The artifact Richie and Sarah had recovered from the mountains was safely secured in the village, thanks to Elder Joran and his trusted guardians. The hourglass, with its golden sands shimmering, was now in protective hands. Richie and Sarah spent a few days resting in the village, gathering their strength for the next leg of their journey.
One morning, as they were preparing to leave, Elder Joran approached them with a grave expression. "I received a message last night," he said. "From an old friend who has been keeping an eye on the order. He has urgent news and requests your presence immediately."
Richie and Sarah exchanged concerned glances. "Where is he?" Sarah asked.
"He's hiding in the ruins of an old monastery, deep in the forest," Elder Joran replied. "He said it's about a hidden agenda within the order, something that could change everything we know."
