As they moved deeper into the forest, the stranger began speaking of the chaotic forces governing the secret realm. His words flowed easily, revealing ancient truths about the place and the power that lay buried within.
"Chaos isn't just a force here," the man explained. "It's alive, and it's watching. Everything you've faced—the illusions, the trials—those are merely fragments of its will."
Feng Lin listened intently, but part of him remained skeptical. "And how do you know all of this?"
The man's lips curled into a mysterious smile. "I've been here before, long ago. Before the realm's current form took shape."
Before Feng Lin could question further, the trees parted to reveal an enormous altar at the heart of a massive clearing. The structure pulsed with chaotic energy, its presence dominating the surroundings. The air around it shimmered with power, thick with a sense of foreboding.
Feng Lin's hand instinctively moved toward his Chaos Rune Sword, the artifact thrumming with energy.
"This is what you seek," the man said, gesturing toward the altar. "But be warned. Once you approach it, the realm will test you once more. And this time, it won't be just your mind on the line."
[System Notification: New Objective Unlocked – Reach the Core of the Altar]
[Rewards: Chaos Insight, 10,000 EXP, ???]
Feng Lin's pulse quickened. The power radiating from the altar was unlike anything he had encountered so far. It called to him, beckoning with promises of untold strength. But the system's warning echoed in his mind—this wouldn't be an easy task.
Before he could step forward, the stranger placed a hand on his shoulder. "Remember, Feng Lin. Chaos doesn't give without taking. Be prepared."
Feng Lin shrugged off the man's hand and advanced toward the altar. Whatever lay ahead, he would face it head-on.
As Feng Lin approached the altar, a sudden surge of chaotic energy erupted from it, filling the air with violent tremors. The ground cracked beneath him, and the sky darkened, as if the entire realm responded to his presence.
[System Notification: New Trial Activated – Chaos Awakening]
[Objective: Survive the Chaos Altar's Awakening. Failure will result in death.]
[Rewards: Chaos Core, Advanced Chaos Manipulation, ???]
Feng Lin felt the weight of the trial settle on his shoulders. His Qi flared, reacting to the intense pressure as chaotic forces swirled around him. The stranger stood at a distance, watching but making no move to interfere.
Feng Lin gritted his teeth and activated his skills.
[Skill Activated: Chaos Manipulation – Lv 2]
The energy surged through him, responding to his will as he directed it toward the altar. But the power was overwhelming, far more intense than he had anticipated. Sweat poured down his face as he struggled to maintain control.
The ground beneath the altar began to shift, revealing intricate runes that glowed with ancient power. Feng Lin's spirit strained under the force, but he refused to back down. This was the key to the realm, and he wouldn't let it slip away.
Suddenly, a voice echoed from within the altar—deep, resonant, and filled with authority.
"Prove your worth, mortal. Only those who command chaos may claim its power."
Feng Lin's eyes widened as a figure began to emerge from the altar. A being of pure chaos, its form shifting and unstable, stood before him, radiating an aura of absolute power.
The trial had begun.