The heavy iron hinges of the Dragon Gate shrieked as they sealed shut behind Ye Chen. The metallic boom severed the outer market from his senses, locking him inside the sovereign domain of the Inner Sect. He took his first step onto the polished jade paving stones of the central promenade and stumbled forward. A crushing pressure settled over his collarbones, forcing him to plant his heavy leather boots wide to maintain his balance. The spiritual energy in this place did not drift like morning mist. It pressed down upon the mountain with the physical density of deep ocean water.
Ye Chen drew a slow breath through his nose, feeling a sharp burn in his lungs. He tasted cold mountain springs, ancient pine resin, and raw ozone in the air. The liquid core in his dantian spun with sudden, viole
