The dense canopy of the Wilds cast elongated shadows as Elder Jianyu led his five core disciples through the dense underbrush of the Wilds, their senses heightened to the myriad dangers lurking within. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and decaying foliage, and the distant cries of unseen creatures echoed around them. Each disciple, having surpassed the 5th level of Qi Condensation, moved with practiced stealth, though their true strength lay in combat, a testament to Elder Jianyu's own martial prowess.

They had made swift progress since the order was issued from the sect. They used their strength and concealment techniques to make short work of any beast that crossed their path or to avoid it entirely. Elder Jianyu, a particularly formidable cultivator at the peak of the 9th level of Qi Condensation, had deliberately postponed his advancement to the Foundation Establishment stage, recognizing that the lands bordering the Wilds were deficient in spiritual energy, lacking the necessary resources for a smooth breakthrough.

As they navigated a narrow, winding path, the group halted abruptly. Ahead, a contingent of Iron Tower Sect members trudged along, their arms laden with supplies. Elder Jianyu's eyes narrowed, recognizing an opportunity. He gestured silently, and his disciples dispersed into the surrounding foliage, positioning themselves for an ambush.

With a subtle disturbance, a rustle of leaves, a snapped twig, the rearmost Iron Tower Sect member paused, glancing nervously into the shadows. Curiosity piqued; the straggler veered off to investigate. Seizing the moment, two disciples lunged forward, their movements swift and precise. In a flash, the team sprang into action. With swift precision, they subdued the isolated sect member, rendering him unconscious and dragging him deeper into the forest.

As he regained consciousness, panic flickered in his eyes. He struggled trying to free himself from the clutches of his captors.

In a secluded clearing, the captive was bound and forced to his knees before Elder Jianyu. The elder's gaze was cold, his voice a low growl.

This novel is published on a different platform. Support the original author by finding the official source.

"Speak. What is the Iron Tower Sect planning in these Wilds?"

The captive hesitated, sweat beading on his brow. A disciple unsheathed a blade, its edge gleaming ominously.

"Wait! I'll talk!" the man stammered. "The Iron Tower Sect... we've discovered a secret realm deep within the Wilds. It's filled with heaven grade herbs, perfect for those at the Foundation Establishment stage.”

A murmur ran through the disciples. Such resources could elevate their sect's standing immensely.

"There's more," the captive continued, sweat beading on his forehead. "We've allied with Medicine Valley to exploit the realm's treasures."

“If you harm me, the sect will find out and come after you” stammered the youth. “Please release me and I won’t say a word about what happened”

Elder Jianyu's expression darkened. Medicine Valley was renowned for their medicinal and alchemical prowess. Such an alliance posed a significant threat.

"You've been most helpful," Elder Jianyu said, a chilling finality in his tone.

Before the captive could react, a swift strike ended his life. The team then meticulously staged the scene, using blades to mimic the claw marks of a ferocious beast, ensuring the body appeared to be a victim of the Wilds' dangers.

As they retreated, Elder Jianyu gathered his disciples. "This discovery changes our mission. We must inform the sect leaders of this secret realm and the impending threat of the Iron Tower and Medicine Valley."

"Lin Yue, prepare to send a paper crane message back to the sect," Jianyu said, looking at a female disciple who wore a worried expression. "Use your technique to ensure the message remains unreadable if intercepted."

Lin Yue quickly retrieved a paper crane from a hidden compartment in her robe, imbued it with a message, and infused it with her Qi.

Jianyu signalled for the rest of the disciples to prepare for departure. As they readied themselves, a sudden oppressive aura descended upon them. From the shadows emerged a cloaked figure, exuding a formidable presence.

"Leaving so soon?" the stranger's voice resonated, dripping with menace.

Elder Jianyu and his disciples braced themselves, realizing that their challenges in the Wilds were far from over.