"Questionable credibility, money-hungry, highly capable, and a ruthless opportunist. That kind of persona is exactly what fits that ship."
She paused, then added, "Besides, this identity gives you a lot of room to operate."
"If someone wants you to save a life, you can demand an extortionate fee."
"If someone wants your drugs, you can hike up the price on the spot."
"If someone tries to double-cross you, you can cross them right back."
"Don't worry, this identity is perfect for you."
Serena couldn't help but laugh. "You really thought of everything."
It was true. In a place like Whitecliffe Harbor, a flawless persona was the most suspicious thing of all.
A money-grubbing, unreliable pharmacist with genuine skills was much easier to slip past their defenses.
"Of course! With me on the job, how could there be any issues?" Hazel boasted proudly, crunching loudly on her pastry.
Serena smiled faintly. "What about the pass?"
"Sent it to you as well," Hazel replied. "It's an unbound Raven-Plume credential intercepted by Ghost Alliance informants from the outer black market of Whitecliffe Harbor. Completely clean. Didn't go through the Obsidian Sun's channels."
"Someone recently put out a massive bounty for medication to stabilize special test subjects. It's the perfect excuse to insert The Panacea into the mix."
Serena opened the second file.
A black, raven-feather-shaped electronic pass hovered quietly on the screen.
Her lips curved into a smirk before her gaze returned to the pastry Hazel was still chewing.
Her tone was nonchalant. "Hazel."
"Hmm?"
"Watch what you say over the next few days."
Hazel froze mid-bite, suddenly feeling guilty. "W-when do I ever say the wrong thing?"
Serena narrowed her eyes. "Why do you look so guilty?"
Hazel was speechless.
She immediately sat up straight, trying to prove her innocence through the screen. "I'm not! Do I look like the kind of person who'd spill?"
"No," Serena replied calmly. "But Julian's culinary temptations are enough to make you drop your guard."
Obviously, Serena had recognized that the pastry Hazel was eating had been made by Julian.

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