Novel Full Chapter 414 Returning Home (2)
The notification blinked on Kain’s screen, its contents stark against the backdrop of his unease. He quickly scanned the text, Serena leaning in slightly to read over his shoulder.
A subtle sweet smell filled his mind briefly, distracting him from the text, but familiar words snapped him back into focus.
Location: Brightstar City, Southern Region.
Objective: A relic related to the Warring States Period has been found. Information about the Abyss and/or Abyssal creatures may be obtained.
Type of Relic: Unknown
Participants Required: Minimum of 5 Pathfinder members, including at least one 7-star beast-tamer or above.
Reward: 20,000 credits, additional hazard bonuses depending on the situation.
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Kain’s heart that was in his throat immediately dropped back down. Seeing the familiar city name, he’d initially thought there was an outbreak of the corrupted or some other life-or-death emergency in his hometown. Thankfully, it was just a new relic.
He immediately confirmed his participation and then used his newly obtained credits to exchange for some supplies that were recommended by the more senior Pathfinders and would come in hand during an emergency.
Although, he wished to buy some rare evolutionary materials, spiritual skills, weapons or even ‘special experience opportunities’ (whatever that was) that could greatly bolster his strength, aside from a weapon, the others can’t be converted instantly into strength. Considering that he had an urgent mission hanging over his head, he decided to exchange for other items that would increase his chances of survival.
Additionally, since Kain wasn’t required to attend a meeting for the mission or enter the relic right away, he had some family matters to take care of.
Given the chaos from the Abyssal creatures that was just bubbling beneath the surface and could erupt at any time, he wouldn’t feel comfortable leaving his family in Brightstar City right now while he went in the relic. After all, he’d heard cases of individuals being trapped in a relic for years. He wouldn’t want to risk that happening to him in these chaotic times.
He tasked Collin with buying more of the land adjacent to the one he already was raising the Clear Spring Wolves on and to build a new home for his relocating relatives (although they hadn’t agreed to the move yet).
Of course, Collin grumbled and complained the whole time about already being busy managing the new industries Kain now possessed—the spiritual beer, elemental Silkworm silk, the FMT pills. Kain’s fame had even led to him receiving endorsement requests and requests to attend important events. And all of these tasks and requests were being managed by Collin alone.
‘I guess I should really hire a personal assistant…’ Kain made a mental note.
After finalizing the land purchase and construction plans with Collin, Kain turned his attention back to his family.
His family in Brightstar City was relatively small, and the director had always been stubborn about staying put. But with the increasing reports of Abyssal activity, Kain knew he couldn’t afford to let the director and the children stay there unprotected.
Thankfully, after Kain explained the situation, although still extremely resistant, the director finally agreed to move to Dark Moon City.
By the time Kain met up with his team at the meeting point designated for the participants of Brightstar City mission, he felt more prepared—both mentally and physically. Especially, now that he didn’t have to worry about the safety of his loved ones. Collin had texted him that morning to confirm the safe arrival and settlement of his relatives in Dark Moon City.
Kain, as the rookie, had taken the initiative to arrive early and was the first at the location. It was at least another half an hour before the other team members began trickling in.
Kain was pleasantly surprised to see that Benji, his guide during the Pathfinder orientation, would be participating. It was nice to have at least one familiar face. The other 2 participants to arrive were both similar-looking women with red hair, likely sisters, named Claudia and Clara.
After waiting at the designated meeting point for close to one hour, the last member of their five-person team arrived—a tall, stern-looking woman from the Pathfinder branch named Nadia.
She was a 7-star beast-tamer and their de facto leader for this mission. Her contract beast, a massive indigo-grade spiritual creature that resembles a griffin, stood silently at her side, exuding a menacing aura.
Nadia wasted no time. “You’ve all read the mission briefing,” she said briskly. “Our objective is to explore the relic, assess its connection to the Abyss, and retrieve any information or items of value. This is a priority mission, so no unnecessary risks. Stick together, follow my orders, and we’ll get through this.”
The team nodded in unison, and Nadia signalled for the teleportation array to activate. The air around them hummed with energy as the light from the array grew brighter, enveloping them in a blinding glow.
When the light faded, the team found themselves standing on the outskirts of Brightstar City. The familiar streets stretched out before Kain, but something felt… off. The air was thick with tension, and the usual hustle and bustle of the city seemed subdued.
However, the last Kain had heard from his family, who had only evacuated yesterday, the news of the Abyss still hadn’t spread to here. So what was with the strange atmosphere?
“Did something major happen in the city lately?” Kain asked, as a native he was sensitive to the changes in the city. Although his family had moved, he still knew and cared for many of the locals, and so was concerned about the status of the city.
“Probably the relic,” Nadia said. “It may be a Historical echo. They have a way of affecting the area around them and the people in the surroundings unconsciously.”
Kain’s gaze lingered on the city for a moment before he followed the group.
As they approached the heart of the city, the streets grew quieter. Shops that were usually bustling with activity were closed, their shutters drawn tight. Only a few people moved about, their expressions wary and their steps hurried.