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1Chapter 979: Strength Gap
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5"What happened?"
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7"How did those Assassins die?"
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9"That Skill is so powerful!"
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11The spectating players on the street were dumbfounded by what had just happened.
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13Shi Feng's sword drawing speed was incredibly fast. They hadn't even seen an afterimage of Shi Feng's swords. They had barely seen Shi Feng's arms move, and in the blink of an eye, not only had the Assassins died, but even the distant Berserker was left in a critical condition…
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15"Is this the strength of Zero Wing's Ye Feng?"
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17"So awesome!"
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19"He's too strong!"
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21Experts from other Guilds, who had come to White River City to grind for Reputation, stood among the spectators. Ordinary players might not realize what Shi Feng had done and would assume that he had simply used a system-learned Skill, but as experts, they knew that Shi Feng's attack was no such thing.
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23When Shi Feng first used this "Skill," they had been uncertain. This time, however, they had watched its execution carefully.
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25No matter what stance a player used to execute a learned Skill, they all had the same starting motions. Moreover, the closer a player's movements were to the required actions the system had determined, the higher their Skill Completion Rate would be.
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27However, Shi Feng's initial motions the second time he executed the "Skill" were different from the first.
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29Furthermore, how could such a powerful "Skill" be used twice within one second? The skill had also been more powerful during its second use. No matter how they thought about it, this was out of line with God's Domain's rules.
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31The only explanation was that…
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33This was a combat technique!
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35The various Guild experts couldn't help but shudder.
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37Unlike system Skills, combat techniques were not limited by Cooldowns or other restrictions. Even while Silenced, they could use their combat techniques with normal attacks. The only downside was the burden on a player's Stamina and Concentration.
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39Those who attacked using special combat techniques knew that the more powerful a technique was, the more of a burden it had on Stamina and Concentration.
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41Meanwhile, of the two Assassin experts Shi Feng had defeated, both were Level 39. Both could easily rank among the top of any kingdom's Ranking List. As for the Berserker Lethal Gale, they were even more familiar with him. After all, he was the Berserker who had dueled Gentle Snow just some moments ago. With Lethal Gale's combat standards, he could rank highly even among Super Guilds' experts.
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43Yet, even when all three players had worked together, they had been beaten so badly…
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45However, among the watching players, no one was more shocked than Gentle Snow.
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47Is this really the Ye Feng I know?
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49She had personally experienced Lethal Gale's power. If not for her Peak Legacy, there was no way in hell she would have defeated the male Berserker.
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51In spite of that, Shi Feng had ended the battle in three moves.
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53Gentle Snow was even under the false impression that Lethal Gale and his Assassins were, in fact, quite weak. She knew that wasn't true. Shi Feng was just that strong.
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55Despite such fierce attacks, not only had Shi Feng nullified the attacks, but he had also dealt Lethal Gale and his companions such a devastating blow.
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57Before this, Gentle Snow had never seen Shi Feng's true strength. Now, she finally understood that they were no longer on the same level…
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59"Focus your attacks on Gentle Snow!" Lethal Gale, who looked pitiful, hurriedly commanded as he retreated from Shi Feng. He then took an ancient, black Magic Scroll from his bag. "To think I would be forced to waste this…"
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61Although it seemed as though both sides had been fighting for a long time, their exchange had only lasted a moment. The NPC guards were still quite a distance away from them. He still had time to use his precious Tier 3 Magic Scroll, Life Seizure.
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63Life Seizure was a single-target attack Spell that could even severely wound a Tier 3 class. It would be a small matter to instant-kill a Tier 1 player.
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65As Lethal Gale unfurled the Magic Scroll and began to activate it, a violent vortex of Mana appeared above them. Even a fool could tell that this Magic Scroll was extraordinary.
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67Lethal Gale's three remaining companions launched their attacks once more.
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69"Die!"
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71This time, their attacks were more vicious. All three hurled over twenty attacks at Gentle Snow.
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73However, their attacks focused on quantity over quality. After all, even a low damage Skill like Ice Spear could deal frightening amounts of damage to Gentle Snow. In addition, the increased number of attacks would also make it more difficult for Shi Feng to guard Gentle Snow.
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75"Despicable!" the bystanders cursed at Lethal Gale's group as they watched.
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77If this were a fair and proper battle, Lethal Gale's group would be no match for Shi Feng. However, if Shi Feng were forced to remain by Gentle Snow's side, the incoming Tier 3 spell would no doubt kill him.
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79Suddenly, however, Shi Feng appeared beside Lethal Gale, arcs of blue electricity circling his body faintly. Shi Feng then sent a slash at the Berserker, who was invoking the Magic Scroll.
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81What's going on?! Lethal Gale had not predicted that Shi Feng would leave Gentle Snow to the wolves to come for him. However, as he glanced at Gentle Snow, he discovered Shi Feng standing beside the female Berserker…
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83Lethal Gale wasn't the only one seeing this. Every other player on the street stared in wonder as well.
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85"There are two of him?"
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87"How can there be two of him?!"
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89"Is it a Doppelganger Skill?"
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91As everyone tried to figure out what was going on, Lethal Gale's vision started to fade to gray. Before the shocked Berserker realized it, his HP had fallen to zero.
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93Such a fast attack!
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95When Shi Feng had appeared beside him, Lethal Gale saw a blue flash leave the Swordsman's hand just before he activated Whirlwind Slash to fend off the attack. In the next moment, his body stopped responding to his commands.
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97As his vision dimmed into darkness, he noticed the Shi Feng before him dissipate into nothing. It was as if the attack hadn't happened, as if this had all been a bad dream.
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99Meanwhile, before anyone realized it, another Shi Feng had appeared behind Gentle Snow.
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101Even more surprisingly, this new version of Shi Feng blocked all twenty-plus attacks aimed at the Snow Goddess. Moreover, when he executed Sword's Orbit again, it was even more powerful than before. He struck down every Spell and arrow before they had come within ten yards of Gentle Snow…
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103"How did he do that?!"
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105Everyone was shocked. Even the Guild experts from other kingdoms and empires were speechless.
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107Shi Feng was like a ghost, appearing wherever he wanted.
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109In reality, however, Shi Feng had pushed himself to his very limits to execute this phantasmal attack.
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111First, he had used Instant Strike to finish off Lethal Gale. He then activated Silent Steps to appear behind Gentle Snow. He had completed these two moves almost at the same time. Later, he executed Sword's Orbit.
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113Although Shi Feng appeared calm, he had exhausted most of his Concentration. His head was starting to ache.
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115"You guys have had your fun. It's my turn now." Looking at the three ranged members of Lethal Gale's party, Shi Feng raised Killing Ray high before swinging it forward violently.
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117Lightning Edge!
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119Suddenly, streaks of blue lightning arced across the 50 yards ahead of him. Not only did the arcs of lightning devour the players' attacks, but the lightning also devoured the players. All three players transformed into particles of light, leaving behind only three items. Not even their corpses remained…
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121Hellscythe_
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123Chapter 980: Ye Feng's Deterrent Force
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127Every spectator was shocked as they watched Shi Feng instantly kill three Level 39 expert players.
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129"What a powerful AOE Attack Skill!"
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131"Is this Zero Wing's strength?"
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133After seeing this, the Guild experts from other kingdoms and empires began to fear Zero Wing.
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135If Shi Feng decided to ambush their Guilds' elite teams in the field with such a powerful Skill, the consequences would be unimaginable. He was practically a human cannon. Although he didn't wield as many AOE Skills as Elementalists, his versatility and mobility surpassed the latter by leaps and bounds.
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137Currently, due to the emergence of the new class, many Guilds had dispatched their top teams to grind for Merits.
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139As the top combatants of large Guilds, they had their own pride. Due to that, they didn't pay any attention to White River City's ruler, Zero Wing. After all, they were not grinding around White River City. They were simply using the teleportation array within the city.
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141Once they reached the Twin Towers Kingdom, Zero Wing would lose its the home-ground advantage. If Zero Wing wanted any level of authority in the Twin Towers Kingdom, it would have to rely on its teams' strength.
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143However, the strength Shi Feng displayed a moment ago was beyond terrifying. He was fully capable of threatening their progress in the Twin Towers Kingdom. From now on, if they accidentally provoked Zero Wing, they would have to take into account the possibility of Zero Wing's teams annihilating them.
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145Immediately, the various large Guilds' top teams reined in their arrogance and reevaluated their opinion of Zero Wing. They had notified their teams in the Twin Towers Kingdom, warning them to avoid conflict with Zero Wing's teams as much as possible. Although they had their own experts, fighting Zero Wing would gain them nothing.
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147Moreover, Zero Wing had another major advantage over the other large Guilds; the teleportation house was located in White River City. Their foreign Guilds did not have a Residence here. They had to foot the additional fee of teleporting from their respective cities to White River City.
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149Of course, it was a different story for wealthy tyrants like Super Guilds and super-first-rate Guilds.
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151Super Guilds and super-first-rate Guilds had far more powerful backgrounds than first-rate Guilds. It was especially true for their connections. These Guilds could set up a Residence in any city in God's Domain. After which, they could dispatch their Guild members en masse. Unlike first-rate Guilds, these super powers didn't need to struggle to obtain Land
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153This was why the various large Guilds feared Super Guilds and super-first-rate Guilds.
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155Not only could these major powers dispatch apex experts to assassinate their Guilds' upper echelons, but they could also send swarms of elite players to obliterate the Guild members.
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157…
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159After Lethal Gale's party had been annihilated, the NPC guards, who had been rushing to the scene, stopped and resumed their patrols. It was as if the surprise attack had never happened.
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161As for Lethal Gale's party, who had initiated an attack within the city limits, they would not escape the system's punishment just because Shi Feng had killed them. Once they revived in half an hour, the NPCs would arrest them in the Resurrection Temple.
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163After taking care of Lethal Gale's party, Shi Feng collected his spoils of war.
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165Although the weapons and equipment Lethal Gale's party had dropped were useless to him, they could still enrich Zero Wing's Guild Warehouse.
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167After Shi Feng finished with the loot, he caught an advanced horse carriage with Gentle Snow and proceeded towards a high-class restaurant in the Noble's District. From beginning to end, not a single player had dared to step forward to snatch Shi Feng's loot. Only after Shi Feng was truly out of sight did these players launch into heated discussions.
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169…
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171"What?! Zero Wing's Ye Feng wiped out Gale's party?! How is that possible!" Abandoned Wave was dumbfounded as he listened to his subordinate's report. He could not believe his ears. He then asked, "What about Gentle Snow? Did she die?"
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173Lethal Gale's people were one of the top ranking parties among those under his control. Usually, he tasked the party with assassinations and dealing with experts that made themselves a hindrance. Until now, they had never failed a job. They had always triumphed, even against a Void Realm expert.
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175Field battles were different from PvP competitions. There were many factors that could affect a player's combat power, not to mention the combat power of a group. Thus, it had been easier to send Lethal Gale to warn away Gentle Snow's mysterious buyer. If words could not sway the buyer, Lethal Gale's party would convince the buyer to submit by force.
