Chapter 205: Naruto the Movie: Legend of the Stone of Gelel
We join Malik sitting in the middle of a sun-dappled forest, leaves rustling in a gentle breeze, and sunlight spilling through the canopy above. His eyes were closed as if enjoying a moment of peace, the world around him quiet and serene. That is, until he felt a light tap on his shoulder. Opening his eyes, he saw Kiyomi "The Tempest" Matsuda, her long silver hair flowing like storm clouds around her, kneeling beside him.
"Am I enough for this mission, my lord?" she asked, her sharp grey eyes fixed on him, betraying a rare hint of vulnerability.
Malik placed his hand over hers, still resting on his shoulder, his expression one of quiet reassurance. "You are all I need, Kiyomi. Your strength is more than enough. And please Kiyomi no need to call me Lord, it makes me feel like an old man."
Kiyomi's resolve hardened as she nodded, standing back with a renewed sense of purpose. Her athletic, toned frame spoke to her rigorous training and relentless commitment, and with her Tempest Blade secured by her side and the Storm Cloak draped over her shoulders, she looked every bit the fearsome warrior she was.
Just as they prepared to move forward, an eerie creaking sound filled the air. Emerging from the shadows of the forest, an entire legion of armored figures appeared, surrounding them. Over fifty towering, empty suits of armor moved in perfect unison. The armor itself was nearly black, an ominous shade of gray that suggested both strength and an unnatural resilience. Each suit bore an intimidating stance, slightly hunched forward as if perpetually prepared to strike, with glowing red eyes staring hollowly from behind their visors.
Some of the armors were also wielding nasty-looking weapons like hammers and maces.
Kiyomi's instinct was to immediately take action, her fingers twitching towards her blade as she prepared to summon a powerful gust. But Malik raised a hand, stopping her just in time.
"Hold on, Kiyomi," he murmured calmly. "Let's see what they want."
Kiyomi noticed the slight ring of excitement she heard from his voice.
A single figure stepped forward from the crowd. Tall and imposing, the young man had neck-length blond hair, green eyes that glinted with intensity, and skin as white as alabaster. He wore medieval armor complete with a gleaming red cape, his entire look almost theatrical. A retractable shield was fastened to his left arm, while a jewel-encrusted Knight Sword hung at his side. He observed Malik with suspicion, his posture stiff as he assessed them.
With a scowl, he leveled the sword at Malik. "Are you the one who told that village over the hills to hide their excavation?"
Malik, now casually nibbling on a snack he had somehow pulled from his pocket, looked entirely unfazed. "The people in that village don't have what you're looking for."
The blond knight's eyes narrowed. "How would you know that? How did you know we were coming?" His voice dropped an octave. "Who are you?"
Malik gave a shrug. "Well, for starters, it's hard not to hear you all coming with all that clunky armor." He took another bite before continuing. "But to answer your last question slash your more important question, my name is Malik."
Without a word, the armored soldiers around them moved forward, tightening their circle. Malik glanced over his shoulder at Kiyomi with a smirk.
"Kiyomi, do me a favor," he said, his voice calm yet commanding. "Show them why they call you 'The Tempest.'"
With a quick nod, Kiyomi raised her Tempest Blade, drawing chakra from within her, sending a growing whirlwind around her. The air grew thick and heavy, and soon, a powerful cyclone roared to life. Her hands moved in swift, practiced motions as the wind obeyed her every command. The storm grew in strength, lifting each suit of armor effortlessly as if they were nothing more than leaves in a gale. One by one, the suits were pulled higher and higher until they vanished above the clouds, flung into the vastness of the sky.
Malik clapped his hands in admiration. "Impressive as always, Kiyomi. How far up did you launch them?"
Kiyomi looked up, a glimmer of satisfaction in her eyes. "They felt weightless, my lord. It was no trouble to throw them that far."
The young knight, seemingly unfazed by the loss of his entire army, lunged at Malik, sword drawn. But Kiyomi was faster. She stepped forward, her Tempest Blade meeting his with a ringing clash that echoed through the trees. They dueled with fierce precision, Kiyomi's speed and agility allowing her to match the knight's brute strength, countering each swing with ease. Finally, she forced him back, sending him stumbling as he struggled to maintain his balance.
Breathing heavily, the knight demanded once more, "Who are you?! And what was that power?!"
