Feng Lin's surroundings shifted once again as the eerie silence of the mind trial faded. The oppressive atmosphere that had weighed heavily on his mind finally lifted. His body felt lighter, and his spirit, sharpened by the test, surged with new strength. The system notification chimed as a comforting reminder of his progress.
[System Notification: Mental Fortification (Level 2) Acquired]
Feng Lin exhaled, feeling the cold sweat on his brow. The trial had been relentless, pushing him to confront his deepest fears. But in overcoming them, he had become stronger. He could feel the changes settling within him, both physically and mentally.
His gaze traveled to his Chaos Rune Sword. The weapon pulsed with chaotic energy, resonating with the new power he had gained. In his hands, it felt more responsive, more attuned to his will.
Suddenly, a voice echoed through the trees. "So, you survived it."
Turning swiftly, Feng Lin spotted a figure approaching from the shadows. It was a man with gray robes, his eyes glowing faintly. The stranger's aura was neither hostile nor friendly, but something about his presence set Feng Lin on edge.
"I see you've made it through the mind trials," the man continued his voice soft but carrying weight. "Not many can boast such resilience."
Feng Lin remained cautious. "And who are you?"
The man smiled slightly, his gaze lingering on Feng Lin's Chaos Rune Sword. "Just someone observing from the sidelines. But now that you've completed the trial, there's no point in hiding."
The figure stepped closer, and Feng Lin's grip on his sword tightened, but the system's voice cut through his thoughts.
[System Notification: New Quest Available]
[Objective: Investigate the stranger's identity and intentions. Rewards: 5,000 EXP, Minor Chaos Artifact]
Feng Lin's mind raced. The stranger's sudden appearance was too coincidental, but the system's alert made it clear this was more than a chance encounter.
"I'm not interested in playing games," Feng Lin said, his eyes narrowing. "State your purpose, or I'll cut you down."
The stranger's smile widened, but there was no malice in his expression. "You misunderstand. I have no intention of fighting you, but I do have information—valuable information. About this realm, and the chaos it hides."
Feng Lin's curiosity piqued. "Speak then."
The man's expression darkened slightly as he continued. "The core of the secret realm isn't just a test of strength or will. It's a gateway—a path leading to something far more dangerous. Chaos itself thrives in this place, and if you intend to survive, you'll need more than just power."
Feng Lin remained silent, processing the words. There was truth in them; the secret realm had felt like more than just an ancient test. It pulsed with something deeper, something primal. The chaos here wasn't random—it had intent.
"And why should I trust you?" Feng Lin asked.
The man shrugged. "You shouldn't. But if you want to survive the next phase, you'll need what I know. The rest is up to you."
Feng Lin frowned, sensing no deception from the stranger, but that didn't mean he would let his guard down.
[System Notification: Accept or Decline Quest]
Feng Lin didn't hesitate. He needed every advantage he could get in this realm, especially if what the man said was true.
[Quest Accepted: Investigate the stranger's identity.]
"Fine," Feng Lin said, lowering his sword slightly. "You can talk. But if you try anything, I'll end you."
The man chuckled lightly. "Fair enough."