Caelum explained to them that there were three trials, which they would have to complete before reaching the Shrine: Courage, Wisdom, and Heart. The first had tested his bravery as he faced the deepest fear of his heart. However, the second would test a different kind of strength.
They came to a cliff overlooking a chasm as wide as a river but much deeper. Its depth was hidden in mist and cloud. There was an old, narrow, decaying bridge that crossed over, barely wide enough for a single person to walk upon. On the far side stood an ancient stone arch; it was inscribed with runes that glowed faintly in the darkness.
"This is the trial of wisdom," Caelum said. "The bridge is treacherous, and one wrong step will lead to certain death. But there is a way across, for those who can decipher the riddle of the runes."
Aiden stepped forward, examining the runes. They seemed to shimmer and shift, forming words that danced at the edge of his vision:
"Two steps forward, one to the right,
Three steps left, then trust the light.
Step carefully, but not in fear,
For only the worthy may draw near."
Min repeated the words to himself. There was no room on the bridge to just walk across; he'd have to follow the steps step for step or tumble into the abyss.
He took a deep breath, went across the bridge, and followed the instructions. Two steps forward, then one to the right. Three steps to the left, then stop. He could feel the bridge swaying under his feet, and the weight of the blade beside him kept throwing him off-balance.
But he focused on the words, on the rhythm of his steps, and every move brought him a strange clarity, as if the road was guiding him forward. At last, he arrived at the other side, crossed the arch, and an energy wave swept through him.
The test of wisdom was passed.