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177However, after giving it some thought, this task had been quite dangerous. If he had help from the NPC guards, it wouldn't be impossible for Ye Feng to annihilate Lethal Gale and his companions.
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179"Gentle Snow did not die. Gale's party couldn't even lay a finger on her before Ye Feng slaughtered them…" the bald, middle-aged man said as he nervously played a recording for Abandoned Wave.
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181The video clip showed the entire process of Shi Feng wiping out Lethal Gale's party.
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183Many curious spectators had recorded the entire battle. This video was already a popular topic on Star-Moon Kingdom's official forums.
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185Not only had this incident boosted the fame of Zero Wing's Ye Feng, but it also made a mockery of the Blackwater Corporation.
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187Abandoned Wave's expression darkened as he watched the video. The dense killing intent he radiated could be felt over 30 yards away.
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189Sensing this killing intent, several strong and talented youths rushed over, asking, "Big Brother Wave, what happened? What has you so riled up?"
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191Although these youths' Levels were not high, they were greatly admired by the Divine Colosseum's regulars.
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193"It's nothing!" Abandoned Wave closed the video, enraged. A cold glint flashed in his eyes as he said, "I've had to make some minor adjustments to my plans. Although Young Master Jing has told me that there is no need to bother with Zero Wing, if I don't teach the Guild a lesson, be it Black Flame or Ye Feng, neither will acknowledge the Blackwater Corporation's power!
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195"I've heard that the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion's Pavilion Master, Nine Dragons Emperor, has quite a grudge against Zero Wing and has been eager to teach Zero Wing a lesson. You, travel to the Black Dragon Empire and tell Qin Muyun this: If Nine Dragons Emperor wants to deal with Zero Wing, I will lend him a hand. Also, dispatch three parties to trail Gentle Snow. If there is an opportunity, kill her."
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197"Understood!"
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199After receiving his instructions, the bald man rushed out of the VIP room.
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201…
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203Inside a high-class restaurant in White River City's Noble's District…
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205Zero Wing's elite members filled the restaurant. Furthermore, several of Zero Wing's core members surveyed the area from the establishment's main hall. The high-class restaurant had become an impenetrable fortress.
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207Meanwhile, Shi Feng and Gentle Snow chatted with each other on the top floor.
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209"The Blackwater Corporation is quite eager to take your life," Shi Feng commented as he gazed out the french windows. From his position, he could see at least eight people stalking the restaurant. While there was a chance that he had earned his own stalkers, it was far easier to believe that these players were hunting Gentle Snow.
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211After all, the Blackwater Corporation had ambushed her once before. Moreover, Gentle Snow was still Weakened. He wouldn't be surprised if they tried another three or four assaults.
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213Chapter 981: Difference Between Guilds
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217"As expected of the Blackwater Corporation. Despite paying so little attention to God's Domain when it launched, it has so many powerful experts," Shi Feng commented.
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219Prompted by Shi Feng's remark, Gentle Snow followed his gaze out the window. What she saw, however, surprised her.
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221White River City was even more prosperous than Star-Moon City. Even in the costly Noble's District, she could see plenty of players going about their business.
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223From her vantage point, she had a clear view of what these players were doing, and very quickly, several players caught her attention. Although these players seemed to be chatting among themselves, they occasionally turned to look at the room she and Shi Feng occupied. These were not low-leveled players, either; the lowest among them was Level 38, while the rest were Level 39. Among these experts, a few neglected to hide their auras. Hence, she could feel just how much of a threat these people posed.
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225If she left the building…
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227Needless to say, she wouldn't leave White River City alive.
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229The Blackwater Corporation had not prepared overmuch for the first ambush. Shi Feng's presence must've also been unexpected. However, the corporation would prepare from here on out.
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231"Relax. As long as you're in here, they can't touch you. If you stay here until you recover from your Weakened state, they will eventually give up and leave," Shi Feng assured Gentle Snow. On his way here, he had purchased the latest information regarding Ouroboros from the Secret Pavilion. Although the purchase had cost him a pretty penny, he had learned both bad and good news.
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233He discovered that the Blackwater Corporation now focused fully on God's Domain. In fact, it had already dealt with the companies that had backed Ouroboros.
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235To put it simply, Blackwater now owned Ouroboros. Although, it had not yet declared so publicly.
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237The good news was that he could finally recruit Gentle Snow.
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239The bad news was that the Blackwater Corporation was not to be trifled with. Among the various international corporations, Blackwater was relatively overbearing. Moreover, the corporation had a powerful affinity for a game like God's Domain.
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241Compared to veteran gamers, fighting experts a much higher starting point when they joined God's Domain. Their lack of familiarity with God's Domain's superhuman combat style was the only thing that held them back. However, once they were comfortable with this combat style, they would quickly become experts in God's Domain with the combat techniques they had learned in the real world.
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243The Blackwater Corporation had a perfected system to nurture fighting experts. Moreover, after many years of development, it had various dojos around the globe. Given enough time, even Super Guilds would be no match for the Blackwater Corporation.
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245Even in the past, shortly after the Mind Space System had launched, the Blackwater Corporation had forced itself into God's Domain.
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247Although Blackwater had started later than everyone else, it was one of the first corporations to upgrade its own established Guild into a Super Guild.
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249In contrast, corporations like Open Source could only invest in Super Guilds and super-first-rate Guilds to establish themselves in God's Domain. It was simply too difficult to nurture their own expert players, much less apex experts. By the time they did so, their competition would've left them in the dust.
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251When Blackwater had begun to focus on developing in God's Domain, the game had been operating for over a year. After all, nobody would have imagined that the game would be more popular than fighting competitions, so much so that it had ushered in a new era. In reality, God's Domain had not only impacted the fighting industry. The various other industries had been affected as well. By then, God's Domain had become irreplaceable in people's lives. It was similar to humanity's introduction to the internet several hundred years ago. After learning about the benefits of God's Domain, people couldn't live without it.
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253Meanwhile, among the affected industries, the fighting industry had suffered the most.
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255When the Blackwater Corporation had officially shifted its focus to God's Domain, it had been significantly weakened. It wasn't even half as powerful as it has been during its peak. Even so, it lorded over God's Domain a decade later.
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257Currently, Blackwater was still at its peak, yet it had already shifted its gaze to God's Domain. With its frightening financial strength and many experts, the corporation was akin to a natural disaster for Star-Moon Kingdom's Zero Wing. If Zero Wing failed to cope with this disaster properly, it would be nothing more than a stepping stone for the Blackwater Corporation.
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259"I roughly understand Ouroboros's current situation. May I ask what you have planned? Is there anything I can with?" Shi Feng asked quietly as he turned to the somewhat dispirited Gentle Snow.
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261"Blackwater has already obtained the majority of Ouroboros's shares. Even my White Clan Group cannot change that fact. The only thing I can do now is take as many people with me as I leave Ouroboros and start all over again elsewhere. Would Zero Wing be interested in purchasing any other materials? I can sell them to you at a 40% discount," Gentle Snow offered as she smiled bitterly. "I also have a few plots of Land in Star-Moon Kingdom that I want to sell; although I am not sure if Zero Wing can stomach so much at once."
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263She still intended to continue her development in another city in Star-Moon Kingdom. After all, she understood Star-Moon Kingdom's situation.
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265However, after witnessing the Blackwater Corporation's strength, once it secured Ouroboros, she would seal her fate if she remained in this kingdom. Her only choice was to restart somewhere far from here. As for the Shops and Lands she owned in Star-Moon Kingdom, there was no point in keeping them. The Blackwater Corporation would see to it that these Lands became worthless. Hence, she might as well sell them to fund her relocation.
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267"Which Lands you are trying to sell?" Shi Feng could not help but ask.
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269If they were high-potential Lands of a major city, they would become more valuable by the day. He would definitely profit if he purchased them.
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271"Most of the Commercial Lands I possess are in Star-Moon Kingdom's top ten major cities. I have a total of eleven plots. I also have three plots in the Black Dragon Empire and two in the Purple Thorns Kingdom," Gentle Snow said as she handed Shi Feng a list. "Here is a list of the Lands' cities and locations as well as my quoted prices."
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273After Shi Feng took a look through the list, he couldn't help but sigh inwardly.
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275Zero Wing was no match for a first-rate Guild. If these were only the Lands under Gentle Snow's name, one could just imagine how many Lands Ouroboros controlled. On the other hand, despite having so much money right now, Zero Wing struggled to purchase any Lands in major cities. He was even forced to using the Holy City slots to purchase Lands from Super Guilds.
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277Based on the current market price, the cheapest Land on the Snow Goddess's list was worth around 3,000 Gold, while the most expensive were worth over 8,000. These Lands had long since doubled their original selling prices.
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279Based on Gentle Snow's quoted prices, he would need around 80,000 Gold to purchase all 16 plots. Even Zero Wing could not fork over so much money at a moment's notice. Moreover, the prices were very reasonable. If anyone else were selling these Lands, he might have to pay an additional 20,000 to 30,000 Gold. Even then, he would have to fight many others to purchase them.
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281Chapter 982: The Tip of the Iceberg
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285Even to Super Guilds, 80,000 Gold was a considerable amount of money. They couldn't collect so much money within a short period, much less the smaller Guilds.
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287Gentle Snow had little hope that anyone could afford to purchase all of her Lands.
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289She would just sell as many plots as she could. Once she collected enough Coins, she could proceed with the next part of her plan more smoothly.
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291While Shi Feng = carefully inspected the Commercial Lands, Gentle Snow received a call from Zhao Yueru.
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293"Snow, the Guild has called an emergency Elder Meeting and has officially announced that Abandoned Wave will be replacing you as the Guild Leader. Aside from the raw materials you have, Abandoned Wave has frozen the Guild's assets. Furthermore, many of the God Slaying Army's members have reported ambushes in the fields and outside of Dungeons. They've suffered grievous damages," Zhao Yueru reported, shaking with rage.
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295The Blackwater Corporation was too vicious.
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297The God Slaying Army was their asset as they left Ouroboros. The Guild had spent many years nurturing these experts. If these experts came them and they had enough funding, the new Ouroboros could quickly establish a firm foothold in another kingdom.
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299Initially, hiding the locations of the Army's members had not been an issue. After all, every member was an expert. With their equipment, killing these players would not be easy.
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301Now, however, the Blackwater Corporation had somehow recruited an army of its own experts and slaughtered the God Slaying Army scattered throughout Star-Moon Kingdom. The loss of a single level might have been fine, but the lost weapons and equipment was horrendous.
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303When Blackwater's experts killed them, the legion members would drop at least two pieces of equipment; some would even drop three items.
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305The God Slaying Army had been equipped with the best items available in Ouroboros. If several hundred members lost an item each, it would severely wound the army, much less if they lost two or three items. They would need a lot of time to recover from the loss.
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307Normally, the God Slaying Army could simply replenish their equipment from the Guild's Warehouse. However, the Blackwater Corporation had already limited their authority. Now, they could not even take a piece of Common Equipment from the Warehouse.
