The eerie silence of the forest pressed in around them as they moved past the fallen creature. Its presence lingered in the air, like a memory that refused to fade. The weight of what had just occurred hung heavily over Jiang Yan, but it was nothing compared to the growing realization that the trials had only just begun.
Moria's earlier words echoed in his mind: The path ahead will only grow more difficult.
They approached the stone archway with caution, the faint glow of the runes casting an eerie light over the clearing. Moria, as always, seemed unfazed by the ominous surroundings. Li Yuan, on the other hand, was visibly on edge, his hand constantly hovering near the hilt of his sword.
Moria placed a hand on the archway, her fingers brushing over the runes. The air shifted, the atmosphere heavy with a sense of anticipation. And then, with a soft rumble, the archway began to open, revealing a path leading deeper into the forest.
"This is the second trial," Moria said, her voice grim. "We must pass through it to continue our journey."
Jiang Yan stepped forward, his eyes scanning the dark path ahead. "What awaits us?"
"The true test of power," Moria replied, her golden eyes glinting in the dim light. "And the price of seeking the Flame Lotus."
As they stepped into the archway, the forest seemed to close in around them, the trees twisting and contorting into strange, grotesque shapes. The air grew thick, suffocating, as though they were being drawn into a deeper darkness.
Jiang Yan took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. Whatever lay ahead, he knew they had no choice but to face it. The trial was far from over, and the true danger was just beginning.
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