Dark Chronicle: Long Live the Queen

Chapter 22: Genie in a Mine

The following day, Max and Monica made their way back to the entrance of the Zelmite mine, ready to resume their exploration. Monica hopped onto the cart that would transport her to the location where they had previously confronted Flotsam. Meanwhile, Max followed closely behind on his upgraded Ridepod, the rollerblade feet he had fashioned providing agility and speed that allowed him to keep pace with the cart as they ventured deeper into the heart of the mine.

As they passed the breakroom, Max skilfully utilized his Ridepod to pry open the door leading further into the depths where the Zelmite awaited.

"This is our moment," Max stated with a resolute and fearless gaze. "Are you prepared, Monica?"

"I have been ready," Monica retorted, her expression emanating determination and readiness for the challenges ahead. "Let's secure that Zelmite and forge a brighter tomorrow."

The duo surged forward, venturing deeper into the labyrinthine mines with unwavering determination, resolute in their commitment to see the task through to completion.

The once-menacing monsters that had posed a significant threat now seemed trivial in comparison, a testament to the ten days of dedicated training and preparation both Max and Monica had undergone. Monica seamlessly blended her sword skills with magical prowess, while Max adeptly maneuverer his Ridepod's newly enhanced weaponry, utilizing the advantages provided by the rollerblade feet to evade and counter with precision and strike back with the Nova cannons. Together, they navigated the challenges with practiced skill and unity, steadfast in their resolve to overcome any obstacle standing between them and the Zelmite ore they sought to secure.

After hours of relentless traversal and combat through each level of the mines, Max and Monica reached the deepest heart of the Zelmite mines, only to encounter an impassable obstacle—a blockade of rubble that would require a group effort to clear. Recalling a resource he had acquired earlier, Max's memory jogged back to stumbling upon a cache of dynamite within a chest tucked away in one of the dead-end corridors they had explored.

With the dynamite in hand, Max recognized that this unexpected discovery presented a potential solution to their current predicament. This explosive tool could prove instrumental in not only blasting away the impediment before them but also in paving the way for their continued progress deeper into the mines in search of the coveted Zelmite ore. Anticipation mounted as Max prepared to deploy the dynamite.

Max deftly positioned the dynamite atop the rubble and bellowed, "FIRE IN THE HOLE!" in a booming voice that echoed through the cavernous chamber. Without hesitation, both he and Monica swiftly retreated to a safe distance, ensuring they were out of harm's way when the explosion occurred.

As the dynamite detonated and the blockade disintegrated, clearing their path, a mesmerizing sight awaited them beyond the debris. Their eyes widened in wonder as they beheld the abundance of mint-coloured crystals that adorned the chamber walls, casting a serene and ethereal glow across the space. The sheer beauty and rarity of the Zelmite ore that enveloped the surroundings left Max and Monica in awe, marking a remarkable discovery in their arduous journey through the depths of the mines.

"Got it! Right there!" Max exclaimed in exhilaration, realizing they had finally located the sought-after prize they had been tirelessly searching for. "Zelmite Ore... This can be turned into fuel for the Blackstone rail trains. "

Monica, standing beside Max, gazed in wonder at the radiant hues and dazzling colours of the ore before them. " Wow! It's pretty. " She marvelled, struck by the stunning and vibrant appearance of the Zelmite ore.

As Max and Monica drew nearer to the shimmering Zelmite ore, a chilling echo reverberated through the chamber, sending a shiver down their spines. "So, you think you can take my jewels, eh? " Taunted the menacing voice in a raspy tone. " I'll not allow it! "