Qiao Ruidu nodded politely to Zhao Monong. "Mr. Zhao, long time no see." His demeanor radiated the refined composure of a noble heir.
Zhao Monong eyed him coldly, his gaze sharpening as it landed on the man behind Qiao Ruidu. "Yang Dalin," he said, his tone edged with suspicion. "What brings you to my domain?"
Jason followed Zhao's stare. A Level 10 Hybrid player stood behind Qiao Ruidu—Yang Tailin, his name plate glaring like a warning. The crowd around them parted instinctively.
"Intrigued by your 'hospitality,' I brought a newbie to grind stones," Yang Tailin replied, his voice smooth as silk.
Zhao Monong's smile tightened. "Anglejaw is a city of rules. Your 'hospitality' reeks of trespass."
Qiao Ruidu interjected, "He's just here to test his luck. No need to overcomplicate."
Back in their rented room, Jason slammed his fist against the wall. "We're screwed. Three major guilds want us dead."
Bai Er sharpened his dagger, his mask glinting. "Let them try."
"You're delusional," Jason snapped. "That brat Qiao Ruidu—"
"Save the bile," Bai Er interrupted. "Focus on the mission."
A knock rattled the door. Zhao Monong stood framed in the doorway, flanked by two enforcers. "You've overstayed your welcome," he said. "Choose: leave now, or join the dead."
Jason lunged for his mace, but Bai Er grabbed his wrist. "Play along," he whispered.
The trio trudged through Dongmulianxie, the wind slicing through their coats like knives.
"We're sitting ducks here," Jason grumbled, eyeing the snow-covered huts.
"Safer than Angeljaw," Bai Er retorted. "Unless you crave a knife in the back."
At the inn, Jason collapsed onto a lumpy mattress. "We need a plan. Marking a city costs 5,000 credits. We're screwed."
Bai Er tossed him a healing potion. "Sleep. Tomorrow, we hunt."
Qiao Ruidu's laughter echoed in Jason's skull. "You think you're a big shot? You're just a gutter rat."
Jason's fists clenched. "You talk too much."
"Careful," Qiao Ruidu sneered. "Your pet mute might enjoy watching you die."
Bai Er's dagger flashed. Qiao Ruidu danced back, his eyes gleaming. "Go on. Kill me. Then beg Yang Tailin to save your whore of a brother."
Jason's mace connected with Qiao's ribs, but the hybrid laughed. "Still predictable, little brother."