The sky darkened—not with storm clouds, but with the sudden appearance of a massive flying vessel, unlike anything anyone in the Stone Mountain Sect had ever seen.
Towering, metallic, and shaped like a ghostly warship from an ancient myth, it hovered silently above the clouds, casting a vast shadow over the sect grounds.
Its origin was unknown, its intentions unclear. For several long breaths, it simply floated there—ominous and still.
The silence was deafening.
Though the vessel made no move, the Stone Mountain Sect was already in chaos.
Alarm spread like wildfire through the peaks and valleys of their mountainous territory.
Bells rang out from the watchtowers, sharp and frantic.
From the highest halls where the elders meditated, to the training grounds where disciples sparred, all activity ceased.
"We're under attack!" someone shouted.
"Summon the elders—immediately!"
"Who are these people?!"
