The valley remained silent.
Even after Situ's breakthrough had ended, the heavens and earth seemed unwilling to return to normal.
Ancient trees swayed gently.
The mountain winds carried an unusual stillness.
The countless beasts inhabiting the surrounding region remained hidden within their territories, instinctively avoiding the valley where Situ stood.
Something about him had changed.
Not merely his cultivation.
Not merely his physical strength.
But his very existence.
The Five Animals tattoos continued moving beneath his skin.
The Bear upon his back breathed steadily.
The Tiger on his right arm prowled silently.
The Crane upon his left arm spread its wings from time to time.
The Deer on his chest walked gracefully beneath his flesh.
The Monkey around his waist occasionally scratched its head and grinned.
They were alive.
Yet this was not what attracted Goro's attention.
The golden ape suddenly sniffed the air.
Then sniffed again.
His eyes widened.
