Chapter 95: Venturing Into the Forgotten Ruins

The sun was barely rising over Silverleaf Forest as Lin Tian, his beasts, and Elara stood at the edge of a dense, ancient woodland. The air was thick with the scent of damp earth and moss, and faint whispers seemed to echo from deep within the trees.

Elara adjusted her cloak and gestured ahead. "The ruins are located within the forest, hidden beneath layers of enchantments. We'll need to stay sharp. It's said that the beasts guarding the area are not ordinary."

Lin Tian nodded, summoning his core team. Yuefeng, Phoenix, and Shadow Serpent appeared, their presence instantly amplifying the group's aura.

"The system mapped the general area," Lin Tian said, a glowing projection appearing before him. "There's a faint energy source deeper inside. It's likely the entrance to the ruins."

[System Notification: Energy Signature Detected. Threat Level: Medium-High. Recommended Team Formation: Defensive-Agile Hybrid.]

"Shadow Serpent," Lin Tian commanded, "you'll scout ahead. Yuefeng, keep an eye on the skies, and Phoenix, be ready for ambushes."

The beasts acknowledged his orders, and the group began their journey.

The Forest's Challenges

The deeper they ventured, the more the forest seemed alive. Trees twisted unnaturally, their roots snaking across the ground like traps. Small, glowing creatures darted between the branches, their eyes tracking the group's every move.

Suddenly, a low growl echoed. From the shadows emerged a pack of Midnight Dire Wolves, their black fur blending seamlessly with the dim light.

[System Alert: Midnight Dire Wolves Detected. Rank: 4. Special Ability: Shadow Blink.]

"Careful," Elara warned. "They're known for coordinated attacks."

Lin Tian smirked. "Let's give them a reason to rethink their ambush."

"Phoenix, light up the area! Yuefeng, contain them with barriers!"

Phoenix unleashed a blazing wave of fire, illuminating the clearing and forcing the wolves to retreat. Yuefeng quickly created shimmering barriers, trapping several wolves within. Shadow Serpent darted between the barriers, striking with precision and taking out the immobilized beasts.

Within moments, the pack was subdued.

[System Notification: Battle Complete. Team Experience Gained. Loot: Midnight Pelt x3, Shadow Essence x2.]

"Impressive," Elara said, genuinely surprised. "You're not like the others."

Lin Tian glanced at her. "I'm not here to impress. Let's keep moving."

The Entrance to the Ruins

After hours of navigating the forest, the group reached a large clearing where a massive stone archway loomed. Runes glowed faintly on its surface, pulsing with ancient energy.

"This is it," Elara said, stepping forward. "The entrance to the Forgotten Ruins. But it's locked. We'll need to solve the seal."

Lin Tian examined the runes, his system providing a detailed analysis.

[System Analysis: Ancient Seal Detected. Requires Elemental Resonance to Unlock. Elements Needed: Fire, Light, Shadow.]

"Perfect," Lin Tian said. "We have all the elements needed."

He directed his beasts:

Phoenix unleashed a controlled burst of flame onto the rune.

Yuefeng focused her light energy, creating a beam that struck the center.

Shadow Serpent wrapped around the archway, channeling shadow energy into the runes.

The runes began to glow brighter, and the archway rumbled as the seal broke. The air shifted, revealing a descending staircase carved into the earth.

The First Trial

The group descended into the ruins, the air growing colder with each step. The walls were covered in murals depicting tamers and beasts working together to overcome impossible odds.

At the base of the staircase was a large chamber with a pedestal at its center. A voice echoed through the room:

"Prove your bond with your beasts. Only those who truly understand their partners may proceed."

Elara frowned. "This must be the first trial. What do we need to do?"

The system responded:

[Trial Objective: Synchronize with your beasts to unlock the path forward. Success Rate Increases with Higher Bond Levels.]

Lin Tian stepped forward, placing his hand on the pedestal. A golden light enveloped him and his beasts, linking their minds. He felt their thoughts, emotions, and unwavering trust in him.

"We're ready," Lin Tian said.

The room filled with projections of various challenges—firestorms, shadow beasts, collapsing terrain. Lin Tian and his team navigated each one flawlessly, their coordination seamless.

When the light faded, the pedestal glowed brighter, and a new path opened.

[Trial Completed. Rewards: Bond Enhancement Crystal, Beast Skill Scroll x1.]

Deeper Secrets

As they ventured further, Lin Tian couldn't shake the feeling that the ruins held more than just ancient knowledge. The system confirmed his suspicions:

[Hidden Energy Signature Detected. Possible Artifact Location Nearby.]

"Elara," Lin Tian said, "there's something more here. Let's stay alert."

She nodded, her expression serious. "Agreed. This place feels… alive."

The group pressed on, unaware that their journey into the Forgotten Ruins was about to uncover secrets that would change the course of Lin Tian's path—and the world's fate.

End of Chapter 95