After a brief cleanup, Zhao Wuji decided to search the nearby area for a suitable Man-Faced Demon Spider for Tang San, taking advantage of the remaining daylight. He didn't allow everyone to rest in place, mostly out of concern that Snake Granny might return with Dragon Duke to cause trouble, although that was unlikely. As they searched for spirit beasts, they also covered their tracks, and when they failed to find the Man-Faced Demon Spider, they set up camp.
Su Ming had considered using his Wood Release to create a house for rest, but that would make them too conspicuous in the forest, increasing the chances of trouble. Moreover, a house could limit their ability to respond to danger quickly.
The next morning, they continued their search for a suitable Man-Faced Demon Spider for Tang San. Because of the spider's aggressive nature and rapid movement, Zhao Wuji was extra cautious, making sure everyone stayed close and avoided making unnecessary noise. Despite searching for two full days, they still hadn't found one.
Tang San felt a bit disappointed. If he couldn't find a suitable Man-Faced Demon Spider, he would have to settle for another type of spirit beast. His teacher had selected the spider as his first choice for a third spirit ring but had also provided alternative suggestions in case it couldn't be found. These backup options were common spirit beasts that could be absorbed if their age was appropriate.
However, Tang San was unwilling to accept one of the alternatives. The gap between him and Su Ming and Xiao Wu was already significant. Moreover, their spirit skills seemed extraordinary, making him even more eager to obtain the Man-Faced Demon Spider as his third spirit ring.
Along the way, they encountered several decent thousand-year spirit beasts, but none were suitable for Tang San, while most of the others were just hundred-year spirit beasts.
Zhao Wuji's cautious approach this time was partly due to the need to protect eight students, including two without any combat ability, with himself as the sole teacher. Additionally, given the dangerous nature of the Man-Faced Demon Spider, which was highly elusive, he had to be extra careful. Some of these students had prestigious backgrounds, making Zhao Wuji wary of taking risks. A single accident could have disastrous consequences.
Su Ming scoffed inwardly. This is the real reason, right? For the previous generations without connections, you probably didn't care this much.
During these two days, the three girls remained relatively relaxed, having already known from Su Ming's diary that the Man-Faced Demon Spider would only appear after the Titan Giant Ape's arrival. Since no formidable spirit beasts had appeared yet, they stuck close to Su Ming, finding it more reassuring than staying near Zhao Wuji.
The others, however, were not as lucky. They had been on high alert for the past two days, even though Oscar's sausages helped replenish their strength. Everyone was beginning to feel physically and mentally exhausted.
That evening, after dinner, everyone rested while Zhao Wuji approached Tang San. "Little San, are you feeling anxious?"
Tang San's inner thoughts were spot on, but he maintained a calm facade, shaking his head and saying, "Finding the right spirit beast is always a matter of luck, and since I'm looking for a Man-Faced Demon Spider, there's no need to rush. Don't worry, Teacher Zhao. I have the patience for this. After all, I've been stuck at level 30 for a while now, so what's a bit more time?"
"Taking it slow and being steady will lead to better development in the future!"
Zhao Wuji was impressed by Tang San's maturity. This boy, at such a young age, has an impressive mindset. No wonder he's that man's son! He sighed and said, "The Star Dou Forest isn't as prosperous as it used to be. It's become desolate, and it's getting harder to find suitable spirit beasts. I wonder what's causing this."
Su Ming thought, Isn't it obvious? The rampant hunting by spirit masters is the main reason. If this keeps up without restraint, spirit beasts will become even rarer. Spirit beasts grow much more slowly than spirit masters. Of course, the deeper reason is this cursed dimension's rules!
As Zhao Wuji and Tang San were conversing, Zhao Wuji's smile suddenly vanished. He quickly pulled Tang San behind him, releasing his spirit. His Mighty Vajra Bear appeared, and he growled, "Everyone, get out of the tents now! Hurry!"
Su Ming had already sensed the presence of a powerful aura approaching from afar. The energy was rapidly closing in on them, locked onto their position. It didn't take long for him to realize it was the Titan Giant Ape.
The others quickly exited their tents. The three girls immediately positioned themselves next to Su Ming, knowing the approaching force was most likely the Titan Giant Ape.
Ning Rongrong quickly asked in the diary: Xiao Wu, is the Titan Giant Ape here for you? Can you sense its aura?
Xiao Wu concentrated and replied, Yes, I'm familiar with this energy. It's definitely Er Ming. When he arrives, you and Zhuqing should retreat and avoid fighting. I'll send a mental message to him, telling him not to harm you.
Ning Rongrong and Zhu Zhuqing exchanged glances and nodded in agreement. They had no intention of risking their lives.
Dai Mubai rushed to Zhao Wuji's side and asked with a frown, "Teacher Zhao, what's happening?"
Zhao Wuji didn't answer Dai Mubai but instead spoke gravely, "Stay behind me. If something happens, don't worry about me—just run and leave the Star Dou Forest as fast as you can."
Then, he turned to Su Ming and said, "Su Ming, you're the strongest. I'm counting on you to protect everyone."
Neither Dai Mubai nor Tang San knew why Zhao Wuji was so tense, but they quickly summoned their spirits, realizing the danger must be real.
Su Ming nodded, but he was already thinking of a way to join the Titan Giant Ape if it came to take Xiao Wu away.
At that moment, a massive figure appeared silently before them. The sight of it left everyone frozen, as if their hearts had stopped beating.