Chapter 80: Into the Vast World

As Lin Tian stepped out of the trial grounds, the scenery before him changed dramatically. He now stood on a towering cliff overlooking an expansive valley filled with lush forests, sparkling rivers, and distant mountains that seemed to touch the heavens. The main world was alive with the hum of energy, and Lin Tian could feel its vastness calling to him.

His beasts stood beside him, their expressions reflecting the same awe and anticipation.

"This is it," Lin Tian said, his voice filled with determination. "Our real journey begins now."

A World of Opportunity

The valley below was teeming with activity. Far off, Lin Tian could spot small settlements, caravans moving through well-trodden roads, and even what seemed to be a distant city with towering spires that glimmered under the sunlight.

Xiuying, his phoenix companion, flared her fiery wings, circling above to survey their surroundings. She descended gracefully moments later.

"There's a bustling town to the east," she said in a melodic voice, her human form shimmering with fiery energy. "It looks like a good place to gather information."

Lin Tian nodded. "Then that's where we'll go."

Encounter on the Road

The journey down the cliffside path was uneventful at first, but as they entered the forest below, the atmosphere grew tense. The trees were ancient, their gnarled roots stretching across the path like sleeping serpents. The air was heavy with the scent of moss and wildflowers, but Lin Tian could sense something more—a faint killing intent.

"Stay alert," he warned, his hand instinctively brushing against the orb embedded in his palm.

Moments later, the underbrush rustled, and a group of bandits emerged from the shadows. Their leader, a burly man with a jagged scar running across his face, smirked as he brandished a massive axe.

"Well, well, what do we have here?" the man sneered. "A lone traveler and his…pets? Hand over your valuables, and we might let you walk away alive."

Lin Tian's lips curved into a faint smile. "You should rethink your choices."

The bandits laughed, but their amusement quickly turned to panic as Lin Tian's beasts stepped forward, their auras flaring with power.

Xiuying unleashed a burst of flames, creating a barrier that trapped the bandits.

Yuefeng melted into the shadows, her golden eyes gleaming as she took down their rear guard in a flash.

Ling'er summoned vines that ensnared the remaining bandits, immobilizing them with ease.

The leader trembled, his confidence shattered. "W-wait! We didn't mean any harm! Please, spare us!"

Lin Tian approached him calmly. "You've chosen the wrong target. Leave now, and spread the word: this path belongs to me."

The bandits fled, stumbling over themselves in their haste to escape.

Arrival at the Town

By dusk, Lin Tian and his companions reached the eastern town. It was a bustling settlement with cobbled streets, lively marketplaces, and an array of travelers and merchants. The air buzzed with chatter, the scent of roasted meats and fresh bread wafting through the air.

"Let's find an inn first," Lin Tian suggested.

They soon found a cozy establishment called the Golden Hearth Inn. The innkeeper, a plump woman with a warm smile, greeted them warmly.

"Travelers, eh? You've come at a good time. The annual beast-taming tournament is starting soon!" she exclaimed.

Lin Tian's interest piqued. "A tournament? Tell me more."

The innkeeper leaned in conspiratorially. "It's held in the city to the north. Tamers from all over come to test their strength and skill. There's even a rare beast egg as the grand prize!"

Lin Tian exchanged a glance with Xiuying, who smirked. "Sounds like an opportunity we can't pass up."

A Mysterious Stranger

As they settled into the inn, Lin Tian couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. His instincts proved correct when, later that night, a hooded figure approached him in the common room.

"You're not an ordinary tamer, are you?" the stranger said, their voice low and laced with curiosity.

Lin Tian met their gaze calmly. "And you're not an ordinary traveler. Who are you?"

The stranger pulled back their hood, revealing a woman with sharp features and piercing green eyes. "My name is Mei Ling. I've been following the trials for years, and I sensed the energy you unleashed when you passed through them. I believe you've awakened something far greater than you realize."

Lin Tian's eyes narrowed. "What do you know about the trials?"

"Enough to know that they're just the beginning," Mei Ling replied. "If you truly wish to uncover their secrets, you'll need allies—and I can be one of them."

The Adventure Awaits

Lin Tian studied Mei Ling for a moment before nodding. "We'll see if you're as valuable as you claim. For now, you can join us."

As the night deepened, Lin Tian couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The trials were over, but the true adventure had just begun. With new allies, challenges, and mysteries ahead, the world of beast taming promised to be more thrilling than ever.

End of Chapter 80