The core of the Star Dou Great Forest was far deeper and more secluded than its outer reaches.
The branches of towering ancient trees intertwined overhead, weaving an impenetrable green canopy. Sunlight could only filter through gaps in the foliage, scattering tiny patches of light over ground blanketed in thick, rotting leaves, where they glimmered with dampness.
The air brimmed with an aura of life so rich it seemed almost tangible, mingled with the oppressive presence unique to high-level soul beasts. Every step demanded particular caution-a moment's carelessness could disturb a powerful soul beast lurking in the shadows.
Qian Daoliu walked at the front. The barrier of golden soul power surrounding him not only kept out the forest's cold, damp air but also acted as an invisible wall, driving away every trace of the low-level soul beasts roaming nearby.
His steps were steady, his gaze sweeping over the enormous trees entwined with dark green vines ahead. Pale golden light occasionally shimmered at his fingertips as he carefully sensed the surrounding fluctuations of soul power, ensuring no unknown danger lay hidden.
Bibi Dong and Xiao Wu's Mother followed side by side, both keeping their footsteps exceptionally light.
Xiao Wu was still sleeping soundly in her mother's arms, her exquisitely delicate little face buried in the soft, downy swaddling formed from her mother's soul body. Her long lashes trembled gently with each even breath. A faint pink glow surrounded Xiao Wu's Mother's soul body. Whenever she lowered her head to gaze at her daughter, tenderness nearly overflowed from her eyes, and even the soul power around her grew gentler.
"We're almost at Da Ming and Er Ming's territory."
Xiao Wu's Mother suddenly spoke, a barely perceptible note of anticipation in her voice.
"The last time I saw them was when I became