Chapter 324 - Mine
"It is breathtaking, isn't it? This is how we mine the Mana stones," the guide exclaimed, her voice echoing in the vast underground cavern illuminated by countless different lights.
Her clothes were formal, an attire belonging to someone with a higher ranking, as she was well-versed in her explanations and knowledge.
'Someone either from the HR team or from the management. Hmm….Her clothes are fresh, and she lacks the habits those who would venture to this place frequently have. So, she is either a new recruit or someone from the office part.'
The necessary information was missing to deduce the remaining part, but that wasn't important.
'Considering the amount of students that would come here, they can't employ a high-ranking member.'
This was, in fact, normal since around two hundred students were in this factory. Of course, with the number of students the academy had, different classes were scheduled to visit the factories on different days. And the Blackthorn's even let them use two factories.
'Must be an attempt to regain the public trust.'
Both Blackthorn's and the Arcadia Hunter Academy had their ups and downs; therefore, it was necessary for them to make up for those.
"Now, please follow me."
With her words, the group of students followed closely behind her, their eyes wide with wonder and anticipation.
"The entire process starts from the moment we identify a promising vein of Mana stones," the guide continued, gesturing towards a wall shimmering with faint magical energy. "To scout these precious stones, we employ a combination of traditional mining techniques and advanced magical artifacts crafted by our specially groomed mage-engineers."
She led us towards a cluster of miners who were diligently working with pickaxes and shovels. But alongside them stood mage-engineers, their intricate devices humming with magical energy as they scanned the walls for signs of Mana stones.
"These artifacts amplify our ability to detect Mana stones and pinpoint their exact locations within the rock," the guide explained, pointing to a device resembling a cross between a telescope and a compass. "With the help of these tools, we can ensure a more efficient extraction process while minimizing the risk to our miners."
In general, the students of the Arcadia Hunter Academy came from high-end families, but they all aspired to be Hunter and Combatant. Therefore, almost none of them knew how the process was in many factories.
"Wow….I never expected it to be like this."
"Indeed."
The artifacts that were used gathered the attention of the students as they were colorful and potent in mana. Being sensitive to mana, they could see what couldn't be seen with naked eyes, impressing them.
That was also the case with me, as I was, in fact, overwhelmed by the raw amounts of mana present here. Therefore, I even needed to deactivate [Perceptive Insight] to some extent. This was something I had been pondering about in the past, as there were times when one could see things they mustn't see with their current strength.
Therefore, I created a method in my subconscious utilizing basic psychic magic. In fact, it wasn't complex since I was just dealing with myself.
In any case, with my deactivated eyes, I observed the process.
As many students watched in fascination, the guide detailed the intricate process of extracting Mana stones from the earth.
From drilling and blasting to carefully extracting the stones without damaging their magical properties, every step was executed with precision and expertise, and the guide explained it well enough.
"Now, you will see our first contact with mana stones."
While walking, we approached a room where the temperature noticeably rose.
'So, they are sealing the mana there, utilizing the heat?' The mana may look like something outside of reality, but in this world, it is not. The rules of the universe were made according to it, though who knew who made those rules?
Just as we were about to enter, I sensed a sudden movement and instinctively tilted my head, narrowly dodging a small stone hurtling toward me.
With a quick turn, I locked eyes with a girl standing nearby, a mischievous grin on her face as she chewed gum with casual nonchalance.
"Hey there, low-rank," she greeted, her voice carrying an annoying tone. "Quick reflexes. Did you take notes? Are you keeping up with your duties?"
The girl before me was Taylor Bowman, one of my assigned partners for this excursion. She exuded an air of confidence and privilege, likely due to her high-ranking status as the 212th-ranked student and heir to a Media Tycoon.
She was quite a beauty, clearly above the standards. Her make-up and ornaments were all first-class – obviously, some of them being artifacts.
Of course, I had already made a quick background check for all the students in my classroom. The game may not have been mentioned, but there could be some demon contractors in there. However, I couldn't find any in our class, though it didn't matter much. My channels were a little narrow back then, with me lacking the money to buy the necessary information.
And this girl before me was someone who was in the upper ranks of the academy and class, and she was the highest rank in my group.
She seldom assigned me a role while she was lazily looking around. This was the common type of acting from these types of heiresses.
"No."
"What?"
Her mouth twitched, hearing my refusal. Just then, the guy beside her narrowed his eyes, asking me, "What did you say?"
The guy's name was Asher Valencia, ranked 1058.
"No," I repeated calmly, meeting Taylor's gaze squarely.
Her reaction was immediate. Taylor's eyebrows furrowed in annoyance, and her lips formed a thin line. Clearly, she wasn't accustomed to being defied, especially by someone she considered beneath her.
Next to her, Asher's glare intensified, his voice rising slightly as he spoke, "How dare you refuse what-"
He was already taking sides, clearly licking Taylor's boots. It was the normal choice, and I didn't reprimand him. In a world where powerful people stepped on others, making connections was important. After all, academy life was limited, and many had families outside the academy.
"It is okay." But Taylor stopped Asher while raising her hand. At this point, some of the onlooker's attention was on us. Thus, she made a quick judgment.
'At least she is not stupid...'
Even Eleanor had turned her gaze to us.
Choosing not to engage in a confrontation, she simply shrugged and started walking.
As Taylor started walking past me, her voice barely audible, she whispered, "If I were you, I'd be careful."
Her words sent a slight chill, showing her intent, but I maintained my outward composure since it wasn't the first time. It was a warning, subtle yet clear.
"Is this a threat?"
"You can take it as one."
"I see."
