Cedric, driven by the desire to assist in their quest, asked Raya and Amelia to share the treasure map. As he scrutinized the map, he discerned that the treasure was likely located within the tunnel where he had discovered the liquified mana, but deeper. During his solo exploration, Cedric refrained from delving further into the tunnel due to the potential presence of gold-rank creatures. However, with the newfound strength of the team, he deemed the exploration feasible.
Cedric: "I know where the location is, but we must be prepared for a tough fight. There might be a gold-rank beast residing there."
Raya nodded solemnly, acknowledging the potential dangers ahead.
Raya: "I know. We have some measures prepared for this type of situation."
Cedric nodded in understanding. His reluctance to engage with them before stemmed from a genuine concern for their safety. Now, with a well-prepared team, he felt more confident in facing the challenges that awaited them in the depths of the Thundra forest.
Cedric: "Let's make sure we are well-prepared. We'll need strength, strategy, and cooperation. Together, we can overcome whatever lies ahead."
As the team prepared for their journey into the heart of the forest, Cedric couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie. The prospect of facing a gold-rank beast was daunting, but the shared goal bound them together in a collective pursuit of strength and treasure.
As the team made their preparations, Cedric mounted Blackcomet with Goldenfist accompanying him. The journey toward the tunnel that held the promise of treasure and potential danger began. Amelia, observing Cedric atop his steed while the rest walked, couldn't conceal her irritation.
Amelia: "Can't you just walk like the rest of us?"
Cedric, with a smirk, retorted, "Can't you just tame a horse like me?"
Amelia gritted her teeth but chose to remain silent. The dynamic within the group was a blend of tension and camaraderie, with Cedric's nonchalant attitude often irking Amelia. Nevertheless, they continued their trek through the Thundra forest, led by Cedric and his companions.
Upon reaching the entrance of the tunnel, the team descended into its depths. The air grew colder, and the surroundings became more ominous as they delved further. Cedric was on high alert, relying on his heightened senses to detect any potential threats lurking in the darkness.
Cedric: "Stay close and keep your guard up. We might encounter powerful creatures as we proceed."
The team moved cautiously, the light from Cedric's mana-infused weapon illuminating the path ahead. Goldenfist, with his enhanced senses, served as an additional sentinel, detecting subtle movements or disturbances in the surroundings.
After navigating through the tunnels for some time, they stumbled upon an expansive cavern. The air crackled with an intense energy, and faint echoes reverberated within the cavernous space. The map indicated that the treasure was located deeper within, and the group proceeded with heightened caution.
Amelia: "Cedric, are you sure about this? What if there's a gold-rank beast waiting for us?"
Cedric: "We need to be prepared for any scenario. If there's danger, we face it together."
Raya and the others, though wary, nodded in agreement. The teamwork forged during their time together in the forest was evident as they coordinated their movements and remained vigilant.
As they ventured deeper, the cavern revealed a concealed passageway leading to an even larger chamber. The ambiance grew more foreboding, signaling the possibility of a significant presence lurking within. Cedric's instincts kicked in, prompting him to signal the team to halt.
Cedric: "Something doesn't feel right. Stay on guard."
The cavern's vast expanse held an air of suspense, with the anticipation of a formidable encounter looming over them. The group braced themselves for whatever challenges lay ahead, ready to confront the unknown in their quest for the elusive treasure.
Sensing the ominous vibrations beneath the cavern floor, Cedric swiftly assessed the situation and issued a decisive command.
Cedric: "Everyone, jump and disperse from this location!"
Responding to Cedric's prior instructions, the team acted with synchronized precision, leaping away from the spot just in time. As they evaded, a colossal figure burst from the ground – a Drake Sand Worm, a formidable gold-rank beast known for its menacing presence underground.
Cedric, undeterred by the daunting adversary, charged forward with his sword in hand. Despite delivering a powerful Star Impact, the Drake Sand Worm's robust scales absorbed much of the damage, revealing the immense challenge they faced. Realizing the gravity of the situation, Cedric swiftly communicated a crucial strategy to Raya.
Cedric: "Raya, use your countermeasures against it!"
Raya, prepared for such situations, retrieved a small, enchanted plate from his belongings. Infusing it with mana, he hurled the plate directly at the Drake Sand Worm. As it struck, Raya explained the intended effect.
Raya: "The Drake Sand Worm won't be able to use its gold-rank capacities like intent or access its mana space in its brain."
The strategic move aimed to neutralize the creature's higher-level abilities, leveling the playing field for the team. The cavern echoed with the intensity of the encounter, as the group faced the gold-rank Drake Sand Worm head-on, relying on their combined strength and tactics to prevail in this underground battleground. The air crackled with magical energy as the confrontation unfolded in the depths of the Thundra forest.