Villain: Manipulating the Heroines into hating the Protagonist

The first trial, a test of physical prowess, materialized in the form of a colossal stone golem. Its movements were slow, but its strength was immense.

Lin Fei, ever the fiery warrior, roared with laughter. He charged headlong at the golem, his Phoenix Flame coating his fists like molten lava. Each blow he landed sent shockwaves through the cavern, cracking the golem's rocky hide. But the golem was relentless, its massive stone fists raining down on the nimble cultivator.

Chu Yang, on the other hand, took a more tactical approach. He weaved between the golem's attacks, using his mastery of gravity to manipulate the surrounding environment. He sent boulders crashing into the golem's path, hindering its movements. Then, with a well-timed burst of energy from his Heavenly Jade Emperor Meridians, he blasted a weak point in the golem's armor, shattering it.

Chen Feng moved like a phantom, utilizing the Star Cloud Sect's secret movement technique – "Celestial Cloud Steps." He danced around the golem, leaving blurs of silver in his wake, while his precise strikes targeted the golem's weak points with pinpoint accuracy.

The first trial passed, and a collective sigh of relief escaped their lips.

The second trial presented a mental labyrinth, each path filled with illusions and harrowing scenarios designed to test one's will and sanity. Lin Fei, though powerful, struggled with the illusions. His fiery temper made him susceptible to rage-inducing visions designed to break his spirit. However, his unwavering determination and the comforting presence of the Phoenix Flame within him ultimately allowed him to navigate the labyrinth.

Chu Yang, with his honed mental focus, excelled in this trial. He used his deep understanding of formations and talismans to decipher the illusions and find the true path. His calm and collected demeanor helped him overcome the psychological challenges presented.

Chen Feng, known for his cunning mind, navigated the labyrinth with ease. He used his All-Seeing Eye to pierce through the illusions, revealing the true nature of each path.

The third trial tested their tactical brilliance.

They found themselves presented with a complex battlefield scenario, where they had to strategize against a superior force.

Lin Fei, though impulsive, displayed a surprising talent for battlefield strategy. His fiery nature translated well to his tactics, focusing on overwhelming force and decisive strikes. His Phoenix Flame manipulation became a key element in his strategy, disrupting the enemy formations and creating opportunities for victory.

Chu Yang, with his exceptional understanding of formations and spatial manipulation, devised a masterful defensive strategy. He utilized his control over gravity to create choke points and hinder enemy movements, allowing him to turn the tide of the battle despite the odds.

Chen Feng employed a strategic mix of deception and calculated attacks. He used the environment to his advantage, setting traps and exploiting enemy weaknesses.

The final trial tested their mastery of their own Dao. Before them materialized a shimmering orb, holding within it a reflection of their own cultivation path. They were challenged to overcome their own limitations and refine their understanding of their unique power.

Lin Fei, faced with a reflection of his own fiery rage, channeled his anger into his Phoenix Flame, refining its power and control. He emerged with a renewed understanding of his Dao, a balance between untamed fire and focused power.

Chu Yang battled against a reflection of his limitations as a male cultivator in the Heavenly Jade Pavilion. He pushed his Heavenly Jade Emperor Meridians to their limit, unlocking a hidden potential within them. His mastery over elemental manipulation reached a new level, allowing him to control not only his own element but also those around him.

Chen Feng confronted a reflection of his own inner demons, the shadows of doubt that clouded his judgment.

By accepting these shadows as part of himself, he transcended them, achieving a state of pure focus. His mastery over the All-Seeing Eye of the Celestial Firmament deepened, granting him the ability to not just see through illusions but also to manipulate the perception of others.

Exhausted but exhilarated, the trio emerged from the final trial victorious. A spectral figure materialized before them, the essence of Zhen Wu, the legacy's guardian.

"You have exceeded my expectations," Zhen Wu's voice echoed through the cavern. "Your combined strength and individual talents have proven worthy of my legacy."

With a flourish, the cavern filled with a dazzling array of treasures – ancient artifacts, potent elixirs, and scrolls containing lost techniques. These resources, meant to aid their cultivation, were distributed equally among the three.

