16) The Hidden realm!

The Supreme Elder's expression faltered slightly, a flicker of unease passing across his weathered features, his mouth dry, heart trapped in unknown sensation like a bird trapped in cage.

"I... I see a profound darkness, Young Master Gu. A darkness that seems to reach into the very depths of one's soul," The elder's voice wavered, betraying his growing discomfort.

Gu Changge's lips curled into a wry smile, his fingers drumming lightly against the hilt of his jade token at his waist as of he was trying to intimidate the Supreme Elder.

"Ah, so you sense it too - the power that lies dormant within me. A power that has been carefully honed and cultivated over the years, forged in the crucible of my ambition..."