Newbie's Quest: Awaiting Challenge

Chapter 29: Unleash Whatever Cunning Tricks You Have

Ethan Walker appeared like a dried fish hung out to dry, heedless of the expressions of others, only focusing on waving to James Mitchell. Renowned for his disregard of others' reactions, he didn't bother to read the room. His blatant arrival, accompanied by an air of unapologetic confidence, left the others momentarily unable to question his presence at Emerald Tempest Guild.

It was Isabella Martínez who first gathered her thoughts. "Mr. Walker, what brings you here?"

"Me? I was mining with Mitchell when he left without a word. I was displeased, so I followed to see what he was up to." He casually hooked his arm around the edge of the teleportation portal, bending down to retrieve something. With a thud, he tossed out a bag of ore.

Only after securing his precious ores did Ethan Walker prop himself up on the edge, swinging himself out. As the uninvited guest, his demeanor was more relaxed than anyone else there, casually sitting cross-legged on the ground, guarding his bag of ore, and conversing with the others.

"I see you're not engaged in anything serious. Thought you were called back for training," he remarked.

"We were indeed discussing training matters with Mitchell. This is an internal affair of Emerald Tempest Guild, Mr. Walker. If you wish to visit, please make an appointment," stated Isabella Martínez, trying to maintain decorum. However, this approach was futile against Ethan Walker. If it had been effective, Alex Johnson would have long had him under control.

"Why discuss such matters late at night, encroaching on personal time?" Ethan questioned nonchalantly.

"This is a serious matter, Mr. Walker. Please, do not interfere," she insisted.

"Then I'll just sit and listen," Ethan declared, folding his arms and firmly planting himself there, intent on staying.

Isabella Martínez was momentarily at a loss for words. The team captain and vice-captain of the third squad, John Smith and his associate, exchanged glances, unsure how to address the sudden intrusion of Mr. Walker, especially in his rough miner's attire.

Henrik Jensen waved them off, signaling them to leave. They exited hastily, as if fleeing, closing the door behind them.

In the room, now left with only four people, Isabella Martínez started to regain her composure. Ethan Walker was indeed formidable, capable of easily leading the conversation astray.

"Mr. Walker," she began, "Mitchell is still a member of our Emerald Tempest Guild and must adhere to our rules. His excuses for missing training are causing significant disruption, and this is unacceptable."

Ethan hadn't heard much of their previous conversation, but he was quick to understand the situation. He could tell that James Mitchell was being suppressed within Emerald Tempest Guild, and the gaunt man's peculiar way of speaking made it clear who was responsible for this pressure.

"I don't meddle in your guild's affairs," Ethan said, not allowing himself to be dragged into their problems. "I'm here for Mitchell. You can reprimand him first, and then I'll take him out for some fun."

"Why specifically seek out Mitchell?" asked Henrik Jensen, who had been mostly silent until now. Ethan didn't know him, but could sense his higher status compared to the others.

"It's not just about Mitchell. I went mining, and he helped me. You're welcome to join us if you wish," Ethan generously offered.

Isabella struggled to understand Ethan's logic. "You expect me, the captain of Emerald Tempest Guild, to go mining in the Sand Zone?"

"What's wrong with that? Aren't ores mined by people? There's no reason not to go."

Henrik gestured for Isabella to calm down. "Mr. Walker, I'm aware of your intentions. You publicly announced your plan to start a guild, but it seems you lack the funds to support it. You've been quiet lately, probably staying at Avalon Guild. They owe you a big favor, helping with the paperwork needed to start your guild. And you've been mining for over a week because you're short on cash."

Henrik Jensen, Emerald Tempest Guild's ace, was quick and intelligent. He had almost accurately guessed Ethan's recent activities.

"Your initiative to contact Mitchell is because you need people, and you're looking to hire him cheaply," Henrik continued.

Mitchell was about to explain that he had met Ethan by chance and had approached him, but Ethan gestured for him not to.

"I do need Mitchell. He has a good character and doesn't hog the limelight, unlike some who like to step on others to climb higher," Ethan said, glancing pointedly at Isabella. Isabella didn't dare argue, fearing Henrik would see through her.

Ethan raised his chin. "You've listed Mitchell as available. I've saved up enough money."

"I refuse," Henrik said firmly.

Ethan frowned. "Mr. Xu, we live in a modern society. We should respect the spirit of contracts."

"The captain has the final say in player loans. I refuse," Henrik reiterated.

"You're going back on your word," Ethan pointed out.

"We merely discussed it verbally; no legal agreement was formed."

Ethan, realizing the complexity of the situation, found the guild's behavior deceitful. They wanted to discard Mitchell, yet refused to let him go when someone else showed interest. "I guess there's nothing I can do then. Mitchell, you'll have to wait."

Ethan didn't linger on the matter, knowing he was inexperienced with these complex player loan agreements. He needed professional advice.

"I should mention," Henrik called out as Ethan was about to leave, "even if you consult Alex Johnson, it won't help."

Ethan ignored him, walking out proudly, but once back at Avalon Guild, he frantically searched for Alex Johnson.

Susan Harper informed him that Alex was away on business but could be reached by phone. Now, Ethan was in his room, speaking with Alex on the phone, with Emily Johnson also present.

"It's tricky," Alex began, moving to a quieter spot. "Player loans involve the player's will, the coach, the captain, and the guild's senior management. Since Mitchell is listed, it means the higher-ups have agreed. Emerald Tempest Guild is unique; their team captain holds significant power. Now that Henrik refuses to release him, other guilds can't intervene."

Emily Johnson made a snide remark, noting Henrik's stubborn nature.

Ethan glanced at her, signaling her to keep quiet.

"There's a way," Alex continued cheerfully. "If you're willing to join Avalon Guild and give up on starting your own, I can personally intervene in this small matter."

"I refuse," Ethan replied listlessly. "To toil for Avalon Guild without any gain? That's a loss."

Alex laughed, and Emily joined in, teasing Ethan about being too demanding.

Ethan was straightforward in his response when Alex asked why he was so fixated on Mitchell. "Because he's affordable."

Alex, amused by Ethan's typical response, criticized Emerald Tempest Guild's attitude. "It's a straightforward transaction. Why can't others rent a player they've listed?"

Ethan agreed vehemently.

"This is something Avalon Guild can't meddle in," Alex said, sounding serious. "But personally, as your friend, I can't just stand by and watch you struggle." Ethan was getting anxious.

"Stop beating around the bush, Alex," Ethan pleaded. "Do you have any cunning tricks?"

"Not really cunning, just a small favor between friends," Alex replied, typing something on his keyboard.

"I've sent it to your wristband mail. Make sure to check it."

The call ended abruptly, likely due to an interruption on Alex's end. Ethan checked his wristband and found a new message. Projecting the contents on the wall, he saw a simple map with several instances marked, seemingly unrelated but all bearing Emerald Tempest Guild's teal emblem.

"What's this?" Ethan was confused.

Emily peered at the map, suddenly excited. Pointing at one of the marks, she exclaimed, "This is Emerald Tempest Guild's map! Alex really favors you."

Ethan was still puzzled as Emily, thrilled by the prospect of mischief, urged him to take advantage.

"Go for it, Ethan! Raid them!" she exclaimed.