Malcolm's eyes widened as he reached for the book still clutched in Ava's clothing.
"Don't tell me... You've had this book the whole time?"
Eli's jaw dropped in surprise. "Ava, you sneaky little thief! I can't believe you swiped it again!"
Ava looked defensive, holding the book close. "Hey, I didn't mean to! I was still holding it when the soldiers showed up, and we were in a rush. I totally forgot it was still with me!"
Malcolm chuckled, shaking his head. "Well, I suppose we can't return it now. You've got a knack for this, Ava."
Eli playfully rolled his eyes. "Yeah, she's like a book magnet. 'Accidentally' stealing ancient artifacts since... Well, today!"
Ava playfully hit Eli's arm. "Shut up! It was an honest mistake."
Rachel smiled amused by the banter. "Well, at lease we have the book now, let's focus on understanding its significance.
As they sat down to examine the book, Malcolm noticed a strange symbols etched into the cover. "Guys, look at this. I think these markings are connected with the keystone we have been looking for."
Ava's eyes sparkled with curiosity. "Let me see!"
As they sat down to examine the book, Malcolm noticed a strange map etched into the pages. "Guys, look at this, it seems to be a map, but i've never seen anything like it."
Ava's eyes widened as she studied the intricate markings. "I think it's a treasure map!"
Eli's excitement grew. "Could it lead to something important?"
Rachel's expression turned thoughtful. "maybe it's even connected to the organization your great-parents were part of."
Malcolm's eyes scanned the pages. "There's a guide her, but it's written in an ancient language. We'll need to figure how to decipher it."
Ava's determination shone through. "We can do it! We just need to work together."
As they pored over the book, Eli suddenly looked up with a puzzled expression. "Wait, if this a treasure map, does that mean we're going to be a treasure hunter now?"
Ava rolled her eyes. "Oh great, because that's exactly what we need. More danger and excitement in our lives."
Malcolm chuckled. "Well, at least we'll be together as a family. We can call ourselves... 'The Dysfunctional Treasure Hunters'!"
Rachel playfully hit Malcolm's arm. "You're not helping."
Eli grinned mischievously. "I've got a better one: 'The clueless Adventurers'!"
Ava groaned. "You're both ridiculous."