The crowd roared with excitement as the ten winners stood on the grand stage.

In the Core Formation division stood Caelum, Dentos, Hughie, Ironius, and Ziven.

Caelum watched the crowd calmly, while Hughie grinned and played up to the attention. Dentos' eyes darted around rapidly, every so often it would fall on Slifer before quickly moving on. Ironius stared straight ahead, face an emotionless mask. Ziven had a small smirk on his face, drinking in the cheers.

The winners of the Foundation Establishment division were Zack, Nomed, William, Maria, and Arva.

Up in the elders’ booth, Zofia eyed the Black Rose disciples on stage.

"My, isn't this a fascinating turn of events?" she chuckled. "I seem to recall in all the past tournaments, the Black Rose disciples were lucky to even qualify, much less dominate the finals."

Zofia turned, regarding Slifer with a lofty gaze. "Yet now in your sect's first time hosting, your people suddenly overrun the top ranks. How very...convenient."

"It's simple, Supreme Elder Zofia. Our standards for selection have risen while yours seem to have fallen." Slifer paused, smirking. "Perhaps if you spent less time nitpicking the tournament format and more whipping your disciples into shape, the results wouldn't sting quite so much."

Supreme Elder Astrid cut in before Zofia could retort. "It seems the Heaven's Light Sect only sing praises when they are on the winning side. Once the tables turn, all we hear are complaints and excuses."

Zofia scowled but held her tongue. She had hoped the other elders would agree with her, allowing her to put pressure on the Black Rose Sect. This many demonic cultivators just didn’t deserve to enter the Sealed Realm!

Down below, Zack studied his fellow disciples. The two female cultivators, Maria and Arva, seemed distinctly average based on their tournament performances. Nothing for him to worry about.

No, the real threats here were the Core Formation monsters like that emotionless Ironius, and especially that smug pretty boy Ziven who kept throwing the Main Body dirty looks.

Speaking of Ziven, the arrogant Son of Heaven glanced up at the Heavenly Light Sect's private booth, smirking as he noticed a particular blond-haired youth.

Arkan, the so-called Legacy Disciple, sat slumped in his seat, eyes hollow and broken as he stared at the stage.

Ziven shook his head in disappointment. He had expected more from the Legacy Disciple. The so-called genius had utterly embarrassed himself against that lunatic Dentos. So much for living up to his hype.

Ziven's expression turned serious as he regarded the Black Rose disciples. In particular, Caelum and Dentos concerned him most as potential obstacles. He would need to be cautious of them in the Sealed Realm, as both seemed difficult opponents right now.

His gaze drifted to the Supreme Elder of the Black Rose Sect, as he pictured the old demon's look of shock when none of his precious disciples returned alive. Oh, how he would savour that moment!

"Congratulations to the victors!" Elder Fred's voice boomed, interrupting Ziven's fantasies. "Remember to rest up tonight, as tomorrow the Supreme Elders will open the gateway into the Sealed Realm. I wish you all good fortune on your journey!"

With those words still ringing in the air, the disciples bowed before making their exit. The tournament was done. Now the real trial began.

***

Back at Slifer’s compound, Slifer sat with his disciples to offer some praise and advice before the big day.

He started with Caelum, his top disciple. "Caelum, you have done me proud as always. Stay vigilant and remember to take care of your juniors in the Sealed Realm."

"Thank you, Master. I’ll make sure nothing happens to them," Caelum dipped his head.

Hearing that he had made Slifer proud gave him a fuzzy feeling in his chest, he wasn’t used to his master complimenting him.

Slifer turned next to Hughie, his expression growing stern. "As for you, while I applaud the...unconventional route to victory, such luck won't hold forever. Take things seriously in the Sealed Realm unless you fancy an early death."

The young man shrugged sheepishly under his master's scrutiny. "Hey hey, no worries! I'll be careful...probably."

