The night was deep and heavy, with dark clouds gathering in the sky, and the rumble of distant thunder echoed through the air.

In one corner of the camp, Chen Feng set up a simple tent and was eating some fruit after his meal.

It was the tenth day since he arrived in the Wanmu Forest.

Aside from the significant gains on the first day, the next nine days had yielded only a little over a hundred taels of silver. He also bought a Yuan Cultivating Pill to refine and improve his cultivation, but he was still at the seventh level of Body Tempering.

It felt as though the breakthrough to the eighth level of Body Tempering was still a distant goal.

"Tomorrow, I’ll try to go deeper into the Wanmu Forest," Chen Feng muttered, finishing the fruit. His gaze grew deep as he looked toward the direction of the Wanmu Forest.

For the past ten days, he had mostly been working the outer and middle areas of the forest, with minimal rewards.

Chen Feng was now considering venturing into the inner area of the Wanmu Forest.

The inner area of the Wanmu Forest was undoubtedly more dangerous, and it was possible that second-tier monster beasts resided there. Initially, he hadn’t planned to enter, but a few days ago, his Nine Shadow Phantom Body technique had broken through its limits, and his ability to protect himself had significantly improved.

A figure wandered nearby, circling a few times before stepping forward.

"Lord Chen Feng," the figure called out, stopping a few meters away from the tent. His voice was low and deep.

"Is there something?" Chen Feng glanced over, his sharp eyes quickly recognizing the man as a middle-aged man with a large beard.

"My name is Wang Qi, and I am at the Ninth Level of Body Tempering. I’ve come to invite you to join our team," the bearded man said in a hushed tone. "Please don't refuse just yet. We’ve discovered a treasure tree in the inner area of the Wanmu Forest. It bears many precious fruits, one of the main ingredients for making the Opening Meridian Pills. It’s preliminarily valued at three thousand taels."

At these words, Chen Feng's eyes immediately sharpened.

Three thousand taels!

That was an enormous sum, enough to buy thirty Yuan Cultivating Pills. Not to mention the eighth level of Body Tempering; even the ninth level could be within reach.

"Lord Chen Feng, there are four of us in total, all at the Ninth Level of Body Tempering. With you, it will make five. If you're willing to join, we’ll meet at the seventh entrance of the Wanmu Forest tomorrow at dawn," Wang Qi continued, giving a slight bow before turning to leave.

Chen Feng watched him walk away, his mind racing.

Valued at three thousand taels, this meant that if he joined, he might receive as much as six hundred taels—more than enough for him to break through to the eighth level of Body Tempering.

"This is an opportunity that can’t be missed. It’s worth a try. Seize the moment," Chen Feng thought, making up his mind. He then turned his focus back to studying the Wind Shadow Sword Technique.

Every time he meditated on it, he felt he gained a new, deeper understanding of the technique.

Chen Feng felt certain that the ultimate move of the Wind Shadow Sword Technique, the Wind Shadow Kill, was far from its limit.

As the night passed, Chen Feng woke up feeling refreshed. After rinsing his mouth, washing his face, and eating some dry rations, he set off toward the seventh entrance of the Wanmu Forest.

The Wanmu Forest stretched for hundreds of miles, with countless entry and exit points. However, for convenience, ten main entrances had been established, each with clear signs and routes, making it easier for travelers to navigate the forest.

At the seventh entrance, four figures were gathered.

"Lord Chen Feng, it seems you’ve made your decision," the bearded Wang Qi said with a smile as he saw Chen Feng’s tall figure approaching.

"Everyone, this is Lord Chen Feng, the young genius of the Hongtian Dao Academy," Wang Qi introduced him to the others. He then turned to Chen Feng. "Lord Chen Feng, these three are my friends…"

A short, stocky man with a bronze shield on his back was called Han Hui, a middle-aged man with a burly frame who carried a battle axe was Han Jie, his brother, and the last man, slender and lean, was named Yan Bin, who wielded a pair of short spears.

Wang Qi’s weapon was a long sword.

It was typical for wandering martial artists to specialize in one weapon, as hand-to-hand combat was too dangerous and less effective against monster beasts.

