Chapter 121: Encounter

Although the Spirit Gathering Array set up by Yin Tianfang was modest in size, it had been accumulating energy for several months, resulting in a terrifying concentration of spiritual power within the valley. This dense energy condensed into a faint mist, causing the surrounding flora to grow with wild, unnatural vigor.

The Sky-Winged Demon Tiger stood guard in the valley, greedily inhaling the spiritual essence of heaven and earth. The cultivation it had lost during the ritual sacrifice of its soul blood was rapidly restored under the nourishment of this dense energy, and its strength even surpassed its previous peak.

However, as it watched Yin Tianfang still deep in meditation, the Sky-Winged Demon Tiger could not help but feel anxious. Its soul blood was held in Yin Tianfang's hands; if any mishap were to befall him, the tiger would certainly perish as well. Furthermore, even if Yin Tianfang remained safe, the ever-increasing concentration of spiritual energy in the valley would inevitably attract powerful entities.

Seven days passed amidst the tiger’s growing apprehension. During this time, a large number of exotic beasts had gathered on the periphery of the valley, breathing in the spiritual mist. While such a location was a prime cultivation spot for both cultivators and beasts, they dared not enter; the intense demonic aura radiating from the Sky-Winged Demon Tiger kept them at bay. Yet, the tiger knew this was only temporary; should a more powerful beast appear, the valley would surely be breached.

Suddenly, a streak of light flashed across the sky and stopped abruptly above the valley. As the radiance faded, it revealed a massive flying sword carrying several figures. At the lead stood an old man, followed by a middle-aged man and several youths.

"Uncle-Master, why have we stopped?" the middle-aged man asked. The old man did not reply, merely gesturing toward the valley below.

The others followed his gaze and quickly noticed the anomaly. "These beasts are gathered around the valley, and the spiritual energy here is far denser than in the surrounding area," the middle-aged man noted. "Could it be that some treasure is about to manifest?"

"I do not know if there is a treasure, but such an anomaly suggests this place is extraordinary. Come, follow me down," the old man said, waving his sleeve. The giant sword changed direction and descended toward the valley entrance.

The arrival of the sword drew the gaze of the many beasts, some of which emitted low, warning growls. The old man let out a cold snort, like a peal of thunder, striking fear into the creatures. A formidable aura erupted from him, sweeping across the area and causing the beasts to tremble, kneel, and stare in terror.

As the old man and his companions approached the entrance, a thunderous tiger roar echoed from within. A massive figure surged out, radiating a terrifying demonic aura—it was the Sky-Winged Demon Tiger. It blocked their path, staring at them with bell-like eyes filled with warning.

"Oh? A wondrous beast indeed," the old man remarked, a hint of surprise in his voice. "It would make a fine mount." He chuckled, then raised his hand and flicked his sleeve, sending a massive spectral hand reaching toward the tiger.

Infuriated by the man’s casual arrogance, the tiger roared, its body erupting in brilliant light. It swelled to over a dozen yards in size, resembling a small mountain. With a terrifying surge of power, it raised a massive claw and slammed it into the spectral hand. With a loud *bang*, the hand shattered.

The old man squinted but remained calm. "Stand back," he ordered his companions, rising into the air to face the gargantuan beast. "Creature, submit to me, and I shall spare your life!"

The only response was another furious roar and a swipe of a colossal tiger claw.

"Insolent fool!" The old man was incensed. He flicked his sleeve again, releasing a streak of light that transformed into a shimmering flying sword, which darted toward the tiger.

*Clang! Clang!*

The sword struck the tiger’s hide, but could not penetrate it. Its fur was as tough as forged iron, and the strikes sounded like hammers hitting an anvil. Frowning, the old man recalled the blade. He formed a series of hand seals, and the spiritual energy of the world surged, manifesting a massive spectral mountain peak above the tiger's head.

"Crush!" With a forceful downward press of his hands, the mountain descended, pinning the tiger to the ground. The earth shook, and the tiger’s limbs were driven deep into the soil.

Roaring in agony and rage, the tiger’s eyes burned red. Drawing upon a terrifying reserve of strength, it began to stand up under the immense pressure. It opened its maw and fired a concentrated beam of light at the old man.

The old man remained serene. He tapped his storage pouch, and a mirror flew out, hovering before him. With a flick of his finger, the mirror expanded. As the tiger’s beam hit the surface, it seemed to be swallowed by the glass, only to be instantly reflected back toward the beast.

*Boom!* The beam struck the pinned tiger, causing it to let out a pained howl as it was sent flying, crashing into a small hill behind it and shattering the rock face. As the tiger struggled to rise from the rubble, its scarlet eyes fixed on the old man with a flicker of terror.

The tiger glanced toward the nearby mountain where Yin Tianfang remained in seclusion. Despite the violent commotion, there was not a single sign of movement from within.