A week after the trials, life at Scarlet Cloud Valley settled into a rhythm. Evelyn's days were filled with rigorous training, meditation, and classes on cultivation techniques. The structured environment pushed her to her limits, but she relished the challenge. Every ache and bruise was proof of her progress.
One morning, as the sun cast its first golden rays over the valley, the sect's bell rang out—a deep, resonant sound that reverberated through the mountains. Disciples paused their activities, exchanging curious glances.
"What's going on?" Clara asked as she joined Evelyn and Finn in the courtyard.
"It's the summoning bell," Finn replied, his voice tinged with excitement. "It means something important is about to be announced."
The disciples gathered in the central square, where the sect leader—a dignified man with sharp features and an air of authority—stood flanked by the elders. His presence commanded immediate silence.
"Disciples," he began, his voice carrying across the square, "an extraordinary opportunity has presented itself. A secret realm has appeared on the outskirts of the Misty Ridge."
Gasps rippled through the crowd.
"The secret realm will remain open for only ten days," the sect leader continued. "It is a place of great danger but also immense reward. Treasures, rare herbs, and powerful artifacts lie within its depths. However, only those who meet the requirements will be permitted to enter."
Evelyn's heart raced. A secret realm—this was exactly the kind of opportunity she needed to advance her cultivation.
"The selection trials will be held tomorrow," the sect leader announced. "Prepare yourselves well. Only the strongest and most capable disciples will be chosen."
Back in their quarters, Evelyn and her group discussed the announcement.
"I'm definitely entering those trials," Marcus declared, his usual bravado on full display. "Think of the treasures we could find in there!"
Clara looked less certain. "But it sounds dangerous. What if we're not strong enough?"
"It's dangerous, yes," Finn said quietly, "but the rewards could be life-changing. I'll compete."
Evelyn nodded. "Me too. If we want to grow stronger, we can't afford to let this chance slip by."
The next day, the selection trials began. The sect's training grounds had been transformed into a series of challenges designed to test the disciples' strength, agility, and intelligence.
The first challenge was a combat gauntlet. Disciples were pitted against enchanted dummies that moved with surprising speed and precision. Evelyn focused on reading their movements, using her agility and quick reflexes to outmaneuver them. Her strategy paid off, and she advanced to the next round.
The second challenge tested problem-solving skills. Disciples were given a series of puzzles to solve under a strict time limit. Evelyn's sharp mind and ability to stay calm under pressure helped her breeze through.
The final challenge was a test of endurance. Disciples had to climb a steep, rocky cliff while carrying weights, all while being bombarded by gusts of wind conjured by senior disciples. Evelyn gritted her teeth as the wind whipped against her face, her muscles burning with effort. But she refused to give up, her determination driving her forward.
By the end of the trials, Evelyn was among the top scorers.
That evening, the list of selected disciples was posted in the central square. Evelyn's name was near the top, alongside Finn, Marcus, and several other familiar faces. Clara, however, hadn't made the cut.
"It's okay," Clara said, forcing a smile when Evelyn offered her condolences. "The secret realm isn't the only way to get stronger. I'll keep working hard here."
Evelyn hugged her friend tightly, grateful for her support.
The next morning, the selected disciples gathered at the sect's main gate, where the elders and senior disciples waited to escort them to the secret realm.
Elder Raymond stepped forward, his expression serious. "Remember, the secret realm is not a place for carelessness. Work together, but trust no one completely. The treasures you seek will not come easily."
With those words of caution, the group set off toward the Misty Ridge.
The journey to the secret realm was grueling. The path wound through dense forests and treacherous terrain, the air growing colder and heavier with each step. By the time they reached the entrance, a shimmering portal set into the mountainside, even the most seasoned disciples looked uneasy.
The portal pulsed with an otherworldly light, its surface rippling like water.
"This is it," Elder Raymond said. "Beyond this portal lies the secret realm. Be vigilant, and may fortune favor you."
One by one, the disciples stepped through the portal. When it was Evelyn's turn, she took a deep breath and squared her shoulders.
This is my chance, she thought. I won't waste it.
She stepped into the portal, the world around her dissolving into light.
When Evelyn emerged on the other side, she found herself in a vast, otherworldly landscape. The sky was a swirling mix of colors, and the ground was covered in luminescent moss. Strange plants and towering crystal formations dotted the terrain, their surfaces shimmering with energy.
The air was thick with spiritual energy, far richer than anything Evelyn had ever experienced. She could feel it pulsing against her skin, invigorating her body and sharpening her senses.
But as she took in her surroundings, a low growl made her freeze. Turning slowly, she saw a pair of glowing red eyes staring at her from the shadows.
Her heart pounded as a massive beast stepped into the light, its fur bristling and its fangs glinting menacingly.
Evelyn tightened her grip on her staff, her mind racing. The secret realm isn't going to make this easy. But I'm ready.