【Interstellar Contract Magician】Ruyuanke

Chapter 408 [Empire] I'm ready!

I forced a smile, raised my glass, and gently clinked it against Nightingale's, making a crisp sound. "Are you teaching me to be a high-level mercenary and a mentor at the same time?" I said teasingly, the wine brewed from the young branches and leaves of the battle plant sliding coolly down my throat, bringing a hint of sweetness.

Nightingale raised an eyebrow and drank the wine in the glass in one gulp, leaving a deep look in her eyes. "Of course, my little ghost... has grown up." His voice was low, but full of power, as if every word contained deep meaning.

As we drank, I caught a glimpse of melancholy in the corners of his eyes, and my heart tightened. "You don't seem to like me 'growing up'?" I continued to tease, trying to ease the awkwardness of the moment.

He was silent for a moment, a complex expression flickering in his eyes. "It's not that I don't like it, it's just... growing up means more responsibilities and sacrifices." His tone remained calm, yet with a hint of heaviness that was hard to conceal.

I put down my glass and looked at him seriously. "I understand that being a high-level mercenary not only improves your combat effectiveness, but also means taking on more responsibilities. But why do you feel this way?"

Nightingale took a deep breath and gazed into the distance, as if reminiscing. "In this industry, growth means constant challenges and losses. You'll encounter all kinds of people and situations, some of which you can't predict. Every choice you make may determine your future."

I nodded, understanding his meaning. "So, you want me to be more than just a powerful mercenary, but also a person with a sense of responsibility and good judgment?"

He smiled faintly, revealing a rare warmth. "That's right. A high-level mercenary must not only be fearless on the battlefield, but also remain calm and rational in complex environments. You need to learn to make the right decisions under pressure. This affects not only yourself, but also the people you protect."

I took a deep breath, feeling the coolness brought by the battle plant wine. "Thank you for your guidance, Nightingale. I will try my best."

Nightingale nodded, her eyes firm. "I believe in you. Remember, no matter what difficulties you encounter, never give up easily. The truly strong are those who hold on to their beliefs in the face of adversity."

Our conversation was particularly heartwarming on these cold mercenary streets. Nightingale was not only my mentor, but also my guide on this challenging road.

I think I still rely on him to some extent, but not mentally.

"Well, why don't we move on?" Nightingale put away his pensive expression and waved his hand. "There is still much more you need to learn."

I raised my glass again, clinked it with his, and silently made up my mind.

"However, does it become normal to bring in newcomers after reaching the threshold of high-level mercenaries? Is it to build your own team?" I looked at him curiously, biting a side herb.

He thought for a moment: "Indeed, this is one of the common choices for high-level mercenaries. But it is not the only one." He took a sip of wine and continued: "Bringing newcomers is one of the good sources of team members, but not everyone is suitable for team combat. In this line of work, many people only believe in themselves and cannot rely on the team, or even a partner." His words seemed meaningful.

Nightingale's words echoed in the air, carrying a deep thought and an unfinished aftertaste. I bit the vanilla silently, immersed in his explanation, trying to find more clues.

"So, you prefer to act alone?" I continued to ask, with a glint of curiosity and exploration in my eyes, which was the clearness and stupidity I thought it was.

Nightingale shook his head slightly, a hint of warm reminiscence in his eyes. "I'm not inclined to act alone, but I'm more focused on choosing the right partners. While the strength of an individual is important, it's teamwork that allows us to accomplish more complex and challenging tasks." He paused, his gaze sweeping across the surrounding streets, as if reminiscing about the past. "Bringing in newcomers isn't just about building your own team; it's also about passing on experience and skills. Every newcomer has their own potential and unique qualities; the key lies in discovering and nurturing them."

I nodded, understanding his meaning. "What about Lin Hao? Do you think he's suitable for teamwork?"

Nightingale's gaze softened instantly, as if she were contemplating something. "Lin Hao has his strengths. He's quick-witted, adaptable, and eager to learn. But teamwork requires more than just individual ability; it also requires tacit understanding and trust. He needs more practical experience to truly integrate into the team and unleash his full potential."

I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of responsibility on my shoulders. "I'll do my best to help him and get him used to it as quickly as possible."

Nightingale smiled with satisfaction. "This is what I want to see. High-level mercenaries must not only be strong, but also know how to collaborate and lead. Your growth is not only for yourself, but also for those who follow you."

Our conversation seemed particularly warm on this cold winter street. Although the surroundings were full of danger and uncertainty, the nightingale's few words gave me the strength and direction to move forward.

"Since we've been talking for so long, why don't you complete a small mission first?" Nightingale suggested, a glint of excitement in her eyes. "That way, you'll be able to adapt to the pace of being a high-level mercenary more quickly."

I hesitated, then nodded, "Okay, I'm ready."

Nightingale led me through a hidden alley to an unassuming cafe. He pushed open the door and motioned for me to follow. "This is our mission frontline, responsible for receiving and assigning missions. Come in, and I'll explain the basic process."

The café's interior was simple yet modern. Mission notices and photos of success stories hung on the walls. Tables and chairs were neatly arranged, and several mercenaries were busy with their duties. Nightingale led me to a window seat and gestured for me to sit down.

"This is our mission hall," he said, pointing to the large screen on the wall. "All mission information will be posted here. You can choose the appropriate mission based on your abilities and interests. After completing a mission, you will receive corresponding rewards and evaluations, which will affect your mercenary level and reputation."

I looked around and felt the professionalism and rigor here. "That sounds very systematic."

Nightingale nodded. "Indeed. Every high-level mercenary needs to have strict self-discipline and a strong sense of responsibility. The missions here are diverse, ranging from intelligence gathering to high-risk escorts, and each mission requires different skills and strategies."

I looked up at the large screen and saw various missions scrolling across it. One mission in particular caught my eye—"Search and Rescue of Missing Researchers." The mission description was concise and clear, involving a high degree of danger but a generous reward.

"How's this mission?" I asked, pointing to the mission information on the screen. "It looks quite challenging."

Nightingale smiled slightly, a hint of approval flashing in her eyes. "This is a good choice. The missing researcher may hold some important information or technology. Although the mission is dangerous, completing it will greatly increase your experience and reputation."

I hesitated for a moment, then decided to accept the challenge. "Then I'll choose this task."

Nightingale nodded. "Okay, after you accept this mission, I will give you some guidance. Remember, the path of a high-level mercenary is not easy, but as long as you persevere, you will surely become a truly powerful warrior."

I took a deep breath, feeling the surge of excitement and anticipation in my chest. At this moment, I knew that my journey as a mercenary had begun anew, and Nightingale, as my mentor, would lead me to a broader world.

"Thank you, Nightingale." I said firmly, my eyes full of confidence.

Nightingale smiled with relief. "I trust you. Now, go and prepare. The specific details of the mission will be released in a few minutes."

I stood up, feeling the weight of responsibility on my shoulders, but my heart remained unwavering. As I left the cafe, the cold air once again hit me. I believed that no matter how difficult the road ahead, I could overcome it.

With the release of the mission information, my first step on the path to becoming a high-level mercenary has officially begun. Every day ahead will be a new challenge and a new opportunity for growth. And I'm ready to take on everything.

I'm ready. I'm ready. I'm ready!