The hours that followed were torture.
The group took turns watching the crystal, waiting for any sign of change or the return of the five rebels.
Finally, after what seemed an eternity, footsteps were heard approaching.
Elio appeared, his expression changing from curiosity to concern as he saw the tense faces of his team.
"What's this crystal? Why the long faces? What happened?" he asked worriedly.
Zara stepped forward, taking responsibility for informing him. "Elio, we have a problem," she began, her voice trembling. "Five of the soldiers... the ones Taron was watching..."
Elio listened in silence as Zara and the others recounted the events.
The discovery, the initial discussion, the moment of distraction, the sudden action of the five soldiers, and the crystal's message that prevented them from following.
With each word, Elio's face darkened more.