As the echo of ancient energy faded into the darkness, a pulse radiated from the far end of the cavern. Ethan and Elena turned, their eyes locking on a shifting wall of mist that hadn't been there before.
The mist parted slowly, revealing a golden gateway etched with celestial runes. Above it, a blazing inscription hovered:
Only the worthy may grasp what the heavens left behind.
Without hesitation, Ethan stepped forward. The moment his hand touched the gate, the entire cavern shuddered. Symbols flared to life, and both he and Elena were pulled into a swirling vortex of light.
They landed in a new space a vast ethereal arena floating in the void. Stars drifted in every direction, and a towering figure clad in spectral robes stood waiting.
I am the Remnant Soul of Immortal Veyros, the figure intoned. To claim my legacy, you must prove your soul and blade.
The air thickened. With a motion of his hand, three illusionary warriors formed each a projection of a powerful cultivator from different realms: flame, wind, and void.
The first one attacked.
Flames roared as the warrior launched a barrage of molten spears. Ethan evaded with Frostwind Steps, unleashing a flurry of cold blades from his sword to clash against the heat. He struck swiftly, breaking the illusion.
The second came in a flash, wind slicing like razors. Elena joined in, her speed keeping pace with the foe. Together, they dismantled it with precision.
The third, cloaked in void energy, moved silently. Ethan was nearly struck down until he instinctively reached for the legacy within his core.
A golden symbol surged from his chest. For a moment, Ethan moved like lightning and shadow fused. His strike cleaved the void warrior in half.
The spectral figure observed silently.
You have inherited a fragment of my power, it said, stepping forward. A golden brand flared on Ethan's back. But your cultivation is insufficient. You cannot wield my full legacy yet.
Ethan bowed his head,
I understand.
You may call upon this power three times only, until you ascend further. Use it wisely.
With that, the realm collapsed around them.
They awoke back in the cave.
Elena sat up first.
Did that really happen?
Ethan rose, his aura subtly changed.
Yes. And now I carry something that can shift the tide of battle. But only at a cost.
The golden brand shimmered faintly through his robes, pulsing in sync with his heartbeat.
Outside, thunder cracked across the mountains.
But something far more dangerous than storms was approaching.