Chapter 36: Residence
n-.o)-v).e((l./b-.I..n
After walking the opposite way of the lifeless rough-looking man, Shi Tian's next motive was to find a living place to reside in temporarily.
Even though he had no intention of staying long in Gearits City, a living place was still required. Otherwise, he would be sleeping in the street and possibly be attacked during his unconscious state.
Despite being inside the safe zone city, the truth was that the city wasn't really secure and safe for the residents. After all, the rough-looking man being beaten to near death was common, and not a single person would even care or be bothered by them.
There wasn't even any law enforcement being deployed to curb such a scene. Henceforth, Shi Tian knew he needed a residence to be protected because there was a law within the city that no one is allowed to attack someone in their residence.
And this was a law that was reinforced by the government since they needed to make sure that people can be reassured in their own living residences.
'There aren't any cheap options available for renting a residence.' Shi Tian frowned a bit when he browsed through the internet. There were numerous residences available for rent, but most of them charged an insane amount of Eons.
With how messed up the world had become and how lawless crime could occur within Gearits City, only a residence could truly protect one's property and life, depending on the location. Thus, it came as no surprise that each populated residence being rented out would charge an insane price.
It was no different than being a monopolist that forced consumers to have no other choice but to accept their fate of paying the overcharged renting price.
However, it was a pipe dream to attempt to become an owner of multiple residences. After all, one must have the reputation and power to back it up to ensure no one would dare to seek trouble toward them.
"Most residences are owned by powerful companies, and the lowest priced one is probably owned by people in the underworld gangs." Shi Tian murmured softly, instantly realizing the hierarchy structure without needing it to be explained by someone else.
The residences that are owned by powerful companies were located in populated areas where law enforcement would usually patrol, creating the safest environment for the people that rent these residences.
As for the residences priced at the lowest, they are usually near or close to the slum areas, making it quite dangerous to live around. In addition to that, security near these residences is usually not guaranteed, unless one is capable enough to fend for themselves.
Taking a deep breath, Shi Tian sighed softly as he knew what kind of option he was left with. As much as he preferred to have a populated residential area as his temporary living place, it would be nigh impossible with the current money he got with him.
Shi Tian had splurged too much recently, but it was all necessary. Hence, he didn't regret a single bit of wasting the money.
'It seems like I'll need to give this person a call...' Shi Tian exclaimed inwardly, his left finger hovering on the only contact in the old model Cellos, Salty Rogue.
An individual could only go so far in attempting to do everything by themself in an unfamiliar place. Once that limit was reached, seeking help from others might be the only plausible solution.
Not to mention, Shi Tian was being blocked by an obstacle that he could not overcome at the moment; he was extremely weak. Guns might work on those who didn't have the proper gear to deflect bullets, but for those who know what they are doing, Shi Tian was no different than an ant.
Just the two shadow figures that appeared in Optic Mech were enough to prove that Shi Tian wasn't even at a level capable of being feared or respected.
Shaking his head, Shi Tian pressed on the contact list of Salty Rogue, and a few seconds later, a holographic projection of Old Man Chao appeared in front of Shi Tian.
"Hehe, I knew you would need my help sooner or later," Old Man Chao chuckled cheekily, almost as if he had predicted this situation a long time ago.
Meanwhile, Shi Tian furrowed his brows in response. He couldn't comprehend how Old Man Chao was that confident of him seeking help from him.
After all, he could have just ignored some precautions and continued to proceed with his own help.
Seeing his confused expression, Old Man Chao smirked and explained, "The scene you created in the campsite isn't something small, sir. News travels fast around these areas, especially those who can get information at the snap of a finger."
Although the explanation was somewhat subtle and without much substance, it allowed Shi Tian to understand everything right away.
He might not have faced any repercussions for committing murder, but it had in fact spread the news regarding his action and appearance. Thus, Shi Tian understood that Old Man Chao should have recognized his appearance ever since he had approached his stall.
"And here I thought you are just some part-time scammer toward foreigners," Shi Tian commented, not bothered by the fact of being recognized.
He hadn't made any effort in changing his appearance or attire, so anyone with a few brain cells and memorization skills would be able to recognize him instantly.
"Hehe, I'm glad sir isn't furious about the matter. Normally, people tend to be wary or even agitated that I hid from them."
"Those who get wary or agitated are those who can't protect themselves. Since you have recognized me from the start, but kept quiet about it in the beginning. Then you could have easily kept this a secret. There wouldn't be a point of you revealing it to me if you had wished to do something insidious."
Old Man Chao chuckled softly and nodded his head, clearly impressed by the logical response of Shi Tian.
"Sir's intelligence and action have impressed this old bone of mine. Now tell me, what help do you require from me?"
