Gravity Mage with Level-Up System Chapter 1894: Sudden change of plans

Great Capital City

The drive proceeded smoothly for a while, but gradually, the volume of traffic began to escalate. Before long, a complete standstill occurred.

The airspace teemed with aerial vehicles and transport craft; the ground routes mirrored this congestion, offering little to no maneuverability.

Observing this gridlock, the driver’s mood soured. Lately, the traffic had intensified due to an ongoing competition, resulting in fully booked hotels and packed tourist destinations brimming with visitors.

A few minutes elapsed, yet the traffic showed no signs of easing; instead, the number of vehicles behind us swelled.

Ultimately, over an hour passed. From my seat in the back, I felt a profound sense of wasted time.

I took note of the immense number of vehicles surrounding us. Seeing that the congestion was persistent, I retrieved a map.

Upon consulting the map, I identified a less congested route – one marked on its surface.

A decision formed. This alternative path was known to be the most perilous, and currently, it was notably deserted.

However, the possibility of encountering danger loomed, not to mention the Magic Lords who were actively pursuing me. I might cross paths with them again.

I dismissed these concerns with a shake of my head and instructed the driver to take the less-trafficked route.

The driver’s demeanor shifted dramatically upon hearing this. He adamantly refused, citing the area's notorious danger and the presence of gangsters who might target the cab.

The driver’s refusal was categorical, his face contorted with evident fear, suggesting past traumatic experiences.

“Does anyone ever use that road?” I inquired.

The driver appeared startled by my persistence. He then surmised that I, the masked individual, might be heading towards the border.

Perhaps I intended to pledge allegiance to the esteemed Young Master Raymond.

He then offered, “Delivery services utilize it for their cargo. You could arrange something with them.”

I was at a loss for words. This was the capital, after all.

How could such lawlessness exist? A sense of bewilderment washed over me, having never encountered tales of such a lawless street, particularly within a realm overseen by powerful wizard families.

Noticing my confusion, the driver felt compelled to elaborate, taking a deep breath before offering, “Guest, allow me to provide some insight.”

“These criminal syndicates operate under the patronage of certain influential wizard families. A tacit agreement exists between these families and the governing authorities.”

“Intervention from the government is rare unless a significant incident occurs. The public is generally aware, but few possess the courage to challenge these powerful families,” he explained.

His explanation effectively dispelled my doubts. I expressed my gratitude to the man and settled the fare before disembarking.

The cacophony of vehicle engines and street clamor was intense outside. I crossed to the other side of the street and proceeded along the sidewalk.

My next objective was to locate a reputable delivery company. I approached several passersby, and some directed me towards a place within walking distance.

Navigating through narrow street alleys, I eventually found the establishment: a company named Speed Service – a fitting name, I thought.

Approaching the building, I observed it was a tall, multi-story structure constructed of brick. I proceeded to the entrance.

*Creak!*

The door opened as I stepped inside. My attention was drawn to the individuals present – employees of the company, identifiable by their uniforms.

“Who are you?” a middle-aged man inquired.

At his words, seven or eight workers engaged in moving goods momentarily ceased their tasks.

“I need to reach the border, but the primary route is obstructed by heavy traffic,” I informed them.

The middle-aged man and his staff exchanged surprised glances, unaccustomed to such a direct proposition.

Composing himself, the middle-aged man responded, “We utilize our own designated routes and do not travel the main thoroughfares.”

A smile touched my lips as I replied, “My objective is to reach the border with haste, and I am amenable to using the alternative path.”

The middle-aged man and his employees were momentarily at a loss for words. He then glanced towards the staff behind him.

“Who is scheduled for a border run next?” he asked.

A dark-haired man stepped forward; his name was Matt. He regarded me with surprise, his gaze focusing on the mask I wore.

His attempt to gauge my strength proved futile, leaving him visibly taken aback.

He then looked toward the middle-aged man, noting the same astonishment in his eyes, realizing that neither of them could discern my capabilities.

“I’m heading there next,” the dark-haired man announced.

The middle-aged man nodded and stated, “He is delivering goods. You may accompany him, provided you pay one hundred mid-grade mana stones.”

My heart skipped a beat. The requested sum was unexpectedly high. However, recalling my prior hotel expenses, I realized I couldn’t afford to remain stranded for an extended period.

This was my chance, and I knew I had to seize it.

"Alright," I responded, agreeing to their terms.

With that, I retrieved the mana pouch I had prepared and presented it to the awaiting individuals. The man of middle age took possession of the pouch, his eyes meticulously examining its contents.

A broad grin spread across his features. He then subtly signaled to the man with black hair using only his eyes.

"Follow me," the black-haired man instructed, his voice cutting through the air.

A wave of relief washed over me as I let out a quiet sigh and began to walk, following closely behind him. He led me into a room situated nearby, where all the designated goods were gathered.

These items were the ones slated for delivery. After ensuring everything was accounted for, he turned and glanced at the man wearing a mask.

He gave a slight nod in acknowledgment before we proceeded to the rear of the establishment. Behind the house, a sizable flying vehicle stood waiting.

The black-haired man proceeded to load the collected goods into the vehicle. Once the cargo was secured, he closed the door and moved to the front. Settling into the driver's seat, he prepared for departure.

He then gestured for me to take a seat on his left. I complied, approaching the vehicle and settling down beside him in the passenger seat.