Chapter 13: Chapter 13: The First Challenge Beyond the Realm
Chapter 13: The First Challenge Beyond the Realm
The sun had begun to set, casting an orange glow across the vast plains outside the Forbidden Sanctum. Lin Tian stood at the edge of the hidden realm, looking out into the unknown world beyond. He could feel the pull of the outside world—the looming dangers, the untapped opportunities, and the destiny that awaited him.
His family was ready. After weeks of training and rebuilding within the sanctuary of the hidden realm, they were stronger, more united, and prepared for what lay ahead. But Lin Tian knew that the moment they stepped outside, they would be facing new challenges—ones that would test their resolve, their bonds, and their power.
"Are we ready, Tian'er?" Lin Meiyu asked, her voice full of both concern and pride. She stood beside him, her hand resting gently on his shoulder. "The world outside has changed since you died. Many powerful forces will see us as a threat."
"I know," Lin Tian replied, his gaze focused on the horizon. "But we're stronger now. The Sacred Beasts have awakened, the hidden realm is thriving, and we have each other. We're ready to face whatever comes our way."
Behind him, his family stood in silence, their eyes full of determination. His five elder sisters, his two twin cousins, his four aunts—each of them had trained in the hidden realm, refining their skills, unlocking new abilities. They had become more than just family; they were a force to be reckoned with.
But Lin Tian knew that the world outside was not kind. There would be those who sought to control them, to challenge their power, and perhaps even those who would want to take his Sacred Beasts from him. The bond he shared with them was something no one could truly understand, but others would still try.
Entering the Mortal World
As Lin Tian and his family made their way out of the hidden realm and into the mortal world, the familiar sights of the ruined sect came into view. The land around them was barren and scarred by time, but the air was filled with promise. The hidden realm had been a sanctuary, but now they needed to venture into the outside world to rebuild what had been lost.
They were not just starting from scratch—they were starting with power. Lin Tian's eyes gleamed with determination as he looked toward the distant mountains that marked the edge of the empire. There were rumors of powerful factions operating within the kingdom, factions that sought to control magical beasts, powerful warriors, and those with hidden talents like his own.
They would be a target. Lin Tian was certain of it. But he was also ready to take on whatever forces dared to challenge them.
The First Encounter
As Lin Tian led his family toward a nearby town, a small but prosperous village nestled in the valley, he sensed something unusual. His senses, sharpened by the power of the Sacred Beasts and his newly honed abilities, detected a disturbance in the air—an unnatural stillness that warned of danger.
"Stay close," Lin Tian murmured to his family. "I sense something... We may not be alone."
His Sacred Beasts—now standing at his side in their human forms—nodded in unison. The fire-dragon, whose human form was that of a tall, imposing figure with fiery golden hair, looked ahead, his eyes narrowing. "Something doesn't feel right," he said, his voice deep and resonant.
The winged lion, her golden wings folded behind her, was more cautious. "It's a presence... I feel it too. It's not a normal aura. Whoever they are, they're powerful."
Lin Tian's expression hardened. His instincts told him they were being watched—tracked, even. He motioned for his family to fall into formation. The time for stealth had passed. Now, it was time to face whatever threat was waiting for them.
The Ambush
As they approached the village, the tension in the air became palpable. It wasn't long before they saw them—the attackers. A group of men, cloaked in dark robes, emerged from the shadows of the forest. Their presence was ominous, and Lin Tian could feel their hostile intent from a distance. They were no ordinary bandits. These were individuals with purpose, with power. They weren't here for simple theft.
One of the men stepped forward, his eyes gleaming with malicious intent. "So, you're the one they've been talking about," he sneered, his voice laced with disdain. "The reincarnated beast tamer. We've been waiting for you."
Lin Tian's eyes flicked to his family. He could see the confusion and concern on their faces, but they trusted him. They would follow his lead.
"You're mistaken," Lin Tian said coolly, his voice filled with authority. "If you think we're just some easy target, you've made a grave mistake."
The man chuckled darkly, raising his hand. "It's not about making a mistake. It's about taking what's ours. The beasts you control... they belong to us now."
Lin Tian's fists clenched, and his heart burned with fury. He knew immediately who they were. These men were part of a faction that sought to control magical beasts—beasts like his Sacred Beasts—and force them into servitude. But Lin Tian would not let that happen.
Without another word, he stepped forward, his body radiating power. "You're going to regret this."
The Battle Begins
The first man lunged at Lin Tian with a speed that belied his appearance, but Lin Tian was faster. He sidestepped effortlessly, his eyes burning with the intensity of his newfound strength. As the man stumbled past him, Lin Tian summoned the fire-dragon with a simple thought.
The fire-dragon, his human form transforming back into that of a beast, roared in fury and leapt toward the attackers. His flames scorched the air, forcing the men back.
At the same time, the winged lion unfurled her golden wings and soared into the sky, her power filling the air as she prepared to strike. The men scattered, but they quickly regrouped, their own abilities revealing themselves.
The battle was fierce, but Lin Tian and his family fought with precision and unity. The bond between them, strengthened by the Ritual of Binding, allowed them to move as one, anticipating each other's moves. Lin Tian's Sacred Beasts fought by his side, their powers complementing his own, each strike a testament to the strength of their bond.
The attackers were formidable, but they were no match for Lin Tian's newly awakened power.
The Aftermath
By the time the battle ended, the attackers lay defeated at their feet. Lin Tian stood victorious, but his expression was one of resolve, not satisfaction. He turned to his family, his voice steady. "This is just the beginning. There will be more who come after us. But we will face them together."
His family nodded, understanding the weight of his words. The world outside was vast, and many would seek to challenge them, but Lin Tian was certain of one thing: as long as they stood together, nothing could break their bond.
As they turned to leave, the fire-dragon and winged lion returned to their human forms, standing by Lin Tian's side as they ventured deeper into the village. This was only the first test, and many more awaited them. But Lin Tian knew that with the power of the Sacred Beasts, his hidden realm, and the unwavering support of his family, they could overcome anything.