Chapter 109: The hearts trial

Chapter 109: The Heart's Trial

An unearthly illumination spread throughout the chamber as it illuminated all of Natasha and Alison along with the rest of their team. As they approached the giant crystal entity the Heart of Light displayed its active core which generated powerful energy. Ira walked around the Heart of Light while her hands followed the old inscriptions on its base.

The power source held more than its basic function according to Ira. The Heart demonstrates awareness as well as restrictive rules.

"Conditions?" His voice created an echo through the chamber as Dren asked his question.

Ira nodded, her expression tense. The engraved symbols show that the Heart of Light exists to defend equilibrium rather than bestow endless power to any single faction. The device requires proof of worthiness from its users for activation. And we'll be tested."

After performing the ritual Natasha approached the Heart although she appeared exhausted from the recent spiritual ordeal. "What kind of test?"

A powerful resonance emerged from the Heart when its emblazoned with light as it spoke with a deep unearthly voice.

Those who grasp the meanings of unity alongside sacrifice and truth alone qualify to harness my power. Your determination will be evaluated through the test. Step forward now.

The earth under their feet vibrated as the walls of crystal started to reflect light. Natasha stopped Alison when she attempted to touch the blade as she stepped forward.

"This is what we came here for," she said. She directed her words to the group while saying, "Keep your distance." The operation seems dangerous so I refuse to expose others to harm.

Alison grabbed her arm. "You're not doing this alone."

A brief expression of appreciation appeared in her eyes as she looked at him. "Then we do this together."

The rest of the team held back while Ira took the initiative to speak. Leadership positions demand this responsibility from their holders rather than their soldiers. According to Ira the Heart evaluates only individuals who have an impact on the result of this war.

A silent communication passed between Natasha and Alison before they approached together. When they entered the region near the Heart the illumination grew stronger and transformed into an intense white brilliance that enclosed them.

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The Trial of Unity

The light disappeared to reveal an enormous deserted plain in front of Natasha and Alison. A violent battle played between gold and black colors blotted the sky like conflicting forces.

"What is this place?" His voice became subdued by the unnerving quietness as Alison asked the question.

The voice from the Heart addressed them again before Natasha could respond.

"You face the Trial of Unity. Alone, you will fail. Together, you may succeed. Unity surpasses basic physical coexistence because it requires complete trust together with comprehensive understanding followed by mutual sacrifice. Prove your bond."

The ground started to move below them as dark figures emerged from beneath the earth. At their initial appearance the figures were shapeless yet they assumed recognizable forms which revealed the faces of people from their past.

Alison gasped when one of the figures transformed into his father who had constantly disapproved of his decisions. "You abandoned us," the figure said, its voice a haunting echo of memory. "You left your family for a cause that will consume you."

The figure before Natasha transformed into a spectral version of her departed younger sister who had remained trapped in the distant memories of the past. "You promised to protect me," the figure said, tears streaming down its face. 

Additional voices from the figures amplified their accusations against Alison and Natasha.

Natasha told Alison to ignore the figures as they were not actual threats. "Don't listen to them."

The voice of Alison's father made him pause even though it struck harder than a knife. He asked himself aloud if the figures telling him lies could possibly speak the truth. He asked "How could our beliefs be false?".

She looked him directly in the eyes with her burning stare. "They're not right. You are present because you put your faith in something greater than your individual self. And so am I."

The dark figures came forward then turned into weaponized beings. Natasha and Alison used their combined combat skills as if they had practiced this routine many times before. Despite killing many shadows they appeared endlessly.

"Fighting isn't enough!" Natasha shouted. "We have to find another way."

Through their strong alliance from warfare and struggle Natasha held her friend's hand and concentrated. "Trust me," she said.

After thinking for a few seconds Alison gave her consent. "I trust you."

The ground below them lit up as shadows retreated from their position. The voice responded with a positive tone.

A group strengthens when it survives conflicts instead of when it experiences none. The darkness has ended and you complete the initial test.

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The Trial of Sacrifice

They entered a forest with glowing trees when the plain disappeared around them. The two daggers balanced on a pedestal in the center of an open space.

To earn power requires surrendering it. Decide which person will endure the weight and which one will suffer damage.

The two girls stepped toward the platform showing only serious features on their faces.

"This is a trap," Alison said. The situation aims to create conflicts between us.