"We're heading toward the same place where the clouds are gathering again," Jin Meiyu remarked from the sidelines as the group continued their journey. In the far distance, thick, black-grey clouds loomed ominously over the horizon. "This phenomenon has occurred twice already. We believe it might be due to the birth of some rare treasure—or perhaps one has already appeared."

"That's one way to see it," Shui Qingyi said, glancing at the skies with a calm yet discerning gaze. She was currently leading the group representing the Verdant Sky Hall. "But I'd wager those are tribulation clouds. Someone's about to break through to the Golden Core Realm."

She turned slightly, her voice composed yet filled with subtle pride. "I almost forgot—I'm Shui Qingyi, one of the Core Disciples of the Verdant Sky Hall."

Xu Mo stepped forward slightly, his expression courteous. "I'm Xu Mo, from the Hidden Dragon Sect. It's an honor to meet you all. I also extend my greetings to the other sects here."

He paused before politely raising a question. "May I ask… why would anyone attempt to advance to the Golden Core Realm inside this secret realm?"

"Because the secret realm doesn't allow cultivators above the Foundation Building Realm to exist within it—right?" Shui Qingyi finished his question effortlessly, her tone betraying that she had anticipated this concern. It seemed many here were equally puzzled, except perhaps two—Xue Lingxi and Jin Meiyu. Xu Mo noted this but chose not to comment. It was clear they knew something the others didn't—and for some reason, were keeping it to themselves.

Shui Qingyi continued, her voice steady. "It's related to rumors. As you might know, this secret realm serves as a training ground for our sect. For all of you, it might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but for us, it's a legacy we've inherited."

Many of the outer disciples from the other sects swallowed their pride and nodded with feigned humility, even as resentment simmered within. No one wanted to openly offend a Core Disciple of the Verdant Sky Hall.

"This secret realm," Shui Qingyi explained, "was left behind by our sect's founder—Lü Qingxiao. He was revered across realms as the Skyroot Patriarch. His Dao harmonized space and nature itself. It's said that when he meditated, the winds would pause, and the clouds wouldn't dare drift above his peak."

There was a subtle awe in her tone now, her words painted with reverence and pride.

"There are rumors that the Skyroot Patriarch left behind a powerful inheritance within this realm. The trials he designed were so difficult that even we—disciples of his own sect—were unable to uncover its secrets for thousands of years. Until about a hundred years ago… when one disciple did the impossible."

She drew in a breath, her expression reflective. Even someone like her—calm and poised—seemed proud when speaking of this piece of history.

If you come across this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

"As the apex sect of this domain, we take pride in our heritage," she continued. "And rightly so. Just as I'm sure all of you are proud of your sects. Even Xu Mo wouldn't allow anyone to badmouth the Hidden Dragon Sect. Still, making enemies above your level—especially above your sect's level—is just foolish. It's disrespectful and reckless."

There were a few nods in silent agreement, particularly from older disciples who understood the weight behind her words.

"Anyway," she resumed, "a hundred years ago, a disciple of one of our Supreme Elders attempted to break through to the Golden Core Realm inside this very secret realm. He could afford to take such a risk because he possessed a protection talisman from his master—one powerful enough to shield him from the secret realm's backlash."

Her voice grew more dramatic now, her hand subtly gesturing to the dark skies above.

"When he began his breakthrough, the same scene we're seeing today occurred. Thick, black-grey clouds gathered overhead. Lightning crackled, thunder roared—and just like that, tribulation began. That disciple held on. His will was unshakable. Not only did he endure the tribulation, but he succeeded in forming a Golden Core—one of the rare 7th Grade variety."

A collective gasp rippled through the group. Even Xue Lingxi leaned forward slightly, her usually cold demeanor giving way to curiosity. Apparently, even she hadn't heard this tale in full.

"What?!" came the startled cries from several disciples of other sects.

It was understandable. Among their seniors, even the most talented individuals had only managed to form 5th or, in rare cases, 6th Grade Cores. To think that the Verdant Sky Hall had produced someone with a 7th Grade Core—and had managed to keep it secret—was staggering.

Xu Mo stayed quiet, absorbing the information despite the unfamiliar terminology.

"And then," Shui Qingyi said slowly, "a golden portal appeared in the sky. Golden light pierced through the storm clouds and bathed the world in radiant brilliance. The entire scarlet realm shimmered beneath the glow."

She paused, then added, "But unfortunately, the disciple couldn't enter the portal. A Noble Stage Beast appeared—its strength terrifying. While he had just broken through, that beast had likely been at the Noble Stage for countless years. And beasts, as you all know, are stronger than humans at the same cultivation level."

"What happened then?" someone asked, eyes wide.

"The beast didn't kill him," Shui Qingyi answered. "But it stood guard beneath the horizontal golden portal, unmoving and unwavering. The disciple, wounded and exhausted, didn't give up. He tried again. But the moment he revealed malicious intent, the beast struck—just one casual punch."

Several gasped again.

"Fortunately, the talisman saved his life," she said. "He thought perhaps, now that he had broken through inside the realm, he'd be allowed to remain. But no—after that moment, nothing worked. Not even his master, a Void Shatter Realm cultivator, could help. Other Supreme Elders also tried. All their efforts were futile. Compared to the founder's design, their powers were laughable."

The silence that followed was profound. Even those who had scoffed earlier now looked at the black clouds with newfound respect—and dread.

Shui Qingyi glanced around and smiled faintly. "But why so serious? I said it was just a rumor, didn't I?" Her tone was light, but her eyes held meaning. Those familiar with her knew better—this wasn't idle gossip. As a Core Disciple, she was likely taught by someone who had firsthand knowledge of the incident.

"There's no smoke without fire," muttered Wei Rong from another sect, echoing the sentiment of many.

Xu Mo remained silent. Crowds had never been his preference, and large gatherings made him uneasy. Still, he had asked his question and received his answer—along with more information than he expected. Useful information.

As the clouds above continued to churn, the air itself seemed heavier. Whether it was treasure, inheritance, or tribulation—something profound was about to occur.

And all of them were walking straight into it.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know < report chapter > so we can fix it as soon as possible.