The Azure Dragon Sect headquarters had not known true panic for centuries.
Built upon a floating mountain range wrapped in jade-green clouds, the sect's core territory radiated authority and ancient prestige. Massive palaces carved from spirit jade stood in layered terraces, protected by countless formations. Dragons of condensed qi coiled around pillars and gates, roaring silently as symbols of power.
Yet on this day, unease crept into every hall.
An emergency bell rang once.
Then twice.
Then three times.
Elders abandoned secluded cultivation chambers. Inner disciples halted their training. Servants froze mid-step as spiritual messages spread like wildfire through the sect's internal arrays.
A Spirit Stone Mine had vanished.
Not raided.
Not damaged.
Gone.
Entirely devoured.
Within the Grand Azure Hall, the upper echelon of the sect gathered in grim silence. The air itself felt heavy, suppressed by the fury barely contained within the elders present.
