"So mysterious?" Su Zimo became more and more astonished as she listened. It seemed that everyone around her, including the spiritual beasts, had their own stories.
"Momo, there are too many mysterious things in this world. If you don't believe me, let's go down and see for yourself."
As the Fire Phoenix flew lower, its excitement grew. It felt as if the person it loved was down below, and it had an overwhelming sense of longing.
"Be careful." A black flying eagle magical beast caught up to them. Its beak aimed for the Fire Phoenix's tail.
A cold gleam flashed in the Fire Phoenix's emerald-green eyes as it slightly lowered its body. The black flying eagle magical beast failed to achieve its goal and grew even angrier.
Su Zimo unleashed a gust of wind, pushing the black flying eagle magical beast back a few steps.
Seizing the opportunity, the Fire Phoenix descended another several dozen meters.
"Phew! That was close." Su Zimo patted her chest in relief.
Suddenly, Su Zimo felt a push against her body, as if she had entered a barrier.
She looked around, but apart from the pale night sky, there was nothing else.
Just as Su Zimo was wondering, a dark figure suddenly appeared.
A flicker of fear flashed in Su Zimo's eyes as she stared at the growing figure. It was entirely black, with only its outline visible. It resembled a giant bird with long legs, but in Su Zimo's eyes, it was unlike anything she had seen before. The only difference was its bright, fiery-red eyes, which were as big as the Fire Phoenix's foot.
"Fire Phoenix, are you sure you brought us the right way?" Su Zimo said with a mournful face. When there were no outsiders around, she often expressed her true emotions.
At that moment, she looked at the pair of blood-red eyes in the night sky, almost fainting. It was terrifying, more terrifying than any magical beast she had ever encountered. "Oh! Damn it, Su Zimo, what are you trying to prove? Tonight, you're going to meet your demise here."
Upon hearing this, the pair of blood-red eyes blinked, appearing less frightening and somewhat cute.
"Momo, I can assure you that I didn't bring us the wrong way. My memory is excellent."
Suddenly, the enormous shadow flew towards Su Zimo at high speed. Su Zimo closed her eyes, as if resigned to her fate. The speed was even faster than that of the Fire Phoenix.
A gust of wind blew, causing Su Zimo's eyelashes to tremble. Huh! Surprisingly, she was unharmed. She quickly opened her eyes and looked back, only to see the gigantic shadow with a black flying eagle magical beast in its mouth. In that scene, Su Zimo felt that she and the Fire Phoenix were not even enough to be used as dental floss for it.
"Fire Phoenix, now is our chance. Let's go back."
"Momo, I'm not as fast as it is."
The Fire Phoenix's voice trembled. It had never seen such a massive magical beast before.
"Fire Phoenix, are you ashamed? They are magical beasts, and you are a divine beast. There's a big difference between the two. If you can't fly faster than it, the two of us, with our small bodies, won't even be enough to floss its teeth."
"Momo, don't worry. It just flew above us, and it didn't harm us, did it? When did you become so flustered?"
The Fire Phoenix continued to descend, although it didn't want to. It felt as if an invisible force was pulling it downward.
Calm down. There was no one else around at this time. To hell with being calm. Right now, all Su Zimo wanted was a safe box to lock herself in, so she wouldn't die so miserably.
"Fire Phoenix, why are you flying lower and lower?" Su Zimo looked down and noticed that the Fire Phoenix was rapidly descending!
"Momo, I don't want to! But I can't fly higher! It feels like something is pulling me from below."
"What?" Su Zimo looked around, but there was nothing! Didn't they just leave the wolves' den and enter the tiger's den?
A dark shadow engulfed the entire bodies of the Fire Phoenix and Su Zimo. Su Zimo felt a chill down her spine, and a sense of terror surged from head to toe.
Raising her head, Su Zimo looked upward. A pair of red eyes suddenly appeared.
"What do you want to do?" Su Zimo spoke up, her voice trembling, which was unlike her usual self. She didn't want to die. She didn't want to have a fleeting life like the one described in books.
"Are you afraid of me?"
The black shadow suddenly spoke, and his voice was incredibly pleasant and melodic.
Su Zimo was slightly stunned. He could actually speak human language. Yes, human language. She didn't hear it wrong, and it sounded so good.
And that pleasant voice instantly relaxed Su Zimo.
"Who's afraid of you?" Su Zimo immediately put on a tough front, thinking she was all that. Was being fierce all that impressive?
"Are you a human?" A tinge of confusion and disbelief flashed in the red eyes of the black shadow. How could a human enter the barrier?
