I became Villain's Best Friend

Finally, they reached their destination. Standing before a massive building bustling with people coming and going, the sight was truly mesmerizing. The trio's eyes widened in amazement. Rose, noticing the wonder in Seraphina and Jonny's expressions, smirked and said, "Isn't it amazing?"

She was about to share the story of how she discovered the Merchant Guild while searching for food before she became part of the slums. But as the memories of loneliness and hardship surfaced, a shiver ran down her spine—fear, desperation, and sadness tightening their grip on her. Shaking off those thoughts, she turned to Seraphina and said, "Let's head inside."

For the first time, they were entering without the guards looking at them with contempt.

"What business do children have here?" one of the guards asked. Though his tone was strict, there was no mockery in his eyes.

"This isn't a place for kids to play."

Sensing no hostility, Seraphina smiled. "We're not here to play. We're here to sell."

The guard raised an eyebrow before stepping aside. "Then go inside."

Hope swelled in the trio's eyes as they stepped into the building. Seraphina, relying on her past life's knowledge, led them directly to the reception, where a woman was stationed.

"Would you accept a tool we want to sell?" Seraphina asked confidently. "We're also willing to sell the technique to make it."

Although she spoke calmly, her sharp hazel eyes observed the receptionist's every move before finally shifting away.

The woman looked at the small, frail children before her. She found it hard to believe they had something valuable to offer, but the unwavering confidence in Seraphina's gaze made her hesitate.

"Can I see the tool first?" she asked.

Seraphina nodded but didn't immediately hand it over. This was something Luke had painstakingly crafted, and she wouldn't just display it without demonstrating its worth.

"Could I get a carrot or a potato first?" she requested.

The receptionist frowned slightly before calling over an attendant. "Lina, give me that carrot you always snack on."

The brown-haired attendant scowled. "Why? It's mine! I don't share!"

The receptionist adjusted her glasses and whispered something into Lina's ear. Lina's face turned pale as horror flickered in her eyes. With a defeated sigh, she pulled out her wooden meal box and handed it over.

The trio watched the exchange, eyes darting between the two women. The receptionist, with her pale orange hair and composed demeanor, had just blackmailed Lina. In their eyes, she suddenly transformed into a formidable, domineering boss lady.

Clearing her throat as if aware of their thoughts, the receptionist handed the carrot to Seraphina. "Here you go."

Seraphina offered a professional smile before glancing at the receptionist's name tag—'Chloe Wood.' The sight stirred memories of a friend from her past life who had a similar sharp wit.

Pushing the thoughts aside, she demonstrated the tool. As she effortlessly peeled the carrot, the surrounding attendants leaned in, eyes widening in amazement. It was such a simple device, yet none of them had ever thought of creating something like it.

Chloe murmured something to Lina before heading inside. Moments later, she returned, gesturing toward them. "Why don't we wait inside? We like your tool. Let's discuss further."

Following Lina, the trio entered a room where Chloe stood beside a middle-aged man. His green eyes gleamed like emeralds, and his orange hair bore the same hue as Chloe's, making Seraphina wonder if they were related. Her gaze subtly scanned the room, assessing for potential threats.

The man leaned back casually. "Sit down, kiddos. Now, let me see that tool."

Seraphina handed it over, and the man inspected it closely. His eyes widened in admiration. Without a word, he whispered something to Chloe, who swiftly left and returned with a tray of cookies and tea.

His gaze softened with sympathy. "Eat up. All of it."

Then, with a grin, he added, "I don't want you skinny kids passing out before we settle the deal."

Seraphina hesitated, but Jonny and Rose were already eyeing the food hungrily. She sighed and motioned for them to eat. She, however, remained composed, waiting for the man to speak.

His green eyes glinted with determination. "Eat, or we're not talking."

Seraphina blinked, then exhaled. The warmth in her chest grew. There were still decent people in this world.

As the trio enjoyed their food, Seraphina ate sparingly, sitting upright with her attention fixed on the man. Once they finished, he cleared his throat and introduced himself with a refined air. "Let me introduce myself. My name is Julian Ashford, and I am the master of this guild."

At his name, Rose's eyes widened in recognition. As a social butterfly, she immediately whispered to Seraphina, "Sera… he's the younger brother of Count Ashford!"

Julian chuckled, having clearly heard her. "You're well-informed, kid."

Rose tossed back her red locks with a smirk. "Of course!"

Laughter filled the room, the tension easing as the negotiations were about to begin.