Chereads / Sovereign : Rise of the Forgotten Prodigy / Chapter 63 - Chapter 63: The Trial of Courage

Chapter 63 - Chapter 63: The Trial of Courage

Stepping into the next chamber, Shenlong felt a sudden rush of heat. The room was surrounded by roaring flames, their intensity radiating a fierce energy that seemed almost alive. In the center of the chamber stood a bridge of narrow stone slabs, leading to the opposite side. However, between each slab was a fiery chasm, seething with molten lava.

"Your courage will be tested here," echoed the guardian's voice. "Do not let fear cloud your heart, for only the fearless can walk this path."

Shenlong inhaled deeply, steeling himself. The heat was almost unbearable, and each step forward felt as if it might be his last. As he advanced, the flames roared louder, flickering with an almost taunting presence. He focused on his breathing, remembering his training. He had overcome powerful beasts, had faced scorn and ridicule from his clan—this was merely another trial on his path.

Taking a careful step onto the first stone slab, Shenlong held his balance, his mind unwavering. He concentrated on his core, letting the energy within him stabilize his body. The next stone was even narrower, the heat intensifying with every move forward.

Suddenly, an intense gust of wind whipped through the chamber, causing the flames to rise higher, nearly licking his feet. Shenlong gritted his teeth, fighting the instinct to retreat. Each slab felt as if it might crumble beneath him, but he forced himself forward, one careful step at a time.

Halfway across, a fiery specter appeared from the flames, resembling a creature with blazing red eyes and claws like molten steel. It snarled at him, its gaze filled with fury.

"Only the brave can cross," it growled, lunging toward him.

Without hesitation, Shenlong summoned his energy, channeling a protective shield around himself. The specter struck with immense force, testing his resilience, but Shenlong held his ground, refusing to let fear take root. He focused on the pendant's power, feeling it pulse with energy, strengthening his resolve.

With one final push, he leaped across the remaining gap, landing on the other side of the bridge just as the flames began to recede. The fiery specter vanished, leaving behind a faint, approving echo.

"The trial of courage is complete. You have proven your heart unyielding."

Breathless but victorious, Shenlong stood tall, feeling his confidence and strength grow. He was now closer than ever to uncovering the temple's secrets.