"Are there any differences between humans and magical beasts here?" Su Zimo blinked her beautiful eyes, unable to discern whether she was a human or a magical beast.
"Why do you ask that? Are there distinctions between humans and magical beasts here?" Su Zimo blinked her eyes at the shadow.
"Humans cannot enter the Magical Beast Continent."
A hint of confusion flickered in the red eyes of the shadow.
"What would happen if they did?"
The more Su Zimo asked, the less courage she had. Humans couldn't enter this Magical Beast Continent, so how did she end up here? She desperately wanted someone to tell her how she got here.
"Humans cannot survive here because it is not suitable for human habitation."
The voice remained just as pleasant, but the red-eyed shadow looked increasingly puzzled at Su Zimo's expression.
"What's unsuitable about it? This place is full of talented individuals and beautiful scenery."
Didn't the Fire Phoenix just say that this place is suitable for cultivators? Was the Fire Phoenix telling the truth, or was this shadow in front of her?
"This place used to be suitable, with great talent and beautiful surroundings. However, the Magical Beast Continent fell into chaos and was occupied by the Dark Beasts and Nightmare Demons. So, it has remained like this, devoid of any trace of light."
The shadow spoke with a sad expression, and its huge black eyes blinked, filled with sorrow.
Upon hearing this, Su Zimo thought it was too unlucky. Was she really going to risk her life just to kill a few birds?
"If humans were to live here, what would they need to do to survive?"
Su Zimo maintained her composure. After all, it was better to be alive than dead, right? She still had two sons and a daughter to take care of. She had just tasted the sweetness of love and didn't want to die so easily.
"We must wait for a destined person to appear and slay the Nightmare Demons. What kind of magical beast are you? How do you not know these things?"
The giant red eyes grew more and more puzzled, and their gaze at Su Zimo became cautious.
That's right, at this hour, magical beasts couldn't transform into human form. She wasn't a magical beast but a human.
She was riding a divine beast, and the strength of the demons she had just killed was very low. It was impossible for her to survive on this Magical Beast Continent. No wonder they were so delicate and petite.
"You're a human?"
Following that, a surprised voice containing a hint of excitement emerged.
"Yes, I am indeed a human. You also seem to be a very kind magical beast. Can you help us and guide us out? We accidentally entered your Magical Beast Continent."
Su Zimo quietly pleaded, looking pitiful. She didn't want to lose her dignity.
Suddenly, the shadow flapped its huge wings, causing Su Zimo's long hair to flutter.
Startled, Su Zimo and the Fire Phoenix swiftly distanced themselves.
The shadow was very displeased with their actions and stared straight at them with its crimson eyes.
Looking at their cute actions, a faint smile appeared on the lips hidden in the darkness.
"Don't worry, I won't harm you." The shadow softened its tone once again, filled with bewilderment.
Based on its voice, it seemed quite trustworthy.
"Follow me. Since you've already arrived in the Magical Beast Continent, rest here for a while before returning."
The shadow turned around, flapping its huge wings, regardless of whether Su Zimo and the Fire Phoenix agreed or not.
"Fire Phoenix, how much do you trust this magical beast?"
"Fifty-fifty!" The Fire Phoenix didn't care much since it couldn't sense any killing intent from the shadow.
"What does fifty-fifty mean? Can you speak in human terms?" Su Zimo was anxious and half-dead. She appeared composed on the surface, but inside, she was far from calm.
"Momo, you forget that I'm not a human to begin with."
The Fire Phoenix found it amusing. Was Momo scared now? In its impression, she was fearless.
"Is this the time for jokes?"
Su Zimo couldn't help but tap its head.
"Momo, you... You worry at the wrong times and don't worry when you should. There's no killing intent from it. It should be a kind-hearted magical beast. The magical beasts here are different from those in the No Return Mountain and the Enchanted Forest."
After the reminder from the Fire Phoenix, Su Zimo realized that despite her initial fear, she didn't actually dislike it. The shadow led them to a cliff on the top of a peak. There, a huge platform extended from it, and the shadow gradually shrank, eventually transforming into a human form. During the transformation, a strong aura emanated from the figure, impacting all of one's senses. Su Zimo widened her eyes. Was this the scene when a Divine Beast reached human form during its Ascension? The transformed being was a stunningly beautiful man, and Su Zimo couldn't help but think if it was unlucky or fortunate to encounter such a handsome man in the middle of the night.
"Miss, aren't you coming down?" the man asked, raising his eyes and smiling warmly at Su Zimo.
