Chapter 276: Adrian's Plan and Purpose
Mr. Hawke's sanctuary was no doubt a formidable competitor, with resources and influence that far surpassed what Wild Heart currently possessed. It wasn't just a business rivalry; it was a battle for survival, and Mr. Hawke was determined to absorb Wild Heart into his growing empire. Adrian knew that if they didn't act soon, the sanctuary might lose everything it once stood for.
However, this was the half reason Adrian was doing all this. 'If only so-called Mr. Hawke had good intentions and not colluded with 'her'... Sigh... Let's see what will happen... I have to meet with Mrs.
Rena as the mysterious rich guy soon...'
With these thoughts in his mind, Adrian returned to his work, and after completing it, they returned to the academy. Thankfully, the inspector or Mr. Hawke didn't visit today. Or else he would have to accelerate or postpone his plans.
"... When should I meet her then? I have to choose a time and place carefully too. Hmm... Let's meet her on Thursday afternoon, I don't have any courses that day anyway."
Adrian muttered as he sat down on a chair.
"But I have to think about what to offer and talk about it with her more carefully. I just reconfirmed her personality and interests. So, it will be a bit easier."
"But there is one problem... I have to change my appearance and voice if I want to pretend as another person... She won't likely treat me like an adult since I'm just a 17-year-old young man, no matter how talented or smart I am."
Adrian leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. The plan was forming in his mind, but there were still many details to work out. Disguising himself as the mysterious benefactor was crucial, but it wouldn't be easy. Mrs. Rena was perceptive, and even the slightest mistake could unravel the entire scheme.
He needed to not only change his appearance but also ensure that his voice and mannerisms were convincing.
"I'll need a powerful illusion spell or maybe an enchanted item to alter my appearance, a mask would be nice too," Adrian mused. "Something that's not too obvious but effective enough to make me look older and more refined. As for my voice, I might need a voice-changing potion or a spell... but it has to be subtle."
Adrian considered his options. The city had several reputable shops that dealt in magical items, and there was always the marketplace where one could find rare potions and enchantments. However, these places would be teeming with people who might recognize him. He needed a more discreet approach.
"Maybe I should visit the place that made me rich," Adrian thought, tapping his fingers on the table.
'The Black Market... A good/bad place usually appears in every novel or comic.'
Adrian's thoughts lingered on the Black Market—a shadowy place where anything and everything could be bought or sold for the right price. It wasn't just a market for illegal goods; it was a hub for secrets, a place where anonymity was valued above all else. It was also the place where Adrian had made his fortune, though very few knew the details of how he had done it.
But going there wasn't without risks. The Black Market was filled with opportunists, spies, and those who would use any piece of information to their advantage. If he was recognized, it could complicate things even further. Yet, the potential rewards outweighed the risks.
"I'll have to be careful, very careful," Adrian murmured. "But if I can get my hands on what I need, it'll all be worth it."
He sat up straight and began to plan his visit. The Black Market was a labyrinth of alleyways and hidden entrances, and its vendors were notoriously cautious. It wouldn't be as simple as walking in and making a purchase.
But before that, Adrian needed to finalize his plan for the meeting with Mrs. Rena. He jotted down a few key points in his notebook, organizing his thoughts.
First, he would present himself as someone who shared her husband, Lorian's vision for the sanctuary—a benefactor who understood the importance of the bond between humans and magical beasts. He needed to emphasize that his interest was in preserving the sanctuary's legacy, not exploiting it. To do that, he would have to speak with the same passion and conviction that Lorian once did.
But he should be careful not to overdo it.
Second, he would need to offer something tangible, something that would immediately ease the financial burden on Mrs. Rena, on the sanctuary. A significant donation, perhaps, or a promise of ongoing support. But it had to be more than just money; it had to be something that showed his commitment to the sanctuary's future. Well, he already had an idea for that.
Lastly, he would need to build trust. This was the hardest part. Trust wasn't something that could be bought or faked—it had to be earned. Adrian would have to be patient, careful with his words, and above all, honest about his intentions, even if he was hiding his true identity.
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Satisfied with his initial plan, Adrian turned his attention back to the Black Market. He needed a disguise that was both subtle and effective, something that would make him look older and more authoritative without drawing too much attention.
"I'll need to leave early tomorrow," Adrian decided. "The sooner I get what I need, the better."
With that, Adrian stood up from his chair and began gathering a few items he might need for the trip—his invisibility and black cloaks, money without a doubt, and his new weapon, just in case. He knew the Black Market well enough to navigate its dangers, but it was always better to be prepared.
As he finished his preparations, he glanced at his reflection in the mirror. His usual appearance wouldn't do for the Black Market, so he grabbed a simple black mask he had used in the past—nothing too elaborate, just enough to hide his identity.
'Now, I'm ready to make my first visit to the Black Market.'