Volume 22 — Harnessing the Palace's Energy
The Core Archives thrummed with life, energy rippling through the chamber like a heartbeat. Lin Feng floated above the obsidian floor, petals of the First Bloom spinning in elegant, controlled arcs. Every crystal, every scroll, every shadowed corner seemed to pulse in harmony with him.
"Feels… like the palace is alive," Lin Feng muttered, awe in his voice. "And it's… helping me?"
Caiyi's eyes widened. "Helping you? That's insane. Hei Xu must be losing his mind right now."
Host, the Peach Spirit whispered, you are beginning to harmonize with the palace's hidden energy. Use it to strengthen your techniques, deepen your mastery, and anticipate your opponent's moves. But caution is key—the palace tests the unworthy.
Lin Feng nodded, closing his eyes. He let the palace's energy flow through him, merging with the First Bloom. Petals spun faster, sharper, and more precise. Every strike, every movement, every pulse of energy resonated with the rhythm of the Core Archives itself.
Suddenly, shadows erupted from the walls—Hei Xu's elite guardians, attempting a surprise assault. Lin Feng's eyes opened, glowing with radiant peach light. The First Bloom responded instantly. Petals formed spiraling barriers, then detached to slice through the attacking shadows. Each strike moved with unmatched precision, guided by the palace's flow.
Caiyi leapt forward, synchronized perfectly with Lin Feng. "This is incredible! You're controlling everything… even the palace!"
Lin Feng grinned, feeling a surge of confidence. "It's not just me anymore… it's all of us—the palace, the First Bloom, and me."
The orb above pulsed, resonating with Lin Feng's aura. The hidden energy enhanced his speed, strength, and perception. He could anticipate attacks before they came, react before they struck, and counter with devastating accuracy.
From the shadows, Hei Xu's cold voice echoed. "Impressive… but you have not yet faced the full might of the Obsidian Root Palace. Are you truly prepared for what comes next?"
Lin Feng clenched his sword, petals flaring outward. "I don't just want to be prepared—I want to surpass him. And with the palace on my side… we will."
The chamber shook as shadows and energy collided. Lin Feng's journey of mastery had taken a leap forward, and the battle for the Obsidian Root Palace was entering its deadliest phase yet.