Su Zimo, feeling slightly embarrassed, replied, "Oh, coming right away." She realized that this man, like Shao Feng, had both a refined and elegant side and a youthful appearance.
The Fire Phoenix instructed Su Zimo to descend while it returned to rest in her dantian. The cave entrance was spacious enough for the man's body to enter without transforming.
Lanterns were lit on both sides of the cave, illuminating the surroundings and revealing the presence of strange flowers and unknown plants.
The cave walls were adorned with peculiar carvings, depicting flowers, human-like figures, and magical beasts in intricate and unique patterns.
A beautiful woman dressed in a gorgeous peach-colored gown appeared and reproached the man, saying, "Qing'er, where have you been? It's dangerous outside at this time. You shouldn't make your mother worry."
The beautiful woman's eyes filled with astonishment when she saw Su Zimo, and a hint of coldness appeared on her face as she asked, "Who is this girl?"
Su Zimo felt the woman's imposing manner and superiority as she looked down at her, causing her to frown slightly. It seemed that being a human in this realm was seen as strange or even unacceptable.
"She was saved by Qing'er at the barrier," the man explained with a smile, referring to Su Zimo.
The beautiful woman's face showed anger upon hearing that and looked at Su Zimo with caution.
Su Zimo couldn't help but feel puzzled. Was it really so strange for her to be a human? In the 21st century, humans and animals could be friends, but here, humans and magical beasts seemed to be eternal enemies.
"How did you enter the barrier?" the beautiful woman's voice turned sharp, her words biting, and a hint of killing intent appeared on her face.
This made Su Zimo feel extremely uncomfortable. "I also want to know how I entered," she replied in an unfriendly tone, matching the strong demeanor of the woman.
Upon hearing her words, the man in front of Su Zimo furrowed his brows. Meanwhile, a hint of surprise flashed in the beautiful woman's eyes. Yes, Su Zimo hadn't mistaken it. It was the same expression she had seen in the man just moments ago.
"Mother, please inform Father. Qing'er, take care of our esteemed guest," the beautiful woman said cheerfully before turning and walking away.
Su Zimo pursed her lips and furrowed her brow. The sudden change was too drastic. Just a moment ago, they seemed ready to kill her, and now she had become an esteemed guest. Su Zimo couldn't help but become wary. It seemed they were quite interested in her, this newcomer who happened to be a human.
"I am Long Yunqing. May I know the honorable name of the young lady?" Yunqing turned around and looked at Su Zimo with a friendly smile.
Su Zimo couldn't help but sneer inwardly. Did even the magical beasts understand human etiquette? She replied casually, "I am called Su Zimo."
Su Zimo's mind raced. The magical beast continent was recorded in the book her master had given her. However, the description in the book differed greatly from what she was currently seeing. People believed that the magical beast continent was merely a legend and didn't exist in the human world. Yet, it was not far from their human realm at all.
Long Yunqing led Su Zimo deeper into the place, and as they walked, the surroundings became wider and more beautiful.
"Where is our esteemed guest?" Suddenly, a deep and powerful voice filled with excitement rang out. A large group of people followed from behind, each one curiously observing Su Zimo. The leader, a man, looked at her with a mixture of surprise and delight.
"Esteemed guest, please come with me," he said, and the group entered the valley of the Bright Moon. The valley was filled with blooming Phoenixtail flowers, emitting a fragrant scent carried by the evening breeze.
Inside a simple cave illuminated by candlelight, two men dressed in white robes but with youthful appearances stood before a crystal ball. The crystal ball reflected Su Zimo's figure.
"Yuntian, that girl has finally arrived in the magical beast continent," Bai Qingjun's eyes revealed a hint of amusement. It had been quite a journey for her.
A white light flashed in the crystal ball, making Su Zimo's face even clearer.
Mo Yuntian nodded. "It is her destiny. She is fated to be connected to that place. Since it's destiny, she will go there sooner or later."
Mo Yuntian's expression remained calm, devoid of anger or joy. His beautiful eyes showed no ripples of emotion.
The two of them, aside from their white hair, appeared to be in their mid-twenties and possessed exceptionally handsome features. Especially Bai Qingjun, whose facial features were even more delicate than those of a woman. Being at the pinnacle of the Holy Profound Realm, their cultivation had reached a level higher than the peak, and their appearance and age had already stabilized, no longer subject to further aging.
"So, should we give her the Zunyu that is not destined for her? She's exhausted," Bai Qingjun said as he walked over to a stone bench and sat down. He glanced at Mo Yuntian with profound eyes.
