**Chapter 28: The Call to Arms**
The days following the revelation of the prophecy were filled with a flurry of activity. The Council of Divines, once a place of serene deliberation, now buzzed with the urgency of preparation. Every god and goddess was mobilized, their powers and skills harnessed for the impending battle against the ancient threat.
Theron and Alaric were at the heart of the preparations, coordinating efforts and sharing the knowledge they had gained from the ancient scrolls. The bond between mentor and protégé had only strengthened, their shared purpose uniting them in ways they had never imagined.
In the grand hall, the High King addressed the gathered assembly, his voice ringing with authority and resolve. "Our world stands on the brink of darkness. But we are not without hope. Each of us has a role to play in this fight, and together, we will rise to meet this challenge."
Theron stepped forward, his eyes sweeping across the faces of the gods and goddesses before him. "We must harness the full extent of our powers and work in unison. The ancient threat we face is unlike any we have encountered before, but we have the strength and the wisdom to overcome it."
A murmur of agreement rippled through the assembly, the gods and goddesses nodding in solidarity. Theron felt a surge of determination as he continued, his voice filled with conviction. "I propose we form specialized groups, each tasked with a critical aspect of our defense. We need those who can fortify our barriers, those who can gather intelligence, and those who can lead the charge in battle."
The High King nodded in approval. "An excellent strategy, Theron. We shall divide our forces accordingly."
Over the next few days, the divine realm transformed into a hive of coordinated activity. Theron and Alaric oversaw the formation of the specialized groups, each led by a god or goddess with expertise in their designated area. Theron himself took charge of the battle group, comprised of the most formidable warriors among the gods.
As the groups trained and prepared, Theron found moments of solace and reflection in the company of Alaric. One evening, as they stood on a cliff overlooking the celestial city, Alaric spoke softly, his voice tinged with both pride and concern.
"You've grown so much, Theron. From the humble boy I met in the mortal realm to the god you are now. But remember, even gods have limits. Do not shoulder this burden alone."
Theron nodded, his gaze fixed on the horizon where the first signs of the gathering storm could be seen. "I know, Alaric. I draw strength from all of you, and from the bond we share. Together, we will face this darkness."
As the days turned into weeks, the tension in the air grew palpable. The first skirmishes against the encroaching forces of darkness tested their resolve and unity. Theron led his warriors with courage and strategic brilliance, while Alaric provided wisdom and guidance that proved invaluable.
One night, as Theron and Alaric reviewed their plans, a sudden tremor shook the ground beneath them. The sky darkened, and a chilling wind swept through the realm. The ancient threat had arrived.
Theron stood, his eyes burning with determination. "This is it, Alaric. The moment we've been preparing for."
Alaric placed a reassuring hand on Theron's shoulder. "We are ready, Theron. Remember, we stand united. And together, we will prevail."
With a nod, Theron stepped out into the night, his heart filled with resolve. The call to arms had been sounded, and the gods of the divine realm stood ready to face the storm. As they marched towards the impending battle, Theron felt the weight of destiny upon his shoulders, but he knew he was not alone. With his mentor by his side and the strength of the gods behind him, he was ready to fulfill his role in the prophecy and protect the world from the encroaching darkness.