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309With the God Slaying Army suffering such a blow, rising in another kingdom in a short time would be impossible.
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311"I understand. For now, have the army's members be extra careful." Gentle Snow's frown deepened after receiving a more detailed report.
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313Even Ouroboros's old rival, the Star Alliance, couldn't kill so many of the God Slaying Army's members so quickly.
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315"Guild Leader Snow, you don't look too well. Has something happened?" Shi Feng asked curiously when he noticed Gentle Snow's troubled expression.
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317"I've just received news that Blackwater has already begun to exact its revenge. The God Slaying Army that I command has suffered over 700 deaths. Although reports say that they've been ambushed by groups of cloaked players, I'm sure that these players are experts from Blackwater," Gentle Snow helplessly explained, not bothering to hide this fact from Shi Feng. Moreover, it was impossible to keep a tight lid on such a major incident. It was only a matter of time before the truth revealed itself.
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319"It seems that your victory over Lethal Gale has made the Blackwater Corporation anxious. Otherwise, they'd have no reason to make such an excessive move." The news surprised Shi Feng.
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321No matter what was said or done, the Blackwater Corporation had already purchased Ouroboros. One could even go so far as to say that Ouroboros was the Blackwater Corporation.
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323If news spread of mysterious players slaughtering Ouroboros's strongest legion on its own turf, it would damage the Guild's reputation.
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325"Since Blackwater has already gone to such lengths, I'm betting that even if you leave Star-Moon Kingdom, they will find some way to crush you," Shi Feng said seriously. "How about this? Invest in Zero Wing and become one of its shareholders. With Zero Wing's prestige in Star-Moon Kingdom, the fledgling Blackwater Corporation should hesitate before declaring all-out war."
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327"This…" Gentle Snow was taken aback upon hearing Shi Feng's proposal.
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329The symbol of Ouroboros, which the White Clan Group had created, was incredibly important to her. If possible, she wanted to establish a new Ouroboros. However, if she joined Zero Wing with Ouroboros's top players, the Blackwater Corporation would shift its focus to Zero Wing.
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331"If you're worried about the percentage of shares that you'd control or how your subordinates would be treated, relax. I can give you 15% of Zero Wing's shares. I'll also give you 50 core member slots and the power to form the Ouroboros Legion, which will be under your full control. What do you think?" Shi Feng suggested.
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333"Are you not afraid of the backlash from Blackwater?" Gentle Snow asked Shi Feng seriously. "With Zero Wing's strength and potential, don't you think that you'd be suffering a loss by offering me 15% of the Guild's shares for the little manpower and resources in my possession?"
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335Zero Wing was no longer the upstart Guild it had been.
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337Not only did Zero Wing control Stone Forest Town, but it also owned Star-Moon Kingdom's number one trading firm. Zero Wing was the publicly-acknowledged number one Guild in Star-Moon Kingdom. Even first-rate Guilds were no match for it. There were also many companies and corporations chomping at the bit to invest in Zero Wing. Some major corporations were offering enough to tempt Super Guilds for as little as 50% of Zero Wing's shares. Unfortunately, Zero Wing had declined every offer, yet Shi Feng had offered 15% of the Guild's shares to recruit her and her people. No one would believe this if she told them.
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339In response to Gentle Snow's query, Shi Feng shook his head and confidently stated, "No. You are worth it."
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341Shi Feng's answer confused Gentle Snow. Even she didn't believe that she was worth this price, yet Shi Feng sounded strangely confident. Moreover, the look in Shi Feng's eyes told her that he was not lying.
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343Gentle Snow also felt a little moved.
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345After so many years in Ouroboros, her trust had long since ceased to exist, yet she trusted Shi Feng, despite so few meetings with him. Yet, despite only coming into contact with Shi Feng several times before, the man had somehow managed to fill her with trust.
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347She didn't know what to say.
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349If Shi Feng were a fool, Zero Wing wouldn't have had so much success.
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351An indistinct feeling made Gentle Snow even more curious about the Guild known as Zero Wing.
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353After taking a deep breath, Gentle Snow looked at Shi Feng and replied, "Alright, then. I agree to your conditions. However, you have to promise me one thing."
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355Chapter 983: Gentle Snow's Condition
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359"Guild Leader Snow, feel free to state any concerns," Shi Feng said, chuckling.
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361Many of Ouroboros's elite and expert players followed Gentle Snow. If he recruited all of them, it would raise Zero Wing's overall strength by a large margin.
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363Although Zero Wing's member count still wouldn't compare to a first-rate Guild's, it would have far more elites than its competition.
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365There was also Gentle Snow's potential to consider.
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367If he could give Gentle Snow access to the Secret Pavilion's simulation training system, with her talent and his other training resources, it wouldn't be long before she became a true apex expert. It wouldn't be long before she surpassed him, either.
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369What Guild wouldn't want such an expert?
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371Moreover, Gentle Snow was different from Fire Dance and Violet Cloud, who lacked management experience.
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373Regarding management capabilities, only Aqua Rose might be a match for Gentle Snow. Before joining Zero Wing, Aqua Rose had only managed her own subordinates in Twilight Echo. Gentle Snow, on the other hand, had managed Ouroboros. Moreover, her previous Guild had continuously improved. The Guild had even shown signs of surpassing the Star Alliance.
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375Even if Gentle Snow listed three or four conditions, Shi Feng would likely agree.
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377Only Shi Feng knew exactly how valuable an expert capable of becoming a Tier 6 God-ranked player was to a Guild.
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379"After so many years of development, Ouroboros has formed its own perfect expert training system. This was the reason that Ouroboros had ranked near the top among first-rate Guilds. Unlike other Guilds, we could produce our own experts without recruiting or poaching players.
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381"However, the perfected expert training system had cost my White Clan Group too much. Although I can bring the God Slaying Army with me, I can't take the training center. The White Clan Group only owns 40% of the training center's shares, while the other companies own the remaining 60%.
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383"I want Zero Wing to purchase the training center."
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385Gentle Snow's condition stunned Shi Feng for a moment.
386
387For any Guild in God's Domain, constructing their own training center was of the utmost importance. This was also why second-rate Guilds couldn't compete with first-rate Guilds.
388
389The initial cost of constructing an expert training center was already more than what the companies supporting second-rate Guilds could handle. Moreover, even if a second-rate Guild had a training center and established a perfect training system, the upkeep would be astronomically expensive.
390
391Unless a Guild could earn enough to maintain this training system, no Guild or company would be crazy enough to invest in something that would hemorrhage money.
392
393Shi Feng had been contemplating his own training center as well. The Big Dipper Training Center was simply not enough to meet his requirements. The training center did not even have a simple simulation training system. However, as constructing a training center was immensely expensive, he had to tackle this problem gradually.
394
395He had never imagined that Gentle Snow would ask him to purchase Ouroboros's training center.
396
397He would have been lying if he has said he wasn't pleased.
398
399With Ouroboros's training center, Zero Wing could save several years of effort. Unfortunately, there was one big problem.
400
401He didn't have enough money…
402
403Shi Feng had served as the Guild Leader of a second-rate Guild in the past. He had been personally involved in establishing and constructing Shadow's training center. It had happened shortly after Shadow had officially become a second-rate Guild. Hence, he knew just how much money a training center's construction required. If not for several major companies in Jin Hai City working together, Shadow's training center would never have come into fruition.
404
405The cost of the site and machinery was one thing. However, the various simulation facilities and the required energy to maintain them were a different story. Take the fruit of the Secret Pavilion's research, their simulation training system, for example. Only energy of the highest grade could power this kind of system. Even an inferior simulation system's daily maintenance cost was enough to quickly bankrupt multiple large companies.
406
407With Zero Wing's current financial strength, affording its maintenance was impossible, not to mention purchasing it…
408
409"Guild Leader Snow, you must be joking. Zero Wing can't even afford to operate a training center, not to mention purchasing a perfected one. Even if we could afford it, I doubt that the other companies would willingly sell it. After all, that is Ouroboros's foundation. As long as the training center exists, the Guild can produce more experts," Shi Feng said, smiling bitterly.
410
411Zero Wing had started with nothing. It didn't have the support of any companies. The Zero Wing Workshop in the real world relied on the Guild's daily income. Moreover, Shi Feng also did not dare to convert in-game resources into Credits casually. More major companies were joining God's Domain by the day, and the competition was becoming more intense. The resources in God's Domain were also becoming more valuable.
412
413Converting Coins into Credits would be a devastatingly foolish move.
414
415"I understand that I am being somewhat unreasonable, but now is the best opportunity to buy it." Gentle Snow was also aware of how expensive it was to purchase a training center. "Although Blackwater has purchased Ouroboros, Ouroboros's training center is nothing to the corporation. Meanwhile, the training center's daily operation is a huge burden to those companies. They will try to get rid of it as quickly as possible. If we don't buy it now, another corporation, that wants to nurture its own experts, will.
416
417"If Zero Wing is willing to buy it, I can try to lower the price as much as possible."
418
419"I understand. Please wait a moment. I have to contact the Guild Leader about this first," Shi Feng said, creating an excuse to leave the room.
420
421It would be much more convenient to purchase a training center than establishing his own.
422
423If he purchased it now, he could save himself a lot of trouble in the future. Zero Wing would not have to risk stagnation as Shadow had in the past due to a lack of experts. With the training center, he could nurture a large number of experts rapidly, sending them out afterward to capture and defend towns. He could then use the money and resources these towns generated to sustain the training center.
424
425However, Zero Wing couldn't gather so much money in such a short timespan.
426
427"Forget it. Let's give it a try." After Shi Feng left the room, he contacted Aqua Rose.
428
429Chapter 984: Qualifications for Cooperation
430
431
432
433Although Aqua Rose was Zero Wing's Vice Guild Leader, her family owned its own large business.
434
435Twilight Echo was a first-rate Guild with an even longer history than Ouroboros. Aqua Rose's family was one of Twilight Echo's major shareholders.
436
437In the past, Shi Feng had learned that Aqua Rose's family owned the Sun and Moon Group.
438
439In ten years' time, the Sun and Moon Group would join the Fortune 500 list. Of course, Aqua Rose had been the main contributor to the company's success.
440
441The Sun and Moon Group and the Open Source Corporation were both involved in the energy industry.
442
443Hence, Aqua Rose's family had been afraid of the Open Source Corporation when they had threatened the family to persuade Aqua Rose. Open Source was one of the industry's giants. On the other hand, Sun and Moon struggled within the middle ranks. If the Open Source Corporation wanted to, it could easily squash the Sun and Moon Group.
444
445However, although the Sun and Moon Group only ranked in the mid-range in the energy industry, it wielded an extraordinary amount of funds. After all, the most profitable resource in the world was energy as it was used in nearly every aspect of life.
446
447It was also precisely this reason that Twilight Echo's members had treated Aqua Rose like a treasure, even making her the Guild's Honorary Elder. Not only was the Sun and Moon Group one of Twilight Echo's major shareholders, but it was also the Guild's biggest shareholder. Without the company's supply of energy, the other shareholders would choke on the daily cost of maintaining the Guild's training center.
