At 7:00 pm, Dustin, Abigail, and Azalea arrived as planned at the resort’s restaurant. The restaurant was spacious enough to accommodate hundreds of people.
Dustin noticed that there were already groups of people sitting together, chatting lively. While there were a few tourists, most of the guests were martial artists who came for the treasure.
“Over here!” Vanessa called out as she waved at them energetically. Dustin nodded in acknowledgment and led the others to her table.
“I’m glad you could make it. Please take a seat,” Emily greeted warmly. Nathan, who had appeared aloof earlier, perked up upon seeing Abigail and Azalea. He straightened up and tried to strike a handsome pose.
“Allow me to introduce my friends, Abigail Robinson and Azalea Larson.
“I hope you also don’t mind having them, Ms. Hoyles.” Dustin made a brief introduction.
“Of course not. The more, the merrier. Please, have a seat.” Emily smiled and gestured for them to
sit.
“Thank you.” Dustin nodded before settling into his seat.
He noticed several unfamiliar faces besides Emily and her friends. Judging from their clothes, they were also most likely from Azure Mist.
Even the weakest fighter among them was a low–level martial artist. They were stronger than ordinary martial artists.
But they were still no match for major guilds who would also be competing for the treasure.
“Mr. Rhys, have you prepared to enter the Black Forest?” Emily started the conversation.
“What preparations?” Dustin asked curiously.
“The forest is full of poisonous creatures and ferocious beasts, so it’s dangerous. You should carry antidotes, antivenoms, and other medicines before entering ” Emily explained.
“Things like insect repellents, compasses, and specially designed tents are also needed. They could be life–saving during emergencies.”
Abigail was bewildered. “Do we need all of that? We didn’t bring any.”
They had rushed over, so they only had a few personal belongings.
“It’s more like you’re here for a vacation, not a treasure hunt.” Emily teased.
Then she added, “But don’t worry. I’ve prepared all that for you. We won’t run out of supplies.”
“Really? That’s great! Thank you so much!” Abigail lit up, touched by the considerate gesture.
“However, these supplies are just a small part of the trip since the Black Forest won’t be our main
concern.
nale, we need to be cautious of our compenois. Cy stone grew serious.
She glanced at a group nearby. “See those people on the left? They’re from Ironfists and are known for their defense.
“All of them are powerful and claim to be immune to external injuries. We’ll be in trouble if we have to fight them.”
“Ironfists?” Dustin, Abigail, and Azalea turned to look at the muscular men enjoying their meal. The light reflected off their metal–like skin.
“Now, look to your left. That’s Skycrane, a major guild from Yuston.
“They often win battles with their clever tactics. So they’re also formidable opponents,” Emily explained.
“Behind me, you should see a bald man with tattoos on his head.
“He’s a ruthless killer known as the Skullsplitter. Few dare to provoke him.
“And do you see the blind elderly man in front of us? Don’t underestimate him just because he’s blind
“He’s far stronger than he seems. All of them are our competitors, so we must avoid fighting them until we locate the treasure.”
Emily provided detailed insight into the major guilds and powerful fighters. This helped Dustin and his friends avoid potential danger.
Dustin couldn’t help feeling impressed by her extensive knowledge.
