Chapter 10: Preparation
The next morning, Kaden and Lira met in the archive room to draw up a plan. Books and scrolls were spread out on the table, and an ancient map of the desert was unfurled in front of them.
"According to legend, the Eye of Truth is hidden in the ruins of a city called Nekhbet," explained Lira, tracing a path on the map. "It's a dangerous place, filled with traps and monsters."
Kaden studied the map, trying to memorize every detail." How long does it take to get there?"
Lira thinks for a moment." At least a week of travel, maybe more if you run into problems. And we have to prepare. You can't go without provisions and weapons."
Kaden nodded, feeling a new determination in him." So, we start there. We have to gather everything we need."
Lira smiled slightly." We should also talk to Kaela about it. She could help us."
Kaden hesitated." Do you think she'll accept?"
Lira shook her head." I don't know. But you can't go without her approval."
Kaden nodded, feeling a new determination in him. He didn't know what to expect, but he knew he couldn't back down.
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### **Meeting with Kaela**
Kaela received them in her office, listening carefully to their plan. His face was impassive, but his eyes betrayed a subtle anxiety.
"The Eye of Truth," she said at last. "It's a powerful artifact, but also very dangerous. Are you sure you want to do that?"
Kaden nodded, feeling a new determination in him." We have no choice. If this artifact can help us understand the Towers, we have to find it."
Kaela nodded, her face imbued with concentration." Okay. But you have to prepare. I'll give you everything you need, but you have to be careful."
Kaden and Lira exchanged glances, then nodded.
"Thank you, Kaela," said Lira.
Kaela smiled slightly." Good luck."
The following days were devoted to preparation. Kaden and Lira collected supplies, weapons, and artifacts that could help them in their quest. Kaela provides them with detailed maps and information on the dangers of the desert.
The evening before they left, Kaden went to the archives room for a final check. He found Lira sitting at a table, surrounded by books and scrolls.
"Are you ready?" he asked as he sat down in front of her.
Lira nodded, but her face was full of concern." I'm worried, Kaden. This trip is dangerous, and we don't know what we're going to find."
Kaden smiled slightly." We have already faced dangers. We can do it."
Lira smiled in turn, nodding her head." You're right. We can do it."
Kaden felt a new determination in him. He didn't know what to expect, but he knew he couldn't back down.
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