Chapter 550

Chapter 550: Exceeding Expectations

Under Nine Dragons Emperor’s command, the members of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion charged towards Zero Wing’s Guild Residence.

The Pavilion’s army’s attack was organized. A majority of the Pavilion’s elite players were positioned in the front of the army, whereas the War Dragon Legion occupied the middle, and the remaining elite players took up the rear.

These players were further separated into groups. However, unlike Guild wars that usually involved thousands of players, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion had grouped its members into parties of six. Each party consisted of MTs, healers, and ranged and melee damage dealers: the standard compositions of a Dungeon party.

Although this militaristic configuration was not suited for a large battlefield, it was perfect for battles in narrow terrains such as a city. The army could react to all sorts of problems in a timely manner.

“It has finally begun. Purple, did you order those Assassins under you to record this battle?” Galaxy Past, who sat comfortably in a third-floor private room of the high-class bar, asked. Smiling, he stated, “This is a good opportunity to collect data on the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, particularly the experts from the War Dragon Legion. Every member of the legion is worth noting. It might come in handy in the future.”

This high-class bar offered an excellent vantage point. He could see practically everything that occurred around Zero Wing’s Residence. However, Galaxy Past was still not satisfied with this. He had positioned Assassins under his command in several other buildings in order to record the battle from the closest distance possible.

Just how strong was the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion?

Particularly, how was the Pavilion’s strength after joining God’s Domain?

Other than a few upper managers of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, nobody knew the answer to these questions.

Now that the Pavilion launched an assault on Zero Wing’s Residence, it was clear to see that their strength was nothing to scoff at. Otherwise, every large Guild would have already attacked Guild Residences that they found to be an eyesore instead of letting those Guilds with little strength live this long.

Just the patrolling guards were enough trouble. The hired guards were no trivial matter either; they all were Level 50 NPCs. To current players, these Level 50 NPCs were still too powerful to handle.

However, the truly troublesome issue was the players of the Guild itself.

Zero Wing had definitely taken some precautionary measures. It was normal for around twenty to thirty thousand players to defend the Guild Residence at all times.

Even if the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion had deployed the War Dragon Legion, Zero Wing’s Guild Residence would not be so easily destroyed.

The Pavilion would have to reveal some of its true capabilities, and this was precisely what Galaxy Past, and all of the other large Guilds watching, wanted to witness.

As God’s Domain was still in its early stages, there had yet to be any major conflicts between the various first-rate Guilds, Super Guilds, and the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion. However, that would not necessarily remain the case in the future. It was better to prepare ahead of time.

Hence, the Star Alliance wasn’t the only Guild to send a large group of Assassins to record the battle. Many other Guilds had also dispatched their Assassins, all of them hoping to uncover even the smallest detail about the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s background.

—

Meanwhile, inside Zero Wing’s Residence, the Guild’s members had long since prepared for the upcoming war. Every one of them stood, waiting, inside the Guild Residence.

“Guild Leader, they’ve arrived. Initial estimates put their number somewhere over 10,000, with the weakest among them being elite players. Their equipment is also a match for our elite members’,” Aqua Rose reported.

Everyone’s heart skipped a beat upon hearing Aqua Rose’s report.

Although Zero Wing had 50,000 members, they only had around 14,500 elites. Yet, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion had casually mustered a force of 10,000 elite players. This was simply too frightening…

“Sure enough, the Pavilion is both rich and powerful,” Shi Feng laughed. This situation did not surprise him. After all, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was a super-first-rate Guild. Even though White River City was not the Pavilion’s home ground, it would still be child’s play for it to obliterate a second-rate Guild. “Move out, then. Coordinate your attacks with the NPCs. Core members, your main goal is to fend off the Pavilion’s War Dragon Legion. As for the enemy elites, they are just cannon fodder. Don’t worry about them.”

“Yes, sir!”

Everyone from Zero Wing unsheathed their weapons as a single unit, preparing to meet the oncoming threat.

