Chapter 10: The Gathering Storm
The hall still hummed with excitement after the grand proclamation, but the true weight of the decision had yet to settle. Strength alone was not enough to survive the Death Nights, the legendary training ground of the Death Knights organization. Only the elite endured its trials.
To ensure their success, each prodigy was granted two additional lots—a chance to bring warriors they trusted. This was more than just an opportunity; it was a test of judgment, camaraderie, and foresight.
As warriors whispered among themselves, some stepping forward with confidence, others hesitating, the atmosphere grew tense. The chosen needed not only raw strength but also loyalty and the will to fight side by side in the unknown.
—
A Parting Gift and a Promise
With the selections complete, Torra Zhen turned to Shinryu, his golden eyes gleaming with something unreadable. "Before you leave for the Death Nights, return to the clan. I have a parting gift for you."
Shinryu raised an eyebrow but said nothing. When Torra Zhen spoke in riddles, the meaning always revealed itself in time. "I will return."
The White Tiger Patriarch clasped his shoulder once before leading his chosen prodigies back to the Ancient White Tiger Clan's domain.
On the other side, Shin Rai did the same, taking the warriors of the Azure Dragon Clan back with him. Before leaving, he cast a glance at Raikai, the flickering torches reflecting off his sharp eyes.
"Make sure you come back stronger. I expect nothing less."
Raikai smirked, cracking his knuckles. "You wouldn't expect anything else."
With that, the two great leaders departed, leaving behind only the trio who had started it all.
—
The Return to Phoenix Cry
Now, Xue Mor, Shinryu, Raikai, and her two guards rode east—the golden plains of the Phoenix Cry Empire stretching before them. The heat of the sun mirrored the intensity of their mission. They had secured the allegiance of the two mightiest independent clans, something that had never been done before.
The Phoenix Cry Empire would soon learn of Xue Mor's success.
As they rode, Xue Mor glanced at her two companions and smirked. "It's funny."
Shinryu turned his silver-haired head slightly. "What is?"
She stretched, leaning back slightly on her Sunfire Courser."The two of you have never met until now, and yet I've been friends with both of you since childhood."
Raikai scoffed. "Yeah, yeah. You're the bridge between us. Don't let it go to your head."
She laughed. "Oh, but I will."
Despite the teasing, there was an unspoken truth between them. In just a few days, they had already begun forging a bond in battle and respect.
But their journey was just beginning.
The Phoenix Cry Empire awaited them. The Death Nights loomed ahead. And somewhere, in the shadows of fate, their enemies stirred.