With that exchange hanging in the air, Taylor continued past me, her demeanor unchanged despite my question.
It was clear that she didn't feel the need to conceal her intentions; after all, in this world of power plays, subtlety often held little value.
I followed behind Taylor, keeping a careful distance, while Asher trailed close behind her, still shooting me disapproving glances.
It was evident whose side he had chosen, but it wouldn't bother me. In this cutthroat environment, alliances were fluid, and loyalties could shift in an instant.
As we entered the room, the temperature noticeably rose, the air thick with humidity, and the scent of magic lingered in the air.
"Now, as you can see….."
******
As Taylor walked through the room, her mind churned with frustration and indignation.
How dare he disrespect her like that? The nerve of that low-ranking student to defy her authority in front of everyone.
She wore a smile on her face, but her eyes betrayed her true feelings, cold and calculating.
Seeing Taylor's expression, Asher sensed her displeasure and decided to intervene. "Should I deal with him?" he asked quietly, his voice laced with a hint of eagerness to please her. It was evident in her eyes, but she didn't mind.
In fact, she rather liked these types of guys, as they lowered their heads when it was needed.
She raised her eyebrows, considering her options. "What can you do?" she replied dismissively, her tone dripping with disdain.
A smile tugged at Asher's lips as he realized this was an opportunity to gain favor with Taylor.
Leaning in closer, he muttered his plan under his breath, his words barely audible over the ambient noise of the room.
"I see…" she mumbled and then nodded her head.
'Let's see how useful this bastard is.'
However, she also evaluated Asher inwardly.
******
As the tour of the room came to an end, the guide halted the group, announcing the conclusion of the three-hour excursion. The students murmured amongst themselves, exchanging whispers of excitement and curiosity.
Once the guide had their attention, she threw a quick glance at Eleanor, who nodded in response. With a confident demeanor, the guide posed a question to the students, her voice echoing in the cavernous space.
"Just as you have seen, we are using machines and artifacts for mining. But, how did the miners, before the machines were generalized, mine the stones?"
The question hung in the air, prompting the students to rack their brains for an answer. Some furrowed their brows in concentration while others exchanged uncertain glances.
Seeing no one stepping forward to answer, the guide cleared her throat and spoke up. "In the past, miners relied on their intuition of Mana to locate and extract the stones. It was a skill honed through years of experience and understanding of the natural flow of magical energy within the earth."
As her words settled over the group, Eleanor stepped forward, adding to the discussion. "Indeed, and now it's your turn to put your skills to the test. We'll be entering the tunnels shortly, where you'll have the opportunity to mine Magic Stones with your groups. This task will not only assess your mana sensitivity but also your creativity and intuition as aspiring Hunters."
With a nod from Eleanor, the guide led the way, guiding the students deeper into the labyrinthine tunnels of the mine.
*******
"Really?"
However, someone was not happy with what he was seeing in front of his eyes, as the darkness prevailed and the tunnel was blocked.
"She really did this, didn't she?"
Chapter 325 - Mine (2)
"How was it?"
On the outside of the rubbles, slightly rising, Asher raised his head, looking at the heiress he was trying to impress.
"….."
Taylor watched the scene with her cold eyes without responding. Though inwardly, she was feeling satisfied.
As Asher awaited Taylor's response, a slight tension crept into his demeanor, his eagerness to please her mingling with uncertainty. Did she find his efforts lacking? Was there something she disliked about his actions?
Taylor observed Asher's subtle shift in posture, her cold eyes betraying no emotion outwardly. However, inwardly, she felt a sense of satisfaction. "This guy is not bad," she thought to herself, impressed by Asher's usefulness and his ability to assert their dominance over others like Astron.
'But, he is a bit of a chicken, and this is a lot better.'
Sensing Asher's tension, Taylor couldn't help but feel a surge of power wash over her. She held the upper hand in these types of dynamics, able to influence his emotions with a mere glance or word, and she was addicted to it.
It had been like this from the start, in any case.
With a small chuckle, she decided to alleviate his anxiety.
"No, you did well," she said, her voice calm yet authoritative. "There's nothing to dislike."
Relief flooded over Asher as he heard Taylor's reassurance, his tense muscles relaxing as he realized he had succeeded in earning her approval.
'This crazy woman is like bipolar. I can't read her at all.'
Grateful for her 'acknowledgment,' he nodded slightly, a sense of calm warming his heart. But then again, it was only temporary as he heard her following words.
"Now, enter there and mine me some stones."
As Asher looked at Taylor, he noticed a subtle grin playing on her lips as she spoke. Her words carried a hint of authority, an order disguised as a request. Top of FormIt was like she was saying, from now on, you will be in my command.
"I-"
Just as he was about to say something, Taylor threw another provocation his way. "I guess you can't do it," she remarked casually, her tone taunting. "I thought this trait of yours enabled you to interact with the earth to blast this tunnel?"
Her words hit Asher like a slap in the face, as she had implied that it was obvious who made this tunnel like this.
'Sigh….I underestimated this woman's craziness.'
Sighing inwardly, he thought, shaking his head. And then he accepted his fate…..
******
"This tunnel is quite long."
I thought to myself, looking around. Now that I had been trapped in this place, I couldn't do anything other than walk deeper.
Of course, the situation I was in wasn't something grave. For miners, there is always the possibility of tunnels collapsing and them being trapped. Therefore, the academy had already given us the necessary tools to call them in case such a thing happened.
"Though it will affect our grades."
Calling the academy means that you are unable to solve your own problems as a Hunter, and this will result in a reduction of one's grades. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, as there are some situations that are beyond the scope of a student.
