Wizard starting from shoeing donkeys Chapter 1479 - 508: Return Journey and Unexpected Events (Part 2)

Furthermore, because he, Elvin, and Guiterrez share a background in military service, they possess a more natural foundation for working together.

"Even so, we must remain somewhat guarded since we lack an epic-level specialist who is familiar with the terrain to lead the way."

"That goes without saying. Nevertheless, Lord Gatler, there is no need for concern. During the previous expedition, Lord Hernandez found his water witchcraft suppressed by the ruins' environment, which crippled his combat effectiveness. Our situation is different."

"The Military Department specifically selected the three of us to handle the unique conditions of the Floating City Ruins, as our abilities complement one another. Consequently, I am confident our results will far surpass those of the last group."

"I see. I have heard rumors that Rein, that young powerhouse from the Empire, is a rare Metal Series Dawn Wizard?"

"Hehe, perhaps he is. However, as I see it, the most useful thing a Metal Series Dawn Wizard can do in that place is punch a couple of holes through the Floating City’s metallic hull," Elvin remarked with a mocking grin.

"Lord Guiterrez, in his capacity as a Sword Saint, should be able to accomplish that feat just as easily."

"Besides, we have the blueprints, so we can utilize the standard entrance even if it takes a bit more time."

"Hmm, I feel much more at ease knowing Lord Elvin has prepared so meticulously," Gatler added, nodding with a smile.

"Indeed, Lord Gatler. My plan is for us to depart as soon as Lord Guiterrez arrives tomorrow. What are your thoughts?"

"That is acceptable."

...

Meanwhile, Rein had already reached Zetaya. He was currently situated on the top floor of a skyscraper alongside Haleem, sipping Bordeaux wine while gazing out at the vast, emerald landscape in the distance.

Hernandez, on the other hand, had already departed from Zetaya to continue toward the Andor Duchy, where their next objective lay.

"Dean Haleem, your explanation regarding the standard puppets and demon statues used in ancient goblin engineering was truly eye-opening," Rein said with a smile, lifting his glass toward Haleem in a gesture of gratitude.

Rein’s words were far from empty flattery.

He had genuinely made progress.

Regarding his advancement to Goblin Engineer (Legendary), the third requirement—‘master knowledge related to goblin engineering’—now displayed a progress value of 28%.

While Haleem might not have been a master of battle, his depth of academic research was undeniably impressive.

"Lord Rein, you are being too modest. Given your natural brilliance, you only need to glance at this information to grasp it," Haleem replied with a complimentary smile.

He wasn't just being polite, either.

Prior to their discussion on goblin engineering, Haleem had assumed that someone as young and powerful as Rein must have funneled every ounce of his energy into witchcraft and spiritual power.

Much to his surprise, a brief conversation revealed that Rein possessed a profound understanding of the subject!

When the topic turned to the practical difficulties of constructing various puppets, Rein was able to contribute seamlessly, proving he had actual hands-on experience.

This realization left Haleem in a state of shock!

He found it hard to believe that someone could possess such overwhelming combat strength while also being an expert in the intricate research of puppetry techniques.

"Regardless, I must thank Lord Haleem. I hope we can continue our discussion on these matters after we finish dinner."

"Of course, but... Lord Rein, the representatives from the Zetaya Administrative Hall have been waiting for us for quite some time. Perhaps we should move to the banquet now?" Haleem suggested with a smile, pointing toward a round table where several officials had been waiting patiently for over ninety minutes.

Noticing Haleem and Rein looking their way, the officials stood up immediately, offering polite bows and welcoming smiles.

"Very well," Rein agreed, nodding with a smile.

Although he found such social gatherings tedious, he was willing to attend for Haleem's sake.

However, just as they were rising from their seats, a familiar voice echoed from the entrance: "So this is where you've been hiding."

"Lord Terrio?" Both Rein and Haleem looked up in surprise at the muscular figure that had appeared in the doorway.

"Shouldn't you be at the Floa... over there?" Haleem asked reflexively.

He quickly caught himself, noticing the staff from the Zetaya City Administrative Hall, and adjusted his words.

"Don't even get me started; that Elvin fellow was there, and I had no desire to stay," Sword Saint Terrio said, waving his hand to dismiss the unimportant bystanders.

"Oh? Elvin is the one who arrived?" Haleem was certainly familiar with that man's reputation.

"Yes, along with Gatler and the soon-to-arrive Guiterrez. They intend to explore the deeper levels of the Floating City Ruins, so I decided not to join their little game," Terrio explained with a shrug.

"Explore the deeper levels? Are these people exceptionally powerful?" Rein asked, his curiosity piqued.

"They're alright. One is a Fire Element Dawn Wizard, another is a rare Thunder System Dawn Wizard, and Guiterrez has strength roughly equal to my own," Terrio answered.

Rein found this even more confusing.

Was the Federation really so reckless? Were they truly willing to throw away Dawn Wizards on such a dangerous expedition?

Even he didn't dare to venture down to the negative third floor yet.

Considering the power of the entities in the prison sector, if those three were only as strong as Terrio claimed, they might manage to kill the ancient Minotaurs and the other corrupted beings, but without some incredible secret weapon, they would be no match for the black fog claw monsters.

"Lord Terrio, did you not warn them about the lethal dangers inside?"