As Xiao Tian and his companions prepared to leave the Trial of Power arena, an oppressive aura swept over them. The air grew thick, and the ground trembled under an unseen force. A voice, soft yet commanding, echoed through the heavens.
"So, you're the ones causing such a stir in the God Realm."
A figure descended from the skies, enveloped in golden flames that flickered with divine brilliance. Her long scarlet hair cascaded like molten lava, and her golden eyes burned with intensity. She wore an elegant robe adorned with phoenix feathers, exuding an aura of both majesty and danger.
"I am Mei Lan, Queen of the Phoenix Clan and protector of the Divine Beast Sanctum," she declared. Her gaze swept over the group, stopping on Xiao Tian. "You seek to ascend, yet you tread upon sacred ground that belongs to the beasts. I cannot let that go unchallenged."
Ling'er stepped forward, her icy aura clashing with Mei Lan's fiery presence. "We have no intention of desecrating anything. We're only here to pass the trials."
Mei Lan's expression softened slightly, but her voice remained firm. "Intentions mean little. Prove your worth to me, or turn back."
Xiao Tian stepped between them, his calm demeanor diffusing some of the tension. "If a test is what you desire, we will face it. But I ask that you allow us to explain ourselves after."
Mei Lan's lips curved into a smirk. "You're bold. I like that. Very well. Let us see if your strength matches your resolve."
---
The Battle of Flames and Frost
Mei Lan raised her hand, summoning a phoenix formed entirely of flames. The fiery bird screeched, its cry shaking the heavens as it dove toward Xiao Tian.
"Ling'er, with me!" Xiao Tian shouted.
Ling'er responded instantly, her Glacial Tempest clashing with the phoenix's flames. The resulting explosion created a shockwave that knocked everyone back. Mei Lan observed with an amused expression.
"Impressive, but you'll need more than that," Mei Lan said, her golden aura intensifying.
Renxue and Yueling joined the fray. Renxue summoned her Holy Flame Spear, directing it at Mei Lan, while Yueling used her Nature Empress Form to entangle the phoenix with divine vines. Zhao Yue struck from the shadows, aiming for Mei Lan's blind spots.
Despite their combined efforts, Mei Lan moved with elegance, countering their attacks with ease. Her fiery aura burned away Yueling's vines, while her phoenix shielded her from Renxue's spear.
"You're strong, but strength without harmony is meaningless," Mei Lan said, her voice carrying a lesson.
Xiao Tian realized what she meant. He closed his eyes briefly, focusing on the bond he shared with his companions. "Everyone, focus your attacks together. Synchronize!"
He unleashed his Celestial Dragon Strike, its divine energy blending with Ling'er's frost, Renxue's holy flames, Yueling's nature aura, and Zhao Yue's shadow power. The combined attack formed a dazzling beam of light that shot toward Mei Lan.
The phoenix screeched in defiance, but the overwhelming force shattered its form, and Mei Lan was forced to retreat a step. For the first time, a flicker of surprise crossed her face.
"Well done," she said, lowering her hands. "You've proven yourselves worthy."
---
Mei Lan's Decision
The battlefield fell silent, the oppressive aura dissipating. Mei Lan approached Xiao Tian, her golden eyes meeting his. "You possess a rare quality, Xiao Tian. Leadership, strength, and the ability to unite others. I see now why the trials favor you."
She extended her hand. "I, Mei Lan, acknowledge you. If you'll have me, I wish to join your journey. My strength will be yours."
The Multi-Blessings System chimed:
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[New Companion Added!]
Mei Lan
Title: Queen of the Phoenix Clan
Special Ability: Phoenix Rebirth Flame (Heals and empowers allies, purges negative effects).
---
Ling'er crossed her arms, her icy aura flaring slightly. "Another one? How many more will join you, Xiao Tian?"
Mei Lan chuckled, the flames in her eyes dancing with amusement. "Jealousy doesn't suit you, Ice Maiden."
Xiao Tian stepped in before the tension escalated. "Mei Lan, welcome to the team. Your strength will be invaluable as we face the trials ahead."
Mei Lan nodded, her fiery demeanor softening. "Then let us move forward together. The next trial awaits, and I am curious to see how far you can go."
---
With a new ally by their side, Xiao Tian's group grew stronger, but so did the challenges awaiting them in the God Realm.