Then a barrier was placed at the entrance to isolate the murderous tide.

But not everyone's barrier could truly block killing intent.

A barrier was only one part of a formation. Without the correct methods, techniques, and understanding of the Training Trial Secret Realm, such a barrier would be nothing more than a fragile shell.

If the barrier was not setup properly, then the murderous aura would seep through like poison, eroding the body and soul without mercy.

"Risa, I know what you're thinking."

Elara spoke softly, her gaze still fixed on the forest ahead.

"But I won't stop you. I can only remind you—Ethan is far stronger than you imagine."

"Stronger even than what people have said."

Risa stiffened slightly.

She turned her head and looked at Elara, her expression complicated.

As the third young lady of the Sky family, and the future heir to the position of family head, Elara had long since mastered the art of observing people. Subtle changes in breath, posture, and gaze never escaped her notice.

She knew exactly what Risa was thinking.

Risa had always been the most outstanding cultivator of the Sky family's younger generation. She was proud, competitive, and naturally warlike. Such a person would inevitably feel dissatisfaction—perhaps even resentment—toward Ethan, who had suddenly appeared and become the young lady's fiancé.

Elara would not stop her.

Sometimes, allowing someone to personally experience the gap was more effective than a thousand words of persuasion.

If Ethan could temper Risa's pride, it might not be a bad thing.

"Don't worry, Miss," Risa said after a moment, cupping her hands. "I know my limits."

"After I came out of seclusion, I heard many rumors about Ethan—about his extraordinary talent and unparalleled combat power."

"Today, I only wish to test him under the rules of the Training Trial Secret Realm. I want to see whether he is truly qualified to protect you."

Elara nodded calmly.

"You may test him. I can only guarantee that Ethan won't take your life."

"As for the rest… you'll have to bear the consequences yourself."

Risa's eyes flickered.

The more Elara spoke like this, the more curious—and unsettled—she became.

Under the suppression of the secret realm's laws, how strong could Ethan truly be?

While the two were waiting, three streams of light suddenly flew across the sky in the distance.

Their speed was swift and aggressive, carrying a sharp, oppressive aura.

Elara and Risa both looked up.

Three figures hovered above the forest canopy.

Judging by their attire and insignia, they were unmistakably from the Palace of the Four Cycles.

Elara silently took a breath.

Members of the Palace of the Four Cycles usually would not act rashly against the Sky family.

Usually.

But this was the Training Trial Secret Realm.

Here, death carried no witnesses, and grudges could be settled without consequence.

"Miss," Risa said in a low voice, her expression tense. "They're from Heavenly Palace."

The leading young man descended slowly, a relaxed smile on his face.

"Miss Elara," he said lazily, "you've given us quite a surprise."

Elara recognized him instantly.

Heavenly Palace belonged to the Tengu Clan.

And this man was none other than the young patriarch of the Tengu Clan—Zeph.

His talent was exceptional, his combat power outstanding. Though he could not compare to absolute monsters like Ember or Lunara, he was undoubtedly among the top-tier geniuses of Blue-Wave City.

"It's Zeph…" Risa muttered, her jaw tightening.

She had once fought him.

At that time, Zeph had just entered the Upper Demon Lord realm, while she was already in the mid-stage Upper Supreme realm.

Yet she had lost.

A crushing defeat.

That battle became an indelible stain in her heart, a humiliation she could never forget.

Now, she was in the late stage of Upper Supreme.

But Zeph was already on the verge of stepping into the late stage of Upper Demon Lord.

As the young patriarch of the Tengu Clan, Zeph possessed terrifying bloodline inheritance, vast clan resources, and the full support of the Palace of the Four Cycles.

His cultivation speed far exceeded hers.

Moreover, demons possessed innate advantages—stronger physiques, sharper instincts, and terrifying explosive power.

In the same realm, demons often crushed humans.

"Heh," Zeph glanced at Risa and chuckled. "So it's you."

"The subordinate who lost back then."

Risa's expression hardened.

"Young Master Zeph," she replied coldly, "victory and defeat depend on circumstance. The past proves nothing."

"Hahaha!"

Zeph laughed loudly, as if he had just heard a great joke.

"You amuse me."

"Ten moves. That's all I'd need now."

"If we were outside this secret realm, three moves would be enough."

His tone was casual, dismissive, filled with absolute confidence.

Then he waved his hand slightly.

"But you're no longer worth my time."

"I'm not here for you."

Without sparing Risa another glance, Zeph passed by her and walked straight toward Elara.

"The Training Trial Secret Realm doesn't last long," Zeph said.

"Why would Miss Elara linger here instead of hunting treasures?"

Elara maintained her composure and smiled faintly.

"Why would Young Master Zeph seek me out instead?"

Zeph raised an eyebrow.

"What, Miss Elara doesn't welcome me?"

"I'm merely surprised," Elara replied gently.

"Hahaha," Zeph laughed again. "Relax. I'm not here for you."

"You're not worthy of my attention either."

Risa clenched her fists.

"But," Zeph continued, his gaze slowly sweeping over Elara, "if Miss Elara wishes to accompany me for a night…"

"I could consider it."

His eyes were filled with blatant appraisal.

Risa's anger exploded.

"You've gone too far!"

"Presumptuous!"

A middle-aged man beside Zeph shouted.

A terrifying wave of pressure erupted, blasting Risa backward dozens of meters.

"Do you think you're qualified to interrupt my young patriarch?" the man said coldly.

His aura was deep and oppressive.

An Upper Supreme at the peak—clearly someone suppressing his realm to protect Zeph.

Elara's eyes darkened, but she forced herself to remain calm.

"Young Master Zeph," she said, her voice steady, "if you have something to say, please say it directly."

"The daytime in the Training Trial Secret Realm is precious. I doubt Young Master Zeph wishes to waste it on empty words."

Zeph smiled.

"It's a small matter."

Then his expression slowly turned indifferent.

"Tell me where Ethan is."

"And everything you know about him."

Zeph stood with his hands behind his back and asked in a calm voice.

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