On a gray evening in the port city of Alexandria,

  As the sky was adorned with fading orange hues, Fitran stepped slowly into the Adventurers' Guild headquarters in Alexandria. The atmosphere of the meeting room was filled with laughter and the bustling of adventurers discussing their latest exploits, creating a warm yet spirited moment. However, behind the hustle and bustle, Fitran had intentions beyond mere light conversation; he was seeking a renowned ancient artifact expert, George, to discuss an ambitious expedition aimed at acquiring the heart of the Ancient Golem, the legendary guardian of Stones that had slumbered for thousands of years. More than that, he aimed to unveil secrets that could reshape the course of history by bringing forth 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 busy arranging several manuscripts and maps. Although George appeared relaxed in his tattered garment adorned with the guild 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 cluttered with maps and ancient books. He greeted him 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.”

  Aged with an aristocratic appearance, George had neatly styled silver hair and a curved mustache. He wore classic attire, including a long coat with a wide collar, a waistcoat, and a jabot tie. His expression was calm and confident, with one eye closed as if bearing a scar or having lost vision on that side, which added a mysterious aura to this experienced character, evoking respect among those who knew him.

  "This is not like you," George remarked, alluding to something unexpected.

  Fitran smiled as if wanting to reveal a different side of himself.

  Then George raised an eyebrow, looking at Fitran with a mixture of curiosity and unease. “Ah, Fitran. It’s a pleasure to meet you at the last moments of sunlight. Tell me, what is the urgency of this mission? I’ve heard rumors about Stones, but never a concrete plan like the one you imply.”

  With a serious tone that echoed in the room, Fitran replied, “We are embarking on an expedition to Stones, a place rumored to be home to the legendary creature, the Ancient Golem, which, in its long slumber, holds secrets of immense power. Its heart is believed to possess energy capable of changing civilizations and even defying the laws of nature with abilities yet to be studied. I am confident that with your knowledge of artifacts, we can uncover hidden historical clues, giving us the opportunity to delve deeper into lore and knowledge that may have never been revealed before, including the potential impact on our society.”

  George showed suspicion towards Fitran's strange behavior.

  He then opened an ancient manuscript and looked at Fitran. “It's true that Stones is known as a place full of mysteries. However, missions like this have never been easy. Many have tried, and history records that only a handful have ever succeeded in getting close to those secrets. Please explain how you can convince me that this expedition isn't a death trap? What will we do to handle the existing threats?”

  Fitran took a deep breath and spoke in a mix of formal and informal tones, “George, you know that I and my colleagues have faced various obstacles. Although the path ahead is fraught with danger, I believe in your intelligence and expertise; we will find a way to mitigate the risks. We need a structured plan and artifact data that only you can decipher.”

  “Stop talking like that, this isn't you,” George said firmly, his voice breaking the silence that had increasingly enveloped the room.

  The atmosphere in the guild's headquarters grew increasingly tense, shadowed by anxious expressions on the faces of the adventurers present. Everyone could feel the mounting tension, as if the air around them had become denser and heavier.

  The adventurers listening in on the conversation couldn't help but steal glances, aware of how crucial the mission being discussed was. The golden hues of the evening sky outside the window lent an epic quality to the scene, as if nature itself was supporting the brave souls preparing to face unexpected dangers.

  George gazed at the large map spread across the table, his eyes tracing the lines depicting the path to the remote territory. “Alright, Fitran. Your mission is indeed ambitious. If you're aiming to breach the Stones territory, you need to consider every possibility. I have some ancient notes that mention the gates leading to the golem's dungeon are hidden among the ruins of an ancient temple. However, the intricacies of that structure remain unclear,” he said, maintaining a relaxed yet meticulous tone.

  "Not to mention, the Stones are located at the heart of the Iris River."

  “Sending a small group there is too risky, considering the potential dangers lurking about. We cannot overlook the threats that may arise from that location. The Iris River is filled with mana energy, which means many supernatural creatures will emerge,” George added.

  Fitran approached the map and examined it closely. “I’ve heard rumors about the ruins’ location, but no one has managed to reach it safely. I will need more than just book knowledge. I don't need a group of adventurers for this; I've already considered who will accompany me—someone reliable with the necessary skills for this dangerous expedition.”