It will also affect one's reputation. This was likely why Taylor had done such a thing, as she wanted me to get a negative grade on this assignment.
'Childish games.'
With that thought, I continued my walk, observing the cave. Finding magic stones is not that hard if you have the necessary features under you.
"Mana Observation is probably the most fundamental method to utilize."
Normally, [Mana Observation], which was one of the most important advanced techniques for a hunter, would be utilized here.
However, from the moment my [Perceptive Insight] had evolved and increased its rank, I no longer needed to use it. It was already engraved in my subconsciousness, my brain doing it on its own.
Though I needed a blocker for it, after closing the mental switch I had constructed in my head, the mana veins immediately became visible in front of my eyes.
'The color of the Magic Stones represents the attribute of psions stored, and the radiance of it represents the density. However, I need to learn something to classify the density of mana stones. But I need to get more and more closer to it.'
Magic stones are basically chunks of mana veins that have gathered around some point. They are also called 'Nodes,' which are the intersection points of those veins.
'It represents the human body. I wonder if this whole planet can be considered a living being with all these mana veins and magic Stones. With the existence of mana, maybe it even has its own will.'
While observing, everything was fine, but the information was basically overwhelming. Seeing all these mana veins and trying to discern their intersection was too hard to continuously do that.
It was mentally taxing.
'This should be the reason why not many human detectors like me are not hired. We lack a machine's consistency.'
I could, of course, continue doing this, but at one point, both my mana and my mind were bound to be exhausted. That wouldn't be the case for the machines since as long as they had enough storage to keep data, they could move forward in a desired way.
Opening the switch once again, I limited my [Perceptive Insight] and then moved forward.
As I continued to walk deeper into the darkness of the tunnel, my senses attuned to the subtle fluctuations of mana around me.
The air grew thicker with each step, a tangible reminder of the vast network of mana veins that crisscrossed beneath the earth's surface.
'This should be enough.'
Finally, I reached a point where the concentration of mana seemed to peak, indicating the presence of magic stones nearby.
I reached out with my hand, feeling the rough texture of the rock beneath my fingertips.
Closing my eyes, I closed the switch, allowing the intricate patterns of mana veins to reveal themselves to my mind's eye. In the darkness, the magic stones glowed faintly, their colors representing the attributes of psions stored within.
'I see…So these are water-magic stones.'
Sensing the calmness of the water and its fluidity, I slowly counted the stones.
'There are five of them here. From its looks, all of them are around the level of low-grade Magic Stone.'
Feeling the mana, I estimated its diameter to be around 15 centimeters. Using this measurement, I calculated its approximate volume using the formula for the volume of a sphere. Assuming the stone was spherical in shape, the volume came out to be approximately 3,530 cubic centimeters.
'Though it is a little bit bigger than that since it has intrusions around the surface. But, according to what she mentioned, the average density of Water Magic Stones is around 2.65 grams per cubic centimeter. Multiplying the volume by the density, it can be estimated the weight of the stone to be approximately 9,345 grams or 9.345 kilograms.'
From then on, it was in the common knowledge. One could sell magic stones in the market at a price of 1000-100.000, which was dependent on the density of the pieces stored inside.
This would determine the quality of the stone. The ones before me were low-quality; thus, I would probably get approximately 9000U for the biggest one.
'Well, since I have basically undetectable storage, why not grab some stones for myself?'
After all, not every stone needed to be submitted to the academy….
'It will be a good way to train my mana control as well…'
With that, I started working.
******
In the dimly lit tunnel, the young man with a bulky build turned his head backward and asked. "What do you think? How long is it left?"
His voice was calm, but it was filled with authority. Behind him stood a girl. She had a slender figure, her short hair reaching only the end of her ears. Her eyes shone for a second as she observed the veins.
"I am sensing a good amount of Mana condensed around fifty meters. I think there are some mana stones there."
Her name was Becky, and she was an archer. Being in the role of scout in general, rangers tended to require strong senses. Though her rank wasn't that high, she at least trusted her senses enough.
"I see." Carl nodded and continued moving. However, Becky was somehow tense.
'Why am I in the same group as a ranker?'
She had been put into the same group as one of the strongest people in the academy as well as the heir of one of the heirs belonging to the Pentagon.
Also, it was the scariest of all of them since Carl had a bulky build and a serious face all the time.
"Don't get too tense; he is not that bad." At that moment, a voice came from her side. It was the remaining member of the group. His name was Martin Bryan. He was slightly on the lower-ranking side, but he was good at theory, which made his opinions valuable.
Becky glanced at him, her curiosity piqued by his cryptic words. "What do you mean?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.
Martin chuckled softly, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Mister Carl just looks serious and stern from the outside. In fact, he has a warm heart, and he is a good person," he explained.
'Mister Carl?'
Becky raised an eyebrow, sensing that Martin knew something more about Carl than he let on. "Why do you think so?" she inquired, her interest growing.
Martin's smile widened slightly as if reminiscing about something. "I once received his help," he replied simply.
Becky nodded, feeling a bit more at ease with Martin's words. She trusted his judgment, and if he believed that Carl was a good person, then perhaps there was more to him than met the eye.
Just then, Becky and Martin caught sight of Carl's silhouette approaching them silently.
"Mister Carl? Did something happen?" Martin called out to him, but there was no response.
SMASH!
Before they could react, a hammer came hurtling out of the darkness, striking Carl's head with a sickening thud.
THUD!
"Kyaaaa!"
Becky gasped in horror as Carl's body crumpled to the ground, his lifeless form slumping against the tunnel wall, its brain scattering around….
