"First things first, we did well in placing adventurers undercover in the Kingdom of Naeva to thwart Kaelzar’s plans," Arthur said. "Second, this village is close to the Darkwoods. If what Kurimaw and Kalisto said is true about Kaelzar’s base being hidden there, then we have the chance to take the initiative."

Elyssia nods thoughtfully, her crystalline eyes reflecting the weight of their mission. "Arthur makes a valid point. If we can reach Kaelzar's stronghold before he launches his invasion, we might be able to disrupt his plans or even capture him."

She turns to Carlos, her gaze sharp and unwavering. "However, we can't afford to underestimate Kaelzar’s power or the dangers lurking within the Darkwoods. We need a solid strategy and the right people for the job."

Sensing an opportunity to contribute, Mixarnt pipes up, "Hey, I can scout ahead! I'm fast and sneaky, and I know plenty of tricks to avoid detection. I bet I could find the entrance to Kaelzar's base!"

Arthur chuckles, shaking his head with amusement. "Mixarnt, you’re like a little ninja, aren’t you?"

Elyssia allows a small smile—a rare sight given the circumstances. "Well, it’s worth considering."

Before they could discuss further, Carlos speaks up, his expression serious. "Before we make any plans, I need to know—Arthur, Elyssia, both of you are Sapphire-ranked adventurers, and Granbold is Ruby rank. Most of the other adventurers here are Emerald rank, but do we have any other Ruby or Sapphire ranks among us?"

He knew that if they were going to minimize casualties and stand a real chance against Kaelzar’s forces, they needed more high-ranking adventurers on their side.

Arthur rubs his chin, considering Carlos' question. "Let's see... aside from Grimbold, we have Lila, our excellent rogue. She's a Ruby rank as well."

Elyssia nods in agreement, absentmindedly adjusting the intricate lace trim on her cloak. "Yes, Lila’s skills will be invaluable for this mission. She’s one of our most versatile and reliable operatives."

Her gaze shifts to Mixarnt, curiosity flickering in her icy-blue eyes. "As for Sapphire rank, besides Arthur and myself, there's also Elara, our skilled cleric. She’s been crucial in keeping our party alive and maintaining morale in dire situations."

With a thoughtful expression, Elyssia adds, "We may not have an overwhelming number of high-ranking adventurers, but what we lack in numbers, we make up for in skill, strategy, and teamwork."

Carlos surveyed the gathered adventurers, roughly fifty in number. The fact that Kaelzar's operations were still within the borders of Naeva meant that the other kingdoms remained unaffected—for now. They hadn't even bothered to send military support or aid, despite knowing that the continental prison had been destroyed.

Meanwhile, the main branch of the Adventurers' Guild had classified Kaelzar as an SSS-rank criminal, yet only a handful of adventurers had been willing to take on the quest. The ones standing here now were the brave few who had answered the call.

"Everyone," Carlos began, his voice firm and resolute. "Those of you ranked Emerald and below—this mission carries grave risks. We cannot guarantee your safety. However, I promise you this: we will win. No sacrifice will be in vain. But I need each of you to swear that you won’t take reckless risks or throw your lives away. If you choose to run, we won’t judge you. But for those who stand and fight—let’s show them what we’re made of!"

With that, Carlos raised his fist, letting out a battle cry that echoed through the village. The assembled adventurers erupted into a mix of cheers, laughter, and nervous energy at his impassioned speech. Some exchanged hopeful glances, while others tightened their grips on their weapons, steeling themselves for the battles ahead.

Elyssia observed the scene with a subtle smile, her pride evident as she watched her companions' unwavering resolve. "Well said, Carlos," she commended, her voice firm and authoritative. "We stand together—not just as adventurers, but as allies united by our shared goal of defeating Kaelzar and protecting countless lives."

"Wow. Wonder where he learned that," Mixarnt mused casually.

Arthur chuckled, shaking his head. Mixarnt had no idea that Carlos was once the Knight Captain of Naeva. To him, Carlos was just a perverted man with a chain fetish—after all, when Mixarnt first found him in the continental prison, Carlos had been chained up all alone. He clapped Mixarnt on the shoulder, chuckling at the boy’s casual remark about Carlos' battle cry. "Don't worry, kid," the seasoned mage warrior said with amusement. "Our leader has more tricks up his sleeve than you realize. Just stick close, follow orders, and we'll get through this together."

"Wait, he's the leader now? Wasn't Elyssia just annoyed at him earlier and... uh... never mind. Let's go!" Mixarnt said casually, gripping his wooden sword.

With that, the group hurried toward the Dark Forest. Once there, Mixarnt, assigned as the scout, swiftly got to work. Navigating the dense terrain with ease, he moved silently through the shadows, his experience in the wilderness evident—an expertise he had never openly displayed to others before.