Chapter 8: The Scholar's Secret

The journey to the next town, Ashford, was long and arduous. The group moved quickly, driven by the urgency of their mission. Ethan kept the tablet close, its weight a constant reminder of the perilous path ahead. The artifact's glow had dimmed since the battle with the golem, as if conserving its energy for the challenges to come.

Ashford was a bustling town, its streets filled with merchants, travelers, and townsfolk. The contrast to the desolate ruins and dangerous wilderness was stark. As they made their way through the town, they drew curious glances but no one approached them. The group headed straight for the library, a grand structure at the town's center.

Inside, the library was a labyrinth of shelves packed with ancient tomes and scrolls. The musty scent of old paper filled the air, and the soft rustling of pages turned by diligent scholars was the only sound.

"We need to find someone who can help us translate this tablet," Ethan said, scanning the room.

A librarian, a middle-aged woman with sharp eyes and an air of authority, approached them. "Can I assist you?" she asked.

Ethan held up the tablet. "We're looking for information on ancient runes and artifacts. This tablet is key to something very important, and we need to understand it."

The librarian's eyes widened slightly as she examined the tablet. "These runes are very old. We have a scholar here who specializes in ancient languages and scripts. His name is Professor Alden. Follow me."

They followed the librarian through the maze of shelves to a secluded corner of the library, where a tall, thin man with a wispy beard and spectacles was immersed in a pile of scrolls.

"Professor Alden," the librarian said, getting his attention. "These travelers need your expertise."

Alden looked up, his eyes lighting up with curiosity as he saw the tablet. "Fascinating! Where did you find this?"

"In an ancient temple," Ethan replied. "We believe it holds clues about an artifact we're carrying."

Alden motioned for them to sit at a nearby table. "Let me see it."

Ethan handed him the tablet, and Alden began to study the runes intently. "These are indeed very old. They speak of the Eternal Gate, a legendary construct said to grant immense power to those who can unlock its secrets. This tablet appears to be a guide, but the language is complex. It will take some time to fully decipher."

Aria glanced around nervously. "Time is something we might not have. Is there any way to speed up the process?"

Alden frowned. "I understand your urgency, but translating something this ancient and complex can't be rushed. However, there are references here to other texts that might help. If we can find them, it could provide the key to a quicker translation."

The group split up, scouring the library for the texts Alden mentioned. Hours passed as they searched through dusty volumes and fragile scrolls. Finally, Aria found an old book with similar runes.

"Professor, I think this is what you're looking for," she said, handing him the book.

Alden's eyes lit up. "Yes, this is perfect. With this, I can cross-reference the runes on the tablet. Give me a moment."

The minutes ticked by as Alden worked, his brow furrowed in concentration. The library seemed to hold its breath, the usual hum of activity subdued as if in anticipation.

Finally, Alden looked up, a triumphant gleam in his eyes. "I've got it! The tablet speaks of a ritual that must be performed at the Eternal Gate. It requires the light of the artifact to unlock the gate's power, but it also warns of a guardian, a powerful entity that protects the gate from intruders."

Ethan's heart raced. "Do you know where the Eternal Gate is located?"

Alden nodded. "There are coordinates here, hidden in the text. It's in the heart of the Blackstone Mountains, a place few dare to venture."

Liam frowned. "The Blackstone Mountains are known for their dangerous terrain and hostile creatures. It won't be easy getting there."

Ethan stood, determination etched on his face. "We don't have a choice. We need to get to that gate and perform the ritual. Whatever this guardian is, we'll face it together."

Alden handed Ethan a parchment with the coordinates. "Be careful. The legends of the Eternal Gate speak of great power, but also great danger. Many have sought it, but few have returned."

The group thanked Alden and left the library, the weight of their mission pressing heavily on their shoulders. As they made their way through the town, Ethan felt a sense of urgency building within him. They had a clear goal now, but the path to the Eternal Gate would be fraught with peril.

As they left Ashford and headed towards the Blackstone Mountains, the terrain grew increasingly treacherous. The air became colder, and the ground beneath their feet turned rocky and uneven. The artifact's glow brightened, as if sensing their proximity to its final destination.

But as they pressed on, Ethan couldn't shake the feeling that they were being watched. The forest seemed to close in around them, the shadows lengthening and deepening. They were on the right path, but danger lurked at every turn.

And somewhere in the distance, an unseen enemy awaited, ready to strike at the first opportunity.