Chapter 52: The Journey Begins

After the ritual, the old man, the mage, and Athos left the cave, their hearts beating with new energy. Night had settled in completely, and the starry sky seemed to reflect the new hope that surrounded them. The group knew that the alliance with the Guardians of the Ancient Legends was only the beginning of a journey that would lead them to face immense and unknown challenges.

Athos pulled out the ancient parchment that the leader of the Guardians had given them. He unrolled it and examined the marked locations with great interest. "These places are of great importance," he commented, "but they are also known to be dangerous. We will need to prepare carefully."

The mage looked at the parchment with a worried look. "We can expect that the forces of Azaroth will also be searching for these locations. We will need to move cautiously and quickly."

The old man nodded, feeling the weight of responsibility on his shoulders. "Let us plan our next steps wisely. We should start in one of the less dangerous locations to familiarize ourselves with what we will face. The experience we gain will help us deal with the more severe challenges that lie ahead."

The group headed back to the city, where they found a safe place to discuss the details of their plan. They found a small tavern that seemed off the beaten path for travelers, but still offered a welcoming refuge. It was the ideal place to make plans and rest before venturing out again.

Seated at an inconspicuous table, surrounded by aged wooden walls and soft lighting, they began to review the parchment and discuss strategy. The old man looked at his companions with a determined expression. "We must prepare ourselves for what lies ahead. Each of these locations may contain unknown dangers and traps. We must be vigilant and well prepared."

Athos made a list of the essential items they would need to bring and planned an initial route. "The first location we must visit is the Temple of the Winds, located in the hills east of the city. It is an ancient place, known for its mystical protections and the challenges it tests those who seek its knowledge."

The mage nodded, his expression returning to calm. "The Temple of the Winds can provide us with valuable insights into the ancient magics and forces we will face. We will need proper equipment and perhaps some additional information about the history of the temple."

The old man raised his head, feeling determination grow within him. "I agree. Let us prepare well and gather as much information as possible. This is an opportunity to better understand the artifacts we will find and how to best utilize them."

With the plan in place, the group began to prepare for the journey to the Temple of the Winds. They gathered supplies, checked their equipment, and collected additional maps that could aid them in their quest. Each one was aware that the next few days would be crucial and challenging.

The old man surveyed the city as they prepared to leave. There was a sense of urgency in the air, an awareness that time was running out and that the threat of Azaroth was drawing ever closer. But there was also a renewed sense of hope and purpose.

When dawn finally broke, the group set out for the eastern hills, the Temple of the Winds in mind. Each step brought them closer to their goal, and the journey, though fraught with uncertainty, was also full of promise of new knowledge and discovery.

With the morning winds blowing gently, the old man, the wizard, and Athos pressed forward with determination. They knew that each challenge they faced would better prepare them for the great battle to come, and they were ready to face whatever came with courage and an alliance that was now stronger than ever.