By the time the Azure Heaven Ship descended, the sun was already leaning westward, bathing the sprawling city below in warm gold. Towers of lacquered wood and jade rose from the streets like guardians of an ancient age, their curved roofs crowned with wind-bells that sang softly in the breeze. The vessel glided toward a vast landing platform at the city's heart, where an honor guard awaited.
"This is Yunshan City," Grand Elder Haiyun announced as they disembarked, his voice carrying that faint timbre of nostalgia. "Every ten years, the Immortal Secret Realm opens… and for generations, this city has been its gatekeeper. Even after the realm closes, they prepare for the next opening as though it were a royal festival."