Malik, gesturing for Kiyomi to step back, met the knight's glare with a calm, piercing gaze. "I already told you—my name is Malik, and this is Kiyomi." He held the knight's stare, unflinching. "What you just witnessed is chakra. Perhaps your land calls it something different, but if you've traveled far, it makes sense you wouldn't recognize it. The village you were about to attack is innocent, as are the other villages on your list. They don't have the information you need. But I do."
The knight's sword trembled in his grip. Malik's presence was steady, commanding, yet there was an undercurrent of something more—something the knight couldn't quite place.
"If you truly want what you're searching for, then be a good boy," Malik continued, his voice dripping with a calm authority, "and take me to your beloved leader, Haido."
The young knight hesitated, but seeing no other option, he sheathed his sword, gesturing for Malik and Kiyomi to follow. And so, with the promise of meeting the warlord Haido, they embarked on their journey deeper into the unknown.
As they moved through the dense forest, the young knight Temujin led the way, his movements measured and precise. Kiyomi stood close to Malik, her sharp eyes catching every detail. She noticed a faraway look in Malik's eyes, knowing he was analyzing something only he could see.
Malik was observing his latest quest through his interface:
Quest Update: Infiltrate Haido's Group
Objective: Gain the trust of Haido's four knights
Members: Fugai, Kamira, Ranke, Temujin
Reward: Full access to the Vein of Gelel and one level increase
Malik's attention returned to his surroundings as the forest morphed into a rocky canyon. A thick fog settled in, swirling around them and cloaking the area in an eerie silence. He smirked, nudging Kiyomi with a joke, "Is it me, or do all these secretive warlords love a good foggy entrance? Mist and I go way back."
The canyon eventually opened up, and Malik spotted a towering castle. The structure was immense, almost surreal, and Malik was momentarily captivated by the sight. The castle's most impressive feature was its base—giant treads that suggested it could move if needed. It loomed ominously against the sky, shrouded in fog that added to its air of mystery. Armor-clad figures moved in and out of the castle's entrance, their hollow movements both fascinating and unsettling.
As they approached, the front of the castle opened with a metallic groan, revealing a cavernous interior. Clanging machine parts and an array of gears lined the walls, the sounds of machinery reverberating through the air. A metallic door at the entrance lowered into a staircase, inviting them up. Malik took it all in with an impressed nod, noting the lavish marble and golden decor inside, though the place felt empty, devoid of any true life aside from these animated suits of armor.
Temujin led them through polished corridors lined with grand tapestries and elegant statues. The silence was broken only by the soft echo of their footsteps. Kiyomi, ever alert, stayed close to Malik, her hand never straying far from her Tempest Blade as they boarded an ornate elevator, which Temujin wordlessly activated.
In the silence of the elevator ride, Malik tapped away on his phone, perhaps jotting down notes or strategizing for the meeting ahead. After a moment, he looked up, tilting his head at Temujin. "What's your name?" he asked, even though he already knew it.
Temujin remained silent, only answering after a few seconds, "It's Temujin… though it won't matter much for long."
Malik raised an eyebrow but said nothing further, content to let the quiet envelope them again. The elevator finally came to a halt with a soft chime, and the doors slid open, revealing an opulent room. A massive window lined one wall, overlooking the mist-laden canyon. At the opposite end of the room, a large throne sat atop a raised dais, and on that throne was Haido.
Haido was a striking figure, clad in a dark blue bishop's robe adorned with intricate details. His light brown, bushy eyebrows matched his thick sideburns, which framed his face down to a sharp chin. A monocle over his left eye glinted as he observed Malik and Kiyomi with a faint smile. In his right hand, encased in a dark black glove, rested a Stone of Gelel, radiating a faint, mesmerizing glow.
Temujin knelt before the throne, bowing his head respectfully. Haido set down the large, leather-bound tome in his hands—The Book of Gelel—and his gaze settled on his guests.
"Welcome back Temujin by boy, And Welcome to our new guests," Haido began, his voice soft and warm. "I am Haido. And you must be Malik." His gaze flicked over Malik's vibrant attire, pink and gold, a stark contrast to the dark, somber surroundings. He raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by the bold colors. "You certainly stand out."
