However, even without Angel’s words, Dox knew it was absolutely impossible; after all, this was a big shot from the Research and Development Institute. A small Lawrence family couldn’t support this individual. So, they only told the outside world that a passing Alchemist friend helped forge something, which barely quelled the external disturbance.
Yet, even so, outside the ruins where Kaier lived, there were still many people gathering around. Most were looking for Alchemists to do some alchemy, and some were trying to network.
But they’ll probably leave empty-handed.
While Dox was sighing, Angel tossed the short sword to Kaier, who was standing dumbfounded nearby.
After simply explaining the situation of the short sword, upon learning it might be a High Order creation, Kaier was so scared that his hands shook.
And Dox, on the side, was staring with glowing eyes, wishing he could snatch it up immediately.
For Wandering Wizards like them, they rarely have the chance to encounter such High Order items, and even if they see them at auctions, they can’t afford them. Yes, Dox was indeed a pauper.
He hadn’t even touched a High Order weapon before, yet now it appeared right before him without any forewarning.
Dox restrained his urge to grab it, pretending to be indifferent: "What do you know about High Order weapons, you’re just an apprentice, let me take a look."
Kaier was also afraid he’d drop the short sword due to his trembling hands, so he simply handed it to Dox.
Upon receiving it, Dox appeared to scrutinize it normally but inside, he was drooling over the short sword like a fanatic.
Kaier couldn’t sense Dox’s inner emotions, but Angel, who was extremely sensitive to emotional fluctuations, could detect a bit.
Angel glanced at Dox and, to prevent him from going down the ’road of no return,’ he added, "Though it’s High Order as a key, it’s actually only Intermediate Rank as a weapon."
"Still, even so, it’s worth several times the materials you used." Angel turned to Kaier: "So, you didn’t lose out this time."
Kaier quickly nodded, his mouth full of compliments.
Knowing it could only be used as an Intermediate Rank weapon, Dox’s interest slightly diminished, but he still couldn’t bear to let go of the short sword, twirling it in his hands, feeling a bit eager to engage in some fierce battles and sharpen its edge.
Angel said, "The key can be considered successfully forged, so next is the subsequent exploration. Before discussing the exploration, I need to talk with Dox about some matters. Kaier, you’re welcome to listen in, though knowing too many secrets isn’t always a good thing."
Kaier, without hesitation, chose to turn away and leave.
After Kaier left, Dox also put down the short sword, his gaze leveled at Angel. He knew whether Vay’s situation could be tolerated depended on Angel’s next words.
"Earlier, I used some special methods and learned some interesting things. Would you like to know?"
Dox didn’t ask what special methods Angel used; even if Angel directly contacted the higher-ups of the Barbarian Cave, he wouldn’t be surprised. After all, the Research and Development Institute has many items not available for public sale but are always speculated and coveted, one of them being the small Signal Tower, which has long been rumored. So, Angel might contact others.
"Yes." Dox nodded without hesitation.
Angel said, "I learned some secret information about the Black Earl. According to the person who told me, taking Vay for the exploration should be harmless."
Upon hearing this, Dox slightly relaxed. However, Angel’s next words made Dox’s brows furrow deeply.
"But I learned another piece of information elsewhere."
Angel said while fiddling with the short sword in his hands, "The door that this key is meant to open is very likely related to the Noah Clan."
Angel certainly didn’t dare to completely confirm this.
But Augustine Noah, coupled with the Black Earl belonging to the Noah Clan, is indeed highly suspicious.
He planted this seed of doubt in Dox to prevent any issues from arising later, where Dox might consider his relationship with Vay and end up in danger.