The three of them moved forward together. They passed through the opening in the barrier, and Xian Tiandi felt a strange sensation wash over him. Like stepping through a curtain of water.
The world shifted.
Colors became more vivid. The air felt different, denser somehow. The spiritual energy concentration inside the barrier was significantly higher than outside.
And then Xian Tiandi understood.
"This isn't just a barrier," he said quietly. "This is..."
"A secret realm," Elder Feng finished, his voice filled with shock. "A pocket dimension. The ruins were built on top of an entrance."
Secret realms were rare treasures in the cultivation world. Pocket dimensions created by ancient experts, filled with opportunities and dangers in equal measure.
They'd just stepped into one.
The doorway behind them sealed shut with a soft sound. The barrier reformed, trapping them inside with whatever waited ahead.
Elder Qiu's expression was grim. "We're committed now. No turning back."
