Time passed. Then, one day...
A blinding light burst across the sky above the Demon Dragon Realm, and the glow of cross-realm teleportation spread outward in ripples.
When the light faded, the elders of Starfall Academy, led by the Great Elder, landed steadily on the Demon Dragon Realm's black rock surface with dozens of pale-faced New Students in their midst.
"Finally... we're back!"
A New Student gazed at the familiar red mountains in the distance, his voice trembling uncontrollably.
Ever since the Dragon Realm Secret Realm collapsed and they fell into the Dark Mist Realm, this group of New Students had lost all contact with the Academy. They had struggled to survive in that perilous realm, fending off bloodthirsty Evil Creatures day and night. Every step had brought them to the brink of death.
Had the Academy elders not led Emperor Realm experts to their rescue in time, the New Students would likely have become food for the Evil Creatures. Fewer than one in ten would have survived.
Ling Yunxiao and Gu Chengan were among them. The two supported each other as they stumbled along, both seemingly injured.
The elders looked grim as well. The rotten stench of the Dark Mist Realm still clung to many of their robes. Their rescue mission had plainly been a fierce battle.
"Starfall Academy's third round of testing is officially over."
The Great Elder swept his gaze across the crowd. His aged voice held a trace of weariness but had lost none of its authority. "The New Students will remain in the Demon Dragon Realm for now. Tend to your injuries and await further instructions."
At his words, cheers finally rose from the New Students, who had endured round after round of trials.
Ling Yunxiao, Gu Chengan, and the others finally reunited with the