This time, Shi Feng did not bother to send for many members to defend the Guild Residence. The defending players consisted only of Zero Wing’s elite and core members with a total just over 14,000 players. It was not because Shi Feng did not want more people defending the Residence. Only, having more people was not necessarily a good thing.

A normal member of the Guild would only find their death by joining this battle. Moreover, the battlefield was very cramped. There was simply no way to display the advantage of numbers here. On the contrary, having too many members in the battle would only obstruct the elite members.

As the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s army was about to charge through the Residence’s entrance, the ranged classes of Zero Wing got ready to launch their spells and arrows.

If an outsider barged into the Residence without explicit permission, Guild members were allowed to kill said outsider without needing to fear any repercussions. The city guards would not take action against the Guild members. On the contrary, if an outsider attacked people inside the Residence, the city guards would rush towards the Residence to apprehend them.

As elemental mana began to gather above Zero Wing’s Residence and patrolling city guards began to charge over…

Nine Dragons Emperor suddenly shouted, “Activate the scrolls!”

Suddenly, several MTs at the forefront of the army revealed black magic scrolls that they had kept hidden for quite some time now. The MTs immediately unfurled the scrolls and activated them.

In the next moment, the elemental mana filing the space above Zero Wing’s Residence started going berserk.

“Curse Scroll?” Shi Feng was genuinely surprised when he saw the magic scrolls in his enemies’ hands.

Magic scrolls fit into various categories. However, the rarest had to be ones that carried Curses. This was a type of forbidden spell. All Curses possessed an astonishing might, and it was not easy to turn it into a magic scroll. Hence, it was extremely difficult to obtain even one Curse Scroll.

Yet, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion had actually managed to reveal four such scrolls. It was simply inconceivable.

At this moment, however, even Nine Dragons Emperor’s face twitched slightly.

Four Curse Scrolls… He had only managed to obtain these four scrolls after gathering the entirety of the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion’s power. Now that he was using all of them in one go, and on a small, nameless Guild no less, even he felt the sting of the loss.

“Four Curse Scrolls. Consider this your burial, Zero Wing,” Nine Dragons Emperor smiled faintly at the dark clouds gathering in the sky.

Suddenly, black rain began to fall. As if these black raindrops had lives of their own, they attached themselves to all players caught within the spell’s vicinity.

“Dark God’s Descent!” Shi Feng paled instantly.

Although he wanted to defend against this spell, Dark God’s Descent was unblockable. Even if he had magic immunity, it wouldn’t change a thing. Dark God’s Descent was a Silencing Curse. With four of these Curse Scrolls being used simultaneously, the forbidden spell’s effective radius and duration increased significantly. It was definitely an efficient weapon for team battles.

At this moment, a Dark God status imperceptibly appeared in everyone’s status window, the duration lasting for one full hour.

In other words, within the next hour, any players within the Curse’s effective radius were unable to use any of their spells. They could not even use the tools they had inside their bags. To put it simply, players could only participate in melee combat.

The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion had obviously prepared these Curses as a countermeasure for large-scale destruction spells and NPCs.

“Blood Dragon, lead some elites to pin down the patrolling guards and let Martial Dragon handle the rest,” Nine Dragons Emperor ordered. He then turned to look at Chaos Dancer, saying, “Let’s go; we’ll watch the show from upstairs.”

After receiving the command, Blood Dragon led the elite players, who were positioned at the rear line and remained unaffected by the Dark God, and charged towards the ten Level 150 patrolling guards.

At the same time, Martial Dragon shouted, “Kill! Annihilate Zero Wing! Leave not a single player alive!”

The War Dragon Legion suddenly charged into Zero Wing’s Residence. As for the other elite players, they were tasked to delay the Residence’s NPC guards.

When Silenced, an expert’s strength stepped into the spotlight.

When the War Dragon Legion’s 1,000 members charged into Zero Wing’s 10,000-plus elite members, they were like wolves among a flock of sheep. Immediately, the members of the War Dragon Legion started a slaughter.

At this point, Zero Wing possessed more than 400 Tier 1 players. It had more Tier 1 players than every Guild in White River City combined.

