Chapter 82: Into the Dungeon
Lawrence wasn’t just made aware of that micro-dungeon in the past couple of days.
In fact, this information came to light more than a week ago.
During this time, he had been preparing for the dungeon exploration, including but not limited to, preparing equipment and supplies in advance.
Silver-plated weapons for potential undead creatures, remote weapons like crossbow arrows, illumination tools. Supplies like water, antidotes, and food. Tools for special terrains like lock-pickers, climbing ropes, and reconnaissance toolsets, etc.
Next was recruiting personnel.
He used letters to contact some of his former apprentice friends, most of whom were quite capable, and the primary aim of this more than a week was also to await the gathering of other team members.
After all, not everyone can simultaneously free themselves during this period; some time had to be reserved for others to finish their current commissions.
As usual, the first meeting place for this temporary team preparing to explore the micro-dungeon was set in a tavern.
Bitter Wormwood Town, Oak Barrel Tavern.
Perhaps due to the local characteristics, even the tavern in Bitter Wormwood Town carried a hint of a refreshing herbal fragrance.
This fragrance imparted a touch of calm to what should have been a coarse and noisy place, reminiscent somewhat of the quiet bars from Gauss’s past life.
Gauss pushed open the door and stepped into the hall, looking around.
He finally spotted Lawrence’s figure in a booth near the corner.
With him were several unfamiliar men and women, who must be the companions for this temporary exploration.
"Let me introduce you, this is Caster Gauss. Quite formidable indeed."
Lawrence first introduced Gauss to the others.
The rest had already heard from Lawrence before Gauss arrived that there was an apprentice caster joining the expedition.
Now seeing him in person, with his slightly youthful appearance, they judged that he probably hadn’t been an adventurer for long.
Adventurers with a bit of work experience, constantly traveling outdoors, facing the elements, found it difficult to maintain such fair and smooth skin like his.
For a moment, they exchanged glances, internally filled with doubts.
Could Lawrence have befriended a wealthy young heir who joined out of curiosity for dungeon exploring?
In truth, they had misunderstood Gauss.
Gauss, born a farmer’s boy, had far from the poise he carried now; just a couple of months ago, he was a grimy little Kalami.
However, over time, with proper nutrition, and as his physical attributes improved, his aura became more impressive, feeling as though he had been reborn.
Gauss noticed the many glances thrown his way, sensing the emotions behind them, but he wasn’t intimidated.
Adventurers ultimately rely on strength, and he reckoned that with his current strength, no bottom adventurer could surpass him, so he rarely cared about outside opinions.
He glanced at everyone and greeted them confidently.
This calm demeanor earned him some points, easing the speculations in the minds of some.
They began introducing themselves one by one.
"I am..."
After introductions, Gauss gained some understanding of his dungeon companions; including himself and Lawrence, there were seven in total.
They were two warrior apprentices, human Warrior Liam and half-beastman Warrior Sok.
Wandering Apprentice Edith. The brawny Priest Apprentice Adrian, and Ranger Apprentice Bianca.
As well as apprentices like Caster Lawrence and Gauss.
Except for Lawrence, who appeared somewhat indulgent, the rest were all robust, evident from their athletic build alone.
This realization made Gauss nod internally in approval.
He also hoped his teammates were reliable.
The next day.
After a half-day team training, Gauss quickly grew closer to the once unfamiliar members.
His teammates recognized the strength Gauss showcased during training.
They saw what—an athletic individual, skilled in attack and defense, who even mastered commendable swordsmanship?
His diverse abilities somewhat exceeded their understanding of a mere apprentice.
They weren’t curious about how Gauss trained; it didn’t much concern them, as long as they knew he was a teammate in this exploration.
"Gauss, want to hit the tavern again tonight?" Half-Beastman Warrior Sok casually draped an arm over Gauss’s shoulder, speaking in a forthright tone.
Most half-beastmen were similarly straightforward, outspoken, action over words, and revered strength.
Their thoughts often mirrored their expressions.
As did Sok’s current display of enthusiasm and friendliness.
Funny enough, last night’s first meeting at the tavern, he was the one lounging coldly in his chair.
"I think I’ll pass. We’re setting off tomorrow; best to drink less tonight." Gauss, feeling slightly uneasy under Sok’s powerful aura, politely declined.
"Haha, fair enough!" Sok agreed, nodding in agreement with Gauss’s point.
This scene made Lawrence facepalm on the side.
Actually, even Lawrence wasn’t that familiar with Sok, who he remembered as impulsive, straightforward, and often unintentionally offensive. Who knew this rough fellow could be this understanding?