With a resigned sigh, Slifer faced his avatar Zack. "And that advice goes double for you. I know your strength, but do not get complacent."

Zack nodded along absently. Of course, the Main Body had to put on this show for appearances. Once inside the Sealed Realm, he would be all business. And like the Main Body repeatedly reminded him, the priority was making sure he came out of this alive.

After all, he was just starting to enjoy life - no need to cut it short so soon!

When Slifer's eyes fell upon Nomed, the Supreme Elder paused thoughtfully.

According to Morvran's reports, the child was a complete enigma. An orphan with no known family or history, who when growing up in the village would mysteriously disappear for days on end, only to reappear out of the blue. Highly suspicious behaviour that suggested the boy’s background was not simple.

Clearing his throat, Slifer addressed the orphan. "Nomed, you performed remarkably well, especially for one so... inexperienced. I did not expect you to not only reach the finals, but win. It seems even I underestimated your talent."

"Thank you, Master. It was all thanks to your teachings," Nomed replied with a humble bow.

But his respectful tone and measured words rang hollow to Slifer's ears. Clearly the boy held no true loyalty. A spy perhaps? Either way, the kid had earned his slot to the Sealed Realm. It would bring up too many questions if Slifer were to forcefully take it away.

Zack will keep a close eye on you in there and if it comes to it…eliminate you.

The last thing Slifer wanted to do was kill one of his own disciples, but could a traitor truly be considered a disciple?

Shaking his head, Slifer turned to his only female disciple. The girl kept her head low, hair obscuring her face after the day's humiliating defeat.

"The rest of you are dismissed for now," Slifer said at last. "Amelia, stay a moment."

After the other disciples had shuffled out, Amelia finally lifted her head. Her porcelain features were drawn and sullen, full lips pressed thin.

"You're disappointed," Slifer said after a moment. It wasn't a question.

"How could I not be?" Amelia burst out angrily. "I was made a complete fool of! In front of everyone, no less. Worst of all, by that...that nobody from the Black Death Sect," she spat the name like a curse.

"So, your pride is wounded," Slifer concluded.

Amelia bit her lip, clearly fighting back a snippy retort. Eventually she murmured, "I just...don't understand how I could lose so badly. I've never..."

"Never suffered a defeat before," Slifer finished gently. "And it's for that very reason this experience will benefit you greatly."

Seeing Amelia's sceptical look, he went on. "You have always enjoyed tormenting your enemies. Humiliating them physically and mentally before moving in for the kill. I've warned you many times of the dangers of such arrogance. And today, you finally received a taste of your own medicine."

Amelia winced but didn't deny his words.

"The path of cultivation is a harsh one. Loss, pain, humiliation - all disciples must endure these trials at some point,” Slifer's expression softened. “The question is, will you let this crush you? Or will you learn from it and grow stronger?"

"Master, you've been... humiliated before?" Amelia asked, her eyes widening.

She had never expected that her master, the Supreme Elder of the Black Rose Sect, had been beaten to a pulp publicly.

Me? I get humiliated enough by the System as it is, Slifer shook his head. I'd rather die than have some arrogant young master slap me around.

As much as Slifer loved to blame the System for it's...strange attitude towards him, he had to admit it did a good job at protecting him.

But that's only because it seems to need me for this "destroy all evil" mission...

A long silence followed as Amelia waited for her master to reply.

"Your Senior Brother Tyrus leaving was enough humiliation for a dozen lifetimes," Slifer murmured, trying to give her the impression that it took a lot out of him to admit that.

It was technically true, the Original seemed to have been driven crazy by his eldest disciple's departure.

Why else would the old fool chase after him when he had just failed his Origin Realm breakthrough?

Amelia nodded slowly, digesting her master's words. When she finally spoke, her voice was almost a whisper. "You're right, Master. I've been too prideful. Toying with my opponents, laughing at their pain...I realise I can’t continue on like that." She took a deep breath. "I…I will try to change."

