The Eternal Dao Sect: Legacy of Chaos

The victory over the first trial sent the group into ecstasies, but at the same time, it sobered them. Now, the Shard of Origin rested in Jayson's possession, pulsating from time to time with energy they had tapped but a little. Still, the post-effect of that trial marked another beginning of fear in their lives.

News of their success spread like wildfire across the clans. It wasn't just a celebration-there were whispers, jealousy, and suspicion. The clan leaders had called an emergency council to discuss further action. Meanwhile, the group found themselves at the center of attention, both revered and scrutinized.

---

The Summons of the Council

"You are to present yourselves at the council chambers by dusk," Elder Arthus had told them that morning. His tone was not as harsh as it usually was, the hard edge replaced by an edge of warning.

"Council chambers," Diane muttered as they walked down the cobbled streets of the stronghold of the Silvermoon Clan. "This doesn't feel like a congratulations party."

"It's not," Jayson said, gripping the hilt of his sword. His gray hair fell over his eyes, but his voice was firm. "The clans have always feared what they can't control. And now we're that thing."

Mike frowned, his spear resting over his shoulder. "We survived the trial, didn't we? What else do they want?"

They want assurance, Cindy whispered as she walked with him. Assured that we aren't going to turn into threats against their powers.

They went silent, coming into view of the grand council hall-a magnificent structure chiseled from black stone and with great pillars etched into glowing runes.

Inside, the air was thick with tension. The clan leaders, in a semicircle, were a mixture of curiosity and open distrust. At the center stood the High Chancellor-a wizened man whose eyes seemed to pierce through every soul.

"Young warriors," the High Chancellor began, his voice echoing in the vast chamber. "You have accomplished what many believed to be impossible. But with great power comes great responsibility."

Jayson stepped forward, his head inclined in respect. "We realize the responsibility placed upon us, Chancellor. We are prepared to serve under the clans, protecting our world."

"Are you?" one of the leaders broke in, his voice acid. "Or is it that you're trying to create a route all of your own, one which endangers the fragile balance of power?"

The air was taut in an instant.

Diane stepped up, her voice level. "To protect this world-that is all.

"Actions speak louder than words," supplemented one of the other leaders. "And there are whispers-whispers of rivalries, of alliances among you that may fracture the unity we desperately need."

Mike's hand tightened on his spear. "If this is about Cindy and me-"

"It is," the High Chancellor cut in; the room fell silent. "The bond between you two is admirable, but it has raised concerns among the Styles Clan.

Cindy's eyes widened in surprise. "Concerns? My family knows where my loyalty lies!"

"They know, but others do not," said the High Chancellor. "And perception can be just as dangerous as reality."

---

A Challenge in the Council Hall

Before any of them could say anything more, the doors to the council hall burst open. A young man in ornate armor strode in, flanked by several warriors. His eyes were cold, calculating, and locked onto Mike.

Lord Keiran of the Styles Clan," the High Chancellor announced, his voice tinged with caution. "To what do we owe this interruption?"

Keiran ignored the question, his gaze fixed on Cindy. "You've dishonored our clan by associating with a commoner. And you," he added, pointing at Mike, "have no place standing among us.

Mike's jaw clenched, but Cindy stepped forward, her voice sharp. "Keiran, this is ridiculous. My choices are my own."

"Your choices affect the clan!" Keiran snapped. "And if this…outsider thinks he's worthy of you, let him prove it."

A murmur spread through the hall. The council members exchanged glances, some intrigued, others disapproving.

Jayson stepped forward, his hand on his sword. "This isn't the time for petty squabbles. We have bigger threats to face."

Keiran sneered. "Stay out of this, Grayhair. Or are you afraid your friend will lose?"

Mike held up a hand, stopping Jayson. His eyes were steady, his voice calm. "I'll fight him."

Cindy grabbed his arm. "Mike, you don't have to-

"Yes, I do," he said softly, meeting her gaze. "Not just for us, but to show them who I am."

---

The Duel

The hall was cleared and a makeshift arena formed at the center. Keiran and Mike faced each other, their weapons drawn. The air was alive with tension.

"First blood," the High Chancellor announced. "No killing."

Keiran smirked, his glowing sword flashing in the dim light of the hall. "I'll make this quick."

Mike whirled his spear; its tip glittered with golden energies. "You speak too much."

Steel clashed on steel as their duel began, along with flashes of sparks: Keiran fast and all so well-calculated. Mike wasn't some amateur either; his spear lashed like a living thing as it deflected Keiran's strikes to deal devastating counter thrusts.

Keiran's frustration grew as he began to realize Mike wasn't just holding his own-he was gaining ground. In a roar, he launched into a mighty technique, his sword surging in a wave of energy.

Mike planted his spear into the ground and used it as a pivot, leaping over the attack. In mid-air, he conjured his energy, a burst of gold striking Keiran's blade and shattering his technique.

The crowd gasped as Mike landed gracefully, his spear pointed at Keiran's throat.

"First blood," Mike said, his voice calm but firm.

A thin line of red appeared on Keiran's neck, and he froze.

The High Chancellor stood, his voice cutting through the silence. "The duel is over. Michael of the Commoners is the victor."

---

Aftermath and Unity

Keiran stormed out of the hall, pride wounded. The council members murmured amongst themselves, some impressed, others still wary.

Cindy ran to Mike, her relief palpable. "I told you to be careful!"

Mike grinned, wiping a bead of sweat from his forehead. "Careful's my middle name."

The High Chancellor raised his hand for silence. "Today, we have seen courage, skill, and determination. Let this be a lesson that it is unity, not division, that will see us through the Mellian threat.

As they all emerged from the hall together, and their bond was stronger than ever, Jayson couldn't help but feel a sense of foreboding. The clans may be united for now, but the true storm was still to come.