The morning at the guild was more lively than usual. Adventurers from various regions gathered, sharing stories of their recent missions or planning their next adventures. Amidst the bustling crowd, Raven and Sylvia sat at their usual table, studying a large map spread out before them.
Raven meticulously analyzed every detail of the map. It was a map he had acquired during his investigations at the royal library, containing crucial information about territories not yet fully under his control. Every town, village, and fortress marked on the map was a potential target in his plan to expand his power.
Sylvia sat beside him, silent and obedient, waiting for instructions. Her face was calm, but her eyes shone with deep respect for Raven, as if he were someone to follow without question.
"I want us to focus on this area," Raven said, pointing to a northern region surrounded by mountains. "It's a strategic location, and from what I've learned, there's an independent adventurers' guild there that's quite powerful. They're not part of the guilds we control here, and their influence could become a threat."
Sylvia nodded, understanding Raven's intent. "What's your plan, Ironclad?"
Raven gave a slight smile. "We will infiltrate that guild, gain their trust, and eventually take over from within. Just like we did here, but this time, we must be more careful. They've likely heard of my reputation, so we must ensure there's no suspicion."
"System," Raven whispered in his mind, calling up the interface to plan his next move.
[System]
Available Quest: Infiltrate and Take Over the Northern Guild (Reward: 150 Evolution Points, Skill Steal)
"Accept this quest," Raven commanded in his mind.
[System]
Quest Accepted: Infiltrate and Take Over the Northern Guild
Raven observed the notification calmly. This was a significant opportunity to solidify his control over a new territory, and the quest's rewards were not to be underestimated. The Skill Steal ability would be a valuable tool, allowing him to take abilities from enemies without direct confrontation.
Raven looked at Sylvia with a calculating gaze. "You will be my spearhead in this, Sylvia. You'll lead the infiltration. With your reputation as a skilled adventurer, they won't be too suspicious. I'll support you from behind, ensuring everything goes according to plan."
Sylvia looked at Raven with unwavering determination. "I won't let you down, Ironclad. Whatever you need, I'll do it."
"Good," Raven said, feeling confident that the virus within Sylvia was working perfectly. There was no doubt or resistance, only complete loyalty. "We'll leave tomorrow morning. Make sure you're ready."
That night, Raven returned to his room with his mind filled with plans. Every step he took brought him closer to his ultimate goal, and he knew there was no room for mistakes. As he pondered, the system in his mind provided another notification.
[System]
Available Evolution Points: 50 Available Upgrade: Skill Steal (Can steal from defeated enemies or directly through physical contact).
Raven activated the new skill, feeling satisfied with the added power. However, he knew there was still much to do. The northern region was not just a target; it was a test for Sylvia, to see if she could truly be relied upon as a key piece in his grand scheme.
The next morning, Raven and Sylvia set out early. They traveled the long road north, passing through forests and valleys. The air grew colder as they approached the mountains, and the path they followed became increasingly difficult.
During the journey, Raven used the opportunity to further test Sylvia's loyalty and capabilities. They discussed their plans, the tactics they would use, and how they would handle any challenges that might arise.
As they neared their destination, Raven turned to Sylvia, his tone serious. "I want you to understand one thing, Sylvia," he said. "In this mission, there is no room for mistakes. We need to play smart, gain their trust, and make them believe we're on their side. But at the same time, we must be ready to destroy them the moment it becomes necessary."
Sylvia nodded, fully grasping the gravity of the task ahead. "I understand, Ironclad. I will do whatever it takes."
Raven gave a slight smile. "I know you will."
They arrived at a small village nestled at the foot of the mountains, where the guild they were targeting was located. The village appeared peaceful, but Raven knew that beneath its surface, there was power that could pose a serious threat if not properly handled.
Raven and Sylvia entered the village calmly, blending in with the locals who were busy with their daily activities. Their goal was to find the leader of this guild and begin building the relationships necessary to infiltrate it.
They approached a large building that seemed to serve as the guild's headquarters. The structure was made of stone and wood, with the guild's emblem prominently displayed at the entrance. Sylvia eyed the building carefully before turning to Raven.
"What's our first move?" she asked.
"We go in and meet their leader," Raven replied. "We show them our skills, impress them, and start building trust. From there, we'll develop our plan further."
They entered the guild headquarters, greeted by a warm yet cautious atmosphere. A few adventurers inside turned to look at them, assessing the newcomers. Raven remained calm, allowing Sylvia to take the lead.
Sylvia stepped forward, addressing a tall man with a thick beard who seemed to be the guild leader. "We're adventurers from the south. We've heard that this guild is the strongest in the region, and we're interested in joining."
The man scrutinized Sylvia and Raven with a discerning gaze, but eventually nodded. "We're always open to brave and skilled adventurers. But of course, you'll have to prove yourselves first."
Raven gave a small nod to Sylvia, who immediately stepped forward and offered to demonstrate her abilities in the guild's training arena. The sparring session began quickly, with Sylvia showcasing her exceptional sword skills. Every move she made was swift and precise, impressing everyone who watched.
Meanwhile, Raven observed closely, ensuring that everything was proceeding according to plan. He knew this was just the beginning of their infiltration, and there were still many steps to take before they could fully control the guild.
When the training session ended, the guild leader looked impressed. "You both have remarkable talent. We could certainly use people like you here."
Raven smiled beneath his helmet. "Thank you. We're ready to give our best for this guild."