Temujin stepped forward, preparing to draw his sword, but Haido held up a hand, stopping him. "Now, now, Temujin. There's no need for violence." He looked at Malik and Kiyomi with a kind smile. "Violence has its time and place, but we are here to discuss a brighter future—a world without war, a peaceful utopia."
Haido gestured toward a painting behind his throne depicting a verdant landscape, a scene of harmony and prosperity. "You see, this has been my dream. To create a place where no one is oppressed, where strength doesn't determine one's right to exist. The Vein of Gelel holds the power to make this dream a reality."
Malik tilted his head, feigning interest. "The Vein of Gelel… a powerful source, I hear."
Haido's eyes lit up. "Indeed. Its energies are unparalleled. The Vein can heal wounds, even halt aging. With it, we could achieve true peace."
Kiyomi watched Haido carefully, her stance relaxed yet poised, ready to draw her blade if needed. Haido noticed her attention and turned to her, his smile widening.
"You, Kiyomi, are clearly a warrior of unmatched skill. We could use such strength in our pursuit. Join us in our search for the Vein, and together, we shall shape a world free from strife."
Malik, maintaining a polite facade, inclined his head thoughtfully. "Your offer is intriguing, Haido. I can see the potential in such a vision." He shared a quick glance with Kiyomi, a subtle understanding passing between them. "We'll join you in this journey to find the Vein of Gelel. For peace, after all, is a noble cause."
Haido's eyes sparkled with satisfaction. "Wonderful. Together, we will build a world where war is nothing but a memory."
As Haido continued to discuss his vision, Malik exchanged a glance with Kiyomi. They both knew this mission was about more than peace—it was about gaining Haido's trust and getting closer to the Vein of Gelel. Malik's goal was set: infiltrate, gather information, and, if necessary, disrupt this supposed utopia from within. The stakes were high, but with Kiyomi by his side, Malik was ready to face whatever lay ahead.
As they spoke to one another, Malik took in the opulent throne room around him, with Haido seated regally on his large throne. The imposing presence of Haido was softened only by the large, leather-bound book resting on his lap, it had no title but he knew it was The Book of Gelel. The atmosphere in the room was tense, yet Malik's gaze remained calm and unyielding as he faced the warlord with Kiyomi standing protectively by his side.
Haido, his expression intrigued, leaned forward and spoke in a commanding tone, "So, Malik, my knight Temujin here claims that you possess knowledge about Gelel. You know where to find the power we seek—the elusive Vein of Gelel. Is this true?"
Malik responded smoothly, using Haido's own words but rephrasing them cleverly to imply his knowledge. "Yes, I do. I'm well aware of the Gelel energy, its properties, and even where the hidden source lies. And if you're interested in it, I can help you locate and harness its power."
Haido's eyes sparkled with a glint of interest as he absorbed Malik's words. Without missing a beat, Haido pressed a button on his throne, causing a loud chime to echo through the room. "Fugai, Kamira, Ranke," he called through the intercom, "please join us in the throne room. I have someone here you'll want to meet."
After a few moments, the grand doors to the throne room opened, and three striking women entered one by one, each carrying an air of confidence and beauty that did not go unnoticed by Malik.
The first woman to approach was Fugai, whose piercing violet eyes radiated a fierce, untamed aggression. She had a certain aura of authority in her posture and wore her armor with an intimidating edge. Her chestplate was uniquely designed, allowing her large bosom room to breathe and adding to her imposing figure. Her long light brown hair framed her face, giving her a feral look that Malik found both alluring and a little dangerous.
Fugai wasted no time, stepping forward with a smirk as she looked Malik up and down. "So, you're the one claiming to know about the Gelel. You'd better not be wasting our time," she sneered, her tone laced with a challenging edge.
Malik took a mental note about how fast information passed between Haido and his men, Malik, undeterred, gave her a charming smile and gently took her hand, pressing a light kiss to her knuckles. "With such a captivating knight as yourself, Fugai, I wouldn't dream of wasting anyone's time." His words were laced with smooth confidence, and Fugai found herself momentarily taken aback, a faint blush dusting her cheeks as she quickly withdrew her hand.
Kamira stepped forward next, her long blonde hair flowing over her shoulders, reminiscent of a shimmering golden waterfall. Her piercing red eyes bore into Malik's with a playful, almost flirtatious glint. She wore a turquoise knight's uniform adorned with spikes on her shoulders, and her chestplate, like Fugai's, was designed to show off her ample curves. Kamira's gaze held a sadistic charm, as if she were always on the brink of teasing or tormenting her foes.
