Just as everyone began clearing away the Flower Demon's remains, the lake's mirror-still surface suddenly rippled violently, as though something had disturbed it. The ripples grew larger and larger, as if some enormous creature beneath the lake was awakening.
Amid everyone's astonishment, a loud splash rang out as a massive Water Monster covered in azure scales burst from the water. Its body was as huge as a small mountain, sharp horns protruded from its head, and icy jets of water periodically sprayed from its mouth.
The moment the Water Monster appeared, the lake seemed to fall under its control, throwing up towering waves. Like savage beasts, the waves roared as they swept toward everyone. Caught off guard, they were knocked unsteady by the sudden surge and staggered backward.
Amid the chaos, the little disciple kept his eyes fixed on the Water Monster without wavering. He stared wide-eyed, carefully observing its every move and missing no detail.
Suddenly, surprise welled up inside the little disciple. He discovered that the Water Monster could control the surrounding waters at will, as though the lake were part of its own body. Drawing upon the lake's power, it continuously strengthened itself and grew ever more formidable.
Seeing this, the little disciple made a swift decision. He quickly directed everyone away from the lake and had them form a formation in a relatively safe spot. He knew that if they remained near the water, the Water Monster could easily use the terrain to attack them, and the consequences would be unthinkable.
Upon hearing the little disciple's command, everyone sprang into action. They cast earth-element spells, and Earth Walls rose from the ground one after another like bamboo shoots after rain, forming a sturdy defensive line against the Water Monster's attacks.
However, the Water Monster was clearly