Chapter 38: The Storm Before the Collapse

As the rumors of Lucian Valcrest's supposed ties to the Devil's Successor spread like wildfire, the Chosen Ones—who were meant to be the world's heroes—fell into paranoia and hiding. The balance of power had begun to shift, and Lucian knew it was the perfect time to strike.

Scene 1: Gathering of the Chosen Ones

The major factions secretly convened within an ancient fortress hidden in the Northern Ice Peaks, a place untouched by time. The Chosen Ones, including Xavier Starfall, Arden Blazehart, and Seraphina Moonveil, discussed their next move.

"If we let this continue, we'll be hunted before we can even fulfill our destinies!" Xavier slammed his fist against the stone table.

"But who is behind these rumors? Who has the power to manipulate the world like this?" Seraphina's voice carried an eerie calm, but her golden eyes flickered with uncertainty.

Unbeknownst to them, Lucian watched from the shadows, his lips curled into a knowing smirk.

Scene 2: Lucian's Next Move

Back in Valcrest Manor, Lucian stood before his Villain System's interface, considering his next step.

[Mission: Fracture the Chosen Ones' Unity]

Status: In Progress

Reward: Divine Artifact – [Celestial Void Mirror]

Villain Points Earned: +3,000

"The more they suspect each other, the easier it is to control the board." Lucian muttered.

He activated an anonymous communication talisman, sending fake orders to different factions, framing the Holy Light Sect as the true mastermind behind the Devil's Successor rumors.

Scene 3: The First Betrayal

The very next day, blood was spilled in the sacred halls of the Holy Light Sect as an ambush from the Azure Dragon Clan resulted in dozens of slain elders.

"No... this isn't possible... someone tricked us!" The Holy Light Sect leader gasped before his head rolled from his shoulders.

The world watched in horror as the Chosen Ones turned against each other, their alliance crumbling from the inside.

Scene 4: The System's Reward

As Lucian watched the chaos unfold from the Valcrest family's sky fortress, a golden light erupted from his system.

[Mission Completed]

New Reward Unlocked: Celestial Void Mirror – Capable of absorbing divine techniques and reflecting them back at double power.

Lucian laughed softly, eyes glowing with dark amusement.

"One step closer to ruling this world."

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