19 Malicious Intentions… Finally!

While waiting for Isabel and Rafael to leave, Lian thought through some new changes he could make to speed up this task in the future.

The main point he noted was that it would soon be necessary to convert money through the system in order to have some available for entering restaurants and shops. Although it was good to be cheap, Lian had to choose his battles wisely. Spending meagre amounts ahead of time from his main body was a good investment because if he managed to overhear something, it would be very helpful towards completion of the task.

If he could just take a photo to convince Francisco that Isabel was cheating, he would. Unfortunately, Francisco was head-over-heels for the girl, and even picture proof would make him suspect fake tampering.

"Dammit! I hope they try to cause some trouble soon… Otherwise, I'll be forced to frame them for some shit. Fuck it, we'll see what happens! All for the exp…"

Slightly tipsy, Isabel finally left the bar with Rafael. They walked to a parking a lot a few blocks away, then proceeded to slobber each other's' faces. This continued for longer than Lian wanted, with them finally entering an expensive-looking red car, and Rafael driving away.

This was Lian's cue to head back to the farm. It was evening time, and he felt that he had obtained enough information from today's investigation. Returning to the checkpoint, he helped one of the drivers with unloading before hitching a ride back in their truck.

Before sundown, Lian caught up with most of his sub-tasks by weeding and sowing seeds in the different fields. He then ended the day by grabbing a quick bite, activating "No Washroom Needed", replacing his clothes, setting an early alarm, and passing out.

This same situation played out for most of the week. During this time, Lian also managed to acquaint himself with a few dozen of the workers.

By the third day, he received a notification after accumulating some exp from his sub-tasks.

*System: Congratulations! User has reached lvl 6 in farming. All aspects of the users' farming knowledge and abilities have increased.*

Every day, Lian would wake up very early in the morning in order to work at the barn, then switch to the fields. Afterwards, he would help Matias with loading his truck then head over to the city. Some days, he would spot Isabel at the checkpoint. Other days, she wouldn't even show up. So far, he'd only seen her on trips to fancy restaurants or shops with Rafael.

In order to avoid suspicion, Lian would wear different sets of believable wigs and fake glasses, courtesy of his main body. Unfortunately for now, he still couldn't use the disguise ability outside of the clones given by the system for tasks.

Lian would also buy the cheapest meal, then proceed to sit at an obscure table that would allow him to eavesdrop. But, this rarely happened. Most of the time, he would be touring the city, or playing mobile games for fun and exp.

On the sixth day, Lian woke up earlier than usual in order to complete his tasks quickly and head over to explore the city some more. By leaving earlier than usual, he wouldn't have to worry about missing Isabel at the checkpoint.

"Training is important… but in a new environment, there's nothing wrong with exploring and enjoying the scenery. I will always work hard towards my goal, but if I live like a robot, am I even human?"

Among the tourist spots in Andalucía, Lian wished to view the ruins. From overhearing conversations from both guide and locals, he discovered that there once existed an amazing civilization in Andalucía known for its pursuit of knowledge.

In that era, although the ones residing here were mainly Muslims, they co-existed with both Christians and Judaists; all aiming towards advancing their society. For that reason, this time was known as "La Convivencia". Many scientific, linguistic, philosophical, educational, and mathematical breakthroughs were made during this period.

Unfortunately, nothing ever lasts forever. Bigotry won, and the inquisition attacked. Even the Christian residents of the city weren't safe. Future rulers always made sure to kill anyone who questioned their actions. This continued until nothing could be done to return to that previous era.

"What a shame…"

Lian was personally an agnostic and constantly questioned the existence of a higher power. Not caring for being viewed as indecisive, he believed that both sides of the argument were valid. This was contrary to his parents who were devout Christians.

Regardless of his beliefs, he never looked down on others. From them, he would always take both physical evidence and anecdotal stories in order to formulate his own opinions. Perhaps, he could even develop his own "truth". In fact, with the system, his future understanding of the universe may reach greater heights; beyond even what humanity thought possible.

Therefore, he believed that as long as others wouldn't harm one another, and could co-exist with their differing beliefs and even have civil discussions, there shouldn't be any problems. Sadly, humanity is imperfect and there always tends to be individuals with extreme views or hidden motives that ruin the party for everyone.

Once the afternoon came, Lian returned to his corner and continued playing games as he waited for Isabel to arrive. Thankfully, she did.

He followed her until she met up with Rafael, as usual, with them proceeding to enter a jewelry shop. They left quickly, possibly due to a lack of interest, then continued towards a fancy restaurant. Lian snuck in with them while hoping to overhear some dirt.

"These fuckers better plan something soon, otherwise, I'll have to summon the asshole within me to frame them. But, if that ends up being the case, I can only say… if you cheat, don't complain if you get cheated!"

For the next few minutes, he settled into a table, ordered some fried fish and waited…

Isabel: "Rafael, do you think we'll ever be able to officially marry?"

Rafael: "…Baby...don't worry. Even if it's in secret, I'll give you the most splendid wedding…"

"Blegh, this lovey-dovey shit is too much… More drama please! Come on…"

Overhearing this conversation, Lian was really going to doze off. This was until he heard something of interest…

Isabel: "So honey… what are we going to do about Francisco? I'm going to marry him so my family doesn't annoy me about it in the future, but-"

Rafael: "Hah, don't worry. I'll make sure that kid won't be able to touch you after I'm done with him. It'll be a genius plan so he's forced to care for our children, while we'll still be able to have as much fun as we'd like."

Rafael: "I'm going to get some guys in on the plan soon, so …let's officially discuss this…say… five days from now. Trust me, you'll love it. Hehehe…"

Hearing this, Lian grinned.

"Finally…"