Giant City, Outer District, unknown area.
Qin Ran met Karls.
The man who had mingled with the crowd at Rachel's Tavern was actually an undercover agent for the Guardians.
Unlike the laid-back air he had worn at their last meeting, Qin Ran could sense his tension even without seeing his face.
Moreover, his T-shirt and jeans were long gone, replaced by something resembling a robe.
It enhances stealth.
Qin Ran glanced over the robe and roughly understood its function.
Clearly, Karls had not been having an easy time.
Or rather, no one showed mercy to traitors, and naturally, that included the Guardians.
"Thank you for coming."
"I sent out a lot of private messages, but you were the only one willing to help me, 2567."
Watching Qin Ran approach, Karls gave a bitter chuckle.
"Help?"
"I only came here to hear more information about the Guardians."
"If that information proves true, I can offer you some help in exchange."
"This is a deal."
"Not a free favor."
Qin Ran stressed the point.
"Even if it's a deal, I'm still glad you came."
Karls did not mind.
"Your situation is even worse than I imagined."
"Actually, staying in your room would be much safer than coming out."
That was what Qin Ran said.
There was a subtle probing edge to his words.
Although he had already checked the surroundings upon arriving and found no ambush, how could Qin Ran let his guard down around a stranger like Karls, especially one who had previously been hostile?
"If I could, I'd definitely stay in my room."
"But now, I can't get back!"
"Otherwise, I wouldn't be staying in the Outer District!"
Karls pointed at the robots in the distance and continued.
"The Guardians have people stationed outside all three of my residences. If