Perhaps it was catching the suspicion in Gauss’s eyes.
The dwarf Sorin also realized what he said might not sound right, and he waved his hands repeatedly.
"Hey hey! Dragon-man kid, what’s with that look! I, Sorin Copper Mountain, am a legitimate five-star adventurer. I do lawful work! I don’t do reckless things!"
He hurriedly explained.
Nearby, the female mage Nancy sighed.
"This isn’t the place for chatting. If you’re interested, come find us at the Silver Blossom Tavern on the north side of the town later. We’re temporarily staying there."
"We’ll be in Forest Crown Town for a few more days, so we’re not in a hurry to leave."
Sorin quickly nodded in agreement. "Yes, yes, yes!"
"Alright."
Gauss watched the three of them turn and leave, and Sorin was still loudly discussing something with Nancy.
He turned to Aaliyah and Serdur, exchanging glances.
"Have you heard of the Ironheart Clan?" Gauss asked.
Earlier, when he first entered the second floor, he heard other adventurers talking about Sorin’s origins.
"Yes, I’ve heard of it." Aaliyah nodded, organizing her thoughts slightly and recalled the information in her mind. "The Ironheart Clan is quite famous within the Dwarf Kingdom. They have been rooted in a mountain called Ironforge Peak for generations, which is why they are exceptionally skilled at using volcanic environments and special materials for blacksmithing. Their crafted equipment is priceless."
"It’s my first time meeting a dwarf from the Ironheart Clan."
Gauss nodded.
The impression Sorin and his companions gave earlier wasn’t bad.
Of course, it can’t be ruled out that they might be pretending, but if so, their acting was extraordinarily convincing.
"Their reputation in the forging world and among adventurers is solid," Serdur added in a hoarse voice. "I’ve been to some border markets in the Dwarf Kingdom, and the Ironheart Clan’s name is quite renowned. Their credibility is decent; at least on the surface, I haven’t heard of any betrayals or deceitful actions."
Serdur paused as he spoke.
"And that Sorin Copper Mountain, his last name Copper Mountain, isn’t a simple surname. In dwarf clans that value heritage and forging greatly, having a surname based on such mysterious and precious metal means that his family background is significant."
"Copper Mountain..."
Gauss couldn’t help but recall a description of this material he had read in a book.
It’s also a special magical metal, with a color resembling molten gold. When solidified, its hardness far exceeds that of ordinary steel, and it has good affinity with magic power, capable of perfectly carrying and amplifying enchantment effects. It’s an invaluable forging material, even more precious than gold. It’s often only found in small quantities in the deepest parts of ancient special ore veins.
Other similar precious minerals include blackiron, mithril, and secretsilver...
"A dwarf with such a surname is almost equivalent to nobility in human society. They usually value family honor and integrity more than life."
"Understood."
Gauss nodded, the doubts in his heart dissipating somewhat.
"Then let’s find some time to visit the Silver Blossom Tavern to understand the specific situation."
Whether to accept the invitation still depends on understanding the specific information.
They walked out of the Adventurer’s Guild building.
In front of the door, Gauss took a careful look among the crowd again.
After confirming he didn’t have that unsettling feeling from earlier, he raised an eyebrow.
He headed towards the inn with Aaliyah and Serdur.
By noon, Andri, who had been invited to a meeting, returned to the inn with an indifferent stride.
When she pushed open the door to Gauss’s room.
The three were seated around a small table, with a simple map of Forest Crown Town and notes spread out on the table.
Andri took off her robe’s hood, found an empty spot, and jumped onto it. She casually picked up a washed fruit from the table and took a bite.
"Andri, how was the meeting?" Gauss handed over a cup of water.
"It’s just some officials squabbling." Andri yawned. "But I’ve basically confirmed two things."
"This demonic disturbance isn’t just targeting outpost number 11, several other outposts were also attacked. Secondly, the provincial capital will send people to assist."
"You three should be extra careful while moving around the surrounding areas." Andri stretched lazily.
"Alright."
"By the way, Gauss. I might have to leave tomorrow." She suddenly said.
"Tomorrow, is there something urgent?" Gauss was surprised.
According to what Andri had said before, she was supposed to be traveling without urgent matters.
"No choice, I accepted a commission." Andri shook her head.
"I apologize, but I can’t disclose the specific details of the commission."
Although she tried to appear troubled, the curve on her lips.
Clearly, the employer offered a price she couldn’t refuse.
Even though Andri had formally retired from the adventurer industry, retirement didn’t mean completely staying away from conflicts and adventures.
When the reward is enticing enough to tempt her, this powerful Half-Elf Mage still selectively participates in activities to stay fit and to earn some extra pension.
"It’s alright, you should attend to your matters first." Gauss nodded, indicating his understanding.
Her encounter with the three of them was merely a coincidence, having a period of protection was already fortunate; they couldn’t expect others to follow them like a personal caretaker.
Adventure always comes with meetings and departures; on the journey, new friends will be made, and old friends will part ways. It’s the norm.