The man paused, deep in thought, before speaking earnestly, "Let me explain. The person that Magus used to follow was truly despicable. Like a heartless beast in human form."
Thalia, growing impatient, interjected, "Get to the point."
He continued, "Magus saw that man as an older brother figure. But when their mission failed, that man callously abandoned Magus without a word. Despite Magus' unwavering loyalty, that man became fearful and threatened to kill Magus' woman and child if he ever betrayed him."
Tony and Thalia were shocked upon hearing this revelation. "He has a child?" they asked in disbelief.
The man glanced at both of them and continued, "Yes. But the child was lost before even being born..."
A heavy silence filled the room as Tony and Thalia let their imaginations run wild with sinister conspiracies. Feeling anxious, Thalia asked, "How did the child disappear?"
The man responded with bitterness, "Do I even need to say it? The man that Magus admired took an interest in Lina, Magus' girlfriend who was pregnant at the time. He attempted to assault her, and during the struggle, the child was lost."
Thalia's expression grew darker, murmuring, "He's truly a despicable scoundrel." The man nodded in agreement, adding, "And Magus protected him all along, only discovering the truth after he was released..."
Tony became tense, realizing that the man was no better than a beast. He asked, "And how is his girlfriend?"
The man explained, "The doctor diagnosed her with long-standing depression, which has deeply affected her heart. After losing the child, she has been deteriorating day by day. If this continues, she won't survive much longer."
Sympathy filled Tony and Thalia's faces as they listened. The man felt compelled to defend himself, saying, "The reason why he joined me in scamming money was to pay for Lina's medical treatment. He wouldn't have resorted to such actions otherwise."
Thalia's gaze sharpened, accusing him, "So, you're truly despicable. Knowing that this money is meant to save lives, you still managed to profit greatly from it."
He defended himself, "I didn't profit much. He took most of the money. What about the money you..."
Thalia interrupted him, her voice firm, "He wasn't earning that money, so I had to earn it for him. That money is truly something!"
The man wanted to argue back, but he held his tongue. It was just a couple of insults, and it wouldn't solve anything. Thalia furrowed her brows and asked, "What's wrong?"
The man snapped out of his reverie, his gaze focusing on her. "You said just now..." he began hesitantly.
Thalia reached into her bag and pulled out today's money. The man's face lit up with joy as he accepted the money. "Then I won't bother you anymore."
As he was about to leave, Thalia looked at Tony and asked, "What's the plan now?"
Tony pondered for a moment before responding, "We need to find that man. The problem is, how do we find him?"
Thalia nodded in agreement, determined. "We must find a way, no matter how much money it takes or what methods we have to use. We have to give it a try!"
Curiosity flashed in the man's eyes as he listened. "What's the matter? Do you have a plan?"
Tony smiled and asked, "Are you willing to help us?"
The man sensed an opportunity and responded, "Yes, we are. How much are you willing to pay?"
Thalia interrupted, "Why? Didn't you say you didn't want to get involved?"
The man smiled and said, "I just remembered something!"