---
The night was calm, but Chirag knew peace was temporary. The gods' hunters had been a warning—a sign that their enemies were closer than ever. Still, with Liora joining them, hope had returned.
As dawn broke, the group gathered to plan their next move. Liora spread out a map on a flat stone, her finger tracing a path through shadowed lands known as the Vale of Whispers.
"This is where the last Original we seek is hiding," she said quietly. "A man named Kaelen. He's powerful but cautious."
Siya frowned. "Why is he hiding?"
"Because," Liora said, "he fears the gods' reach. He's seen what happens to those who oppose them."
Chirag clenched his fists. "We can't wait for fear to hold us back. We have to find him and convince him to join."
Kael nodded. "The Vale is dangerous. It's filled with illusions and traps."
"But we have no choice," Chirag said. "The gods grow stronger. We must act."
---
The journey through the Vale of Whispers was like walking through a dream. The trees seemed alive, their branches twisting like fingers. Whispers echoed around them, voices of doubt and fear that tried to break their spirits.
Siya held Chirag's hand tightly. "Ignore the whispers. They want to divide us."
Liora closed her eyes, focusing her energy to shield the group. "Stay close. Together, we are stronger."
Hours passed as the group moved cautiously. Suddenly, the path split into many, each one leading into darker shadows.
Kael looked around. "Which way?"
A deep voice answered from the darkness. "The path is yours to choose... but choose wisely."
From the shadows stepped Kaelen, a tall man with silver hair and eyes that seemed to glow in the dark. His presence was both calm and intimidating.
"I have been expecting you," Kaelen said. "But why should I join your cause?"
Chirag stepped forward. "Because the gods threaten everything we love. Because together, we are stronger than fear."
Kaelen studied them silently, then nodded slowly. "Very well. I will join you. But know this—the path ahead is darker than you think."
---
With Kaelen now part of their group, the journey out of the Vale was easier. His power cleared illusions and guided their way.
As they reached the edge of the forest, Chirag felt a renewed strength. "We have three Originals now. Our chance of victory grows."
Siya smiled. "And with every step, we grow closer to the final battle."
Liora looked toward the horizon. "The gods will come. But so will we."
---
That night, under the stars, Chirag looked at his friends and allies gathered around the fire. The road ahead was dangerous, filled with unknown trials. But together, they carried the hope of a new future.
"We fight not just for ourselves," Chirag said softly. "But for everyone who believes in a better world."
And as the Eternal Flame burned within him, he knew they were ready.
---