We soared across the skies for two days, the High Heaven Sect finally coming into view like a heavenly palace carved into the mountains. Towering peaks surrounded the sect, wrapped in swirling clouds and guarded by layers of shimmering spiritual formations.
As we descended, my presence did not go unnoticed. Disciples walking the stone paths paused, whispering amongst themselves.
"Who is he?"
"Is he a friend of Senior Shen?"
"His aura… it's different."
Shen Hua led me through the sect without hesitation, our path direct toward the Sect Leader's Hall. Along the way, I turned to him and asked, "Brother Shen, tell me honestly—why are you so insistent on bringing me to your sect? Did something happen?"
He gave a small laugh, as if caught. "So Brother Zhen noticed... Yes, actually. I'm not just any disciple—I'm the Young Master of the High Heaven Sect. In one year, we'll hold the Grand Sect Competition. Our sect… hasn't been doing well recently."
He sighed, then looked at me with conviction. "But I saw you. You broke through three times in just three days. That kind of talent isn't ordinary. I believe, with you on our side, we might win this time."
I scratched my head. "It's not that big a deal. I just had some lucky encounters, that's all. But about this competition—when does it start?"
"In one year," Shen Hua replied.
I thought for a moment, then smiled. "Alright. I'll join your sect—but I have a condition."
He stopped mid-step. "What kind of condition?"
"I want the freedom to journey and explore," I said. "But when the time comes, I promise—I'll return and win that competition for you."
Shen Hua stared at me, stunned. "Are you being serious right now?"
"Dead serious."
"…Alright," he said after a pause. "Let's go meet the Sect Leader."
We stepped into the Sect Leader's Hall, a vast chamber with spiritual engravings etched into the walls and a powerful presence looming in the air. At the center sat a man on a jade throne, his aura commanding yet calm.
Ding!
Name: Shen Hong
Level: Soul Transformation – 2nd Layer
[Description: High Heaven Sect Leader]
"Father, I've returned," Shen Hua said, bowing respectfully.
Shen Hong smiled slightly. "You completed your mission?"
"Yes," Shen Hua replied, revealing the beast's core. "And I brought someone important."
Shen Hong's sharp eyes turned to me. "Oh? And who might you be?"
I stepped forward and bowed. "Zhen Huan, a wandering cultivator. Shen Hua is my friend."
Shen Hong hummed thoughtfully. "And what brings you to my sect?"
Shen Hua quickly explained, "Father, Brother Zhen wants to join our sect. He can help us in the Grand Competition, but he wishes to continue his journey until then."
I nodded. "Sect Leader, I give you my word—I'll return when the sect calls upon me. Until then, I seek only the freedom to grow stronger."
Shen Hong stood and walked toward me. With a rare smile, he placed a firm hand on my shoulder.
"Hahaha! You're an interesting young man. Alright—I'll grant your request. But I have a condition of my own."
My eyes narrowed slightly. "What kind of condition?"
"You'll escort someone to the Western Continent for me."
"…Who?"
At that moment, a soft voice echoed behind us. "Yes, Father?"
A girl walked gracefully into the hall. Her presence was calm, her steps light as falling petals. Long dark hair framed her fair face, and her eyes held a quiet, resolute strength.
Ding!
Name: Meng Ruo
Level: Qi Refining – 7th Layer
[Description: Sect Leader's Daughter]
Shen Hong looked at me. "This is Meng Ruo—my daughter. She has business in the Western Continent. Escort her safely, and in return, you'll have my full support."
I glanced at Meng Ruo. She nodded politely but said nothing.
I exhaled, then smiled. "Very well. I accept."
Thus, a new journey was about to begin—not just for strength, but for fate itself.