As they drew closer, Annie and the other two finally saw Pei Ze.
He was with a Half Deer Maiden.
Tining.
Yin Xue recalled her name.
Beneath the tree's canopy, Tining was kneeling on the ground, her body slightly turned. Pei Ze was resting his head on the maiden's snow-white, doe-like abdomen, seemingly taking a nap.
The maiden gazed unblinkingly at Pei Ze's profile, a genuine smile on her face. Her expression was one of intense focus, as if she were looking at some priceless treasure.
She didn't even notice Annie and the others approach.
It wasn't until Xiaoyi let out a soft cry that she snapped back to reality as if waking from a dream, her clear eyes curiously sizing up the three newcomers.
Annie's gaze swept over the Half Deer Maiden, a flash of astonishment in her eyes.
'Another level-six combatant, right after that Golden Oak Tree.'
'And judging by the faint aura of the Rule of Life lingering around her, she's not far from a breakthrough.'
