A week after the birth of the Void Legion, whispers of a mysterious discovery began circulating across the Imperial Talent Academy.
An ancient ruin had emerged.
It appeared without warning, rising from the earth after a violent mana quake near the borders of the Aurelion Empire. Scholars, nobles, and adventurers alike were drawn to it, each seeking forgotten treasures and lost knowledge.
But beneath the allure of riches lay a far greater secret.
And destiny was calling Lucian Voidheart once more.
The Emergence of the Forgotten Realm
The Grand Hall buzzed with anticipation as Archmage Valerius Dawnstar addressed the gathered students.
"A previously sealed pocket dimension has revealed itself," he announced gravely. "Preliminary analysis suggests it predates the current age of recorded history. This Secret Realm is believed to contain relics from the Primordial Era."
A wave of excitement swept through the crowd.
"Ancient relics?!"
"Primordial treasures!"
"Even a fragment could change one's destiny!"
Valerius raised his staff, restoring order.
"Due to its instability, only elite students will be permitted to enter. Participation in this expedition will earn imperial recognition and extraordinary rewards."
His gaze settled on Arcanis Vale.
"Arcanis, your presence is required."
Arcanis inclined his head respectfully. "It would be my honor, Archmage."
Across the hall, Darius Ravencrest watched silently, determination burning in his eyes.
"This time," he muttered, "I will not be overshadowed."
A Sovereign's Strategy
Later that evening, Lucian convened with his allies within a hidden chamber beneath the academy.
Selene leaned against a pillar, her golden eyes gleaming. "Ancient ruins are never simple. Expect traps—and worse."
Aeloria nodded. "Such realms often test worthiness. Only those chosen by fate can claim their treasures."
Lyra smirked, folding her fiery wings. "If danger awaits, all the better. I have grown bored."
Lucian turned to his clones.
"This expedition is an opportunity we cannot ignore. We must claim whatever lies within before our enemies do."
The Arcane Clone spoke calmly. "I will represent us within the academy."
The Void Clone added, "I will remain hidden within the shadows, eliminating threats and gathering resources."
The Warlord Clone nodded. "Meanwhile, I will strengthen the Void Legion and secure our growing influence."
Lucian smiled.
"Perfect. We move as one—even when we stand apart."
The system flickered to life before him.
[Infinite Clone System Notification]
Mission Detected: Exploration of the Primordial Secret Realm
Objective: Secure Ancient Relics
Difficulty: High
Rewards: Unknown Artifacts, Lost Techniques, Primordial Bloodlines
Special Condition: Hidden Sovereign Legacy Detected
Lucian's eyes gleamed.
"A hidden legacy… Perhaps fate has been waiting for me all along."
The Gate to Antiquity
Days later, the expedition arrived at a desolate valley where a colossal stone archway towered above the land. Intricate runes glowed faintly along its surface, radiating an aura of immeasurable age.
At its center swirled a portal of golden light.
"This… is the entrance," whispered a scholar in awe.
As Arcanis approached, the air trembled. His presence resonated with the ancient magic, causing the runes to shimmer more brightly.
Aeloria's eyes widened. "It reacts to you."
Selene smirked. "How intriguing."
Lyra crossed her arms. "Let's hope it leads to treasure worthy of a dragon's interest."
Archmage Valerius raised his staff.
"The expedition begins now. Enter with caution—and return with glory."
One by one, the students stepped through the portal.
When Arcanis crossed the threshold, the world dissolved into radiant light.
The Primordial Sanctuary
He emerged into a breathtaking realm.
Golden skies stretched endlessly overhead, and floating islands drifted through a sea of clouds. Ancient temples stood in ruins, their broken pillars whispering tales of a forgotten civilization.
Rivers of luminous energy flowed like veins across the land.
"This is… magnificent," Aeloria breathed.
Selene's gaze sharpened. "And dangerous."
Lyra smirked. "I like it already."
Suddenly, the system interface appeared before Lucian.
[System Notification]
Primordial Realm Detected
Hidden Trial Activated
Sovereign Compatibility: Confirmed
Reward: Access to the Legacy of the Primordial Emperor
Lucian's heart pounded.
"The Primordial Emperor…"
Before he could react, a beam of golden light descended upon Arcanis, enveloping him completely.
A thunderous voice echoed across the realm.
"He who seeks my legacy must prove his worth."
The ground trembled as colossal stone guardians rose from the ruins, their eyes blazing with ancient power.
"Defeat my guardians… and claim the throne of eternity."
A Trial Begins
Arcanis's cerulean eyes glowed with determination.
"So begins the trial."
Aeloria drew her bow, moonlight gathering at its tip.
Selene ignited her abyssal flames.
Lyra's wings erupted in blazing fire.
"Let them come," the dragon princess declared.
Arcanis raised his hand, runes spiraling into existence.
"Stand ready. This legacy will belong to us."
Far beyond the trial's entrance, hidden from all eyes, a colossal shadow stirred beneath the ancient ruins—an entity sealed since the dawn of time.
Its crimson eyes opened slowly.
"A Sovereign has arrived…"