Chapter 22: The Gathering Storm

A Fresh Intention

Anticipation filled the air as Derek, Emma, Lila, and Kai walked toward the next world. It felt like the world itself was alerting them to the difficulties ahead with each step. Derek's mind was plagued by the images he had seen, but they also made him more determined. Neither of those possibilities, peaceful or gloomy, could control him. He needed to forge his own way.

Emma glanced at the map that was floating above her palm and remarked, "We're getting close to the Realm of Trials." Cultivators come here to push themselves to the limit. It's stated that only the most resilient people survive."

Kai smiled, joy shining in his eyes. "That seems like a good time! Let's see if the excitement surrounding these cases is justified.

But Lila was more watchful. "We must remain concentrated. If this is as hazardous as the tales claim, one incorrect move can have disastrous consequences."

Derek said nothing, his thoughts returning to the visions. He was aware that for everyone of them, the Realm of Trials would mark a crucial turning point. Every decision they made would either pull them toward or away from the black tide. But what if there was more to the trials than just brute force or skill? What if they conducted a more thorough test?

The Trial Realm

The company arrived at the Realm of Trials' gate after several hours of travel. Encased in ancient runs that gave off a subtle glow in the twilight light, the archway stood tall and was composed of a shimmering stone. Past the arch, the heavens were a rich violet with lightning streaks that broke through the clouds.

At the doorway stood a figure, a kind of sentinel, dressed in robes that appeared to change color with each blink.

"Entry is restricted to individuals who are in search of their inner truth," the guardian declared, his voice resonating strangely. "Once you cross the threshold, the trials will begin, and there is no turning back."

Derek moved forward and looked up into the guardian's eyes. "We're ready."

With a nod, the guardian moved aside to allow them to pass.

The world around them warped and blurred as they passed the boundary, drawing them into an area that appeared to defy reality. The earth turned into a reflecting surface beneath their feet, while the heavens above alternated between peaceful scenery and pandemonium.

Lila muttered, "This place is... unreal," her eyes wide at the bizarre scenery.

Kai laughed and whirled around. We seem to be in a dream, in my opinion. or even a bad dream!"

Derek sensed something more, though. The Realm of Trials was more than simply a geographical location; it was a mirror of their inner selves. Inside was where the real difficulty was.

The Initial Trial: Facing the Past

Suddenly the floor gave way and they were all cast apart, each into a far corner of the realm. Derek landed on a calm field, standing up. The sun was shining softly, and the sky was serene. At first, everything appeared calm, but then he noticed a well-known person far in the distance.

It was the earlier version of him he had acquired the system prior to all the changes.

"What's going on?" Heaving a sigh, Derek turned to face his former self.

Derek, the younger, glanced up, his expression contorted with annoyance. "Don't you think you're so amazing now? Just because you are capable of fighting and have power. However, what about the individuals you've abandoned? The items you have given up."

Derek confusedly blinked. "I didn't abandon anyone. My goal is to keep everyone safe.

His younger self fired back, "Are you?" Or are you only seeking power for its own sake? What became of Derek, who was concerned with the little things in life, like friends and family?"

Derek felt a wave of wrath and balled his fists. "I still remember all of that! I can't simply sit, though, go back and take no action. I need to have the strength to fend off what's approaching."

The child inside of him gave a dejected shake of his head. "And you're losing yourself in the process. turning into the person you never wanted to be."

Emma's Quest: Dealing with Doubt

Emma, meanwhile, discovered herself standing amid tall trees in a deep forest. She could only see a few feet ahead of her due to the dense fog in the air.

Her own voice, tinged with doubt, suddenly resonated through the mist.

Are you genuinely suited for this? When it's time, will you really be there for Derek? You're not as swift, powerful, or strong as him."

Emma felt the words sink in, her heart racing. She had always been burdened by the need to keep up with Derek's development. However, until today, she had never expressed her misgivings.

She said, "I'm not weak," attempting to push the horror from her thoughts.

The voice chuckled. However, you also lack sufficient strength. Derek will eventually leave you behind and you will just exist in memory."

Emma felt tears spring up in her eyes and her hands stiffen. "I refuse to allow it to occur. I'm not merely a follower; I have strength of my own."

Kai's Struggle: Fighting Ego

Kai awoke to find himself in front of boisterous spectators in an arena. He was the star of the show, the center of attention. He smiled, enjoying the ovation. But as he upon closer inspection, he saw that something was off. Instead of supporting him, the faces in the audience were making fun of him.

"You think you're the best, don't you?" Something came from the stands. "Always making jokes and behaving as though nothing bothers you. However, you know deep down that you're not as powerful as you appear to be."

Kai's smile wavered. "I'm not acting. I truly am the genuine deal.

The voice mocked. "On the surface, perhaps. But will you be able to take charge when it's time? Or will the strain cause you to break?"

Kai felt his heart race in his chest. He had consistently exuded confidence and self-assurance. But now that he was in the center of the stadium and hundreds of people were watching him, he sensed something—fear—that he hadn't felt in a long time.

Lila's Quest: Accepting Your Vulnerability

Lila stood by herself in an empty, dark room. She was alone with her thoughts, with no light or sound in the room.

"You've consistently been the composed and logical one," a hushed voice said out of the shadows. "However, what occurs when circumstances get out of hand? when you're unable to solve an issue using logic?"

Lila's heart pounded. She had always taken great satisfaction in her ability to maintain composure and make clear analyses of circumstances. But now that she was left with nothing but doubt, she felt exposed.

The voice went on, "You've never allowed yourself to truly feel, to embrace your own emotions." "And that will be your downfall."

Lila tightened her jaw, fighting the urge to succumb to the horror. "You underestimate my strength. To achieve, I don't have to let my feelings control me."

The trials went on, with each of them facing their own inner demons and being forced to face fears and doubts they had long since buried. The Realm of Trials was harsh, yet as they persevered, a change occurred inside each of them.

They were a team now, united by unspoken understanding and shared difficulties, not simply four people forced together by fate.

A Novel Link

The morning had risen, illuminating the horizon with a golden hue as they at last emerged from the trials. Though they were worn out, something seemed different. They had developed a new, stronger kinship that was indescribable.

Derek took in his pals' and his pride filling my heart. "We made it."

Kai nodded, his face soaked with exertion but still smiling. "We did, of course. We can't be stopped."

Emma gave a kind grin, resolve shining in her eyes. "This is only the start. For whatever happens next, we're prepared."

Lila, who was always cool and composed, just touched Derek's shoulder. "Let's keep moving forward."

With that, they departed again, this time more unified and powerful than before.

Note from the Author:

The personal struggles that each of the main characters must endure are covered in depth in Chapter 22 of Universal Ascension: The Path of the Outlier. They develop as a group and as individuals when they face their greatest uncertainties and concerns. The Realm of Trials represents a pivotal moment in history one that will equip them for the more difficult tasks that lay ahead on their trip. As the gang continues their trek, stay tuned for the next installment!