448
449"Guild Leader, has something happened?" Aqua Rose asked.
450
451Aqua Rose was still dealing with the list of members they intended to send to other countries as well as various other tasks. She was so busy that her brain was about to short-circuit. Her helpers also rushed about the office, contacting Guild members and dealing with the letters of intent from Guild members who were willing to move to the Branch Guild.
452
453Now that Zero Wing planned to expand to other countries, many players wanted to apply to the Branch Guilds.
454
455Although the Branch Guilds were as safe as the headquarters in White River City, where they didn't have to worry about other Guilds provoking Zero Wing, they would have more opportunities for promotion in the Branch Guilds.
456
457In White River City, there were only so many slots available for the Guild's main force. Becoming a reserve member was nearly impossible, not to mention becoming an official member of the main force. However, once the Branch Guilds were established, the Guild would establish new main forces, and the main force members enjoyed far more benefits than elite members.
458
459Aside from having priority over equipment, just the amount of Magic Crystals each main force member received was enough to make a player drool. Main force members also had the opportunity to obtain the rumored Hundred Berry Wine.
460
461According to rumors, the Hundred Berry Wine was even more effective than the Divine Colosseum's Icefire Spirit. It could help players improve their Skill Completion Rates. Currently, not one bottle was available on the market. No one knew how to obtain their own.
462
463Only official members of Zero Wing's main force qualified to compete for the Hundred Berry Wine.
464
465Since members of the Branch Guilds' main forces would receive similar benefits, why wouldn't Zero Wing's elite members be tempted? When Aqua Rose had announced the news, many elite members frantically applied to join the Branch Guilds.
466
467Although Aqua Rose looked battered, inwardly, she was elated. She dreamed of helping Zero Wing grow stronger. Because of Zero Wing's extraordinary performance, her family now saw her in a different light. In fact, they even canceled her engagement to Brilliant Wargod.
468
469As Zero Wing's performance reached new heights, her status in her household rose. Many large companies had secretly sent upper echelons to ask her family members to contact her, desperately wanting to invest in Zero Wing and offering many impressive perks. As a result, every time she visited home, her parents instantly pushed for her to meet with the companies' representatives. She was even busier than the Star and Moon Group's CEO…
470
471"It's nothing major. Didn't you say that your family has wanted to invest in Zero Wing? And that other companies frequently pester you to negotiation our cooperation?" Shi Feng asked.
472
473"Mhm. More representatives have been showing up lately as well. My family is also constantly on my case. I swear they are even more diligent now than when I had been forced into the engagement with Brilliant Wargod. They almost annoy me to death these days. Do you have a plan to deal with them, Guild Leader?" Aqua Rose asked. Just discussing this topic made her head ache.
474
475She knew where Shi Feng stood on the matter. Thus, she always rejected the offers. To avoid these people, she had no choice but to hide in her virtual gaming cabin. Only in God's Domain would her family leave her alone…
476
477"I have a method. It also isn't a solution to always have uncle and aunty pressing you for an answer. I can offer them an opportunity to work together," Shi Feng said, chuckling. "As for whether or not they want to cooperate with us, that will be up to them."
478
479"Really?" Aqua Rose froze, surprised by Shi Feng's declaration. She couldn't believe this was true.
480
481Zero Wing was very famous in God's Domain. This was because it had rejected countless investment offers. Other Guilds dreamed of having their own investors, yet Zero Wing turned them away. Zero Wing was already known as one of the most difficult Guilds to work with.
482
483"Yes, I intend to rent some plots of Land, so I would like you to find a few partners. However, each company must first invest one billion Credits. I will choose a total of ten partners." Gentle Snow had already given Shi Feng a rough estimate of the cost. If he wanted to takeover Ouroboros's training center, he needed at least seven or eight billion Credits. Moreover, this was only the initial estimate. After all, Ouroboros's training center was massive. It even had its own independent research team. The training center was also located in a top-tier city. Considering, Gentle Snow's price was exceedingly low.
484
485"Guild Leader, are you talking about Stone Forest Town's Lands?" Aqua Rose was so shocked that she had to ask for confirmation.
486
487Shi Feng nodded, replying seriously, "That's right."
488
489"Guild Leader, although the player traffic in Stone Forest Town is high, as expensive as the town's Lands are, they will never be worth as much as the golden Lands in kingdoms and imperial capitals. Moreover, even those golden Lands aren't worth that much money. Only a sucker would accept your offer. No one will agree to that," Aqua Rose said helplessly.
490
491For some reason, Aqua Rose constantly had the feeling that Shi Feng lived in a different world. She was clearly the rich heiress here, yet when Shi Feng talked about one billion Credits, it sounded as if he were talking about chump change…
492
493That was one billion Credits they were talking about!
494
495While the Sun and Moon Group could collect that much money, the other companies would likely hesitate.
496
497"What if I have this item?"
498
499Shi Feng laughed as he retrieved an old parchment from his bag. This parchment was none other than the Star-Moon Kingdom City Building Order. With this, he could claim one unassigned location within Star-Moon Kingdom and construct a city.
500
501Chapter 985: Shocking Star-Moon Kingdom
502
503
504
505"This is…"
506
507Aqua Rose was astonished when she took a closer look at the old parchment's information on the screen.
508
509A City Building Order!
510
511This item was far more valuable than any captured town.
512
513Yet, while Super Guilds were investing time and effort into capturing towns, Shi Feng had procured a City Building Order…
514
515Aqua Rose rubbed her eyes. She was sure that they were playing tricks on her.
516
517What was a Star-Moon Kingdom City Building Order?
518
519That was proof that one had the rights to construct a player city in Star-Moon Kingdom. Currently, player towns in God's Domain generally accommodated thirty to fifty thousand people. However, none of the Guilds that had captured various towns allowed had built houses in their towns; they had all built hotels. This way, the towns would accommodate more mobile players, which would, in turn, generate more income. Aside from Guild members, players had practically no options to become permanent residents.
520
521Even so, a player town could only handle a limited amount of traffic.
522
523Take Stone Forest Town for example.
524
525Stone Forest Town was very close to the Stoneclaw Mountains. Because most of God's Domain's players had already reached Level 30, the town's traffic grew with each passing day, giving it an even livelier atmosphere than White River City. In the end, Zero Wing had no choice but to limit the amount of time each player could reside in Stone Forest Town's hotels.
526
527This was also why many companies desperately wanted to work with Zero Wing.
528
529However, a town had its limits. Not only was the area around Stone Forest Town small, but the local environment also posed a huge problem. It was not suitable for players seeking entertainment, which greatly limited the benefits a real-world company could reap from setting up a virtual Shop.
530
531A city, on the other hand, was many times larger than a town. Generally, a town could house over 200,000 resident players, not including mobile players. If they chose an appropriate location, they could easily attract many entertainment-seekers, who disliked adventuring and fighting, to live in the city.
532
533"You've seen the City Building Order for yourself. Companies that cooperate with Zero Wing will be given priority when purchasing a large plot of Land in the city. As for the one billion Credits, that is only a deposit. However, before you let them in on this secret, find companies that truly intend to cooperate. Moreover, they must sign a confidentiality agreement. I don't want news of this to leak, attracting everyone's attention," Shi Feng explained.
534
535In truth, he did not want to sell any of the city's Lands because of how much more valuable they would become in the future. If he nurtured his city to have a population in the millions, he could drown Zero Wing in money each day with the profits from renting the city's Lands.
536
537Unfortunately, he had no avenues to earn so much money in such a short time.
538
539"I understand. I will see to the necessary arrangements right away." Aqua Rose nodded excitedly.
540
541Currently, the value of Stone Forest Town's Lands could rival those with high potential in major cities. However, if they chose a strategic location to set up their city, the city's Lands would easily surpass Stone Forest Town's by several, or even over ten times. If she advertised this news, many corporations would be eager to work with them.
542
543"How many days do you need to get this done?" Shi Feng asked. "I'm in somewhat of a hurry for the money right now."
544
545"Roughly three to five days. After all, most major companies would be hard-pressed to collect so much money on such short notice." After giving it some thought, Aqua Rose suggested, "If you are in a rush for money, I can have my family pay for you first, or offer them a few more plots of Land in the new city. I believe they will be more than willing."
546
547Although the new city had yet to be built, if a company could enter the city and construct its own virtual Shop immediately, it would massively benefit the company's development in God's Domain.
548
549After all, once the new city was complete, plenty of entertainment-seekers were bound to visit the city. If a company could leave a deep impression on these players, more people would recognize them as they started Shops in other cities. This would create brand awareness.
550
551"Alright. I await your good news," Shi Feng said. As long as he gathered the necessary ten billion Credits, he was satisfied.
552
553Following which, Aqua Rose logged out of the game and hastened to make the necessary arrangements. As for Shi Feng, he went back into the room.
554
555"Guild Leader Snow, Zero Wing agrees to your conditions. However, we'll need some time to collect the required Credits. It is unlikely that we can do so in one or two days," Shi Feng explained.
556
557"That won't be a problem. In any case, the training center won't sell quickly. That will also give me more time to drive down the price," Gentle Snow said, smiling.
558
559Initially, she had expected Zero Wing to reject her condition. Either that, or the Guild would need a very long time to gather the required funds. She hadn't expected the Guild to raise the money so quickly.
560
561As she experienced more, she realized how little she truly knew about the Guild.
562
563Following which, Shi Feng and Gentle Snow discussed the details of their contract.
564
565First, Gentle Snow would join Zero Wing with the elites and experts under her command. At the same time, Gentle Snow would transfer all Lands in her control to Zero Wing. In return, Gentle Snow would receive 15% of Zero Wing's shares and become one of Zero Wing's Vice Guild Leaders. Simultaneously, she would serve as the captain of the Ouroboros Legion and manage all of the legion's affairs.
566
567After both parties signed the contract, Gentle Snow logged out of the game and to initiate her plan to purchase Ouroboros. Shi Feng, on the other hand, headed to White River City's City Hall and took ownership of the 16 plots of Land Gentle Snow had owned.
568
569Afterward, he simply needed to construct the Candlelight Trading Firm on these 16 Commercial Lands.
570
571With the additional coverage, the Candlelight Trading Firm's income would increase significantly.
572
573Gentle Snow's insight is impressive. Of the three Lands in the Black Dragon Empire, one is in Emerald City. I won't have to hunt for an Emerald source. After Shi Feng visited the 11 plots of Land in Star-Moon Kingdom, he could not stifle his grin as he looked at the Deeds for the three Lands in the Black Dragon Empire.
574
575Emerald City was one of the empire's top ten major cities. It was in no way less prosperous than White River City. Players could find many ores around Emerald City, and Emeralds were the most common, hence the name "Emerald City.".
576
577Emeralds were generally used as raw materials to produce ornaments as the ore possessed relatively good Mana-storing capabilities. It was rarely ever used to produce other items.
578
579However, aside from requiring Mana Stones, Titan City's Magic Light Set Equipment needed plenty of Emeralds.
580
581With a Shop in Emerald City, he could purchase Emeralds long-term. His Guild members wouldn't need to travel back and forth from the city constantly.
