---
The morning sun rose over the horizon, casting golden light across the land. Chirag and his companions packed up their camp quickly. The Valley of Echoes was behind them now, and ahead lay the unknown.
Their next goal was to find another Original—a powerful being who could tip the balance in their fight against the gods and the darkness. But this time, the search would be harder. The Originals had grown cautious, hiding their true selves.
"We have to be careful," Kael warned as they walked through a dense forest. "If the gods learn we're seeking Originals, they'll try to stop us."
Siya nodded. "The Originals are scattered. Some don't want to join us. Others fear the consequences."
Chirag tightened his cloak against the cool breeze. "We must find them before it's too late. Every ally counts."
Hours passed as they moved through the trees. The silence was broken only by the sound of their footsteps and distant bird calls.
Suddenly, Mirakha stopped, raising a hand. "Something's near."
From the shadows, a figure stepped forward—a young woman with silver hair and eyes like deep blue pools. Her presence was calm yet powerful.
"I have been watching you," she said softly. "I am Liora, an Original."
Chirag's heart raced. "We've been searching for you. We need your help."
Liora studied them carefully. "The gods have made many mistakes, and the balance of power is fragile. I've hidden to protect myself and the world."
Siya stepped forward. "The gods are coming back with force. We need to unite to stop them."
Liora's eyes flickered with concern. "I will consider your request. But know this—joining you means risking everything."
Chirag nodded. "We understand. But we cannot stand alone."
---
That evening, around the campfire, Liora shared her story. She had once been close to the gods but had grown disillusioned by their cruelty and selfishness. She had fled to the forests to live in peace, away from their wars.
"But peace is fragile," she said quietly. "The darkness grows, and the gods' hunger for power will destroy all if left unchecked."
Chirag listened intently. "Together, we can stop that."
Liora smiled faintly. "You carry a strong flame within you. Perhaps hope is not lost."
As the fire crackled, the group felt a new sense of purpose. With Liora's potential support, their chances against the gods grew stronger.
---
The next day, as they prepared to leave, a sudden noise startled them. From the trees emerged a group of cloaked figures—the gods' hunters.
"Hand over the Originals," one commanded. "Your rebellion ends here."
Chirag and the others immediately took their battle stances. Liora's eyes glowed with power as she prepared to fight.
The clash was fierce. Kael's spear flashed, Mirakha's spells flew, and Siya's strength shook the ground. Liora summoned waves of energy, pushing the hunters back.
Despite their skill, the hunters were relentless. Just when it seemed the group might be overwhelmed, a roar echoed through the forest.
From above, dragons swooped down, led by the great red dragon they had befriended. They joined the battle, their flames scattering the hunters.
With the hunters defeated, Chirag breathed a sigh of relief. "We're not alone."
Liora looked at him, hope shining in her eyes. "Then let us move forward—together."
---
As night fell, Chirag stood watch, the Eternal Flame glowing in his chest. The road ahead was dangerous, but with new allies, the future seemed a little brighter.
"Tomorrow, we begin the next step," he whispered to the stars. "And this time, we will not falter."
---