Lucian Lochlan, disrespected and expelled by cultivation prodigy Jasper Rourke, forms a team to compete in the Martial Assessment Exam. Jasper conspires with the Shadow Cult, gaining unorthodox power, and sets traps for Lucian. Lucian investigates his mother's disappearance, ventures into Northern Realm Ruins, confronts Apostle Rank Shadow Cult members, and vows to eliminate dark forces and find his mother.