Han Hui nodded at Chen Feng, while Yan Bin smiled faintly.

"Wang Qi, are you sure he’s at the Ninth Level of Body Tempering?" Han Jie, however, gave Chen Feng a cold look and asked in an interrogative tone.

"Han Jie, Lord Chen Feng is a genius disciple of the Hongtian Dao Academy. Not long ago, he single-handedly defeated the Anming team with a sword in the camp," Wang Qi quickly responded. Han Jie’s expression froze, and both Han Hui and Yan Bin showed surprise.

"Lord Chen Feng, now that you’ve joined our team, we should head out. I’ll explain more details on the way," Wang Qi said.

"The fruits from that treasure tree are known as Red-Fire Fruits. Each one is worth at least two hundred taels," he continued.

"But, there’s a huge Strength Beast Bear guarding the tree. To pick the fruits, we’ll have to deal with it first."

The massive bear’s paw smashed towards Chen Feng with terrifying force, causing the air to ripple and crackle with the pressure. The overwhelming force made Chen Feng’s chest tighten as if a mountain was pressing down on him. His body was sent flying back, and he could barely hold onto his sword.

“Not good!” Chen Feng’s eyes widened, and he quickly activated his Nine Shadow Steps, using the movement technique to dodge to the side just in time, narrowly avoiding the bear's deadly swipe. However, the sheer force of the attack caused the ground to shake violently, and Chen Feng stumbled, barely managing to stay upright.

The rest of the group wasn’t faring much better. Despite their combined efforts, the giant bear was proving to be far stronger than they had anticipated. The bear’s fur was tough as armor, and their weapons couldn’t penetrate deeply enough to cause any significant harm.

“Everyone, focus on its legs!” King Qi shouted, his voice filled with urgency. “We need to disable it before it can fully unleash its power!”

The group quickly adjusted their tactics. Han Jie swung his battle axe towards the bear’s hind legs with a powerful, cleaving strike. Han Hui raised his shield and charged at the bear’s front legs, aiming to trip it up. Yan Bin moved with agility, attempting to find weak points in the bear’s thick hide with his short spears.

Chen Feng, using the opening created by the others, dashed forward again. His blade flickered like a gust of wind as he struck at the bear’s eyes, using his wind-shadow sword technique to its fullest potential. This time, his strike was faster and more precise, aiming for the same spot where he had hit earlier.

The bear roared in pain, its enormous body thrashing violently. It turned its attention toward Chen Feng, clearly enraged, and its massive paws swiped through the air with terrifying speed. The air seemed to bend under the force of its claws.

But before the bear could reach Chen Feng, a loud crack rang out as Han Hui's shield collided with the bear’s front legs, causing the beast to lose its footing momentarily. The bear faltered, its movements becoming less coordinated.

“Now!” Wang Qi yelled, his long knife flashing through the air as he charged forward.

The group, sensing their opportunity, launched a coordinated assault. Han Jie leaped high into the air, bringing his battle axe down with all his might onto the bear’s exposed back. Yan Bin darted in, his spears flashing like lightning, piercing the bear’s underbelly.

Chen Feng took a deep breath and readied his sword again. With a single motion, he summoned all his strength and launched another series of swift, precise strikes aimed directly at the giant bear’s eyes.

The giant bear howled one last time, thrashing in a desperate attempt to shake off its attackers. But with one final thrust from Chen Feng’s sword, he pierced the bear's eye, driving the blade deep into its skull.

The massive creature staggered, its body trembling violently before it collapsed to the ground with a deafening thud.

The group stood still, panting from exhaustion, as they surveyed the fallen beast. It was clear that it had taken everything they had to defeat it, but they had finally managed to bring down the monstrous creature.

“Good work, everyone,” Wang Qi said, breathing heavily. “We did it. We’ll collect the red fruit and head back soon. This will make us rich.”

The excitement in his voice was palpable, but Chen Feng couldn’t shake off the feeling that this was just the beginning of the dangers they would face deeper in the woods. The inner part of the forest was far more perilous, and there were many more challenges ahead.

