The unicorn Flame Elks circled the group. Beneath their hooves, golden lotuses bloomed, and from their stamens, golden light erupted like tightly woven ropes, stitching together and sealing off the path ahead. Flames danced and leaped upon the elks' horns, occasionally shifting into the shape of stern faces that scrutinized the intruders. Low, resonant groans echoed through the mist like the tolling of an ancient alarm, striking terror into the hearts of all who heard them.
Xu Tiancai cupped his hands in a respectful salute, his expression earnest as he called out, "We have no intention of offending this spiritual realm. We have been driven here by fate to uncover the mysteries of our origins and the truth behind the Flame Soul Crystal. We hope you will grant us passage."
The elks seemed to understand his words. The leader—a towering beast with particularly fierce flames—stepped forward. With a flash of light, it transformed into the form of a middle-aged man wearing robes of crimson gold, with a flame-shaped mark on his brow. His gaze was like a torch as he spoke: "If you wish to delve deeper, you must undergo a trial to prove yourselves worthy of the realm's secrets. Otherwise, do not blame us for being merciless."
Chapter 300