The choice Lei Tian made within the Veil Beyond reverberated in his heart as the kaleidoscopic realm dissolved around him. He found himself standing on a mountainside, a crisp wind carrying the scent of pine and blossoms. Ahead, a sprawling sect came into view—a magnificent complex of towering pagodas, glimmering waterfalls, and training grounds bustling with activity.
A banner waved high above the gates, bearing the symbol of a soaring azure phoenix. This was the Azure Sky Sect, one of the most prestigious martial sects in the region, known for its mastery of Void techniques and its emphasis on cultivating both mind and body.
Lei Tian tightened his grip on his sword. He had heard of the Azure Sky Sect before—its reputation as a haven for those seeking to hone their skills and uncover the mysteries of the Void was unmatched. If he was to grow stronger and uncover the truth behind his powers, this was the place to begin.
Cultivation Levels
Within the Azure Sky Sect, strength and progress were measured by cultivation levels, each representing a profound milestone in the journey of a martial artist:
1. Foundation Realm - The first step, where one refines their body and gathers spiritual energy.
2. Spirit Vein Realm - Where veins of energy are opened, allowing for smoother flow of power.
3. Core Condensation Realm - The stage of forming a core of energy, a mark of true mastery.
4. Nascent Void Realm - Where one gains insight into the Void, unlocking unique Void techniques.
5. Void Ascension Realm - Masters of this realm command vast Void energy and are revered as elites.
Lei Tian's current strength lay at the early Spirit Vein Realm, a respectable achievement for his age but far from the heights needed to challenge the sect's best. However, Lei Tian had one critical advantage: his true power, derived from the Veil Beyond, remained hidden from everyone. He kept it a closely guarded secret, fearing the consequences of exposure.
As he approached the gates, a sharp voice called out. "State your purpose, stranger!"
A young woman stepped forward, her posture firm and her gaze sharp. She wore the sect's signature azure robes, and a short sword hung at her hip. Her presence was commanding, but there was a glimmer of curiosity in her eyes as she studied Lei Tian.
"My name is Lei Tian," he said, bowing slightly. "I seek entry into the Azure Sky Sect to refine my skills and pursue the path of cultivation."
The woman crossed her arms. "Entry isn't given so easily. You'll need to prove yourself in the Initiation Trial. Are you prepared?"
Lei Tian nodded. "I am."
She gestured for him to follow. "Then come. The trial begins at sunrise."
The Initiation Trial took place in a secluded valley behind the sect. Dozens of aspirants had gathered, each radiating a unique aura of determination. The trial was simple in concept but grueling in execution: climb the "Sky Staircase," a treacherous path winding up a cliff, while enduring waves of spiritual pressure that intensified with every step.
"Only those who reach the summit within the allotted time will be admitted," a senior disciple announced. "Fail, and you may try again in the next season… if you survive."
The aspirants exchanged nervous glances, but Lei Tian's resolve was unwavering. As the trial began, he felt the crushing weight of the spiritual pressure almost immediately. Each step was a battle, his muscles straining and his Void energy flickering under the strain.
But Lei Tian's journey through the Veil Beyond had hardened him. He drew upon the lessons he had learned, stabilizing his breathing and channeling his energy in steady waves. Despite his quiet resolve, his progress was unremarkable in the eyes of the observers. Many aspirants surpassed him, their natural talent and overt displays of power earning them praise.
By the time he reached the summit, Lei Tian's body was battered, but his spirit burned brighter than ever. At the top, a group of senior disciples awaited, their expressions ranging from indifferent to dismissive.
"You barely made it," one disciple remarked. "But the rules are the rules. Welcome to the Azure Sky Sect, Initiate Lei Tian."
Lei Tian bowed deeply, hiding his frustration. He could sense their judgment—to them, he was nothing special. But he vowed to prove them wrong, in his own time and way.
Over the following weeks, Lei Tian immersed himself in the sect's rigorous training regimen. However, his reserved nature and average performance during training sessions made it difficult to stand out. Most of the other disciples dismissed him as a mediocre talent, unworthy of their attention.
Lei Tian's secretive approach to his cultivation and his reluctance to rely on his hidden powers left him isolated. He ate alone, trained alone, and spent hours in the sect's library studying obscure Void techniques. His only interactions were brief and often curt, with the exception of Lin Yue, a quiet yet brilliant disciple known for her mastery of formation techniques. She, too, preferred solitude and occasionally offered Lei Tian a rare smile or word of encouragement.
Despite their shared demeanor, Lei Tian and Lin Yue's exchanges were limited. He valued her presence but avoided forming deeper bonds, afraid his secrets might one day put others in danger.
One evening, Lei Tian was summoned to the sect's Grand Hall. There, he stood before the sect's elder, Elder Feng, a stern yet wise figure whose presence commanded respect.
"Lei Tian," Elder Feng began, his voice measured. "Your progress has been modest, but every disciple must contribute to the sect. A disturbance has been reported in the nearby Shadowfall Forest. You, Lin Yue, and another disciple will investigate. Be cautious—the forest harbors dangers that even seasoned cultivators fear."
Lei Tian bowed. "I will do my best, Elder Feng."
As he left the hall, whispers followed him. "Why send him?" a voice muttered. "He's barely capable of holding his own."
Lei Tian ignored the murmurs, his resolve hardening. He would face the Shadowfall Forest and its challenges, not for the approval of his peers, but to test himself. He had chosen a path of restraint and secrecy, and it was one he intended to walk until the time was right to reveal his true power.