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Inside the arena, the Knight paused as he reached for the ornate door handle, a sudden, sharp pain arresting his movement. His gloved hand flew to his chest, fingers pressing against the spot where his heart thundered. His face twisted, caught between determination and confusion, a conflict of the heart and mind.

Fuli's ethereal form floated gracefully next to him, its presence a soothing balm. "Worry not," Fuli murmured in a voice that sounded like the gentle ripple of water. "The path you tread is long and winding. Your journey is yet incomplete."

The Knight met Fuli's gaze, his eyes reflecting a storm of emotions. "I feel... tethered. As if my heartstrings are being pulled elsewhere."

Gathering his resolve, the Knight slowly turned the ornate handle and stepped through the door, embarking on the next phase of his journey.

The silence following the Knight's entrance into the grandiose hall was palpable. It wasn't just an ordinary hall; it was an expansive chamber, its vastness stretching beyond the horizon of sight. The walls, ceiling, and floor were made of crystalline substance that reflected myriad colors, each hue dancing and intertwining as if waltzing to a silent tune. The beauty was almost overwhelming, and the Knight took a moment to take in his surroundings, the opulence of it all rendering him momentarily breathless.

Veins of gold and silver ran through the crystalline walls, creating patterns and designs that told tales of old, of realms and worlds that had come and gone. The echo of his boots against the luminescent floor sounded distant yet clear, reminding him of the reality of his quest.

It was then that the three shimmering portals emerged. Hovering inscriptions designated each: "Past", "Present", and "Future". The Knight, having faced countless challenges, approached them with caution, sensing that these were not just doors, but gateways to understanding.

Each riddle presented seemed to delve deeper into the annals of time and the very essence of existence. The Knight's initial confidence wavered, his answers missing their mark.

Observing his struggle, Fuli's form wavered, coalescing into a shimmering mirage. "To aid your quest," the ethereal being began, its voice echoing through the vast chamber, "I shall evoke memories of old, of times that were and futures to unfold."

The Past

"Born of fire and fury long ago,

Molded by hands, now buried below.

An age of knights, chivalry, and jest,

When do I exist, if you had to guess?"

As Fuli's essence unfurled, a panorama revealed itself. The sight was breathtaking. Giant castles with spires reaching for the skies, surrounded by deep moats with drawbridges lowered. Jousting tournaments commenced, with knights in shining armor displaying their prowess. They rode with lances, aiming for tiny targets, the crowd erupting in applause with each successful hit.

"M'lady," a knight in silver armor called out, bowing before a lady with flowing raven hair, holding out a rose as a symbol of his affection. Fairs were in full swing—minstrels played lutes, jesters performed acrobatics, and artisans displayed their crafts.

The Knight, taking a cue from Fuli, reached deep within his being. His vision painted a story of a grand feast. Long wooden tables were laden with roasted boars, fresh fruits, and goblets of wine. His ancestors, wearing the family crest, toasted to their victories, their voices filled with mirth and camaraderie.

A young squire approached an older knight. "Sir Cedric," he began, "tell me of our lineage."

With a proud smile, Sir Cedric began, "Long ago, our forefathers..."

Breathing deeply, the Knight whispered, "The Medieval Age."

The Present

"Neither here nor there, always fleeting fast,

Slipping through fingers, memories amass.

Living in moments, yet gone in a flash,

What am I, always caught in the dash?"

Fuli's vision showcased a sprawling city. Skyscrapers stretched upwards, their tops hidden by clouds. Trams zipped by while pedestrians bustled about their day. Screens on every corner flashed news, and cafes were filled with people sharing stories.

In a park, an old man sat, watching children play. A young woman approached him, "Grandpa, tell me about when you were young."

The old man chuckled, "Ah, those were simpler times, my dear..."

The Knight focused on the homeland. A marketplace teemed with activity. A mother haggled over the price of fish, children darted between stalls, and a bard played a tune about current events.

An apprentice asked his mentor, "Master, why do we do this every day?"

The wise old merchant replied, "To live, to experience the present..."

"The Present... the Now," the Knight affirmed.

The Future

"In visions, I lie, a dream yet to meet,

Hopes and fears, where they often greet.

Uncertain and vague, a mystery complete,

Who am I, that tomorrow shall greet?"

Fuli's depiction was of a vast expanse. New constellations formed, galaxies collided, and unknown worlds sprouted life. Civilizations, advanced beyond comprehension, thrived.

A young alien being gazed at the stars, asking its elder, "What lies beyond our reach?"

The elder replied, "Endless potential, young one..."