Naturally, all those capable of becoming Tier 1 classes at this stage of the game employed powerful techniques. Even if they were not yet experts, they were not far from that hurdle. Zero Wing’s members were also famed for having amazing equipment. Even if their techniques were lacking, they could make up the gap with their equipment.

In front of absolute strength, all manner of tricks were useless.

Even so, Zero Wing possessed far fewer experts than the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion. Not to mention, the members of the War Dragon Legion were experts who had undergone careful screening.

“Do you think we’re that easily bullied? All guards, to the lines!” Shi Feng commanded.

Suddenly, an additional two hundred Tier 1 NPCs emerged from the Guild Hall. Moreover, these Tier 1 NPCs were all melee classes.

Chapter 551: Fleeting Scene

The originally imposing Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion members were immediately shocked by the appearance of the two hundred Level 50 Tier 1 NPCs.

Nine Dragons Emperor, who watched the battle from afar, also wore a grim expression.

“Didn’t the reports say that they only had around 50-plus NPCs?” Nine Dragons Emperor turned to the intelligence agent beside him. Snapping, he yelled, “Just what have you all been doing?! You failed to report on two hundred Tier 1 NPCs! Tell me! What is going on here?!”

A single Level 50 Tier 1 NPC was very difficult to deal with. Each one required a team of elite members to pin down. Now that there was an additional two hundred, this would greatly affect his plans.

Suddenly, cold sweat appeared on the forehead of the reconnaissance unit’s leader. He was so frightened he could not utter a single word. Originally, he had tried to think of an excuse to save himself. However, he knew full well what kind of personality the Nine Dragons Emperor had. The more he tried to justify himself, the graver the consequences would be.

“Forget it. You won’t have to do your job anymore. Someone will replace you in the future.”

Nine Dragons Emperor waved his hand, having his subordinates escort the recon leader out of the building and dismissing him from the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion.

“Chaos, instruct the Blood Legion to send help. With the Blood Legion’s strength, they should be able to hold back two hundred NPCs.” At this moment, Nine Dragons couldn’t care less about how Zero Wing had managed to obtain all of these NPCs. He had no choice but to involve the originally inactive Blood Legion in the battle.

“Understood. This subordinate will lead them over now,” Chaos Dancer nodded and smiled.

A short moment later, the thousand-strong Blood Legion, which had been on standby, charged into Zero Wing’s Guild Residence.

—

Meanwhile, the various large Guilds watching the battle from afar were also shocked by the sudden change.

“Sure enough, Zero Wing is quite capable. With so many Tier 1 NPCs, even the Blood Legion will not be able to hold them off for long. After all, each Level 50 Tier 1 NPC is the equivalent of a Level 50 Special Elite!” Galaxy Past sighed.

If any other first-rate Guild stood in the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s place right now, they would have no chance against Zero Wing.

Particularly, that large-scale Silencing spell the Pavilion had used before the battle began significantly restricted the NPCs’ combat power and had even sealed Zero Wing’s large-scale destruction spells. Zero Wing had lost all their advantages with just this single move.

—

Meanwhile, inside Zero Wing’s Residence, a melee battle had broken out. The scene in the Residence looked just like a battlefield from ancient times.

Currently, the magical classes, who boasted the highest power, could only fight using their staffs…

The magical classes in God’s Domain were different from other virtual reality games. They were not completely incapable of participating in melee combat, but they were not specialized in it. They possessed very few skills that could be used in a melee battle. In addition, their classes mainly focused on Intelligence and Vitality, making them even more inferior in melee combat.

At this moment, however, nobody could care less. Even the healers of either side fought each other, not to mention the other magical classes.

Compared to the one-on-one fights between the magical classes, the battles between the physical classes were intense.

Currently, none of them could use any skills or tools and had to rely solely on their combat techniques.

It was especially true for the War Dragon Legion. A majority of the War Dragon Legion members consisted of physical classes, and every one was an expert among experts. Normally, they were capable of soloing a Special Elite of the same level, and some were even capable of putting up a good fight against a Chieftain of the same level.

