Stepping through the vibrant portal, Jiang Chen and Lei Qian emerged onto a floating platform high above a sea of swirling golden clouds. The air was charged with a powerful energy, and the horizon shimmered with the faint outlines of distant palaces, mountains, and enormous structures suspended in midair. They had arrived in the Ascended Plane, a realm that radiated divinity and danger in equal measure.
Jiang Chen took a deep breath, his senses overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of spiritual energy that saturated the environment. Every breath felt like drawing power directly into his soul. He glanced at Lei Qian, whose usually composed expression was filled with awe.
"This place… it's alive," Lei Qian murmured, gripping his spear tightly. "Even the air feels like it could crush someone unprepared."
Jiang Chen nodded. "The Ascended Plane isn't just a realm; it's a proving ground. Only those who can adapt will survive here."
Arrival at the Gateway City
The platform they stood on began to shift, floating toward a massive city suspended in the clouds. The city's towering spires gleamed with crystalline light, and its walls were engraved with ancient runes that pulsed faintly. As they approached, Jiang Chen could see figures moving along the city streets, each radiating an aura of strength.
"Welcome to Radiant Sky City," a voice boomed. A figure in silver armor appeared, standing atop the city's outer walls. His aura was immense, far beyond anything Jiang Chen had encountered so far.
The armored man descended gracefully, his piercing gaze fixed on the newcomers. "I am Elder Tian Shu, a guardian of this gateway. All who enter the Ascended Plane must prove their worth."
Lei Qian stepped forward, his expression resolute. "We've passed the trials to get here. Isn't that proof enough?"
Tian Shu's lips curved into a faint smile. "The trials were but the first step. Here, strength alone is insufficient. You must demonstrate wisdom, resolve, and adaptability. Follow me."
The elder led them into the city, which was bustling with activity. Warriors sparred in open courtyards, scholars studied glowing tomes in vast libraries, and merchants hawked goods imbued with spiritual energy. It was a melting pot of power and ambition, a place where the strong gathered to seek their destinies.
The Challenge of the Six Spheres
Tian Shu brought them to a grand arena at the city's heart. The arena's floor was divided into six sections, each glowing with a different color—red, blue, green, white, black, and gold. Floating above each section was a sphere radiating intense energy.
"This is the Challenge of the Six Spheres," Tian Shu explained. "Each sphere represents a different aspect of mastery: strength, agility, endurance, intellect, spirit, and balance. To advance further in the Ascended Plane, you must succeed in these trials."
Jiang Chen stepped forward, his eyes narrowing. "What happens if we fail?"
Tian Shu's gaze hardened. "Failure means expulsion from Radiant Sky City. In the worst cases, it could mean death. Choose carefully."
Lei Qian glanced at Jiang Chen. "We've come this far. Let's not back down now."
Jiang Chen nodded. "Let's do it."
Trial One: The Sphere of Strength
Jiang Chen stepped into the red section, where the air grew heavy with a suffocating pressure. The Sphere of Strength descended, hovering just above his head. A deep voice resonated in his mind.
"Prove your might. Break the chains that bind."
Chains of energy erupted from the ground, wrapping around Jiang Chen's limbs. They burned with a searing heat, sapping his strength with every passing moment. He gritted his teeth, channeling his spiritual energy to fortify his body.
"Is this all you've got?" he growled, his muscles straining as he pulled against the chains. They resisted fiercely, but Jiang Chen's determination burned brighter. With a roar, he unleashed a surge of energy, shattering the chains into fragments of light.
The sphere glowed brightly before ascending, and the red section dimmed. Jiang Chen stepped back, his breathing heavy but his resolve unshaken.
Trial Two: The Sphere of Agility
Lei Qian took his place in the blue section, where a maze of glowing platforms materialized. The Sphere of Agility descended, and the platforms began to shift and spin erratically.
"Reach the sphere before the platforms collapse," the voice commanded.
Lei Qian sprang into action, his movements swift and precise. He leapt from platform to platform, his spear providing balance as he navigated the treacherous maze. The platforms crumbled seconds after he touched them, forcing him to stay in constant motion.
As he neared the sphere, a barrage of energy bolts shot toward him. Lei Qian twirled his spear, deflecting the projectiles while maintaining his momentum. With a final leap, he grasped the sphere, which pulsed with a brilliant light before vanishing.
The Path Forward
One by one, they tackled the remaining trials. The Sphere of Endurance tested their resilience against waves of spiritual pressure. The Sphere of Intellect required them to solve intricate puzzles while under mental duress. The Sphere of Spirit delved into their deepest fears, forcing them to confront their inner demons.
Finally, they stood before the golden section, where the Sphere of Balance awaited. It required them to synchronize their energies perfectly, creating harmony between their physical, spiritual, and mental states. Together, they succeeded, their combined efforts unlocking the final path.
Tian Shu appeared once more, his expression unreadable. "You have passed the Challenge of the Six Spheres. Few achieve what you have today. But remember, this is only the beginning. The Ascended Plane will test you in ways you cannot yet comprehend."
Jiang Chen and Lei Qian exchanged a glance, their determination unwavering.
"We're ready," Jiang Chen said. "No matter what lies ahead, we'll face it together."
The elder smiled faintly. "Then step forward, and claim your place among the aspirants of the Ascended Plane."
As they walked through the arena's gates, the city's skyline stretched before them, promising new challenges, new allies, and the ultimate test of their resolve.