In No Heaven, above a vast Cloud Sea.
Minor Metal stood amidst the clouds, somewhat surprised. This time, he hadn't taken on the identity of the Primal Daoist; instead, he had appeared here in his original form.
"Greetings, Daoist."
He looked up at the voice and saw the clouds part to reveal a white-haired, wizened old man smiling at him. "You are the first Daoist to make it this far."
Minor Metal didn't answer. He continued to survey his surroundings before saying in a low voice, "I had assumed this final tribulation would be the scene of your past quest for Gold... Was I wrong, or do you, like before, wish to have a long chat with me before I officially begin?"
"A bit of both, I suppose."
The Primal Daoist smiled faintly. With a wave of his sleeve, the clouds transformed into a tea pavilion. He sat down first, and Minor Metal followed suit, taking the seat opposite him.
"Daoist, you have already passed through four tribulations. Can you tell me how you feel?"