Chapter 326 - Mine (3)
"Kyaaaa-!"
The scream echoed in the tunnel as the huge body crumpled to the ground. It stood lifeless form slumping against the tunnel wall, its brain scattering around, pieces of flesh painted the wall dark red.
"Wha-"
Martin's mouth was wide agape as if he had witnessed the most horrifying scene of his life. His mind raced with disbelief and horror as he stared at the grisly scene before him. The image of Carl, the person he had respected and trusted, lying lifeless on the ground shattered his sense of security and understanding.
Despair and fear gripped Martin's heart as he struggled to comprehend what had just transpired. His thoughts whirled with questions and doubts, unable to make sense of the sudden and brutal attack.
Before he could utter a word, a figure emerged from the shadows, stepping forward with purpose. Martin's eyes widened in surprise as he recognized the silhouette, his heart pounding with a mixture of fear and dread.
"Who... who are you?" Martin stammered, his voice trembling with fear. "What is happening?"
The figure stepped closer, revealing himself to be the real Carl, his expression serious but with a little bit of annoyance, while holding the huge hammer in his hand.
"It was an enemy that took my appearance," Carl explained, his voice low and steady despite the chaos around them. "We're not alone down here."
Just as Carl finished his explanation, the body of the imposter he had smashed began to transform before their eyes. Martin watched in horror as the once-solid form turned black, its flesh deteriorating rapidly.
A putrid smell filled the air, making Martin gag and cover his nose with his sleeve. Smoke started rising from the ground where the imposter's body lay, curling upwards in eerie wisps.
As the smoke thickened, obscuring their view, Martin's heart raced with trepidation. What horror would be revealed next?
Slowly, the smoke dissipated, revealing a gruesome sight. Where the imposter's body had been, now lay a pile of bones and indiscernible flesh, twisted and contorted in a grotesque heap.
Martin recoiled in disgust, his stomach churning at the sight.
"Burghk-!"
Following that was a puke from Becky, as she witnessed everything. Martin didn't blame her as he was about to do the same if not for holding it with every bit of willpower he had.
"We need to be careful," Carl's voice broke through the tension, his gaze scanning their surroundings warily. "There may be more of them lurking in the shadows."
–SWOOSH!
But then, before he could say more, something flew through the darkness, aiming right into his eyes!
THUD!
Yet, with a fast movement, Carl's arm moved, and his hand grabbed the projectile. It was an arrow, an arrow that was specially made.
"Hmm?"
As Martin and Carl turned to look at the angle from which the project came, they saw the girl Becky trying to clean the puke from his mouth.
Becky raised her head, wiping the remnants of vomit from her mouth with a shaky hand. "What?" she asked, her voice weak and confused.
Martin felt a chill run down his spine, his mind reeling with confusion and fear. He couldn't discern who was real and who was not amidst the chaos and deception surrounding them.
Suddenly, a silhouette appeared beside Martin, causing him to startle. It was Becky—or at least, someone who looked like her. But this version of Becky was injured, her arm cut down and bleeding profusely.
Martin's heart sank as he realized the gravity of the situation. "Becky?" he whispered, his voice trembling with uncertainty.
The injured Becky mumbled through panting breaths, her words barely audible. "This girl... imposter," she gasped, her eyes wide with pain and fear. "But don't... don't say it... aloud...
to not... alert it."
Martin's mind raced as he processed her words. His already unstable mind didn't even doubt her words, seeing her injuries.
"Deal with….her secretly…I know…I can trust you…." Becky mumbled while retreating back to the darkness.
–CRACK!
But before anything else could happen, a sudden cracking sound echoed through the tunnel. Martin's heart skipped a beat as a pillar of earth erupted from the ground right where the injured 'Becky' had disappeared into the shadows.
The 'Becky' let out a bloodcurdling scream as the earth enveloped her.
Martin's eyes widened in shock as he felt a figure dash past him, the rush of air sending shivers down his spine. He turned just in time to see Carl's hammer strike down on the exact spot where the injured 'Becky' had been moments ago.
"What are you doing?" 'Becky' exclaimed in surprise, evading the strike at one last second.
"Huh?"
"Don't let it fool you, Martin." Carl's cold voice echoed around the place while looking around. He raised his hand and utilized his trait once again while looking at where the silhouette was.
CREAK!
The ground once again cracked, creating a cage of earth to trap the girl.
"Heh…." Yet, suddenly, 'Becky's' expression became twisted, her smile widening like a devil's. "Kekekekekekekeke…."
She laughed loudly, sending shivers down everyone's spine.
"Hope you will like my present~ After all, it won't be the end."
Martin's blood ran cold as he watched 'Becky' transform into a clump of black flesh before their eyes.
Suddenly, Carl's expression darkened as he sensed something amiss. Martin's heart pounded in his chest as he felt the ground tremble beneath them.
RUMBLE!
His worst fears were realized as the ground began to crumble, sending them all tumbling into darkness.
"NO!"
Both Becky and him were falling, but they were somehow spread from Carl. The fall seemed to be long and dangerous, but just as the two could feel the dread, they felt a sphere conjured from Earth enveloping them.
Yet the crumbling was what was happening all across the tunnels on the western side of the mine, though not as serious as this.
*******
"Hmm….This is quite tiring…"
I mumbled while looking at the Magic Stones I had mined.
"Fourteen low-quality and one mid-quality."
Counting the numbers, I calculated how much money I would make from this. Submitting some of them to the academy for grades was a must, but aside from that, I could just sell them.
As I finished my calculations, a sudden tremor ran through the ground beneath my feet.
