Ding!
"Congratulations, Stonehaven! You have completed the trial within the time limit. Rewards: 500 Reputation, 50,000 gold coins, and the Key to the Mist Veil Palace!"
The system notification rang clearly in Marcus's ear.
Much like his earlier encounter with the Blacklake Bloodwood, this trial had hidden a simple but brutal requirement. Without the ability to fight in the air, it would have been unwinnable. With it, the challenge had collapsed in under fifteen minutes. What felt impossible to the unprepared often became routine when the right tools were already in hand.
Marcus allowed himself a small, satisfied breath. There was a faint regret that he had not triggered the Three-Headed Black Dragon Knight. Part of him had genuinely wanted to see it. Still, there would be other opportunities. There were always other chances.
