After returning to the laboratory, our work did not end there. Although the restart of the seal temporarily stabilized the energy fluctuations, we knew that this was only a temporary solution. The real challenge has just begun.
In the laboratory, Alison and Victor were busy sorting out data and analyzing the records of runes, while I was reviewing my previous experiences and trying to sort out my thoughts and memories. Jack was checking the laboratory's security system to ensure that there were no further threats.
"Ethel, we need your help." Alison suddenly turned to me, with a tired but determined light in her eyes, "We found a hidden signal, which may be related to the magic stone we found."
"Hidden signal?" I asked with a frown.
"Yes." Alison nodded. "Our equipment detected a weak energy signal, which seems to be related to the power of the magic stone. We need to find the source of this signal in order to uncover more secrets."
"I can help." I replied. "I have some understanding of these ancient powers and may be able to provide some help."
"Okay, let's go check it out together." Alison said, "Victor, you continue to analyze the runes. We need to find out the real cause of this incident as soon as possible."
We quickly sorted out our equipment and prepared to go to the source of the hidden signal. Alison brought an advanced detection device, and Victor brought several ancient magic books and research materials. Jack was responsible for security to ensure that we would not encounter any accidents during the operation.
The source of the signal was at the other end of the city. This place used to be an ancient library, but now it was destroyed by the earthquake and only ruins remained. We carefully walked through the ruins, and the signal emitted by the detection equipment became stronger and stronger until it reached its peak in the central area of the library.
"This is where the signal is strongest." Alison said, "But the ruins in this area are very complicated, we need to check carefully."
We began to search in the ruins, and Alison and Victor carefully checked every possible clue. I was responsible for finding hidden traps and obstacles to ensure our safety.
Suddenly, I noticed an unusual slate with some ancient runes engraved on it. Its surface was covered with dust, but a closer look revealed a faint glow at the edge of the runes. I tried to touch the runes with my fingers and felt a faint energy fluctuation.
"Alison, Victor, there are some strange things here." I shouted, "The runes on this slate seem to be somewhat similar to the runes we saw before."
Alison came over and carefully observed the runes on the slate. "These runes are indeed very old and look like a seal mark. They may be related to hidden energy sources."
Victor flipped through his ancient magic book and found a similar rune pattern. "These runes are an important mark in ancient magic. They may be used to protect some powerful power."
"We should try to activate this rune to see if we can find the hidden secrets." Victor said, "However, activating the rune may trigger unknown dangers, and we need to be prepared."
I nodded and prepared to follow Victor's instructions. Alison continued to monitor the energy fluctuations around to ensure that nothing unexpected happened. We carefully pressed a few runes on the stone slab, and suddenly, the entire ruins of the library began to shake violently.
"Everyone be careful!" Jack shouted loudly, "It looks like something is coming out!"
The shaking became more and more intense, and the corners of the ruins began to collapse. Just then, the ground under the stone slab suddenly opened up, revealing a hidden basement. The entrance to the basement emitted a faint light, as if guiding us there.
"Let's go in and take a look." I said, "Maybe this is the clue we need."
We carefully entered the basement and found it full of ancient books and mysterious artifacts. In the center of the basement was a huge stone box, engraved with complex runes, emitting a faint light. Above the stone box was suspended a dazzling crystal, and a mysterious power could be vaguely seen in the crystal.
"This is... a mysterious crystal!" Victor said in surprise, "It may be an important source of power in ancient magic."
"We need to understand its function," Alison said, "and see if we can unlock its secrets."
Victor began to study the runes on the crystal, trying to decipher the mystery. Alison used her equipment to scan the energy fluctuations of the crystal. I was responsible for patrolling the basement to prevent any potential threats.
As Victor delved deeper into the research, his face gradually showed an excited expression. "This crystal contains powerful magical power, which can enhance the effect of the seal and may be related to the source of this earthquake."
"What should we do then?" I asked.
"We need to combine the power of the crystal with the magic stone to re-strengthen the seal." Victor replied, "This will help stabilize the energy fluctuations and prevent further disasters."
We decided to follow Victor's advice and combine the power of the crystal with the magic stone. This process is complicated and dangerous, and we must be careful in every step. As the ritual was completed, the light of the crystal and the energy of the magic stone merged with each other, and the atmosphere in the entire basement became unusually peaceful.
"The seal has been strengthened." Victor said, "The power of this crystal will help stabilize the energy fluctuations. We have temporarily solved part of the problem of this incident."
"But this is still just the beginning." Alison added, "We need to continue investigating and find out all the hidden secrets."
We left the basement and returned to the laboratory. Although this mission has made some progress, we know that the real challenge is still waiting for us ahead. The secrets behind the disaster are far from being fully revealed. We must continue our efforts to uncover the true cause of this incident and prepare for greater threats to come.