As they began to gather the red fruits from the tree, Chen Feng’s thoughts drifted to what lay ahead. The price of success was steep, and the deeper they ventured, the greater the risk. But with the prospect of gaining enough wealth to break through to the next level, it seemed like a risk worth taking.

As the group finished collecting the red fruits, they started making their way back, their bodies exhausted but spirits high, ready for whatever dangers the next part of the journey would bring.

The group moved cautiously back towards the entrance of the forest, the weight of their spoils adding an extra layer of tension to the air. The red fruits, though a great prize, were not the only thing they had to worry about. The deeper they ventured into the forest, the more dangerous the environment became. Chen Feng could feel the shift in the atmosphere, the oppressive weight of the forest pressing down on them as they walked.

"Stay alert," Wang Qi muttered, his eyes scanning the surroundings. "The real dangers begin now. We’ve made it this far, but that doesn't mean we’re out of the woods yet."

Han Hui, still carrying his shield, kept his eyes sharp, his posture ready for any sudden movement. Yan Bin, who had been quiet for most of the journey, spoke up, his voice tinged with unease.

"These woods... they feel different now. Like something's watching us."

Chen Feng couldn’t help but agree. The wind had picked up, howling through the trees, and the distant sounds of strange creatures echoed around them. Despite the thrill of their recent victory, a sense of foreboding lingered.

"I feel it too," Chen Feng replied quietly, his hand never far from the hilt of his sword. "We should move quickly. The longer we stay, the more likely we are to attract unwanted attention."

The group quickened their pace, each of them constantly looking over their shoulders, knowing that danger could strike at any moment.

As they neared the edge of the forest, the ground beneath them suddenly trembled. A low, guttural growl vibrated through the trees, sending a chill down their spines.

"Get ready," Wang Qi ordered, his voice steady despite the tension in the air. "Everyone, stay close and be ready for anything."

Before anyone could respond, a massive shadow moved through the trees ahead of them, crashing through the foliage with terrifying force. The ground shook as a new threat appeared—an enormous creature, its eyes glowing with a fierce, predatory light.

It was another beast, larger and more menacing than the giant bear they had just slain.

"An Abyssal Tiger!" Han Jie hissed, recognizing the creature at once. "We’re in for a tough fight."

The Abyssal Tiger was known for its incredible speed and strength, its fur as dark as night, and its claws capable of slicing through even the toughest armor. It moved with terrifying precision, its eyes locked onto the group with a hunger that sent a shiver through their bones.

Wang Qi immediately shouted, "Form up! Protect the rear!"

The group quickly spread out, trying to surround the creature. Han Hui moved to the front, his shield raised, while Yan Bin prepared his short spears, his body coiled with anticipation. Han Jie gripped his battle axe tightly, ready for the strike.

Chen Feng’s eyes narrowed. The Abyssal Tiger was dangerous, but it wasn’t invincible. He needed to find an opening, just as he had with the giant bear. The key was in its speed—if they could slow it down, they might have a chance.

Without warning, the tiger lunged forward, its claws slashing through the air with deadly accuracy. Han Hui’s shield absorbed the first blow, but the force sent him sliding backward, his feet digging into the ground for purchase.

"Hold firm!" Wang Qi shouted, his voice full of authority. "Don’t let it break through!"

The Abyssal Tiger circled them, its body low to the ground, eyes gleaming with malice. It was waiting for an opening, watching them like a predator hunting its prey.

Chen Feng’s hand tightened around his sword. He knew that they needed to act fast, or the tiger would pick them off one by one.

"Move in!" Wang Qi barked, signaling for the group to attack.

Han Jie swung his battle axe in a wide arc, aiming for the tiger’s flank. Yan Bin darted forward, his spears flashing as he tried to find a weak spot. The Abyssal Tiger reacted with lightning speed, dodging and counterattacking with ferocity.

Chen Feng saw his chance. The tiger was momentarily distracted by Han Jie’s attack, its side exposed. Without hesitation, he dashed forward, using his wind-shadow sword technique to enhance his speed. His sword flashed, aimed directly at the tiger’s throat.

But before his blade could land, the tiger’s massive paw swung around in a blur, slamming into Chen Feng’s side with incredible force. The impact sent him crashing into a nearby tree, the air knocked out of him.

