Volume 37 — The Second Ancient Secret
The chamber fell silent as Lin Feng and Caiyi caught their breath. The trial had tested every fiber of his being, but he had emerged victorious, his connection with the palace stronger than ever. Yet a faint hum echoed through the Core Archives, beckoning him deeper.
Caiyi glanced at him, concern mixed with awe. "Lin Feng… the palace isn't done with us, is it?"
Lin Feng shook his head, petals of the First Bloom spinning like a radiant shield. "No… it's guiding us. There's another secret hidden deeper within. I can feel it—older, more powerful, and far more dangerous than the first."
Host, the Peach Spirit whispered, the second secret is a legacy of the palace's earliest masters. Only those with absolute harmony and understanding can unlock it. It will test not just strength, but wisdom, courage, and your spirit.
Lin Feng's gaze hardened. "Then we face it head-on. I've survived Hei Xu, mastered the first secret, and endured its trial. This… this is the next step."
The palace shifted, walls elongating and twisting into intricate passageways. Glowing symbols illuminated a pathway deeper than any Lin Feng had ventured. The air thickened with energy, almost tangible, as though the palace itself was alive and testing them.
Caiyi drew her sword, eyes alert. "If Hei Xu feared the first layers… I can't imagine what's waiting here."
Lin Feng smiled faintly. "Then we proceed with caution… and confidence. The palace is ours to explore, but it demands respect."
As they advanced, the air thickened into currents of energy that swirled around them like invisible storms. Shadowy illusions rose, forming creatures that whispered doubts, fears, and memories of past battles, aiming to shake their resolve.
Lin Feng clenched his fists, petals spinning faster, slicing through illusions without hesitation. Peach Spirit… focus. The second secret won't be easy, but it's meant to strengthen, not destroy.
Finally, at the heart of the twisting corridors, a massive chamber revealed itself. At its center hovered a glowing sigil, ancient and incomprehensibly powerful. Lin Feng felt the pulse of energy resonate deep within him—the second ancient secret of the Obsidian Root Palace awaited.
Caiyi's eyes widened. "It's… enormous. And it's alive."
Lin Feng's aura flared. "Then let's awaken it… together."