In a quiet corner of the hall, Li Hao found the source of the pull—a small, dim flame floating above an ancient pedestal. It flickered weakly, almost as if it could extinguish at any moment.
"That flame…" the elder frowned. "It has existed here for centuries, yet no one has chosen it."
"Why?" Li Hao asked.
"Because it shows no power," the elder replied. "No heat, no aura. Useless, or so it seems."
Li Hao stepped closer.
The moment he extended his hand—the flame pulsed.
Once.
Twice.
As if it had been waiting.
The elder's expression changed.
"Strange…"
Li Hao didn't hesitate.
"I choose this one."
The elder hesitated, then nodded.
"Very well. Your trial begins now."