582
583Following which, Shi Feng traveled to the Black Dragon Empire via Star-Moon City's Teleportation Hall.
584
585Shortly after Shi Feng left, a shock tore through Star-Moon Kingdom's various Guilds.
586
587…
588
589"What did you say?! Zero Wing now owns Gentle Snow's Lands?! How can this be?!" Abandoned Wave was flabbergasted when he received the news.
590
591Hellscythe_
592
593Chapter 986: War of First-rate Guilds
594
595
596
597"Boss Wave, there's no mistaking it. If you don't believe me, take a look at these pictures. Our Shops in these locations are now owned by the Candlelight Trading Firm," the bald, middle-aged man reported as he displayed the pictures his subordinates had taken.
598
599Abandoned Wave's expression darkened as he looked through the images.
600
601"Gentle Snow!" Abandoned Wave slammed his palm on the wooden table, the impact shook the wine glass and bottle of Witch's Tear, nearly sending them to the ground.
602
603He had never imagined that, as soon as he forced Gentle Snow out of her position and killed her subordinates, the woman would counter with such a move. He hadn't even had a moment to enjoy his victory.
604
605In reality, Abandoned Wave wasn't the only person that Gentle Snow's actions had infuriated. The upper echelons from Star-Moon Kingdom's various large Guilds wore twisted expressions when they heard the news.
606
607"What, exactly, is Gentle Snow trying to do?!"
608
609"Has she lost her mind?! She actually sold so many high-potential Lands to Zero Wing!"
610
611The various Guilds loathed Gentle Snow's latest decision. They would rather pay double the price to purchase Gentle Snow's Lands and let them rot in their hands than let them fall into the Candlelight Trading Firm's hands.
612
613These Lands had originally housed Ouroboros's New Moon Trading Firm. Now, however, they housed the Candlelight Trading Firm. Although the Storefronts were the cheapest variations, curious players had already crowded the Shops' entrances, interested in the sudden change and purchasing items.
614
615It was very easy to transfer a Shop's ownership to another player in God's Domain. One simply needed to visit a City Hall and follow the necessary procedures. If one didn't intend to modify the shop, only changing the name, they could immediately have NPCs do so free of charge.
616
617The Candlelight Trading Firm had always been known for its Light Stones and Armor Kits.
618
619The Intermediate Armor Kits, in particular, usually sold out the instant they were restocked. If not for its low production volume, the Candlelight Trading Firm would've long since dominated Star-Moon Kingdom's market. Even so, Candlelight had still become Star-Moon Kingdom's number one trading firm.
620
621Moreover, due to the Candlelight Trading Firm's lack of background, it had only purchased a limited number of high-potential Lands, despite all of its efforts. As for major cities' golden Lands, first, the trading firm could not afford them. After all, one golden Land was worth around three or four high-potential Lands in the same city. Unless Zero Wing intended to set up a particular city as its main headquarters or went on a spending spree, it would not purchase a city's golden Lands. Second, Zero Wing's members did not have the required Reputation to purchase golden Lands in other cities. Therefore, the Candlelight Trading Firm's development in Star-Moon Kingdom was limited.
622
623On the other hand, to avoid competition with the Candlelight Trading Firm, Gentle Snow's high-potential Lands had been purchased in cities that lacked Candlelight's presence or were located far from Candlelight's Shops.
624
625By selling these Lands to Zero Wing, Gentle Snow had just compensated for the Candlelight Trading Firm's shortcomings. Moreover, the Candlelight Trading Firm had recently recruited a large number of Lifestyle players. Once the trading firm nurtured these Lifestyle players, it would be a disaster for their Guilds, who were already limited to a small corner of the market. However, they could not do anything to oppress the Candlelight Trading Firm in Star-Moon Kingdom…
626
627…
628
629While Star-Moon Kingdoms' various large Guilds tried to think of a solution to cope with the Candlelight Trading Firm's new strength, Shi Feng had teleported to Emerald City from the Black Dragon Empire's imperial capital, Black Dragon City.
630
631As soon as Shi Feng exited the Teleportation Hall, he found just as many players in Emerald City as there were in White River City. Only the players' Levels and equipment was slightly inferior to those in his home city.
632
633Currently, due to the teleportation house, one could easily find Level 37 or Level 38 players roaming about White River City's streets. Prior to that, Level 39 experts were as rare as a phoenix feather.
634
635Emerald City, however, was different. Shi Feng rarely saw Level 36 players roaming the streets, much less those who had reached Level 37 or higher.
636
637However, unlike kingdoms, second- or first-tier cities with populations ranging in the tens of millions were designated to God's Domain's empires. It was easy to find many Gaming Workshops and Guilds based in these cities. With Emerald City being one of the top ten cities of the Black Dragon Empire, Shi Feng saw members from no less than ten different Guilds going about their business.
638
639Such a sight was rare in Star-Moon Kingdom. Generally, only three or four large Guilds contested over its major cities. Emerald City, on the other hand, had more than ten, and even the weakest among them were second-rate Guilds. As for first-rate Guilds, Shi Feng counted three from where he stood. Emerald City already had as many first-rate Guilds as Star-Moon Kingdom.
640
641I recall that the Undefeated Dynasty had been Emerald City's ruling Guild in the past. Among the many first-rate Guilds, Undefeated Dynasty was relatively tolerant. I shouldn't need to worry about any trouble if I set a Shop up here. Shi Feng secretly assessed the city's situation as he rode an advanced horse carriage.
642
643Based on what he could see, a large number of the Guild players roaming the streets belonged to Fantasy Shrine and Undefeated Dynasty. The other first-rate Guild was World Dominators, which Shi Feng was familiar with.
644
645Ever since Zero Wing had become White River City's overlord, World Dominators had withdrawn from Star-Moon Kingdom, shifting its focus to the Black Dragon Empire and other kingdoms.
646
647Mountain ranges surrounded Emerald City, and it produced rare ores and Emeralds. It was considered a strategic city in the Black Dragon Empire. There were only so many Guilds in the city right now because the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion paid little attention to them.
648
649After Shi Feng alighted from the horse carriage, he saw over a dozen independent players leaving the New Moon Trading Firm. These players had very high levels, with the lowest among them being Level 36 and the rest being Level 37. In a large Guild, they would be elite members. As for their combat standards, at this stage of the game, it was very difficult for independent players who hadn't reached the Trial Tower's fifth floor to reach Level 37.
650
651Moreover, these players were well-equipped. Even the most inferior piece of equipment they wore was a Level 35 Secret-Silver rank. In the eyes of ordinary players, they would definitely be considered experts.
652
653"Damn it, to think that Intermediate Regeneration Potions and Intermediate Mana Recovery Potions would sell out so quickly. If I had known that something like this would happen, I would've stockpiled. Now, I won't be able to earn a little bounty reward no matter how much I try."
654
655"There's nothing we can do. Who would've expected Fantasy Shrine and Undefeated Dynasty to start a war against each other in Emerald City? They are even placing bounties on each other's members."
656
657"Really, though, what is up with these Guilds? Why did they suddenly declare war on each other? Haven't they tolerated each other pretty well until now?"
658
659"Based on some insider information I obtained, it seems that the two Guilds have discovered a town above a Mithril vein. If the town is captured, players can mine the vein freely."
660
661"A Mithril vein?! Won't they be rich if they capture the town?!"
662
663"I know, right? However, the NPCs guarding that town are extraordinary. Capturing the town will be very difficult. If one Guild ambushes the other, the latter's efforts will go to waste. That's why both sides are trying to chase each other out of Emerald City."
664
665"Large Guild members sure have it easy. While independent players like us are exhausting ourselves just to find ordinary ores, they get to mine Mithril Ore in the safety of a town!"
666
667As these players spoke of the Mithril vein, they nearly drooled.
668
669Although Mithril Ore was not particularly valuable, it was frequently used to forge weapons and equipment. Generally, selling the Mithril ore one had was very easy. If they could harvest a steady supply of the ore, they could earn more money than they could imagine.
670
671"A Mithril vein?" Shi Feng's lips curled into a smile as he watched the departing independent players.
672
673Chapter 987: Branch Residence
674
675
676
677After the dozen or so independent players left the New Moon Trading Firm, Shi Feng entered the Shop.
678
679Mithril veins were one of the more common mineral veins in God's Domain.
680
681Large Guilds also fought over them fiercely.
682
683As the producer of ores and Emeralds in the Black Dragon Empire, there was more than one mineral vein in Emerald City's vicinity. This was also why Undefeated Dynasty, Emerald City's ruler in the past, had amassed a fortune.
684
685Meanwhile, the only Mithril vein Emerald City's players knew of was beneath White Bone Town.
686
687White Bone Town had been relatively famous in the past because the mineral vein beneath it was a rich vein, and players could reach it easily to mine Mithril Ore. Although one could not make as much money as they could from the Manatite vein under Raven's control, if developed, the profits would still be considerably shocking.
688
689However, current players were not yet strong enough to capture White Bone Town.
690
691The NPCs guarding White Bone Town were not humans, but Undead. Their levels were all above 50. Moreover, any player that entered the mine would be cursed, causing them to lose 10% of their HP every three seconds. The curse also lasted for an hour…
692
693In addition, several Level 70 Grand Lords lurked within the mine's depths. With players' current strength, even an army of several hundred thousand elites would not be enough to defeat these monsters.
694
695However, this reminded Shi Feng of something.
696
697The Basic Holy Spirit Potion!
698
699This item would give players temporary immunity to curses. However, as the potion was only Basic rank, its effects were limited. Fortunately, the potion could offer immunity to White Bone Town's curse.
700
701Due to the richness of White Bone Town's Mithril vein, many players would take the risk to mine there. The money these players earned from a single day of mining the Mithril ore and its byproducts was even more than those who grinded monsters in the fields or raided Team Dungeons.
702
703Because of that, the Basic Holy Spirit Potion had been extremely popular in Emerald City in the past.
704
705The potion had not been particularly expensive. Initially, each bottle only sold for 2 Silver. Even ordinary players could afford that. The potions' effects only lasted for half an hour; in that time, one could easily earn more than 2 Silver while mining underneath the town.
706
707Although White Bone Town's monsters were very high-leveled, the mine's entrance was located in the town's outskirts. Not many monsters ventured there; so as long as one lured the monsters away, other players could enter the mine freely.
708
709The mine was massive, and its terrain was complicated. Very few monsters patrolled the mine, as well. As long as one didn't explore too deep, they would not find any significant danger. When a player finished their mining, they simply needed to use a Return Scroll to leave safely. Hence, many players had taken the risk the risk to mine there.
710
711As more players headed to the Mithril mine, the Basic Holy Spirit Potion's price quickly rose to 5 Silver. Later, it had even reached 10 Silver per bottle. Alchemist players had been overjoyed.
712
713The Basic Holy Spirit Potion's recipe was not particularly difficult to obtain. Level 30 and above Team Dungeons had a chance of dropping it. Unfortunately, the drop-rate was very low, which resulted in few copies on the market. The potion's materials were also relatively common. Crafting the potion's main requirement was a Holy Spirit Flower, which was considered a rare herb. Making the potion didn't even cost 1 Silver.
