"Everything looks to be in order. You are now officially registered for the operation to retake the old capital." Vivi said, looking quite pleased.
After a bit of careful consideration, Marcus figured that there were more positives than negatives to accepting the mission. They would almost certainly become privy to information that would have been difficult to obtain on their own and having a large force to draw the attention of the hordes of undead that resided in the city would be incredibly beneficial.
As for the fact that technically the ghost king's core would belong to the kingdom of Houten, Marcus figured it would be fine to ignore that clause in the agreement. Even if they were found out, he imagined that the worst that would happen was needing to pay a fine and getting reprimanded by the guild.
"Thank you for speeding along this process Vivi. Now if you would not mind showing us to the guild hall's exit, we will be on our way."
"Oh, I was just doing my job." Vivi said with a quick bow. "Ah, but your party is not from Houten, so if you want, I can arrange for transportation and a guide. You'll be expected in Fortress City Armadura within ten days, and I would hate for any of you to get lost on your way."
Marcus was about to turn down Vivi's offer, but Mrazivý stopped him with a quick telepathic communication.
'It's true that we could probably arrive faster if we just go by ourselves, but where is the fun in that. Even if we arrive at Armadura tomorrow, we will just be stuck waiting around until things get started. There is no need for us to rush around everywhere. A slow leisurely journey is not bad every once in a while.'
Seeing the pleading look on Mrazivý's face, Marcus agreed to accept Vivi's offer of a guide and a ride.
"Of course, we would be happy to have an expert on the area show us around, and it is true that we don't have a vehicle, so transportation would be appreciated."
"Understood, I will get that prepared for you if you just wait here for a little while."
Like a whirlwind Vivi then left the room.
"We certainly are receiving the royal treatment here." Lilia commented once Vivi was gone.
"Yeah, back in Borealia the guild staff never acted like this." Alaric said, agreeing with Lilia.
"I think it is likely just because of the current circumstances. The guild hasn't been established here for very long so there are likely not many strong native adventurers. They are probably counting a lot on foreign adventurers to add the extra manpower they need to take back their lost city. On paper our group here possesses three mithril rank adventurers, two platinum ranks, and six gold ranks.
Even though they don't know what our true capabilities are, they can tell that we are a party that brings with it a great deal to the table. It only makes sense that they would want to give us a warm welcome if it means we will lend our strength to their cause." Miguel said, giving his explanation for their stellar treatment.
'Looks like we are getting closer to the true reason she wants us to join this caravan. Still, I feel like there is something else.'
With a bit more effort Marcus was eventually able to get Vivi to spill everything.
The main reason she wanted them to join the caravan was because it currently lacked sufficient protection by a wide margin. Most of the capable combatants that were normally within or around the city had headed off to Armadura to participate in the upcoming operation.
This had left the city with far less personnel in it than usual, and criminals that normally slinked in the shadows had become bolder. There were apparently often attacks in broad daylight lately and the skeleton crew of guards that remined to police the capital had their hands full.
"Just last week a group of ruffians made off with a shipment of mithril ingots and have yet to be caught. This only encouraged other criminals to act up and try to earn an ill-gotten fortune. Even some normally law-abiding citizens that are down on their luck have been caught resorting to thievery since so many of the city's veteran guards went with the army to Armadura.
I'm just worried about my uncle, which is why I was hoping to get your party to join up with his caravan. I am sorry for trying to mislead you all."
Vivi bowed her head deeply and apologized to Marcus and his companions. She then told them that she would make other arrangements for them to travel to Armadura.
Yet, before she left the room, Marcus topped her.
"No, I think we will go with the caravan. It is not like you lied to us at any point, even if you did hide some information. There really aren't any other groups that are going to be traveling to our destination in the next few days, correct?"
"Yes, the one my uncle is a part of is the only one leaving in the next few days. There is another one scheduled to depart in five days, but it would likely not deliver you to Armadura on time. Of course, I can rent some carriages and coachmen for your party if that is what you want. You really don't need to join the caravan."
"As I said, we will be fine acting as guards for the caravan your uncle is a part of. It's been a while since we have done any escort work, and it could serve as a good change of pace." Marcus said. He could see enthused looks on several of his companions' faces. It seemed that they were excited to have the opportunity to travel with a large group and beat-up on some thieves.
"I cannot thank you all enough. Of course, the pay I quoted you is accurate. Though, I can probably get more if you feel it is necessary." Vivi said.
"No that is not necessary. The amount being offered is already nearly double the usual rate for adventurers of our ranks. If you could direct us towards a good inn, that will be enough."
"Okay, I will go and book rooms at the best inn in the city." Vivi said, rushing out of the room.
When she returned, she informed them that she had reserved four large suites for them at a heavy discount since she was good friends with the owner's wife.