Chapter 76: The Heavenly Flame Mountain Range
After helping Qingtan alleviate her recurring cold surges, Lin Langtian and his companions from the main family settled in comfortably at the Lin family branch in Yan City. Because Qingtan's bouts of Yin energy had become more frequent, and given that Lin Langtian's Black Flame powers were uniquely effective against this chill, he often stayed close to her side. Over these few days, he grew closer to Lin Dong's family, with even Qingtan, typically proud and distant, warming up to him noticeably.
During this time, Lin Chen and the others from the main family also resided with the Lin family branch. Humbled by his loss to Lin Dong and Lin Langtian's earlier advice, Lin Chen restrained his previously arrogant behavior toward the branch family. In this calm, peaceful atmosphere, the days slipped by.
When the morning sun cast its first rays on the third day, Yan City bustled to life again after a quiet night. News of the ancient tomb's discovery had spread rapidly, fueling excitement throughout the city, which lay close to the Heavenly Flame Mountain Range. As countless people arrived in Yan City, many paused to prepare and then set out in groups toward the mountains. The allure of a Nirvana-level warrior's tomb was powerful for all who dared to seek it.
The main courtyard of the Lin family compound was equally busy as Lin Langtian and the others prepared to leave for the mountains.
"Since everyone's here, let's get moving," Lin Langtian said as he looked around to confirm the group was ready.
As the group stirred into action, Lin Langtian's gaze lingered on Lin Dong, particularly the formidable Fire Python Tiger by his side. Unlike ordinary Fire Python Tigers, this beast was larger, exuded a fiercer aura, and even displayed a striking intelligence in its eyes. He guessed that this was none other than Lin Yan, the third "brother" in Lin Dong's trio from his past life. Although its bloodline level was low, Lin Yan was remarkable for its rare mutation, which, with Lin Dong and the marten's help, would eventually evolve into the legendary Dark Sacred Tiger.
Watching Lin Yan, Lin Langtian felt a twinge of nostalgia. He'd once hoped to find and raise a mutated beast with the help of the Lin family's resources, one that could serve as a powerful companion on the battlefield. However, mutated beasts were both incredibly rare and difficult to identify. After nearly a year of searching without success, he'd reluctantly abandoned the idea. Of all the beasts he'd encountered in his rebirth, the one he couldn't forget was the mysterious black-gold beast egg from the royal auction—though, unfortunately, it had been snatched up by Ling Qingzhu.
"Young Master Langtian, I'm counting on you to look after Lin Dong on this journey," Lin Zhentian said as he approached, smiling warmly.
"Of course, Elder Lin," Lin Langtian replied with a small smile. "As the family's enforcer, it's my duty to protect our kin, whether they're from the main or branch family."
"Thank you, Young Master Langtian," Lin Xiao added gratefully. Though Lin Xiao wasn't one to curry favor, he couldn't help but feel a sense of respect and admiration for Lin Langtian. When he thought back to his own defeat at the hands of the younger Lin Langtian years ago, he remembered how deeply it had wounded both his pride and spirit. Yet he had grown wiser with time and now understood that compared to the vastness of the empire, a small place like Qingyang Town was almost inconsequential. A talent like Lin Langtian's, one that could shine across the empire, was something to take pride in, not be ashamed of.
After some polite conversation, Lin Langtian mounted his horse, nodded to the group, and led the way. Lin Chen, Lin Keke, and Lin Dong, riding atop his Fire Python Tiger, quickly followed suit.
The Heavenly Flame Mountain Range spanned the borders of Yan City and two nearby cities, stretching across nearly half of Tiandu County. Known as the county's most extensive mountain range, its sheer size made it truly awe-inspiring. In recent days, it had become a hotspot for adventurers, its once quiet valleys and peaks now bustling with travelers and treasure seekers. The influx of people came with dangers; many unlucky souls perished in the dense wilderness, claimed either by wild beasts or the weapons of lurking enemies. Anyone venturing into the mountains without skill or caution would likely meet a swift end.
But with Lin Langtian leading them, their journey was secure. Yan City lay about a day's ride from the mountain range, so by the time they reached its edge, night was already falling, and the glow of distant campfires flickered through the trees.
"We'll make camp here for the night," Lin Langtian said, noting the darkening sky. "We'll enter the mountains at dawn."
"Understood, Brother Langtian," Lin Keke and the others replied, echoing his decision. Even Lin Dong, though not overly friendly, had grown more civil toward Lin Langtian since the latter had offered to help Qingtan condense her Yin Pill.
Following Lin Langtian's instructions, Lin Chen and the rest began setting up camp with the guards who had accompanied them. In no time, a simple camp was ready, set up for a night's rest before the challenges awaiting them in the Heavenly Flame Mountains.
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