Kamira tilted her head, a sly smile gracing her lips as she circled Malik slowly. "You certainly don't look like the usual guests we entertain," she said, her voice dripping with mock sweetness. "Tell me, handsome, do you know how to handle yourself in battle?"
Malik chuckled softly, returning her gaze with equal intensity. "I may not be a fighter and I may not wear armor, but I can assure you, Kamira, I've handled far fiercer battles than you might imagine. But let's not rush into war when we could enjoy more... peaceful engagements." He reached out, taking her hand and kissing it lightly. Kamira's eyebrow arched, clearly amused by his boldness, though she didn't pull away.
Finally, Ranke stepped forward, her blonde frilled hair and light-violet eyes giving her an almost ethereal appearance. She wore purple armor that accentuated her strong build, and her attitude was just as bold as her fellow knights. Ranke's approach was more impatient than the others, her eyes scanning Malik with clear skepticism.
"Flattery won't get you far with me," Ranke stated bluntly, crossing her arms over her ample chest, her expression hardened. "If you're here to help, prove it with actions, not words."
Malik, unphased, gave her a respectful nod. "Actions speak louder than words, I agree," he replied smoothly. "But if words are the first step to winning over such formidable knights, then I'll gladly put them to use." He held out his hand, waiting to see if she would take it. Ranke hesitated, her gaze flickering between his hand and his face before, reluctantly, she placed her hand in his, allowing him to place a chaste kiss upon it.
While Malik enjoyed the introductions with Fugai, Kamira, and Ranke, Kiyomi watched them with a narrowed gaze. Each of the knights seemed to share a mutual disinterest—bordering on dislike—for Kiyomi, and it didn't take long for the tension to build between them. Each time one of the knights glanced away from Malik, they'd throw a subtle glare in Kiyomi's direction, as if challenging her presence. Kiyomi, however, met each of their stares head-on, her own eyes blazing with silent defiance.
Kiyomi leaned closer to Malik, her voice a low murmur inside Malik's mind, ("These women... they're not to be trusted.")
Malik placed a reassuring hand over hers, whispering back mentally, ("I trust you, Kiyomi. Remember, we're here with a purpose. Stay focused.")
Kamira, noticing the closeness between Malik and Kiyomi, smirked. "Is she your... bodyguard?" she teased, her tone dripping with feigned curiosity. "Or perhaps something more?"
Kiyomi's eyes flashed dangerously, but Malik merely laughed it off, keeping his tone light. "Let's just say Kiyomi is invaluable to me in more ways than one."
Haido, who had been silently observing the exchanges, finally spoke up, drawing everyone's attention. "Ladies," he addressed the three knights, "Malik will be joining us in our quest for the Vein of Gelel. I want each of you to get to know him well. He may possess information crucial to our mission. And please, I know that each of you will treat 'Both' of them with the courtesy and respect they deserve."
In only a moment, the 3 Knights bowed and answered, "Yes, Lord Haido."
"Fantastic, please show Malik and Kiyomi to our guest rooms when they are ready," He then turned to Temujin. "Temujin, walk with me. We have much to discuss about your recent mission." Without another word, Haido rose from his throne and exited the room with Temujin in tow, leaving Malik, Kiyomi, and the three knights alone.
With Haido gone, Fugai wasted no time stepping closer to Malik, crossing her arms over her chest as she regarded him with a smirk. "So, Malik," she drawled, her tone filled with intrigue, "what's a man like you doing with someone as uptight as Kiyomi?"
Malik laughed, glancing at Kiyomi with a playful smile. "Kiyomi's my balance in a chaotic world," he replied smoothly. "She keeps me grounded when things get... too exciting." He threw a charming smile back at Fugai, who seemed both intrigued and slightly annoyed by his answer.
Kamira stepped up next, brushing a hand against Malik's arm. "If you ever need a break from that 'grounding,' sweetie, I'd be happy to show you a good time." Her flirtatious tone was unmistakable, and Malik, ever the charmer, grinned.
"I'll keep that in mind," he replied, his hot pink eyes twinkling mischievously. "A man could certainly use a little excitement now and then."