"That is all I ask," Slifer said, feeling a small glow of satisfaction.

Ding!

Your Disciple Amelia Has Experienced Significant Character Growth!

Reward: 1000 Karmic Credits

Amelia’s Loyalty Has Increased By 10%

Slifer nodded to himself. It seemed the System truly valued him nurturing his disciples’ character and integrity. He was more than happy to oblige if it meant more Karmic Credits.

Speaking of rewards... A sly glint entered Slifer's eyes. "You know, it just so happens I have something that will lift your spirits."

Amelia lifted her head warily, scepticism written clearly across her face.

Grinning, Slifer announced, "You will take the final slot to enter the Sealed Realm!"

“What?” Amelia's head jerked up in shock. In her misery, she had forgotten that her master held one reserve slot. "But Master, not only did I lose but I was humiliated. I…I don't deserve it."

"Nonsense.” Slifer waved dismissively. “It was my plan all along to award the reserve slot should one of you unexpectedly fail to qualify. Consider it a second chance to prove yourself."

In truth, Slifer knew the Sealed Realm offered greater opportunities to earn Karmic Credits than remaining outside. But Amelia didn't need to know that.

"Th-thank you, Master!" Amelia stammered. "I swear I’ll bring you back something from the Sealed Realm!”

I’m counting on it…

***

The Great Wolf tavern was bustling with activity. Patrons laughed and slammed down cups. The air smelled of roasted meat, spilled ale and tobacco smoke.

In one corner, a group of musicians played a lively tune on lute, fiddle and drum.

The noise softened for a moment as the front door banged open.

A young man in black robes strode in, his handsome features set in a scowl. The tavern's conversations stuttered to a halt as all eyes turned towards this new arrival. They could sense the aura of power radiating from him - this was no ordinary customer.

The youth marched right up to the bar, where an old man was filling tankards from the tap. He slammed down a golden coin on the counter.

"Clear this place out for the next few hours," he ordered the gaping owner. With a flick of his sleeve, the gold coin floated into the man's hand.

The author's tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

"Of course, Young Master! Right away!" The owner bowed repeatedly, clutching the coin tightly. This amount of money would cover his establishment's expenses for a month. Not to mention, angering an immortal cultivator over something so trivial wasn't worth risking his life.

"Sorry folks, we're closing early tonight! Finish your drinks and be on your way now!" The owner said as he began ushering patrons outside.

"Ah, come on, I just got my ale!"

"You can't kick us out without any bloody warning!"

"Hey, I wasn't finished!"

The owner waved his hands desperately. "I'm real sorry, but you all need to clear out immediately!" He jerked his head meaningfully at the glowering disciple.

Finally understanding dawned in the patrons' eyes. Their protests died away as they sensed the dangerous atmosphere. With many backward glances and muttered curses, the crowd began funnelling towards the exit.

But a large, burly man in particular seemed intent on staying behind.

"Bah! These so-called immortals think they own the damn place," he grumbled loudly. "I paid good coin for my drink and I ain't leavin' till it's finished!"

He demonstratively gulped down his ale, dripping foam through his bushy whiskers. Then he belched thunderously in the direction of the black-robed youth.

His friends paled and edged away. "Erwin you fool, are you trying to get us killed? Let's get out of here!"

But Erwin refused to budge, staring challengingly at the disciple with bloodshot eyes.

The black-robed youth's features remained impassive. He glanced at the tavern owner, who was wringing his hands anxiously.

The black-robed youth sighed, then suddenly appeared before the drunkard in a blur of motion. "I believe it's time for you to leave."

Before anyone could react, his hand lashed out faster than the eye could follow, delivering a slap to the brute's face. The man was launched sideways, crashing through tables and chairs before slamming into the far wall. He slumped to the floor, unconscious.

A hushed silence descended on the tavern. The remaining patrons scrambled over each other in their haste to flee out the doors. In seconds, the tavern was empty.

