The Trial Begins

However, the moment the ancient tome was opened, a strange and powerful suction force erupted from it like a surging torrent. Yan Zhao was caught off guard, feeling the ancient tome in his hands suddenly become incredibly heavy, as if an invisible giant hand had gripped him tightly, making escape impossible.

His heart suddenly jolted, and he immediately realized the situation was dire. He hastily channeled all his Spiritual Energy, attempting to resist this bizarre suction force. Yet, the force was as unshakeable as a mountain; no matter how he struggled, he couldn't stop his body from being drawn bit by bit into the book.

Yan Zhao's heartbeat grew more rapid, and a fine sheen of sweat broke out on his forehead. He pushed himself to his limits, gritting his teeth, locked in a thrilling tug-of-war with the immense suction force.

Finally, after a prolonged struggle, Yan Zhao's body stabilized. He looked around and found himself in a mysterious space shrouded in mist, dreamlike and ethereal. A faint haze permeated the surroundings, resembling a fairyland.

Within this space, ancient Runes flickered with a faint glow like stars in the night sky, pulsing in and out of visibility as if silently recounting the vicissitudes of time and the depth of stories.

Suddenly, an old man with white hair appeared out of thin air before Yan Zhao like a phantom. His hair was as white as silver, and his gaze was deep and sharp, as if capable of piercing one's soul.

The old man stared at Yan Zhao and slowly spoke, "Young man, your presence here means you are fated with this ancient tome. This tome is an Ancient Immortal Artifact from antiquity, hiding profound secrets of the Immortal Realm. However, these secrets are not easily unveiled; only those truly fated can comprehend their mysteries."

Upon hearing this, a surge of anticipation and curiosity welled up in Yan Zhao's heart. He gazed at the old man and asked, "Then, how can one become fated?"

The old man smiled slightly and said, "If you can pass my three trials, I will reveal the secret to you."

Yan Zhao's heart tightened abruptly, and a chill ran down his spine, but he quickly composed himself. He knew that to unravel this mystery, the trials before him were likely the key. Thus, he nodded firmly without hesitation and declared loudly, "Senior, please present your challenges. This Junior will do his utmost to face them."

Seeing this, the white-haired old man's lips curved upwards, revealing a hint of imperceptible admiration. He flicked his sleeve, the long fabric drawing a natural, flowing arc through the air. In an instant, a sea of raging flames materialized before Yan Zhao, as if threatening to engulf the entire space.

"This first trial is to traverse this sea of flames," the white-haired old man's voice echoed in Yan Zhao's ears. "This fire is the Ancient Flame Demon Fire, exceptionally fierce and potent. Only those with unyielding willpower and profound Spiritual Energy can pass."

Yan Zhao took a deep breath, steadied himself, and then, without hesitation, circulated his Spiritual Energy throughout his body. He felt a powerful force surge within him, as if every cell had been activated. Immediately after, he resolutely stepped into the sea of flames.

The moment he touched the flames, Yan Zhao felt an intense heat wash over him, threatening to scorch his skin. The flames, like ferocious fire dragons, lunged at him with bared fangs and claws, instantly engulfing him. Each step felt like treading on blades, the pain almost unbearable.

However, Yan Zhao bit his lip tightly, refusing to utter a single groan. He held but one belief in his heart: he had to cross this sea of flames and unravel the mystery. With tenacious willpower, he painstakingly moved forward step by step, each movement seeming to drain all his strength.

Time ticked by, and Yan Zhao had no idea how long he had walked in the sea of flames; it felt as if an eternity had passed. Finally, he saw the end of the fiery expanse—a bright exit. Mustering his last ounce of strength, he surged forward and successfully broke through the terrifying inferno.

The moment he stepped out of the sea of flames, he felt utterly exhausted, as if he could collapse at any second. Yet, his gaze was remarkably resolute, burning like the very flames he had just endured. Though his clothes were tattered and scorched beyond recognition, his heart was filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the unknown.