Kent followed the old tattooed sage, Konan, through the dense forest, the towering trees casting elongated shadows under the dim light of a dying suns.
The forest felt alive, every rustle of leaves and chirp of insects adding to its mystique.
Konan led the way, his ancient staff glowing faintly, runes on its surface pulsing softly with a rhythm that seemed to resonate with the forest itself.
Behind them, Kent’s companions moved in a quiet procession—Ruby, the Phoenix Lady, flew above like a scout; Kavi, the Fire Kirin, walked with an air of defiance; and Simon, the disgraced mage, stumbled, dragged along by Jabil.
“The path to the Eternal Sages is not an easy one,” Konan said, his voice breaking the silence. “The forest tests those who dare traverse it. In my presence you don’t need to worry about that.”
Kent offered a faint smile but said nothing, his eyes scanning the surroundings.
They hadn’t gone far when the first trial presented itself. A bear-like beast with six muscular limbs emerged from the thick bush, its glowing yellow eyes fixed on the group. It snarled, saliva dripping from its jagged teeth, its growl reverberating through the air.
“Step aside, old sage,” Fire Kirin Kavi said, her fiery mane igniting as she pawed the ground.
Konan raised his hand, halting the Kirin’s eagerness. “No need for violence, young one.” He tapped his staff against the ground, and a wave of calm energy radiated outward. The beast hesitated, its aggression melting away. With a huff, it retreated into the shadows.
Ruby cocked her head. “Not bad for an old sage.”
Konan chuckled. “Even the most ferocious beings respect balance and peace when shown the way.”
The journey continued, the forest thickening as the hours passed. The undergrowth clawed at their legs, and the distant cries of unseen creatures echoed ominously. Then, without warning, the earth shook. A massive figure loomed ahead, blocking the path—a demoness the size of a mountain. Her skin was mottled gray, her hair a tangled mess of writhing snakes, and her glowing red eyes narrowed as she spotted the group.
“That’s Ambala,” Konan whispered, clutching his staff tightly. “A demoness who has plagued this realm for centuries. She’s devoured countless innocents. Warrior, this is your trial.”
Ambala’s voice boomed, her laugh shaking the trees. “Fools, you dare tread on my land? Prepare to be crushed!”
Kent stepped forward, unfazed by the towering demoness. With a flick, the dragon lion bow appeared in his hand and in the blink of an eye, Kent prepared a powerful organic flame arrow spell. He drew a single arrow, golden energy crackling along its shaft. The air around him seemed to vibrate with the sheer force of his mana.
Ambala raised her massive arm, ready to swipe at them, but Kent loosed the arrow before she could move. The projectile streaked through the air, a blazing comet that pierced her chest with a deafening explosion. The demoness let out a guttural cry before crumbling into ash, her massive form disintegrating into nothingness within mere minutes.
Konan stared, his mouth agape. “One arrow…” he whispered. “Truly, your power is beyond measure. Mighty be close to a Demi-god.”
Kent shrugged. “Let’s keep moving.”
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The forest seemed to sense their determination, offering no further resistance. Smaller threats were easily evaded, either by Konan’s calming presence or by Kent’s sheer force. By the time the sun dipped below the horizon, they reached the edge of the forest, stepping into a clearing bathed in moonlight.
Before them lay a serene expanse, unlike anything Kent had ever seen. The forest gave way to a lush valley where natural huts were arranged in perfect harmony. Streams of crystal-clear water wove between them, and the air was filled with the sound of chants—an otherworldly melody that resonated deep within the soul. Animals of opposing natures—wolves and deer, lions and gazelles—played together without fear. The sight was so peaceful, so alien, that even Kavi paused to take it in.
“This is the Sanctuary of 7 Eternal Sages,” Konan said, his voice reverent. “A place where balance reigns supreme, untouched by the chaos of the outside world.”
They walked through the sanctuary, drawing the attention of its inhabitants. Dozens of yogic sages sat in lotus positions, their bodies glowing faintly as they chanted. The atmosphere was thick with an energy Kent couldn’t quite place—an ancient power that seemed to seep into his very being.
At the center of the sanctuary stood seven figures, their forms radiating light. These were the Eternal Sages, their long beards and flowing robes giving them an almost mythical appearance. Konan approached them, bowing deeply before stepping aside to introduce Kent.
But someone else stood before the sages—a woman whose presence commanded attention. Her crimson hair flowed like molten fire, and her amber eyes glowed with an intensity that seemed to pierce through Kent. She wore armor that shimmered like gold, and an aura of heat surrounded her, making the air around her shimmer.
The woman turned, her lips curling into a smirk. “So, this is the warrior you’ve brought?” she asked, her voice rich with amusement.
Kent’s eyes narrowed. “And who might you be?”
“I am Ignira, daughter of the Fire God,” she replied, her tone dripping with arrogance. “I have already promised the sages my aid in completing the ritual. They do not need you. Please go back in the same path.”
Konan frowned, clearly torn. “Lady Ignira, I understand your strength, but I have made a promise to this warrior. He has proven himself worthy.”
Ignira laughed, the sound sharp and mocking. “Worthy? This mortal defeated a minor demoness and thinks himself capable of protecting the ritual? How quaint.”
Kent’s jaw tightened, his hand instinctively summoning the divine chakra. “Careful, Fire Princess. You might find your arrogance misplaced.”
Ignira raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening. “Oh? And what exactly would you do to me, mortal?”
Before Kent could respond, one of the sages raised his hand. His voice was deep and resonant, carrying an undeniable authority. “There is no need for hostility. Both of you wish to aid us, yet only one may lead the defense. We will hear from both of you—how do you intend to protect the ritual from the demon prince and his elders? Speak now.”