A Time of Rest… and Planning
With the Phoenix Cry prodigies undergoing their trial, the trio had a rare moment of calm before the storm.
Seated atop a high pavilion overlooking the empire, Raikai, Shinryu, and Xue Mor discussed their thoughts on the Great Calamity—the ever-looming disaster that would shake the world.
Raikai leaned back against the wooden railing.
"The Great Calamity isn't just a battle—it's a purge. The weak die, and the strong survive. I have no plans of being among the weak."
Shinryu tapped his fingers on the table.
"It's a gamble. Those who prepare properly thrive, while those who hesitate are swallowed whole. Power isn't enough… we need foresight."
Xue Mor crossed her arms.
"We've already proven we can fight, but even the strongest warriors can fall if they don't adapt. We need to seek out places that will push us beyond our limits."
—
Where Will They Grow Stronger?
Raikai's Path – The Abyssal Thunder Plains
"There's an ancient battlefield where lightning never ceases. It's said the Azure Dragon Clan's ancestors fought there, leaving behind remnants of their power. If I can endure its storms, I might unlock something new."
Shinryu's Path – The Forgotten Gravity Well
"Deep in the mountains lies a ruin where gravity itself bends unnaturally. If I train there, I might learn to refine my control even further… maybe even push into a new realm of power."
Xue Mor's Path – The Venomous Frost Marsh
"There's a place where frozen poisons bloom naturally, untouched by civilization. If I can master those toxins and fuse them with my venom, my combat potential will rise dramatically."
Each of them had their ambitions, yet they all knew—the Death Nights would come first.
—
The Empire That Watches in the Shadows
While the trio planned, far beyond Phoenix Cry's borders, their enemies took notice.
The Obsidian Eclipse Empire, Phoenix Cry's closest rival, had spies scattered across the world. News of an alliance with both the Azure Dragon Clan and the Ancient White Tiger Clan had reached their ears.
In a grand, black-stone palace, a man in obsidian robes lined with silver sat upon a throne, a cold smile forming.
"So, Phoenix Cry has strengthened itself... interesting."
At his feet, a shadowed general knelt.
"Shall we act, Your Majesty?"
The emperor's eyes glowed like smoldering embers.
"Not yet. Let them believe they are safe. Let them prepare… it will make their downfall all the sweeter."
In the distant lands, unseen forces began to stir.
The Great Calamity would not wait.