Elite players could become elites in the first place not solely because of their Levels being above average; it was more due to the fact that they could solo an Elite monster of the same level. Hence, they were called elite players. Meanwhile, in the eyes of God’s Domain’s ordinary players, experts were individuals capable of soloing a Special Elite of the same level.

As for top-tier experts, in the eyes of ordinary players, they were individuals who could contend with a Chieftain of the same level. Chieftains were normally Bosses in Party Dungeons.

Every member of the War Dragon Legion, at the barest minimum, was capable of confronting a Chieftain of the same level by themselves. Some were even capable of killing a Chieftain of the same level.

Having these experts deal with four or five elite players simultaneously was a trivial matter.

They might even be able to defeat four or five elite players without losing a single HP. It was just like how a Chieftain could easily defeat four or five Elite monsters.

In the blink of an eye, the 1,000 members of the War Dragon Legion had already killed close to 3,000 Zero Wing members without suffering even a single fatality.

If not for many of the War Dragon Legion’s members and the Blood Legion holding back the Tier 1 NPC guards, Zero Wing’s death count would have been much higher by now.

However, compared to the War Dragon Legion’s captain, Martial Dragon, these ordinary members of the War Dragon Legion were nothing.

Martial Dragon was like a silver storm. Everywhere he passed, a rain of blood would follow. When half a dozen elite members of Zero Wing dashed up to Martial Dragon, they were instantly struck by Martial Dragon’s bone-chilling and immeasurably heavy aura, their complexions turning pale and movements becoming extraordinarily sluggish. Immediately after, multiple red streaks of light weaved across their bodies, sending them flying into the air. In the next moment, blood poured out like a fountain from multiple wounds. When these elites returned to the ground, a piece of equipment dropped beside them. Their bodies were no longer capable of movement.

“The War Dragon Legion is truly frightening. There are many among them who are even stronger than I am. That Martial Dragon is especially impressive! If I fought him, I’m not confident that I could even block a handful of moves before he defeated me. It is no wonder why people are saying that the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s strength is the closest to a Super Guild. This Martial Dragon can indeed put up a fight against those old fellows,” Galaxy Past stated incredulously.

Super Guilds had not become such because of their massive financial prowess or their large army of experts. The true reason was those inhuman experts that stood at the very top of the virtual gaming world.

Martial Dragon had precisely the potential to become such an expert.

“I heard that Martial Dragon is a talent that only appears once every ten years in the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion. It seems that this was not an exaggeration.” Purple Eye watched Martial Dragon’s figure that resembled a god of war, awe and anticipation, as well as some hints of jealousy, filling her eyes.

To experts like herself, it was an instinct to revere the strong. At the same time, she also wished to challenge those powerhouses who stood at the summit.

Martial Dragon was someone who had already obtained the right to challenge such individuals, so how could she not be jealous?

Purple Eye even considered exchanging a few moves with Martial Dragon right this instant. Even though she knew she was no match for the man, the exchange would still benefit her immensely.

If an expert wished to improve themselves quickly, they could not just rely on self-research and experimenting. They needed to fight various other experts, using the experience to learn and improve their own shortcomings. Only then could they improve quickly.

While Purple Eye focused on Martial Dragon’s every move, hoping to learn something through his actions, she suddenly noticed Martial Dragon’s gaze shift to another location, his eyes revealing both traces of shock and excitement.

Turning to look where Martial Dragon had shifted his attention to, Purple Eye similarly found herself shocked.

“Who is that person?” Purple Eye’s small mouth widened as if she had just seen a ghost.

She had just watched three War Dragon Legion members die instantly!.

That’s right. All three of them were killed in the blink of an eye. Moreover, they were the experts of the War Dragon Legion, not some noobs that could be found on the streets.

Against multiple of such experts, not even Purple Eye was confident that she could emerge victorious. Yet, that person had succeeded. Moreover, she had done so with ease.

After a moment of shock, Purple Eye was finally able to get a clear view of that player.

