Adventurer's Investigation Log

After leaving the training ground, Ronan did not immediately return to the inn, but instead turned a corner and went to the Adventurers' Guild again.

The magic lamps in the hall were already lit, emitting a warm glow.

It is said that light bulbs that can be used without magic already exist in some places, but they have not yet reached Black Creek Town.

His gaze swept back and forth, and a request stuck in the corner caught Ronan's attention:

[Investigation Commission: Unusual activity in the area east of the rusted valley]

Commissioner: Adventurers' Guild

Grade Assessment: Iron

Summary: Recently, several hunters and herb gatherers operating on the eastern side of the Rusty Valley have reported unexplained impact sounds and tremors in the area, with the frequency gradually increasing.

In some areas, vegetation shows unnatural signs of decay and distortion, and the activity of low-level monsters (mainly goblins) has decreased sharply.

A preliminary investigation is required in the area to confirm the scope and nature of the abnormal signs and to determine whether there are any new monster threats, geological activities, or other unknown risks.

Requirements: Draw a brief map of the anomalous area, record specific phenomena (sounds, vibrations, vegetation, monster activity, etc.), and collect suspicious samples as evidence (such as anomalous soil, plants, and remains).

Note: In case of an insurmountable threat, evacuation and reporting should be the priority. It is recommended to have basic reconnaissance and self-defense capabilities.

Compensation: 2 silver coins and 50 copper coins. Additional compensation may be given for high-value information or collection of key samples.

The words "unusual activity" and "unknown risks" were pounding on Ronan's nerves.

This may not be related to the colorful adventure stories that everyone talks about, but it definitely fits the panel's interest in "Oddities".

You might reap a good reward.

There are definitely risks involved.

Complex terrain and unknown sources of disturbance mean an increased chance of encountering unexpected events or powerful monsters.

However, the iron-level assessment and the explicit requirement for "priority evacuation" indicate that the union also believed this was not a doomsday exploration, but rather an information gathering exercise.

With his current strength, Ronan felt it was worth a try.

Without much hesitation, Ronan reached out and peeled off the parchment.

The staff behind the counter checked his nameplate and mission records, and after reviewing Ronan's previous mission records, registered Ronan to accept the mission.

The panel pops up as you accept the quest.

[Mission Log Update]

[Current Task/Clue]:

Investigate abnormal activity in the area east of the rusted valley.

Task rewards: Depend on completion status

"Anomaly detected on the east side of the valley, Black Iron level, received."

"The mission has a ten-day timeframe. Please exercise extreme caution and report any unforeseen circumstances immediately. This is a map of the area."

The staff handed over a simpler sketch than a regular map, which only marked the approximate locations of the main stream, a few prominent stone forests, and ravines.

"Understood."

After leaving the guild, Ronan pondered for a while but did not choose to return to the inn to rest. Instead, he headed towards the commercial street.

Although it's called a commercial street, it's actually the only main road in Heixi Town with relatively complete paving.

Therefore, all kinds of shops with a little bit of capital will try their best to open a store here.

"bite."

The brass bell hanging on the door frame made a dull sound.

"That's all for today. We can talk about anything else tomorrow."

Bern, the owner of the "Anvil and Herbs" shop, straightened up from behind the counter, his tone tinged with weariness and impatience.

Every day, guys like this come to the store after closing time, and they always ask for very troublesome jobs.

Although it earns a lot, it's also very hard work.

Bourne wasn't worried that his bad attitude would cause him to lose customers.

There's no other reason than their superior craftsmanship and the large number of adventurers.

Byrne could confidently say that he was one of the best blacksmiths in town.

He also works part-time as a herbalist.

However, Bourne was somewhat surprised when he saw who it was.

"It's you."

"Who was that again?"

Byrne still remembers the young man who stood in his shop a few days ago, looking conflicted.

Although only a few days have passed, there have been significant changes.

First, there's his appearance. Although he's still not considered tall, he's much more robust than he was a few days ago.

It wasn't a sudden weight gain, but rather a very even increase in size, about two sizes larger.

The outline of the muscles can be vaguely seen through the clothes.

Secondly, there's the mental outlook.

When Ronan first arrived at the store, he looked like a frightened cub, with an inexplicable wariness of his surroundings, as if he might breathe fire at any moment.

But now he's more composed, and has a bit of an adventurer's air about him.

The changes are quite significant.

My name is Ronan.

Ronan strode forward, piled his gear on the counter, and said:

"Boss Bourne, I've accepted an exploration mission."

"We're heading to the east side of the valley. I heard it's a bit dangerous, so we're planning to resupply here before we set off."

"It's about equipment repair and replenishing items like fire starters."

Before Bourne could speak, Ronan quickly stated his purpose.

Although I've been traveling alone these past few days, I've also gleaned a lot of previously unknown information from other adventurers.

For example, the Adventurers' Guild usually has three receptionists on duty in shifts. The young and gentle woman, who cares about adventurers but has poor adaptability to emergencies, is Lyra. The older woman, with a serious and meticulous personality, is Ella, who will have guards throw out any loud and boisterous guys.

They are half-sisters, but they have a good relationship.

The remaining man was named Adrian, a former adventurer who was said to have performed exceptionally well in a mission but was seriously injured and unable to continue as an adventurer.

As compensation, the Adventurers' Guild temporarily assigned him to work as a receptionist here, a job that offered a stable income and a clear path for advancement.

As for the owner of Bourne...

Although he looks fierce, he is actually a very nice person. He seems to have been a soldier or something similar in the past, and is suspected to be a professional.

When you encounter difficulties, say some nice things and ask your boss for help; usually, the boss will help you.

Including some outdoor supplies, if you don't know how to prepare them or find it troublesome, you can ask Mr. Byrne for help; his shop has everything.

"Thank you so much, Mr. Byrne!"

Following the words the adventurer had told him yesterday, Ronan clasped his hands together and said loudly.

"Tsk."

Bourne remained silent, glanced at Ronan's equipment a few times, sighed unhappily, and finally said:

"Two silver coins for equipment repair, and 50 copper coins for supplies. Come pick them up tomorrow morning."

So expensive!

Ronan's eyelids twitched, but seeing Bourne's "you dare to bargain or I'll punch you twice" expression, he finally took out two silver coins and fifty copper coins and placed them on the table.

"Alright, let's go."

After accepting the silver coins, Bourne impatiently waved his hand, signaling Ronan to leave quickly.

I'll be busy until very late again tonight.

Although he didn't have anything planned for the evening, he was still annoyed.

Watching Ronan's departing figure, Bourne thought for a moment and then rummaged through the counter.

"Where was it again?"

"Found it."

Berne unearthed a thick herbal medicine book, which recorded most of the medicinal materials available on the market and their basic effects.

Putting on glasses that were slightly smaller than his actual size, Bourne opened the herbal collection and began searching.

"Okay, this is it."

Finally, his gaze settled on a small herb.