After returning to the laboratory, we immediately discussed the findings in detail. Although we have temporarily solved the problem of energy fluctuations by strengthening the seal, we know that the real source of this disaster may be far more complicated than we expected.
"We now have two main clues." Alison said, "One is the crystal that strengthens the seal, which is related to ancient magic. The other is the runes in the underground library, which seem to be related to some ancient power."
"Yes." Victor nodded, "These runes indicate that we may not only be facing natural forces, but an ancient power that was sealed underground hundreds of years ago."
"I think we need to know more about the background of this ancient power." I said, "Finding its origin may help us better deal with the current crisis."
"I agree." Alison agreed, "We can use the resources in the laboratory to further study these runes and crystals. In addition, I know a place that may provide more information we need."
"Where?" I asked.
"There used to be a famous historian in this city who specialized in ancient civilizations and magic," said Alison. "His private library may contain information about these ancient powers. Although his library was damaged in the earthquake, we can still try to investigate."
"Okay, let's investigate that library," I decided, "but we have to be careful, there may be various dangers in the ruins after the earthquake."
After some preparation, our group set out again. This time, our goal is an old manor outside the city, which was once the residence of the historian. Although the manor has partially collapsed, we still hope to find valuable information.
When we arrived at the manor, we found that the building was severely damaged and the surroundings were in a mess. We carefully entered the ruins and looked for possible clues.
"We need to act separately," Alison suggested, "Victor and I will be responsible for finding the library. Ethel and Jack will be responsible for checking other areas of the manor."
We began to act separately, and Jack and I searched in the main building area of the manor. The situation inside the manor is much more complicated than it looks from the outside. The walls are covered with ancient paintings and decorations, and some furniture has been destroyed beyond recognition.
"This place is huge, we need to find our target as quickly as possible," Jack said, his eyes scanning the surroundings alertly.
We found a secret door in a hidden corner of the main building. The door was engraved with complex runes, similar to the runes we saw in the underground library. The door lock was broken, and we pushed the door open easily.
After entering the door, we found that it was a hidden basement with various ancient books and scrolls on the walls. There was a large table in the center with several tattered manuscripts and an ancient instrument on it.
"This may be the information we need." I said, walking towards the books and manuscripts on the table.
Jack checked around to make sure there was no danger, and then came over to help. "These books look very old and may contain a lot of useful information."
I picked up one of the manuscripts and flipped through a few pages to find detailed records of ancient magic and seals. The manuscript mentioned a mysterious power called "Sleeping Ancient Clan", which is believed to be part of ancient civilization.
"The Sleeping Ancients?" I muttered to myself, "What does this mean?"
"The Sleeping Ancients are a kind of existence in ancient mythology." Jack explained, "Legend has it that these ancients possess powerful magical powers, but because they are too threatening, they were sealed underground by ancient magicians."
"This is closely related to the situation we are facing now." I said, "The power of these ancients may be the real cause of the earthquake."
"Yes." I continued to flip through the manuscript, "This record also mentions the sealing rituals and cracking methods of the ancients. It seems that we need to find some specific magic symbols and reseal this power according to the ancient rituals."
"What kind of symbols do we need?" Jack asked.
"The manuscript mentions a symbol called 'Eternal Seal', which is the key to sealing the power of the ancients." I replied, "We need to find the relevant symbols and ritual steps in the library."
Just then, Alison and Victor also completed their investigation and returned to the basement with some ancient scrolls and books. Their faces were full of excitement and fatigue.
"We found some information about the 'Eternal Seal'," said Alison. "These symbols may help us complete the sealing ceremony."
Victor came over and carefully examined the manuscript and materials. "This information is consistent with our previous findings. We need to combine these symbols with ancient rituals to find the right way to seal the power of the ancients."
"Then let's get started," I said. "First, we need to draw all the symbols in the designated places, and then follow the steps of the ritual."
We began to prepare for the sealing ceremony in the basement of the manor. Alison and Victor were responsible for drawing the symbols, and Jack and I were responsible for collecting and organizing the required materials. The whole process was tedious and complicated, but we had to make sure that every step was accurate.
As the ceremony progressed, the ancient symbols gradually revealed their mysterious power. The atmosphere in the entire basement became extremely tense, and the air was filled with the breath of ancient magic. We carefully completed all the steps and finally completed the preparations for the seal.
"The ritual has been completed." Victor said, "This will help stabilize the power of the ancients and prevent them from threatening us again."
"But we still need to monitor for a while to make sure there are no problems with the seal." Alison added, "In addition, we need to continue investigating and find other possible threats."
We left the manor and returned to the laboratory. Although this mission has made some progress, we know that the real challenge is far from over. The secrets behind the disaster remain unsolved. We must continue to work hard to uncover all the mysteries and prepare for the upcoming greater test.