As Lin Tian left the sanctuary, a chilling wind greeted him. The air felt heavier, laced with malice. He could sense eyes watching him from the shadows.
"Impressive," a cold voice echoed. "You've gained the Dragon's Scales. But let's see how well they protect you."
A figure stepped out from the mist—a woman clad in black robes, her face obscured by a mask. Her presence exuded danger, and Lin Tian's instincts flared.
"Who are you?" he demanded, his golden aura flaring.
She laughed, her voice dripping with disdain. "I am Mei Ling, an envoy of the Abyssal Order. Your awakening has disturbed the balance, Lin Tian. The Abyss does not forgive such transgressions."
Without warning, she attacked, her movements swift and deadly. Lin Tian barely had time to react, blocking her strikes with his newly acquired Dragon's Scales. Sparks flew as her blade clashed against his armor, but Lin Tian held his ground.
"You'll have to try harder than that," he said, countering with a burst of golden energy. Mei Ling dodged, her eyes narrowing.
"This isn't over," she hissed, disappearing into the mist. "The Abyss will come for you."