The trial grounds were unlike anything Jin had seen before. A massive arena carved into the stone, its walls lined with glowing runes that pulsed faintly, as if alive. The ground beneath his feet was rough, fractured from countless battles. Above him, the cavern stretched into darkness, the faint echoes of dripping water the only sound.
Kael stood at the edge of the arena, arms crossed, his expression unreadable. Around them, figures in dark cloaks gathered on the upper balconies, their faces obscured by shadows. They watched in silence, their collective gaze heavy with judgment.
Kael (calmly): "The trial is simple. Defeat the corrupted dragon, and you earn the alliance's trust. Fail, and you die."
Jin tightened his grip on his sword, his eyes scanning the arena for any signs of movement. Beside him, the Golden Dragon coiled its body, its glowing eyes fixed on the massive iron gate at the far end of the arena.
Golden Dragon (in a low growl): "I sense it. The corruption… it's strong. Be prepared, Jin."
The iron gate creaked open, the sound reverberating through the cavern like a death knell. From the shadows emerged the corrupted dragon. It was massive, its blackened scales cracked and oozing with a sickly green light. Its eyes burned with a malevolent glow, and its breath reeked of decay.
The crowd murmured, their whispers filled with awe and fear.
Kael (to the crowd): "Behold the trial of the outsider! Will he survive, or will the dungeon claim another victim?"
The corrupted dragon roared, shaking the ground beneath their feet. Jin steadied himself, his heart pounding in his chest.
Jin (to himself): "It's just another fight. Focus. Stay sharp."
The dragon lunged, its massive claws tearing through the air with terrifying speed. Jin dodged to the side, the force of the attack sending shards of stone flying in every direction. He countered with a quick slash of his rune-infused sword, but the blade barely scratched the beast's corrupted scales.
Jin (gritting his teeth): "Figures. Nothing's ever easy in this place."
The dragon whipped its tail, the impact sending Jin crashing into the arena wall. He coughed, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth.
Golden Dragon (urgently): "Jin, we need to synchronize! Alone, you won't break through its defenses."
Jin nodded, pushing himself to his feet.
Jin: "Alright. Let's try this."
He closed his eyes, focusing on the bond he shared with the Golden Dragon. A surge of energy coursed through him as their auras merged, the rune on his sword glowing brighter.
Golden Dragon: "Soul Bind activated. Let's end this."
Jin moved with newfound speed and precision, his strikes enhanced by the dragon's energy. He weaved between the corrupted dragon's attacks, delivering powerful blows to its weak points.
The corrupted dragon roared in frustration, its movements growing more erratic. It unleashed a wave of toxic breath, the green mist spreading rapidly.
Jin (covering his mouth): "Not good!"
The Golden Dragon unleashed a barrier of light, shielding Jin from the toxic fumes.
Golden Dragon: "Now's your chance. Strike its heart!"
Jin leaped into the air, his sword glowing with blinding light. With a final, powerful swing, he drove the blade into the corrupted dragon's chest. The beast let out a deafening roar as its body began to disintegrate, the green light fading from its eyes.
As the dust settled, Jin stood in the center of the arena, bloodied but victorious. The crowd erupted into murmurs, their whispers carrying a mix of awe and disbelief.
Kael descended into the arena, clapping slowly.
Kael (smirking): "Impressive. You've done what many thought impossible. The alliance recognizes your strength, Jin."
Jin sheathed his sword, his breathing heavy.
Jin: "Good. Now, tell me what you know about the seals."
Kael's smirk faded, replaced by a serious expression.
Kael: "Follow me. There's much to discuss, and little time."