***author's pov***
As they entered the Dias Mountain, a breathtaking vista unfolded before them. The interior was adorned with shimmering crystals that glowed in shades of blue and gold, reflecting the light and creating an otherworldly ambiance. The air was thick with magic, buzzing with potential and ancient energy.
Echoes of their footsteps resonated against the smooth, stone walls, and the temperature dropped slightly, sending a chill through the air. It felt as though they were stepping into a realm untouched by time, where every corner held secrets waiting to be unveiled.
“Stay close,” Serena instructed, her voice low but commanding. “The mountain tests those who enter. Trust in each other and remain focused on Valeria.”
They walked deeper into the mountain, the path winding through natural arches and luminous caverns. Every step brought them closer to the heart of the mountain, but an unsettling feeling lingered, as if they were being watched.
Suddenly, a whisper echoed through the chamber, weaving around them like a gentle breeze. It seemed to beckon them forward, drawing their attention to a vast chamber illuminated by a radiant crystal at its center.
“Look!” Kian pointed, his eyes widening. The crystal pulsed with a rhythm, mirroring their heartbeats. It radiated warmth and a comforting energy, but also a sense of urgency.
As they approached, the atmosphere shifted. Shadows danced along the walls, and an invisible force surged, pushing against them. Jerone clenched his fists, determination flaring within him.
“This is it,” he said, his voice steady. “This is where we’ll find her.”
Serena nodded, her gaze fixed on the crystal. “We must channel our energy together to awaken its power. Only then can we reach Valeria.”
With a shared breath, they formed a circle around the crystal, each of them placing a hand on its cool surface. As they connected, a surge of energy flowed through them, merging their wills and intentions.
“Valeria, we’re coming for you!” Kian shouted, focusing on the bond they shared.
The crystal brightened, casting beams of light that illuminated the chamber. But as it did, dark shadows began to swirl around them, revealing figures that emerged from the depths of the mountain.
“Your intentions are noble, but the price must be paid,” one of the shadows hissed, its voice dripping with malice.
Jerone stepped forward, his expression fierce. “We will pay whatever it takes!”
The shadows laughed, their voices echoing ominously. “Then let the trials begin!”
As the shadows surged forward, the elemental kings braced themselves, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead in their quest to save Valeria.
As the shadows coalesced, a host of angels emerged, their ethereal forms glowing with a radiant light. They surrounded the elemental kings, weapons drawn, wings unfurling majestically as they took defensive stances. The air crackled with divine energy, and the atmosphere thickened with tension.
“Who dares enter the sacred Dias Mountain?” the leader of the angels proclaimed, her voice a melodic yet commanding echo. Her eyes glimmered like stars, piercing through the darkness surrounding them.
Jerone stepped forward, his expression resolute. “We come seeking Valeria. She is in danger, and we need your aid!”
The angels exchanged glances, their expressions a mix of skepticism and concern. “The mountain protects its secrets,” the leader replied. “To approach the heart of this realm, you must prove your worth.”
Asher clenched his fists, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. “We’re not here to fight you! We just want to save her!”
The leader raised her sword, a shimmering blade that glinted in the light. “Then you must pass the trials set before you. Only those who are pure of heart and strong of will can proceed.”
Kian stepped up, determination etched on his face. “We accept the trials. Whatever it takes to reach Valeria.”
The angels nodded, and with a wave of their hands, the chamber shifted. The walls of the mountain transformed, revealing a series of intricate portals, each pulsating with a different color, representing various trials.
“Choose wisely,” the leader said, her gaze steady. “Each portal will test a different aspect of your strength and unity. Only by succeeding in all will you gain access to the heart of the mountain and find Valeria.”
As the elemental kings exchanged glances, the weight of their choice hung heavy in the air. They knew that this was their chance to prove themselves—not just to the angels, but to each other and to Valeria.
“Let’s do this,” Jerone said, determination surging through him. They stepped toward the first portal, ready to face the challenges ahead, united in their purpose to save Valeria.
The guardian gestured toward the four portals, each radiating a distinct elemental aura:
1. Portal of Fire: Flames danced at the entrance, casting flickering shadows. The air was thick with heat, and a distant roar echoed from within. This trial would test their courage and mastery over their inner fire.
2. Portal of Water: Waves surged and crashed, mist swirling at the threshold. It shimmered like a calm ocean, but beneath the surface lay the power to challenge their adaptability and emotional resilience.
3. Portal of Earth: The ground trembled as if responding to their presence. Vines twisted and rocks shifted, promising a trial of strength, endurance, and the connection to nature.
4. Portal of Air: A soft breeze flowed through the opening, carrying whispers of freedom and agility. This trial would challenge their speed, intuition, and ability to navigate the unseen.
“The trials will reveal not only your elemental mastery but also your bond as brothers,” the guardian warned. “Choose wisely, for each trial will affect the others.”
As the elemental kings stood before the portals, they felt the weight of their choices pressing down. The fate of Valeria depended on their unity and strength.
“Which one should we tackle first?” Kian asked, scanning the portals, determination flickering in his eyes.
“We need to start with the Fire portal,” Jerone suggested. “It represents our passion and courage. If we can conquer that, the rest will follow.”
Asher nodded, a fierce look in his eyes. “Let’s prove ourselves. For Valeria.”
With a shared sense of purpose, they stepped toward the Portal of Fire, ready to face whatever challenges awaited them within.

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ACROSS THE DEPTHS OF THE UNIVERSE
FantasyValeria is a normal girl , living a normal life but life is never boring or happy it will break you and mend you at the same time . she is a little different from humans , she has a dark aura which is not known by her yet . but the moment she gets t...