Then, as a final reward, Zhen Wu bestowed upon them each a unique technique. Lin Fei received the "Ancient Star Destroying Body Transformation Technique," a powerful art that would further enhance his physical prowess and imbue his body with the destructive power of a star.

Chu Yang received the "Celestial Harmony Technique," a rare and powerful art that greatly amplified his control over the elements. With this technique, he could unleash devastating elemental attacks and manipulate the weather of the stars or even the entire Starry Clusters at its peak!

Chen Feng's reward was equally impressive – the "Soul Severing Strike."

This ancient technique allowed him to bypass traditional defenses and directly target an opponent's divine soul. A single, well-placed attack could inflict excruciating pain, disrupt an opponent's concentration, and leave them vulnerable for a critical blow.

As the rewards materialized, a sense of satisfaction washed over them. They had not only survived the trials but emerged significantly stronger. Now, with their newfound power and the shared resources, they could finally consider Chen Feng's proposition.

Emerging from the secret chamber, they found themselves back in the desolate landscape of the Celestial Battlefield.

"So, gentlemen," Chen Feng began, a sly grin playing on his lips, "what do you say we discuss the future?"

Lin Fei, his confidence bolstered by his recent success, crossed his arms. "Speak your mind, Chen Feng. What exactly is your plan for dealing with Wang Jian?"

Chu Yang, ever the strategist, raised an eyebrow. "Indeed. We're intrigued by your proposition, but let's hear the specifics."

Chen Feng cleared his throat and launched into a detailed explanation. "My initial plan was simple – to infiltrate Astral Jade City as a rising star. But after witnessing your prowess, I believe we can achieve a more significant outcome with a combined effort."

He explained how the recruitment process worked. The higher the number of beast cores a participant submitted, the greater their recognition and potential position within Astral Jade City. Chen Feng proposed that Lin Fei and Chu Yang hand over the beast cores they had collected during their trials.

"By combining your impressive collection with mine," Chen Feng stated, "I can secure the top spot in this recruitment process. This would grant me a position of influence within Astral Jade City, allowing me to gather valuable intel from the inside."

Lin Fei and Chu Yang exchanged glances. The idea was undeniably appealing. A mole within the heart of Wang Jian's operation would offer them invaluable information and the ability to disrupt him from within.

However, a practical concern remained. "The beast cores you speak of," Lin Fei rumbled, his voice laced with suspicion, "represent a significant reward. We cannot simply hand them over."

Chu Yang chimed in, his tone measured. "Indeed. Your proposition lacks a binding element of trust."

Chen Feng anticipated their hesitation. "I understand your concerns," he conceded. "To demonstrate my sincerity, I propose a Soul Contract of Cooperation. This will bind us to a common purpose and offer you both a guarantee of my commitment."

The concept of a Soul Contract was a powerful one. It formed a mystical connection between individuals, ensuring they upheld their oaths. The consequences of breaking such a contract were severe, ranging from crippling injuries to even complete soul annihilation.

"Furthermore," Chen Feng added, his voice taking on a persuasive edge, "the Star Cloud Sect recognizes the threat Wang Jian poses. By aiding me, you are indirectly gaining the backing of a powerful sect in your fight against him. We can offer resources and support to further your cultivation."

This additional incentive tipped the scales in Chen Feng's favor. Having the Star Cloud Sect in their corner was a considerable advantage. After a moment of deliberation, Lin Fei and Chu Yang nodded in agreement.

"Very well, Chen Feng," Lin Fei said, a hint of respect creeping into his voice. "We accept your proposal. But remember, any betrayal will result in swift and decisive consequences."

Chu Yang offered a curt nod. "Indeed. We expect complete transparency and a relentless pursuit of Wang Jian's downfall."

A sense of camaraderie bloomed in the air, replacing their initial suspicion. The three cultivators, bound by a shared purpose and a powerful contract, stood united against their common enemy.

"Excellent!" Chen Feng exclaimed, a genuine smile replacing his usual smirk. "Let's begin formulating our plan. With our combined talents, Wang Jian and his Astral Jade City won't stand a chance."

As they huddled together, strategizing their next move, the desolate Celestial Battlefield seemed to vibrate with the anticipation of a brewing storm.