Chapter 16: Echoes of Wisdom

The group found themselves before an ancient stone gate hidden among the trees. Elara examined the inscriptions carved on its surface.

"This is a portal of knowledge," she explained. "It is believed that those who pass through it gain ancestral wisdom."

Excited at the prospect of acquiring new insights, the adventurers decided to cross the portal. As they did so, a series of visions began to unfold before their eyes.

Each member of the group saw scenes from the history of Mythalis, from ancient eras to more recent times. The [System Nine Times Interface] displayed notifications about the visions:

[Liam - Ancient Mage's Legacy: Insights into the teachings of an ancient mage. Knowledge Bonus: +10%]

[Darius - Battle Tactics of the Vanguard: Ancient war strategies. Proficiency Bonus: +15%]

[Lila - The Archer's Prowess: Techniques of legendary archers. Proficiency Bonus: +20%]

[Sofia - Illusions of the Past: Secrets of ancient illusionists. Knowledge Bonus: +15%]

[Elara - Healing Arts of Yore: Ancient healing techniques. Proficiency Bonus: +10%]

The visions provided a significant boost to their skills and knowledge, strengthening them for future challenges.

After crossing the portal, the group found themselves in a majestic clearing surrounded by tall, shimmering trees. There, a shadowy figure awaited them.

"If you wish to proceed, you must prove your worth," said the figure with a raspy voice. "Prepare to be tested."

It was a Guardian of the Forest, an ancient being that protected the secrets of the Enchanted Forest. The group braced themselves for the battle, knowing that this was a test of their journey.

The Guardian unleashed dark spells, testing their abilities and endurance. Darius delivered precise strikes, while Lila shot arrows with deadly accuracy. Sofia used her illusions to confuse the enemy, and Elara healed the group's wounds.

Liam channeled his flames, combining them with the newly acquired Light's Resilience. His determination was unwavering, and he felt he was getting closer to his true potential.

The battle was intense, and the [System Nine Times Interface] updated the information:

[Liam - Fire Manipulation: Level 7, Elemental Fusion: Level 6, Battle Coordination: Level 4]

[Darius - Swordsmanship: Level 8, Battle Aura: Level 7, Defensive Aura: Level 5]

[Lila - Archery: Level 8, Stealth: Level 7, Tracking: Level 6]

[Sofia - Illusion Magic: Level 9, Telekinesis: Level 7, Mind Reading: Level 5]

[Elara - Healing Magic: Level 8, Nature's Embrace: Level 7, Plant Manipulation: Level 6]

With enhanced cooperation and newfound strength, the group managed to defeat the Guardian of the Forest. As they did, the Guardian smiled, acknowledging their courage and determination.

"You are true heirs of the Enchanted Forest," he said, dissipating into shadows.

The group felt a sense of accomplishment as they completed another trial in their journey. They had grown not only in skills but also in wisdom and bravery.

And so, with hearts filled with new knowledge and experiences, the group continued their journey through the Enchanted Forest, ready to face the challenges and mysteries that still awaited.

---

--LuhRoyVv NineS: There will be no light without the shadow.