron? And how can I be sure you're not deceiving me? Last time, when you led us to the Underworld to meet you, wasn't that just playing games with us? Everyone in Belobog knows there's no way to reach the Underworld."
Bochang did not trust this individual before him.
Sampo smiled, "Well... you'll find out when the time comes. Rest assured, Sampo won't disappoint you. As a trustworthy merchant, I will definitely help you locate information about Stellaron first before discussing the passage issue. Regarding our previous encounter, it was simply that you didn't approach it correctly."
A moment of silence ensued.
The only sounds around them were the relentless winds.
"The deal you propose, I can consider it. However... this decision is not solely mine to make. I need to consult with my companions first," Bochang responded cautiously.
Sampo nodded, "Fine, I'll give you a night to think it over. Tomorrow... I will come seeking you again."
With those words, Sampo turned to leave.
Bochang spoke up, "Don't you want to provide some means of contact?"
"Don't worry, if Sampo says he'll return tomorrow, he certainly will. There's no need for concern."