After the impressive training session, Raven and Sylvia were invited to join the guild members in the main hall, a large room filled with long wooden tables and leather chairs. The hall was filled with adventurers from various backgrounds, chatting and sharing stories about their missions. In the corner, a large fireplace radiated warmth, providing a cozy atmosphere that contrasted with the cold air outside.
Raven calmly observed his surroundings, analyzing every detail that could give him an advantage. He knew that infiltrating this guild was not just about physical strength, but also about building trust and manipulating the people within it.
The guild leader, the bearded man who introduced himself as Baldric, directed them to the main table where the senior members were gathered. Baldric looked at Raven and Sylvia with curious eyes, trying to understand their motives.
"It's rare to see adventurers like you coming from the south," Baldric said, pouring ale into their mugs. "What brings you to this region?"
Sylvia, following Raven's instructions, spoke with a calm yet confident demeanor. "We heard about the strength of this guild and its reputation in the northern region. We want to join a strong and influential group, and this seems like the right place."
Baldric nodded, seemingly satisfied with Sylvia's answer. "We do need more strong adventurers like you. This region is never short of threats, from the monsters in the mountains to enemies trying to take our land."
Raven, who had remained silent and observant, finally spoke. "We bring not only physical strength but also experience and strategy. If you need it, we can help strengthen this guild's position in the wider region."
Baldric's eyes lit up at the offer. "Strategy, you say? That's something we could use. This guild is strong, but we're always looking for ways to expand our influence."
Raven gave a slight smile beneath his helmet. "That's something we can discuss further. I'm sure we can be mutually beneficial."
Their conversation was interrupted when the door to the hall swung open forcefully, and a woman entered with swift steps. Her long silver hair swayed as she walked, and an aura of coldness and authority surrounded her. She stood out from the other adventurers in the room, with attire that signified a high status within the guild.
Baldric immediately stood up, introducing the woman with a tone of respect. "This is Lady Elara, one of our guild's strongest fighters. She oversees many of our most important missions."
Raven observed Elara with particular interest. This woman clearly held significant power and influence within the guild, and Raven knew that gaining her trust could be a crucial key in his plans. However, she could also become a major threat if not handled properly.
Elara approached, her sharp eyes scrutinizing Raven and Sylvia. "So, you're the new adventurers who wish to join our guild?" her voice was cold yet filled with confidence.
Sylvia nodded politely. "Yes, Lady Elara. We came from the south seeking new challenges and to contribute to this guild."
Elara did not respond immediately, instead assessing them with a calculated gaze. After a few moments, she finally spoke again. "Baldric seems impressed with you, but I don't easily trust strangers. If you want to be part of this guild, you'll have to prove yourselves beyond mere words."
Raven recognized this as a crucial moment. If he could win over Elara, their path would be much smoother. "We are ready for any challenge, Lady Elara. We didn't just come to join, but to bring something valuable to this guild."
Elara narrowed her eyes, weighing Raven's words. After a moment, she spoke again. "Alright, let's see how tough you really are. Tomorrow, there's a critical mission to clear out a monster den in the mountains. If you can complete that mission and return with proof, I'll consider you full members of this guild."
Raven nodded firmly. "We'll do it."
After that, Baldric and the others resumed their casual conversations, while Raven and Sylvia sat and listened. Though the atmosphere seemed relaxed, Raven remained vigilant. He knew that tomorrow's mission was the real test, not just to prove their strength but to gain the full trust of this guild.
That night, Raven and Sylvia returned to their room in a nearby inn. The room was simple, with wooden furniture and a small window overlooking the snow-covered mountains. Here, they could speak more freely without fear of being overheard.
"You know tomorrow's mission is a test, right?" Raven asked, sitting in a chair near the window, gazing out.
Sylvia nodded. "Yes, Ironclad. But I'm not worried. I know we can do it."
Raven gave a slight smile. "This isn't just about defeating monsters. It's about earning their trust. And for that, we need to make sure we not only return victorious but also make them see us as an indispensable part of this guild."
"System," Raven whispered in his mind, calling up the interface to check his status.
[System]
Evolution Points Available: 100 Skills Available for Upgrade: Blade Inferno, Aetherial Fortress
Raven considered his options. He knew that enhancing his power now would give him a significant advantage when facing the monsters tomorrow. However, he also wanted to ensure that every step he took was calculated and strategic.
"Upgrade Aetherial Fortress," he commanded.
[System]
Aetherial Fortress Upgraded to: Aetherial Dominion
Description: A tremendously powerful energy shield capable of withstanding massive attacks, protecting the user and surrounding allies with a significantly wider range.
Raven felt a new surge of energy coursing through him, giving him confidence that he could face whatever came his way the next day. However, he knew that power alone wouldn't be enough. He needed to be smart, play his role perfectly, and ensure that everyone in this guild started seeing him as a natural leader.
"Sylvia," Raven called, catching her attention. "Tomorrow, we need to work together flawlessly. I'll use my new power to protect us, while you focus on the attack. We need to impress Elara and Baldric. They must see us as indispensable allies."
Sylvia looked at Raven with unwavering confidence. "I understand, Ironclad. I'll follow your plan."
That night, they rested with clear minds, preparing themselves for the crucial mission ahead. Raven knew that this mission was a significant step in his plan to take over the guild, and he was determined not to make any mistakes.
The next morning, the cold air blanketed the village as Raven and Sylvia prepared for their mission. They met with Elara and several other adventurers at the village gates, ready to set out for the mountains.
Elara looked at them with a serious expression. "Remember, this isn't just about strength, but also about intelligence. The monsters in these mountains are cunning and dangerous. If you can handle this, then we'll talk further about your future in the guild."
Raven nodded. "We're ready."