he Nine Heavens Continent, Divine Land of Chaos.
Once the most powerful sanctuary, it had declined since the Chaos Emperor's ascension. Yet on this disciple recruitment day, nobles and geniuses from surrounding kingdoms still flocked to its gates. Though diminished, the Divine Land remained among the continent's top powers.
"Finally... I'm inside!" Xiao Yun pushed through the crowd into the vast plaza. Ignoring surrounding chatter, he closed his eyes to check his system.
System Interface
Function: Grant Epiphany
Remaining Uses: 1 (Mental Activation)
Current Quest: Enter Divine Land of Chaos [Completed]
Tears welled in Xiao Yun's eyes. Sixteen years in this world, and he'd finally completed the first quest.
"Ding! New Quest: Join Divine Land. Reward: 3 Epiphany Charges."
The gray-robed Elder on the platform spoke: "I am the Reception Elder. Our trial is simple: strike the Chaos Bell!"
He flicked a finger, tearing space open. A primordial bell emerged, its descent shaking souls.
"This is the Chaos Bell—the Emperor's divine weapon!" the crowd murmured.
Xiao Yun stared greedily. If only he could own such a treasure...
Candidates touched the bell. Most vanished in golden light—rejected and sent home.
"Don't panic," the Elder said. "The bell returns failures to their homes."
Xiao Yun chuckled. "Free return ticket!" But he vowed to stay.
After endless failures, a DONG finally echoed.
"One chime. Outer Sect disciple," the Elder declared emotionlessly.
Someone asked: "How many chimes are possible?"
The Elder explained:
1 chime: Outer Sect
2: Inner Sect
3: True Disciple
...
9: Divine Child
Hours passed. Only hundreds passed among millions tested. The Elder's face darkened.
"Each generation worsens..." he sighed, knowing other sanctuaries stole early-blooming geniuses.
Finally, Xiao Yun's turn came.
His palm touched cold bronze. Golden text flooded his mind—Chaos Guide.
"System, use Epiphany!"
Clarity struck. The scripture taught how to borrow the bell's power. Mastery meant controlling it at Saint realm.
Outside, the bell trembled.
DONG...