Cruzer's anger simmered as he clenched his fists, the memory of betrayal in the academy still raw. He knew he had to act, but he needed a plan. With the element of surprise on his side, he could potentially turn the tide against these criminals.
He was not a hero, even more so after his recent experience; his heart had turned cold. While remaining safe, he would try to screw things up for these guys. He wouldn't face the enemies outright. Instead, he would send a letter to the Adventurer's Guild and let them act on his behalf, while remaining totally anonymous.
He remained hidden, listening carefully to their conversation. The group was still discussing their nefarious plans, unaware of his presence.
"We'll move at dawn," the rough-voiced man said. "The caravan is expected to pass through the western route. That's where we'll set the trap."
The taller man nodded. "Good. We need to ensure everything goes smoothly. No mistakes this time."
Cruzer's mind raced as he formulated a plan. He would first return to the town, write a letter detailing his encounter without giving himself away, and then he would send the letter to the Adventurer's Guild.
He would screw these scumbags while not giving himself away. He wouldn't even pick the Nocturnal Mint today, to create the illusion that he never visited the forest, even if the Adventurer's Guild had accomplices who decided to check all the people that were in the forest during that time.
He would go to the guild's tavern located right opposite the guild building and have food just so he could have an alibi. If questioned why he didn't go to the forest, he could simply say that he was tired after his fight with the Nightfang Wolves, which would make sense as he was only a novice mystic and an E-rank adventurer.
With the plan set in his mind, he decided to quit his quest for today and return to the town discreetly. He moved silently, retracing his steps and avoiding any potential witnesses. The forest's darkness was his ally, and he used it to his advantage.
Back in town, Cruzer changed his outfit, donning a cloak and mask to hide his identity. He found a secluded spot where he could write the letter without being noticed. He carefully detailed the criminals' plan, their location, and the mention of Tessa, ensuring he included enough information for the guild to act swiftly.
Once the letter was complete, he sought out one of the orphans who sold flowers in the city. The boy, no older than ten, looked up at him with curious eyes as Cruzer handed him a few coins.
"Take this letter to the Adventurer's Guild," Cruzer instructed, keeping his voice low and masked. "After twenty minutes, make sure to give it to the receptionist lady and ask her to give it to the guild master as it is an urgent letter."
The boy nodded eagerly, pocketing the money. Cruzer watched him go, feeling a sense of satisfaction. He had played his part, and if he could screw the traitors, it would be fine; if not, at least he knew he tried. Now it was up to the guild to stop the criminals.
Cruzer changed his outfit back to normal and headed towards the guild's tavern. He ordered food and drinks and waited patiently to see if any commotion would occur inside the guild. After some time, he saw the orphan carry the letter inside and, as quickly as he came, he left. After 10 or so minutes, a commotion was heard inside the guild.
The guild quickly announced an emergency quest about subjugating the bandits. He smiled, knowing his plan had succeeded. He was preparing to return to his accommodation when suddenly the guild receptionist, who was off duty as she only worked during the day, called him. Her name was Jean, a blonde-haired beauty with a charming face.
She approached him with a concerned expression. "Cruzer, we need every available adventurer for this emergency quest. Most adventurers are either drunk or just returning from completing quests, tired. We need as much manpower as possible. Please, will you join us?"
This made Cruzer regret his decision of hanging around the tavern as he didn't really want to involve himself in this matter. However, declining now could raise suspicion and jeopardize his carefully constructed alibi, as no newbie would let go of the chance to take part in emergency quests, as they provided a substantial amount of rewards.
Taking a deep breath, he nodded. "Of course, Jean. I'll do what I can to help."
Jean's face brightened with relief. "Thank you, Cruzer. We need all the help we can get."
Cruzer followed her back into the guild hall, where the atmosphere was tense. Adventurers were gearing up, some looking tired but determined. The guild master, a burly man with a scar running down his face, was giving orders and organizing groups.
"Alright, listen up!" the guild master barked. "We have an urgent quest. A band of criminals is planning to ambush a merchant caravan on the western route at dawn. We need to move fast and intercept them before they can carry out their plan."
Jean handed Cruzer a set of coordinates. "These are the bandits' last known location. You'll be in Group C, led by Captain Reinhardt. Good luck."
Cruzer nodded, joining his assigned group. Captain Reinhardt was a seasoned adventurer, tall and muscular, with a no-nonsense demeanor. He gave Cruzer a brief nod of acknowledgment.
As soon as they were about to depart, a commotion broke out in the guild. One of the rising adventurer parties had just returned after completing their quest. This party, known as the Silver Hawks, was endorsed by the guild and consisted of five members: three males and two females, all adept mystics.
They had joined the guild only a month ago, but their rank had skyrocketed to D-rank. The leader of the Silver Hawks was a Peak Adept mystic named Kael, known for his towering frame and commanding presence.
His party was a well-balanced mix of skilled fighters: a resilient male warrior wielding a massive sword, a strong female warrior with heavy armor and a shield, a quick and agile rogue specializing in swift, poisoned strikes, a supportive healer adept in restorative and buff spells, and a versatile mage capable of channeling mana for powerful spells. Together, they formed a formidable team.
Kael approached the guild master, his eyes sharp and focused. "Guild master, we just returned from our quest. We heard about the emergency. We're ready to join the mission."
The guild master nodded approvingly.
"Excellent timing, Kael. Your party will be a great asset. Join Group A with Captain Marcus. We need to move out now."
Kael and his party quickly joined their assigned group.
As he watched them, he felt something was wrong, very wrong with the situation.