As the trio makes their way to the soil mine, they are greeted by a breathtaking sight. The mine stands tall against the horizon, its entrance guarded by towering rock formations. The air around it crackles with energy, and the ground seems to thrum with power.
「 Mr. Cole 」
"This is it..."
"The soil mine I was talking about."
「 Aideen 」
"Finally!"
"This Gear sure is heavy."
However, their excitement is dampened as they notice a sign near the entrance that reads, "No Humans Beyond this Point." Undeterred by the warning, Mr. Cole, Aideen, and Ember cautiously proceed, knowing that their pursuit requires them to venture forth.
「 Mr. Cole 」
"Let's go..."
"And Mrs. Carmen, please stay close to me."
As they step inside, the atmosphere changes. The air becomes thick and heavy, carrying the scent of rich soil and minerals. The walls of the mine are lined with veins of minerals, shimmering in various hues under the dim light.
They follow a narrow path, their steps echoing through the cavernous space. The deeper they go, the more the mine seems to come alive. Ethereal wisps of energy float around them, dancing in the air like delicate spirits. The faint hum of power resonates through the tunnels, creating an esoteric ambiance.
After what feels like an eternity of descent, they reach a massive shaft that leads to the lower levels of the soil mine. Mr. Cole approaches the edge, peering into the darkness below.
「 Mr. Cole 」
"This is it, Mrs. Carmen."
"Beyond this point, we'll truly know whether the Gear is up to the task."
They step onto the platform of the shaft. The elevator descends slowly, inching deeper into the heart of the mine. As they go down, the tendrils of energy that permeate the mine grow more abundant, swirling and pulsating around them.
Aideen's eyes widen as she notices the tendrils inching closer, reaching for her. However, to her relief, her ancient Gear protects her from the electrocuting energy of the æsther around them. The tendrils slide harmlessly across its surface, unable to penetrate the highly effective armor.
The elevator comes to a halt, and the doors open, revealing a scene that takes their breath away. The lower level of the soil mine is a sprawling expanse, lit by the ethereal glow of the energy tendrils. The walls are adorned with vibrant crystals, casting a kaleidoscope of colors across the chamber.
Aideen can't help but marvel at the beauty and mystique of the place. The energy in the air feels alive, pulsating with untapped potential. She can sense the power of æsther resonating within the ancient Gear as if it is in harmony with the very ore itself.
Ember pads beside Aideen, its fiery presence contrasting with the metaphysical energy surrounding them. Mr. Cole, his eyes filled with resolve, takes the lead, guiding them through the tunnels of the lower level.
As they venture deeper, the energy tendrils become more problematic and animated, almost like living vines weaving through the walls. They seem to respond to the presence of the ancient Gear, acknowledging its significance.
「 Aideen 」
"Look at all the high-quality soil around here."
"We are literally covered by money."
「 Mr. Cole 」
"Seems like you have what it takes to don the Gear, Mrs. Carmen."
"It won't be long now..."
"The exit is just up ahead."
「 Aideen 」
"This Gear..."
"It does not need to draw energy from æsther?"
「 Mr. Cole 」
"I am sorry for not telling you earlier, Mrs. Carmen."
「 Aideen 」
"What... What is it, Mr. Cole?"
「 Mr. Cole 」
"The Gear is made out of æsther..."
Aideen's mind races with questions. The revelation that the Gear is crafted from æsther, the very essence that covers the planet, leaves her astounded. Wearing a suit intimately connected to the source of all energy in Æstherfall is beyond her imagination.
「 Mr. Cole 」
"Yes, Mrs. Carmen."
"The Gear you wear is a unique creation, forged by ancient artisans who possess great mastery over æsther manipulation."
"The suit powers itself, eliminating the need to draw energy from the planet."
Aideen's eyes widen as she tries to comprehend the implications. The Gear she wears is not just a tool; it is a conduit of pure æstheric power. It explains why the energy tendrils within the soil mine respond to her presence and why she feels such a profound connection to the ancient artifact.
「 Aideen 」
"So, basically what you are saying is..."
"I can tap into the very fabric of energy of the planet and wield its power."
Ember, sensing the newfound energy coursing through Aideen, lets out a low growl of agreement. The fiery creature seems to understand the significance of the revelation.
「 Mr. Cole 」
"Looks like Ember agrees with you..."
"Indeed, Mrs. Carmen."