The Knight saw his kingdom's evolution. New architectural wonders, flying machines, children studying ancient texts alongside new technological wonders. An academy teacher spoke to her student, "Our past defines us, but the future... it's ours to shape."

"Tomorrow," the Knight proclaimed, "The Future."

Both demonstrations faded, leaving the Knight and Fuli standing amidst the brilliance of the crystalline hall. The grand archway materialized, signaling the successful culmination of the Knight's trials.

Fuli's voice, gentle yet powerful, reverberated, "With memories as your guide and the vision of times yet to come, you are prepared for what lies ahead."

After resolving the riddle and being surrounded by the echoes of memories, the Knight looked to Fuli, a perplexed expression painting his face. "What was the point of these... riddles?" he inquired.

Fuli's crystalline form seemed to ripple, reflecting the ambient light of the hall in mesmerizing patterns. "In all creation, Knight," Fuli began, its voice deep and resonant, "there exist lessons that are not solely for skill or prowess but for understanding oneself. Your power is not merely of the sword, but of remembrance. The riddles were the key to unlocking the latent strength within you."

The Knight's eyes widened, reflecting the crystalline luminescence of Fuli's transformed visage. The delicate curtain of pearls partially obscuring the deity's face added an air of enigma. "So, I possess the power to immortalize tales within the confines of my thoughts?" he queried, a mixture of awe and curiosity evident in his tone.

Fuli nodded serenely. "Yes, your narrative and, with time, the chronicles of others. The essence of life is woven through tales, memories, and dreams. With your newfound gift, you have the ability to traverse these realms, to document and to preserve."

After the profound explanation of his newfound power, the Knight hesitated, his voice tinged with a hint of skepticism. "The riddles seemed rather simple for such grandiose power, don't you think?"

Fuli's crystal form twinkled mischievously, its voice carrying an amused lilt. "Perhaps to some, they might seem straightforward. However, your intelligence... even in the past, remains... dull."

The Knight's black-purple eyes twitched at the remark, and he shot Fuli a mock glare. "You could've just praised my quick thinking," he grumbled, trying to hide a smile.

With a chuckle, Fuli responded, "But now, your comprehension transcends beyond mortal capabilities, so there's no need to worry."

Rubbing the back of his head with a mix of astonishment and disbelief, the Knight cast a sidelong glance at the looming spires outside, which seemed to stretch endlessly. "Are there more challenges waiting within those towers?" he inquired.

Fuli let out a melodious chuckle, a sound reminiscent of wind chimes on a breezy day. "No, dear Knight. They are but mere illusions, crafted to spur your determination and resolve."

The Knight raised an eyebrow, his face a blend of amusement and exasperation. "Really? You could've just told me that from the start."

With a soft, playful shimmer, Fuli conjured a grandiose door etched with intricate designs. The patterns seemed to tell tales of battles, love, betrayal, and hope. "Beyond this threshold, embrace your legacy. Dive deep into your past and wield your newfound power with wisdom."

Taking a deep breath, the Knight stepped towards the door, his hand resting upon the ornate handle, ready to journey into the vast expanse of his own memories.

---

A ripple in reality, like the surface of a disturbed pond, shifted the perspective. Jingliu stood in stark contrast to the world around her, greatsword made of ice and moonlight gleaming brilliantly against the oppressive darkness. The sight of the corrupted Knight before her tore at her very being. She bit her lip hard, blood staining her pale skin.

"This is but an illusion," she whispered fiercely to herself, determination evident in her eyes. "I seek redemption, and I shall have it, even if I must face my deepest fears."

Before her, Y/N's corrupted visage was a cruel reminder of the tragedy that had befallen them. No longer was he the proud and valiant knight she once knew. Bent and twisted, the very essence of him seemed corrupted by an evil more profound than any curse. His greatsword, embedded in the fractured earth, served as a grotesque crutch. His left arm dangled lifelessly, a testament to his agonizing transformation.

Wasting no time, Jingliu surged forward, her blade seeking to end the battle quickly. Her every instinct screamed about the danger of the corrupted form before her. As her blade thrust forward, the corrupted Knight mirrored her move. Earth and air trembled at the force of their collision, the ground splitting apart where their blades met.

With a swift maneuver, Jingliu slid her blade along the flat of his, leveraging her position to send his weapon flying. The corrupted Knight let out a guttural, bone-chilling roar. Yet, even in his apparent disadvantage, he lunged, his good arm delivering a swift, brutal punch. The force sent Jingliu spiraling backward, blood staining the already darkened earth as she struggled to rise.

