Morning mist still hung low in the sky of Tianyin, enveloping the highest pavilion of the city like a cloak of mystery. Amidst the quiet corridors adorned with pale yellow lanterns, the sound of Mo Tian's footsteps echoed sharply, merging with the gentle tapping of rain from the previous night that hadn't yet dried on the black stone.
The pavilion was called Second Heaven, a meeting place not marked on any official map. Only a handful of people in the Murim world knew of its existence. There were no guards at the door, no soldiers standing watch—just a silence that seemed to observe every breath of its visitors.
Mo Tian slowly opened the intricately carved wooden door, shaped like a foggy dragon. Its creak was faint, as though even the room itself was reluctant to welcome a guest.
Inside, the atmosphere felt like a meditation hall: tranquil, but heavy with pressure. The only light came from a large lantern hanging from the ceiling, casting shadows on the stone walls. In the center of the room sat the Alliance Leader—alone.
He wore a plain dark robe, without any symbols or insignia. His head was slightly bowed, but his eyes were sharp, piercing like a spiritual sword. In front of him was a low wooden table with a steaming pot of tea.
"Sit," he said briefly, his voice deep yet soft.
Mo Tian bowed his head and sat cross-legged opposite him. Silence stretched on for a few moments, broken only by the sound of water droplets falling from the roof.
"My report was delayed," Mo Tian finally spoke, breaking the stillness. "But I bring important news about Dark Blood."
The Alliance Leader's eyes focused on him. "I know. That's why I summoned you personally. Speak."
Mo Tian opened a leather pouch and pulled out three old pieces of parchment. Red ink markings on the papers formed maps, names, and strange symbols. He placed them carefully on the table.
"This is the latest infiltration network of Dark Blood. They've infiltrated three sects, two of which are in the northern region. But the most concerning... they have planted someone inside Tianyin Academy."
The Alliance Leader narrowed his eyes.
"Not just a spy. They're testing new techniques. Blood techniques. Not the usual ones, but a version combined with the influence of dark spirits."
The Alliance Leader said nothing. He picked up one of the papers and studied the symbol of an eye surrounded by five black lines.
"Are you sure this is accurate?" he asked quietly.
"Yes. I lost two informants to gather this."
The Alliance Leader placed the paper back down. He silently poured tea into two cups.
"Dark Blood... they've been lurking, waiting. And now, they've started moving. That means— they've found something. Or... someone."
Mo Tian nodded. "I suspect their target is not just power domination. They're looking for an heir to a certain technique. Perhaps... the heir of Mist Moon."
The teacup in the Leader's hand froze in mid-air, though his expression remained calm.
"Ryo Ardenant is dead."
"Yes," Mo Tian replied flatly. "But not his legacy."
Silence hung once more. This time, it was heavier than before.
The Alliance Leader took a slow sip of his tea.
"So, what's your plan?"
Mo Tian leaned forward. "Allow me to form a shadow team. A small group. I'll lead. Not bound by the main rules of the alliance. We'll investigate, intervene, and if necessary... kill in silence."
The Leader's gaze never wavered. "That's dangerous. You'll be a traitor if you're caught."
"I'm ready," Mo Tian replied briefly.
The Alliance Leader closed his eyes for a moment, then opened them again, speaking softly, almost like a murmur:
"In the shadows, truth is sometimes hidden. But also in the shadows... betrayal can grow."
He stood slowly and walked over to an old rack in the corner of the room. From it, he took a small metal badge shaped like a crescent moon. He tossed it toward Mo Tian.
Mo Tian caught it with one hand.
"Start. But don't return... until you bring light out of the fog."
Mo Tian stood and bowed deeply.
Without another word, he left the quiet room—leaving behind the scent of tea, dark plans, and a decision that could shake the Murim world.