Chapter 98: The World Beyond

With the trial behind them, Lin Tian and his companions stepped through the shimmering portal. The ancient ruins disappeared in an instant, replaced by the vast and breathtaking expanse of the main world.

The group stood atop a cliff overlooking a sprawling landscape. Forests stretched endlessly to the west, while rivers sparkled like silver veins to the east. Mountains kissed the horizon, and faint hints of distant cities shimmered under the sunlight.

"This is it," Elara whispered, awe-struck. "The world we've been preparing for."

Lin Tian's system chimed.

[System Notification: Entered Main World – Vastoria Continent. Synchronizing Map and Resources.]

A New Goal

The notification brought Lin Tian back to focus. He accessed his system interface, reviewing their current objectives.

**[Active Quests:

Investigate the Relic's Purpose.

Discover the Source of the Corruption.

Strengthen Beast Bonds and Prepare for Future Threats.]**

"Our path begins here," Lin Tian said, determination in his voice. "We'll uncover the secrets of the relic and the corruption. But first, we need information and resources."

Yuefeng, ever the strategist, pointed toward a settlement visible in the distance. "That town is our best bet. We can gather supplies and learn about this region."

Elara nodded. "We should also explore local guilds or sects. They might provide insights or alliances."

First Encounter

The group descended the cliff, entering a dense forest. The atmosphere was alive with activity—birds chirping, beasts rustling in the underbrush, and streams flowing gently. Yet, the tranquility was short-lived.

A sudden roar shattered the peace. From the shadows emerged a pack of Windfang Wolves, their silver fur glinting as they surrounded the group.

Lin Tian's system reacted instantly.

[System Notification: Hostile Beasts Detected – Windfang Wolves (Rank: Mid-Elite). Leader Identified – Alpha Windfang (High Elite). Recommended Strategy: Focus on the Alpha to disrupt the pack.]

"Form up!" Lin Tian commanded. "Phoenix, take to the skies. Shadow Serpent, target the leader!"

Phoenix soared upward, unleashing a wave of fire that forced the wolves to scatter. Shadow Serpent lunged toward the Alpha, its venomous fangs striking with precision.

Elara and Yuefeng worked in harmony, creating barriers and launching water-based projectiles that incapacitated the smaller wolves.

Victory and Warning

After a fierce battle, the Alpha fell, and the remaining wolves retreated into the forest. Lin Tian knelt beside the defeated beast, noting its unnatural markings.

[System Notification: Analyzing Beast… Corruption Traces Detected. Source Unknown.]

"This corruption again," Lin Tian muttered. "It's spreading even here."

Yuefeng frowned. "If it's already affecting beasts in this area, we need to act quickly. The main world might be more dangerous than we anticipated."

Elara placed a hand on his shoulder. "We've faced worse before. Together, we'll figure this out."

Arriving at the Town

By evening, the group reached the town of Verdant Hollow, nestled at the edge of a river. The bustling streets were filled with adventurers, merchants, and beast tamers of varying ranks.

Lin Tian's system activated again.

[System Notification: New Area Discovered – Verdant Hollow. Local Map Updated. Potential Points of Interest: Guild Hall, Beast Emporium, Adventurer's Tavern.]

"Let's split up," Lin Tian suggested. "Elara, gather information at the tavern. Yuefeng, check the guild for missions or news. I'll visit the emporium and see what resources we can acquire."

The group agreed and set off, each determined to uncover clues about the relic, the corruption, and the challenges ahead.

A Glimpse of the Future

As Lin Tian entered the bustling emporium, he couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. A figure cloaked in dark robes lingered in the shadows, their eyes gleaming with curiosity—and something more sinister.

"Let the games begin," the figure whispered before disappearing into the crowd.

Unaware of the looming threat, Lin Tian browsed the shop, his mind focused on preparing for the journey ahead.

End of Chapter 98