The young man sighed, nudging a broken chair with his foot. "Just look at this mess. Now I have to tidy up before the others arrive."

The tavern owner stood frozen, unsure whether he should try offering assistance or flee for his life. In the end, he decided to run.

The disciple gathered up the debris strewn around the tavern with surprising meticulousness, arranging the remaining furniture neatly. Within a few minutes, the common room was again presentable.

At that moment the entrance creaked open.

Jin's eyes widened as they settled on the new arrival - it was Lucious, the Sect Leader’s disciple!

"Greetings, Senior Brother!"

Lucious glanced around the vacant tavern before settling his gaze on Jin. "Yes, this should work well enough if things get...messy."

Jin shuddered at the implication but nodded in agreement. A meeting between the top cultivators of the younger generation could easily get heated.

“Now, prepare us some tea."

"Yes, Young Master!" Jin scurried away, sending a tea service flying through the air onto an intact table. Hands shaking, he carefully poured steaming tea into two ceramic cups.

Lucious picked his up, blowing gently before taking a sip.

Jin shifted anxiously from foot to foot. Not only would this be the first gathering between the top disciples of the younger generation from the major sects, but also the first and only time they would enter the Sealed Realm.

Noticing his discomfort, Lucious inclined his head slightly. "You may take your leave. Do not let anyone else enter until I say so."

"Of course, Young Master!" Jin retreated hastily out the front door.

Alone now, Lucious settled in to wait, absently swirling the tea leaves at the bottom of his cup. He needed his mind clear for the meeting, this would be his first time meeting some of them.

The creak of the door opening snapped Lucious from his thoughts.

He glanced up as the number one Core Formation disciple from the Pure Soul Sect– Celestia – entered the tavern. Her golden hair swayed behind her as she walked towards him.

"Greetings, brother Lucious," she said politely, if somewhat reservedly.

"Sister Celestia,” Lucious inclined his head. “I'm pleased you accepted my invitation."

Her answering smile didn't reach her eyes. "If it was brother Lucious himself then how could I refuse?"

Lucious nodded, “Have a seat.”

Celestia settled down on a chair across from Lucious. An awkward silence descended on them as neither seemed inclined to continue the conversation.

After a few minutes, the door creaked open again and a tall, muscular woman with snow white hair strode in. Her icy blue eyes scanned the room before settling on Lucious and Celestia.

"Sister Larissa, please sit down."

"So, I'm not the first...pity." Larissa completely ignored Lucious as she sat down, focusing her attention on Celestia. "Hello, sister Celestia."

"Sister Larissa, it has been too long! I believe the last time we met was at the Zhongyuan Festival, a year ago?” Celestia smiled back warmly. “I'm glad to see you well."

"Hmph. Save the pleasantries," Larissa said bluntly, though not unkindly. "I've no patience for that today."

Before Celestia could respond, the door swung open again and in came the Black Heart Sect’s Horocus. He was a young man with a pale complexion and red piercing eyes.

As Horocus approached, Lucious noticed faint tension in the man's shoulders and the way his smile seemed forced. With his sect leader missing, it was no wonder Horocus seemed on edge.

"Hello there, friends," Horocus said, taking a seat. "Quite a rare gathering we have here." His eyes darted around the group, as if expecting an attack at any moment.

"Just two more and we'll be ready to begin," Lucious replied. Right on cue, the door opened, and a handsome, silver-haired youth strode in, smiling brightly.

"Apologies for my tardiness, friends," Raphael laughed. "I hope I didn’t keep you waiting too long?"

"Not at all, we only just arrived ourselves," Celestia replied whilst the others nodded.

Lucious noticed Raphael's smile falter briefly when he scanned the room, clearly having expected to be the last arrival. Trying to assert dominance by being fashionably late? How droll.

As Raphael sat down, the five disciples simply observed one another, silently taking stock.

The tension in the room was palpable.

