The starry sky stretched like a vast veil over the forest of Arkhadia, illuminating the clearing where Caelum, Aldric, and Lyra stood, still shaken by the recent confrontation with the group of energy crystal seekers. The battle against the carnivore was yet to come, but the young prince had shown unexpected courage in saving the injured seeker, Alaric, from the hands of his attackers.
Alaric was now sitting against a tree, his face pale and exhausted, but his eyes were filled with deep gratitude as he looked at Caelum. The young prince, although tired and scarred by the day's trials, stood ready to offer his aid.
"You... you saved me," Alaric murmured in a weak but sincere voice. "I don't know how to thank you."
Caelum, still in shock from the event, nodded. "You don't need to thank me. You just had to protect yourself from those researchers."
Aldric approached and examined Alaric's injuries with meticulous attention. "We need to make sure he's safe and gets the care he needs. But first, we need to figure out what's going on here."
Alaric, despite his pain, seemed to regain some strength at the sound of Aldric's name. His eyes lit up with wonder. "You're Aldric! The famous warrior of Solara!" He raised a trembling hand to Aldric in recognition. "I never thought I'd meet you here. Your reputation precedes you, even in these remote lands."
Aldric nodded with a smirk, but his eyes remained focused on the situation. "And you're the first researcher we've encountered outside of the city. What were you doing with these individuals?" »
Alaric tried to sit up, but a grimace of pain betrayed his efforts. "I was on a mission to collect power crystals. These researchers… they have become increasingly aggressive, seeking to control the crystal market by eliminating all competition. They attacked me because they believed I was an obstacle to their plans."
Lyra, who had been watching the scene with worried attention, leaned towards Alaric. "You mentioned power crystals. Can you tell us more about them?"
Alaric, despite his pain, seemed invigorated by the interest shown. "Power crystals are essential to survival on Arkhadia. They are the only source of energy we have here. They can be used to power machines, strengthen materials, and even create powerful weapons. But their extraction and use require extensive knowledge and specific skills."
Caelum, curious, stepped forward. "Why are they so valuable?" »
Alaric looked at Caelum with a tired but sincere smile. "The crystals are unique to Arkhadia. They possess energetic properties that are indispensable for everything that functions on this planet. Their exploitation is delicate and requires expertise. That is why there is so much rivalry and conflict around them. Researchers like myself try to understand and exploit their potential responsibly, but there are always individuals who seek to abuse these resources."
Aldric thought for a moment, then asked, "You mentioned that you are from Solara. What do you know about black iron and its interaction with energy crystals?"
Alaric, although visibly weakened, found the strength to answer. "Black iron is a very special material. When alloyed with energy crystals, it can create nearly indestructible equipment. Knowledge of this process was limited when we left Solara, but here on Arkhadia, we have discovered that this combination is essential to survive and defend against the dangers of the planet. »
Lyra, taking note of this information, added, "Your expertise could be very valuable to us. We need all the knowledge you can share."
Alaric, despite the pain, nodded with conviction. "I am willing to help you in any way I can. The situation is difficult, but understanding how to use the crystals to our advantage is crucial. I will be happy to share my knowledge with you."
Aldric, realizing the importance of this help, turned to Lyra and Caelum. "We will need to organize our next training to incorporate Alaric's teachings. His knowledge of energy crystals and black iron could give us a decisive advantage."
Lyra nodded. "We will also need to make sure Alaric is properly cared for so he can provide us with all the help we need."
The group set to work, ensuring that Alaric receive the necessary first aid. They set up a temporary camp in the clearing, with supplies and materials to treat the researcher's injuries. As the hours passed, the silence of the forest was punctuated by the soothing sounds of healing and preparation for the days ahead.
The rescue of Alaric and the prospect of his help brought a glimmer of hope into the darkness of the night. Caelum, though tired, felt more and more ready for the challenges that lay ahead. He knew that every new piece of information, every skill he learned would be crucial to their survival and success on Arkhadia.
As the group prepared for the night, discussions of energy crystals and future plans began to take shape. Caelum was determined to make the most of this opportunity and prepare for the next great test that lay ahead.