714
715Thinking up to this point, Shi Feng burst into action.
716
717This was a valuable opportunity to make a fortune.
718
719Emerald City's player population was in the millions. Once players discovered the method of mining in White Bone Town, swarms of players would flock to the Mithril vein. One could just imagine how large the market would be for the Basic Holy Spirit Potion.
720
721Following which, Shi Feng changed the New Moon Trading Firm's name to the Candlelight Trading Firm and removed the Lifestyle players and products in the Shop. He then made a trip to the City Hall and spent 1,000 Gold to upgrade the Shopfront to the highest-ranking available. He also hired NPCs to purchase various kinds of ores, herbs, and Emeralds.
722
723As for the Candlelight products that would be sold in this Shop and the Shop's personnel, Shi Feng passed the responsibility to the Candlelight Trading Firms' management team. Meanwhile, he visited the Auction Houses in the Black Dragon Empire's various cities to purchase the Basic Holy Spirit Potion Recipe and Holy Spirit Flowers.
724
725After spending most of the day like this, Shi Feng finally bought all the recipes on the Black Dragon Empire's market.
726
727He had managed to collect a total of 776 recipes. Although the method to obtain the recipe was easy, its drop rate was painfully low.
728
729The recipe's current market price wasn't high. Shi Feng only spent around 35 to 40 Silver Coins for each copy. Overall, he had not even spent 300 Gold to buy all of the copies. The low price was mainly due to players not having a major use for the Basic Holy Spirit Potion; it simply wasn't one of Alchemists' hot items. If he were looking for the Intermediate Regeneration Potion and the Intermediate Mana Recovery Potion's recipes, however, they would be much more expensive.
730
731With so many recipes, even after every Alchemist in the Candlelight Trading Firm learned it, he would still have plenty to spare.
732
733Shi Feng had also bought over 6,500 stacks of Holy Spirit Flowers, with 20 flowers per stack. Currently, each stack sold for around 12 to 13 Silver. In total, Shi Feng had spent over 800 Gold on the Holy Spirit Flowers.
734
735For a while, I'll have Candlelight purchase Holy Spirit Flowers. Shi Feng was mostly satisfied with how many Holy Spirit Flowers he had procured.
736
737At the end of the day, the Holy Spirit Flower was a rare herb. Rather than sell it, most Guilds usually opted to store the flowers in their Guild Warehouses. Only independent players sold the herb, thus the limited supply on the market.
738
739If he turned these 6,500-plus stacks of Holy Spirit Flower into Basic Holy Spirit Potions, he would have enough to last Emerald City's players for quite some time. As long as the Candlelight Trading Firm's acquisition of Holy Spirit Flowers could keep up with the potion's demand, Emerald City would become a stable source of income for the trading firm for a relatively long time.
740
741Shi Feng had also spent 3,000 Gold to construct an Advanced Guild Hall in Lake Heart City.
742
743Although the Land he bought from Phoenix Rain could not compare to Zero Wing's main Guild Residence, the towering Advanced Guild Hall was still impressive enough to shock Lake Heart City's players.
744
745"Wow! This Guild has style!"
746
747"I wonder which Guild this is, to think that anyone would want to develop in this backwater city."
748
749"It shouldn't be a large Guild, right? Maybe it's some third-rate Guild."
750
751"I guess you're right. There is no way a large Guild would fancy our Lake Heart City."
752
753There were not many players residing in Lake Heart City due to its location on an island. There were not many good leveling spots around, either. The city's current population was slightly over 100,000. No first-rate Guild would waste their efforts on a desolate city like this. As a result, only a second-rate Guild ruled over Lake Heart City. Moreover, its main headquarters wasn't located in the city. Rather, it was based in a major city with a player population of over half a million.
754
755Furthermore, the Guild Residences in Lake Heart City. They were a far cry from Zero Wing's magnificent Advanced Guild Hall.
756
757"Huh? Wait a minute! Look at the emblem on that Guild flag! Doesn't that look like Zero Wing's six-winged emblem?!"
758
759Chapter 988: The Seven Treasures' First Appearance
760
761
762
763Upon hearing Zero Wing's name, the players on the street turned to look at the flag flying from the Guild Hall's roof.
764
765"It really is a six-winged emblem!"
766
767"What?!"
768
769"Star-Moon Kingdom's number one Guild is actually starting a Branch Guild here?!"
770
771Many people felt chills crawl down their spines, excitement overwhelming them as they stared at the Guild flag. None of them could believe their eyes.
772
773Although Lake Heart City was in the Black Dragon Empire, the empire neighbored Star-Moon Kingdom. They were up-to-date about the nearby kingdoms. They also frequently purchased a copy the God's Domain Experts List. Everybody knew about Zero Wing's Guild Leader, Black Flame. Moreover, the ruler of the Black Dragon Empire's imperial capital, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, had suffered at Zero Wing's hands.
774
775With such a powerful Guild appearing in Lake Heart City, how could they contain their excitement?
776
777"Since Zero Wing is coming here… does this mean we'll have a chance to join Zero Wing?"
778
779"I guess so? When a Guild develops in a new city, it normally recruits some of the local players to expand gradually."
780
781"I heard that the benefits Zero Wing offers are awesome; they are even better than what first-rate Guilds offer. In other Guilds, I heard that only core members get to use the Guild Hall's Private Rooms. On the other hand, one only needs to be an elite member in Zero Wing to rent a Private Room and accumulate the Double EXP buff."
782
783"I've always wanted to join Zero Wing. Unfortunately, it costs too much to teleport from the Black Dragon Empire to White River City. Now, though, I don't have to worry about teleportation fees."
784
785Anticipation filled these independent players' hearts as the ogled Zero Wing's new Guild Residence. To ordinary players, traveling to other countries was too expensive. Even if they spent their entire fortune traveling to White River City, there was no guarantee that they would be accepted into the Guild.
786
787Furthermore, they had long since familiarized themselves with Lake Heart City and its surroundings. If they started developing in an unknown city, their leveling speed and daily income would decrease drastically. In addition, unlike in Lake Heart City, they wouldn't have companions to rely on in White River City.
788
789Now, however, times had changed.
790
791Shortly after Zero Wing's Branch Guild had appeared, news of this matter quickly spread throughout the city.
792
793Some rejoiced, while others grew worried. To independent players, Zero Wing's appearance was good news. To the local Guilds, however, nothing was good about this development.
794
795When the Crimson Castle Guild, the second-rate Guild ruling over Lake Heart City, received the news, it had held an emergency meeting among its upper echelons.
796
797"Why has Zero Wing suddenly shown up in a backwater city like Lake Heart City?"
798
799"If Zero Wing really intends on developing here, they will target the high-resource areas we usually occupy."
800
801"What's there to be afraid of? Even if Zero Wing is powerful in Star-Moon Kingdom, this is Lake Heart City. This is our territory. We are far more familiar with the city's surroundings than Zero Wing. Even if a war breaks out between our Guilds, the winner isn't set in stone."
802
803Crimson Castle's upper echelons discussed the situation heatedly.
804
805Although the leveling areas around Lake Heart City were not particularly beneficial, once players familiarized themselves with the area, their leveling speed would increase. Moreover, unlike other cities, there were very few Guilds in Lake Heart City. This allowed Crimson Castle to obtain plenty of raw materials very easily.
806
807"There is no need to get too worked up about this. I have heard that the situation in Star-Moon Kingdom isn't very stable. Zero Wing won't focus too much on conquering Lake Heart City. Moreover, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion has a grudge against Zero Wing. If we report Zero Wing's arrival to the Pavilion, the Pavilion will seek vengeance," the dignified, middle-aged man in the Guild Leader's seat said as he watched the arguing players before him. In a deep tone, he said, "During this period, keep an eye on Zero Wing's members. Report everything to the Pavilion."
808
809Hearing their Guild Leader's order, the Crimson Castle's upper echelons fell silent and nodded in agreement.
810
811As their Guild Leader had said, Zero Wing had used the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion as a stepping stone to become famous, leaving the Pavilion's prestige in tatters. After that incident, the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion's Nine Dragons Emperor declared that he would not let the matter rest.
812
813Although dealing with Zero Wing in Star-Moon Kingdom was difficult for the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, it was a different story in the Black Dragon Empire.
814
815The Black Dragon Empire was the Pavilion's territory. It would be child's play to take care of a measly Branch Guild.
816
817…
818
819While Crimson Castle hashed out a plan to deal with Zero Wing, Shi Feng spent 300 Gold to bind the Guild Transfer Scroll's coordinates.
820
821Afterward, Zero Wing's members in White River City could simply purchase Lake Heart City's Guild Transfer Scrolls to travel to the city directly.
822
823The Guild Transfer Scroll was one of a Guild's greatest benefits. Unlike NPC cities' Teleportation Halls, which charged a steep teleportation fee, players only needed to purchase the corresponding Guild Transfer Scroll to reach their desired Guild Residence. However, such a major benefit came with restrictions. Players were only allowed to carry one Guild Transfer Scroll at a time. Moreover, the scroll had a very long Cooldown. The Transfer Scrolls' prices also varied depending on the distance between the destination and where it was purchased. Regardless, it was still cheaper than using the Teleportation Halls.
824
825If a Guild had enough Guild Residences, it could easily replace Teleportation Halls.
826
827When Shi Feng finished binding the coordinates, he looked at the time. Glancing up at the already-dark sky, he called up his system interface, intending to log off for the day and rest.
828
829Now that he had established Lake Heart City's Branch Guild, he needed Aqua Rose to transfer the batches of selected members. As for Raven's monster-repelling issue, Shi Feng had already instructed Flying Shadow to handle it.
830
831Originally, he had intended Fire Dance to carry out the task. However, Fire Dance was currently busy leading Zero Wing's members in raiding the Undead Gorge and did not have time to spare. So, he used his next-best option–Flying Shadow.
832
833Flying Shadow was Zero Wing's second-best Assassin. Not only was his Movement Speed quite high, but he could also move about rather secretively. He wasn't easy to detect.
834
835When it was time to repel the monster invasion, Flying Shadow could use the Monster Repellent Scroll without anyone noticing, which would reduce the chances of Raven discovering the scroll.
836
837Although the Monster Repellent Scroll was very rare and few people knew about it, seeing as Quiet Melody, the Sacred Temple's Vice Temple Master, had purchased so many in Blackwing City, Shi Feng deemed it wise to use the scrolls discreetly, hiding the scroll's function. In any case, Zero Wing only needed to repel the invasions. It was not obligated to reveal its means of doing so.
838
839After clicking the "Logout" button, while Shi Feng waited on the logout timer, he habitually used the Golden Stigmata's Detect Skill.
840
841The quest to find the Seven Treasures was truly sinister. With God's Domain being so massive, how was he supposed to locate them?
842
843Fortunately, he had been given a very long time limit to complete the quest. Hence, Shi Feng routinely used the Detect Skill once a day. If not for the Skill's one-day Cooldown, his search for the Seven Treasures would've proceeded much faster.
