The group reached the entrance to the next trial site: a colossal gateway carved into a mountain, glowing with ancient runes. The system chimed, alerting Xiao Tian of the challenge ahead.
---
[Trial of Unity Unlocked]
Objective: Demonstrate absolute trust and synergy among all party members.
Reward: Divine Unity Sigil – Enhances group abilities and grants a shared soul ring bonus.
---
"This trial is different," Xiao Tian said, studying the runes. "It's not about individual strength but our ability to work as one."
Ling'er frowned. "It won't be easy. Our bond has grown, but we're still individuals with our own strengths and flaws."
Mei Lan smirked. "Well, then, let's hope our fearless leader can keep us all together."
Renxue's golden aura flared. "We've faced everything else together. We'll overcome this too."
Zhao Yue's voice was calm but firm. "Let's not underestimate the trial. These challenges are designed to exploit weaknesses."
The gateway opened, revealing a vast labyrinth. Each step inside seemed to pull them apart, the space warping and shifting as the trial began.
---
The Labyrinth of Division
The group was separated into pairs:
Xiao Tian and Zhao Yue
Ling'er and Renxue
Mei Lan and Yueling
Each pair faced unique challenges designed to test their trust and unity.
---
Xiao Tian and Zhao Yue
The duo found themselves in a chamber filled with shifting shadows. A voice echoed:
"Only one of you may leave. Prove your worth, or perish together."
Zhao Yue stepped forward, her violet eyes scanning the room. "It's a trick. They're testing if we'll betray each other."
Xiao Tian nodded. "Then we do nothing but trust each other."
The shadows formed a massive creature, its claws slashing toward Zhao Yue. Xiao Tian moved instinctively, shielding her with his Celestial Dragon Barrier.
"Why did you risk that?" Zhao Yue asked, her tone sharp but tinged with worry.
"Because I trust you to protect me too," Xiao Tian replied calmly.
Zhao Yue's expression softened, and she unleashed her Shadow Bind, immobilizing the creature. Together, they struck, their powers merging in perfect harmony to destroy the beast.
The system chimed:
---
[Trust Bond with Zhao Yue Increased – 95%]
---
The door ahead opened, allowing them to proceed.
---
Ling'er and Renxue
Ling'er and Renxue faced a trial of elements. A raging inferno blocked their path, while a freezing blizzard threatened to consume them from behind.
"We can't use only fire or ice," Ling'er said. "We need to combine them."
Renxue hesitated. "Our powers clash. How can we balance them?"
Ling'er placed a hand on Renxue's shoulder. "Trust me. I'll match my energy with yours."
They synchronized their soul power, creating a harmonious wave of fire and ice that extinguished the flames and calmed the blizzard.
The system chimed:
---
[Synergy Bond with Ling'er and Renxue Increased – 90%]
---
The path ahead cleared.
---
Mei Lan and Yueling
Mei Lan and Yueling found themselves in a lush garden filled with deadly traps. The trial required them to navigate without using brute force or their divine powers.
"This is frustrating," Mei Lan muttered, dodging a set of spikes.
Yueling smiled serenely. "It's about patience and understanding. Follow my lead."
With Yueling's guidance, they avoided the traps and reached the exit. Mei Lan sighed in relief.
"You're good at this," Mei Lan admitted.
"Sometimes, peace is the best solution," Yueling replied with a gentle smile.
The system chimed:
---
[Harmony Bond with Mei Lan and Yueling Increased – 88%]
---
Reunited
The pairs reunited at the heart of the labyrinth, where a glowing sigil floated in the air. Xiao Tian reached out, and the sigil split into five parts, entering each of them.
---
[Trial of Unity Completed!]
Reward: Divine Unity Sigil Acquired
Effect: All team members gain a shared 100,000-year soul ring and enhanced synchronization in combat.
---
"We did it," Ling'er said, her icy aura shimmering with relief.
Renxue smiled. "We're stronger together."
Mei Lan nodded, her fiery aura blazing. "This was a good test. We're more than just individuals now."
Yueling and Zhao Yue exchanged a glance, their trust in the group deepened.
Xiao Tian looked at them all, his heart swelling with pride. "Let's keep moving. The next trial won't wait for us."