Inner disciple Luna was grumbling under her breath, her footsteps echoing faintly in the stillness of the night. She stepped off her flying sword with a huff, her face set in a scowl that matched her sour mood.
She couldn't fathom how her day, which had begun with such promise, had spiraled into this maddening ordeal.
Earlier that morning, she had been diligently cultivating in her secluded courtyard, the crisp mountain air filling her lungs with renewed energy. She was so close—so tantalizingly close—to a breakthrough.
For months, she had dedicated herself to reaching the 6th stage of the Foundation Establishment Realm, her mind filled with dreams of ascending to the rank of a core disciple.
The honor, the prestige, and the resources that came with it were within her grasp.
But instead of continuing her cultivation, her plans had been abruptly derailed by a summons from Elder Michael.
