The moment the ascendant-ranked beasts emerged from the swirling storm, the entire mountain trembled as though it feared their presence. Their massive forms blotted out what little light the sky offered, and the air around them crackled with killing intent so dense it almost suffocated those of weaker cultivation. The ground split beneath their steps, releasing a deep groan that echoed through the mountain range.
Lucas's expression darkened. The beasts had been waiting...patient, coordinated, intelligent. They weren't just attacking mindlessly; they had been assessing the group's strength, testing their limits with the earlier waves. And now, with the weaker ones exhausted, they chose to strike.
The Empress's face was stoic, her posture calm, but her aura did not flare. Instead, she turned to Lucas, her tone firm yet composed. "Handle them."