At first, it was barely perceptible, but as I focused my senses, I realized that it was growing stronger by the second.
'This…There is no way such a tremor naturally happens.'
I realized that this wasn't a natural earthquake; it was something artificial from the findings. Then, again, I didn't have any time to analyze it more since it was approaching rapidly.
Instinct kicked in, and without hesitation, I grabbed the defensive capsule provided by the Blackthorn's. It was a special capsule to protect students in such situations, as neither the academy nor the Blackthorn's could deal with another scandal.
With practiced movements, I activated it and stepped inside, sealing myself within its protective shell just as the ground beneath me began to crumble.
With a deafening roar, the earth gave way beneath me, and I plummeted into darkness as the tunnel collapsed around me. Rocks and debris rained down, pummeling the capsule's reinforced exterior as I braced myself for the impact.
For a moment, time seemed to stand still as I hurtled through the darkness, the sound of my own heartbeat echoing in my ears. Then, with a bone-jarring thud, I slammed into the ground below, the force of the impact knocking the wind out of me.
"Haaaah….Haaaah….."
Gasping for breath, I struggled to regain my bearings as the dust settled around me as I left the capsule.
The defensive capsule had successfully held up against the onslaught, shielding me from harm as the tunnel collapsed above.
The adrenaline of the life danger coursed through my veins, but I forcefully calmed myself down.
"Sigh…." Releasing a hearty sigh, I couldn't help but feel a bit annoyed. First, I was trapped in a tunnel, and then I was buried in one of them. Standing up, I observed the place.
Brushing the dust and debris from my clothes, I took stock of my surroundings. The tunnel I found myself in now was different from the one I had been in before. Its ceiling was higher, allowing more space above, and the walls seemed to stretch further into the depths. There were no lights, but with Shadowborne, I was able to see in the dark as if it were normal.
However, as I examined the ground beneath me, I noticed something peculiar. Unlike the previous tunnel, which showed signs of recent activity with footprints and disturbed earth, this one appeared untouched.
The ground was smooth and undisturbed as if no one had set foot here in years. The mana traces around me were also saying the same.
'An abandoned tunnel. Just what I need…..'
Shaking my head, I was about to move, but I suddenly felt something.
SWOOSH!
From the darkness, a silhouette appeared. Even before I could look at its outline, I was forced to dash to the right, utilizing my full speed.
SMASH!
The place I was in was smashed with debris rising. A silhouette revealed himself there from the debris.
It was our bulky military guy with his hammer in his hand. He seemed to be a bit tense for some reason, though.
"Calm down."
I said, looking at him.
"Are you real?" He asked in response. His brown eyes looked cold, but he seemed to be doubtful.
"Real?"
'Something happened that made him question me the moment he saw me. Something is messing with his senses? An illusion? No, that can't be. I don't see any traces of illusion with [Perceptive Insight], and I would like to know if he was in a dream or not. His body state tells me there is no such thing.
Then, is there something else?
A clone? That can be possible. Did he encounter something that could copy other people's appearances? If that is so, there is only one thing I need to do.'
As those thoughts flashed in my head in a second, I raised my hand and then looked at him.
"I am different from the other students. Something about me tells you about it."
As I repeated the words he had spoken to me after we had sparred, he relaxed.
"I see….You are real." He also seemed to understand what I had implied. Whatever he had faced, I assumed he didn't have a long contact with it since it should appear in these tunnels.
"What happened here?" I asked, gesturing to the debris and the aftermath of the explosion.
"Sigh…"
And with a sigh, he started explaining everything that happened.
Chapter 327 - Mine (4)
After recounting everything to Astron, Carl looked at him, checking his response. This fellow before him was regarded as quite highly in his mind and in their circle.
He was especially known to be logical and observant. This was what he had heard from Irina, and in their spar, he was able to conclude this was the case.
With the tools given to them, the tunnel was being illuminated now. The reason why he attacked Astron initially was because he wasn't able to sense him before Astron entered the lethal range.
Astron didn't make any sounds, and his presence was concealed. He wasn't using the light in the darkness either, so Carl then made the assumption that he was an enemy. But then, after he had missed the first attack, he noticed that the enemy didn't have a clear killing intent different from the monster they had encountered.
This made him stop his consecutive attacks, and it was the right choice.
Astron listened intently as Carl recounted the events that had transpired in the tunnel. His mind processed the information, piecing together the sequence of events and the decisions Carl had made in the heat of the moment.
"So that is what happened," Astron mumbled, acknowledging Carl's explanation.
Sensing a question forming in Astron's mind, Carl waited for him to speak. Sure enough, Astron soon broke the silence with a thoughtful inquiry.
"The 'thing' you have encountered was able to take the form of your teammates, correct?" Astron asked, his brow furrowed in contemplation.
Carl nodded in confirmation, but he raised an eyebrow at the choice of words. "Yes, that's correct," he replied. "But why do you refer to it as a 'thing'? It was not a monster?"
Astron paused, considering his words carefully before responding. "I suppose 'thing' is a more neutral term," he explained. "It's difficult to categorize something that can mimic human form and intelligence, and it is always important to choose the words that you use as those words limit one's own subconsciousness.
If you use the word 'monster,' it generally implies the life forms coming out of dungeons, but this case may not necessarily stem from a dungeon. This may affect your thought process in general, making it hard for you to be open to a new perspective."
Hearing his words, Carl nodded, impressed. This guy certainly was not normal; aside from combat, his thought process and analyses were extraordinary. "Impressive."
