Chapter 10 - Chapter 10

The atmosphere crackled with intensity as the imposing figure stepped closer, his eyes boring into the Jun clan representatives. The crowd around them hushed, sensing the shifting energy."Are you ready to prove your worth?" the man taunted, crossing his arms. He was tall and broad-shouldered, with an unmistakable air of authority that made it clear he was no ordinary competitor.Jun Bai took a step forward, his voice steady. "What's your name, and what do you want from us? We aren't afraid of a little challenge.""A bold response for someone so young," the man replied, a sneer on his lips. "I am Chen Yu from the Royal Chen Clan. I'm just here to watch how the pretenders of the Jun clan handle themselves in a real trial, especially with your new reputation.""Watchers are often the first to run when things get tough," Jun Long said, a mischievous grin forming on his face. An elbow from Jun Yuan sent him a warning glance, reminding him to keep calm."Enough," Jun Xue'er interjected, stepping in front of her brother. Her voice was firm, yet calm. "We are here to take on the trials. If you've got something to say, say it when it matters—inside the realm."Chen Yu's smirk widened, intrigued by her spirit. "Very well. Let's see if you can keep that courage once you're in there. Good luck, you'll need it!" With that, he turned and sauntered back into the crowd, leaving behind an air of tension and unresolved conflict.The group exchanged wary glances, the encounter leaving them on edge. Jun Hao broke the silence. "Does it ever feel like the universe is conspiring against us?" he muttered, shaking his head."Only if you let it," Jun Long replied, undeterred. "Let's focus on what's ahead."The entrance to the realm loomed before them, a massive portal shimmering with ethereal light. With a shared determination, they stepped forward. The moment they walked through the threshold, an indescribable sensation washed over them—like stepping from one reality into another.The landscape unfolded into an otherworldly vista: rolling hills illuminated by a crimson sky, with strange flora glowing in hues of blue and green. The air was thick with spiritual energy, invigorating and intoxicating."Wow…" Jun Long breathed, eyes wide like a child in a candy store. "This place is incredible!""Focus," Jun Bai reminded him, scanning the horizon. "We need to stay vigilant."Just then, a booming voice resonated through the air, harsh and commanding. "Welcome to the Trials of the Spirit Realm! Prepare to face challenges that will test your mind, body, and will!"As the voice faded, the ground beneath them shook slightly, revealing four massive stone tablets that emerged from the earth. Each one was inscribed with an array of symbols, flickering ominously."Choose your trial wisely!" the voice warned. "Each path will shape your destiny!"The group huddled around the tablets, uncertainty etched on their faces. Each stone appeared to represent different challenges: one depicted a battlefield, another an intricate puzzle, a third swirled with elemental symbols, and the last showed a labyrinthine cave."What do you all think?" Jun Xue'er asked, biting her lip."Battles are what we train for, but…" Jun Yuan said, studying the puzzle tablet. "That could be a test of our intellect—a different kind of strength."Jun Bai's eyes flitted between the tablets. "I feel like the elemental trial could give us an opportunity to truly harness our abilities. We should go where our strengths lie."Jun Long, ever the eager one, nodded enthusiastically. "I'd love to see how powerful I can become! Let's go for the battle trial!"Worry flickered across Jun Xue'er's features. "But what if it's dangerous? We need to ensure we're all prepared to support each other.""Each trial will be challenging in its own right," Jun Hao offered. "But I agree with Long; a battle will sharpen our skills. We can always plan for the others afterward."Steeling her resolve, Jun Xue'er nodded, albeit reluctantly. "Alright, let's do this together. We'll face whatever comes—together."With a unified determination, they approached the battlefield tablet, energy surging in the air around them. As they placed their hands upon the stone, the inscriptions glowed brightly, and without warning, they were enveloped in blinding light.When the light faded, they found themselves standing on a vast expanse of battlefield, soaked in mist. The air was heavy with anticipation, foreshadowing a confrontation that awaited them.Before them emerged ghostly figures—specters of legendary warriors long past, their shining armors and fierce gazes indicating they were formidable opponents."Prepare yourselves!" one of the specters bellowed, brandishing a shimmering sword. "We shall determine if you are worthy of the power you seek!"The Jun clan members exchanged resolute looks, their hearts pounding with adrenaline."Remember," Jun Xue'er said, voice steady despite her nerves, "stay focused, and rely on each other!"As the specters advanced, the air filled with the sound of clashing steel and battle cries. The siblings stood their ground, side by side, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead."Let's show them what the Jun clan is made of!" Jun Long shouted, his fiery spirit igniting determination in their hearts.With a battle cry, the five geniuses charged forward, united in purpose, their bravery igniting a fierce light in the encroaching shadows. This was their moment to prove themselves—not just to the specters, but to each other and their ancestry that thrummed within their veins.In the heart of the Spirit Realm, their true trials had just begun.