Chapter 45: The Approaching Trial. (Part 1)

Footsteps echoed across the labyrinth's interior as two figures traversed it. On the left was an old man, Xylon, while on the right stood a tall, muscular man with spiky dark hair and hollow eyes - Rek. 

The two walked side by side in silence. Xylon did not appear to be carrying any weapons, whereas Rek had a single sword sheathed at his waist.

After arriving at their destination, a grin spread across Xylon's face as he stared at what lay before them - a large, closed gate adorned with strange, runic symbols. In front of the gate, two lit torches burned with dark, continuous flames.

"Looks like the trial is ready... How are they faring?" Xylon asked, glancing at Rek.

"There are twenty-two of them still alive. They're performing better than we expected," Rek replied.