The journey back from the ancient temple was shrouded in tension. Evelyn, Marcus, and Claire had uncovered the lost records of the Keepers of the World, and with that discovery came the terrifying realization that The Source was more than just a power—it was a doorway to the Void, a realm of chaos and destruction. And Lucian was determined to open it.
The trio's resolve had never been stronger, but the path ahead was fraught with danger. They knew they couldn't stop Lucian alone. They needed allies, people who understood the stakes and were willing to stand with them in the fight to save not just their world, but all of reality.
As they made their way back to the capital city, Evelyn's thoughts kept returning to the whispers of the ancient knowledge that now filled her mind. The Keepers had left behind more than just records of their civilization—they had left clues, hidden fragments of information that hinted at the existence of a secret network of individuals who had been guarding the last vestiges of knowledge tied to The Source. This underground society, known only as the "Shaded Circle," had operated in the shadows for centuries, protecting what remained of the ancient world's secrets.
"We need to find them," Evelyn said as they approached the outskirts of the city, her voice filled with urgency. "The Shaded Circle. If anyone can help us stop Lucian, it's them."
Marcus glanced at her, his expression skeptical. "Do we even know where to start looking? This secret society could be anywhere."
Evelyn nodded, her gaze distant as she sorted through the fragmented memories of the Keepers. "I have a feeling they're closer than we think. The Keepers trusted them to guard their knowledge, so they would be in places of power, but hidden from plain sight."
Claire's brow furrowed as she considered this. "If that's true, then they might already know what's happening with The Source. But why haven't they revealed themselves?"
Evelyn sighed, her heart heavy with the weight of the answer she already knew. "Because they don't trust anyone. They've been hiding for centuries, protecting their secrets from people like Lucian. But we don't have time to wait for them to come to us. We need to force their hand."
As they entered the bustling streets of the capital, the trio made their way to one of the most obscure, yet influential places in the city—a hidden tavern known as The Silver Flame. The tavern was nestled in the lower levels of the city's underbelly, a place where those with power and influence gathered to discuss matters that could never be spoken about in public. It was said that if you knew the right people, The Silver Flame could open doors to the most clandestine circles of society.
Evelyn, Marcus, and Claire walked through the narrow, dimly lit streets that led to the tavern. The smell of smoke and damp stone filled the air as they approached the entrance—a nondescript wooden door set into the side of a crumbling stone building.
"This is it," Evelyn said softly, her eyes scanning the area for any signs of danger.
Marcus nodded, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword as a precaution. "Let's hope we're right about this place."
They pushed open the door and stepped inside. The tavern was dimly lit, its interior filled with the scent of burning candles and aged wood. The patrons, cloaked in shadows, sat in small groups at various tables, speaking in hushed tones. It was a place where secrets were traded like currency, and everyone seemed to be hiding something.
Evelyn led the way to the back of the tavern, where a man sat alone at a small table, his face hidden beneath the hood of his cloak. He was a contact she had learned about from the whispers of the ancient knowledge—a man named Idris, who was said to have ties to the Shaded Circle.
As they approached, the man lifted his head slightly, revealing sharp, dark eyes that seemed to take in every detail of their appearance.
"You're the ones asking too many questions," Idris said, his voice low and measured. "That can be dangerous in a place like this."
Evelyn took a deep breath, her gaze steady. "We don't have time for games. We know about the Shaded Circle. We know they've been protecting the knowledge tied to The Source. We need to meet with them."
Idris's eyes narrowed, and for a moment, it seemed as though he might deny knowing anything. But then, with a slow nod, he gestured for them to sit.
"The Circle isn't what it used to be," he said quietly, his voice barely audible over the low murmur of the tavern. "They've been fractured, scattered over the centuries. But they still exist, in one form or another. And they've been watching what's been happening with The Source."
Claire leaned forward, her voice filled with urgency. "Then they know about Lucian. They know what he's trying to do."
Idris's gaze darkened. "They know. But that doesn't mean they're willing to get involved. The Circle has always stayed out of the direct conflict. They see themselves as guardians, not soldiers."
Evelyn's heart sank. "But this isn't just about The Source anymore. Lucian wants to open a gateway to the Void. If he succeeds, it will destroy everything."
Idris remained silent for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, slowly, he nodded. "I'll arrange a meeting. But be warned—if the Circle doesn't trust you, they'll make sure you never speak of this again."