**Chapter 31: A Call for Allies**
The sun rose over the divine realm, casting a golden glow that belied the turmoil beneath its surface. The preparations were in full swing, and Theron, alongside Alaric, stood at the helm of this massive effort. The urgency of their mission was clear: they needed allies, and they needed them quickly.
"We must reach out to the other realms," Alaric advised, his eyes scanning the horizon. "If Valthor's threat is as great as we believe, they will understand the necessity of unity."
Theron agreed, nodding solemnly. "We will send envoys to the realms of fire, water, earth, and air. Each holds unique strengths that will be crucial in the battles to come."
The Council of Divines convened once more, each member assigned a realm to contact. Theron chose to visit the Realm of Fire, known for its formidable warriors and fierce loyalty. Alaric would journey to the Realm of Water, where wisdom and strategy reigned supreme.
As Theron prepared for his journey, he felt a sense of anticipation mixed with apprehension. The Realm of Fire was ruled by Ignis, a god known for his fiery temper and unyielding pride. Convincing him to join their cause would be no small feat.
With Alaric by his side, Theron stepped through the portal to the Realm of Fire. The heat hit them immediately, the air thick with the scent of brimstone and ash. Towering volcanoes loomed in the distance, their molten lava glowing ominously.
A group of fire warriors approached, their armor shimmering with an intense heat. "State your business," their leader demanded, his eyes narrowing as he recognized the divine insignia on Theron's armor.
"We seek an audience with Ignis," Theron replied, his voice steady. "We come with a message of great urgency."
After a tense moment, the leader nodded and led them through the fiery landscape to the grand citadel of Ignis. The citadel's entrance was guarded by massive fire golems, their eyes glowing with an inner flame.
In the grand hall, Ignis sat upon a throne of molten rock, his presence commanding and fierce. "Speak quickly," he intoned, his voice like the rumble of an impending eruption. "Why have you come to my realm?"
Theron stepped forward, meeting Ignis's gaze with unwavering resolve. "An ancient threat, known as Valthor, is rising. His followers seek to bring him back and plunge all realms into darkness. We need your strength and your warriors to stand against this menace."
Ignis's eyes flickered with interest, but his expression remained stern. "And why should the Realm of Fire concern itself with this threat? We have faced many challenges and emerged victorious on our own."
"Because this threat is unlike any other," Theron replied, his voice firm. "Valthor's return would mean the end of all realms, including your own. Only by uniting our forces can we hope to prevent this catastrophe."
Ignis leaned back, his eyes narrowing as he considered Theron's words. The hall was silent, the tension palpable. Finally, Ignis spoke. "You are bold to come here and ask for our aid. But you speak the truth. If Valthor is indeed returning, we cannot ignore this threat."
Theron felt a surge of relief as Ignis continued. "We will join you, but know this: the Realm of Fire does not take orders. We are your allies, not your servants."
"Understood," Theron replied, bowing respectfully. "We will fight alongside you as equals."
With Ignis's agreement secured, Theron and Alaric returned to the divine realm to find that envoys from the other realms were also arriving. The Realm of Water, led by the wise and serene Aqua; the Realm of Earth, with its steadfast and sturdy Gaia; and the Realm of Air, guided by the swift and agile Zephyr—all had answered the call for unity.
In the grand hall of the Council of Divines, representatives from each realm gathered, their presence a testament to the gravity of the situation. The High King addressed them, his voice filled with a blend of gratitude and determination.
"Thank you for answering our call," he began. "The threat we face is unprecedented, but together, we are stronger. Together, we can prevent Valthor's return and protect our realms from the encroaching darkness."
The representatives nodded in agreement, their resolve clear. Theron felt a sense of pride and hope as he looked around the hall, seeing the unity that had been forged in the face of impending doom.
As they began to strategize and plan their next moves, Theron felt a hand on his shoulder. Turning, he saw Alaric, his eyes shining with approval. "You've done well, Theron. This alliance is a testament to your leadership and vision."
Theron smiled, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Thank you, Alaric. But this is just the beginning. The real battle lies ahead."
With their allies assembled and their plans in motion, Theron and his companions prepared to face the gathering storm. The path would be arduous, and the challenges immense, but together, they would stand against the darkness and protect the balance of all realms.