"The potential of a true Gear is vast."
"And with your spirit and determination, I have no doubt that you will unlock its true power."
"But we must proceed with caution."
"The soil mine is a place of immense energy, and we must be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead."
「 Aideen 」
"Understood, Mr. Cole."
"I will wield this Gear with respect and responsibility."
"Let us continue and leave this god-forbidden reserve."
With their resolve strengthened by the knowledge of the Gear's true nature, Mr. Cole, Aideen, and Ember press on. The energy tendrils within the soil mine pulse with renewed vigor, as if acknowledging Aideen's understanding and acceptance of their essence.
Together, they venture deeper into the mine, their path illuminated by the ethereal glow of the crystal-lined walls. The bond between Aideen and the Gear grows stronger as if the ancient artifact is awakening to its full potential in her presence.
As they near the exit, Aideen can't help but feel a sense of exhilaration. The journey through the soil mine has unveiled a whole new realm of possibilities, fueled by the boundless energy of æsther. A faint glimmer of sunlight peeks through the cracks, indicating their imminent return to the surface. The air gradually shifts from the heavy, charged atmosphere of the mine to a refreshing breeze carrying the scent of ocean salt.
Stepping out into the open, Aideen's eyes widen in awe at the sight before her. They have emerged into an ancient city, long forgotten by time. Tall structures of weathered stone and intricate architecture dot the landscape, their grandeur standing as a testament to a civilization that once thrived here.
The city is enclosed by towering brown walls, moss-covered and weathered by the ages. Ballistas mounted atop the walls serve as a reminder of the city's past defenses, now silent and dormant. Nature has begun to reclaim this forgotten place, with vines and foliage weaving through the cracks here and there.
Mr. Cole, his eyes scanning their surroundings, points toward a distant pier, jutting out into the vast ocean.
「 Mr. Cole 」
"There, Mrs. Carmen."
"The pier is our destination."
"We need to cross the ocean to return to New Pavo."
"But we must be cautious as we make our way through this ancient city."
Aideen nods in agreement, her gaze fixed on the pier. The journey ahead seems daunting, yet the newfound power resonating within her from the Gear fills her with confidence and determination.
The trio traverses the crumbling streets, passing by dilapidated marketplaces and abandoned dwellings. The silence hangs heavy in the air, broken only by the occasional creak of decaying structures and the distant sound of waves crashing against the shore.
As they approach the pier, Aideen can't help but feel a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. The vast expanse of the ocean stretches before them, its azure waters shimmering under the golden light of the sun.
Mr. Cole leads them to a weathered wooden boat tied to the pier, its sails tattered but serviceable. With Ember's fiery presence casting a warm glow over the vessel, they embark on the final leg of their journey, leaving the forgotten city behind.
「 Aideen 」
"What is this place, Mr. Cole?"
「 Mr. Cole 」
"A place with significant memories, Mrs. Carmen."
"A place where true friends held each other's hand until the very last."
「 Aideen 」
"You've been here before, haven't you, Mr. Cole?"
「 Mr. Cole 」
"If you don't mind, I am reluctant to talk about it."
"It brings back a lot of unpleasant memories."
「 Aideen 」
"I understand, Mr. Cole."
「 Mr. Cole 」
"Thank you..."
As the boat sets sail, Aideen looks back one last time, taking in the mysterious city that has revealed itself to her. She can't help but wonder about the stories and secrets buried within its ancient walls.
With the wind at their backs and the vast ocean ahead, Aideen, Mr. Cole, and Ember continue their journey back to New Pavo, propelled by their unyielding determination and the power of the ancient Gear.
「 Aideen 」
"This ancient city is truly a wonder to behold."
"I wonder if it has a name..."
Despite his reluctance, Mr. Cole ultimately decides to entertain Aideen's question. He takes a deep breath, steeling himself for the flood of memories that will come rushing back as he speaks. This particular question is one he has answered countless times before, but each time feels like a fresh wound being reopened.
Still, Mr. Cole knows it's important to honor the memory of what happened and to pay tribute to the people and events that shaped his life. So he begins to speak, his voice steady and measured as he recounts the painful details of that fateful day.
He knows he'll never forget what happened, no matter how many times he revisits it. But perhaps, in sharing his story with Aideen, he can find some measure of closure.
「 Mr. Cole 」
"Cardinal Peaks."