Possessing an alluring appearance, she wore form-fitting black leather armor that fully displayed the graceful and mesmerizing curves of her body. She also wielded two blood-red short swords that emitted dazzling flames. At this moment, it was as if she stood at the center of Zero Wing’s Residence.

“That is Fire Dance?” Purple Eye dared not even believe her own eyes right now.

Chapter 552: Enviable Zero Wing

Purple Eye repeatedly rubbed her eyes and did a double take at the alluring figure.

In the end, she was 100% sure she had not seen wrong.

“Why is this so different from what was reported?”

Purple Eye had read many reports on Zero Wing. The Star Alliance had gathered on every noteworthy expert in Zero Wing. There were also videos of every one of these noteworthy experts.

Fire Dance was one of the few most noteworthy experts in Zero Wing.

Hence, Purple Eye had a very good understanding of Fire Dance’s strength.

However, the data on Fire Dance had only noted her as a top-tier expert and that she was only barely able to contend with a Chieftain of the same level. Hence, Purple Eye had not placed any importance on Fire Dance at all. Only Aqua Rose could be considered a worthy foe for her; Fire Dance had not even ranked on her list.

Now, however…

Fire Dance had easily defeated three top-tier experts. How could this strength not shock Purple Eye?

It was especially true for that blade-like aura surrounding Fire Dance. Even while watching from such a distance, she could feel a sense of great danger with that aura. It felt as if Fire Dance could appear right before her at any time and launch an attack.

With such a dazzling and dangerous aura, it was difficult for Fire Dance not to attract attention. Not to mention, there were many experts present on the battlefield, and every one of them possessed the sensitivity of a mouse. These experts detected the source of the danger instantly.

Four of the War Dragon Legion members closest to Fire Dance charged towards Fire Dance simultaneously. As if they had planned this, they coordinated their actions perfectly, launching an attack from all sides.

Facing the encirclement of the four legionnaires, Fire Dance’s figure swayed slightly. In the next moment, only an afterimage remained in her place, denying the legionnaires their chance to strike. Immediately, she dashed towards the closest Level 27 Assassin, the two flame-red short swords in her hands transforming into multiple blades of light that struck like vipers.

As a member of the War Dragon Legion, the Assassin was no ordinary player. When faced with this sudden attack, instead of retreating, he advanced. The Assassin quickly saw through the trajectory of Fire Dance’s short swords; brandishing his own daggers, he deflected her attacks, one after another After deflecting the swords of light, the Assassin kicked at Fire Dance.

“You’re still too green!” the Assassin sneered.

Attacks were not limited to the player’s weapons. A player could use their body to attack as well.

However, most players had adopted the mindset that one could only launch melee attacks with their weapons, nothing else. Hence, they would normally focus their attention on an enemy’s weapons and hands. This unexpected kick right now would cost Fire Dance her life.

At this moment, however, a Berserker, who was a short distance away from the Assassin, shouted, “Little Six, behind you!”

Thanks to the warning, the Assassin called Little Six suddenly noticed that he had only kicked an afterimage.

“Behind?” Little Six suddenly felt his back grow cold. His many years of combat experience and acute senses alerted him that someone was behind him. Immediately, he tried to bend his body forward in an attempt to dodge the incoming attack.

However, Fire Dance did not use her short swords to attack at all. Instead, the instant she circled to the Assassin’s back, her slender leg kicked the Assassin’s thigh. Caught unprepared, the strike sent the Assassin spinning into the air. Immediately after, Fire Dance swiped her blade across the Assassin’s throat. Overall, her actions were simple and direct with no wasted movement whatsoever. At this moment, she looked just like a veteran killer.

By the time the three other War Dragon Legion members caught up to Fire Dance, this Assassin had become a disembodied soul under Fire Dance’s swords.

Although the entire process seemed slow, in reality, everything had happened in the blink of an eye. In the time it took Fire Dance to steal the Assassin’s life, the legionnaires had only crossed a distance of ten yards.

