Chapter 6: Into the Whispering Woods

The sun dipped low on the horizon, casting long shadows that danced along the Whispering Woods' edge. Feng Lin stood at the entrance, feeling a mix of anticipation and trepidation. The woods were notorious among the disciples—rumored to be a place of secrets, danger, and hidden opportunities. For Feng Lin, it was a testing ground for his newly awakened powers.

He clenched his fist, feeling the familiar pulse of chaos energy beneath his skin. The Primordia System, now active, hummed quietly in the back of his mind, displaying a series of new quests and objectives. But today, he was focused on one thing: growth. He stepped into the dense forest, each footfall muffled by the thick carpet of leaves.

As he moved deeper, the ambient sounds of the sect faded away, replaced by the eerie whisper of the trees. It wasn't just a name—the woods truly whispered, carrying faint echoes of the past. Creatures rustled in the underbrush, their eyes glowing faintly in the dim light. Feng Lin activated his Chaos Sense, a new skill granted by the system, allowing him to perceive the hidden energies around him. The woods were alive, pulsing with mana and chaos in equal measure.

He encountered his first challenge swiftly: a pack of Shadow Hounds, creatures with dark fur and sharp fangs, known for their stealth and viciousness. Feng Lin tightened his grip on his spear, feeling the flow of chaos energy guiding his movements. The battle was swift but fierce. With each thrust of his spear, Feng Lin could feel his connection to the Primordia System deepening, his strikes fueled by the chaotic power coursing through him. The last hound fell, disintegrating into wisps of shadow that dissipated into the forest floor.

As he caught his breath, a notification blinked in his mind:

[Quest Complete: Eliminate Shadow Hounds – Experience Gained: 300]

Feng Lin's energy surged, and he felt a slight but undeniable improvement in his strength. But there was no time to rest; the woods were vast, and he had only scratched the surface of their secrets.

Hours passed as Feng Lin continued his exploration, battling beasts and discovering hidden areas that tested his resolve. Each victory brought new insights and rewards from the system. Yet, amid the combat and chaos, he sensed something strange—like he was being watched.

Near dusk, Feng Lin stumbled upon a hidden glade, untouched and silent. In the center stood a massive tree, its bark scarred with ancient runes glowing faintly. Before he could investigate further, a figure stepped out from behind the tree—a disciple from his sect, shrouded in a dark cloak.

"Feng Lin," the figure spoke, voice low and mocking, "I've been watching you. It seems the rumors were true—you're not as useless as everyone thought."

Feng Lin narrowed his eyes, recognizing the disciple: Jiang Yue, a senior disciple known for his cunning and ruthless ambition. There was always something unsettling about him, and his presence here was no coincidence.

"What do you want, Jiang Yue?" Feng Lin asked, keeping his guard up. The air between them crackled with tension.

Jiang Yue smiled, a dangerous glint in his eyes. "Oh, I just came to see the sect's latest disappointment in action. But now... I'm curious. You're hiding something, aren't you? Something powerful."

Feng Lin tightened his grip on his spear. This encounter was not just a coincidence; Jiang Yue's intent was clear. But before Feng Lin could respond, Jiang Yue's eyes gleamed with a knowing look.

"Tell me, Feng Lin," Jiang Yue said, stepping closer. "What would happen if the sect discovered your little secret? I wonder how long you'd last then."