Ranke, however, was more direct. She looked Malik up and down, unimpressed. "All this talk, but can you back it up?" She leaned in close, her face only inches from his. "You don't look like much of a fighter to me."
Malik gave her a confident grin. "Looks can be deceiving, Ranke. But if you're ever up for a sparring match, I'd be more than happy to prove myself."
Kiyomi, growing visibly irritated with the flirtations and challenges thrown Malik's way, subtly placed herself between him and the knights. "He doesn't need to prove anything to you three," she stated, her voice laced with authority.
The three knights only smirked in response, clearly amused by Kiyomi's protectiveness. It was clear that this wasn't the last of the rivalry between Kiyomi and the knights, and Malik was both amused and intrigued by the unfolding dynamics.
He took a few steps back then leaning casually against a marble pillar, observing as the three knights continued to throw scornful looks Kiyomi's way. Fugai, Kamira, and Ranke each took turns with their taunts, whispering remarks meant to test her patience. Kiyomi, ever stoic, kept her jaw clenched and her gaze steady, but it was clear that her patience was wearing thin. Her hand hovered near the hilt of her Tempest Blade, her fingers flexing as if ready to draw it at a moment's notice.
Fugai smirked, her violet eyes glinting with mischief. "You know, Malik, it's hard to understand what someone like you sees in her. She seems… a bit dull, don't you think?"
Kamira joined in, her tone dripping with fake sweetness. "Oh, I agree. Surely a 'charming' man like you could find better company." She cast Kiyomi a sideways glance, her eyes full of challenge.
Before the tension could erupt into a full-blown conflict, Malik stepped forward, hands raised in a calming gesture. "Ladies, ladies," he said smoothly, flashing a disarming smile. "Let's not be hasty. After all, we're all on the same team, aren't we?"
Fugai scoffed, crossing her arms. "And what do you bring to this 'team,' Malik? You said yourself that you're no fighter."
Malik grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "True, I may not be a warrior, but I am an incredible chef." With a quick, theatrical wave of his hand, Malik conjured three cookies, each wrapped in delicate paper and tied with a golden ribbon. "A little token of my appreciation," he said, handing one to each knight.
The three women took the cookies, eyeing them with a mix of curiosity and suspicion. Kamira raised an eyebrow, giving him a playful smirk. "You think a cookie's going to impress us?"
"Why don't you try it and see?" Malik replied, giving her a wink.
Fugai, never one to back down from a challenge, took a bite first. Her eyes widened as the rich, buttery flavor melted on her tongue, followed by a hint of honey and cinnamon. She quickly finished the rest of the cookie, trying—and failing—to hide her enjoyment.
Kamira and Ranke followed suit, each taking a bite of their cookie. Kamira let out a soft, involuntary hum of pleasure, while Ranke closed her eyes briefly, savoring the taste. Malik watched them with a smug grin, clearly pleased with their reactions.
"These are… unexpectedly delicious," Ranke admitted, her voice begrudging.
"I aim to please," Malik said, bowing slightly. "And this is just a taste. I'll make each of you a special meal, tailored just for you. A little something to show my gratitude for allowing Kiyomi and me to stay here."
Kamira's eyes sparkled with interest, her flirtatious nature bubbling to the surface once more. "You really are full of surprises, aren't you, Malik?"
He flashed her a grin. "I like to keep things interesting, Kamira. Life's too short for anything less, wouldn't you agree?"
Kamira smirked, leaning closer to him. "I might just take you up on that offer, sweetie. You're certainly… intriguing."
Fugai, her initial suspicion fading, softened slightly. "If you can help us find the Vein of Gelel, perhaps you're worth keeping around. But don't think this cookie gets you off the hook."
"Oh, I'd never be so presumptuous," Malik replied with a playful chuckle. "But rest assured, with my help, you'll have everything you're searching for. Even if I'm not a warrior, I'm more than capable of pulling my weight."
The three knights exchanged glances, their skepticism wavering. There was something undeniably magnetic about Malik, and even though they were trained fighters used to suspicion and caution, they found themselves warming up to his charm, if only a little.
After the exchange, the knights led Malik and Kiyomi down a long hallway toward the guest quarters. The grand castle halls echoed with their footsteps, the silence punctuated by the hum of machinery hidden within the walls. They stepped into a large, gilded elevator, its interior decorated with intricate patterns and polished mirrors. Kamira pressed a button, and the elevator descended to a lower level.
