The money pouch was made of dark brown leather, its surface finely polished and its edges reinforced with delicate hemp thread.
Its opening used a sturdy drawstring threaded through holes and tied shut.
The knot was intricate and ingenious. This design made it easy to open quickly, yet difficult for outsiders to untie, ensuring the safety of the gold coins inside.
The pouch alone was probably worth several silver coins.
Gao De hurriedly picked up the money pouch and untied its opening. Inside, it was lined with a layer of soft wool fabric.
This design reduced the sound of gold coins clinking against one another while also protecting the coins from scratches or corrosion.
Several hundred Sien Gold Coins lay quietly inside the pouch, gleaming with golden light and making Gao De's eyes shine.
Their satisfying weight was even more reassuring.
"Three hundred Sien Gold Coins. Count them carefully. Don't come back afterward claiming there weren't enough—I won't acknowledge it," Oliver said flatly.
Gao De gave an embarrassed smile. "How could I possibly distrust you?"
Gao De poured out the gold coins from the pouch and carefully counted them twice before putting them back inside.
After stuffing the money pouch into his pocket, Gao De took out the Arcane Box he had prepared long ago and handed it to Oliver. "What you wanted."
Oliver's eyes brightened slightly as he accepted the Arcane Box. Then he gripped it hard with his right hand, trying to open it—just as Gao De had done before. He knew it would not open, yet he still had to try.
Once he confirmed that the Arcane Box could not be opened, Oliver gave up and lightly shook it.
A rustling sound came from within the Arcane Box, like fine sand slipping down.
After listening to the