844
845After using the Detect Skill, Shi Feng heard the sound of a system notification.
846
847System: The Golden Stigmata has detected the Seven Treasures' energy waves. Do you wish to track the energy waves?
848
849Why would the Seven Treasures be here?! Shi Feng instantly tensed.
850
851He had never imagined that he would come across the Seven Treasures' energy waves in Lake Heart City!
852
853Chapter 989: Special Set Equipment
854
855
856
857Upon hearing the system notification, Shi Feng immediately stopped the logout process and chose to track the energy waves.
858
859The Golden Stigmata's Detect had a 50,000-yard range, which was not particularly large. The Skill just managed to cover Lake Heart City as well as the surrounding forest and fields.
860
861There should not be any monsters within that range, and it was even less likely for there to be any relics. Otherwise, someone would have long since discovered them. After all, it was impossible for an NPC city to be constructed above a relic.
862
863Yet, the Seven Treasures, which had been lost for many years, had appeared in the middle of nowhere. It was inconceivable.
864
865As expected, it is inside the city. Shi Feng could not help his surprise when he saw the perceived location on his map. This should be in the Noble's District.
866
867Although Shi Feng knew that the Seven Treasures could be anywhere, who could've thought that he would find the legendary Seven Treasures in Lake Heart City's Noble's District?
868
869If the War God's Temple knew that the Seven Treasures were in the Black Dragon Empire, they would've turned the empire over in their search, not to mention the insignificant Lake Heart City.
870
871After checking the general location, Shi Feng summoned the Demonic Flame Tiger and charged towards the Noble's District.
872
873"A monster! A monster has appeared in the city!"
874
875"Crap, that's… a Mount!"
876
877"What kind of Mount is that?! It's so cool!"
878
879When the players on the street saw the Demonic Flame Tiger charge out of Zero Wing's Residence, they were stupefied.
880
881A city like Lake Heart City didn't even have one Level 40 player, much less a Mount. Hence, when these players saw the majestic, towering Demonic Flame Tiger, they grew more enthusiastic to join Zero Wing.
882
883…
884
885Black Dragon Empire, Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion's Guild Residence:
886
887Entering the Guild Leader's office, a beautiful, tall female Summoner reported respectfully, "Vice Guild Leader, the Crimson Castle's Guild Leader requests a meeting with you. He claims that it is related to Zero Wing."
888
889"I understand. It seems that quite a few people are displeased with Zero Wing today," Blood Dragon, the Guild Leader of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion's Black Dragon Empire Branch Guild, said, chuckling. "Ghost, bring him in."
890
891The female Summoner, Beautiful Ghost, nodded. She left the office to guide Crimson Castle's Guild Leader.
892
893…
894
895Inside the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion's reception room, a robust man, standing about two-meters tall, waited patiently. This man was none other than the Crimson Castle's Guild Leader, Crimson Fox.
896
897Why haven't they met with me yet? Crimson Fox was frustrated as he stared beyond the window pane at the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion's members going about their business.
898
899Sure enough, the Pavilion deserved to be called a super-first-rate Guild. Despite only being a Branch Guild's Residence, he saw plenty of experts moving about the hall, with many of them radiating a significant pressure. Among these experts, he envied a few players' equipment.
900
901The Crimson Castle could never compare to a Guild like the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion.
902
903Crimson Fox had originally intended to send one of the Guild's upper echelons to the Pavilion. However, when he thought about the violent and arrogant temper of the Pavilion's Vice Guild Leader, Blood Dragon, he felt that it would be safer if he visited the Guild personally. Once he reached the Pavilion's Guild Residence, he firmly believed that he had made the right decision. His Guild's representative would never have been allowed through the Pavilion's gates.
904
905Moreover, not long ago, he received another message from his subordinates stating that Zero Wing's Demonic Flame Tiger had appeared in Lake Heart City. The upper echelons of God's Domain's various Guilds were no strangers to the Demonic Tiger. After all, the Demonic Tiger was known as the best Mount in God's Domain. Many even suspected that it might be a Fine-Gold Mount. Besides, this powerful Mount's owner was none other than Zero Wing's Ye Feng.
906
907Those who understood Zero Wing knew that Ye Feng's position in the Guild was definitely among the top three. He might even be second only to Zero Wing's Guild Leader, Black Flame. Such an important figure in Lake Heart City stressed Crimson Fox.
908
909Anyone capable of leading a large Guild was no idiot. With a figure like Ye Feng visiting the city, it was clear how important Lake Heart City was to Zero Wing. If they did not remove Zero Wing as soon as possible, it would only be a matter of time before Crimson Castle fell from the position of the city's ruler.
910
911While Crimson Fox occupied himself with these thoughts, the reception room's wooden doors swung open. A tall beauty then entered the room. This woman was the female Summoner Beautiful Ghost, who had reported to Blood Dragon.
912
913When Crimson Fox's eyes met Beautiful Ghost's, he shuddered. Alarm bells rang in his mind, warning him to be careful of the woman standing before him.
914
915"You're Crimson Fox? Follow me," Beautiful Ghost said. After sparing Crimson Fox a glance, she turned and left the reception room with an air of indifference. Her eyes hadn't contained a hint of respect when she looked at Crimson Fox. Rather, they held contempt, as if she had been watching an ant. If not for Blood Dragon's orders, she would not have paid any attention to the man at all.
916
917Although Crimson Foxed wanted to respond, after a moment of hesitation, he chose to shut his mouth.
918
919Aside from the fact that he was on foreign soil, this female Summoner was already stronger than him. Not only was she Level 39, but her equipment also radiated the unique glow of Dark-Gold items. Moreover, the red-blue robes, headwear, and other equipment were clearly pieces of a set. In other words, Beautiful Ghost wore a Dark-Gold Set Equipment. In comparison, he only had individual pieces of Level 35 Dark-Gold Equipment.
920
921A Level 35 Dark-Gold Set Equipment? As expected of a super-first-rate Guild. Crimson Fox smiled bitterly. He had no choice but to endure this woman's contemptuous look. After all, she had more than earned her arrogance.
922
923However, Crimson Fox did not know that Beautiful Ghost's Dark-Gold Set Equipment was not a Level 35 set.
924
925If Shi Feng were present, he would have instantly recognized the equipment. This was the Level 40 Dark-Gold Set Equipment, Life Summons. Only Level 40 and above Field Great Lords had a chance of dropping these set pieces.
926
927Initially, only Level 40 Summoners could equip the Life Summons set. However, this equipment was somewhat special. If one had all five pieces of the set, the level requirement would drop by five Levels.
928
929Under Beautiful Ghost's lead, Crimson Fox quickly arrived before the Guild Leader's office on the third floor. On his way, Crimson Fox had seen many Level 50 NPC guards. Without someone of relevance as a guide, even the Guild's elite members would not be allowed near the Guild Leader's office.
930
931Upon entering the office, Crimson Fox involuntarily shuddered.
932
933He felt an immense pressure, almost as if a Boss monster were in the room with him. Moreover, it didn't feel like any ordinary Boss monster. At the very least, it felt like a Lord Boss or stronger.
934
935How is this possible?! Crimson Fox stared at Blood Dragon, who leaned against his office chair while enjoying a glass of wine, shock filling his heart. Is this the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion's Vice Guild Leader?
936
937At this moment, Crimson Fox struggled to breathe. Compared to Blood Dragon, the pressure he felt from Beautiful Ghost before was a joke.
938
939Against Beautiful Ghost, he could, more or less, move unaffected. However, when faced with Blood Dragon, his movements were somewhat sluggish. In battle, this pressure would greatly impact his combat power.
940
941However, the scene inside the office was even more shocking. Seated opposite of Blood Dragon was a gorgeous woman who, despite the powerful mental oppression in the room, seemed utterly unaffected…
942
943Chapter 990: Empire's Overlord
944
945
946
947Who is she?
948
949Crimson Fox's attention unconsciously drifted to the leisurely woman.
950
951Currently, Blood Dragon was Level 40, and only a handful of players throughout the Black Dragon Empire had reached this Level.
952
953Level 40 players were much stronger than Level 39 players in terms of Attributes as they could equip Level 40 equipment. If even he, someone who wore a full collection of Level 35 Dark-Gold Equipment, felt such immense pressure from Blood Dragon, one could just imagine how intense of a pressure a Level 20 player would feel in Blood Dragon's aura.
954
955Yet, the mysterious woman before him treated Blood Dragon's undisguised aura as if it were a spring breeze.
956
957In addition, the mysterious woman herself exuded a noble and graceful aura that coaxed one into submission.
958
959"Sit," Blood Dragon told Crimson Fox as he pointed to one of the wooden chairs on the other side of his desk. "Let me introduce you. This beauty is the Blackwater Corporation's representative, Qin Muyun. Like you, she is here for Zero Wing."
960
961"The Blackwater Corporation?!" Crimson Fox was taken aback.
962
963Everyone had heard of the Blackwater Corporation. It was a Fortune 500 company. Meanwhile, the young woman before him had been chosen to represent such a major corporation.
964
965"Guild Leader Crimson, if you have any information regarding Zero Wing that you wish to share, please tell us. I believe that Miss Muyun is also interested to hear it," Blood Dragon said, chuckling.
966
967Crimson Fox nodded nervously. He then relayed everything about Zero Wing's development in Lake Heart City.
968
969"Vice Guild Leader Blood, you've seen Zero Wing's ambition for yourself. If we let Zero Wing develop any further, no one will be able to guarantee that Zero Wing won't set its sights on the Black Dragon Empire. If we don't take measures to contain the Guild, with its development speed thus far, it won't be long before it grows so big that even you will be helpless against it," Qin Muyun said, smiling. "You should consider my earlier proposal."
970
971Qin Muyun had the voice of a siren. Her words were intoxicating. Even an expert like Crimson Fox was not completely unaffected.
972
973Initially, Qin Muyun had worried that the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion would reject their offer of cooperation. Now, however, her worries had been resolved.
974
975Before this, Zero Wing's operations had been limited to Star-Moon Kingdom. No matter how strong it became, it wouldn't impact the Pavilion's operations in the Black Dragon Empire. However, she had never imagined that, of all places, Zero Wing would choose to expand into the Black Dragon Empire.
976
977The Black Dragon Empire was the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion's territory!
978
979For the sake of its reputation, the Pavilion couldn't let Zero Wing enjoy itself here. Otherwise, Nine Dragons Emperor's prior declaration would be nothing more than his own disgrace.
980
981"Since Miss Muyun has already said as much, I agree to provide support in resources, products, Coins, and experts to help you defeat Zero Wing. Once the deed is done, however, the Pavilion wants full authority over Stone Forest Town."
982
983"Please rest assured. As long as the Pavilion helps us from the sidelines, the Blackwater Corporation will deal with the rest." Qin Muyun smiled. "If there isn't anything else to discuss, I must leave to report the good news to my superiors."
984
985Blood Dragon nodded before sending Qin Muyun off with his gaze.
