Floating Island - Triple S Talent

Multi-Space Portal - Guandu Realm

The multi-space portal area, usually bustling with activity, now felt different. Its typical hustle and bustle had disappeared, replaced by a solemn atmosphere that enveloped every corner, stretching even tens of kilometers away.

A group of people stood in orderly lines, forming organized rows as if waiting for a command that would determine their next steps. Surrounding them, flying boats hovered gracefully in neat rows, seemingly awaiting their turn to be used. These vehicles appeared to be the mode of transport for those heading to the multi-space portal, adding a futuristic yet traditional impression.

Among the crowd, two large groups stood out. The first group consisted of individuals in uniforms representing the top sects of the Guandu Realm.

Their uniforms varied, but the aura of power radiating from them felt similar—indicating experience and high hierarchy. The second group was vastly different. They were elves, beings with captivating appearances. Their attire glowed as if merging with nature, exuding an elegance unique to the Silent Forest race.

Apart from these two prominent groups, there were also others. Nobles from various clans, honored guests of the Guandu Realm, and even a few common folk who seemed to have been granted a rare opportunity to participate. Though they lacked the allure of the two major groups, their presence still completed the mosaic of diversity in this event.

On the teleportation portal platform, two figures stood calmly. An elderly man in formal robes stood beside a woman whose appearance was striking. Her fresh green robes resembled living leaves, radiating a strong natural aura. They appeared relaxed, but their eyes showed they were waiting for something important.

"Has Lord Aleron given the signal?" asked the woman in green leaf-like robes, her voice soft yet commanding. She glanced briefly at the elderly man beside her.

"Your Grace Tauriel, Lord Aleron has not yet sent word," replied the elderly man politely, accompanied by a slight respectful nod. He was Meng Hao, leader of the Eternal Swan Sect, the strongest sect in the Guandu Realm.

Tauriel let out a small sigh, her expression reflecting impatience she tried to hide. "I'm afraid he's deliberately stalling to prevent me from joining," muttered Tauriel in a voice almost whispered, yet sharp enough for Meng Hao to hear.

A flicker of concern crossed Meng Hao's mind. Dealing with Tauriel was always a challenge for him. This woman was not just a Guardian of the Silent Forest but also an individual with a reputation for dominating every negotiation. Meng Hao chose to remain silent, aware that a single wrong word could trigger far greater issues.

Moments later, the silence was broken by a voice echoing in Meng Hao's ears.

"Proceed to the Divine Sky Realm immediately."

Relief instantly washed over his face. As if a savior had arrived amidst the storm, he quickly turned to Tauriel with a friendly smile, though his heart held a deep sense of relief. "We may depart, Your Grace Tauriel," said Meng Hao warmly, masking the irritation that had just gripped him.

Tauriel responded with a faint smile, her expression showing no malice, but there was a sharp glint in her eyes. "At last… I wonder how he plans to refuse my offer this time," muttered Tauriel softly but meaningfully. Her gaze shifted to the elves from her race, her eyes gleaming with ambition that was hard to conceal.

Using telepathy, Tauriel gave instructions to a male elf who seemed busy organizing the Silent Forest race's ranks.

"Lord Lorin, prepare everyone. We are leaving," she commanded firmly, her voice resonating in Lorin's mind with elegance and undeniable authority.

The male elf turned, his body straightening like a soldier receiving a direct command from his leader. Without saying a word, he bowed deeply, a gesture of respect that was simple yet meaningful.

Meng Hao, on the other hand, had already taken his place near the multi-space portal. He carefully inspected the portal mechanism, ensuring everything was running smoothly. Occasionally, he raised his hand, channeling energy to maintain the portal's stability. His movements reflected his long experience and the immense responsibility he carried.

"Everyone... mortals will depart first!" he shouted loudly. His voice echoed, creating an immediate silence among the gathered crowd.

All eyes turned to him. The mortals, comprising various layers of society, began moving forward in an orderly manner. They understood that a single small mistake could make them the target of Meng Hao's wrath.

The first group was filled with wealthy nobles. Their luxurious robes sparkled under the sunlight, adorned with gems that reflected a soft light. Their aura radiated pride and arrogance, as if the world existed to serve them.

Each step they took echoed with confidence, accompanied by the scent of expensive perfume that lingered in the air. These nobles represented royal families who sent them to seek opportunities in the new realm, where strategic collaborations were being planned.

Behind them, the common folk began to move. They came from all corners of the Guandu Realm, invited by Aleron to showcase diversity and solidarity. Among this crowd, a pair of poor siblings walked slowly, their steps hesitant.

The younger sibling, a small boy with a worried face, tugged at his sister's sleeve. "Sister, will we be okay?" he asked softly, his voice almost drowned in the commotion.

The sister, a teenage girl with loose hair, smiled gently, though her eyes betrayed doubt.

"Don't worry," she replied, trying to reassure her brother. "There, we'll eat good food. This is a new beginning." Her tone was full of affection, though beneath it lay a hidden fear of the uncertain future.

Bitter memories of their past briefly surfaced in her mind. They had once been harshly punished simply for taking leftovers from a restaurant. That trauma was still evident in her brother's hesitant eyes. Yet, her encouragement gave him a glimmer of courage, enough to step forward.

The siblings were part of a group randomly selected by the Eternal Swan Sect to represent ordinary people at the event. Initially, they had declined the offer, fearing to leave their family behind.

But when the sect gave each of them a gold coin, their hearts softened. That coin, which they gave to their parents before departing, was a guarantee that their family would be okay. Stay connected through empire

Slowly but surely, the mortals entered the multi-space portal. Wave after wave, they vanished in a dazzling flash of light. Their numbers, reaching three thousand, quickly dwindled as the teleportation process continued.