Chapter 107: Journey to Silverdale
"You’re certain this blacksmith is worth a four-day journey?" Huangyan asked as she supervised the loading of their travel bags onto the carriage.
Grim nodded, reviewing Lady Mei’s detailed notes on Mistress Bella Cleanrott one final time before tucking the documents into his inner pocket. "Her specialty in wind and water mana infusion.
Chen Xing approached, carrying a sealed leather case. "The latest shipping manifests from the southern ports. The merchant guild has been surprisingly prompt in providing the information you requested."
"Fear is an effective motivator," Grim replied, accepting the case. "Any word from the terraformers?"
"They’ve begun preliminary work," Chen Xing confirmed. "The main house’s outer buildings are already being dismantled. Master Temri believes they’ll reach the foundations within five days."
"Document everything they find," Grim instructed. "Particularly anything unusual beneath the original structure."
The carriage was ready now, with Kali and Vera mounted on horses nearby. Johnny would remain at the estate to assist with security during Grim’s absence. Huangyan took her position on a black mare leading the party.
"Four days should give the guild council time to formalize their agreement," Chen Xing noted. "Shall I forward it to you in the eastern provinces?"
"No, I’ll be back in 8 days. It’ll be fine."
With the final instructions given, the small party departed the Ambrose estate.
The first day’s travel took them through well-maintained imperial highways, past farmlands and small villages that supplied the capital with food and goods. Travelers were common here, and their small party attracted little attention.