The crew reached a high area within the forest, surrounded by massive boulders and dense trees. In its center stood a small, half-ruined stone building, its walls covered in ancient inscriptions.
"This is where my brother Vorin trained," Morir said, pointing. "No one has come here for years."
"Nice!" Darius said, laughing. "Finally, a place where nothing flies or crawls on us!"
"Don't rush," Kallias said, examining the walls. "The place is deserted… but not empty."
"We need a rest… but let's not forget caution," Linus said, watching the sky.
*
They entered the hideout and began cleaning the floor.
"Are we staying here long?" Romulus asked, moving stones.
"Until we have a clear plan," Linus replied. Nikos, sitting near the wall, said, "Morrer... tell us more about the gems. How do we know where they are?"
*
Morrer said, sitting with them, "Each gem has a special symbol. The black gem bears the emblem of a line with a white circle in the middle. The blue gem bears an inverted triangle, the red one has a flame-like shape, and the green one has a leaf symbol."
Callias asked, "Are these symbols found in specific places?"
Morrer replied, "Yes. Engraved on ancient walls, or hidden in maps known only to those raised within the Guardian Families."
*
Linus said, "Do you know where the next gem is?"
Morrer replied, "I think the Blue Gem is on an island called Arthalon. But it's protected by giant aquatic creatures, and can only be accessed through an underwater tunnel."
Darius laughed, "An underwater tunnel? Wonderful! A new adventure!"
Callias said sharply, "Have you forgotten that we barely escaped the first island?"
*
Romulus jotted down, "So our plan is this: hide the Black Jewel, find Arthalon, and prepare to confront whoever guards it."
Linus said, "But before that... we must confront the Mercor family. We cannot leave them behind."
Morrer looked down at the ground, "I know how my father thinks. He will send my brothers one by one. Each one has a different style."
Nikkos said, "Can we confront them?"
Morrer replied, "If we cooperate... yes."
*
Linus stood up, "Then we begin training. Each of us must master the use of the Jewel and know how to deal with our opponents."
Darius drew his sword, "I'm ready! Who's first?"
Callias said sarcastically, "Start alone... until you learn patience." Romulus said, "Let's divide ourselves into groups. Train, guard, and plan." Linus said, "Good idea. Start now."
*
As they began training, Morir stood at a distance, silently watching them.
"Are you okay?" Nikos asked, approaching him.
"I feel something strange... as if I'm betraying my own blood," Morir replied.
"You're not betraying anyone," Nikos said. "You're choosing what's right."
"Maybe... but the road isn't easy," Morir said, smiling faintly.