With a nod, Astron received the compliment. "You do suspect that it was that monster that had caused this tunnel to collapse, right?"
"That's right." Carl thought back to the chilling words the creature had left echoing in the aftermath of their encounter. "Before it disappeared, the 'thing' left us with a haunting message," Carl began, his voice tinged with unease. "It said, 'Hope you will like my present. After all, it won't be the end.'"
Astron's brow furrowed in thought as he processed Carl's words. "That's quite ominous," he remarked, his tone serious. "It suggests that whatever this creature has planned, it's far from over. We need to be prepared for whatever comes next."
Carl nodded in agreement, the weight of the creature's words settling heavily on his shoulders. They were facing a formidable adversary, one capable of deception and destruction on a grand scale.
"Do you have something in your mind?" But looking at Astron, who somehow looked relaxed and composed, he got the feeling that he had an idea.
"What makes you think so?"
"I had seen a lot of soldiers." He didn't elaborate on it any further.
"I see." Astron realized that, even though he had complete control over his body and mimics, there would always be oddballs like Carl who could somehow 'sense' what the person before him thought. This couldn't be tied to a clear logic, either.
"Well, I do have something in my mind," Astron said, channeling his mana to the tip of his finger, creating a small mana blade. And then, he started drawing on the ground.
As Astron channeled his mana and began drawing on the ground, Carl watched intently, curious about what thoughts were running through his companion's mind.
After a moment of silence, Astron spoke, his voice measured and thoughtful. "We know that this 'thing' has the ability to transform its body, taking the form of other people," he began, tracing intricate patterns with his mana blade. "It can mimic their voice clearly enough to deceive even those closest to them."
Carl nodded in agreement.
"But," Astron continued, his expression grave, "this 'thing' also has the ability to cause quakes, and from how it seems, it knows these tunnels well."
Again, Carl nodded, his brow furrowing with concern. The creature's ability to manipulate the earth itself added another layer of danger to their already perilous situation.
"Though all these traits are not common," Astron said, his voice trailing off slightly, "there is one 'thing' that fits this explanation."
Carl's eyes widened in realization as Astron's words sank in. "An Earth Spirit." He then realized why, even at the start, Astron didn't use the words monster. Because an Earth Spirit was not a monster but something rather different.
'Did he know even at the start?' Carl asked himself, feeling a little bit terrified of this guy now.
"I suspect it is a mutated one." Astron nodded, standing. He had already started influencing the academy and the other main cast, so he was becoming more active.
"Mutated one…."
"Yes. Though, in general, the spirits can change forms, they dislike taking other people's forms since it goes against their self-identity. However, this spirit seems to like it, and it also has a different goal. And, it is rather dangerous."
"….." Carl didn't answer but understood what Astron implied. The parting words of the spirit and the quake made it clear that its intentions weren't good. "Then we should move." Following that, he instantly stood up.
As a soldier and a member of the Braveheart Family, Carl knew it was his responsibility. It was the code of Bravehearts, 'don't ignore the misfortune that may befall others.'
And Astron, knowing Carl's character, didn't object to it. However, he had something different in his mind.
'If my theory is correct, then I will be able to make a really good haul from this.'
Inwardly, he thought and then started following Carl.
********
"Tch, what the hell is this?"
In the darkness, the short-white-haired girl looked around, clearing the debris from her clothes.
She didn't have any injuries, but she somehow had an annoyed face.
"Just know, everything was going well, but then some bastard decided to collapse the tunnel? If I find them, I will crush their bones."
CREAK!
At that moment, she heard a cracking sound coming from the side. In an instant, she took a combat stance, pulling her sword from her spatial ring.
"Tututututu…..Are you okay?"
But suddenly she heard the familiar voice of a young guy.
"I am fine. Thank you….."
Followed by the voice of a girl. The girl's voice didn't strike as unfamiliar, but it was also not that familiar. In a way, she felt like she heard this voice a lot, but she wasn't hearing it frequently.
–PUFF!
Following that, smoke rose from the debris with a puffing sound. There, a capsule revealed itself, and from that, two people rose up.
"Ethan?"
Julia reacted first, as the guy getting out was someone just like she thought.
"Ah, Julia," Ethan revealed a smile. "You fell down as well." He was happy that his friend was safe.
"Yeah, I did." But, for Julia, she was rather embarrassed. This was because she forgot that she had a capsule given to them and rather went a troublesome way to fall down without injuring herself.
"Umm…." Then, she noticed the person beside Ethan. Flowing chestnut hair and clear blue eyes. She remembered the person as the girl sitting on the right side of the classroom.
Emily Anderson.
"Ah, right…." Ethan released his arms as he supported her in standing up. Emily somehow had a red face, feeling embarrassed.
"Thank you." With a slight thanks, she widened the distance.
Julia glanced at Ethan with a puzzled expression. "So, you two fell down randomly too?" Ethan nodded, his expression serious.
"Yeah, it was unexpected. We were exploring the tunnel when we felt the tremors. We realized it was about to collapse, so we activated the emergency capsule."
"Quick thinking. Good thing you had that capsule with you."
"You didn't have?"
"I did. But I already close it."
The newly formed trio continued to talk with them.
********
In the tunnel, Irina found herself in a rather troublesome situation. It was because she was in front of someone that she didn't expect at all.
After falling down, thanks to the quake, she used a capsule and protected herself. Using fire in such closed spaces was definitely dangerous, as the smoke would make it hard to breathe.
But then, she met someone she didn't expect.
"Where are you going?"
The current first-ranked student of the academy first-year. The guy had a cold and icy demeanor but was in the hearts of many.
The strongest person in the youngest generation.
