**Chapter 2: The Legend of the Blood Ruby**

The hooded stranger leaned in closer, their eyes sparkling with a hint of excitement as they began to share the legend of the Blood Ruby. Gorthok and Eira listened intently, their faces bathed in the warm glow of the tavern's fire. The Blood Ruby, the stranger whispered, was said to be a gemstone of unparalleled power, forged in the depths of the earth where the very essence of life pulsed through the rocks. It was rumored to grant its possessor immense vitality, strength, and agility, making them nearly invincible in battle. The stranger's voice dropped to a mere whisper, and they glanced around the room once more, as if ensuring they were not being overheard. "Some say the Blood Ruby was created by the ancient gods themselves, imbuing it with their own life force," the stranger continued. "Others claim it was forged in the heart of a volcano, where the fiery depths of the earth infused it with its crimson hue." The stranger's eyes locked onto Gorthok and Eira, their gaze burning with an inner intensity. "But one thing is certain: the Blood Ruby is said to be hidden in a location known only to a select few, and many have lost their lives searching for it." Gorthok's ears perked up, and he leaned in closer, his voice barely above a whisper. "What makes you think we're the right ones to find it?" Eira's eyes sparkled with curiosity, and he nodded in agreement, his slender fingers drumming a rhythmic pattern on the tabletop. The stranger smiled, producing a worn leather map from their cloak. "I've been watching you, Gorthok and Eira. I know of your skills, your strengths, and your weaknesses. I believe you have what it takes to succeed where others have failed." The stranger unfolded the map, revealing a cryptic illustration of mountains, forests, and rivers. "This is the only clue I can give you. The journey will be treacherous, and you'll need all your wits and strength to succeed." Eira's eyes widened as he studied the map, his brow furrowed in concentration. Gorthok, on the other hand, seemed more interested in the stranger's words, his eyes locked onto theirs with a fierce intensity. "What can you tell us about the Blood Ruby's history?" Gorthok asked, his deep voice rumbling. The stranger nodded, their eyes clouding over with a mixture of sadness and nostalgia. "The Blood Ruby has been lost for centuries, hidden away by those who feared its power. Some say it was used by a great king to unite warring nations, while others claim it was used to curse an enemy. But one thing is certain: the Blood Ruby's power is said to be too great for any one person to wield." As the stranger finished speaking, the tavern's patrons began to disperse, drawn away by the night's festivities. Gorthok and Eira, however, remained seated, their minds racing with the possibilities. They exchanged a look, and without a word, they knew they had made up their minds. The quest for the Blood Ruby had begun, and nothing would ever be the same again. The stranger nodded, as if reading their thoughts. "Then it's settled. You have the map, and you have the legend. May the road rise up to meet you, and may the wind be at your back." With those words, the stranger vanished into the night, leaving Gorthok and Eira to ponder their next move. The fire crackled in the hearth, casting flickering shadows on the walls as the two friends sat in silence, their eyes fixed on the map. The legend of the Blood Ruby had been shared, and their journey had begun. Now, it was up to them to uncover the secrets of the gemstone and claim its power for themselves.