Dark energy surged in like a tide, and everyone was forced to disperse. Ebote, Saraswati, Akash and Brighu stood together forming a defensive circle. Agni, Bala and Vasishtha guarded the other side while Lakshman, Maya and Priya protected the rear. Isabella stood alone and watched the development of the situation with cold eyes.
"What is this?" Saraswati shouted, her divine power forming a protective barrier around her.
Akash frowned, "This is not just energy... I feel some kind of consciousness in it."
At this moment, countless twisted faces appeared in the darkness, wailing shrilly. The faces seemed to come from the depths of hell, full of pain and despair.
"Are these...lost souls?" Brigou exclaimed.
Ebert clenched the weapons in his hands, "No matter what they are, we must protect each other!"
The power of darkness began to attack everyone. Everyone tried their best to resist this evil force. However, over time, their power began to wane.
"Our defense can't hold anymore!" Agni's voice echoed on the ghost battlefield, and his flames tried their best to resist the approaching ghost army. The huge number of ghost creatures were draining his magical energy, and the originally blazing flames became weaker and weaker in the darkness, as if they would go out at any time.
At this moment, a deep voice sounded in everyone's minds: "One of you must sacrifice so that others can pass this test."
This announcement shocked everyone. They looked at each other, not knowing what to do.
"This is ridiculous!" Bala said angrily, "We can't sacrifice our friends!"
Isabella sneered, "This is your weakness. For the sake of the overall situation, sometimes difficult choices must be made."
"Shut up!" Vasista glared at Isabella, "We are not you, we cherish the life of every companion."
However, as the power of darkness increases, the situation becomes more and more critical. The crowd's strength was rapidly draining, and they knew they had to make a decision as soon as possible.
"Let me," said Lakshman suddenly, "let me be the victim."
"No!" Maya exclaimed, tears welling up in her eyes, "There must be another way!"
Priya held Lakshman's hand, "We cannot lose you, Lakshman. We need your wisdom and strength."
While everyone was arguing, Agni suddenly took a step forward. "Let me do it," he said quietly, "I have lived a long time and seen too much suffering. If my sacrifice allows you to move on, then this will be my last and greatest Achievements."
"Agni, no!" cried Bala, trying to stop his old friend.
But Agni had made his decision. He turned back to his companions with a gentle smile on his face. "Remember, the fire never goes out. Even if I am gone, my spirit will be with you."
After saying that, Agni jumped into the dark vortex. A dazzling fire shot into the sky, illuminating the entire space. The dark power began to retreat, and the pained face gradually disappeared.
When the light dissipated, Agni was gone. Everyone was silent, grieving the loss of a great companion.
"Agni..." Bala whispered, tears falling down her cheeks.
Abbott took a deep breath and forced himself to calm down. "We have to move on," he said. "This is the best tribute to Agni."
The others nodded silently. They know that there are more challenges waiting for them ahead. Agni's sacrifice cannot be in vain.
"Let's go," Saraswati said, "for Agni's sake, for our mission."
So, with heavy hearts, everyone continued to embark on an unknown journey. They know that this may not be the last time they lose a companion, but they must be strong and must move on. Because only in this way can their common goal be achieved and the sacrifices of Agni and Emma become meaningful.
When they left this dark space, everyone silently said goodbye to Agni in their hearts. They know that the spirit of the fire god will always be with them, lighting the way ahead.