The ground beneath the temple trembled.
From the core of the ruin, a massive stone door cracked open—etched with blood runes and breathing dark mist.
[System Alert: Ancient Gate Detected – Danger Level: Extreme]
Ye Tian exchanged a glance with Yue Qing. Her hand trembled faintly, the mark on her palm glowing brighter.
"That gate…" she whispered. "It's calling to me."
Without warning, a surge of corrupted energy swept outward. It didn't hurt—it tested them, brushing against their spirit like fingers searching for weakness.
[Warning: Entity Scan Initiated – Identity Confirmed: Bearers of Cursed Echo and Abyssal Seed]
[Trial 2 Activated – Path of Sacrifice]
Meanwhile – Aboveground
Zhao Feng's squad descended into the Abyss.
A barrier pulsed as they crossed into the lower levels.
"It's open," Zhao muttered. "Someone activated the deeper layers."
One disciple flinched. "No one survives that far in."
Zhao's eyes narrowed. "Ye Tian always did break the rules."
Lin Ruyan followed silently behind, her eyes drawn toward the mist. Please… don't make me choose again.
Back at the Crimson Gate
Ye Tian gripped his weapon.
From the gate, a guardian spirit emerged—no body, just red chains and a mask forged from bone.
"You wish to pass?" it boomed. "Then prove your resolve."
The world twisted again—only this time, Yue Qing vanished.
"Yue Qing!" Ye Tian shouted, slashing at the illusion, but the spirit held him in place.
[Sub-Trial: Face What You'd Die For]
His pulse slowed.
This wasn't a fight of blades anymore. This was about connection—what he feared losing most.
And deep within the illusions… Yue Qing faced her own vision:
Ye Tian, broken. Dying. Smiling at her with trust.
"I believe in you."
Tears burned her eyes. No one has ever said that to me…
As both trials unfold, the Crimson Gate opens wider, layer by layer.
But something watches from beyond it now.
"They're getting too close to the truth…"