LIGHTNOVELWORLD Chapter 5: Chapter 5: The Forced Journey
The next morning, the map began to glow faintly, marking the first stage of the journey to the Land of Eclipse. Xu Tian and Yue Lian, with their respective groups, met outside the coliseum. Neither spoke, but the tension between them was evident.
The master of the Eternal Sun Sect walked up to Xu Tian. "This journey will be more than a test of your strength. It is an opportunity to understand what it means to lead. Do not let your pride blind you."
"I know, master," Xu Tian replied, though his words lacked humility. "I will not stop until I prove that the Sun can eclipse any shadow."
Meanwhile, Yue Lian received similar instructions from her own master. "Stay calm, Yue Lian. Although the Sun and Moon are opposites, their balance is the key. Remember: the strongest light always casts the deepest shadows."
She nodded. "I understand, master."
Both groups began their journey, following the map. The first stage took them to the Dusk Forest, a place famous for its high-level spirit beasts and oppressive atmosphere. To the surprise of both of them, the map began to change, indicating that the two sects' paths would inevitably converge.
"I have no time to travel with you," Xu Tian said when they met at the entrance of the forest. "The Sun does not need the Moon's help."
"And I have no interest in your company," Yue Lian replied, her tone as cold as the night wind.
However, the forest had other plans. They had barely gone a few hours when they were surrounded by a group of Dusk Shadow Wolves, 5,000-year-level spirit beasts. They were fast, intelligent, and most worryingly, they attacked in packs.
Xu Tian summoned his first ring, casting Solar Flash to blind the wolves. The burst of light scattered some, but others used the shadows of the forest to get closer.
"Watch out behind you!" Yue Lian shouted, casting Entangling Shadows to catch one of the wolves that was charging at Xu Tian.
He turned just in time, striking the wolf down with a direct hit. Although there was resentment between them, they both knew that fighting together was the only way to survive.
"Just this once," Xu Tian said as he summoned his third ring, activating Solar Burst to burn several wolves at once.
"Alright," Yue Lian replied, using Eternal Shadows to protect both groups from the remaining attacks.
Finally, the wolves were defeated, and calm returned to the forest. Although neither wanted to admit it, cooperation had been key to getting through the standoff.
"Don't get used to it," Xu Tian said as he caught his breath. "This doesn't mean I trust you."
"Same here," Yue Lian replied, turning her back.
As they continued on their way, they both reflected on what had happened. Although their personalities clashed, it was evident that they were stronger together. But the question remained: could they put aside their differences long enough to face the challenges ahead?