The sun had not yet risen over the Universität der Ewigen Flamme, but the air was already thick with anticipation. The Trial of Vows had left ripples in its wake, and now, the Outer Gate awaited. Maximilian Kriegswald stood at the threshold, his palm branded with the Eidflamme sigil, a constant reminder of his vow.
The gate itself was a marvel—a towering archway of obsidian and starsteel, inscribed with runes that shimmered with an inner light. Beyond it lay the Flammenbruch, a realm where reality was fractured, and the laws of nature bent to the will of ancient forces.
As Maximilian stepped through the gate, the world around him shifted. The sky was a swirling vortex of colors, and the ground beneath his feet pulsed with energy. He was not alone; echoes of past challengers lingered, their presence felt but unseen.
The first trial was one of perception. Illusions danced before his eyes, each more convincing than the last. He had to rely on his inner flame, the core of his being, to discern truth from deception. With each correct choice, the path became clearer, the illusions fading into nothingness.
Next came the trial of resolve. Manifestations of his deepest fears materialized, challenging his commitment to his vow. He faced them head-on, drawing strength from the Eidflamme, its warmth bolstering his courage. One by one, the fears dissipated, unable to withstand his unwavering determination.
The final trial was of unity. He encountered a being of pure energy, a guardian of the Flammenbruch, who tested his ability to harmonize with the elemental forces. Through meditation and focus, Maximilian synchronized his energy with the guardian's, achieving a state of equilibrium that allowed him to pass.
Emerging from the Flammenbruch, Maximilian found himself back at the university, the gate closing silently behind him. Word of his success spread quickly, and the political landscape began to shift. The Houses, once dominant, now faced the rise of a new power—the Independents, led by Maximilian.
In the days that followed, alliances were forged, and tensions grew. Maelis, Lirael, and Alwin stood by Maximilian, each bringing their unique strengths to the cause. Together, they prepared for the challenges ahead, knowing that the path they had chosen would not be easy, but it was theirs to walk.
End of Chapter 18: The Outer Gate