Deep inside the Gloomy Forest, the light grew increasingly dim. Dense tree canopies blocked out most of the sunlight, leaving only scattered patches of light to fall upon the rotting leaves on the ground. The air was thick with a pungent, foul stench—the distinct scent of the Wolf King's lair.
"Be careful," Lu Chen whispered as a reminder. "The Wolf King has a huge perception range, and it will summon minions."
Lin Xiu nodded and activated Stealth. His figure gradually merged with the surrounding shadows, and his breathing became barely audible. This was the first time he had used the skill in actual combat, and it felt incredible, as if his entire being had transformed into a part of the darkness.
Bai Zhi raised her staff and began to chant softly: "Eye of Light!"
A soft white light spread outward from the tip of the staff, illuminating the path ahead. Only then did Lin Xiu clearly see a huge cave not far away, its entrance piled high with the skeletal remains of various animals.
"Prepare for battle." Lu Chen gripped his greatsword tightly, his muscles tensing. "Lin Xiu, you're responsible for clearing out the summoned minions. Bai Zhi, watch the healing. I'll hold off the Wolf King."
Just as his voice fell, a deafening roar echoed from the cave. Immediately after, a giant wolf the size of an elephant surged out. Its entire body was pitch black, its eyes blood-red, and its fangs were a full half-meter long.
"Here it comes!" Lu Chen shouted loudly, charging forward to meet it.
The greatsword collided with the Wolf King's sharp claws, producing a harsh, screeching sound of metal friction. Lin Xiu watched with his heart in his throat; this level of combat completely exceeded his imagination.
"Don't just stand there!" Bai Zhi's voice pulled him back to reality. "The minions are here!"
Sure enough, more than a dozen Shadow Wolves swarmed in from all directions. Lin Xiu took a deep breath, gripped his dagger tightly, and charged forward. His movements were smoother than before, and every strike precisely hit a fatal spot.
[Experience gained: 50]
[Experience gained: 50]
...
As his level continuously rose, Lin Xiu could feel his strength growing as well. But the number of Shadow Wolves was simply too vast, and his stamina began to run low.
"Hold on!" Bai Zhi's voice reached him, and a warm white light enveloped him. "Heal!"
His stamina instantly recovered by more than half, and Lin Xiu felt a surge of renewed energy as he plunged back into the fight. On the other side, Lu Chen's battle with the Wolf King had also reached a fever pitch. The greatsword had left several wounds on the Wolf King, but Lu Chen's situation was not looking optimistic either; his armor was broken in multiple places, and blood kept seeping out.
"Lin Xiu!" Lu Chen suddenly shouted. "Use your Stealth skill and attack the Wolf King's eyes!"
Lin Xiu immediately understood his intention. He activated Stealth and silently slipped around to the Wolf King's back. The Wolf King was locked in fierce combat with Lu Chen and completely failed to notice his approach.
Now's the chance!
Lin Xiu leaped up fiercely, driving his dagger straight into the Wolf King's right eye. The Wolf King let out a miserable, shrill screech and began to struggle frantically. Seizing the opportunity, Lu Chen brought his greatsword down in a ferocious slash across the Wolf King's neck.
[Experience gained: 1000]
[Level increased to Level 5]
The Wolf King's massive body crashed heavily to the ground, dissolving into specks of light that faded away. Lin Xiu collapsed sitting on the ground, panting heavily. He had never experienced such a thrilling and heart-pounding battle before.
"Well done!" Bai Zhi ran over, an excited smile blooming on her face. "You two worked together with incredible coordination!"
Lu Chen also wore a rare smile. "Not bad, rookie. Your potential is even greater than I imagined."
Lin Xiu looked at his own hands, feeling the surging power within his body. He knew this was only the beginning. In this world, countless unknown challenges were waiting for him.
"Where are we going next?" he asked.
Bai Zhi smiled mysteriously. "The second dungeon, Lava Cave. I heard there's a rare fire-attribute gemstone there..."
Lu Chen interrupted, "Let's head back to the city to rest and regroup first. The rookie needs better equipment."
The three of them exchanged smiles and walked out of the forest. The afterglow of the setting sun spilled over them, stretching their shadows long. Lin Xiu looked back at the Gloomy Forest, the corners of his mouth curving slightly upward.
This journey into another world seemed far more exciting than he had ever imagined.