The sun was just starting to rise over the ocean, painting the sky in brilliant hues of orange, pink, and gold. The sea was calm, its surface reflecting the colors of the sky, and the sound of waves crashing against the cliffs below was a soothing lullaby. But as the light of dawn reached the top of the cliff, a sudden flash of red light interrupted the peaceful scene.
A figure appeared on the cliff, his presence commanding attention. It was Zhongli, and he was covered in ethereal demonic Ashura armor. The armor had transformed into something much eerier with Zhongli's breakthrough into the Manifestation realm.
As the armor dissipated, Zhongli gazed upon a pillar of light coming from the center of the island. The light was so bright that it was almost blinding, and it seemed to be calling out to him, beckoning him closer. But Zhongli was not one to be easily lured in. He stood there, his eyes narrowed, his mind sharp and focused, searching for any signs of danger.