Blood still sizzled on Ethan's palm as the crimson seal burned itself into his skin. The mark—shaped like a dragon devouring the sun—pulsed with ancient energy, binding him irrevocably to the fire path.
Around him, the chamber grew quiet. The last of the flames died down, and from the ash rose a figure—ethereal, armored in ember and shadow.
"You have passed the Trial by Fire," the spirit intoned.
"But fire alone cannot make a king. It must be tempered by oath."
Ethan dropped to one knee, not in submission, but readiness.
"Then give me the next trial," he said.
"I'll tame every element this world dares to throw at me."
The spirit's eyes flashed gold. A deep rumble shook the platform as the chamber walls split, revealing a staircase made of obsidian and bone. At its peak—a floating scroll suspended by pure qi.
A voice echoed in his mind.
[System Notification]
—New Path Unlocked: Flameforged Monarch
—Skill Acquired: Infernal Vow
—Optional Trial Detected: Blood Oath Ritual
Ethan clenched his fists. His power was no longer just awakening—it was demanding recognition.
He stepped forward.
And the next chapter of war began.