Lin Tian stood within the emporium, the scent of herbs, rare beast materials, and metallic tools filling the air. The establishment was vast, with shelves stacked high with items that sparkled with latent energy. His system chimed softly as he analyzed the wares.
[System Notification: Local Resources Detected. Key Items Recommended for Purchase Based on Current Objectives.]
Corruption Neutralizer (Basic): Temporarily suppresses corruption effects.
Beast Bond Catalyst: Enhances synchronization between tamer and beast.
Advanced Beast Treats: Boosts growth and morale of beasts in combat.
"Perfect," Lin Tian murmured, selecting a few vials and catalysts. As he completed his transaction, the shopkeeper, an older man with sharp eyes and a weathered demeanor, leaned closer.
"You're not from around here, are you?" the man asked.
Lin Tian smirked. "What gave it away?"
The shopkeeper gestured toward Lin Tian's beasts. "Your companions—rare breeds not native to these parts. Be careful. Verdant Hollow has its fair share of watchers."
The words lingered ominously as Lin Tian exited the shop.
Gathering Information
Meanwhile, Elara sat in the Adventurer's Tavern, her sharp ears picking up fragments of conversation.
"The corruption's spreading faster than before…"
"I heard a sect elder vanished near the Crystal Caverns."
"Verdant Hollow might not hold much longer if the beasts keep mutating…"
Elara's system chimed, summarizing the gathered data:
[System Notification: Relevant Information Compiled.]
Crystal Caverns: Possible origin of corruption.
Missing Elder: Key figure linked to recent disturbances.
Mutating Beasts: Increased aggression and erratic behavior reported.
Elara stood, determined to share her findings.
A Unified Goal
The group reconvened at the edge of the town. Yuefeng carried a list of available guild quests, including a high-priority mission to investigate the Crystal Caverns.
"The corruption traces match," Yuefeng said. "It's our best lead."
Elara nodded. "I overheard locals mentioning mutated beasts. The caverns might hold the answers."
Lin Tian's system activated, confirming the alignment of their next steps.
[Quest Updated: Investigate the Source of Corruption – Crystal Caverns Identified as Key Location.]
"Then it's settled," Lin Tian said. "We'll head for the caverns at first light."
A Shadow in the Night
As the group rested in a secluded inn, a chill swept through Lin Tian's room. His instincts flared as a cloaked figure materialized from the shadows.
"You're meddling in forces beyond your understanding," the figure said, their voice a low growl. "Turn back now, or face the consequences."
Lin Tian's eyes narrowed. "Who are you?"
The figure didn't answer, but their aura flared—a dark energy laced with corruption. Before Lin Tian could react, the figure vanished, leaving behind only a faint residue of their presence.
[System Notification: Unknown Threat Detected. Residual Corruption Energy Collected for Analysis.]
Lin Tian clenched his fists. "They know we're here."
The Journey Begins
At dawn, the group departed Verdant Hollow, their resolve unshaken despite the night's events. The path to the Crystal Caverns was fraught with dangers, but Lin Tian and his companions were ready.
As they traversed the wilderness, the landscape grew darker, the air heavier with an unearthly energy. Beasts once docile turned hostile, their eyes glowing with an unnatural red hue.
"Stay sharp," Lin Tian warned.
His system buzzed.
[System Notification: Entering High-Corruption Zone. All Beasts in the Area Are Enhanced.]
The trials ahead would test their strength, but the group pressed on, united in their mission to unravel the mysteries of the corruption—and the forces that sought to stop them.
End of Chapter 99