If it were just an ordinary advanced secret realm, it wouldn't necessitate such a grand mobilization of major powers and formidable beings.
However, the fact that so many forces and powerful individuals were defying norms to converge here suggested that this secret realm likely contained something immensely precious, something that drew everyone like moths to a flame.
John had an epiphany and asked Scarlett, "What exactly is inside that secret realm that could attract so many powerhouses and factions?"
Hearing John's question, Scarlett shook her head and replied,
"The secret realm hasn't been opened, so no one can be sure what's inside. However, some of Stellarburg's transcendent-tier powerhouses have sensed a force emanating from it. Their preliminary assessment is that the secret realm might contain remnants of a dark god's power, or even its legacy!"
At the mention of a dark god, John immediately thought of the gigantic mural he had seen in the church within the Phantom Ruins.
The mural depicted a dark god with wings, capable of apocalyptic destruction.
The "Crimson Key" in John's backpack was the key to unlocking its treasure.
This thought led John to a sudden speculation: Could it be possible that the Crimson Demon's treasure was hidden within this advanced secret realm?
A contemplative look appeared in John's eyes.
It wasn't an impossible scenario, as secret realms related to one another sometimes appeared in close proximity.
According to the textbooks, these secret realms were originally worlds unto themselves, which, after shattering, transformed into dungeons due to unknown reasons and descended into their world.
During the descent of these secret realms, it was common for fragments from the same world to end up in the same location.
Now, John was somewhat intrigued by the prospect of venturing into this advanced secret realm.
If there truly was a dark god's treasure inside, he might stand a chance at obtaining it, considering he alone possessed the "Crimson Key."
Others, even if they found the dark god's treasure, wouldn't be able to open it.
Yet, John eventually shook his head, dismissing the thought.
The secret realm was surely under the strict watch of the major powers.
Even if the dark god's treasure was indeed inside, he wouldn't be able to enter, let alone claim it.
John was about to abandon this idea and honestly look for a dungeon to level up in when Scarlett's words suddenly made him reconsider.
In the office, noticing John's silence, Scarlett decided to change the subject.
She smiled and said, "Let's not dwell on that. I have some good news for you. The person you saw downstairs, Victor, is the captain of the Red Gloves squad of Hidden Stars in the 301 Safe Zone. He has taken a special interest in you. If you want to join Hidden Stars, you can directly become his apprentice. This is an opportunity many people would not even dare to dream of."
John was somewhat astonished by this news; he hadn't expected such a fortunate turn of events!
He had heard of the special department "Hidden Stars."
It was a division dedicated to handling abnormal events, shrouded in mystery and operating in the shadows across various corners of the Federal system to maintain order in cities and safe zones.
Its members were rarely seen, all being elites selected through rigorous processes.
The fact that Scarlett was with the authorities was known to John, but he hadn't realized she was part of Hidden Stars!
To be honest, John was tempted.
Firstly, having the backing of a powerful faction would allow him to explain the rapid advancement in his strength without having to hide like a rat in the sewers.
Secondly, with the identity of a Hidden Stars member, he would have the chance to enter the advanced secret realm.
With various forces gearing up to enter the dungeon, the situation inside would be unpredictable.
But this also presented him with a golden opportunity to make hay while the sun shines.
In the office, an Echo Sprite had appeared beside Scarlett without notice.
Victor's calm voice emanated from within, saying, "Your talent and qualities are commendable. If you're willing, you can become an apprentice member of Hidden Stars today. Once you're officially in, you'll receive support from Federal resources this very month. However, the nature of work at Hidden Stars inevitably means you'll frequently face danger, so I hope you'll think it through. If you're unwilling, to each their own; I won't insist."
Hearing Victor's words, John's mind raced, and he quickly made up his mind.
He nodded and said, "I'm willing to join Hidden Stars, but I have one condition."
At John's response, Scarlett shot him an annoyed look, saying, "You really don't know when to stop, do you? People go to great lengths just to get a chance to join Hidden Stars, and here you are, making demands!"
John shrugged, replying, "Joining Hidden Stars means risking my life; I won't do it without some benefits."
Victor couldn't help but chuckle at the unexpected pragmatism.
His voice came through the Echo Sprite's tiny horn, "What do you want? As long as it's not too excessive, I can agree to it."
Scarlett was surprised that Victor actually seemed willing to accommodate John's request, a testament to how highly Victor regarded him.
John carefully phrased his request, "My condition is simple. I want to visit the upcoming advanced secret realm. I'm curious to see what an advanced secret realm is really like."
Secret realms, unlike dungeons, restrict the level of awakeners, but only to keep out those at higher levels, not lower ones.
This is because secret realms contain both high and low-level monsters.
However, few people venture into advanced secret realms without reaching the recommended level.
The dangers within an undeveloped secret realm are incomparable to those of dungeons, where a single misstep could lead to death.
Hearing John's words, Scarlett immediately stood up, protesting, "No, you can't go! That's an advanced secret realm. Even transcendental-tier masters can face dangers inside, and you, a newly awakened mage, entering would be tantamount to seeking death!"
Victor added, "I urge you to reconsider. If you really want to see a secret realm, why not visit a lower-level one? The advanced secret realm is fraught with dangers, and even I can't guarantee your safety."
But John was unwavering, firmly stating, "My mind is made up. Don't worry; I'll only explore the lower-level areas of the secret realm and won't venture into the advanced zones. I'm not looking to die."
Seeing his resolve, Victor said no more.
After a moment of thought, he said, "The timing and personnel for entering the secret realm by various forces have already been arranged. Everyone will enter the advanced secret realm tomorrow morning. I'll make some adjustments for you. Be prepared, and if you do die in there, don't say we didn't warn you."
With that, the Echo Sprite fell silent, signaling Victor had ended the communication.
Scarlett was somewhat annoyed but, seeing John's determination, she eventually sighed.
She took out a translucent, crystalline stone from her storage ring and handed it to John, saying, "You can't use resurrection items in the secret realm. This is a Random Teleportation Stone. If you encounter danger in the secret realm, crush it. It will teleport you to a random location within a ten-kilometer radius, allowing you to temporarily escape danger."
John was taken aback, looking at the stone.
[Item]: Random Teleportation Stone
[Type]: Consumable
[Quality]: Precious
[Requirement]: None
[Description]: Upon use, you will be randomly teleported to a location within ten kilometers.
This teleportation stone was undoubtedly an invaluable lifesaving item, and John was about to refuse it immediately.
Such an item was not like the staff or storage ring he had been given before; the teleportation stone was far too precious.
But before John could speak, Scarlett sighed, "I have more of these teleportation stones. Take this one. You're going into the advanced secret realm tomorrow, so I'll let you off for today. If you come back alive from the secret realm, I'll deal with you then. Now go and prepare. You must come back alive."
John's expression was complex as he nodded solemnly and turned to leave the Dark Forest bar.
Time passed quickly, and before he knew it, it was the next day.
John rose before dawn.
As he opened the door, he found a neatly folded set of black uniform laid out in front of his house, adorned with a badge depicting a red and white glove clasping a long sword, and a small, exquisite earpiece beside it. It must have been sent by Victor.
John had barely put on the uniform and earpiece when Victor's voice came through, "The secret realm is about to open. All Hidden Stars members, gather at the Dark Forest bar!"