Chapter 3: The Descent

Karcel's first task was the most dangerous: entering the underworld to find an ancient ally who had once helped her maintain the balance of Aerilon. This being, known only as Korthis, was a shadowy figure who commanded the legions of the dead, a force Karcel hoped to sway to her cause.

As Karcel descended into the depths, the air grew colder, and the light of the heavens faded behind her. The path to the underworld was treacherous, lined with the whispers of lost souls and the remnants of forgotten battles. Rael and Naida accompanied her, their presence a reminder that even gods were vulnerable in these lands.

At last, they reached the gates of the underworld. A towering figure awaited them—Korthis, his eyes glowing like embers in the dark.

"You dare return to my domain?" he growled, his voice deep and resonant. "After all these centuries?"

Karcel stepped forward, her gaze steady. "I have not come to ask for favors. I come to offer a pact."

Korthis raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And what could the goddess of balance possibly offer me?"

"The gods are at war. If they win, there will be no underworld left. You and your legions will be swept aside in their battle for dominance."

Korthis considered this for a moment. "And what do you ask of me?"

"Your army. Your loyalty. Stand with us against the rogue gods, and when the balance is restored, you will be free to rule the underworld as you see fit."

Korthis smiled, a dangerous glint in his eye. "Very well, goddess. I will stand with you. But remember this: once the war is over, your word is all that binds me."