The following day, the clan elders announced a new round of trials—the Trials of Loyalty. This series was designed to test not only strength and skill but the loyalty of each disciple to the clan and to one another. It was rumored to be one of the hardest tests in the clan's history, designed to root out those who held any trace of betrayal or self-interest.
For Shenlong, this trial was another chance to prove himself, but he also recognized it as a potential threat. With the suspicions around him, any misstep could be twisted against him by those who sought to undermine him.
During the trial, each disciple was paired with another and forced to confront illusions that preyed on their deepest fears and insecurities. Shenlong's partner was once again Feng, and as they entered the illusionary space, Shenlong felt a surge of confidence in having a friend by his side.
The world around them shifted, transforming into a barren battlefield littered with fallen warriors. Shenlong's heart raced as visions of his past struggles and failures materialized around him—moments of pain and loneliness, the scorn of his clan members, and the betrayal of those he had once trusted.
But it was Feng who stumbled first, his gaze darkening as he encountered an illusion of his own—a vision of his family turning their backs on him, of being cast out and abandoned. Shenlong saw the despair in Feng's eyes and reached out, gripping his shoulder firmly.
"Feng, it's not real. Look at me," Shenlong urged. "Remember why we're here."
Feng's expression shifted as he regained his focus, nodding slowly. "Thank you, Shenlong. You've always been there when I needed it most."
The illusions persisted, but together, they pushed forward, their loyalty to one another unshaken. By the time they emerged from the trial, both were exhausted but victorious. The elders observed their performance, noting the bond between them—a rare display of unwavering loyalty amidst a clan that prized personal strength above all else.