Arknights: Mobile City

After hearing Heal's words, Theresa and Kal'tsit both fell silent.

It wasn't surprising that Heal had guessed their intentions.

But still…

"Could you arrange a meeting with The City's leader for us?"

Theresa asked gently, clasping her hands loosely in front of her waist.

"Unfortunately, no," Heal replied with a shrug. "Even I can't casually meet the leader whenever I want. I'm sure the Doctor told you about her own experience?"

But Heal's expression soon turned mischievous again, lips curving into a faint smile.

"However…there might still be a small chance right now. Under normal circumstances, I'd advise you to simply give up, but this particular occasion might actually work in your favor."

"You have a method?" Theresa asked immediately.

Heal shrugged ambiguously, eyes sparkling as she explained:

"Of course. But whether or not you take this opportunity is entirely up to you. You see, the leader is quite interested in Lobotomy Corporation. K Corp's investment was precisely because of his attention."

"So, who's to say he won't pay attention to Lobotomy Corp's interviews? If that's the case, then performing well in the interview might grant you an audience with him."

Hearing this, Kal'tsit and Theresa exchanged quiet glances outside the crowded hall, nodding subtly in mutual agreement.

Whatever it took…meeting The City's leader was their ultimate goal.

Right now, their only viable lead to meeting him was succeeding in this interview…

"However, getting his attention this way won't be easy. After all, this is Lobotomy Corporation—not some random roadside startup."

Seeing their determined expressions, Heal narrowed her eyes playfully as she continued.

Theresa was briefly taken aback before smiling genuinely, gently prompting Heal again:

"Could we trouble you to explain a bit more clearly? From the way you speak, I gather it's not as simple as it seems on the surface…"

"…Are you trying to pry information out of me, an examiner?"

Heal teased lightly, though Theresa's calm expression didn't waver.

Heal's smile gradually faded, replaced by a more serious and neutral expression. Finally, she spoke again:

"I can tell you—but in exchange, you'll have to accept one condition."

"Please, name it."

"After the civil war in Kazdel ends, I want K Corp to establish a branch there. Nothing overly complicated—just securing a location. I'd appreciate it if you could help negotiate this arrangement with Theresis. In return, I'll ensure you pass to the next round of this interview, allowing you a glimpse at the things you truly wish to see. Consider it compensation for your assistance."

"Can you accept this condition?"

Theresa didn't frown upon hearing Heal's terms, merely releasing a quiet sigh.

"Miss Heal, you truly are a merchant, exactly as you described yourself."

Heal chuckled softly, then fell silent, patiently waiting for Theresa's response. After a long pause, Theresa slowly nodded, quietly giving her answer:

"I accept your condition, Miss Heal."

"Good. Then I'll share some details about the interview process."

"What you've seen today is merely the preliminary screening round. Afterward, about one hundred candidates will move on to the second round. Unlike today's casual questions, the next round will involve genuine, practical combat."

"Combat?"

"Yes—live combat in The Outskirts."

Heal blinked, her expression still cheerful as she explained:

"Lobotomy Corp has specifically designated an area outside The City. Those one hundred candidates will be collectively dropped into this zone and must survive there for three days. Your performance will determine whether Lobotomy Corporation hires you."

"As for the area itself…it's naturally in The Outskirts, full of monsters. Lobotomy Corp has selected a zone with a somewhat lower density of creatures, but even then, there are several Abnormalities roaming about."

"These range from TETH-class all the way to WAW-class… none of them particularly pleasant."

"…I understand. Thank you very much for your information."

Though Theresa didn't fully grasp the classifications Heal mentioned, she respectfully bowed her head slightly in gratitude. At the same time, a worried frown appeared on her face.

From Heal's description, the second interview stage sounded undeniably dangerous.

Why does this entire process feel like raising Gu…?

A brief flicker of discomfort crossed Theresa's mind, but when she raised her head again, Heal had already waved goodbye and disappeared. Theresa turned to Kal'tsit and softly said:

"Let's go."

"For now, we'll just wait and see who makes it through to the next round."

...

Theresa's wait wasn't long.

Three hours later, nearly one thousand candidates had completed the preliminary screening. Soon after, all applicants gathered outside, anxiously awaiting the final results.

Once everyone assembled, X began calmly announcing the names of those who'd advanced.

Unsurprisingly, Theresa and Kal'tsit's disguised identities were called first. After all, they did have insider connections…

The two then quietly observed the other chosen candidates.

"Number thirty-seven… number forty-one, Laurentina…"

When that name was announced, Kal'tsit's eyes sharpened instantly, staring at the figure stepping forward. Her expression shifted subtly in surprise.

An Abyssal Hunter?

Kal'tsit's gaze remained fixed on Laurentina, her brows knitted thoughtfully.

What are the Abyssal Hunters doing in this corner of The City?

Suddenly, Kal'tsit had the unsettling premonition that the upcoming interview round would be far more complicated than she'd anticipated…

"Kal'tsit."

Theresa gently tapped her shoulder. Kal'tsit immediately looked up, turning toward Theresa, whose expression now held clear astonishment.

Realizing Theresa was discreetly pointing at someone in particular, Kal'tsit followed her line of sight—and froze.

W.

When she saw the Sarkaz woman calmly stepping forward, Kal'tsit felt a sudden, deep certainty.

At the same time, a faint confusion flickered in her mind…

Why is W here?