Battle Through the Heavens: Obtaining the Extraction System at the Start

The heavy, oppressive aura emanating from the stone tablet washed over her like a tide, seeming to freeze even the air. Xun'er's pale fingers curled unconsciously, and even her breathing grew lighter. The gleam of anticipation that had lit her eyes earlier was now quietly veiled by nervousness.

This was the instinctive reverence that arose from the depths of one's soul when facing the aura of a true supreme being who had looked down upon the ages. Even as a Half-Saint, she could not entirely resist it.

Xiao Ling took in her subtle reaction. His palm tightened gently, clasping Xun'er's slightly cool hand more firmly. His fingertips deliberately brushed over the delicate skin on the back of her hand, as though silently passing warmth to her.

He turned his head, his azure eyes filled with unyielding gentleness and a reassuring smile. Even his voice was lowered. "Don't be afraid. I'm here. After all, I'm one of the few Xiao Clan descendants still wandering the Dou Qi Continent. I imagine our ancestor won't make things difficult for us."

As he spoke, he deliberately raised their clasped hands and lightly squeezed her knuckles, the smile in his eyes deepening.

Feeling the strength and warmth flowing from his palm, then meeting Xiao Ling's open and gentle gaze, the unease stirred by the pressure in Xun'er's heart gradually faded.

She nodded softly. Her shoulders, which had been somewhat tense, slowly relaxed, and her gaze toward the stone tablet regained some of its composure.

Without stopping, the two walked side by side toward the stone tablet.

The dark brown tablet grew clearer amid the void. Dim light seemed to flow through its weathered patterns, as if silently recounting the years buried within it.

But when they were less than ten steps from the tablet, a