986
987"Vice Guild Leader Blood, what about Lake Heart City?" Crimson Fox asked anxiously.
988
989Lake Heart City was an important source of income for the Crimson Castle. Without it, the Guild's development would deteriorate significantly.
990
991"Relax. Since Zero Wing dares to enter the Black Dragon Empire, the Pavilion won't let the Guild off the hook. I will send the Blood Legion to assist the Crimson Castle. We'll make sure that Zero Wing regrets ever setting foot in the Black Dragon Empire." Blood Dragon could not help but chuckle. Turning to Crimson Fox, he spoke in a domineering tone, "I'll appoint my aid, Beautiful Ghost, to command the operation. I believe that you do not have any arguments, right?"
992
993"Of course, of course!" Crimson Fox said excitedly.
994
995The Blood Legion was a legion of expert Assassins that everyone in the Black Dragon Empire knew about. Not only did these experts possess excellent equipment, but every one of them was also adept with ambushes in the fields.
996
997Although the Blood Legion was not the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion's strongest force, it was the one that the various large Guilds feared the most. Even first-rate Guilds were afraid of the Blood Legion.
998
999Out in the fields, even a single expert Assassin was a force not to be reckoned with. Knowing that a team of 1,000 expert Assassins waited for them, who would possibly be bold enough to venture out to grind monsters?
1000
1001Even if a Guild dispatched a small army of players to hunt down the Blood Legion, its efforts would be futile.
1002
1003It was precisely this reason that the various large Guilds paled at the mention of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion's Blood Legion. Only a super-first-rate Guild with a powerful foundation was capable of compiling such a force. For a first-rate Guild, even forming a team of 100 expert Assassins was impossible.
1004
1005Now that the Pavilion intended to dispatch the Blood Legion, Zero Wing's members should not even consider leaving Lake Heart City. If they did, they should not dream of returning alive. If this persisted, Zero Wing would not survive in Lake Heart City. Eventually, it would be forced to withdraw.
1006
1007"I'll leave the rest to you," Blood Dragon told Beautiful Ghost.
1008
1009"Vice Guild Leader, do not worry. I will gather the men right away. It will only take a few days to eradicate Zero Wing from the Black Dragon Empire," Beautiful Ghost said very confidently.
1010
1011In Beautiful Ghost's opinion, their opponent was merely Zero Wing's Branch Guild. Dispatching the Blood Legion was simply making a big fuss over nothing.
1012
1013…
1014
1015Lake Heart City's Noble's District:
1016
1017Not many players wandered down the street of Western-European buildings, only NPC nobles.
1018
1019When Shi Feng arrived before a luxurious mansion atop the Demonic Flame Tiger, he noticed a team of 20 players gathered at its gates. He also spotted a few familiar figures among the team members.
1020
1021These people were none other than Thoughtful Rain, Blue Bamboo, Gunfire, Death Wind, and Autumn Goose.
1022
1023"Big Brother Ye Feng! Why are you here?" Blue Bamboo noticed Shi Feng and the towering Demonic Flame Tiger immediately, surprise flashing in her eyes.
1024
1025Hearing Blue Bamboo's exclamation, Thoughtful Rain and the others turned towards the Demonic Tiger by the entrance.
1026
1027Shi Feng was even more shocked by the sudden development than Thoughtful Rain and her companions.
1028
1029He had only arrived before this mansion due to the Seven Treasures. At this point, the Golden Stigmata's tracker pointed to the Seven Treasures' exact location. He had never expected to find Thoughtful Rain and the others here as well.
1030
1031However, after Blue Bamboo had noticed him, the rest of the team turned and glared as if he were their greatest enemy, killing intent filling their eyes.
1032
1033Suddenly, the Shield Warrior Death Wind scattered the heavy atmosphere as he approached Shi Feng and asked pleasantly, "Brother Ye Feng, what a coincidence! Are you here for a quest as well?"
1034
1035Chapter 991: Cost of Contempt
1036
1037
1038
1039"An acquaintance?"
1040
1041When everyone in the team saw Death Wind greet Shi Feng, their gazes softened slightly. Even so, they remained very cautious with him.
1042
1043Currently, Shi Feng wore his Black Cloak, so they could not see his information. However, the fact that he rode a Mount showed that he was extraordinarily strong. Otherwise, he wouldn't have reached Level 40 so quickly.
1044
1045They wouldn't mind a weak acquaintance. However, Shi Feng's strength was precisely the reason that they remained wary.
1046
1047"Autumn, you guys know him?" a robust man asked Autumn Goose, who stood beside him.
1048
1049This robust man' weathered appearance spoke of years of life's vicissitudes. A suit of silvery-gray knight's armor protected his body, and he carried a tower shield that was nearly as tall as he was. At his waist, he carried a luxurious golden knight's sword. Furthermore, he had already reached Level 40.
1050
1051"Mhm. He's one of Zero Wing's Elders. He is incredibly strong. It was thanks to him that we had completed our previous quest." Autumn Goose nodded to the robust man's question. She did not try to hide anything as the man beside her was none other than the commander of the Wind God's Spear, Fallen Wind. "If we can convince Ye Feng to help us, we'll have a much higher chance of completing this quest."
1052
1053Hearing Autumn Goose's words, Fallen Wind could not help but reexamine Shi Feng.
1054
1055Although Autumn Goose seemed approachable on the surface, she was arrogant to the bone. In her eyes, very few people were worth Autumn Goose's recognition.
1056
1057"Autumn, aren't you giving him a bit too much credit? Isn't he just some expert a large Guild nurtured? How strong could he possibly be? If we take him with us, he'll probably only hold us back," a frosty youth in brown leather armor said dismissively.
1058
1059Aside from Wind God's Spear's brilliant battle records in the multiple confrontations they have had with several large Guilds, their several new experts were already many times stronger than first-rate Guilds' pampered experts. As for the members here today, they were the crème de la crème of the Wind God's Spear.
1060
1061Every Wind God's Spear member here was a top-class expert with a list of illustrious achievements. How could someone like Shi Feng possibly compare to them?
1062
1063To further his point, the youth had never seen Shi Feng's name on God's Domain's Experts List.
1064
1065Disregarding the cold youth's words, Autumn Goose looked directly at Fallen Wind and said, "Commander, I believe that Big Brother Death Wind will also support my point."
1066
1067At Autumn Goose's strong recommendation of Shi Feng, Thoughtful Rain's beautiful eyes sparkled with anticipation. Although she did not understand why, whenever she was with Shi Feng, she felt indescribably safe. She didn't even feel like this when she traveled with someone as powerful as Fallen Wind.
1068
1069"This is interesting." Fallen Wind could not help but watch the cloaked Shi Feng, curiosity flashing in his eyes.
1070
1071Naturally, there was no need to mention Shi Feng's level. However, the Swordsman's combat standards were unknown. Generally, one could judge a person's strength based on the aura they radiated. The stronger a person was, the stronger their aura was. Such a phenomenon was due to the confidence they gained from experiencing countless battles.
1072
1073Yet…
1074
1075Even after observing Shi Feng for a long moment, Fallen Wind could not sense any aura that hinted at Shi Feng's strength.
1076
1077As to whether or not Shi Feng concealed his aura, this was unlikely. After all, even experts would find it extremely difficult to conceal their aura completely unless their mental fortitude had reached a certain level. However, experts capable of doing so were generally in their thirties or forties. Some only reached this refinement in their fifties. To put it simply, it was impossible for a youth to have enough control to hide their aura.
1078
1079However, both Autumn Goose and Death Wind seemed to admire Shi Feng.
1080
1081This was strange indeed.
1082
1083"Autumn, let's pass on asking him this time. If the opportunity presents itself, we can invite him in the future. We've already determined our team's roster. Sudden adjustments to the team will increase our chances of failure," Fallen Wind said after giving it some thought. "We cannot afford to fail this quest. If we complete this quest, the Wind God's Spear's strength will climb to a new level. The Wind God's Spear won't have to shuffle around in the Dark Night Empire's shadows anymore. Instead, the empire's large Guilds will have to hide like rats."
1084
1085"I understand," Autumn Goose dejectedly replied.
1086
1087She understood Fallen Wind's sentiment. They had invested a lot of effort into this quest. Now that they had reached the final phase and were prepared, they would be taking unnecessary risks if they replaced one of the team members.
1088
1089"Our Commander knows best. If we allow a half-assed expert into the team, I'll constantly have to worry about him dragging me to the grave," the cold youth said, nodding.
1090
1091When Thoughtful Rain and Blue Bamboo heard Fallen Wind reject Autumn Goose's proposal and Ordinary Blade's, the cold youth, ridicule, they were annoyed.
1092
1093However, as they were members of Zero Wing, they did not find it appropriate to intervene in Wind God's Spear's internal matters.
1094
1095Yet, Ordinary Blade's disrespect of Shi Feng made the somewhat angry.
1096
1097"Commander Fallen, I apologize, but Blue and I won't be participating in this operation. After all, this is the Wind God's Spear's affair. It wouldn't be proper for us to take part," Thoughtful Rain announced.
1098
1099They had simply tagged along for this quest due to Fallen Wind's invitation and their friendship with Autumn Goose and the others.
1100
1101Now that Zero Wing's Elder had been belittled, how could they, members of Zero Wing, remain on the team?
1102
1103"Ordinary, apologize to Miss Rain and Miss Blue!" Fallen Wind growled as he glared at the frosty youth. How could he not understand the meaning behind Thoughtful Rain's words?
1104
1105The sudden development stupefied Ordinary Blade.
1106
1107He was simply trying to make himself look good before Thoughtful Rain and Blue Bamboo. How had things ended up this way?
1108
1109What was going on here?
1110
1111"Miss Rain and Miss Blue are members of Zero Wing!" Fallen Wind softly reminded the boy.
1112
1113This was the first time Ordinary Blade had met Thoughtful Rain and Blue Bamboo. In addition, as the two women were participating in the quest as individuals, they had not worn their Guild Emblems. Hence, Ordinary Blade had not realized that the duo was from Zero Wing.
1114
1115"Miss Rain, I misspoke. Please, forgive me," Ordinary Blade quickly apologized after realizing his blunder. He very much felt like digging a hole and jumping in.
1116
1117Seeing Ordinary Blade's distress, Autumn Goose, who was familiar with the youth, could not help but giggle.
1118
1119In the Wind God's Spear, Ordinary Blade was famous for his indifference. However, when the youth had met Thoughtful Rain for the first time, his eyes had nearly fallen from their sockets. It was obvious that the youth was interested in Thoughtful Rain. Unfortunately, his attempt to impress her had backfired magnificently.
1120
1121This time, even their commander couldn't save him.
1122
1123She and Thoughtful Rain were as close as sisters. She was very familiar with Thoughtful Rain's personality.
1124
1125When Thoughtful Rain made a decision, even a force of nature wouldn't change her mind…
1126
1127She remembered Thoughtful Rain's decision to join Zero Wing. No matter how much she had tried to dissuade the girl, hadn't Thoughtful Rain still joined the Guild?