"Chen Feng!" Wang Qi yelled, turning to help.

The others were still engaged in battle with the Abyssal Tiger, but it was clear that the creature’s strength and speed were overwhelming them. The group was being pushed to the brink, and Chen Feng knew they needed to finish this fight—fast.

Summoning every ounce of strength, Chen Feng forced himself to his feet. His body ached, but he couldn’t afford to fall now. He could feel the familiar warmth of his inner energy beginning to rise, his determination fueling him.

The battle raged on, and Chen Feng knew that only one of them would walk away from this fight. It would either be them—or the Abyssal Tiger.

And he was determined that it would be them.

The terrifying force of the giant paw of the Giant Power Bear crashed down, overwhelming Chen Feng with a pressure that made it difficult for him to open his eyes. The crushing force was so intense it felt like he was being suffocated.

With a roar, the bear's enormous paw was aimed directly at Chen Feng, and the air seemed to tremble under the impact of its strength. His body was sent flying, crashing hard into the ground a few meters away. The earth shook beneath him as he struggled to push himself up.

"He's... he's injured!" Chen Feng thought as he tasted blood in his mouth. Despite the pain, he managed to stay focused. He couldn't afford to lose his nerve now. He had to be decisive.

"Everyone, hold it off! I'll get another chance!" Chen Feng gritted his teeth and, using his agile footwork, quickly repositioned himself, his sword raised high once more.

The others were already engaged in fierce combat, with Han Jie and Han Hui focusing on the Giant Power Bear's massive form, trying to keep it off balance. Yet, despite their combined strength, the beast's defense was formidable.

"Chen Feng, now!" Han Hui shouted as he charged forward, the giant bronze shield held high. He managed to divert the bear's attention for a brief moment.

Seizing the opening, Chen Feng dashed forward, his sword held in the air, the wind swirling around him. His movements were swift, his eyes locked onto the bear's unguarded side. With a powerful lunge, he thrust his blade deep into the beast's flank.

The Giant Power Bear howled in pain as the sword pierced through its thick skin. However, it retaliated instantly, swinging its other massive paw toward Chen Feng. The impact sent him tumbling across the ground, his vision blurred, but he remained conscious.

"Dammit!" Chen Feng muttered to himself. He could feel the bone-crushing force of the beast's attack, but he couldn't stop now. His allies were depending on him.

"One more strike," Chen Feng thought, pushing through the pain. He had to finish it before the bear could retaliate.

Chen Feng's body flew back, tumbling over the ground, his vision blurred, but he quickly gathered himself. The impact of the bear's strike was overwhelming, but he couldn't afford to be distracted.

"Dammit!" Chen Feng muttered through clenched teeth, tasting the blood in his mouth. He could feel the immense power of the beast's strike in every fiber of his body, but he pushed through the pain, focusing on the fight. His allies needed him.

The others were still fighting with all their might. Han Hui's sturdy shield was holding the bear's charge at bay, but it was clear that their efforts alone wouldn't be enough to take the bear down.

"One more strike," Chen Feng thought, taking a deep breath. His body was battered, but his will remained strong. He couldn't let this opportunity slip away.

As the Giant Power Bear roared again, enraged by the injuries Chen Feng had inflicted, its massive form shifted, swinging its paw with terrifying force.

Han Hui and Han Jie attempted to block and divert the bear's attention again, but it was clear the bear was determined to finish the fight.

Chen Feng's sword gleamed under the dim light of the forest. With a final push, he dashed forward, aiming to strike the beast's vital points. His sword sliced through the air, landing with a powerful thrust.

The bear howled in pain, its massive body staggered for a moment as blood poured from its wound. It was not enough to finish it off, but the beast's strength seemed to be waning.

"Get back! It's going for another attack!" Han Jie shouted, sensing the bear's next move.

The five of them quickly regrouped, preparing for the final strike. The Giant Power Bear was injured but still a dangerous opponent. They had to end this soon.

The air was thick with tension as the battle reached its climax. The combined strength of the group had managed to wear down the bear, but the real challenge was about to come: they needed to finish it before the bear could retaliate.

[--------------------------------------------]

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