The journey to the Forbidden Peaks was treacherous. The landscape grew more rugged, and an eerie silence settled over the companions as they approached the heart of darkness. The air itself seemed to vibrate with malevolent energy.
As they ascended the jagged peaks, a shadowy figure emerged from the mist. A cloaked figure, their face concealed in darkness, stepped forward. "Gavin Starfury, the Mage of Rebirth, and his band of misfit heroes. I've been expecting you."
Gavin, wary but undeterred, demanded, "Who are you, and what do you want with Eldoria?"
The cloaked figure chuckled ominously. "I am Azrael, a harbinger of the ancient magic that Eldoria seeks to suppress. You've shattered the curse, but you've only awakened the true power that lies dormant in these peaks."
Seraphina, sensing the dark magic, whispered, "This power is ancient, older than the scrolls. It hungers for chaos."
Azrael, their eyes gleaming with malevolence, continued, "Eldoria's barriers weaken, and soon this realm will be consumed by the very magic that sustains it. Unless, of course, you surrender your newfound powers to me."
Valeria, her hand gripping her sword, snarled, "We don't negotiate with shadows. Prepare yourself, Azrael!"
The air crackled with tension as the companions faced the harbinger. The Forbidden Peaks echoed with the clash of magic and steel as the battle for Eldoria's fate unfolded.