The next morning, the group awoke to the rich aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the tree house. Emerging from their quarters, they found a simple yet hearty breakfast laid out for them – crusty loaves made from wheat flour accompanied by a salad of crisp vegetables and herbs tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.
As they ate, Guru Vihaan observed them with a contemplative gaze, the lines of his weathered face seeming to soften momentarily in the morning light filtering through the windows. When the last crumbs had been cleared away, he rose to his feet with a slight groan, leaning on his gnarled wooden staff.
"Now that you are rested and nourished, it is time I revealed the truth of why we require your aid," he stated solemnly. "Please, follow me."