Eli's eyes scanned the ancient text, her mind reeling with the revelation.
Niamh, once a powerful sorceress, had been manipulated by a darker force.
"Aethon, Arianna, we've been deceived," Eli called out.
Aethon and Arianna rushed to her side.
"What do you mean?" Aethon asked.
Eli's voice trembled. "Niamh's not the true enemy. She's being controlled."
Arianna's eyes widened. "By whom?"
The Chronicles revealed a shocking name: "Xaren, the Shadow King."
Aethon's face hardened. "We must confront Xaren."
Eli's determination flared. "But how? The Shadow King's powers are legendary."
Arianna's brow furrowed. "The Chronicles may hold the key."
As they delved deeper into the text, they discovered a hidden passage.
"To defeat Xaren, seek the ancient artifacts:
The Sword of Light,
The Shield of Courage,
The Amulet of Wisdom.
United, they shall bring darkness to light."
Eli's heart quickened. "We have a chance."
Aethon's sword gleamed. "We'll find those artifacts."
Arianna's magic swirled. "And defeat Xaren."
Their quest had just begun.
Meanwhile, in the shadows, Xaren watched.
"Fools," Xaren whispered. "They'll never succeed."