Three Kinds of Materials

Calvin and Raymond exchanged a look, seemingly in a silent argument. Finally, Calvin relented, sighing softly. "It's a plant called 'Star Brilliance Grass,' a mineral called 'Shadow Crystal,' and a fruit called 'Sun Fruit.' They have special effects in fighting Magic Beasts."

Calvin took out three small crystal bottles from his pocket and showed them to everyone. Each bottle contained a different sample, emitting a faint blue glow: a dark herb with star-shaped flowers, a transparent crystal with what looked like flowing stars inside, and a white fruit radiating a bright aura.

"These materials are crucial for the fortress's defensive formations," Calvin explained, but Jialan keenly noticed a flicker of unnaturalness in the old Mage's eyes.

Albert suddenly spoke up, "Forgive my bluntness, Master Calvin. These things are only found in Shadow Valley, which is said to be a gathering place for shadow creatures. Even mid-level Mages would face great danger going there. Why not..."

"Because time is of the essence," Raymond interrupted. He walked to the wall and pulled aside a map. "According to scout reports, Magic Beasts are gathering near Shadow Valley. We need to acquire a sufficient quantity of these materials before they become contaminated."

Jialan stared at the map, noticing that Shadow Valley was located deep within the Misty Forest, quite close to the central area, about a two-day journey from the fortress.

"The mission will depart tomorrow night," Raymond continued. "You will have one day to prepare. Everyone will receive a set of specialized stealth equipment and a Communication Crystal."

Calvin added, "Considering the mission's danger, each participant will receive a reward of 2,000 Jintana, a waiver for one military merit mission, and a mid-level magic item."

This generous offer made the Mages present exchange glances. Such a rich reward also indirectly confirmed the mission's perilous nature.

"Any other questions?" Argyle spoke for the first time, his gaze sweeping across everyone's faces before settling on Jialan.

Jialan gathered his courage and asked, "Sir, if these materials are so important, why not send more people?"

Argyle and Raymond exchanged a look before he replied, "The more people there are, the easier it is to be exposed. Five Mages plus a squad of elite soldiers is the most suitable configuration."

Raymond spoke last, "You may return to prepare now. Remember, the contents of tonight's discussion are absolutely confidential."

After leaving the stone house, Jialan walked alone on the path back to his quarters. Albert seemed to have other matters and had left in a hurry. The night breeze, carrying the unique scent of the forest, brushed against his face. The fortress under the moonlight appeared exceptionally tranquil. Yet, beneath this tranquility, he felt a sense of undercurrents.

"Star Brilliance Grass and Shadow Crystal, Sun Fruit..." Jialan softly repeated the names. He vaguely recalled seeing records of 'Sun Fruit' in some ancient text, but couldn't remember its specific use.

Upon returning to his room, Jialan began preparing for tomorrow's mission. He checked all his Magic Scrolls and potions; these items might save his life at a critical moment.

Just as he was organizing his belongings, a faint knock sounded at the door.

"Who is it?" Jialan asked alertly.

"It's me, Argyle," came the deep voice of the Light Knight from outside.

Jialan opened the door, and Argyle strode in.

"As an old friend," Argyle said directly, "I suggest you reconsider whether to accept this mission."

Jialan raised an eyebrow. "Why? Didn't you say that once you know the mission details, you can't refuse to carry it out?"

Argyle's eyes became exceptionally sharp. "Because Calvin didn't tell the whole truth. Star Brilliance Grass, Shadow Crystal, and Sun Fruit do exist, but they are not used to fight Magic Beasts at all."

"Then what are they used for?" Jialan pressed.

The Light Knight remained silent for a moment, then shook his head. "I'm not entirely sure either, but based on some intelligence I've gathered, this mission is extremely dangerous. If you give up the mission, I can use my family connections to exempt you from it."

Jialan fell into thought. Argyle's warning was indeed worth considering. A high-ranking Knight, holding the title of Viscount, with a father who was one of the Empire's eight Marquises, and yet he didn't know the military's objective. This indirectly reflected the mission's danger.

On the other hand, this might be his best chance to complete the military mission early and gain his freedom. The Little Green Bottle was like a ticking time bomb; the barracks were crowded and full of eyes, and it would eventually be discovered by someone with ulterior motives.

"Thank you for your reminder," Jialan finally said. "But I've decided to participate. I'll be careful."

Argyle looked at him deeply and sighed. "Alright. Since you've made up your mind, remember to stick close to me tomorrow. I am the commander of this mission. The depths of the Misty Forest... are far more dangerous than you imagine."

With that, he left the room.

At dawn, Jialan was meditating when he was once again awakened by a series of urgent knocks. He rubbed his sore waist and noticed that the sky outside was just beginning to lighten.

"Mage Jialan," a soldier's voice came from outside, "the commander requests all mission participants to gather at the armory to receive their equipment."

Jialan quickly dressed, checked the gear he had prepared last night, and followed the soldier to the armory.

The armory was located in the northwest corner of the fortress, a building constructed of heavy stone. When Jialan arrived, he found the other four Mages already present. Argyle and Raymond were standing before a long table, upon which several sets of equipment were neatly arranged.

"One stealth cloak and one Communication Crystal per person," Raymond said.

Argyle stepped forward and distributed a piece of parchment to each person. "This is a detailed map of Shadow Valley and the material collection sites. Remember, our primary objective is to collect materials, and try to avoid combat."

Jialan unfolded the parchment and found that it not only marked the route but also detailed various potential danger zones. One area, circled in red, was particularly striking: "Shadow Rift."

"When do we depart?" asked Ryan, a fire Mage in his thirties.

"At sunset," Argyle replied. "Magic Beasts are less active during the day, and scouts will clear a relatively safe path first. You have one day to familiarize yourselves with the new equipment and formulate a plan."

After leaving the armory, Jialan decided to go and bid farewell to Anna. He walked through the busy barracks and arrived at the Priests' quarters, only to find Anna preparing a large quantity of healing potions with several medical officers.