Chapter 82: The Keepers' Sanctuary and a Torrent of Sarcasm

The passage led them through a winding tunnel, the air growing warmer and the whispers of the forest fading away. Finally, they emerged into a hidden valley, bathed in the warm glow of a hidden sun. In the center of the valley stood a magnificent sanctuary, built of white stone and adorned with intricate carvings. Waterfalls cascaded down the surrounding cliffs, feeding into crystal-clear pools. The air was filled with the scent of wildflowers and a sense of ancient power.

*Notification: "Location Discovered: Sanctuary of the Keepers of the Flame. Powerful Magic Detected."*

"Wow," Elara breathed, her eyes wide with wonder. "This is… incredible."

"Incredible and suspiciously well-hidden," Drake muttered, scanning the valley. "I mean, seriously, guys? A secret sanctuary in a hidden valley, protected by magical riddles and guarded by a moonlit gatekeeper? You couldn't have just put a signpost on the main road? Maybe a flashing neon sign? 'Keepers of the Flame: Open for Business (Unless You're Evil).' That would have saved us a lot of trouble."

They approached the sanctuary cautiously, their footsteps echoing on the stone path. As they neared the entrance, a group of figures emerged, their faces hidden by hoods. They were clad in robes of crimson and gold, and each carried a staff topped with a flickering flame.

*Notification: "Enemy Detected: 5 x Keepers of the Flame Guardians. Threat Level: Moderate."*

"Greetings, travelers," one of the figures said, their voice echoing through the valley. "We are the Keepers of the Flame. You have sought our sanctuary, but only those who are worthy may enter. State your purpose, and we shall judge whether you are worthy to receive our knowledge."

Drake stepped forward, a wry grin spreading across his face. "Well, hello there, Keepers," he said. "Nice robes. Very… fiery. Are you guys having a cosplay convention or something? Because I didn't get an invitation. Rude. And by the way, that whole 'hidden sanctuary, guarded by riddles' thing? Seriously? Talk about a security hazard. What if some random goblin stumbles upon your secret entrance? You'd be overrun in no time."

The Keepers remained silent, their faces hidden by their hoods.

"Anyway," Drake continued, "we're here because we need your help. There's this big, bad guy from the Void who's trying to open a portal to… well, let's just say it's not a nice place. And we heard you guys are experts on all things Void-related. So, what do you say? Want to team up and save the world? Or at least, this part of it. We're flexible."

The Keepers exchanged glances, their heads nodding slightly.

"You have faced many trials to reach our sanctuary," one of them said. "Your journey has proven your determination. But before we reveal our secrets, you must face one final test. A test of your courage, your skill, and your worthiness."

"Oh, come on," Drake groaned. "Another test? Seriously? I'm starting to feel like I'm on some kind of cosmic game show. 'Drake's Trials and Tribulations: The Quest for Knowledge (and Possibly a Decent Snack).' Can't we just skip to the part where you tell us everything you know? I'm really tired, and I'm pretty sure I'm developing a complex about all these riddles and trials."

Despite his complaints, Drake knew they had no choice. They needed the Keepers' knowledge, and they were willing to endure whatever tests were necessary to obtain it.

"Fine," he said, sighing. "Let's get this over with. What's the test? Are we fighting a dragon? Solving a puzzle? Or are you just going to ask me another riddle? Because if it's another riddle, I swear I'm going to start making up my own riddles. And they're going to be really, really bad."

The Keepers remained silent, their glowing eyes fixed on Drake. The air crackled with anticipation.