The second stage of the Alliance Martial Trials dawned in a thick, misty haze. The survival challenge was renowned for its grueling tests of endurance, resourcefulness, and mental fortitude. Unlike the combat stage, where opponents were clear and objectives straightforward, the survival challenge demanded that participants adapt to the unknown.
The trial officials had chosen an ancient forest known as the Verdant Abyss, a place brimming with mystical flora and lurking beasts. Legends spoke of the forest's shifting paths and volatile spirit energy, which made navigation treacherous for even experienced cultivators. It was rumored that the forest itself had once been a powerful spiritual entity, and some claimed it still had a will of its own.
As Shenlong and the other participants lined up at the forest's edge, an elder announced the rules. "Your task is simple," he began, though his tone suggested otherwise. "You must survive and gather five Spirit Orbs, hidden throughout the Verdant Abyss. Only then may you exit the forest. But beware—many dangers lie within."
At the elder's signal, the disciples surged forward, disappearing into the mist. Shenlong, moving with purpose, slowed his pace as he entered the forest, sensing the profound energy that permeated the air. The pendant around his neck thrummed, almost as if resonating with the forest's aura. He allowed his senses to expand, tuning into the vibrations and subtle movements around him.
Soon, Shenlong realized that he wasn't alone in his approach. Nearby, he heard the crackling of footsteps—a familiar energy signature. It was Qin Feng, the rival from his own clan. Though Feng's disdain for Shenlong was well-known, Shenlong knew they shared a common goal. For now, their clan loyalty would outweigh any personal grudges.
"I see you're not stumbling through the forest like a fool," Feng muttered as he fell in step beside Shenlong. "At least that's one less thing to worry about."
Shenlong kept his tone measured. "If we're after the same orbs, it only makes sense to work together. For now."
They exchanged a wary glance but continued forward in a cautious alliance. The forest, however, had other plans. The mist thickened as they moved deeper, and strange sounds echoed from unseen sources, making it clear that they were being watched. Shenlong sharpened his senses, aware that even a moment's lapse could be disastrous.
Their first real test came when they encountered a cluster of carnivorous Spirit Vines—sentient plants that lunged toward them, their roots tearing through the ground in search of flesh. Shenlong dodged their tendrils, using his spirit energy to slice through the thick vines, while Feng launched fire-based attacks to burn the roots. Working together, they managed to clear the way, though both knew that the challenges would only grow more intense.
As they ventured deeper, Feng suddenly froze, his eyes narrowing as he gestured for silence. Shenlong followed his gaze, spotting a faint glow within the roots of an ancient tree. It was a Spirit Orb, pulsing with vibrant energy.
But before they could approach, a powerful aura filled the air. From the shadows emerged a Stoneback Bear, a massive, earth-aligned beast known for its formidable defenses and relentless attacks. The bear had clearly claimed the orb as its territory, and it showed no sign of relinquishing it.
Feng grinned, summoning his spirit energy into a blazing sphere in his palm. "I'll distract it. You get the orb."
Shenlong nodded, appreciating Feng's decisive strategy. With a powerful roar, Feng charged at the Stoneback Bear, unleashing a barrage of flames to draw its attention. The bear roared in response, its massive claws slashing through the air as it charged toward Feng.
Seizing the opportunity, Shenlong darted toward the tree, reaching for the Spirit Orb. As his fingers closed around it, he felt a surge of energy pulse through him, rejuvenating his spirit reserves. But as he turned to leave, he realized the bear had caught onto his movement. Its fierce eyes locked onto him, abandoning its pursuit of Feng as it barreled toward Shenlong.
Reacting swiftly, Shenlong channeled energy through his pendant, forming a shield that absorbed the bear's impact just in time. The pendant flared with a vibrant glow, amplifying his defenses and creating a shimmering barrier that repelled the bear's assault.
Seeing Shenlong's predicament, Feng regrouped and launched another wave of fire attacks, finally forcing the beast to retreat. With a shared nod, they continued onward, their alliance now strengthened by shared danger and necessity.