He glanced at Su Ling, who was deep in meditation. "She'll be occupied for a while."
Aric was aware of few other items which were Ye Chen's Opportunities in this Forbidden Grounds.
Leaving a note—"Went to scout ahead. Be back soon."—he set off toward the Moonshadow Lotus.
Using Mystic Wind Movement, he traversed the forest swiftly. The Shadowbane Amulet concealed his presence, ensuring he moved undetected.
Arriving at a tranquil pond bathed in moonlight, he spotted the Moonshadow Lotus floating serenely.
"As expected."
But as he reached for it, the water rippled violently. A serpentine creature emerged—a Water Serpent, its scales reflecting the moonlight.
"Another guardian."
The serpent lunged, water swirling around it like whips.
Aric activated Phantom Strike, dodging the attacks with ease. He countered with the Shadowwind Fan.
"Wind Blade!"
