Chapter 342: Direct Confrontation

Goodwin maintained a gentle smile, saying, “Seranthiel fully supports this initiative. Adding arrays to the Mozambi slums to improve living conditions will enhance our reputation in Silvermoon City and Seranthiel.”

“Seranthiel offers 300 contribution points for this task, a generous reward.”

Helag was puzzled by Franz’s intentions.

Adding arrays to improve slum conditions?

He didn’t believe a word of it.

Franz must have another motive, but Helag couldn’t discern it.

Luring him to the slums to kill him?

Unlikely, as Franz approached him openly, with a task linked to Seranthiel.

Choosing an open approach meant Franz wouldn’t attack him in the slums.

In both the Land of Dawn and the Barren Land, many unwritten rules existed.

Seranthiel must be aware of the slums’ issues and Franz’s dubious nature.

Yet, both sides maintained a peaceful facade.

At least publicly, relations were cordial.

If Franz wanted Helag dead, he’d have acted secretly.

By choosing open contact, Franz adhered to the rules.

Franz, having survived in Silvermoon City for years, wouldn’t break the rules.

The task was essentially Franz commissioning Seranthiel, who then assigned it to Helag.

If Franz killed Helag during an official task, he’d disrespect Seranthiel and violate basic rules.

Understanding this, Helag asked, “What are the specific requirements?”

Supported by Asil, Franz approached, smiling, “The task is complex, requiring water purification arrays and protective arrays in key areas, like food storage, which often faces theft. There’s much to do, so you’ll need to visit and discuss details.”

Helag thought, “As expected, they want me in the slums. What’s their goal?”

He replied, “Yes, it seems complex, requiring a site visit.”

Helag reasoned that since they’d approached him openly, he needn’t hide.

He wasn’t afraid of direct contact, only covert attacks.

Abyssal cultists were everywhere in Silvermoon City; a sudden attack could be devastating.

Rather than constantly guarding against them, Helag preferred confronting them to discern their intentions.

Franz nodded, “Good, good. Let us know when you’re ready, and we’ll welcome you.”

After discussing the timing, Franz, supported by Asil, left.

Goodwin kept Helag behind, his usual smile fading, “Helag, be cautious when dealing with them in Mozambi. They won’t harm you, as you represent Seranthiel, but be careful.”

Feigning ignorance, Helag said, “The slums shouldn’t be problematic, just a bit messy.”

“I can’t explain, but stay vigilant,” Goodwin advised.

Helag nodded thoughtfully, “Thank you for the warning, President.”

He understood Goodwin’s meaning.

Goodwin thought Helag was unaware of the slums’ issues and warned him to be cautious.

Goodwin clearly knew the slums’ problems and Franz’s nature.

Since Helag was on an official Seranthiel task, safety was assured, which is why Goodwin allowed it.

Helag appreciated Goodwin’s concern; he didn’t have to warn him but did.

The visit to the Mozambi slums was set for two days later, giving Helag time to prepare.

Though unlikely to face mortal danger, he expected trouble.

Franz likely didn’t know he’d been exposed, assuming Helag was unaware of his cultist status.

Franz might attempt covert actions, like marking or monitoring him.

Control tactics were possible, slowly manipulating him.

Helag suspected these were Franz’s true aims.

Franz wouldn’t rush to kill him, nor attack during an official visit.

He likely sought to control Helag, extracting information before disposing of him.

Understanding this, Helag prepared to avoid being caught off guard.

***

Two days later.

Helag took a carriage to the Mozambi slums.

This time, he didn’t disembark at Hogland Street but went directly to the slums.

No disguise was needed; he could openly visit.

Upon arrival, the scene was unchanged: trash and sewage everywhere.

A foul stench wafted in the familiar air.

Helag frowned slightly, contacting Franz via communication stone: “Mr. Franz, I’m in Mozambi.”

The stone quickly responded: “Good, please wait. Asil will meet you.”

Within two minutes, Asil appeared, expressionless, “Let’s go.”

Asil turned, leading the way with indifference, seemingly disregarding Helag.

“Unfriendly,” Helag mused, following Asil into the slums.