The atmosphere around the stage was positively jubilant. The air was filled with excitement and anticipation as the participants eagerly awaited the start of the hunt.
The surroundings were alive with energy and enthusiasm.
With a commanding presence, Elder Zheng Wei's voice boomed across the stage, "Now, let me state the rules," as his words reverberated throughout the arena. "There will be no allowance of special artifacts or weapons, you will be given a recording crystal to put on your body, and no account are you allowed to remove the recording crystal during the hunting stage," he continued, his voice unwavering.
He scanned the arena, his eyes piercing through the crowd, before asking, "Does anyone have a question to ask about the arrangements?"
In the arena, there was a resounding silence as not a single person uttered a word. It was apparent that the majority of the spectators were already well-versed in the regulations of the competition.
After a brief pause, Elder Zheng Wei spoke up and announced, "In this year's hunting stage, a few modifications will be implemented."
A stir rippled through the crowds upon hearing the words of Elder Zheng Wei, for never before has there been any alteration to the Cloud Gathering Contest for a considerable period.
With a resounding voice, he declared that the hunting phase "for this year shall take place within the Thousand Beast Valley."
As soon as Elder Zheng Wei uttered those words, a great uproar erupted among the crowd.
Zhong Peng was taken aback by the sudden commotion, but then he was even more astonished by the reactions of the people upon hearing about the Thousand Beast Valley.
Leaning toward Xiao Se, Zhong Peng inquired in hushed tones, "What exactly is the Thousand Beast Valley?" he inquired with a curious expression.
He has been depending more on Xiao Se for information lately.
In a hushed tone, Xiao Se responded, "It is a place unlike any other, infested with powerful and perilous qi beasts, the valley lies at the boundary between the Zheng Great Kingdom and the Windcrest Empire, and even cultivators on the Nirvana Tribulation cultivation level dare not venture too deep into it."
"What?!" Zhong Peng nearly exclaimed aloud, but quickly covered his mouth to muffle his voice.
After regaining his composure, he questioned in a grave tone, "Why would they send us to such a perilous place, knowing full well of its danger? Are they purposely trying to eliminate the contestants?"
"I believe there must be a reason behind their decision. Let us hear what Elder Zheng Wei has to say about it," suggested Xiao Se.
Agreeing with Xiao Se, Zhong Peng turned his gaze towards the stage where Elder Zheng Wei was standing, the commotion in the arena had gradually subsided, and Elder Zheng Wei resumed speaking, "Now that everyone has calmed down, let us make our way towards the entrance of the Thousand Beast Valley. It is there that I shall provide further details regarding the hunting contest."
With the commencement of the elder Zheng Wei's movement, flying beasts swiftly took to the skies and soared in unison towards a singular course.
In response, the elder Duanmu assumed command and guided the team onto the Wind roc, riding it as they followed the procession of the flying Qi beasts.
The Thousand Beast Valley was situated close to the Zheng Imperial Clan, hence the journey toward it was rather short and they arrived expeditiously.
Upon their arrival, Zhong Peng was taken aback by the unexpected sight before him.
Instead of the lush and verdant landscape he had anticipated, he was greeted by a desolate expanse of mountains and rocks devoid of any verdure whatsoever.
Amidst this barren terrain, there loomed a mountain with an opening that appeared to be the only pathway through the mountain range.
However, it was obstructed by an enormous sealing formation, suggesting that something of great significance was being held within.
Zhong Peng turned to Xiao Se, who stood by his side, and posed a query, "Why is the entrance sealed?."
Xiao Se turned his head towards him and began to speak of what he had learned about the Thousand Beast Valley. "From what I have gathered," he began, "the valley was once home to many qi beasts, making it a prime location for both training and hunting for cultivators.
However, this all changed six decades ago when a powerful royal bloodline qi beast appeared and led an army of a thousand beasts to..." Before he could finish his sentence, Zhong Peng interrupted him.
"An army of a thousand qi beasts, you say?" Zhong Peng interjected, his curiosity piqued. "Is that how the Thousand Beast Valley earned its name?"
"Indeed, based on my understanding, it seems highly like that is the origin of the valley's name," Xiao Se replied.