The day of departure dawned bright and early. Subham, Saheli, and Ankan were bustling around the mansion, ensuring they had everything they needed for the journey to Africa. Master Vidur watched them from a distance, his face a mix of pride and concern. Sam stood beside him, his guitar slung over his shoulder.
"Remember," Vidur said, stepping forward, "this journey will test you in ways you cannot imagine. Stay together, trust each other, and rely on your training."
Subham nodded. "We'll be careful, Master."
Saheli adjusted her backpack. "And we'll bring back that Ethereal Flame, no matter what."
Ankan grinned. "Yeah, and maybe even some souvenirs."
Vidur chuckled softly. "Just remember, the Ethereal Flame is the priority. Everything else is secondary."
Sam stepped forward, handing Subham a small charm. "For luck," he said with a wink. "And remember to send postcards."
Subham laughed, pocketing the charm. "Thanks, Sam. We'll make sure to write."
As they walked towards the car, Saheli turned back to Vidur. "Master, are you sure we're ready for this?"
Vidur's gaze was steady. "You are more ready than you realize. Trust in yourselves and each other."
The drive to the airport was filled with a mix of excitement and nervous energy. Saheli hummed a tune while Ankan recounted funny memories from their school days, trying to keep the mood light.
"You remember that time you fell into the pond during the biology trip?" Ankan teased Subham.
Subham rolled his eyes. "I was trying to catch a frog for the project. Who knew it would end up dragging me in?"
Saheli giggled. "You were soaked and covered in mud. The teacher almost had a heart attack."
As they arrived at the airport, the reality of their journey started to set in. They checked in their luggage and went through security, each step bringing them closer to the unknown.
"First time flying?" Ankan asked Saheli as they waited at the gate.
She shook her head. "No, but it's the first time going on a mission like this. It feels... different."
Subham put a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We've got this. Together."
The flight itself was long but uneventful. Subham spent most of it reading up on the Ethereal Flame and the legends surrounding it. Saheli napped intermittently, while Ankan watched movies, occasionally nudging Subham to share some popcorn.
When they finally landed in Africa, the heat and vibrant energy of the place hit them immediately. They made their way through the bustling airport, each of them carrying a sense of purpose.
Outside, a jeep waited for them, driven by a local guide Vidur had arranged. The man introduced himself as Mosi, and his warm smile put them at ease.
"Welcome to Africa," Mosi greeted them. "Your journey to find the Ethereal Flame starts here."
As they drove through the diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to sprawling savannas, the trio couldn't help but feel a mix of awe and trepidation.
"This place is incredible," Saheli said, her eyes wide as she took in the scenery.
Ankan nodded. "Yeah, and it's just the beginning."
Subham, sitting in the front seat, glanced back at his friends. "Remember, we stick to the plan. We'll find the sanctuary, retrieve the Ethereal Flame, and get back safely."
Mosi looked over at Subham. "The sanctuary is deep within the wilderness. It's a sacred place, guarded by many dangers. You must be prepared."
Subham nodded. "We are. We've trained for this."
As they reached their first stop, a small village where they would gather supplies and rest for the night, Mosi warned them. "From here, the journey becomes more perilous. The wilderness is unforgiving."
That night, as they settled into their simple lodgings, the trio gathered around a small fire, their minds racing with the adventure ahead.
"Do you think we'll really find it?" Saheli asked, her voice a mix of hope and doubt.
Subham smiled confidently. "We will. We have to."
Ankan raised an imaginary glass. "To the Ethereal Flame and to us – the most unlikely team ever assembled."
They all laughed, feeling a bit of the tension ease.
As the fire crackled and the African night surrounded them, the trio knew they were on the brink of something monumental. The path ahead was uncertain and filled with danger, but together, they felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.