Chapter 54: Paragons of Inner Sanctum 2
Darius’s soulstone staggered it the third time while Rhoam’s claws finished it. Kelvin’s wounds ached, but his bond with Xerion reduced the pain, and Torren’s nod was clear. "Control is power and I feel that you are ready."
In the morning the trio stood at the Crystal Nexus, ready for the trial and the Crystal Nexus is a radiant arena at the top of the Sanctum’s highest spire, its walls shimmered with prismatic light and etched with runes that pulsed like a heartbeat.
The air was warm and thick with wild magic, the floor glowed and radiated with soulstream energy. Students were packed in the stands with their murmurs a tide of awe, while Masters Kaelus, Veyne, and Torren stood at the nexus’s heart, their beasts were silent and imposing.
Kaelus’s voice boomed, as resonant as the soulstream. "The Echoes of Triumph test your bonds against the forces of glory and perseverance, the soul of a tamer’s legacy. Three trials await: Pride, Endurance, and Unity. Conquer them, and you will stand as paragons of the Inner Sanctum."
Veyne raised a hand while her serpent hissed as she said..... "Begin."
A portal, which was adorned sapphire light opened and the trio stepped in with their beasts and the world dissolved into a storm of light and crystal.
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Trial of Pride
The portal opened and brought them into a realm where of golden plains and their grasses shimmered under a sky of radiant clouds. The air was thick with the scent of sunlight and glory, and the ground thrummed with prideful energy.