Eternal Ascension: The Divine Paradox

The Council agreed to help Kael, but their assistance came with conditions. They demanded that he undergo a series of trials to prove his worthiness. The first trial took place in the **Realm of Echoes**, a dimension where time flowed differently.

As Kael and his companions entered the realm, they were confronted by their own reflections, each embodying their deepest fears and regrets. Kael's reflection sneered at him. "**You think you can save the multiverse? You're just a scholar playing at being a hero.**"

Kael clenched his fists, his resolve hardening. "I may have been a scholar, but I'm more than that now."

The battle was intense, each companion facing their own reflection. Lyra fought against a version of herself consumed by her curse, while Drakthar grappled with a reflection of his past failures. Aegis, ever steadfast, provided support, his mechanical precision turning the tide.

In the end, Kael emerged victorious, his reflection dissolving into light. But the victory was bittersweet. As they left the Realm of Echoes, a massive tremor shook the multiverse, and a new crack appeared in the sky.

Lyra's face paled. "The artifact's power is accelerating the collapse. We need to move faster."

Kael nodded, his determination unwavering. "We'll find a way to fix this. No matter what it takes."