Mo Yuntian looked at the crystal ball once again and spoke softly, "To become my disciple, there must be a reason for her not to suffer. Moreover, Mo'er possesses a stronger will than ordinary people."
Upon hearing this, a smile crept across Bai Qingjun's lips, and he spoke with a sense of pride, "Both of my disciples are remarkable. They learn diligently and fight effortlessly. It's been over two years, and I do miss them a bit."
Mo Yuntian sat down opposite Bai Qingjun and spoke slowly, "Mo'er has a unique constitution. Unlike Zisu, each opportunity she encounters is a chance for her to advance. Soon, they will understand that one's cultivation doesn't stop at the pinnacle of the Holy Profound Realm. Mo'er's desired progression will still rely on opportunities. And this journey to the Beast World will bring her many benefits."
"But your kit can only save Mo Mo three times, right?" Bai Qingjun frowned.
"That's correct," Mo Yuntian nodded. He picked up the cup of tea on the stone table, took a sip, and fell silent.
Su Zimo was brought into a magnificent palace. There were about ten men and women who kept staring at her, making her feel uneasy from all directions. How lucky was she to randomly stumble upon this Beast World? In her previous life, she never won millions in the lottery, did she?
"Miss, please have some tea," a middle-aged man who looked young but already had a dozen children said. Observing his many sons and daughters, Su Zimo couldn't help but sigh in amazement. Beasts were truly fertile. And what she wanted to ask was, are they all Super Divine Realm beasts capable of transforming on their own? If they were all Super Divine Realm beasts, it would be easier to crush her than an ant.
"Thank you!" Su Zimo smiled and replied, "I appreciate your hospitality, but my heart is with my family, and I'm in a hurry to go back..."
"I am Long Fu, and this is my wife, Shui Xing. Miss, there's a destined connection between you and us. Rest here for the night before you leave. Qing'er, arrange a room for Miss Su," Long Fu introduced himself.
"Yes, Father," Yun Qing stood up and walked inside.
Su Zimo glanced at them. They wouldn't let her leave tonight. Oh no! She couldn't send a signal from here either. Yun Xuan would be worried about her.
"Excuse me, I'd like to let my family know I'm safe. Can I send a signal from here?" Su Zimo looked at Long Fu, Yun Xuan, and Li'er. If they hadn't seen her return, they would be frantic.
"To be frank, Miss Su, the Beast World is no longer the same as before. It is now occupied by the demonic nightmare creatures. You saw it when you arrived. This land has been shrouded in darkness for a hundred years. It's no longer as picturesque as it was a hundred years ago. If a human signal is transmitted, the demonic nightmare creatures will quickly detect another human entering the Beast World. We are afraid that even we won't be able to save you then," Long Fu explained, his words weighted with concern.
Upon hearing this, Su Zimo found it hard to believe. This place had been enveloped in darkness for a hundred years. She wondered how the beasts had managed to survive all this time.
"When can I leave then?" Su Zimo didn't want to dwell on other matters. She only wanted to return to her leisurely life, and as soon as daybreak arrived, she would follow her parents back to the Li Xia Kingdom. Now, whether she had the fate to return or not was another matter.
"After you finish what you need to do, then you can leave," Long Fu smiled and replied. Perhaps she was the person they had been waiting for, after a hundred years of waiting.
Finish what she needed to do? What was that? Su Zimo raised her eyes and looked at Long Fu, inquiringly.
"Miss, during the ancient era, the era of the beasts, it was a peak time when countless peak-stage Holy Profound Realm humans and Super Divine Realm beasts coexisted. A legendary beast called the Transcendent Dragon spent all its lifeblood to create this Beast World. But it was because of the birth of this Beast World that the peak era also came to its destruction. The land here has been occupied by the demonic nightmare creatures, which possess dark powers. Before the Transcendent Dragon died, it prophesied that after a hundred years, someone destined would come to free the Beast World from its misfortune. Only a person with a pure heart can use the Xuan Ice Soul from the Eight Great Profound Artifacts and bathe in the Holy Water in the Beast Pond. This power can destroy heaven and earth and kill the demonic nightmare creatures."
Upon hearing this, Su Zimo widened her eyes. Such a thing existed? Well, other people might believe it, but she, Su Zimo, didn't. So, they wanted the person with the Xuan Ice Soul, who happened to possess one of the Eight Great Profound Artifacts, to kill the demonic nightmare creatures? It was quite a coincidence that she happened to have the Xuan Ice Soul.