"I am going to find the source of this quake."
As well as the heir of the owner of these mines.
Victor Blackthorn.
"Really? What will you do once you find it?" Irina asked, following him. Now, the situation somehow became different from the supposed course; she didn't refuse.
She also disliked being alone in such darkness, but she would never say it, of course.
Victor paused for a moment, his piercing gaze fixed on Irina. After a beat, he spoke, his voice measured and deliberate, "I will do what is necessary."
"Is that so?" Irina shrugged, matching her steps with him. "Do you know how to find it?" she inquired, her tone casual as she glanced at Victor.
Victor's response was terse, his voice carrying a hint of annoyance. "I have my own methods."
"What kind of methods? Is there anything I can help with?" She asked naturally.
"My methods don't concern you. And I don't need your help."
His words hung in the air, conveying a sense of independence and self-assurance. Irina sensed the subtle shift in his demeanor, recognizing that he wasn't keen on engaging in conversation.
This was how Victor had been from the start—the same guy who gave the terse replies to everything she said and acted like a wall no matter what she did.
"I see."
Irina nodded, but her mind was pondering on something. In the past, whenever something like this happened, she would feel hurt and anger inside. She would feel that it was unfair. After all, she admired Victor and liked him for a long time.
'But, why don't I feel anything?'
Yet now, it was different. She neither felt annoyance nor felt disappointed. She felt nothing at all, as she just naturally accepted Victor's words.
'Is it because I am used to it? It must be because of that.'
She came to the conclusion, though she couldn't help but think about how things would be if he were there rather than Victor.
"It would be fun, wouldn't it?" she mumbled to herself, her words barely audible in the confines of the tunnel. The thought of a different scenario where someone else was here lingered in her mind, though she quickly pushed it aside.
In the dim light, Victor glanced at Irina for a moment, his expression unreadable. But without a word, he continued walking forward, his pace unwavering.
His silence spoke volumes, and Irina couldn't help but feel a pang of understanding at the realization that some walls were meant to remain unbroken and some people meant to stay behind those walls.
Chapter 328 - Mine (5)
TAP! TAP!
The rhythmic sound of Astron and Carl's footsteps echoed through the tunnel as they continued forward, the soft glow of the light in their hands casting eerie shadows on the walls.
As they walked, they noticed signs that the tunnel had once been frequented by others. There were remnants of old bearings, worn and weathered from years of use. Tools lay scattered along the ground, their handles covered in dust and rust from disuse.
Carl bent down to examine one of the abandoned tools, running his fingers along its surface with a thoughtful expression. "It seems like this tunnel was once actively used," he remarked, his voice echoing softly in the confined space.
"That is right." Astron nodded, already having reached that conclusion. "But it was way too long ago. This equipment wasn't the ones that were shown to us."
"I thought the same." Carl agreed. Though he wasn't an expert when it came to mining or technical things like these, he at least had the basic knowledge.
HOWL!
Just at that moment, the wind howled in the tunnel, alerting the two. An eerie feeling enveloped both of them as if there was an enemy in front of them.
Carl, being constantly in such a situation, was already accustomed to it. Instinctively, he tensed, his senses in high alert as he scanned the darkness ahead.
SWOOSH!
Suddenly, Carl caught movement out of the corner of his eye. Before he could react, Astron lunged at him with the pickaxe they had been given to mine. Carl's reflexes kicked in, and he swiftly grabbed Astron's weapon, twisting it out of his grasp with practiced ease.
With a quick motion, Carl delivered a powerful punch to Astron's chest, sending him staggering backward. 'Astron' spat out a black substance, his features contorted in pain and rage.
Before the substance could dissipate, Carl heard a slicing sound as well as a flash. He turned to see Astron's head roll to the ground, severed cleanly from his body. He saw Astron standing behind the impostor, a dagger in his hand.
But before they could catch their breath, another silhouette emerged from the darkness, wielding a massive hammer aimed at Astron's neck.
"!"
In an instant, Carl's body moved as he saw the hammer approaching.
CREAK!
From the ground, a pillar of earth instantly rose up, hitting the hand holding the hammer. It worked as a disruption of motion and slightly changed the trajectory of the attack.
SWOOSH!
And then he rushed to the assailant.
But to his surprise, as Carl charged toward the assailant behind Astron, he felt the ground beneath him begin to shift and tremble. It was as if the earth itself was rising up to impede his progress, disturbing his balance and slowing his movements.
Realization dawned on Carl as he recognized the sensation. It was one of the skills he had derived from his [Earthen Giant], the ability to manipulate the earth itself. But now, it seemed that his own skill was being turned against him by their assailant.
"Be careful!" Carl shouted, his voice filled with urgency. But when he glanced back to where Astron had been standing, he realized that he was no longer there.
CRASH!
The hammer flew past the spot where Astron had stood just moments before, its impact sending vibrations through the ground.
WOOSH!
But then suddenly, Carl's eyes picked up a subtle movement. He saw Astron behind 'himself,' attacking from above.
'He went to the ceiling?'
Note that the ceiling wasn't low, and it was at least 8 meters high.
SLASH!
With a smooth movement, Astron's dagger flashed in silver light, and then he cut the 'Carl' into pieces, making it fall to the ground.
"Kekekekekekeke….."
As Astron's dagger flashed in silver light, cutting the imposter into pieces, chilling laughter echoed through the tunnels once again, sending shivers down their spines. The laughter seemed to emanate from the depths of the darkness, its eerie tone filling the air with a sense of foreboding.
Then, cryptic words followed, spoken as if by someone driven mad by the depths of the tunnels.
