Lei Chen's journey led him to a desolate mountain range, far removed from any known sect territory. Here, hidden within the dark peaks, lay one of the Black Veil Sect's many outposts. The sect had grown powerful by hiding in the shadows, away from the eyes of major sects. Their influence was insidious, creeping through the cracks of society.
Disguised as a wandering cultivator, Lei Chen approached the outpost. His heart pounded as he entered the foreboding gates. The air was thick with corrupted qi, and the disciples he passed had an eerie look about them—cold eyes and sunken features, as if their very life essence had been drained. This was what dark cultivation did to a person—it fed on their soul.
As he wandered through the outpost, Lei Chen couldn't help but feel a growing sense of unease. The Black Veil Sect wasn't just dangerous—it was a corrupting force that could consume him if he wasn't careful. But he had to push forward. His father's life depended on it.
In a dimly lit chamber, Lei Chen overheard two Black Veil disciples speaking.
"They say the old man still won't break," one of them muttered. "He's protecting something—an artifact that could make our sect unstoppable."
Lei Chen's heart raced. They were talking about his father.
Suddenly, a voice interrupted their conversation. "What's this? A new recruit?"
Lei Chen turned to see a tall, imposing figure approaching. The man was Qing Yuan, a former core disciple of the Celestial Sword Sect, now a member of the Black Veil Sect. His expression was cold, his aura oppressive.
"Your disguise is impressive, but not good enough to fool me," Qing Yuan said, his eyes narrowing. "What are you really doing here?"