  George frowned and agreed, setting down his manuscript. “That's true, I have a few small artifacts that supposedly can detect residual energy vibrations. They will be very useful for tracing the ancient remains buried beneath the layers of Stones, as well as protecting you from supernatural creatures. However, that equipment will be useless if we do not understand or decipher the ancient codes etched in the ruins of the temple. I will gather all previous data and research; every step we take must be meticulously planned, supported by a deep understanding of the historical context behind those artifacts.”

  “Especially considering the significant gains I could achieve from this expedition,” George continued with enthusiasm, his eyes sparkling with ambition as he envisioned the treasure they might uncover. His words added vibrancy to their discussion, igniting imaginations with thoughts of artifacts and the extraordinary powers they could yield, where every detail fueled hope and excitement among everyone involved in this mission.

  In the midst of the conversation, the crowd of adventurers passing by could not hide their admiration. Among them, a few who had faced similar threats looked on in awe upon hearing the mention of the “Ancient Golem.” The previously lively atmosphere shifted to a more subdued tone, as if everyone felt the weight of the responsibility of the mission that lay ahead.

  “George,” Fitran continued, his tone suddenly turning serious, creating a tense atmosphere among the speakers, “I need further clarification. What do you think the level of difficulty is for accessing the golem? Should we apply a direct approach, or would it be better to utilize the ancient energies scattered around the location?”

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  George gazed into Fitran's eyes for a moment before responding in a conversational yet thoughtful tone, “To be honest, I would recommend a cautious approach. An expedition like this requires more than just bravery; it demands precision and skill. We should avoid disturbing the situation until we are fully prepared. In my view, understanding the energy patterns enveloping the area will provide us with valuable clues to access it without triggering the ancient defense mechanisms that could be very dangerous.”

  Fitran replied with a knowing smile, “So you're suggesting that we need to find the rhythm of nature and follow its flow? I agree, but we also have to be ready for anything. The power guarded by the golem could be the key to ensuring safety, not just for us but also for the guild and the entire adventuring civilization that relies on the success of this mission.”

  The dialogue between them deepened, shifting from theory to practical planning. George produced several notes marked with golden ink. “I've documented four phases of energy that we need to follow. First, determining the location based on natural vibrations. Second, deciphering the codes inscribed that we must solve. Third, activating the ‘Ancient Finder’ tool, and finally, the procedure to access the core space where the heart of the golem is hidden.”

  Fitran interjected confidently, “Your plan sounds solid. However, what if the defense mechanisms are triggered automatically when someone approaches the golem's heart? We need to establish a layer of protection that can halt those mechanisms, at least until we manage to get close to the heart without disturbing the energy balance, ensuring that every step we take is calculated and prepared for the worst-case scenario.”

  George tucked away his notes and smiled while smoothing his gray hair. “That's a clever question, Fitran. In the ancient texts I’ve studied, there's a hint that the golem's heart is not merely a source of power but also governs the balance between nature and magic, functioning as a guardian of the surrounding ecosystem. If we can read and operate it correctly, we may be able to overcome the defense mechanisms, but remember, we must proceed with caution and deliberate every step with care.”

  The evening breeze from outside rustled several sheets of paper on the table, adding a dramatic touch to the meeting. A soldier, listening with sympathy, scoffed, “Wow, that's not an ordinary mission. Are you sure this isn't a death mission? History records many adventurers who never returned from quests like this.”

  Fitran shot the soldier a sharp glance and replied firmly, “Every mission carries risks, but it is this uncertainty that drives us to seek knowledge and power. If we stop trying out of fear of failure, then the entire guild will lose the essence of adventure.”

  George added, “Moreover, this mission will pave the way for new understandings of the history of artifacts and the balance of nature. I have spent years delving into the mysteries of ancient artifacts, and none of that knowledge has ever warned against the possibility of not conquering obstacles. We only need the right strategy and the courage to face the unknown.”

  "Unfortunately, I don't want to take anyone from this guild with me," said Fitran.

  The discussion continued with a flow of ideas and in-depth analysis concerning the infrastructure of the ruins, the existence of hidden magical traps, and the possible emergency procedures should this mission turn into a disaster. Fitran elaborated on the clear division of roles: some would take on the role of explorers, others as protectors, and of course, George would lead the excavation and analysis of artifacts at the discovered location.

  After nearly an hour of intense discussion, George concluded the conversation with a final note. “Alright, we agree that this expedition will have the following details: First, the initial location will be at the ruins of an ancient temple at the foot of the mountains. Second, the use of ‘Seeker of the Past’ to detect the remaining energy patterns. Third, a cautious approach to entering the core area, where we will take turns observing signs of defensive activation. Fourth, emergency alarms and evacuation routes must always be prepared at every contact point. I will soon arrange a follow-up meeting to gather the entire support team and prepare the technical details.”

