Lin Xiao stood in front of the great gate, looking at the ancient inscriptions engraved on it. The gate radiated a mysterious aura, as if it were testing anyone who tried to pass through.
He took a step forward, but suddenly, sparks engraved on its surface shot out, pushing him back forcefully.
"Not yet…"
The voice was deep, as if it came from the depths of time itself.
Lin Xiao's eyes narrowed, as he wiped the dust off his clothes. "Another test, then?"
The Grand Elder appeared beside him, looking at him calmly.
"This isn't just a gate, it's a seal on your true strength. If you don't understand yourself, you won't be able to pass through."
Lin Xiao looked at the gate again. He had defeated his shadow, overcome so many difficulties, but why was he still unable to open it?
Then he remembered the shadow's last words: "The shadow never disappears…"
"Is that the answer?" He muttered to himself.
He closed his eyes, sensing the energy surging within him. He didn't have to defeat his shadow completely, but he had to accept it as a part of himself.
Slowly, he opened his eyes again, and advanced towards the gate. But this time, he didn't try to break it or force his strength on it.
He reached out his hand, and gently touched its surface.
Suddenly, the inscriptions shook and glowed golden, before the gate slowly opened.
The Grand Elder smiled and nodded. "I see."
Behind the gate, a vast courtyard stretched out, and in the middle of it… there was a person waiting for him.
It wasn't a stranger, it was… another version of himself.
But this time, it wasn't the shadow, it was… the real Lin Xiao.