Volume 42 — The Trial of the Third Secret
The massive sigil pulsed with an energy that seemed alive, resonating through the very Core Archives. Lin Feng hovered before it, petals of the First Bloom spinning in a precise storm, their brilliance intensified by the palace's ancient energy.
Caiyi's voice trembled slightly. "Lin Feng… I've never felt anything like this. It's overwhelming… and it's testing us already."
Lin Feng's eyes narrowed, determination hardening his expression. "This is the trial of the third secret. It won't just test our strength or skill… it will probe our mind, our spirit, and even our fears. We need to be completely in harmony with the palace to survive."
Host, the Peach Spirit whispered, this is the palace's ultimate test. Illusions, constructs, and spiritual challenges will confront you simultaneously. Any hesitation, any doubt, can be fatal.
The sigil flared violently, and the chamber shifted. Shadows twisted into towering guardians, their movements fluid and unpredictable. But they were more than physical threats—they emitted psychic waves, testing Lin Feng's focus and courage.
Caiyi moved beside him, her sword glowing with energy. "These illusions… they're attacking our minds. Stay focused, Lin Feng. Use the second secret to stabilize yourself!"
Lin Feng nodded. He let the palace's energy flow through him, petals of the First Bloom spinning in perfect synchronization with the ancient currents. Every illusion, every shadow, every attack was analyzed and dismantled with precise control. The chamber seemed to respond, shifting in rhythm with his movements.
The trial intensified, waves of energy crashing like storms. Memories of past failures and doubts manifested as spectral figures, forcing Lin Feng to confront fears he had buried deep within. Peach Spirit… guide me. Let every doubt be a lesson, not a weakness.
With a final surge of energy, Lin Feng harmonized fully with the palace. Petals spun faster than ever, slicing through the illusions and shattering the guardians. The sigil glowed brighter, and the chamber fell silent.
Caiyi exhaled, awe in her voice. "Lin Feng… you did it. You passed the trial."
Lin Feng hovered, radiant petals spinning around him. "This is just the beginning. The third secret… its power is immense, but now it's ours to wield. The Obsidian Root Palace still holds more mysteries, and I intend to uncover every one."