**Chapter 3: Preparations for the Journey**

The morning sun cast a warm glow over the bustling streets of Willowdale, illuminating the town's residents as they went about their daily business. Gorthok and Eira, still fueled by the excitement of their quest, set out to gather supplies and gear for their perilous journey. Their first stop was the local blacksmith, Grimbold Ironfist, a stout dwarf with a bushy beard and a reputation for crafting some of the finest steel in the land. As they entered Grimbold's forge, the sound of hammering on hot metal filled the air, accompanied by the sweet scent of freshly forged steel. Gorthok, being the Orc that he was, had a special request – a sword that could withstand the rigors of battle and the harsh environments they would soon face. Grimbold, familiar with Gorthok's impressive strength, nodded enthusiastically and set to work. "Ah, yes! I've got just the thing for ye, me boyo!" Grimbold exclaimed, his voice booming through the forge. "A sword that'll make ye nearly unstoppable on the battlefield!" With a flourish, Grimbold presented Gorthok with a massive battle-axe, its blade etched with intricate runes that seemed to shimmer in the light. Gorthok's eyes lit up as he grasped the handle, feeling the weight and balance of the axe. "This is it," he growled, his deep voice filled with satisfaction. "This is the one." Eira, meanwhile, opted for a more practical approach, purchasing a few daggers and a shortbow, along with a quiver full of arrows. Their next stop was the apothecary, a small shop run by a wise and aged woman named Elara. Elara was known for her expertise in herbalism and potion-making, and Gorthok and Eira hoped to acquire some of her famous remedies to aid them on their journey. As they entered the apothecary, the scent of dried herbs and medicinal potions enveloped them, immediately putting them at ease. Elara, a kind-eyed woman with a warm smile, greeted them and asked about their needs. "Ah, you're off on an adventure, I see," Elara said, her eyes twinkling with knowledge. "In that case, I'll prepare a special blend of herbs and potions to aid you on your quest." With a few swift motions, Elara gathered various items from her shelves, including a vial of healing potion, a packet of dried herbs, and a small pouch containing a mysterious powder. "What's this?" Gorthok asked, eyeing the pouch suspiciously. "Ah, that's a special blend of powdered herbs and minerals," Elara explained. "It will protect you from certain... unpleasantness. Just be sure to use it sparingly, and only when necessary." Eira nodded, tucking the pouch into his belt. With their gear and supplies in hand, Gorthok and Eira felt a sense of excitement and trepidation. They were one step closer to finding the Blood Ruby, but they knew that the journey ahead would be fraught with danger. As they left Willowdale, the townspeople gathered to bid them farewell. Gorthok and Eira smiled, waving goodbye to their friends and acquaintances. The sound of cheering and well-wishes filled the air, and for a moment, the two friends felt invincible. But as they disappeared into the distance, the reality of their quest began to sink in. They were about to embark on a journey that would test their strength, their courage, and their friendship. The Blood Ruby, a gemstone of unparalleled power, lay hidden, waiting for them to find it. And they were ready.