Chapter 85: The Tournament’s Hidden Secrets

As the final rounds of the tournament loomed, the atmosphere grew increasingly intense. Whispers of conspiracy swirled among the competitors, and Lin Tian knew they were inching closer to uncovering the secrets behind the dark faction's involvement.

The next day, the coliseum buzzed with energy as the tournament resumed. The semi-finals promised battles between the most formidable tamers, and the tension was palpable. Lin Tian's resolve was steadfast—each battle brought him closer to the Heavenly Beast Core and the truth behind the faction's plans.

The Semi-Finals Begin

Lin Tian's semi-final opponent was a woman named Mu Qing, a celebrated tamer known for her mastery over illusion beasts. Her partner, a Phantom Mirage Panther, was infamous for confounding opponents with its deceptive attacks.

As the battle began, the arena shifted into a dark, misty forest, a perfect setting for Mu Qing's beast. The audience gasped as shadows flitted through the trees, illusions blurring the line between reality and trickery.

Mu Qing smirked. "You're strong, Lin Tian, but strength won't help you if you can't see the truth."

Lin Tian remained calm. "Illusions may fool the eye, but they can't deceive the bond between a tamer and their beast."

He summoned Yuefeng, whose dark fur shimmered with a faint glow. Lin Tian closed his eyes, relying on their connection. Yuefeng moved with precision, evading the Panther's feints and striking true when it revealed itself.

With a decisive blow, Yuefeng pinned the Panther, forcing it to yield. The crowd erupted in cheers as Lin Tian advanced to the finals.

A Warning from the Shadows

After the battle, Lin Tian was approached by Chen Rui again, his expression grave.

"They're growing desperate," Chen Rui warned. "The dark faction isn't going to let you win without a fight. They might not even wait for the finals."

Lin Tian's gaze hardened. "Let them come. I've dealt with their ambushes before."

Chen Rui shook his head. "This isn't just about you anymore. The Heavenly Beast Core is more than a prize—it's the key to awakening an ancient force. If they get their hands on it, they'll plunge the entire continent into chaos."

Lin Tian clenched his fists. "Then we'll stop them. No matter what it takes."

A New Ally

That evening, a mysterious figure arrived at Lin Tian's inn. She introduced herself as Elder Feng, a former member of the now-cursed Divine Phoenix Sect, a legendary women-only sect hidden deep within the continent.

Elder Feng's presence exuded a powerful aura, and her knowledge of the Heavenly Beast Core was unmatched.

"The core is no ordinary treasure," Elder Feng explained. "It contains the essence of an ancient Heavenly Beast, capable of reshaping the laws of the world. Long ago, it was sealed away to prevent its misuse, but it seems the seal has weakened."

Mei Ling frowned. "Why would the tournament organizers use it as a prize?"

Elder Feng's expression darkened. "Because they're pawns of the faction. They want the strongest tamers gathered here, distracted by competition, while they work in the shadows to claim the core."

Lin Tian's mind raced. The tournament wasn't just about strength—it was a stage for a grander scheme.

The Divine Phoenix Sect's Legacy

As Elder Feng spoke, Lin Tian's orb began to glow faintly. The others watched in awe as a projection appeared, revealing a map leading to the Divine Phoenix Sect's hidden location.

"The orb recognizes you as its master," Elder Feng said. "That map shows the path to the sect's ruins. There, you'll find the knowledge and power needed to protect the core."

Ling'er grinned. "Looks like we're going on another adventure."

Xiuying nodded. "But first, we finish the tournament. If they want to use this stage for their plans, we'll make sure they regret it."

Preparing for the Final Battle

The night before the finals, Lin Tian meditated in the Pocket World. His beasts gathered around him, their auras blending in harmony. Yuefeng, Ling'er, and his other partners had grown stronger through their bond, and their determination mirrored his own.

The ancient tree in the center of the Pocket World hummed with energy, its branches glowing faintly. Lin Tian felt a surge of power, as if the Pocket World itself was preparing him for what lay ahead.

The Stage Is Set

As dawn broke, the coliseum was packed to the brim. The final match was between Lin Tian and Zhao Wei, a ruthless tamer known for his dragon-type beasts.

The arena shifted into a volcanic landscape, with rivers of molten lava and jagged cliffs. Zhao Wei's Crimson Flame Drake roared, its fiery breath heating the air.

Lin Tian stepped forward, Yuefeng by his side. His resolve was unshakable. This wasn't just a battle for victory—it was a fight for the future.

As the match began, the crowd held its breath. The clash of titanic beasts and unyielding wills would decide not only the tournament but the fate of the Heavenly Beast Core.

End of Chapter 85