Lin Feng stepped forward on the glowing grass, feeling the faint hum of energy under his feet. Etherion was alive. Every leaf, every floating rock, every distant light seemed to pulse with life and magic.
He needed allies. He could not conquer this world alone.
From the distance, the rustle of wings and a faint mechanical whirring reached his ears. Turning toward the sound, he saw a figure descending from the sky.
A young woman floated gracefully, riding a silver, drone-like platform that emitted soft lights. Her hair was pale silver, flowing as if touched by the wind itself, and her eyes sparkled with intelligence and curiosity.
"You must be the rookie champion," she said calmly, her voice melodic yet firm. "I am Lunaria. I handle engineering and tactical support. And it seems… I will be traveling with you."
Lin Feng studied her carefully. She did not seem like an ordinary elf; mechanical devices hummed along her arms, and the subtle glow in her hands suggested she could manipulate energy.
"I am Lin Feng," he replied. "I appreciate your help. I am looking to master Etherion, and I cannot do it alone."
Lunaria smiled faintly. "Good. I choose my companions carefully. You survived two lives, yes? I can see it in your aura."
Her words were accurate. Lin Feng felt a strange sense of trust forming. Perhaps it was instinct, or perhaps it was the subtle recognition of two worlds' worth of experience in him.
"You will need training," she continued. "The first trial is coming soon, and Etherion rewards preparation as much as courage."
Lin Feng nodded. "Then let's begin. Show me this world, and we will rise together."
Lunaria's smile widened, though her eyes remained focused. "Very well. Rookie champion. Follow me, and learn. Only then will you understand what it truly means to survive and conquer Etherion."
As they walked through the crystal-lit forest, Lin Feng noticed faint energy sigils etched into the trees. Floating orbs moved silently above them, observing, measuring, calculating.
This world was alive. Every element was a test. Every step could be a challenge.
And this time, Lin Feng would not fail.