When the three legionnaires arrived before the female player, they slid to a halt, their eyes locked onto Fire Dance’s seductive body. At this moment, they no longer dared to approach this charming, yet deadly Assassin casually.

—

“Purple, why haven’t I heard anything about this Fire Dance? She can actually slaughter three War Dragon Legion members so easily. Even now, facing four legionnaires simultaneously, she dealt with one of them swiftly. Could she be a new talent that some Super Guild has recently nurtured?” Galaxy Past asked, unable to help his shock.

As the Guild Leader of a first-rate Guild, he was very well-informed regarding the virtual gaming world. Even so, from the information he had received, there was no news about a character named Fire Dance. However, his knowledge of Super Guilds’ activities was limited. As Purple Eye was someone who had come from a Super Guild, she should have a better understanding of Super Guilds.

Moreover, judging from how Fire Dance had defeated the members of the War Dragon Legion so efficiently, she definitely wasn’t someone new to gaming. Normally, only experts nurtured by Super Guilds possessed such outstanding skills.

“Guild Leader, although I, too, think that she might be a new talent from some Super Guild, from what I have seen of her techniques, I can say with certainty that no Super Guild has nurtured her. Her every move looks more like she is fighting a real battle. Her attacks do not resemble combat techniques used in a virtual reality game,” Purple Eye said, a bitter smile on her face.

“That makes sense.” Galaxy Past nodded, a hint of jealousy surfacing in his heart.

Why was he jealous?

It was because Fire Dance wasn’t the only person performing exceptionally on this battlefield. There was also the Guardian Knight Cola, the Assassin Flying Shadow, and many other members of Zero Wing. The combat power each of them displayed was extraordinary. Only, Fire Dance shone brightest of them all.

Zero Wing could not even be considered a second-rate Guild, yet it possessed so many experts. Hence, how could he not grow jealous?

—

“So what if Zero Wing has a lot of experts? So what if you can pick a fight with first-rate Guilds? Now that you’ve offended the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, today will be your last!” Watching the battle from afar, while Feng Xuanyang was envious, he also celebrated Zero Wing’s misfortune.

—

Inside Zero Wing’s Residence, although Fire Dance and the other core members of Zero Wing were wantonly slaughtering the members of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, at the end of the day, its enemy was still the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion. As the strongest legion in the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion, the War Dragon Legion would not be taken down by just a few experts. Immediately, a large number of experts began to circle Zero Wing’s few top-tier experts.

However, Fire Dance’s situation was slightly unique from the others. Only one person came forth to deal with her. This person’s appearance immediately attracted many people’s attention. He was none other than the War Dragon Legion’s Commander, Martial Dragon, the man that stood at the apex of the War Dragon Legion.

“You’re very skilled. Join the War Dragon Legion. I guarantee that you will immediately become one of its party leaders. After some training, you can even become the Vice-Commander,” Martial Dragon proposed as his gaze took in Fire Dance’s figure.

The members of the War Dragon Legion were stunned.

They had never thought that Martial Dragon’s evaluation of Fire Dance would be so high as to offer her the position of Vice-Commander.

The highest position in the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion belonged to the Pavilion Master, and following that was the Commander of the War Dragon Legion. As for the Vice-Commander, that person would definitely be the third most influential person within the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion. There were countless experts within the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion hoping to climb the ladder to become the Vice-Commander. And now, that position was already at Fire Dance’s fingertips.

“You sure are insincere. I am the Commander of Zero Wing’s core team. Why should I head over to your side to become a measly little Vice-Commander?” Fire Dance revealed a playful smile. She was not interested in the position of Vice-Commander in the slightest.

“It seems you still do not know what significance the position of Vice-Commander holds, nor do you know the significance of the position of Commander. Then, I’ll show you just what the Commander of the War Dragon Legion is!”

Martial Dragon was not at all angered by Fire Dance’s refusal. Unsheathing his blood-red greatsword, step after step, he slowly walked towards Fire Dance. With every step that Martial Dragon took, the aura surrounding his body grew stronger.

