Chapter 37: The Flames of Rebirth

Li Feng gasped as he awoke—except he wasn't truly awake.

Around him, flames continued to dance, and multiple versions of himself stood in a circle—reflections of different paths he could take. One was a conqueror, draped in golden armor, his eyes filled with ruthless ambition. Another was a wandering warrior, scarred and alone. The last was barely recognizable—a monstrous version of himself, his form twisted by unchecked power.

The Phoenix Guardian materialized before him, its fiery form towering. "Choose," it commanded. "What kind of warrior will you become?"

Li Feng's heart pounded. Was there truly a right answer?

The conqueror spoke first. "Power brings order. If you do not take control, others will."

The wanderer shook his head. "Power must be tempered with restraint, or it destroys all you hold dear."

The monstrous version let out a low, guttural laugh. "You are already doomed. The ring is part of you. Sooner or later, you will become me."

Li Feng clenched his jaw. The Coiled Dragon Ring pulsed, resonating with the temple's energy. The flames grew hotter, pushing him toward a decision.

No.

He wouldn't become any of them. He wouldn't choose power for domination, nor would he flee from responsibility. He would forge his own path.

"I am Li Feng, and I decide my fate!"

He stretched out his hand, and the flames surged toward him—but instead of burning him away, they merged. At the heart of the temple, the Flame Lotus began to glow, drawn toward him.

Instead of being destroyed, it fused with the Coiled Dragon Ring. The flames carved a burning sigil into his palm—a Phoenix sigil, pulsing with both destruction and rebirth.

The Phoenix Guardian watched, its ember eyes flickering. "You have chosen a path between destruction and salvation. Be warned: You are now bound to both the Dragon and the Phoenix. Their war will rage within you, and your choices will shape their final battle."

As the trial ended, Li Feng felt his energy drain away. The weight of what had happened crashed down on him.

The last thing he heard before darkness overtook him was Mei Lian calling his name.

Then—

Everything faded to black.