Wizard starting from shoeing donkeys Chapter 1477 - 507: Terrio’s Decision (3)

The reason for his selection was likely due to Haleem’s report, which noted that High Rank Fire Witchcraft possessed a distinct advantage in suppressing the black fog found within the ruins.

"I am not the only one; Lord Garrett is scheduled to arrive within the hour as well."

"Hmm? It appears the Military Department has more than just a simple inquiry in mind this time," Terrio remarked, his brow furrowing.

Alvin would have been an illogical choice if the objective was merely to gather information.

Furthermore, mobilizing two Epic level powerhouses simultaneously suggested that the Military Department had significant ulterior motives regarding the current situation.

"Indeed, Lord Terrio. We are not here solely to listen to your account of the events, but also to request your participation in the preliminary exploration. To be clear, this is a mandate from the Federation Congress, not merely a personal request of mine."

While speaking, Alvin passed a written note over to Terrio.

"If the Congress has made this decision, I shall do my utmost to cooperate," Terrio said, nodding after a brief scan of the document.

Despite his words, a sense of dread began to pool in his heart.

A preliminary exploration? Something felt inherently wrong.

Before Terrio could voice his doubts, Alvin spoke up first to ask:

"Lord Terrio, is it true that returning through the exit you used is impossible? If my information is correct, that was gate number three, which connects directly to the second basement level of the Floating City, correct?"

"That is true, but the door is incredibly resilient, and our departure set off the alarm systems. Attempting to re-enter could bring us face-to-face with unknown hostiles," Terrio explained with a grim expression.

"That is unfortunate. It looks like we will have to fight our way down from the upper levels to reach the third basement level."

"What? You intend to go to the third basement level?" Terrio's eyes widened as he stared at Alvin in shock.

"But of course. Surely, Lord Terrio, you didn't assume Lord Garrett and I were just loitering? Reaching the third basement level is merely a minor objective," Alvin replied, sounding slightly irritated.

"Stop joking, Lord Alvin. You have no conception of the level of danger lurking down there."

"Not at all! Unless your intel is flawed, the most formidable mechanical foe you faced was the Prototype. Lord Garrett’s lightning spells can easily disable mechanical monsters across a wide radius, and as for those creatures born of the black fog, I will handle them."

"Given the composition of our team, I am confident we can uncover the deeper mysteries of these Floating City Ruins. Don't you agree, Lord Terrio?"

"I do not! You haven't actually stepped foot inside. Even if the Federation Congress has decreed this, I maintain the right to make my own choices. At most, I will guide you to the entrance of the second basement level; after that, I am done. That is my final word."

Sword Saint Terrio vividly recalled the warning Rein had given him.

He had been told specifically not to venture into the third basement level without absolute certainty of success.

Furthermore, Terrio had no personal interest in diving deeper into the Floating City Ruins. As a Sword Saint, it was highly unlikely that further exploration would yield anything capable of increasing his combat prowess.

What troubled him most was the arrogance of Alvin and the Military Department's team.

By dismissing the trek to the third basement level as a "small target," it was clear they were severely underestimating the hidden perils within the ruins.

"If that is your stance, Lord Terrio, then we won't bother you with the rest of the mission. I shall suggest to the Military Department that they send for Sword Saint Guiterrez instead."

Alvin’s face darkened as he spoke.

Guiterrez?

The mention of that name caused Terrio’s face to twist with anger.

Every warrior in the Federation was aware of the bitter rivalry between him and Guiterrez; the threat of being replaced by his enemy was a blatant provocation.

"Fine, then. I shall take my leave. I wish you the best of luck, Lord Alvin."

Fuming with indignation, Terrio threw out a final remark and walked away.

....