Into the Crucible
The moment Li Shen's foot touched the glowing web of roots, a surge of power ripped through him — wild, untamed, yet thrilling.
The Trial of the Weave was no ordinary challenge. It was a living, breathing test of every fibre of their cultivation — body, spirit, and soul.
He could feel the threads' pulse beneath his skin, weaving in harmony with the Moonwoven Blessing, but also resisting, trying to overwhelm him.
The Web Awakens
Suddenly, roots burst from the ground, twisting like serpents, lashing toward the cultivators.
Yue Han dodged nimbly, slicing through with her blade, but each root severed grew two more in its place.
Korin's Monster skill allowed him to glide through attacks, but even he was pushed to the limits.
Li Shen knew brute force alone wouldn't win this fight.
Harmony in Chaos
Closing his eyes, Li Shen reached deep within, calling on the core of the Moonwoven Blessing.
He envisioned the threads not as enemies but as extensions of himself — part of the great web connecting all life.
Slowly, the lashing roots began to slow, responding to his calm.
He wove his root threads, intertwining them with the trial's weave, creating a symphony of light and energy.
Mastering the Weave
The shift was immediate.
Where before the roots attacked, now they moved in graceful patterns, dancing around the cultivators like protective arms.
Faelan watched with narrowed eyes.
"Impressive," he murmured. "You do not resist the weave. You become one with it."
Unity and Strength
Encouraged, Yue Han, Korin, and the others followed Li Shen's lead, syncing their powers with the trial.
Together, their combined energy formed a radiant web, brighter and stronger than before.
The trial pulsed in approval — the roots retracted, the air clearing.
The Final Test
Faelan stepped forward, holding a glowing orb pulsating with raw power.
"This orb contains the essence of the New Realm — a seed of creation and destruction. To claim it, you must prove your heart's purity and strength."
Li Shen took the orb, feeling its weight, not physical, but spiritual.
Visions flooded his mind — memories of sacrifice, loss, hope, and unyielding resolve.
He saw his journey, the bonds forged, and the battles fought.
A Choice of Destiny
The orb's light split into two paths:
One path promised unparalleled power but at the cost of his humanity.
The other path offered strength through unity but required him to protect others at his peril.
Li Shen's heart beat steadily.
He chose the path of unity.
Blessing of the New Realm
The orb dissolved into radiant energy, enveloping Li Shen and his companions.
They felt their powers deepen — new abilities blossomed alongside their old.
The Moonwoven Blessing grew stronger, now fused with the New Realm's essence.
Li Shen opened his eyes, glowing with renewed determination.
"We are ready," he said. "The Sovereigns will face the true strength of the Threadborne."