But Zhen Yu had no idea if he would, or if she would be lost to the bloom's power before he could reach her. All she could do was hold on, praying that he would come before it was too late.
Just then, another group of beasts emerged from the shadows—Ironclaw Bears, their massive forms towering over her. The bears were also Rank 4 beasts, their strength even more terrifying than the wolves. Zhen Yu's heart pounded in her chest as she faced them, her vision swimming from the combined effects of her earlier injuries and the plant's intoxicating scent.
From the shadows, Aric watched the entire scene unfold. His eyes gleamed with a cold, calculated light as he observed Zhen Yu's struggle. He knew the moment was near—the moment when he would step in and play the hero, cementing his place in her heart.
