Several days had passed since Jean, the princess of the Sixth Realm Wizard Association, entered the Spirit World. She had already faced ferocious beasts, gathered rare herbs, and braved storms that could shatter mortal minds. Her journey brought her to the Realm of the God of Music, a place that seemed to hum with divine energy.Jean’s goal was not just to gather treasures but to test her limits.
Few days back she heard news about adventure to the internal music hall in desolate desert.
She sought to join the rich family heir’s expedition to the Desolate Desert, rumored to lead to the fabled Hall of Eternal Music, where countless legends whispered of eternal spells and priceless artifacts.
As she approached the towering gates of the rich family’s estate, a line of hopeful cultivators, mercenaries, and adventurers stood waiting to gain entry. Some whispered about the rare Supreme Rank Spirit Weapon that would be granted to those who survived the perilous journey. Jean, with her composed demeanor, strode confidently past the murmuring crowd.
Inside, the estate buzzed with activity. Servants hurried about carrying crates of supplies, while would-be adventurers tried to impress the Estate Manager, a burly man with a sharp tongue and an intimidating presence.
Jean walked straight up to him with a serious expression. “I’ve come to join the expedition to the Desolate Desert.”
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The Estate Manager looked her over, his brows furrowing. “A woman?” he scoffed. “I don’t have time for people who’ll slow us down. Go back to whatever safe city you came from.”
Jean’s eyes narrowed and spoke in a firm manner. “I didn’t come this far to be dismissed by someone who doesn’t even know my capabilities. Do not mistake me for someone fragile.”
The other applicants murmured among themselves. Some sneered, others admired her boldness.
The Estate Manager crossed his arms. “This isn’t a game, lady. The Desolate Desert is no place for someone like you. The beasts alone would rip you apart before you made it halfway.”
Jean stepped closer, her piercing emerald eyes locking onto his. “Is this how you judge people? Based on appearances? I’ve fought my way through the Spirit World to get here. I’ve faced beasts, gathered treasures and survived storms before reaching here. And yet, here you are, dismissing me without even testing my skills.”
The Manager snorted, though her words had clearly rattled him. “Even if you’re as skilled as you claim, the heir doesn’t want dead weight. And believe me, you’d be just that.”
Jean raised an eyebrow. “Then let him tell me that himself.”
The crowd grew silent, tension thick in the air.
“Enough!” the Manager barked. “I decide who gets in, and I’m saying no. Now leave before you embarrass yourself further.”
Jean didn’t move. Her voice grew colder, more commanding. “You’ll regret underestimating me.”
Before the argument could escalate further, a smooth, confident voice interrupted. “What’s going on here?”
The crowd parted as a young man walked forward. His aura was unmistakably noble—his sharp features, jet-black hair, and golden robes shimmering with faint runes. This was Aran Lam, the heir of the rich Lam family. He had been observing the exchange from a distance, his eyes lingering on Jean with intrigue.
The Manager quickly turned to him, bowing deeply. “Young Master, this lady—”
“I heard everything,” Aran said, cutting him off. His gaze never left Jean. “What’s your name?”
“Jean,” she replied, her voice steady.
Aran’s lips curved into a slight smile. “Jean… You’re not from the Spirit World, are you?”
“No,” she admitted. “I come from the below 9 Realms.”
Aran nodded, his interest piqued further. “And you want to join the expedition?”
“Yes,” she said simply.
The Manager opened his mouth to protest, but Aran raised a hand to silence him. “Why should I let you join?”
Jean met his gaze, unflinching. “Because I’m capable And if you doubt me, put me to the test.”
The crowd erupted in murmurs, impressed by her confidence.
Aran studied her for a moment, then chuckled softly. “I like your spirit. Very well, you may join. But,” he added, his tone serious, “you’ll have to abide by the same rules as everyone else. No special treatment.”
Jean nodded. “I wouldn’t expect any.”
The Manager looked flustered but didn’t dare argue further. “Fine,” he grumbled. “Report back here in three days. The group will assemble then.”
Jean turned to leave, but Aran called out to her. “Jean.”
She paused, glancing over her shoulder.
“I hope you won’t disappoint me. Manager, arrange a separate room for her in our estate for the next three days.” he said, a faint smile playing on his lips.
Jean’s expression remained serious. “Thank you for your hospitality.” Jean replied directly. She already spent lot of wealth to reach this realm and don’t want leave a chance of free stay.
As she walked away estate servant, Aran watched her, captivated. “She’s… different,” he muttered to himself.
While Jean prepared for the expedition, the remaining ten surviving adventurers from the lower nine realms were carving out their own survival stories in the Spirit World.
Unlike Jean, they moved as a group, prioritizing safety over ambition. Their focus was on gathering herbs and treasures to trade in the Spirit Cities before their three-month limit expired.
The group stumbled upon a grove filled with glowing crystals, their soft light illuminating the forest. “These will fetch a high price,” one of them said, eagerly collecting the crystals.
“Careful,” another warned. “Places like this always attract beasts.”
No sooner had he spoken than a low growl echoed through the grove. A massive, shadowy creature emerged, its eyes glowing red.
“Formation!” the leader shouted. The group quickly surrounded the beast, launching coordinated spell attacks.
Though they managed to fend it off, the encounter left them shaken. “This world doesn’t get easier. We already lost several members. Don’t we can reach home safe.” one muttered, wiping sweat from his brow.
Back at the EstateJean sat in at centre of the estate garden. Her thoughts slowly moved towards the masked young man who stole her heart, but she soon shook her head. “Focus, Jean, He is not here.” she muttered to herself.
Far away, Aran stood on a balcony, gazing at the moonlit landscape. “Three days,” he murmured, his mind filled with thoughts of the silver-haired woman who had boldly faced his Manager.
Little did they know, the journey to the Desolate Desert would test them in ways they couldn’t imagine.