Within the Soul Suppressing Tablet's core space, Ling Yun's spiritual projection stood facing the awakened Tablet Spirit's dragon soul. The Tablet Spirit's Dragon Eyes were clear and profound, as though they could pierce through eternity and see into the essence of one's heart. It did not immediately present its trial. Instead, it quietly gazed at Ling Yun, its eyes carrying scrutiny, remembrance, and an indescribable expectation.
"Child of Chaos..." The Tablet Spirit's voice was ancient yet gentle, sounding directly within Ling Yun's soul. "You were able to come here and awaken me, proving that your fate with His Majesty is no shallow one. You bear the Chaos Origin, and your will is sufficiently resilient. However, obtaining the core of His Majesty's inheritance—the Chaos Dragon Pearl—requires more than bloodline and strength alone. The Dragon Pearl carries His Majesty's lifelong Dao and final charge. It concerns the fate of the Dragon Clan and even the safety of this world. It cannot be bestowed lightly."
Ling Yun's spiritual projection bowed respectfully. "This junior understands. Please instruct me in the trial, Senior. Ling Yun will surely give his all and not fail your trust."
The Tablet Spirit nodded slightly. Light flowed through its Dragon Eyes as it slowly spoke, asking its first question:
"First question: Why do you seek power?"
The question was simple and direct, yet it struck at the heart. Power was the fundamental pursuit of all cultivators, but the reason one sought it determined the end of one's path.
Ling Yun did not hesitate in the slightest. His spiritual voice was firm and clear. "For protection. To protect those I cherish, to protect the land that gave me life and raised me, and to protect the order and beauty this world ought to possess. To me, power is not for domination