Minefield

The arrow, flying at high speed, pierced the sandworm that was focused on devouring the raised horse, sending purple lightning coursing through its body.

The sandworm went still.

But there was no time to waste. The presence of one meant others were likely nearby.

They had to leave this place quickly!

Knowing exactly what needed to be done, the group heading toward the minefield began moving swiftly.

We hurried to catch up as well. No time to waste— if things get really bad, I'll activate the magic tricycle at full power and evacuate as many people as possible.

"Rilka! Get on the cargo bed!"

Forced by Erine's firm command, Rilka reluctantly climbed onto the platform.

I subtly channeled a bit of magical energy into the magic tricycle, ensuring it could accelerate to full speed at any moment.

A subtle vibration intensified, making the load feel extraordinarily light, despite carrying people or heavy cargo.

This sandstorm. The sound of wind and sand colliding all around prevents the sandworm from accurately pinpointing our position.

As expected, the sandworm randomly veers off the path, lunging out and opening and closing its mouth erratically. It still clearly doesn't know exactly where we are.

I pushed forward with all my might, praying it wouldn’t lunge any closer. Eventually, the harsh sandstorm quieted down.

The group slowed their pace as they moved.

Sunlight broke through. Though the sandstorm had ended, noise still echoed in my ears.

We had finally reached the mining site. In the end, the sandworm’s only real damage was during that first encounter—nothing serious—and no one was injured.

The area near the mining site had been leveled and reinforced with layers of sandstone, making it easy to walk on. Shacks were lined up on top of it, and many people were moving about.

"It's too late today. Let's rest somewhere and start our activities tomorrow."

Neither of them objected, so they decided to rest.

However, there was no facility resembling a guild dormitory. Instead, they set up tents in a cluster of tents and spent the night there.

The morning at the mine is early.

Even before the sun has fully risen, sharp clanging sounds and dull thuds of something being dug up can be heard.

It’s clear that many people are already active at such an early hour.

But our purpose here is not mining.

We’re searching for a traveling merchant who’s arrived at the mine early in the morning.

There are many people around.

I thought finding the traveling merchant would be difficult, but surprisingly, I found them quite quickly—after all, the merchant was among the many people walking about.

I managed to gather the magic stones I needed without much trouble.

"What shall we do? We could head back right away, but since we've come this far, how about we take a little look around?"

"You're right. Now that we know the way and the weather looks good, we can push the magic tricycle to its full speed and reach the village in half a day. How about exploring the area this morning?"

"Yesss!"

Rilka jumps up energetically.

"Rilka, you're supposed to stay with me!"

Rilka pouts slightly but seems to accept it without protest.

Well, if these two are going to stick together, there's no need to worry. Then I'll go check on something I've been curious about.

I looked for a traveling merchant who trades closer to the mining site.

The mining site is shrouded in dust stirred up by the people working there. It doesn't seem like a pleasant environment at all.

Strong men are digging up the ground with immense force, while behind them, well-dressed men shout out fiery speeches.

Further back, men wearing slightly better clothes are gathering around those dressed in finer attire. It's quite obvious.

But my target isn't people like that. I quickly scan the area and spot him right away.

Clearly an independent merchant—no, more like a young man trying to curry favor with someone.

"Hey, you there, got a minute?"

"What? I'm busy."

"I'd like to borrow a bit of that liquid gemstone behind you."

"This won't do. This is a valuable item. I'm not selling it to some senseless guy like you."

"Still not enough?"

Saying that, he handed over a slightly larger amount of gold coins. The man immediately changed expression and began frantically searching through the cargo platform.

"Fine, fine... just a little bit, okay?"

He then handed over a small bottle filled to the brim with liquid gemstone.

"Thank you. I'll remember this kindness."

The liquid gemstone I received was thick and viscous, glowing with a deep blue hue.

This is liquid gemstone—completely odorless. It doesn't feel oily like petroleum.

Rumors say it has no noticeable effect on its own, but can amplify the power of gemstones, or when processed skillfully, can produce a variety of effects—some claim it does, others say it doesn't, with all kinds of stories floating around.

I don't know for sure, but it's worth giving it a try.

I got what I wanted and headed toward the meeting spot. There, I found Rilka, her eyes shining with excitement, and Erine, clearly exhausted. I could immediately tell what had happened.

Since I knew the way back, I sped off on the magic tricycle as planned.

I encountered a few sandworms, but they moved slowly, so if the ground was already trampled, we had the advantage.

I raced through as planned and returned to town by the time the sun had set.

That night, I went to bed quickly and began preparations to return to Luna Village early the next morning. At that moment, I heard a voice I suddenly recognized.

"Hey there, travelers. How about a guide to help with your journey?"