  The atmosphere in the adventurers' headquarters, which had been lively, suddenly fell silent as if all listeners were absorbing and understanding the weight of the mission carried by Fitran and George. Faces filled with hope and anxiety watched these two figures as they crafted a future fraught with challenges and risks.

  In an instant, the sunset that had initially painted the sky in orange deepened into darker hues, casting long shadows and doubt among the lives of the adventurers. This was the perfect moment to embark on an expedition that could become a turning point in history.

  George concluded the meeting by delivering the final decision, “Alright, if you have made up your mind and feel ready for this challenge.”

  Fitran smiled faintly, “Thank you, George. I believe that with your expertise and intuition, we will be able to successfully complete this mission. May the ancient golem's heart we seek bring not only strength but also a profound understanding of the forgotten secrets of the past.”

  The dialogue ended with a solid agreement, leaving both in a blend of excitement and tension. They knew that the mission ahead was not just an ordinary adventure, but rather a journey to unveil the veil of history and challenge the natural laws that had long been established in the world.

  Fitran stepped out of the meeting room with a firm stride, while George lingered for a moment in front of the enigmatic map. Outside, the night began to greet them with its chill, yet within their hearts, the flames of adventure and knowledge continued to burn, beckoning both danger and the grandeur of a hidden world.

  The Adventurer's Guild, which had long been a silent witness to thousands of daring tales, was now recording a new chapter. The adventurers, who had previously shared laughter and banter, now gazed with hope and trust. The expedition to the Stones had been set, and the heart of the Ancient Golem, a legend for millennia, now held the key to immortal secrets waiting to be unveiled.

  In the sudden silence that enveloped the guild, George carefully stored all his notes and plans in a neatly arranged wooden chest. He understood that within every line of those notes lay the fate of countless adventurers who might soon follow in their footsteps.

  In a low voice, George asked Fitran, "Is this for the guild or your personal ambition?" He gazed at Fitran with deep skepticism.

  "It seems you’re still keeping something from me," he said with a tone of suspicion.

  Fitran let out a heavy sigh, his breath echoing in the silence surrounding them, his gaze vacant.

  "I don't understand what you mean," Fitran said, attempting to break the tension between them.

  "Do I come across as too formal? Or is something bothering you?" he continued, trying to ease the discomfort that hung in the air.

  "This is just my opinion, but your words feel so foreign, as if you're not really the one speaking," George replied uncertainly.

  "I even forget who I'm talking to or if I truly know you. It feels like my mind is betraying me, obscuring the reality. Maybe there's something missing in our communication," George added, expressing his deep confusion about their current feelings, as if they were trapped in an endless labyrinth.

  Fitran fell silent for a moment, then offered a faint smile that seemed to hold a great deal of meaning.

  "Do I look like that person?" Fitran asked hesitantly, pointing to a photo hanging on the wall. His expression was a mix of confusion and curiosity, reflecting the profound uncertainty he felt.

  George glanced at the photo mounted on his desk, his face revealing doubt. With a tone full of uncertainty, he replied, "I don't even know who the person in that photo is." The atmosphere felt tense, as if every word spoken vibrated in the heavy air.

  "Aren't we friends?" Fitran responded, his voice echoing with a challenging tone, while his expression showed turmoil, as if questioning the loyalty that was suddenly in doubt.

  In an instant, the air around them grew so thick that George felt a tightness in his chest, as though the weight of unspoken emotions clung to every breath he took.

  “Okay, maybe you're overthinking this. Come on, try to relax a bit,” Fitran said gently, attempting to lighten the mood. He wanted to help George regain his comfort in his chair, diverting their attention from the tension looming over their conversation.

  Not long after, Fitran decided to leave George alone. He walked down the stairs slowly, allowing the cool air to flow in, while George remained trapped in an anxious silence. The space around him felt increasingly cramped, as if the outside world was pulling away, and shadows of worry began to blur his thoughts.

  “Is that you, Fitran?” George whispered to the photograph, his voice barely audible yet laden with emotion. An instant later, darkness enveloped him, and he felt a loss of consciousness. It was as if the shadows of a troubled past haunted his mind, bringing forth flashes of unforgettable and painful memories.