Chapter 5: The Trials Begin

Kael and Renn stood at the edge of a sprawling valley, gazing up at the towering silhouette of Elderspire. The sheer magnitude of the citadel was overwhelming, its spires piercing the heavens like ancient monoliths. Golden banners adorned its walls, each bearing the sigil of legendary warriors long past.

"So," Renn muttered, adjusting the grip on his daggers. "That's Elderspire. Bigger than I expected."

Kael remained silent, his mind still reeling from their battle with the wraiths. The sensation of their cold, grasping hands lingered in his memory. But there was no time to dwell. They had made it this far, and now the real test awaited.

A massive stone bridge led across the valley, connecting the outer grounds to the citadel's entrance. As they approached, figures emerged from the mist—warriors clad in ornate armor, their gazes sharp as they studied the newcomers.

One stepped forward, a towering figure clad in black and silver, a greatsword strapped across his back. "You have reached the gates of Elderspire," he announced. "But entry is not granted freely. If you seek passage, you must prove your worth in the Trials."

Renn raised an eyebrow. "Trials? We just fought through an army of wraiths to get here. Isn't that proof enough?"

The warrior's expression did not change. "Every soul that seeks entry must face the Trials. If you refuse, turn back now."

Kael tightened his grip on his Etherblade. There was no turning back. "We accept."

The warrior nodded. "Then step forward and face your first challenge."

The ground trembled as the massive gates of Elderspire creaked open, revealing an arena beyond. The space was lined with ethereal flames, their light casting eerie shadows. At the center stood a monstrous figure—a Revenant Knight, a remnant of warriors long past who had become something more than human.

Its armor was adorned with runes that pulsed with an ominous glow, its greatsword radiating sheer power. The moment Kael and Renn stepped into the arena, the Revenant Knight's hollow eyes flared to life. It let out a bone-chilling roar and charged forward.

Kael barely had time to react before the clash began. The Revenant moved with terrifying speed, its strikes heavy enough to crack the stone beneath their feet. Kael dodged, feeling the shockwave of the blade slicing past him. He countered, Etherblade flashing, but his strike barely dented the Revenant's armor.

"This thing's tough!" Renn called, darting to the side and hurling a pair of daggers. They struck true but barely left a scratch.

Kael gritted his teeth. He needed a new strategy. He closed his eyes for a split second, tapping into the Etherflow. The memories of past warriors whispered to him, guiding his movements.

When he opened them again, his stance shifted. He surged forward, dodging an incoming blow with unnatural precision. The Revenant hesitated for just a moment, and that was all Kael needed. He struck low, aiming for the gaps in its armor. Ether surged through his blade, enhancing the attack.

A crack echoed through the arena as the Revenant staggered. Renn seized the opportunity, leaping onto its back and driving a dagger into the gap between its shoulder plates. The Revenant roared, thrashing wildly, but Kael pressed the attack, delivering a final strike to its core.

The monster let out a deafening cry before collapsing into a heap of shattered armor and dissipating energy.

Silence fell over the arena.

Then, the warrior at the gate nodded approvingly. "You have passed the first Trial. Prepare yourselves—the next will not be so easy."

Kael exhaled heavily, his heart still pounding. He exchanged a glance with Renn, who gave a weary smirk.

They had won their first battle within Elderspire, but the real challenges were only beginning.