Chapter 237: First Mission [2]

The mission details were clear: exterminating the infestation of Rabbuks, rabbit-like monsters known for their voracious appetite and aggressive nature. Since it was the beginning of spring, their numbers had drastically increased, posing a threat to ordinary people and merchants traveling along the main road leading to Eldoria City.

The reward for the mission was high, a generous 500 points each, reflecting the danger and importance of the task.

"We should head out immediately," I suggested, checking the map on my bracelet. "The forest is about 20 kilometers from the city. It will take us about 20 minutes if he raid a carriage."

"Let's go," Aria agreed.

The Valmora Forest, where the Rabbuks had been sighted, was known for its dense foliage and diverse wildlife. We made our way out of the academy, hailed a carriage, and began the trek towards the forest. The road to the city was well-trodden, used frequently by merchants and travelers. As we walked, the conversation between us was sparse, both of us comfortable in the silence.

"It's strange how quickly the Rabbuks' numbers have grown," I mused aloud after a while.

"They mate during winter and their offspring emerge in spring," Aria explained. "But this year seems to be particularly bad."

"Ah, did you learn it in the Monsters 101 course?" I asked remembering she attended this in the first semester.

"Right. They are also most aggressive at this type of time. I think that's why the staff warned us." Aria explained.

"Hmm, then we should be extra careful. Can you tell me more about them?" I asked.

Then she told me what she knew about Rabbuks, their strength and weaknesses. We discussed the best ways to take care of them.

And finally, we reached the outskirts of Eldoria Forest. After paying the carriage we entered the forest and paused to assess our surroundings. The forest was lush and green, the trees towering above us. Maybe the main road wasn't that far, we could still hear the distant sounds of merchants and travelers.

"We should start by checking all the areas near the road," Aria suggested. "That's where the reports indicated the most sightings."

"Alright."

We moved silently, our senses alert. The forest was alive with the sounds of nature, but we kept our focus on finding the Rabbuks. It didn't take long before we spotted signs of their presence: tracks in the dirt and gnawed tree trunks. Well, it might be the work of other monsters but I believed in Aria's knowledge.

"Over there," Aria whispered, pointing ahead.

A group of Rabbuks, larger than ordinary rabbits on Earth, with sharp teeth and glowing eyes, were gathered near a small clearing. They were feasting on a carcass, their movements quick and aggressive.

'Hmm... There are about 35 or 40 of them. If one group has this many, it means the reports weren't exaggerated.'

I quickly assessed the situation, calculating the best approach. "We need to take them out swiftly before they scatter. Aria, can you cast an ice barrier to trap them?"

Aria nodded. "I can use the two start spell Ice Wall to encircle them. But it won't hold them for long. So we should follow up with our attacks quickly."

"Perfect. Then I'll use my movement technique to get in close and take out as many as I can. You may follow up with Ice Shards and Earth Bind to immobilize the rest."

With our plan set, we prepared for action. But before that, I put Noxy to a Aria's shoulder. Since she would attack from afar, Noxy would be more safe with her. Sёarᴄh the Novёlƒire.n(e)t website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

Aria's hands moved gracefully as she chanted the incantation for Ice Wall. The air around her grew colder, and a shimmering barrier of ice began to form around the unsuspecting Rabbuks.

"Now!" I whispered, activating my Shadow Glide. Just before the ice wall was formed, I moved towards the trapped creatures.

In an instant, I emerged from inside the ice barrier. The Rabbuks, momentarily startled, barely had time to react. My blade flashed as I struck with precision, cutting down several of the creatures in quick succession.

Aria's Ice Shards spell followed, sharp projectiles of ice raining down upon the Rabbuks. Her Earth Bind spell then activated, causing tendrils of earth to rise and ensnare the remaining creatures, preventing their escape.

The entire operation took no more than 15 seconds. The Rabbuks were caught off guard and overwhelmed by our coordinated assault. As the last of the creatures fell, I took a moment to catch my breath and survey the aftermath.

"Well done," I said, nodding to Aria. Having a capable and great mage as your partner was really good. "Let's gather some proof of our kills."

We quickly collected the necessary evidence, taking a the fangs and claws from the defeated Rabbuks to present to the Mission Hall as proof of our success. Once we were sure we had them, we prepared to move on.

"There are likely more groups nearby," I noted. "We should keep searching."

"Agreed. Let's stick to the plan and cover as much ground as we can."

We continued our search, moving methodically through the forest. The signs of Rabbuk activity were abundant, and it didn't take long before we encountered another group. We executed our plan once more, trapping and dispatching the creatures with efficiency.

By the time we had dealt with several more groups, the sun was beginning to set. Exhausted but satisfied with our efforts, we made our way back to the main road, our inventory rings filled with proof of our kills.

This is exactly like how an Adventurer Guild operates, though modified into the academy style.

Anyway, just as we were returning to the main road, I remembered the mission Aurelius and my sister took together.

'They should be around here then... Then we'll probably see them soon.'

As we reached the main road, the familiar sounds of merchants and travelers filled the air. The walk back to the carriage was a welcome respite from the intensity of the mission. The setting sun cast long shadows across the road, painting the world in hues of gold and orange.

Just as we approached the spot where we had initially arrived, I spotted a familiar figures in the distance. Aurelius, with his distinctive silver hair and confident stride, was walking alongside my sister, Aurelia. They seemed to be deep in conversation, their mission likely having brought them to the same area.

But what gained my attention was the girl standing between them.

'Guess the new arc starting just fine...'