Artificial Eye (10)
Help?
Fu Qian glanced at the speaker.
He looked to be in his forties or fifties, with thinning hair and a haggard face. It was obvious his health wasn't in the best shape.
"Please rest assured, I certainly won't ask you to help for nothing."
When Fu Qian looked over, the man immediately spoke with an earnest expression and introduced himself.
"My name is Shang Shiming. You can confirm my credibility with Roland."
So the reward would be generous?
Fu Qian raised an eyebrow.
"There are so many people here. Why ask a newcomer like me for help?"
"Please don't worry."
As if he had seen through Fu Qian's misgivings, Shang Shiming smiled.
"The ritual itself is very simple and doesn't involve anything dangerous. I certainly won't ask you to kill anyone."
"I think you're suitable because it requires a certain amount of physical strength."
"And, as I said, I won't have you work for nothing. Once it's done, I'll give you a reward according to your needs. That's the principle of our gathering."
"Is that so?"
Fu Qian glanced at Roland.
"I can vouch for him."
Roland's face gave nothing away, but his tone was firm.
"If he really does refuse to pay you, I'll make it up to you myself."
"Then I'm reassured."
Fu Qian looked thoughtful.
"The reward can take any form you want."
Seeing Fu Qian's attitude shift, Shang Shiming hurried to add,
"Materials, items, or equivalent assistance—and..."
He looked Fu Qian up and down.
"Money. You've just received a gift, so I imagine you could still use some."
"That sounds pretty good. I don't think I have any reason to refuse."
Fu Qian finally nodded.
"We can discuss the details later."
"That's great!"
Shang Shiming immediately perked up.
"May I ask..."
At