Volume 33 — Consolidating Power
The Core Archives settled into an uneasy calm. The tremors of battle had faded, leaving Lin Feng hovering at the center, petals of the First Bloom spinning in a steady, radiant rhythm. Hei Xu was defeated, his shadow constructs shattered, but the palace itself still whispered of hidden secrets and lingering power.
Caiyi exhaled, glancing around the chamber. "Lin Feng… the battle is over, but it feels like there's so much left. The palace… it's vast, almost alive."
Lin Feng nodded, eyes glowing with determination. "Yeah… Hei Xu controlled part of it, but now it responds fully to me. I need to consolidate my control before anything else happens. The palace is powerful, but that also means danger lurks in every corner."
Host, the Peach Spirit whispered, the palace has acknowledged you as its true master. But this is only the beginning. Its hidden energy contains layers you have yet to explore, challenges that even Hei Xu feared.
Lin Feng clenched his fists, petals spinning faster. "I understand. First, I stabilize the Core Archives, then I unlock the deeper secrets. No shortcuts—only mastery."
He extended his hand, connecting with the palace's energy. The petals of the First Bloom spun in synchronization with the chambers, walls, and floating crystals, harmonizing the flow of energy that had once been chaotic under Hei Xu's control. The palace itself seemed to breathe, responding to Lin Feng's will, revealing hidden passageways, secret chambers, and forbidden techniques long sealed away.
Caiyi's eyes widened. "It's like the palace is alive… and it trusts you."
Lin Feng smiled faintly. "It's more than trust. It's understanding. Every technique, every petal, every pulse of energy… I can feel it now. Hei Xu underestimated the palace, and that was his mistake."
The Core Archives pulsed with light as Lin Feng focused, the First Bloom spinning in perfect harmony. He had defeated Hei Xu, but the true challenge lay ahead—unlocking the palace's full potential and defending it from any who would dare challenge its new master.
Caiyi stepped closer, determination in her eyes. "Then let's start this next phase together. Whatever the palace holds, we face it as one."
Lin Feng's petals flared, radiant and powerful. "Agreed. Hei Xu's reign is over… and now, the Obsidian Root Palace belongs to us."