Throughout the ride, Malik continued his lighthearted banter, exchanging flirtatious glances and subtle compliments with each knight. Kiyomi, meanwhile, stood close to him, her expression unamused but her hand still on her weapon, ready for any sign of treachery.
Kamira leaned against the wall, watching Malik with a coy smile. "So, Malik, if you're not here to fight, what exactly is it that you do?"
"Oh, I'm just here to make life more interesting," Malik replied, his hot pink eyes gleaming. "Who wouldn't want a little excitement in their lives?"
Ranke rolled her eyes, but there was a hint of a smile tugging at her lips. "You talk a big game for someone who's not a fighter."
"Talking is an art in itself, Ranke," Malik said, winking at her. "Sometimes, words can be more powerful than any weapon."
Fugai crossed her arms, looking him up and down. "We'll see if that's true, Malik. If you're here to help us, you'd better keep those promises."
"Oh, I will," Malik assured her, his tone sincere. "I'm a man of my word."
Finally, the elevator dinged, and the doors opened into a lavish hallway lined with doors on either side. The knights led them to a set of ornate double doors, which swung open to reveal a spacious room, elegantly furnished with a large bed, a sitting area, and a balcony that overlooked the misty valley below.
"This will be your room, Malik," Kamira said, gesturing with a flourish. She then pointed to a smaller door off to the side. "And we've prepared a separate room for your… bodyguard."
Kiyomi's eyes narrowed, but before she could respond, Malik stepped in smoothly. "Oh, that won't be necessary," he said with a polite smile. "Kiyomi stays with me. I'm sure you understand."
The three knights exchanged glances, their eyes lingering on Kiyomi with a mix of curiosity and silent judgment. Ranke's gaze flicked over Kiyomi's silver hair, grey eyes, and athletic figure, her lips curling into a smirk. Kamira's eyes traveled to Kiyomi's large chest with a hint of disdain, while Fugai's gaze was steely, clearly irritated by her presence.
"Well then, enjoy your stay," Kamira said, her voice tinged with mock sweetness. She winked at Malik, giving him a playful salute. "Don't hesitate to call if you need… anything."
Malik grinned, blowing each of them a playful kiss. "Thank you, ladies. I'll be sure to let you know if I need any assistance." With that, he ushered Kiyomi inside the room, closing the doors behind them.
Once the door clicked shut, Kiyomi turned to Malik with a deadpan expression. "I don't like any of them," she stated bluntly, crossing her arms. Her usual fierce gaze softened just slightly as she looked at him, though there was still a hint of annoyance in her eyes.
Malik chuckled, clearly amused. "I couldn't tell," he replied, feigning innocence. He plopped down on one of the plush chairs by the window, kicking his feet up as if the tension outside hadn't affected him in the slightest.
Kiyomi sighed, her stern demeanor softening as she watched him. "They don't trust us, Malik. They're all playing nice for now, but don't think for a second that they wouldn't turn on us if Haido ordered them to."
Malik nodded, his expression turning serious. "I know, Kiyomi. But remember, this is all part of the plan. We're here to get close, to gather information. The more they see me as harmless and charming, the less they'll suspect what we're really up to."
Kiyomi hesitated, then moved to sit beside him, her eyes studying his face intently. "Just… be careful. You're too trusting sometimes. Not everyone is as easily charmed as you think."
He reached over, taking her hand gently. "That's why I have you, Kiyomi. You're here to keep me grounded and, if necessary, kick me into shape." He smiled, his tone affectionate. "I trust you to keep me safe."
Kiyomi blushed faintly, though she quickly looked away to hide it. "Just… don't get too comfortable around them," she muttered, her voice soft.
Malik laughed, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. "Don't worry. I have no plans of getting too cozy with anyone other than you." He winked, lightening the mood.
Kiyomi just shook her head and rolled her eyes, "Knowing you Lord Malik, you'll be getting very close to each of them."
As they settled in for the evening, both Malik and Kiyomi knew the challenges that lay ahead. The knights were suspicious, Haido was cunning, and their mission was only just beginning. But Malik's charm, Kiyomi's loyalty, and their shared determination would carry them forward, ready to face whatever trials awaited in the quest for the Stone of Gelel.