Chapter : The Trial of the Azure Peaks
Tian Yu stood at the base of the Azure Peaks, the towering mountains shrouded in mist and mystery. The path ahead was treacherous, known to test the very limits of a cultivator's mind, body, and spirit. Only those who could conquer these trials would earn the right to enter the Core Region of the Azure Sky Sect.
The Ascent Begins
As he began his ascent, the air grew thin, and an oppressive spiritual pressure weighed down upon him. Each step felt heavier than the last, but Tian Yu's determination remained unwavering. He focused his Qi, reinforcing his body and steadying his breath.
The first challenge manifested as an illusionary forest. Trees twisted into grotesque shapes, and eerie whispers filled the air, attempting to erode his sanity. Drawing upon his Void Physique, Tian Yu centered his mind, allowing the illusions to pass through him without effect. He navigated the maze with clarity, emerging unscathed on the other side.
Confronting Inner Demons
The next trial delved into his psyche. Spectral figures emerged, taking the form of those he had defeated, including Zhao Han and Jiang Chen. They taunted him, exploiting any lingering doubts.
"You are not worthy," one specter hissed.
"Your path leads to ruin," another sneered.
Tian Yu closed his eyes, confronting his inner turmoil. He acknowledged his past actions and the necessity of his journey. With a resolute heart, he dispelled the phantoms, reaffirming his commitment to his path.
The Guardian of the Peak
As he neared the summit, a formidable presence blocked his path. A colossal guardian, forged from stone and ancient Qi, towered before him. Its eyes glowed with a primal light as it raised a massive blade, challenging Tian Yu's resolve.
Drawing his sword, Tian Yu channeled his energy into the blade, its edge shimmering with a silvery hue. The guardian's blade descended with a force that could cleave mountains. Utilizing Void Steps, Tian Yu evaded the strike, reappearing above the guardian.
"Lunar Void Slash!"
A crescent of energy arced downward, striking the guardian's head. The construct staggered but did not fall. It retaliated with a sweeping strike, forcing Tian Yu to retreat.
Realizing brute force alone wouldn't suffice, Tian Yu attuned himself to the guardian's energy patterns. He noticed a brief fluctuation in its core after each attack. Timing his move precisely, he dodged the next strike and thrust his sword into the guardian's chest during the momentary lapse.
The guardian froze, its stone form cracking before crumbling into dust.
[System Alert: Trial Conquered] +1500 Sect Contribution Points Reward: Azure Essence Pill
Tian Yu retrieved the Azure Essence Pill from the remnants, feeling its potent energy resonate with his own.
Entry into the Core Region
With the trials behind him, Tian Yu reached the summit, where a grand gate awaited. Elders of the sect stood in anticipation. Among them was Elder Mei, who nodded approvingly.
"You have proven your worth, Tian Yu. Welcome to the Core Region of the Azure Sky Sect."
As he stepped through the gate, Tian Yu felt a surge of energy, the ambient Qi in the Core Region far denser and purer. He knew that greater challenges and opportunities awaited, but with each step, he was closer to unraveling the mysteries of the Void Era and achieving his ultimate goal.
End of Chapter : The Trial of the Azure Peaks