As the sun set behind the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape, Haden, Drue, Talik, Alster, and you arrived at Tower One. The journey had been a rare moment of peace, a time for quiet reflection that had brought you all closer together. The intense quest you were on seemed momentarily less daunting as you shared stories, laughter, and a sense of camaraderie.

That reflection proved fruitful as an inspiring thought crossed your mind. You remembered the sprite's words: "Only a shield crystal held by a warrior and used the right way, combined with a healer's incantation of warmth and heat to evaporate water, and a mage's use of light darts."

“We need to know the ‘right’ way to use the shield crystal,” you said, turning to Haden. “Have you ever used one before?”

Haden nodded slowly. “Yes, but not like this. The description of the type of shield makes me think that it seems to need more energy than a normal crystal holds . I’ve never charged a crystal or made one produce energy beyond its apparent capacity.”

The group gathered in a circle, pondering the possible ways to unlock the crystal’s power.

“Maybe it needs to be exposed to a powerful energy source, like the lava streams,” suggested Talik.

“Or perhaps we need to combine our abilities directly with the crystal, simultaneously,” Alster added.

“Could it be that we need to perform some kind of ritual? Something that aligns with the sprite’s incantations?” you proposed.

As you discussed, Drue casually flipped the crystal to Haden. The crystal spun in the air, catching the light in a dazzling display, and then something unexpected happened—it began to levitate, drifting slowly towards the river of lava flowing south from the Home Tower into Tower One.

“Think it wants us to follow that lava stream,” said Haden, eyes wide with amazement.

You all agreed and, with a mix of excitement and apprehension, followed the crystal as it led the way. “What did you do?” asked Alster, glancing at Haden.

“Nothing,” Haden replied with a shrug. “I just missed!”

The crystal led you to a large pool of blue lava, the air around it shimmering with intense heat. Slowly, the crystal lowered until its tip touched the surface of the lava. It glowed and vibrated, the intensity building as it emitted a resonant sound that filled the air.

You all stepped back, watching curiously as the pool of lava began to cool and turn black. “I think it’s charged,” said Talik, eyes fixed on the crystal.

“Pick it up,” Alster urged Haden.

“You pick it up,” Haden retorted.

With a sigh, Drue stepped forward, extending a fingertip to touch the crystal. It was cool to the touch. He grasped it firmly and turned to face the group. “I think it’s ready, but what is the "right" way to use it?”

Silence fell over the group as you all contemplated the next steps, the weight of the quest pressing down once more. The crystal, now brimming with potential energy, held the key to your success. But unlocking its full power would require not just skill, but together, you knew you would find the way. 

What is the "right" way? Explain what you think it is in Thy Quests below to continue. 

Next: E8Q2 Tower Two