The sentinel stepped back, its massive form barely fitting between the towering trees.
"The trial has three parts."
"Each will test a different aspect of your strength."
"Body. Mind. Spirit."
Kaelred nodded slowly, mentally preparing himself.
The sentinel's eyes glowed brighter.
"If you fail any part of the trial—"
"You will not leave this place."
A heavy silence hung in the air.
Kaelred swallowed hard.
"…Understood."
The sentinel raised a massive clawed hand and pointed toward the dense mist beyond.
"Step forward, Kaelred."
"Face the first trial."
"Face the Trial of the Body."
The moment Kaelred stepped forward, the world shifted.
The forest around him vanished, swallowed by an endless white void.
Then—
The first enemy appeared.
It was himself.
A perfect copy.
Same stance.
Same weapons.
Same cold determination in its eyes.
Kaelred's breath hitched.
Then—
His clone attacked.
Kaelred barely had time to block the first strike.
