The ground beneath them continued to tremble, the ominous rumble growing louder. From the shadows emerged a figure, tall and imposing, with an aura of overwhelming power. Unlike the previous monsters, this one had a human form, its eyes glowing with malevolent intent.
"It's him," Lucas whispered, his voice tinged with dread. "Echohade."
Echohade stood before them, a sinister smile playing on his lips. "So, you are the ones who have been meddling in my affairs. I must admit, you've done well to defeat my minions. But now, you face a true god of chaos."
Without warning, Echohade lunged forward with superhuman speed. In an instant, he was upon Jason, delivering a powerful blow that sent him crashing into a building. Before anyone could react, Echohade teleported behind Marcus, striking him with telekinetic force that lifted him off his feet and slammed him into the ground.
Sophia tried to outthink him, her mind racing with strategies, but Echohade's telepathy anticipated her every move. He raised a hand, and with a flick of his wrist, sent her flying through the air, her body colliding painfully with the rubble.
Lucas summoned his shadow powers, but Echohade was ready. He teleported directly in front of Lucas, grabbing him by the throat and lifting him effortlessly. "You are nothing compared to me," Echohade sneered, his eyes glowing with dark energy.
Just as it seemed all hope was lost, a blinding light enveloped the heroes. Echohade recoiled, momentarily blinded by the brilliance. The team felt themselves being lifted, their surroundings shifting and changing.
When the light faded, they found themselves in the divine space—a realm of celestial beauty and serenity. Before them stood their respective gods, their forms radiating with divine power.
Athena, Hermes, Ares, and Hades all stood together, their expressions serious yet filled with hope.
"Welcome, my champions," Athena said, her voice echoing through the divine space. "You have fought valiantly, but now, you face a threat that surpasses any you have encountered."
Hermes stepped forward, his eyes on Jason. "You have shown incredible speed and agility. I will grant you the ability to manipulate time itself, allowing you to outpace any foe."
Ares turned to Marcus, his voice booming. "Your strength is unmatched, but you will now possess the power to channel pure energy, amplifying your attacks and defenses."
Athena smiled at Sophia. "Your intellect is your greatest weapon. I grant you the power of foresight, enabling you to see and counter your enemies' moves before they make them."
Finally, Hades approached Lucas, his presence commanding. "Your mastery of shadows is impressive. I bestow upon you the power to control the dead.