The journey to the mountains was grueling, with rocky paths and fierce winds as Lin Xi, Su Qinghe, Feng, and Liu Han trekked through dense forests and steep cliffs. Despite their growing strength and the marks of the Guardians empowering them, they sensed the looming threat of the Black Dragon Emperor at every step. The Emperor's shadow was never far, and the stakes had never felt higher.
As they climbed higher into the mist-laden mountains, Su Qinghe reviewed their path. "The Guardian of the Sky resides at the peak, but the trials are said to be some of the hardest. The Sky Guardian, the Vermilion Bird, demands bravery and sacrifice from those who seek its power."
Feng scoffed lightly. "More trials? After what we've been through, I thought the Guardians would just hand us the power by now."
Liu Han chuckled, his usual calm demeanor hiding a glint of determination. "They don't make it easy, but that's how we've come this far. Each test has made us stronger."
Lin Xi gazed up at the peaks. She felt both excitement and unease—the Sky Guardian was rumored to possess immense power, but she wondered what kind of sacrifice it might demand. With a quiet resolve, she said, "Whatever it takes, we need this strength to finally stand against the Black Dragon Emperor."
As they neared the summit, a piercing cry echoed through the mountains. A massive silhouette swept through the mist, and they caught a glimpse of vibrant feathers burning like fire in the gray sky. The Vermilion Bird had sensed their presence.
The group reached a plateau where the mist parted, revealing a massive stone archway covered in ancient inscriptions. Beyond it was a grand courtyard, open to the sky, with a circle of engraved symbols at its center. As they stepped forward, the archway blazed with blue flames, and the voice of the Vermilion Bird resonated in the air, both commanding and hauntingly beautiful.
"Those who seek my power must prove they are worthy," the Vermilion Bird declared, its voice echoing through the courtyard. "Only those who can withstand the fire of truth may pass. Step forward, each of you, and face the trial."
The group exchanged determined looks. They'd prepared for this moment, and each had resolved to give their all. Lin Xi stepped forward first, bracing herself for whatever lay ahead.
Suddenly, she was engulfed in flames. But instead of burning, the fire felt like it reached into her mind, exposing her deepest memories and secrets. Images flashed before her eyes—her peaceful life before discovering her heritage, her family, her determination to protect them, and her growing bond with her companions.
Then the flames shifted, showing a future shadowed by the Black Dragon Emperor's victory, her loved ones suffering, the Guardians' powers twisted and broken. It was a vision filled with darkness and despair. The Vermilion Bird's voice echoed around her, demanding, "Do you have the strength to bear this burden, knowing what might be lost?"
Lin Xi felt the weight of her fears pressing down on her. Yet, even as despair loomed, she thought of all those depending on her. Her heart hardened with resolve, and she declared, "I will not let that future come to pass. I will protect everyone, even if I have to sacrifice everything."
The flames around her receded, and the bird's approving voice filled the air. "Your spirit is strong, Lin Xi. You have passed."
Su Qinghe was next. The flames around him took the shape of ancient texts and visions of history, forcing him to confront the weight of his family's legacy. "Do you have the resolve to face the cost of knowledge and the burden of wisdom?" the Vermilion Bird asked. He hesitated, but ultimately, he knew that the fight against the Emperor was worth it. He passed.
Feng faced his own trial, challenged to confront his fear of loss and loneliness. Though he masked it with humor and bravado, the flames of truth exposed his deepest fears. With quiet determination, he declared that he would rather risk everything than lose those he cared about. He, too, passed.
Liu Han's trial was one of loyalty and sacrifice, forcing him to confront the limits of his dedication. He vowed to protect his friends, no matter the cost, and emerged from the flames victorious.
As each of them completed the trial, the ground beneath them shifted, and the Vermilion Bird descended, its wings blazing with fierce, ethereal light. "You have all proven yourselves. I shall grant you my power—but remember, even the strongest wings can fall if the heart falters."
The Vermilion Bird raised one wing, and a powerful light engulfed them. Lin Xi felt a surge of energy, her senses sharpened, and her spirit strengthened. She bore the mark of the Vermilion Bird now, feeling a newfound connection to the skies and a deep resolve to see this journey through.
Just as they were about to leave, a figure emerged from the mist—a lone warrior clad in dark armor, the insignia of the Black Dragon emblazoned on his chest. His voice was cold and mocking as he stepped forward, his gaze fixed on Lin Xi. "Did you think the Black Dragon Emperor wouldn't know about your quest? He sends his regards and warns that your efforts are in vain."
Lin Xi and her companions drew their weapons, ready for battle. The Vermilion Bird's power coursed through them, and with newfound strength, they engaged the warrior in a fierce fight. Blades clashed and flames burst around them as Lin Xi and her friends pushed back against the warrior's attacks.
With a final, powerful strike, Lin Xi's blade cut through the warrior's defenses, forcing him to retreat. He glared at them with hatred before vanishing into the mist, leaving a dark warning echoing in the air. "You may have the Guardians' power, but the Black Dragon Emperor will destroy everything you love."
As the echoes faded, Lin Xi clenched her fists, more determined than ever. The trials had strengthened them, and now they had the power of four Guardians. But the final battle with the Black Dragon Emperor was approaching, and she knew it would be unlike any challenge they had faced before.
The group looked at one another, steeling themselves for the journey ahead. With the Vermilion Bird's blessing, they would not falter. Their next destination lay beyond the mountains, where the final Guardian awaited.