The Rise of an Evil Sect Leader

The Crimson Veil Ravine stretched out like a labyrinth, its winding paths and twisted foliage bathed in a dim red light that seemed to emanate from the ground itself. The eerie glow cast long shadows, creating a foreboding atmosphere that weighed heavily on the minds of all who ventured within.

Ye Tian led the way with calm authority, his steps measured and deliberate. Zhou Lie and Jiang Hao followed closely, their sharp gazes scanning for danger. The small group of former Sun Meng followers lagged behind, their eyes filled with a mixture of fear and reluctant obedience. The memory of Sun Meng's bloody demise was still fresh, and they dared not cross their new leader.

The ravine was silent, save for the occasional rustle of leaves or the distant growl of some unseen beast. Yet, despite the ominous quiet, the group moved with purpose. Ye Tian's reputation as a cunning and ruthless Inner Sect disciple had already spread like wildfire, and the mere sight of his group was enough to deter weaker factions from approaching.

A Tense Encounter

As they rounded a bend in the narrow path, the group came face to face with another band of disciples. This group, larger and more organized, was led by a tall man with striking features and an air of authority. His piercing gaze swept over Ye Tian and his companions, lingering on the former Sun Meng followers.

"Well, well," the tall man said, his voice smooth but carrying an undertone of menace. "If it isn't the infamous Ye Tian. I've heard whispers of your exploits. Taking down Sun Meng's group, was it? Impressive."

Ye Tian stopped, his expression unreadable. "And you are?"

"Feng Ziyan," the man replied, inclining his head slightly. "Inner Sect, like yourself. Though I can't say I've had the pleasure of meeting you before now."

Zhou Lie stepped forward, his hand resting on the hilt of his weapon. "State your business, Feng Ziyan. We're not here for idle chatter."

Feng Ziyan chuckled, his group tensing behind him. "No need for hostility. I merely wished to assess the competition. The Trial of Legacy isn't just about strength, after all. It's about alliances, strategy... and knowing when to strike."

A Calculated Response

Ye Tian's lips curled into a faint smile. "You're not wrong, Feng Ziyan. But alliances are fragile things. They require trust—a commodity that's in short supply here."

Feng Ziyan's smile faltered for a moment, but he quickly recovered. "True enough. Still, I wonder if your group can afford to turn down potential allies. The deeper we go, the more dangerous this trial becomes. Strength in numbers, wouldn't you agree?"

Before Ye Tian could respond, Jiang Hao stepped forward, his voice sharp. "We don't need numbers. What we have is more than enough."

The tension between the two groups thickened, and for a moment, it seemed as though a fight might break out. But Ye Tian raised a hand, silencing Jiang Hao and Zhou Lie with a single gesture.

"Feng Ziyan," Ye Tian said, his tone calm but firm, "if you truly seek an alliance, you'll need to prove your worth. Words are cheap. Actions, however, are another matter."

The Test

Feng Ziyan's eyes narrowed, a flicker of irritation crossing his face. "And what kind of test do you have in mind?"

Ye Tian gestured toward a narrow path branching off from the main one. It was shrouded in darkness, the air around it thick with a palpable sense of danger. "There's something ahead—a beast or a trap. Clear the path for us. If you survive, we'll talk."

Feng Ziyan's group exchanged uneasy glances, but their leader held his ground. "You want us to act as your vanguard? Clever. But how do I know you won't attack us the moment we're weakened?"

Ye Tian's smile widened, but it didn't reach his eyes. "You don't. But if you refuse, I'll take it as a sign that you're not worth my time—or my trust."

Feng Ziyan stared at Ye Tian for a long moment, weighing his options. Finally, he nodded. "Fine. We'll play your game—for now."

The Clearing Ahead

As Feng Ziyan's group moved cautiously down the darkened path, Ye Tian turned to Zhou Lie and Jiang Hao. "Stay alert. If they're smart, they'll try to turn this situation to their advantage."

Zhou Lie smirked. "If they try anything, they won't live long enough to regret it."

Jiang Hao nodded, his expression serious. "Still, it's risky letting them take point. What if they succeed and come back stronger?"

Ye Tian's eyes glinted with cold calculation. "Then we'll deal with them when the time comes. For now, let them serve their purpose."

From the shadows, the sounds of battle echoed through the ravine—clashing steel, roars of pain, and the unmistakable screeches of a monstrous beast. The fight was fierce, and as the minutes dragged on, the sounds grew fainter.

Finally, Feng Ziyan and his surviving followers emerged, bloodied but alive. Their expressions were a mixture of triumph and exhaustion.

"The path is clear," Feng Ziyan said, his voice tight with suppressed anger. "Now, about that alliance..."

A Dangerous Partnership

Ye Tian studied Feng Ziyan carefully, noting the reduced numbers and the weariness etched into his face. "You've proven yourselves," he said, his tone neutral. "But an alliance is built on more than just one act of bravery."

Feng Ziyan bristled. "We've done our part. If you don't intend to honor your word—"

"Relax," Ye Tian interrupted, his voice icy. "You'll have your alliance. But understand this: I'm in charge. You follow my lead, or this partnership ends here."

The two leaders locked eyes, the tension between them palpable. Finally, Feng Ziyan nodded, though his reluctance was evident. "Very well. But don't think for a moment that I'll be your lackey."

Ye Tian's smirk returned. "Of course not. You're much more useful alive."

As the newly allied groups moved deeper into the ravine, Ye Tian couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction. The Trial of Legacy was a game of power and manipulation, and he was playing it masterfully. But he knew the true challenges were yet to come—and he was ready for them.