Rivan's return stirred a wave of quiet energy through the hidden vault. Though free from his bindings, his gaze remained distant, as if wrestling with a storm within.
"We have little time," Rivan said, his voice steady but heavy. "The darkness that trapped me is spreading. It seeks to consume Jyotivar—and beyond."
Aarav frowned, feeling the weight of those words. "What darkness? What do you know?"
Rivan took a deep breath, the glow of the Rings casting flickering shadows across his face.
"It's the Voidborn — an ancient force born from forgotten realms, feeding on despair and broken promises. They corrupted the Bonekeeper, turning his power against us."
Ishira's eyes widened. "If the Voidborn spreads, it could unravel everything—the Rings, the mantras, even the balance of the realms."
"We must stop it," Aarav said, resolve hardening in his voice. "How do we fight something like that?"
Rivan's expression darkened. "We need to find the lost relic — the Heart of Jyoti. It holds the power to seal the Voidborn's rift. But it's hidden deep within the Shadowlands, a realm twisted by corruption."
Vayara clenched her fists. "Then we have no choice. We face the Shadowlands."
The group exchanged determined glances, knowing the next step would test their strength and spirit like never before.
Aarav looked up at the starlit sky beyond the vault's opening.
"The journey into darkness begins," he whispered. "But together, we will bring the light."