Erik continued to lead the party deeper into the Lumisgrove, directing them with great care along the verdant paths that wound their way through the towering vegetation.
Their objective was to reach a specific region of the forest that was referred to as the Lumisfalls.
The stunning aesthetics of cascading water and lush greenery were not the only factors that gave the Lumisfalls their name; what lay beneath the falls inspired the name.
Erik began explaining where they were going by saying, "The Lumisfalls are unique," Erik began, his voice steady and authoritative as he explained their destination.
"Yes, there are waterfalls. But the mana in the water has had an unusual effect on the rocks below. It's turned them into something extraordinary, which will be very common for you if we successfully retrieve the Auburn Pine."
He remained silent to give his companions time to process the information.
"The rocks have been transformed into Aclaitrium," he finally revealed, his gaze fixed on the path ahead.
After hearing his words, the group immediately fell into a hushed silence.
Aclaitrium was an extremely uncommon mineral that commanded a high price.
It was recognized for its capacity to store vast quantities of mana, which led to its classification as an essential resource intensely sought after for its many potential uses.
"It's not just the Auburn Pine they're after," Erik explained, referring to the Frantian soldiers they'd been evading. "The Aclaitrium is a precious resource too. It's another reason why Frant has such a vested interest in this place."
Ava furrowed her brow in curiosity, glancing toward Erik as she posed her question. "Why is this Aclaitrium so important? What makes it so coveted by the Frantians?" she asked, her voice echoing softly within the quiet expanse of the forest.
Erik turned to face her, his expression thoughtful. "Aclaitrium is known for its remarkable mana conductivity," he began, his voice level as he laid bare the information. "It's one of the few minerals that can greatly enhance the effectiveness of brain crystal powers thanks to its high mana conductivity."
He paused, looking at each of his companions, their faces alight with intrigue and surprise. "Those who can imbue their weapons with elemental powers, or even poison, find Aclaitrium invaluable," he continued. "It's affordable, yet has a level of mana conductivity that can at least double the efficiency of these powers."
Garrett, Marcus, Ava, and Alexia went silent as their eyes moved back and forth between Erik and the scenery surrounding them.
The idea that such a resource could be concealed beneath the Lumisfalls was undeniably alluring, leading their thoughts down a tempting path.
"Should we...take some for ourselves, then?" Garrett suggested, his gaze turning towards Erik for approval.
But Erik shook his head, a stern look crossing his face. "Our mission is to retrieve the Auburn Pine. Any detour could put us at risk," he said firmly.
"Besides," he added, his expression softening slightly, "the ancient underground city Samuel has probably cleared is filled with Aclaitrium, ready to be harvested."
The group was silent as everyone processed what Erik had just said.
The allure of Aclaitrium was strong, but they decided that the risks involved in obtaining it were not worth putting their mission in danger.
They knew Erik was right, even though the prospect of owning a piece of the highly prized mineral was very appealing.
It would have been wiser for them to proceed with caution and keep their attention on their objective rather than allow themselves to be swayed by the allure of quick gain.
They nodded in agreement as the reality of their situation began to sink in.
They stifled their curiosity and refocused their attention on the activities that needed to be completed.
***
After a long journey through the Thaid-infested forest, the group finally reached a point where they could not continue.
They were forced to take cover after a sudden noise rang throughout the Lumisgrove.
A jarring cacophony reverberating eerily between the towering trees shattered the tranquil hum of the forest, which was broken by the unmistakable sound of engines.
Erik abruptly turned his attention toward the noise, and his eyes narrowed in anticipation. There was no way to misunderstand it. Frantian vehicles were the source of the roaring engines.
The vehicles transported soldiers from the Frantian army deeper into the enchanted forest.
Erik's heart raced in his chest, beating at a faster rhythm that mirrored the rising adrenaline levels in his system.
The rest of the group turned to him, their expressions mirroring his own.
Tension gripped them, each acutely aware of the danger the approaching vehicles signified.
It was not the mere presence of the Frantians that worried them but rather the implications of their proximity.
Ava's eyes flashed over to Alexia, and her concerned gaze widened as she looked at her.
She spoke louder than a whisper, asking, "What do we do?"
Just as the harsh grumble of engines perforated the tranquil silence of the Lumisgrove, Alexia's ears perked up, her hazel eyes narrowing with a discerning glint.
She stood still momentarily, processing the sound, until recognition dawned in her eyes. Instantly, a sense of urgency washed over her.
"Hide, now!" she commanded her voice a mere whisper, but the intensity behind it palpable.
Her words' underlying note of urgency didn't go unnoticed, and the group sprang into action without a second thought.
The towering trees of the Lumisgrove suddenly became their shield, the luminous foliage a curtain that veiled them from prying eyes.
With their hearts pounding in their chests and their breaths held captive, they ducked behind the nearest colossal tree. The bark, rough and calm under their touch, was a comforting reminder of their cover.
Garrett quickly dropped to his knees; his back pressed against the tree, his face ghostly pale but determined.
Ava and Marcus were next to him, their eyes wide and alert. Even though Marcus was still visibly weakened from his recent injury, the stubborn glint in his eyes told them he was far from backing down.
On the other hand, Erik was crouched near the edge of their makeshift cover; his gaze fixed on the ominous noise's direction.
Given the circumstances, he maintained a level of composure that was almost unsettling.
His hand made a cryptic motion, suggesting the others sit down and be quiet.
They were in obvious danger as they huddled together for protection behind the towering tree. The air was thick with tension.
The noise became increasingly audible and closer, the rumble of engines resonating menacingly throughout the woods.
But hidden behind the gargantuan tree, Erik, Ava, Marcus, Garrett, and Alexia held their breaths, waiting anxiously as the danger passed by, unaware of their presence.
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