"In shadows deep where echoes creep,
Forgotten souls in silence keep.
Abandoned by light, in darkness sealed,
I ask of you, can truth be revealed?"
Before they could even process the meaning behind the words, the tunnels began to tremble once more. A wave of earth, like an avalanche, poured down from the tunnel they had entered from, threatening to engulf them in its fury.
With no time to spare, Astron and Carl were forced to rush forward, their instincts guiding them through the darkness.
Carl utilized his [Earthen Giant] ability, creating a landslide to propel them forward as they slid through the darkness.
As Astron and Carl slid through the darkness, propelled by the force of the landslide, they eventually reached a cavern where many tunnels intersected, creating a vast underground expanse.
CRUSH! BOOM!
Then, the avalanche of rocks hit and crushed the tunnel, blocking the entrance.
Carl and Astron took cover for a second until everything finished.
"….." Neither of the two spoke as they walked out of their cover, observing the place.
The cavern was eerily silent, with only the faint echoes of their movements reverberating through the stillness.
Despite the dim lighting, they could make out remnants of the past when this place was frequented by others. Tools lay abandoned, their surfaces worn and rusted from years of neglect. Small doors showed signs of corrosion, hinting at a time when they might have led to other chambers or passages.
However, what disturbed them the most were the scattered skeletons strewn about the cavern floor. The bones lay where they had fallen, seemingly forgotten by time, a grim reminder of lives lost in this desolate place. Some of the skeletons appeared to have been there for centuries, their remains weathered and decayed by the passage of time.
"This…." Even Carl was disturbed by the amounts of skeletons. It was as if a massacre had happened here.
Whatever had transpired in this forsaken place, it was clear that it held dark secrets buried within its depths.
"How many people died here?" Just as he asked, he saw Astron looking at the place around.
"No….They didn't die here." Astron mumbled, slightly crouching to look at the ground. "Their remains were brought to this place."
After all, it didn't make any sense for miners to die in such a huge cavern unless something extreme happened.
Hearing this, Carl sensed it as well. There were marks of earth being moved on the ground. Knowing how Earthen spells worked from his trait, Carl easily inferred the purpose of the spell used there.
Though Carl was unaware of it, Astron, with his eyes, could see the amounts of mana veins gathered right before the passage.
'We are close.'
He knew they were about to find the source of everything. Of course, at this point, the theory in his mind was strengthened by what they were seeing.
All of them fit the thing he thought aside from one thing.
"Kekekekekeke…."
As the creepy laughter echoed once again, the dimmed lights in the cavern suddenly flickered to life, casting an eerie glow upon the scene. The earth beneath their feet began to quake once more, adding to the sense of foreboding that filled the air.
"Did you like the riddle?" the voice taunted playfully, its tone filled with mischief. "You will get it more, don't worry."
With a sense of urgency, Carl watched as the skeletons scattered around the cavern started to rise, one by one, their forms encased in earth as they transformed into undead creatures.
"Once lost below, now call my name,
In whispers soft, I'm still the same.
Though time has worn the stones to dust,
I linger on, in echoes thrust.
What am I, in this realm of gloom?
A spirit bound, denied a tomb.
Yet in these depths, my plea I cast,
To those who roam, in shadows vast.
Answer true, and find your way,
Through tunnels dim, where spirits stray.
For in the heart of darkness lies,
The key to break eternal ties."
With each word, the skeletons became more and more profound, as if they were rising humans.
Carl threw a look at Astron and saw he was looking at him, too. "Can you deal with them?" Astron asked, without anything much.
Carl assessed the situation and saw it wasn't hard to deal with. Though it would tire him out eventually, this situation wasn't something that exceeded the combat prowess of such a high-ranker.
"I can."
"Then, I will leave this place to you," Astron stated calmly, preparing to move.
Carl looked at Astron and felt a sense of assurance. Despite the chaos around them, he knew that Astron wouldn't simply run away. He wasn't foolish enough to abandon a person like Carl, as that would mean making an enemy out of him.
"Can you deal with the Earthen spirit?" Carl asked, seeking confirmation.
Astron nodded confidently. "Yes, I am sure I can handle it," he replied.
Carl raised an eyebrow at Astron's response, sensing that there was more to it than met the eye.
However, he chose not to press further. Astron had proven himself to be resourceful and insightful, and Carl trusted his judgment.
With a nod, Astron dashed through the cavern, disappearing into one of the tunnels. Carl watched him go, feeling a sense of responsibility settle over him as he prepared to face the undead creatures alone.
Turning his head to look at the enemies, he took a deep breath and then faced the huge numbers.
******
Inside the eastern sides of the tunnels, many of the students were not aware of what was happening on the other side.
They were walking around with their teams, mining for the stones.
"Lucas, we have finished our side."
A young man approached Lucas, who was mining his own stones. His name was Kayn.
"Both of you?"
"Yes."
"Okay, we can move then."
Lucas continued to chip away at the stone, carefully severing its connection to the Mana Veins. With a final strike, he dislodged the stone and dusted off his hands.
"Done," he announced to Kayn, who nodded in approval.
As they walked through the dimly lit tunnels, Lucas couldn't shake the feeling of unease that lingered in his mind. He had been investigating Astron Natusalune, but he couldn't come up with clear clues as to why he had changed this much.
'That guy bothers me…..I feel like I need to eliminate him.'
For him, who had already seen the future and found his resolve, things like these didn't matter.
After a short while, they encountered another group of students up ahead. At the forefront of the group was someone he was having a hard time dealing with as well.
"Lucas."
"Lilia."