"And how is this going to help our cause?" The Lord questioned sceptically.

"Since the mission is impossible to accomplish, the Fire Clan will soon or later become restless. Either they will beg for the Celestial Emperor to release them or they might even directly interfere with the trial. No matter the way, discord will grow between the two parties. We can even lend them some help in this. By then, the destruction of the Fire Clan will be inevitable."

"Good!" The Lord helped the God of Spring up and said happily. "I knew I could trust you!"

The abused God tried to keep up a smile, even though he felt deep hatred towards the individual in front of him. If not for having no other options, why would he even lower himself to do the dirty works for this evil-doer?

"When that happens, my Lord, please remember your promise." God of Spring sent a reminder.

"Of course." The God felt a pat on his shoulder.

"As long as the Fire Gods are eradicated, I shall also return what I owe you."

Satisfied with the answer, God of Spring dismissed himself and left the cave. When he was gone, the joyful attitude of the Lord disappeared. Instead a sinister aura spread out.

"Soon, I shall have my revenge. Magma, Ember, Blaze... All of you bastards shall experience what I have been going through and worse!"

With a shout, all the plants in the area immediately withered.

----

"Remember to never give up, baby." Ember encouraged her son while wiping away her tears.

"I believe in you, son." Magma chimed in and declared proudly.

"Thank you, mother and father. I promise I won't disappoint you again." Yang gave a sweet smile and then took a deep breath, before stepping in front of the portal.

Soon after, Ying had also finished her farewell with her parents and accompanied Yang.

"Are you ready?" The young Fire God asked his partner.

"Yes." The Ice God nodded gracefully.

Together they entered the now orange Portal of Trials. As they passed through, their bodies twirled painfully before they were flung out into the Mortal Realm.