The cold night air carried an almost tangible tension as the Seven Sages gathered around the ritual fire.
The summit of Mount Meru was bathed in the faint glow of the stars, and a heavy silence loomed, broken only by the occasional whisper of the wind.
Kent stood near the edge of the ritual site, his bow strung and his quiver glowing with divine energy.
His pets were stationed at their designated positions, ready to unleash their fury at the first sign of danger.
First Sage Paras stood before Kent. In his hand, he carried a small, ornate vial filled with a swirling golden liquid. He extended the vial toward Kent.
"This is the Potion of Life Energy. Drink it. It will sustain you through these seven days. You will feel no hunger, no thirst, and no need for sleep. But beware, Kent. The demons will not relent. Always keep your bow ready, your fingers rested on the bowstring. This entire ritual depends on you."
