The Eternal Dao Sect had barely set off from Obsidian Shadow Sanctuary when a curious tug took Lucas's chest-an energy unique and unmistakable, like a buzz that hummed in tune with the storm inside his body. In response, it was as if the lightning now beckoned to him.
The group had sealed a pact with Obsidian Shadows, its alliance secured, and the critical knowledge regarding the Relic was obtained. But their journey was still far from over. Without gathering more strength, finding the remaining hidden clans, and getting the materials to craft Saint-Grade weapons that could harm the Dark Apostles, it would mean little.
As they made their way down the mountain, Joe, who had been their strategist and leader thus far, turned to Lucas. "We're heading to the next hidden clan; do you get any feeling as to where they might be?"
Lucas paused. Normally brazen, in that instant, the tone was deeply serene. "I don't know where, exactly, but… it feels like it's calling me. It seems the lightning itself guides me. And then if it exists, I am to be there - some secret clan who specializes in combat and electricity. Then I believe that I would find it.
Joe nodded. "Then this will be on you. You lead. "
---
Call of the Storm
Lucas took charge, his instincts sharper than ever. Thick forests and jagged terrain-the group pressed through it, following the electric pulse that seemed to be in the air for Lucas. The weather was getting more unpredictable with every step taken: dark clouds gathered, and afar, the rumble of thunder groaned.
"This place is unnatural," Sarah muttered, her hands tight on her staff. "The storm feels alive."
"It's more than that," Lucas said in a low voice. "This isn't a storm. It's a test."
"Another test?" Victor grumbled, trudging after them. "Haven't we just survived one with the Obsidian Shadows?
"Oh, shut up," Lucas said icily, his eyes narrowing as a flash of lightning illuminated the path before them. "If you can't handle a little thunder, you're better off staying behind."
Victor grumbled, but he kept moving.
The Arrival to the Stormforge Clan
After hours of trekking through the dangerous terrain, they finally came upon a large canyon where, in the middle, a huge fortress stood with huge spires crackling with arcs of lightning. Carved from dark stone, its surface was etched with runes glowing faintly with electric energy.
"Welcome to the Stormforge Clan," Lucas said, his voice filled with wonder.
"Impressive," Diane said, scanning the fortress. "But why do I feel like they're not just going to let us walk in?"
As if to vindicate her feelings, a great, booming voice roared across the canyon. "Who dares approach the Stormforge?"
A figure stepped out onto a high ledge overhanging the canyon. He was tall and broad-shouldered, his armor shining with the same electric energy as the fortress itself. His voice was heavy with command.
"I am Arion, Warden of the Stormforge. You want in, prove your strength.
Lucas stepped forward, crackling with energy. "I am Lucas of the Eternal Dao Sect, and we have come seeking an alliance with the Stormforge Clan. If a fight is what you want, I am happy to oblige."
Arion smiled. "Very well. Face me, and show me the power of your storm."
---
Trial by Lightning
Down the middle way, the group was led into an arena within the fortress-a great, circular space surrounded by great pillars arcing electricity. Arion was standing in the center, his weapon-a large spear with markings of lightning on it-rested over his shoulder.
"Lucas," Joe said, laying a reassuring hand on his friend's shoulder. "Be careful. It's not about raw power this time. You need to show them why they should trust us."
Lucas grinned, oozing with confidence. "Relax. I've got this."
There was a deafening crack of thunder, and then the battle was on. Arion, a blur, as his spear lashed out with all the deadliness of a bolt of lightning. Lucas dodged the first strike; his energy surging, he counter-attacked with a bolt of electricity.
Flashes of light lit up the arena as the two warriors clashed. Arion was quick and precise, while Lucas fought wildly with intense, heavy blows driven by his battle-crazed soul.
"You have the power," Arion said, blocking one of Lucas's strikes with his spear. "But power without control is nothing."
Lucas growled louder, pressing harder. "Control this!"
He suddenly let loose a huge surge of lightning energy around the entire arena-the wasteful energy had been discharged onto the pillars, but the strength of the attack threw Arion back a couple of steps.
---
The Tide Shift
The fight continued, with Lucas getting weary; Arion showed barely a nick, his movements as smooth and fluid as before.
"You are strong," Arion said serenely, "but you lack discipline. Your storm is wild, unpredictable. If you want to survive against the Dark Apostles, brute strength's not going to be enough."
Gritting his teeth, Lucas shook with exhaustion as his eyes shut in an attempt to center himself. His mind was swarmed with memories: of training in the Eternal Dao Sect, of friends, hardships, and its protection.
But his eyes, opened, shone with a blue, steady light; the wild arches of electricity around him finally gained control and focus.
Arion nodded, his mouth spreading into a very slight smile. "Good. Now show me your true power."
Lucas exploded onto him in a flurry of sharper, deadlier movements-the final cataclysm of blows that racked and shook the entire arena from its hinges.
When the dust settled, Lucas stood tall, his chest heaving with exertion. Arion was on one knee, his spear planted in the ground for support.
"You've proven yourself," Arion said, rising to his feet. "The Stormforge Clan will stand with the Eternal Dao Sect."
---
A New Alliance
The group spent the night in the fortress, resting and learning from the Stormforge warriors. Lucas, now more focused than ever, took the opportunity to refine his skills under Arion's guidance.
As they prepared to leave, Arion approached Lucas. "You have the potential to become a true master of the storm. But remember, power is only as strong as the will that wields it."
Lucas nodded. "I'll remember."
With that, the group set off once more-to still have a long way to go, but another step toward finally confronting the Dark Apostles with the Stormforge Clan in support of them.
As they emerged out of the fortress, Lucas cast a backward glance over the spires that crackled with lightning. A determined grin spread across his face. "Let's see what the next clan has in store.".