With their preparations complete, the team stood before the boundary of the Six Peaks Forest. Unlike the Dark Forest they once explored, this place radiated a far denser and more chaotic qi. The air itself felt heavy, layered with unseen pressure that pressed against their senses.
"This isn't just a forest," Wang Lei muttered, adjusting his stance. "It feels… alive."
Li Hao nodded. He could sense it too. Every tree, every gust of wind, even the ground beneath their feet carried traces of powerful energy. This was a hunting ground not just for beasts—but for cultivators seeking growth.
"Stay close. Don't underestimate anything," Li Hao said calmly.
Xu Mei adjusted her phoenix cloak, a faint flame aura surrounding her body in perfect control. Su Ling held her cauldron steady, ready to refine any flame essence they obtained. Lin Xue's peacock spirit flickered faintly, already distorting the air around her.
They stepped forward together.
The moment they crossed the boundary, distant roars echoed through the forest.
Danger was everywhere.
But so was opportunity.