What had happened in Sanctuary's council chamber was completely unknown to the many trial-takers staying on the Island of the End.
In fact, when they saw Nisir being led in with a massive two-handed sword held to his neck, the many trial-takers in the underground hall erupted in an uproar.
Some were stunned.
Some could not believe it.
But everyone's gaze turned to the person behind Nisir: Qin Ran!
Solemn scrutiny appeared in the trial-takers' eyes.
Only Shiqi was an exception.
Their sheriff stood up from the corner and waved at Qin Ran.
"Hey, buddy, over here."
At once, some of the trial-takers' gazes were drawn to Shiqi.
Feeling those needle-like stares, Shiqi shrugged, concealing his discomfort, then strode toward Qin Ran, who was walking over after sheathing his sword.
"Long time no see!"
"It's been almost five months, and there hasn't been a word from you!"
"Believe me, if you went back to the West Coast now, Aili would make you pay—she's asked everyone around her about you more than once."
The two men embraced.
Shiqi vigorously patted Qin Ran's back.
Qin Ran immediately returned the favor.
Shiqi instantly bared his teeth in pain and made a threat.
"Is that so?"
"Looks like I'll have to put off my return to the West Coast a little longer!"
Qin Ran said indifferently.
It was not that Qin Ran did not care about Aili Jones.
It was simply that the way he cared was somewhat different.
That made Qin Ran more cautious whenever he responded to Aili Jones.
"Suit yourself. It's your freedom."
Shiqi spread his hands.
As a middle-aged man who was still single, he clearly had no right to offer Qin Ran any substantial advice or guidance.
Thus, their sheriff wisely chose to shut up.
Qin Ran and Shiqi