The Cursed Throne of Yanxi

ceremony, shrouded in legend and mystery, was said to have been devised by the ancient sorcerer-kings who once ruled

he shrine, carved into the mountain overlooking the capital, was a marvel of ancient craftsmanship. Its towering ar

concern. "You know you don't have to do this alone, right? I can't help wit

a solitary trial. No swords, no spells, no companions. Yu

wled but sa

r gaze resolute. "I'll return. I have to

liquid. "This is a protective charm. It won't interfere with the trial, but it

with a nod, tucking it in

cess Yuelin of Yanxi, the Rite of the Phoenix

erupted into murmurs. Many eyes were filled with hope,

ascended the steps, her footst

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ziers cast eerie shadows on the walls, and the air was thick with the scent of incense. Yuelin follo

oenix loomed in the center. Its eyes flared to life as

ns. Prove you are unyieldin

rom the shadows emerged creatures born of stone and flam

glinting in the fiery light. The creatures lunged, and sh

rried her through. She dodged and struck with calculated precision, her focus

"You have passed the Tri

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endless darkness, save for a single glowing orb suspended in midair.

self played among the flowers, her laughter bright and carefree. But the joy was short

urder unfolded before her eyes. The betrayal, the fire

ins. Confront your fears a

eir own struggles. Mei was shackled by chains of guilt, while Zhiyua

understanding it. She stepped toward her younger self and knelt, whispering words o

were illusions, Yuelin reached out, her voice filled with determi

returned to its original state. The voice spoke aga

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lden light. At its center stood a majestic phoenix, its

gins. What will you sac

ose from the ground. Upon it lay two items: th

epresents your claim to the throne, your legacy. The dagger represents your s

ty. Without the amulet, her legitimacy as ruler would be questioned. Without

wasn't about the items themselves

r on the pedestal. "Strength comes from within, not from a weapon," she

ting in a radiant burst. The amulet blazed with new

me. "You have passed the Tria

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sound of roaring applause. The people

hed to her side, th

said, a rare smile bre

Mei added, her eyes

y. "This is only the beginning," she declared. "Together, we wil

lingered in the distance. Regent Xuan watched from t

from over,"

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cont