Volume 36 — The Trial of Mastery
The chamber glowed softly as Lin Feng's newfound power from the first ancient secret coursed through him. Petals of the First Bloom spun in a refined, precise storm, their movement perfectly synchronized with the palace's energy.
Caiyi glanced at him, concern in her eyes. "Lin Feng… the energy is incredible, but I can sense it's also testing you. Are you ready?"
Lin Feng's gaze was sharp, unwavering. "I don't just feel the power—it's teaching me. The palace isn't giving it away freely. This trial… it's to see if I can truly master what I've gained."
Host, the Peach Spirit whispered, the first secret amplifies body, mind, and spirit—but it also reveals weaknesses. This trial will push you to your limits. Only by harmonizing every aspect of yourself with the palace can you succeed.
Suddenly, the chamber shifted. Crystalline walls rose and fell, energy currents swirling violently. Shadows materialized, forming ethereal warriors and beasts that mirrored Lin Feng's every move. It was a test not of brute strength, but of perception, precision, and coordination.
Caiyi leapt forward, matching his pace. "This isn't just a fight—it's a dance. You have to anticipate, not just react!"
Lin Feng's petals flared as he moved with the palace's flow. Each strike, each spiral, each defensive arc harmonized perfectly, dismantling the spectral warriors without wasting a single motion. The First Bloom adapted, petals splitting and weaving through the labyrinthine energy currents, responding instinctively to every shift in the chamber.
Sweat beaded on his forehead, but Lin Feng's focus never wavered. Peach Spirit… guide me. Let the palace and I move as one.
Finally, after relentless motion, the energy currents stilled, and the spectral constructs dissolved. The chamber glowed warmly, and the orb from which he had drawn the secret pulsed in approval. Lin Feng felt the first secret settle deep within him, integrating with his cultivation and enhancing his connection to the palace.
Caiyi's eyes shone with admiration. "You did it… you passed the trial."
Lin Feng exhaled, petals spinning steadily. "It's not just me. The palace, the First Bloom, and all of us together… that's the real mastery."
The first ancient secret had been unlocked and fully integrated, but Lin Feng knew there were more secrets and trials ahead—each one promising greater power and deeper challenges.