The air cracked like shattering glass as multiple figures flickered into existence.
A heartbeat ago, they were enduring their trials—facing illusions, monsters, and challenges meant to break them. Now, they stood together, their surroundings unfamiliar, their senses reeling from the sudden shift.
A coliseum stretched before them, massive beyond logic.
Towering stone pillars twisted into the sky, inscribed with glowing runes that pulsed like living veins. The ground beneath them shifted and rearranged, as if the arena itself was alive. One side held an expansive battlefield, resembling an ancient war zone. The other… a futuristic construct—floating platforms, glowing circuits woven into the earth, humming with unknown technology.
Above them, the sky was a swirling paradox of golden sunlight and violet twilight, coexisting in an impossible balance.
The competitors—young warriors of the Eternis clan—stood in tense silence. Some adjusted their weapons, whispering strategies. Others scanned their surroundings, sizing up their potential rivals.
Then—
BOOM.
A ripple of energy burst through the arena, sending a pulse through the air.
A figure materialized from thin air—tall, draped in regal robes, yet wearing a jester's hat, a mix of authority and absurdity.
The Overseer AI had arrived.
Its eyes gleamed with mischief, an exaggerated smirk on its lips.
> "Ahhh, look at you all! The new generation! Hopeful, determined, fresh out of your little existential crises. How exciting!"
The AI clapped its hands dramatically, its voice dripping with amusement.
> "You've all been through trials, been teleported without warning, faced deep personal revelations. Touching, really."
It leaned forward, smirking.
> "But let's break it to you—none of that matters if you can't show your strength."
The words sank into the minds of the competitors.
> "This 'Holy Son' trial? It's a glorified entrance exam. You think passing means destiny is calling? Oh, you poor, naive children."
A few warriors stiffened. Others clenched their fists.
The AI's grin widened.
> "Many before you thought they were the main character after winning this trial. You wouldn't believe how many walked out thinking, 'I am chosen by fate!'"
It let out a mock laugh, shaking its head.
> "Reality, however, doesn't care."
The ground trembled.
Platforms rose from the earth, reshaping the battlefield. Ancient statues of warriors materialized, their weapons gleaming with ominous energy. The futuristic side of the arena buzzed to life—holographic barriers flickering into place.
The AI spread its arms wide.
> "Foundations mean nothing without strength. And dreams? Oh, dreams are adorable, but without power, they're just pretty little illusions."
It snapped its fingers, and golden screens materialized in the sky—showing past Holy Son competitors. Some victorious. Some defeated. Some… completely erased from history.
> "So, let's see it."
The AI's voice grew heavier, pressing down on everyone.
> "You have your goals, your dreams, your motivation? Good. Now prove you're strong enough to walk that path."
It grinned.
> "Welcome to the Arena of Destiny. Let's see if you're worth remembering."
The Trial of Strength had begun.