SUPREME ARCH-MAGUS

Chapter 622 Headstrong Ignira

Kent followed the old tattooed sage, Konan, through the dense forest, the towering trees casting elongated shadows under the dim light of a dying suns.

The forest felt alive, every rustle of leaves and chirp of insects adding to its mystique.

Konan led the way, his ancient staff glowing faintly, runes on its surface pulsing softly with a rhythm that seemed to resonate with the forest itself.

Behind them, Kent's companions moved in a quiet procession—Ruby, the Phoenix Lady, flew above like a scout; Kavi, the Fire Kirin, walked with an air of defiance; and Simon, the disgraced mage, stumbled, dragged along by Jabil.

"The path to the Eternal Sages is not an easy one," Konan said, his voice breaking the silence. "The forest tests those who dare traverse it. In my presence you don't need to worry about that."

Kent offered a faint smile but said nothing, his eyes scanning the surroundings.

They hadn't gone far when the first trial presented itself. A bear-like beast with six muscular limbs emerged from the thick bush, its glowing yellow eyes fixed on the group. It snarled, saliva dripping from its jagged teeth, its growl reverberating through the air.

"Step aside, old sage," Fire Kirin Kavi said, her fiery mane igniting as she pawed the ground.

Konan raised his hand, halting the Kirin's eagerness. "No need for violence, young one." He tapped his staff against the ground, and a wave of calm energy radiated outward. The beast hesitated, its aggression melting away. With a huff, it retreated into the shadows.

Ruby cocked her head. "Not bad for an old sage."

Konan chuckled. "Even the most ferocious beings respect balance and peace when shown the way."

They walked through the sanctuary, drawing the attention of its inhabitants. Dozens of yogic sages sat in lotus positions, their bodies glowing faintly as they chanted. The atmosphere was thick with an energy Kent couldn't quite place—an ancient power that seemed to seep into his very being.

At the center of the sanctuary stood seven figures, their forms radiating light. These were the Eternal Sages, their long beards and flowing robes giving them an almost mythical appearance. Konan approached them, bowing deeply before stepping aside to introduce Kent.

But someone else stood before the sages—a woman whose presence commanded attention. Her crimson hair flowed like molten fire, and her amber eyes glowed with an intensity that seemed to pierce through Kent. She wore armor that shimmered like gold, and an aura of heat surrounded her, making the air around her shimmer.

The woman turned, her lips curling into a smirk. "So, this is the warrior you've brought?" she asked, her voice rich with amusement.

Kent's eyes narrowed. "And who might you be?"

"I am Ignira, daughter of the Fire God," she replied, her tone dripping with arrogance. "I have already promised the sages my aid in completing the ritual. They do not need you. Please go back in the same path."

Konan frowned, clearly torn. "Lady Ignira, I understand your strength, but I have made a promise to this warrior. He has proven himself worthy."

Ignira laughed, the sound sharp and mocking. "Worthy? This mortal defeated a minor demoness and thinks himself capable of protecting the ritual? How quaint."

Kent's jaw tightened, his hand instinctively summoning the divine chakra. "Careful, Fire Princess. You might find your arrogance misplaced."

Ignira raised an eyebrow, her smirk widening. "Oh? And what exactly would you do to me, mortal?"

Before Kent could respond, one of the sages raised his hand. His voice was deep and resonant, carrying an undeniable authority. "There is no need for hostility. Both of you wish to aid us, yet only one may lead the defense. We will hear from both of you—how do you intend to protect the ritual from the demon prince and his elders? Speak now."