President Rich’s finger traced the map, pointing to several specially marked areas.
"Firstly, in the southeast lies the Fungus Beast Swamp, filled with persistent corrupt miasma, where enormous and dangerous luminescent fungi grow alongside various demons adapted to the toxic environment, like the Venom Crocodile and the Barbed Water Python. Some adventurers have already perished there, so be mindful of your bearings when entering."
"To the southwest is the Black Forest, home to some ancient tree demons and their insectoid minions, who are very hostile to intruders."
"Here is a foggy path, a canyon terrain shrouded in magical fog that not only obscures vision but also affects the mind, causing illusions and inducing sleep. Numerous banshees and undead creatures reside within. Recently, over a dozen cavalrymen have become lost there, and it has now been sealed off by the Cavalry Corps, who have full authority over the matter."
Finally, his finger pointed to a vast hilly area due south.
"This is the Wyvern Nest. Several wyverns and even more pterodactyl-like creatures reside on the rocky cliffs, alongside various subordinate monsters that make up the defense forces of the Green Dragon Queen. The wyverns are fierce in nature, with a strong territorial instinct, often attacking ground creatures. I don’t recommend you go there."
After introducing the general intelligence about the surrounding areas, Rich took out a scroll from under the table and handed it to Gauss.
"There’s a new commission here, see if you’re willing to accept it."
"The mission level is a four-star novice. You’re required to go to the Black Forest and investigate the recent distribution of Thorn Barbarians, recording the locations and numbers. Be aware that this group is elusive and seems to sense capture attempts, possessing a unique ability to charm minds. Several people have already fallen under their influence and joined their ranks."
"The mission reward is 40 gold coins and 5 Adventurer Association merits."
A survey mission, perhaps?
Gauss muttered to himself.
However, when Rich introduced the four locations earlier, he had already felt a subtle urge to go to the Black Forest.
The Wyvern Nest is too dangerous for them, easily dismissed.
Among the other three areas, the Black Forest, inhabited by ancient tree demons and insectoid minions, reminded him of those fragmented and strange whispers he heard in the tavern yesterday.
Perhaps, his innate talent "Proto-Form of Hive Mind" might yield additional insights there? Leading to more discoveries?
After all, being new here, he knew nothing about the other sections, so it seemed better to choose one that looked suitable.
With this thought, he was somewhat tempted.
However, he still looked towards his two companions.
"You decide."
"Captain, I’ll follow you."
After receiving their feedback, Gauss looked at President Rich, hesitating no longer: "We accept."
"Alright. The mission duration is seven days; regardless of success or failure, you must return with a report by sunset on the seventh day. If any emergencies arise, you can return to report the situation immediately." Rich handed the commission scroll to Gauss. "Take care, and good luck to you."
After picking up the mission, the three of them left the temporary base of the Adventurer’s Guild.
When they arrived at a deserted clearing, preparing to set up camp, Gauss thought about it and decided to mention the fragmented voices he heard in the tavern yesterday to the other two.
"So, that’s why you want to go to the areas where those bugs are gathered, to look for clues, right?" Aaliyah rubbed her chin.
"There might be some incredible treasure!"
She couldn’t help but brighten up her eyes.
It sounded just like an adventure from a storybook.
As soon as she spoke, she quickly covered her mouth, glancing around to make sure there were no strangers before letting out a sigh of relief.
"Aaliyah, you just used a Communication Technique, no need to be so cautious." Gauss reminded.
"Right, right." Aaliyah, her mind clouded by the potential treasure, realized belatedly.
They set up camp, cooked, and passed the night.
The next day, amidst the bustling activities, the team quickly fetched water to wash up, packed their gear, and mounted chocobos, setting off from the outpost camp.
The entire camp was a hubbub of noises, but everyone was efficiently performing their tasks.
Following the map’s marked direction to the "Black Forest," Gauss and the others gradually disappeared at the end of the road.
...
At the center of the outpost camp.
Inside a core tent guarded by elite cavalry soldiers.
Rock sat leisurely in a luxuriously soft seat, with Uncle Mo standing by his side.
"This camp is too dilapidated. Why did Father send me here?" After a day, Rock seemed to have reverted to his old self, especially with the camp’s chaotic nature making him feel lost.
It’s said that 17 outpost bases need to be established this time.
He couldn’t figure out what’s so special about this one numbered "11".
"And I must remain incognito, posing as an ordinary adventurer, with only Uncle Mo accompanying me."
"This is the prophecy of the great mage Zaran—dreams, slumber, and the miracle about to awaken. The legendary future will be conceived here, and those who stand alongside it will share in the glory." He paused slightly, his tone becoming solemn. "But we must not disturb any of this. Rock, this is an opportunity you must seize."
"Ah... got it." Rock shook his head, his face full of resignation.
If he’d harbored a bit of longing to achieve legendary status before coming, the chaotic and noisy camp before him was like a bucket of cold water, extinguishing the fervor in his heart that had taken so long to ignite.
The overpowering stench of sweat, the roaring of voices, the muddy ground, and the ant-like swarming crowds... all of it left him restless.
How could a legend be born in such a dirty and chaotic place?
Today, we must seize the time to enter the Misty Path and investigate. The magical mist that pervades there can disturb minds, create illusions, and induce slumber, just as described in the prophecy of the great mage Zaran." Uncle Mo continued. "Before coming, I’ve sent someone to seal the outer areas, theoretically ensuring no disturbances. But we need to hurry; we cannot keep it sealed for too long, as it would defy the prophecy."