Jingliu's graceful form twisted in the air as she tried to regain her balance. Just as she righted herself, her vision was consumed by the corrupted knight's fearsome leap. His twisted body arched unnaturally in the air, fingers wrapping tightly around his greatsword's hilt as he brought it down with murderous intent.

Reacting quickly, Jingliu summoned her Moonlit Guardian, the powerful defensive barrier shimmering with a soft, iridescent glow. The Knight's blade crashed into the lunar shield with such force that it dug deep into the ground beneath, making her feel the weight of the world pressing down on her.

With the Knight trying to pierce through her barrier, the cracks forming on the shield resembled a spider's web, illuminating the night. Seizing the opportunity, Jingliu summoned ice around his feet, momentarily halting his assault.

With the elegance and precision she was known for, the Nighthilt Sovereign quickly deactivated her barrier. Calling upon the celestial energies she had mastered, her silhouette glowed with a radiant moonlit aura. In a quick maneuver, she formed a small, luminous lunar crescent in her left hand, casting it towards the Knight's face. Its glow, in contrast to the world around them, blinded the corrupted being temporarily.

Seizing her advantage, Jingliu's blade danced in the cold night, sending waves of razor-sharp ice with every swing. One such wave connected, severing the Knight's already limp arm. The ground was littered with the evidence of their battle, and while the Knight did not scream out in pain, the very atmosphere around him grew thick with a rising, palpable anger.

His once noble form began to tremble uncontrollably, enveloped in a swirling, malevolent black energy. Realizing the potential danger, Jingliu retreated several steps. Her instincts proved right as, in a burst of rage, the Knight unleashed an explosive wave of dark energy, decimating everything in its path.

With practiced ease, Jingliu spun, her greatsword cutting a circle in the air, deflecting the majority of the oncoming force. Yet, in her momentary focus on the explosion, the Knight had closed the distance between them. She barely had time to register the descent of his blade, aiming to end the dance they had begun.

The sheer pressure from the knight's blade bore down on Jingliu, forcing her to use all her strength to resist. The weight of their shared history pressed just as heavily on her soul, memories of happier times flashing before her eyes. Moments when laughter and camaraderie filled their days, a stark contrast to the cruel twist of fate they now found themselves in.

As she fought against the overwhelming might of the knight, tears streamed down Jingliu's face, blurring her vision. "I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice filled with despair and regret.

Suddenly, a radiant glow enveloped the corrupted knight. The Moonlit Guardian, a mystical protector long associated with Jingliu, had taken a humanoid form, its own sword of pure, shimmering moonlight piercing through the knight's back. This ethereal being's presence was a testament to the depth of Jingliu's resolve, a manifestation of her heart's desires.

Locked in an intimate embrace with the knight, their faces mere inches apart, Jingliu gazed deeply into the dark abyss that was once the eyes of her dear friend Y/N. Instead of the love and warmth she once knew, only an empty void stared back. "I'm so, so sorry," she sobbed, her voice filled with heartbreak and anguish.

As the greatsword clattered to the ground, the corrupted knight's form began to waver, turning to a cascade of inky black particles. In a voice, broken and distorted yet familiar, he whispered, "Thank you." With that final utterance, his essence dispersed, leaving behind only a lingering sense of loss.

The Moonlit Guardian, with its ethereal glow, transformed back into its mini crescent moon form, floating beside Jingliu like a loyal sentinel. The Nighthilt Sovereign, taken aback by the unexpected twist of events and Y/N's heartfelt words, struggled to find her bearings amidst the emotional turmoil.

As the remnants of the once formidable knight turned to black ashes, drifting away with the winds of the forest, Jingliu's gaze was drawn to an object partially buried beneath the now settling dust. There, catching the ambient light in the most enchanting way, was a pendant. The pendant was intricately designed, featuring a resplendent crystal prism that encapsulated a dynamic cloudscape, almost as if capturing a piece of the vast heavens. The crystalline body, tapering at both ends, was held by a delicate silver chain. The top of the pendant held a hint of mysterious purple, contrasting beautifully with the cerulean depths within.

With hands trembling, whether from exhaustion or emotion, Jingliu carefully picked up the pendant. The cold surface of the pendant met the warmth of her palm, and she could almost feel a connection. Pulling it close to her chest, she hugged it with both hands, her knuckles white from the intensity of her grip. Tears streamed down her face, reflecting the anguish and sorrow of a heart that had been through far too much. Each droplet shimmered in the pale moonlight as she mourned the loss, her cries echoing softly through the once hostile, now eerily silent forest.