**Chapter 4: Setting Out**

As Gorthok and Eira emerged from the town's gates, the warm sunlight cast long shadows behind them, symbolizing the end of an era and the beginning of a new journey. The rolling hills and dense forests that stretched before them seemed to whisper secrets, drawing them in with an otherworldly allure. With their gear and supplies in hand, the two friends set out on their perilous quest to find the elusive Blood Ruby. The air was alive with the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers and the earthy smell of freshly turned soil. Gorthok, with his massive battle-axe slung over his shoulder, led the way, his broad strides devouring the distance. Eira, with his shortbow and quiver of arrows, followed closely behind, his eyes scanning the terrain for any sign of danger. The sound of birdsong filled the air, and the gentle rustle of leaves provided a soothing background melody. As they traversed through the countryside, the landscape shifted and changed, revealing hidden streams and secret glades. The stranger's cryptic map, etched on a piece of parchment, guided them through the winding paths and hidden trails. Gorthok and Eira studied the map frequently, ensuring they stayed on course and avoided the many dangers that lurked in the unknown. The hours passed slowly, with the sun beating down on their heads, but the two friends pressed on, driven by their determination to find the Blood Ruby. The silence between them was comfortable, punctuated only by the sound of their footsteps and the occasional bird call. Gorthok, ever the warrior, remained vigilant, his eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of threat. Eira, meanwhile, walked with a sense of wonder, drinking in the beauty of the natural world. As the day wore on, the terrain grew more rugged, and the trees grew taller, casting long shadows across the ground. Gorthok and Eira found themselves at the edge of a dense forest, its canopy a vibrant green, with leaves rustling softly in the breeze. The air grew cooler, and the sound of insects provided a soothing background hum. "Shall we make camp here?" Eira suggested, his eyes scanning the forest's edge. "It's getting late, and we don't want to risk traveling in the dark." Gorthok nodded, his face set in a determined expression. "Aye, let's make camp. We can rest and prepare for the dangers that lie ahead." With a practiced ease, the two friends set about gathering firewood and starting a fire. As the flames crackled to life, they sat down to eat a simple meal of dried meat and bread, washing it down with a flask of water. The warmth of the fire and the comfort of their makeshift camp seemed to seep into their bones, easing the tension of the journey. As night began to fall, Gorthok and Eira settled in for a well-deserved rest, their eyes fixed on the stars twinkling above. The darkness seemed to press in around them, but they felt a sense of safety, knowing they had each other's backs. The sound of crickets and the distant hooting of an owl provided a lullaby, and soon they drifted off to sleep, their dreams filled with visions of the Blood Ruby and the adventures that lay ahead. As they slept, the forest came alive, the trees creaking and swaying in the gentle breeze. The night air was filled with the scent of blooming flowers and the sound of nocturnal creatures. Gorthok and Eira slept soundly, their bodies rejuvenating for the challenges that lay ahead. The night passed, and the first light of dawn crept over the horizon. Gorthok and Eira stirred, their bodies stiff from the night's rest. They stretched, yawned, and began to prepare for another day on the journey. The fire was still smoldering, and they quickly rekindled it, brewing a hot breakfast to start their day. With their bellies full and their spirits high, they set off once more, ready to face whatever dangers lay ahead. The Blood Ruby, a gemstone of unparalleled power, beckoned to them, and they were determined to find it.