Chapter 6 Expedition to Stones
On a gray evening in the port city of Alexandria, the sea breeze whispered secrets of ancient tales, while the cobblestone streets shimmered under the dim glow of gas lamps. The sky was a canvas of muted grays, hinting at the encroaching twilight, setting an evocative backdrop for the adventures that awaited.
As the sky was adorned with a fading orange hue, Fitran stepped slowly into the Adventurer's Guild headquarters in Alexandria. The atmosphere in the meeting room was filled with laughter and the chatter of adventurers discussing their latest exploits, creating a warm and spirited moment. However, beneath the bustle, Fitran's intentions extended beyond mere small talk; he was searching for the renowned ancient artifact expert, George, to discuss an ambitious expedition aimed at obtaining the heart of the Ancient Golem, the legendary guardian of Stones, who had been dormant for thousands of years. More importantly, he sought to uncover secrets that could reshape history by unveiling new knowledge that could influence the future.
Fitran walked towards a quieter corner of the room, where George, widely known for his deep knowledge of ancient artifacts, was arranging several manuscripts and maps. Although George appeared relaxed in his tattered clothing adorned with the guild's emblem, his gaze reflected the certainty of an expert who had seen and experienced much, adding to the allure of this seasoned individual.
Fitran approached the long wooden table filled with maps and ancient books. He greeted with a wise smile, "Good evening, George. Allow me to convey the purpose of our meeting today. I have heard that your knowledge of ancient artifacts is extraordinary, and I need it for a mission."
The elderly man, aristocratic in appearance with neatly styled silver hair and a curled mustache, wore classic attire, including a long coat with a wide collar, a vest, and a jabot tie. His expression was calm and confident, with one eye closed as if bearing a scar or having lost sight on that side, which added a mysterious aura to this richly experienced character, evoking respect among those who knew him.
"This is not like you," George remarked, alluding to Fitran's demeanor.
Fitran smiled as if wanting to show a different side of himself.
Then George raised an eyebrow while looking at Fitran with a gaze mixed with curiosity and caution. "Ah, Fitran. Good to see you at the last moments of the sun. Tell me, what is the urgency of this mission? I have heard rumors about Stones, but I have never heard a concrete plan like the one you imply."
With a serious tone resonating in the room, Fitran replied, "We will embark on an expedition to Stones, a place rumored to be home to the legendary creature, the Ancient Golem, which, in its long slumber, holds extraordinary secrets. The heart of this creature is believed to possess energy capable of transforming civilization, even challenging the laws of nature with its unexplored abilities. I am confident that, with your expertise in artifacts, we can delve into hidden historical clues, allowing us to explore lore and knowledge that may have remained undiscovered, including its potential impact on our society."
George showed suspicion towards Fitran's strange demeanor.
George then opened one of the ancient manuscripts and looked towards Fitran. "It is true that Stones is known as a place full of mysteries. However, missions like this are never easy. Many have tried, and history records that only a handful have ever succeeded in approaching those secrets. Please explain, how can you convince me that this expedition is not a fatal step? What will we do to handle the existing threats?"