Conversation

The black-robed man was, of course, Avren.

When he opened the space channel, a little bit of his power leaked to the surrounding. And that little bit caused the hellish pressure that nearly killed Carlos and Vidar.

And that green energy was him utilizing the Law of Life that he comprehended to help them recover.

'He's here!'

Both Vidar and Carlos thought at the same time. Vidar already saw Avren before when he was observing him. As for Carlos, he imprinted Avren's image in his mind. He ordered Vidar to get his file from the other hospital after hearing about his power. He knew he must remember the face of such a powerhouse.

Avren gazed at them silently, giving them time to process what's going on.

A moment later, Carlos summoned up his courage and stepped forward. He cupped his hands and bowed his head slightly.

"Senior Avren. I know we're in the wrong! We have committed a grievous mistake. And we are completely willing to compensate you!"

Carlos spoke while trembling slightly. His teeth kept on clattering.

The man in front of him was at least a Spirit King! There's a chance that he's even higher!

Avren saw his anxious appearance and sighed inwardly. Then he sat down on the couch next to him.

"I want to drink some milk tea, if you don't mind."

"Sorry?"

The old man thought he was growing so old that he was beginning to hallucinate. He looked at Vidar next to him only to find him wearing the same expression.

"Don't be nervous. I already said to this guy that I forgive you back then. I don't intend to go back on my word." Avren spoke leisurely.

Carlos and Vidar looked at each other. If you forgave us then why are you here?! Nonetheless, Carlos sent Vidar to prepare the milk tea. Then he sat down opposite to Avren. Although he was still nervous, it wasn't so much as before.

"Senior Avren. Why have you graced us with your presence?"

Avren looked at him in the eyes in the eyes.

"Don't call me senior. Avren is fine. I know that to Cultivators, only strength is what matters. But I don't feel right when a man older than my grandfather speaks to me in such a subservient manner."

Carlos was surprised by this. This young man seems to be different from most of the cultivators. He almost seemed 'new' to this world. But how could such a powerful person be 'new'?

'Well, I guess he's good natured. That's a relief.' Carlos thought.

"Very well, Mister Avren. Why have you come to visit me today?" Although his way of speaking changed, it was still very polite.

Avren nodded his head and smiled.

"Nothing much really. I just wanted to make sure you won't cause trouble to my family in the future." As he spoke, a dangerous light flashed in Avren's eyes.

Carlos's old body trembled. He quickly shook his head.

"Absolutely not! I only sent Vidar after you because I never saw you before in town. I wanted to make sure that you're not a threat to the people."

Avren nodded his head and smiled lightly.

"So, what do you think?"

"Pardon?" Carlos was confused by his question.

"I am asking whether you think I am a threat to the town or not."

Carlos was startled for a moment before replying: "No. I don't think you are."

Avren nodded lightly.

"That's good. But I am curious. What would have you done if I intended to harm the people of this town?"

Avren was really curious. He wanted to know this old man's bottom line. He wanted to know to what degree was he able to protect this town. After all, this town was his home.

Carlos hesitated for a moment before replying.

"My Hartwin Family has some connections. As long as it's not a Spirit Lord, I can figure something out." His confidence soared when spoke the last part.

The problem is, he wasn't sure of the exact power of the young man sitting in front him.

Carlos's words surprised Avren slightly. This man, who was clearly only a peak-stage Grandmaster, could take care of those below the Spirit Lord Realm?

Unfortunately, he didn't seem to know that there is a peak-stage Spirit Lord staying in town.

Carlos observed Avren's reaction. He sure looked a little surprised but he was totally unfazed. He gulped and asked.

"I wonder if that's enough?"

Avren gazed at him and smiled calmly. He knew exactly what this old man meant by that question. So, he replied honestly.

"It's not enough."

Carlos's body shook. But he regained his cool soon enough. He already knew the answer in his heart. After all, he never heard of anyone traveling through space channels before.

After a while of silence, Vidar came after preparing the milk tea.

As Avren was drinking the milk tea, he thought of something.

"By the way, a week ago when I came to visit my mother, I saw my father speaking to a Chinese man in a suit. It seems my father borrowed some money from him. Do you have any idea who he is?"

Carlos thought for a while before nodding.

"A Chinese man lending money? He should be from the Tiger Gang. Along with the Town Mayor and my Hartwin Family, they are considered one of the three true powers in the town. But you can set your mind at ease. I have some sort of friendly relations with their leader. I will take care of it."

What a joke! The young man in front of him seemed friendly and amiable. But who knows what he would do if the Tiger Gang did something to his father?

Avren thought about it then nodded.

"Ok. I owe you one, Mr. Hartwin."

Carlos looked elated. He didn't expect to get such a man to owe him with such a small favour. It seems that he really cares about his family.

"Not at all. It's only a small matter." Carlos spoke hurriedly.

"Alright. Now, let's discuss the second reason why I am here."

The old man felt his heartbeat quicken. The second reason? Was there another reason? Before he could say anything, Avren continued.

"Do you have any idea about the power structure of the world? And I mean the 'real' power structure. I don't believe that the law and the military can control the Cultivators."