Chapter 61: Three Years Later
The passage of time had transformed Xu Tian, Lian Feng, and Zhao Wu. Three years of relentless training, discipline, and unity had led them to a monumental achievement—Core Formation, the crucial stage in their cultivation where their inner power condensed into a radiant core. With this breakthrough, they now stood at the threshold of true mastery, capable of channeling the elemental affinities they had discovered years before.
Xu Tian meditated in the courtyard of their mountain refuge, eyes closed, hands resting on his knees. His body radiated a gentle warmth, evidence of his Fire Affinity, while the ground beneath him scorched faintly. Beside him, Lian Feng's aura rippled like a clear stream, her Water Affinity creating soft currents in the air. Zhao Wu, meanwhile, stood still as a mountain, his Earth Affinity grounding him, lending him an immovable strength.
Their progress had been nothing short of astonishing, but it had not come without sacrifices. Long hours of study, practice, and facing the subtle dangers of cultivation had become their routine. Despite the trials, their bond had only deepened.
Xu Tian opened his eyes, his mind clear and focused. The three years of dedication had paid off, but he couldn't shake the feeling that their journey was far from over. Dark whispers still loomed in the realm, rumors of Immortal Cultivators resurfacing—stronger, more aggressive. The time to act was near.
"How are you feeling?" Lian Feng asked as she approached, her eyes shining with calm clarity.
Xu Tian gave her a small smile. "Stronger. More focused. But the weight of what's coming still lingers."
Zhao Wu joined them, his heavy steps echoing across the courtyard. "We've reached Core Formation, but the real test is ahead. I sense something stirring in the west. A great disturbance in the elemental balance."
Chapter 62: The Shadow of Immortals
As the trio discussed their next move, a sharp gust of wind carried an unnatural chill through the mountain. They immediately sensed it—an ominous presence. Xu Tian stood, his gaze hardening as he instinctively reached for the Absorption Techniques they had perfected. Lian Feng's hands began to glow faintly with water energy, while Zhao Wu clenched his fists, his earthbound strength resonating with the mountain itself.
"We're not alone," Xu Tian muttered, scanning the horizon. He could feel it—a faint, corrupted energy that had become all too familiar in recent months.
Suddenly, a figure emerged from the mist, draped in dark robes, their aura cold and sinister. "You've grown," the figure said, voice low and distorted. "But you're still too late. The Immortal Cultivators will rise again, and this time, no mortal power can stop us."
Zhao Wu stepped forward, his fist tightening. "We've faced worse than you. Core Formation isn't the limit of our strength."
The figure chuckled darkly. "You think Core Formation is enough? You are mere children meddling with forces beyond your control. We have ascended beyond the mortal plane."
Lian Feng raised a hand, her water aura shimmering around her. "Perhaps. But we have something you don't—unity and purpose."
Without hesitation, Xu Tian stepped forward, unleashing a wave of Fire Qi from his core. The flames danced in the air, their power fueled by years of training and his deep affinity for fire. Zhao Wu slammed his foot into the ground, sending a shockwave of earth energy toward the intruder, while Lian Feng's water spiraled into a sharp torrent, cutting through the air with precision.
The dark figure blocked their attacks with a flick of his wrist, but his expression faltered as he realized the depth of their power. "So... you've mastered the elemental techniques. Impressive. But it won't be enough to stop the tide that is coming."
And with that, the figure vanished into the shadows, leaving behind a lingering sense of dread.
Chapter 63: The Coming Storm
The encounter left Xu Tian and his companions uneasy. It was clear now that the Immortal Cultivators were preparing to make their move. The shadow of their return loomed larger every day, and despite their newfound strength, the trio knew that this would be the greatest battle of their lives.
Back at their refuge, Xu Tian stood before the ancient book that had set them on this path. Its pages were worn from years of study, but its wisdom still held true. "We need more than just strength," he said quietly. "We need allies."
Lian Feng nodded, her eyes scanning the horizon. "The Immortal Cultivators are not the only threat. Others will come for the power we've gained. If we can form alliances with other sects and protectors of this realm, we can stand a better chance."
Zhao Wu crossed his arms. "The world doesn't trust easily. We'll need to prove ourselves—show them that we're not just after power, but the safety of the realm."
Xu Tian agreed. "We'll start by seeking out those who have also reached Core Formation. There are others out there like us—guardians of the elements, protectors of balance. Together, we might stand a chance."
And so, with a renewed sense of purpose, the trio prepared for the next stage of their journey. The years of training had shaped them into formidable warriors, but they knew that raw power alone would not be enough. The forces of darkness were gathering, and the world needed champions who could unite in the face of destruction.
As they descended from the mountain, leaving their sanctuary behind, Xu Tian felt the weight of his responsibilities settle over him once more. They were stronger than they had ever been, but the future was uncertain.
And so they marched on, toward the coming storm, their hearts united by the light they sought to protect.