After stabilizing his cultivation, Li Hao turned his attention toward the Ice Flame Tiger cub, which had been quietly cultivating nearby and had grown noticeably stronger during this period, its aura now far more stable and its flames more controlled, indicating that it was ready for the next step, and without hesitation, Li Hao began forming a taming formation, his movements precise and calm as he guided the formation into place.
However, unlike ordinary taming processes, there was no struggle.
No resistance.
The cub stepped forward willingly, its eyes fixed on Li Hao as if it had already made its decision, and when the formation activated, the contract formed instantly, connecting their energies in a way that felt natural and complete, reinforcing the bond that had already been established between them.
This was not control.
This was partnership.