Chapter 4883: Great Emperor Xiao Tian “What’s the matter? What preparation?” Yue’er wrinkled her little nose as she asked. The lion gazed out at the pitch-black sky and said, “When I advanced earlier, three lightning tribulations struck. I fear it may have alarmed the descendants of the Great Emperor Xiao Tian. They must already know a Sacred Beast has been born in this forest. Knowing this, they will certainly send men in to search. Therefore…” “So they’ll come looking for you, and might very well run into me!” Yue’er now grasped the gravity of the situation. If she were captured, who knew what fate awaited her? This place was utterly cut off from the world—even if she cried for help, no one would know she’d ended up here! She rose to her feet, pacing the cave while murmuring to herself, “Let me think… there must be a way…” Night deepened. The forest after the rain exuded the scent of earth and fallen leaves. Breezes swept into the cave, bringing waves of coolness. The lion, concerned his young mistress might catch a chill, invited her to sleep beside him, offering the warmth of his body and the comfort of his thick fur. Bound by their master-servant pact, Yue’er felt reassured, knowing the lion would never harm her. After all, one ironclad rule of such contracts was that should the master perish, the pact beast could not survive. After much deliberation, Yue’er found no solution. Resigned, she curled up beside the lion and fell asleep… The following dawn, at the Xiao Family Manor, disciples of all ages stood in orderly rows before the clearing, listening to the Patriarch’s address and instructions. “This forest trial is meant to hone your adaptability and combat prowess. Remember: Xiao family disciples must always support one another. The foremost clan rule is etched in your minds—never raise a hand against kin.” Patriarch Xiao stood with his hands clasped behind his back, delivering his address. Upon receiving the respectful acknowledgement from the assembled, he continued: “Once within the forest, you must rely solely upon one another for support. Ensure your own safety above all else. This is a trial to enhance your combat prowess, not a mission to sacrifice your lives. Should you encounter danger beyond your capacity to handle, remember to shatter your jade token immediately to be transported back.” “Yes, Patriarch!” the group responded once more. “Elder, escort them to the teleportation array,” the Patriarch Xiao instructed the elder standing beside him. “Understood,” the elder acknowledged, leading the group towards the array. Watching them depart, the Patriarch Xiao surveyed the surroundings, furrowing his brow. “Why has Junyan not arrived? Did you inform him?” A middle-aged man stepped forward from behind. “I did, Patriarch. The Young Master set out early this morning.” Hearing this, Patriarch Xiao remained silent for a moment before sighing. “That child is naturally aloof. While there are outstanding young talents within the family, none have caught his eye or earned his companionship. I had intended for Junheng to accompany him, yet it seems he has departed ahead of us.” “The young master need not worry, Patriarch. He is the most gifted and capable scion the Xiao family has seen in centuries. Even the Old Predecessor speaks of him in the highest terms. He will manage perfectly well on his own,” the middle-aged man assured him. “Go and inform Junheng. Once in the forest, he must seek out Junyan. It would be best if they journey together, for that is a Sacred Beast,” Patriarch Xiao instructed, his concern evident. “Understood.” The middle-aged man acknowledged before swiftly departing towards the teleportation array. Meanwhile, deep within the forest, Yue’er sat astride the lion’s back, darting swiftly through the forest…