Chapter 392, Journey
Leaving the study.
The two walked along the corridor heading outside.
Wu Heng asked, "What did the steward mean by saying there might be special circumstances?"
It wasn't unusual for the guild to send reinforcements to nearby areas.
But from Imiro's tone while assigning the task, it seemed there was more to this.
Sheila Grey said, "Sister Moya mentioned that a high-level Professional arrived on the island yesterday. The timing coincides suspiciously with this mission, raising concerns about potential issues."
"Could there be a plot?"
Sheila Grey shook her head and said, "It's unlikely. Such reinforcements are typically requested directly by the local guild, so it's hard to imagine foul play. If anything went wrong, they'd find it difficult to absolve themselves."
Wu Heng nodded in agreement.
Involving the local guilds meant accountability was inevitable.
If false information was sent and something went awry, the guild would investigate thoroughly.
With interrogation tools and truth-detection items at their disposal, any lies would be exposed.
"We should still be cautious," he said.
"Of course." Sheila Grey nodded and then asked, "Which squad do you plan to take?"
"Squad 11."
Sheila Grey frowned slightly, glancing at him. "The newly formed squad? Are you familiar with them?"
"We were in the same squad when I was still a member. She was underappreciated in her previous post, so I suggested she transfer here," Wu Heng explained.
Sheila Grey commented, "Your squad members seem to rise quickly."
A vice steward and a captain—
Members of this squad were advancing rapidly.
"Not too bad," Wu Heng replied.
After some thought, Sheila Grey added, "Squad 11 is understaffed. Given the potential danger of this mission, it's better to bring a fully staffed squad. Just a suggestion—it's up to you."
Wu Heng understood her point. "I'll assess their situation."
Sheila Grey nodded. "We'll meet at the gate at noon. The journey will take about two days, so prepare food and water."
"Understood."
Sheila Grey entered her study.
Wu Heng went straight to the mortuary and converted the Black Crocodile captain's corpse.
A Level 13 skeleton warrior rose from the ground.
Wu Heng named it "Black Crocodile," equipped it with armor to conceal its bones, and returned to his office.
...
Inside the study.
Andviel was grooming the feathers of the small owl.
Seeing Wu Heng return, she smiled and greeted, "Master."
Wu Heng sat at his desk and said, "Viel, the steward has assigned an external investigation. I'll be away for a few days. You and Minnie will stay on the island. This skeleton warrior will guard you during my absence."
Andviel paused, her brow furrowing slightly. "An off-island mission? Should I accompany you? I can take care of you on the journey."
"I'll have Sheila Grey and two squads with me. Bringing extra caretakers would only invite ridicule."
"That's nonsense. They'd be envious of you instead. Let me come," Andviel softly pleaded as she approached.
"It's just a couple of days. You need to manage things here, especially Minnie. Keep her from wandering off while I'm gone," Wu Heng insisted.
Bringing a maid on an official mission felt out of place.
Besides, as a vice steward, Wu Heng had to maintain a respectable image.
Andviel reluctantly nodded. "Alright, but take me with you once I'm stronger."
"Of course." Wu Heng nodded. "We're leaving at noon. Viel, please arrange food for a two-day journey from the tavern."
"Understood, Master." Andviel donned her coat and prepared to leave.
As she reached the door, Wu Heng added, "Also, ask 'Carvina' to come by."
"Got it!"
Andviel left, and not long after, the door knocked again. Carvina entered directly.
She glanced at the skeleton attendants standing in the room and asked curiously, "What's up?"
Wu Heng gestured for her to sit and asked, "How have you been adjusting these past few days?"
Carvina smiled. "Everything's great. The weather and scenery here are much better than Blackstone Town."
"If you need anything, let me know. I'll have it arranged."
"Thanks. Everyone here is kind. Having a reliable backer is nice," Carvina said with a hint of gratitude.
Wu Heng nodded and asked, "Did the steward recommend squad members for you?"
"Two have joined: a dwarven shield warrior and a human ranger. We're still getting acquainted."
"Are dwarves suited for shield warriors?"
Shield warriors focused on defense and protection. A dwarf's stature seemed unsuited for the role.
Carvina chuckled. "They're surprisingly good. Dwarves' physical strength rivals humans'."
"Good to hear." Wu Heng continued, "I have a mission that might involve danger. Would you like to join me?"
Without much hesitation, Carvina replied, "Of course. As long as you don't mind our small numbers."
Wu Heng nodded. "Prepare your squad members and meet me here at noon. Keep the mission details confidential until departure."
"Understood," Carvina replied seriously.
"Do you have a spatial ring?"
"Uh… no." Carvina admitted.
Guild standards varied across regions.
In Blackstone Town, even Steward Slater lacked a spatial ring, let alone squad captains like Carvina.
On Golden-Silver Island, defeating a Level 10 pirate could yield a spatial ring.
Pirate captains often rivaled stewards from smaller towns in strength.
Wu Heng handed her a ring. "It holds five cubic meters. Prepare food and water. These are essential for sea travel."
Carvina hesitated, unsure whether to accept.
Joining Wu Heng already felt like a huge favor. Taking his belongings seemed too much.
"It's unnecessary. I can manage with a bag."
"Consider it a loan. Pay me back when you're able."
With that assurance, Carvina accepted the ring with thanks and put it on.
"I'll get ready now," she said.
"Meet at the gate by noon. Don't be late."
"Understood."
After Carvina left, Wu Heng began organizing items in his spatial ring.
Tools and equipment likely to be needed were sorted into one ring for easy access.
Before long, Andviel returned with the ordered food and drink.
Wu Heng stored everything away.
By noon,
Wu Heng met with Carvina's squad. After some time, Carvina arrived with Squad 11.
They boarded a carriage to the port.
Once there, they embarked on a ship and departed.
...
Inside the cabin.
The overhead light stone swayed gently with the ship's movements.
The crew sat silently, gathered in the cabin.
Sheila Grey addressed them. "Our mission is to investigate cult activities in villages near Lopez City. The situation has escalated beyond the local guild's capacity, leading them to request Golden-Silver Island's assistance. Be vigilant. Also, remember to uphold the guild's reputation. Do not exploit or harm local residents under the guild's banner."