Lin Feng, Lunaria, and Nyx moved carefully through the deeper forest. Etherion's trees glowed faintly, and floating platforms marked the path ahead.
"This is where the first real test begins," Lunaria said, her drones scanning the area. "Other challengers are nearby. Some are stronger, some… more cunning."
Lin Feng nodded. "I'm ready. After surviving the first trial, nothing here should intimidate me."
Suddenly, the air shifted. A ripple of energy passed through the clearing. Lin Feng's instincts screamed that someone powerful was approaching.
A young man stepped out from behind a tree. His hair was dark, his eyes sharp, and he carried a weapon that shimmered with blue energy. The aura around him was strong, almost challenging Lin Feng directly.
"So, you must be the rookie champion," the stranger said, smirking. "Lin Feng, was it? I'm Kael. And I've been waiting to see how good you really are."
Lin Feng's eyes narrowed. "Kael… I'll give you a fair warning. I don't back down from any challenger."
Kael laughed, a low, confident sound. "Good. I like confidence. Let's see if you can survive the next trial… with me as your opponent."
Nyx stepped forward, her shadow energy flickering. "Lin Feng, remember teamwork. We cannot underestimate him."
Lunaria adjusted her drones. "Focus. Observe his abilities before you act. Etherion always rewards strategy over raw power."
Kael raised his weapon and charged. Energy crackled, and the air seemed to hum. Lin Feng's hands glowed as he blocked the first strike, feeling the sheer force of Kael's attack.
The clash sent sparks flying. Lin Feng dodged, countered, and used a combination of shield and energy bursts to maintain balance. Lunaria supported him with precise attacks from her drones, and Nyx disrupted Kael's momentum with shadow strikes.
The three of them moved like a single unit, combining instinct, skill, and coordination. Kael's attacks were relentless, but Lin Feng's experience from two past lives guided every decision.
Finally, after a series of calculated maneuvers, Kael stepped back, slightly impressed. "Not bad… Rookie champion. You may have more potential than I expected."
Lin Feng lowered his hands, breathing steadily. "If you want to test me, come prepared next time. I won't hold back."
Kael smiled, fading into the forest shadows. "I'll see you again, Lin Feng. The real trial is just beginning."
Lunaria turned to Lin Feng. "This was more than a challenge. He is a rival, and he will push you further than any trial we face alone."
Nyx's dark eyes flickered. "Good. I was starting to think this would be too easy. Let's see how far you can go, Lin Feng."
Lin Feng looked toward the horizon, feeling the surge of excitement and determination. Etherion was alive, filled with rivalries, challenges, and allies.
And he was ready to face every obstacle, grow stronger, and rise to the top.