In the Southern Region, where the ominous Demonic Forbidden Ground emerged, a formidable force known as the White Tiger Sect stood against the prevailing notion of regional weakness. The Southern Regions, often perceived as the weakest due to thin Spiritual Energy, housed the majority of feeble factions and cultivators. This setting led to a pervasive disdain for those hailing from the Southern Region among cultivators from other areas.
However, amidst this backdrop of disparagement, the White Tiger Sect rose as an enigmatic powerhouse, challenging the stereotypes associated with the Southern Regions. Despite originating from a place with limited Spiritual Energy, all cultivators within the White Tiger Sect exhibited exceptional strength, creating an aura of fear and respect around them.
The revelation of affiliation with the White Tiger Sect turned the tables. Mockery directed at a cultivator from the Southern Region swiftly transformed into uneasy silence and fear upon hearing the name of the White Tiger Sect. The sect's strength, shrouded in mystery, left others speculating about the source of their unparalleled power.
Various theories circulated among cultivators attempting to unveil the secret behind the White Tiger Sect's strength. Some postulated the existence of a heaven-defying treasure within the sect, compensating for the scarcity of Spiritual Energy. Others believed in the presence of top-tier Cultivation Techniques, attributing the sect's strength to their unique training methods. Yet, the truth remained elusive, and the White Tiger Sect retained its enigmatic allure.
The sect's influence extended beyond the Southern Region, challenging even the dominance of esteemed factions such as Sacred Wind Academy and Phoenix Feather City within the powerful Grace Kingdom. The Grace Kingdom, reigning supreme as the strongest power in the entire Grace Continent, held unparalleled sway over the region's affairs. Despite the Union's overarching governance of the world, decisions regarding the Grace Continent necessitated consultation with the Grace Kingdom, underscoring its significance.
Every five years, the Grace Kingdom orchestrated the grand Martial Gathering, a competition drawing cultivators from all five regions. This event served as a platform for participants to showcase their strengths and vie for recognition. The top 100 cultivators received generous gifts from the Grace Kingdom, ranging from rare Weapons to potent Pills, adding an extra layer of motivation to the competition.
For those ranking between 4th and 10th, the prospect of entering Grace Academy awaited. Grace Academy, the most prestigious and formidable institution in the entire Grace Continent, held an almost mythical status among cultivators. Entering its hallowed halls was the dream of every cultivator in the region, a feat that brought unparalleled prestige and recognition.
The top three cultivators, however, attained a status akin to gods within the Grace Kingdom. Their importance transcended the Martial Gathering as they received personal instruction from the Grace Kingdom's National Teacher. This revered figure not only shaped the destinies of the top cultivators but also personally guided the Emperor, adding an extra layer of significance to their teachings.
Attending a lecture by the National Teacher was considered a lifelong goal for many cultivators, symbolizing the pinnacle of spiritual and martial enlightenment. The rarity of this opportunity heightened its value, making it a cherished ambition among cultivators aspiring for greatness.
Securing a spot in the top three during the Martial Gathering was no small feat. The competition was fierce, with top cultivation factions vying to ensure that their most talented disciples would clinch those coveted positions. The importance placed on this endeavour reflected the significance attached to the teachings of the National Teacher.
In a poignant incident from a past Martial Gathering, a cultivator from the White Tiger Sect faced public humiliation at the hands of a contemptuous counterpart from Phoenix Feather City. The Phoenix Feather City Lord, however, took matters into his own hands, executing the offender and, surprisingly, kneeling before the elder of the White Tiger Sect. This public act of contrition was unprecedented and left the onlookers perplexed. It, however, emphasized the formidable reputation of the White Tiger Sect, revealing a terror that surpassed expectations.
Within the serene confines of the White Tiger Sect, a figure cloaked in Grey Robes traversed the grounds with deliberate steps. Coming to a halt before a colossal door, the figure knelt with utmost reverence and respect, delivering a grave message, "Master, the Demonic Forbidden Grounds have manifested near the Sacred Wind Academy."
The response from within the room, occupied by a person draped in silver robes with a hood obscuring their visage, remained shrouded in silence. The anticipation hung in the air as the Grey Robed messenger awaited a response, unable to discern the thoughts concealed beneath the hooded countenance.
After a while, an aged voice came from within the room, "Take all the Elementary Stage disciples to the Demonic Forbidden Grounds."
When he heard that, the man in Grey Robes was confused. He asked, "Master, may I know why all the Elementary Stage youngsters need to enter Demonic Forbidden Grounds? Isn't it better to send only the disciples with better aptitude?"
The aged voice's reply came very soon this time, "There are twelve Forbidden Grounds. Among them, the Six Forbidden Grounds which only the Elementary Stage experts could enter are very special. It lays a solid foundation for these youngsters."
"The people who came out alive from any of these Forbidden Grounds have made a name for themselves. Of course, there are dangers in the Forbidden Grounds. So, whether they make fortune for themselves, or they meet their demise, it will all depend on their own fate."
"But this is not the reason why I asked you to lead all the Elementary Stage disciples to Demonic Forbidden Grounds. There is another reason." ,The aged voice said after taking a deep breath.
The man in Silver Robes asked, "Master, may I know what that reason is?"
The man in Silver Robes paid full attention to whatever the man behind the doors was about to say. Others might not know. But he knew just how terrifying the man behind the door was.
Because if anyone from the White Tiger Sect sees this will be terrified. Because the Man in the Grey Robes was none other than the current Sect Leader of the White Tiger Sect!
And the person with the highest authority in their sect is bowing his head in front of someone else.
Their Sect Leader is showing sincerity and reverence towards whoever is behind the door.
So, how could they not be shocked?
But the Sect Master of the White Tiger Sect didn't mind his actions. He knew just how terrifying the Man behind the door was. So, he found no shame in his actions.
The aged voice came from behind the doors, "This is something related to His Majesty."
His Majesty!
In the Entire Grace Continent, there exists only one person who is addressed with the title "His Majesty".
The Emperor of the Grace Kingdom!