“Nice to meet you, Mr. Siede.” Zich shook Condel’s hand a couple of times. “Yes, Mr. Zich. What did you want to see me for?”

“Nothing much. We just needed to ask you some things about the kidnapping incidents.”

“I don’t know what you want to ask about, but I will cooperate to the best of my abilities since you are working for the city.” Condel spoke politely, but because of his scary face, it sounded like he was talking sarcastically or trying to intimidate his addressee. It was to the point that Elena, who didn’t have much worldly experience, gulped. 

Yet, Zich continued calmly. “I know that you have a deep connection with the underworld.” 

Maybe it was a sensitive question, but Condel stared at Zich with his wide eyes. Zich didn’t turn away though. 

In the end, Condel said after hesitating, “Yes, it is as you say.”

“You are admitting it so easily.”

“It’s an open secret. Also, I know how important the city is considering these kidnapping cases. It won’t do me any good by lying carelessly.” Then, Condel smiled—or at least, that was what he looked to be doing. His canine teeth shone brightly between the small gap of his opened mouth. If he smiled just two more times, he could have killed a couple...