The Mysterious Transaction of the Black-robed Man
With a measure of vigilance, Lin Li entered the reception hall. The Black-robed Man stood quietly there, as if merging with the darkness. Folding his arms across his chest, Lin Li gave a faint, mocking smile and spoke, "You hide your head and tail, yet think a mere token entitles you to an audience with me. You certainly hold yourself in high regard. State your business; what brings you here?"
Like a Ghost, the Black-robed Man slowly raised his head. His voice sounded as though it came from the depths of the netherworld—low and sinister. "I have heard that you possess a wondrous System capable of accomplishing many baffling feats. I find this quite intriguing and wish to strike a deal with you."
Shock washed over Lin Li. The matter of the System had always been a closely guarded secret, yet this Black-robed Man knew everything. Nevertheless, his face still wore a cynical smile. "Oh? You are certainly well-informed. But on what grounds do you presume to trade with me? What treasures do you possess that could possibly tempt me?"
With an effortless flick of his sleeve, the Black-robed Man placed a crystal upon the table, radiating multicolored light like the most brilliant star in the night sky. The flickering light seemed to contain endless energy, dazzling and mesmerizing the beholder. "This is a 'Spirit Source Crystal'. It can help you rapidly elevate your System's level, shooting up like a rocket to break through your current shackles."
Lin Li narrowed his eyes, appearing tempted. "This is somewhat interesting. Tell me your terms."
A cold smile tugged at the corner of the Black-robed Man's mouth, sounding like the screech of a Yexiao. "Help me deal with an organization. Once the deed is done, there will be even greater rewards."
Lin Li pondered inwardly. This Black-robed Man was like a horned dragon in a deep pool of unknown origin; rashly agreeing would likely plunge him into an endless trap. The corners of his mouth curved upward into a cunning smile, resembling that of a fox. "Deal with what organization? Tell me about it first. If the difficulty is too high, this bit of compensation won't be enough."
Seeing that Lin Li had not directly refused, the Black-robed Man felt a measure of reassurance. His voice remained low and eerie, like a fiend from hell. "The target is the 'Shadow Council', a colossal organization hidden in the darkness. They attempt to control the entire underworld through cruel methods and secretive deeds, chilling the soul like specters. I share an irreconcilable blood feud with them."
Lin Li raised an eyebrow with a mocking half-smile. "'Shadow Council'? What kind of mysterious organization is that? I have never even heard of it! It sounds formidable indeed. With just the strength of the two of us, can we really contend with them?"
The Black-robed Man let out a cold snort from his nose, as if full of disdain for Lin Li's doubt. "Hmph, do not forget that you possess the powerful aid of the System, and I am not entirely isolated either. I have a powerful faction supporting me from behind. As long as you nod in agreement, with our forces striking from within and without, we will undoubtedly deal a heavy blow to the 'Shadow Council'."
Rubbing his chin, Lin Li feigned hesitation. "The risk here is not small. You have not even revealed your true identity; what if I help you only to find you casting me aside the moment we cross the bridge?"
After a moment of silence, the Black-robed Man slowly lowered his hood, revealing a thin yet resolute face marred by a fierce scar. "My name is Yexiao. I was once a member of the 'Shadow Council', but because I refused to participate in their evil plans, I was hunted down to this place."
A tremor ran through Lin Li's heart; this Yexiao did not look to be lying. Yet he still put on a reluctant front. "Very well. For the sake of this 'Spirit Source Crystal', I provisionally agree. But let this be understood: if things turn sour, I am walking away immediately."
Yexiao nodded, a flash of ruthlessness crossing his eyes. "As long as you keep your promise, I will not treat you unfairly."