Chapter 81: The Road to the Beast-Taming Tournament

Morning arrived with the first rays of sunlight filtering through the town's bustling streets. The Golden Hearth Inn buzzed with activity as travelers and tamers prepared for the journey northward to the beast-taming tournament.

Lin Tian and his companions, refreshed and prepared, stepped out into the lively streets. Xiuying, now in her elegant human form, adjusted her cloak to blend in, while Yuefeng trailed behind silently, her predatory gaze scanning their surroundings. Ling'er, in her usual playful demeanor, skipped ahead, her boundless energy drawing smiles from passersby.

"The tournament's not far," Lin Tian said, consulting the map feature of his orb. "We'll need to cross the Verdant Hills and the Silverwood Forest before reaching the city of Glorious Dawn."

Mei Ling, the mysterious woman who had joined their group the night before, fell into step beside him. "The Verdant Hills are a known hotspot for rogue tamers and wild beasts. You'll need to be cautious."

Lin Tian smirked. "Caution is my companion. Let's move."

Ambush in the Verdant Hills

The journey through the Verdant Hills proved to be as perilous as Mei Ling had warned. Rolling green landscapes gave way to steep inclines, rocky paths, and dense patches of tall grass that could easily conceal danger.

Hours into their trek, the group came across an abandoned campsite. Ashes from a recent fire still smoldered, and scattered belongings lay strewn about.

"Something's not right," Lin Tian said, his eyes narrowing as he scanned the area.

A sudden rustling in the bushes confirmed his suspicion. Without warning, a group of rogue tamers burst forth, their beasts at the ready. Leading them was a man with cold, calculating eyes and a scar running across his jaw.

"Well, what do we have here?" the man sneered. "Travelers heading to the tournament? Hand over your beasts and valuables, and we might let you live."

Lin Tian stepped forward, his expression calm but laced with authority. "I don't take kindly to threats. Leave now, and you might walk away unharmed."

The rogue leader laughed mockingly. "Brave words, but you're outnumbered. Let's see how long that confidence lasts."

The rogues unleashed their beasts—a mix of snarling wolves, venomous serpents, and hulking boars. Lin Tian's companions moved to his side, their auras flaring with power.

Xiuying soared into the air, transforming mid-flight and unleashing a wave of scorching flames that forced the attackers' beasts into retreat.

Yuefeng darted through the shadows, striking with precision and taking down the wolves with swift, silent attacks.

Ling'er summoned a wall of vines, entangling the serpents and neutralizing their venomous strikes.

The battle was over in moments, the rogues left cowering as Lin Tian stepped toward their leader.

"Remember this: not all prey is defenseless," Lin Tian said coldly. "If I see you again, I won't be so lenient."

The rogues fled, leaving behind their supplies, which Lin Tian's group used to replenish their own.

The Enigma of Silverwood Forest

By the time they reached the edge of Silverwood Forest, the sun was dipping low on the horizon. The forest was a place of beauty and mystery, with silver-leafed trees that shimmered under the moonlight and an otherworldly stillness that sent chills down the spine.

Mei Ling paused at the entrance, her expression wary. "This forest is known for its illusions. It's said to be home to a spirit beast that tests the hearts of those who pass through."

Lin Tian nodded. "We'll face whatever comes our way. Stay close and remain focused."

As they delved deeper, the air grew thick with energy. The shimmering trees seemed to twist and shift, creating paths that looped back on themselves. Ling'er clung to Lin Tian's arm, her usual cheer replaced with unease.

"Master, something's watching us," she whispered.

Suddenly, a melodic voice echoed through the forest. "Who dares trespass in my domain?"

From the shadows emerged a magnificent creature—a Silverwood Spirit Fox, its fur glimmering like starlight and its eyes piercingly intelligent.

"I am the guardian of this forest," the fox said, its voice resonating with power. "If you wish to pass, you must prove your worth."

Lin Tian stepped forward. "And how do we do that?"

The fox smirked. "By showing your bond with your companions. Face me, and let your strength and unity speak for themselves."

The battle that followed was unlike any Lin Tian had faced before. The fox was a master of illusions, creating clones of itself and bending the forest to its will. But Lin Tian's team fought with unmatched coordination:

Xiuying used her flames to dispel the illusions.

Yuefeng anticipated the fox's movements, striking at the real target.

Ling'er provided support, using her vines to protect her allies from sudden attacks.

In the end, the fox yielded, impressed by their bond.

"You are indeed worthy," the fox said, bowing its head. "I grant you safe passage—and a gift."

The fox vanished, leaving behind a shimmering silver gem.

Arrival at Glorious Dawn

By the time they reached the city of Glorious Dawn, the group was weary but triumphant. The city was a marvel of architecture, with towering spires, bustling streets, and a colossal coliseum at its center—the venue for the tournament.

As Lin Tian gazed upon the city, a sense of excitement filled him. This was just the beginning of his journey, and the main world was already proving to be a place of endless challenges and opportunities.

"We've arrived," he said, a smile playing on his lips. "Let's show them what we're made of."

End of Chapter 81