Horocus spoke up, "It seems Arcavious won't be joining us. I haven't been able to contact him… I don’t think he’s interested in whatever this meeting is about.”

Not surprised that the reclusive Black Death genius decided not to attend, Lucious cleared his throat.

"Shall we get down to business then?" At their nods, he continued, "As you know, we all plan to enter the Sealed Realm tomorrow. I called this meeting so we may...discuss arrangements, for how to handle things inside."

"Spare me your slick words,” Larissa snorted. “There's nothing to understand in the Sealed Realm beyond the obvious - take what you want by any means necessary."

They were all too prideful in their own abilities to team up with even members of their own sect so why would they be interested in working with each other?"

“In theory, yes that is how things are usually done there,” Lucious turned to her. “But why waste time fighting amongst ourselves and giving others the chance to take the spoils from under our noses?”

Larissa's eyes narrowed but she stayed silent.

"You make a reasonable case, brother Lucious,” Celestia chimed in. “What arrangement did you have in mind?"

Inwardly, Lucious smiled. The Pure Soul disciple's reaction was predictable - spineless and eager to avoid conflict. As if reading his thoughts, Larissa shot Celestia a disgusted look.

"It's simple. We divide the Realm into five territories, one for each of us," Lucious explained. "Your word that you won't cross into another's territory, and they shall extend the same courtesy."

Raphael tapped his fingers on the table. "And if one territory proves less…bountiful than the rest?" He posed the question innocently, but his meaning was clear: he would never accept less than the lion's share.

"The Sealed Realm is vast," Lucious countered calmly. "I doubt that will be an issue. Unless you're afraid you can't hold your own portion?"

Raphael's eyes narrowed; he wasn’t worried about the disciples who had earned their slot through competing in the Intersect Tournament. No, the only cultivators he had to be wary of were those sitting here beside him.

"A sensible proposal,” Horocus agreed.

But Larissa looked anything but convinced, turning on Horocus with a sneer. "Look at you, scurrying to make a truce the moment your master disappears. How pathetic."

Horocus flushed but he held his tongue. Larissa was known to be crude and provocative.

"Enough." Celestia's gentle voice cut through the tension. "I also agree to this arrangement."

All eyes turned to Raphael and Larissa.

Raphael gave an exaggerated sigh. "Well, I was hoping we could settle this through outright battle to determine who was the strongest between us...but I suppose this could work as well." He paused, meeting each of their eyes. "Oh, and I'll be taking the central region."

Lucious nodded, having expected as much from the arrogant Heavenly Light disciple.

Larissa growled, unsatisfied, but gave a terse nod. "North region for me then."

In the end, Lucious claimed the eastern quarter for himself. Horocus took the west, and Celestia the south.

With the territories divided up, Lucious clasped his hands together. "It's decided then. We enter the Sealed Realm as…allies." His tone sounded sincere, but inwardly, a cold smile tugged at Lucious' lips.

There would be no honouring of boundaries within the Sealed Realm, regardless of what promises exchanged hands today. Even Celestia and Larissa could not be so naive as to fully trust each other's word.

No, this meeting accomplished its true purpose: to know the starting location of his “allies” and to gain a better understanding of them.

Horocus was a paranoid mess who could easily be manipulated.

Raphael, like any other Heavenly Light Sect disciple, had an ego problem.

Larissa was quick to anger and could be lured to her death.

And Celestia...well, the Peacemaker lived up to her reputation, willing to compromise to avoid conflict.

Now, if he were to reach the Nascent Soul Realm first, he would be able to hunt his fellow Legacy Disciples one by one, starting with the most arrogant one first of course.

But to breakthrough before them, I need to keep them distracted…

And that is where the newbies come into play. Oh yes, he has had his eyes on the Supreme Elder’s disciples for a while now.

Whilst he didn’t expect any of them to actually defeat the Legacy Disciples, he felt they would be able to keep them entertained until he was ready.

Now, time to introduce myself as the benevolent Senior Brother…