Chapter 33: Forest’s army dungeon
The dungeon they selected was available, which immediately caught their attention. The Forest’s Army Dungeon had earned its reputation as an unpopular destination for two primary reasons: its notoriously challenging final boss and its remote location deep within the eastern wilderness.
Located nearly a half day’s journey from the city, the dungeon’s isolation deterred most adventuring parties who preferred more accessible locations with better routes.
Despite these drawbacks, Mitch and Leya committed to the expedition without hesitation.
The promised essence rewards were simply too valuable for Mitch to ignore, rare magical components that could significantly boost his gold reserves.
The additional hours of trekking through dense forest terrain seemed a small price to pay for such opportunities.
Their preparations had been meticulous.
Only minor provisions remained to be purchased, primarily dried rations and preserved foods that would sustain them during their estimated seven-day expedition, though both understood that dungeon runs rarely proceeded according to schedule.
The evening before their departure, they shared what might be their final meal in civilization with Kael, Leya’s brother.
The atmosphere carried an undercurrent of tension despite their attempts at normalcy.
Seven days was their planned duration, but everyone present understood the unpredictable nature of dungeon exploration. Conversations danced around unspoken concerns while they tried to maintain optimistic facades.
Dawn broke over a city already alive with commercial activity. Merchants hawked their wares, craftsmen opened their shops, and the familiar sounds of urban life created a comforting backdrop as Mitch and Leya made their final preparations.
They shouldered their travel packs, carefully arranging visible supplies, basic clothing, medical bandages, and perishable food items, to maintain the appearance of ordinary travelers.