The group walks through the misty forest of the abandoned nation, the Trial lands at dawn. There's a quiet sense of peace after the intensity of the previous battles. Kai and Fumiko share a little moment as they walk way ahead of the group. There's a spark of chemistry as both Fumiko and Kai open up about their pasts and traumas, revealing a softer, more vulnerable side of Kai, the side he forced himself to hide after his father's death. Fumiko: "you saved me from that pillaged village and allowed me to be a part of your team. I don't know how I can ever repay you Kai." She takes off some sort of Aether infused lucky charm, Fumiko: "take it it's the least I can do." Kai: "oh wow! Really?" Fumiko nods. Kai: "thanks so much!"
Hours later the group stumbles upon an ancient ruin with ominous markings that respond to their presence. Lysander, ever the lore expert realises that it's a 'Unity Trial' left behind by the lost civilization that lived in the Trial lands way before the War of the fracture. Lysander: "Apparently it's meant to test whether a group is truly bonded, both mentally and emotionally." Rhea: "Groups will face illusions and trials that prey on their insecurities/ doubts about one another." Kai: "that's sounds twisted" Fumiko: " yeah we should keep walking." Rhea: " no I think we should test our strength, oh c'mon it doesn't even sound that bad guys." Kai: "uhhhh" Lysander: "well Rhea and I are going in regardless." Kai: "oh c'mon! Fine" Kai and Fumiko reluctantly walk up to the Unity Trial gates along with Lysander and Rhea. Fumiko: "And you guys are absolutely sure about this?!" Rhea: "yes, we might even get a shard from this ruin thingy." Fumiko: " al-alright" she takes a deep breath, Fumiko: "I'm ready! Let's go!" Lysander: "that's the spirit!" The stone gate splits in two welcoming the group to a new adventure.