The injured merchant was transported back to the temporary camp.
Captain Roland ordered the students to remain within the designated area.
However, the investigation continued.
Adrian spent the afternoon examining the merchant's belongings.
He discovered a small metal emblem inside one of the broken containers.
It was circular, with a wolf carved into its surface.
A strange symbol was engraved beneath it.
Adrian recognized the design.
It resembled the symbol found in one of the old northern records.
He placed the emblem into his pocket.
"Found something?"
Adrian turned.
Kael stood behind him.
Adrian hesitated.
"Just an old emblem."
Kael extended his hand.
"May I see it?"
Adrian gave it to him.
The moment Kael examined the emblem, his expression changed.
"Where did you find this?"
"Near the carriage."
Kael traced the symbol with his thumb.
"My father had something similar."
"Are you certain?"
"Yes."
Kael returned the emblem.
"My family used to investigate ancient ruins. This symbol belonged to one of their expeditions."
"Do you know what it represents?"
Kael shook his head.
"My father never explained."
Adrian considered the information.
The emblem could connect the missing merchant group to Kael's family.
It might also be connected to the ancient creature.
Before he could ask anything else, Leon approached.
"What are you two discussing?"
Kael placed the emblem in his pocket.
"Nothing important."
Leon looked at Adrian.
"Captain Roland is gathering everyone. We're going to discuss tomorrow's investigation."
Adrian nodded.
The three students walked toward the central tent.
Inside, Captain Roland had spread several maps across a table.
"The merchant claims that his group encountered a large wolf. However, the tracks indicate that something else may have attacked them afterward."
He pointed toward the northern mountain range.
"We'll send a small scouting party tomorrow."
Leon raised his hand.
Kael immediately followed.
"So do I."
Several students looked surprised.
Adrian remained silent.
Captain Roland examined them.
"Anyone else?"
Gareth raised his hand.
Adrian considered the situation.
Joining the scouting party would give him access to information.
But it would also put him directly in danger.
He finally raised his hand.
"I'll join."
Captain Roland nodded.
"Very well. Six students and three knights. We leave at dawn."
The meeting ended.
As Adrian walked outside, the system displayed a new message.
[Quest Update]
Investigate the ancient bloodline signature.
[Optional Objective: Discover the origin of the wolf emblem.]
Adrian looked at the notification.
The system was becoming more interested in the northern region.
That alone was enough reason to be cautious.