The instant Martial Dragon reached ten yards away from Fire Dance, the latter almost retreated several steps instinctually, increasing the distance between them. At this moment, Fire Dance’s expression had become extraordinarily grim, as if she were greeting a great enemy.

“Oh? Sure enough, I wasn’t mistaken. You are able to see it,” Martial Dragon laughed, becoming more satisfied with Fire Dance.

Chapter 553: tier Equipment

“How about it? This should be sufficient to convince you to join the War Dragon Legion, right?” Martial Dragon asked once again.

This time, instead of replying, Fire Dance quietly stared Martial Dragon.

Just what kind of monster is this person? Why did I feel that death was right before me when he was still ten yards away? After undergoing special training for a time, Fire Dance’s strength had undergone a qualitative improvement. Lei Bao’s training had especially helped her improve her control over her own body. Her senses had become far more sensitive as well.

Meanwhile, as Fire Dance stared Martial Dragon, she felt as if she stood before a towering mountain.

Particularly, when Martial Dragon was only ten yards away from her, it felt like that towering mountain had instantly appeared above her and physically pressed down on her. At that very instant, she felt as if her life was no longer under her control.

This feeling was different from the pressure she normally felt when facing a powerful enemy. It felt as if everything within a 10-yard radius of Martial Dragon was completely under the Berserker’s control.

Fire Dance could not believe it.

She could not figure out just how Martial Dragon had achieved such a feat.

Martial Dragon was clearly a Berserker. Aside from a few specific Skills, a Berserker’s normal attack range was limited to five or six yards. Moreover, the Dark God’s Descent had silenced everyone, and none of them could use any Skills. Yet, Martial Dragon had an attack range of ten yards and could even inflict a feeling of impending doom.

Even Fire Dance began to wonder if she was hallucinating due to her fatigue from her recent training. However, ever since she had started playing God’s Domain, her senses had not led her astray, so how could she possibly be mistaken now?

Hence, Fire Dance immediately retreated from Martial Dragon.

However, dragging on this fight was not a solution. After giving it some thought, Fire Dance gritted her teeth as she prepared to test herself against Martial Dragon.

In the next moment, Fire Dance transformed into a black shadow as she dashed towards Martial Dragon.

In terms of Attributes, Fire Dance was confident that she was superior to Martial Dragon for no reason other than the Tier 1 Set Equipment for Assassins, the Dark Melody Set Equipment, that Shi Feng had given her. After equipping this set, not only had her Attributes received a massive boost, but she was also able to display her combat power more efficiently.

In front of absolute strength, all manner of trickery was useless.

Regarding techniques, Fire Dance and the others had already improved significantly due to Lei Bao and Shi Feng’s training. They could be considered super-first-rate experts. In actual combat, they were definitely superior to the ordinary members of the War Dragon Legion. They might not be able to solo a Chieftain of the same level, but they could hold their ground against one for a relatively long time. After factoring in the Tier 1 Set Equipment and their top-tier Dark-Gold Weapons, they could easily solo a Chieftain of the same level. They could even challenge a Lord.

After all, a Tier 1 Set Equipment was only inferior to an Epic Set Equipment. The Attribute increase it provided was no small matter. Furthermore, every one of them had equipped three Intermediate Mana Armor Kits. In terms of Attributes, they completely overwhelmed the War Dragon Legion’s ordinary members.

Even against the Commander of the War Dragon Legion, Martial Dragon, this was the case.

The instant Fire Dance reached the 10-yard range, she turned her feet slightly, and suddenly, she split into two identical figures. It was practically impossible to tell which woman was real. The two figures then proceeded to attack Martial Dragon separately. Any ordinary player would be caught off guard and fail to react if their enemy suddenly doubled. Even an expert would hesitate. In addition, Fire Dance was very skilled. There were almost no excess movements in her attack. With lightning speed, the two Truefire Blades in Fire Dance’s hands flew towards Martial Dragon’s vital point and blindspot.

The various large Guilds watching the fight from afar were momentarily stupefied.

Fire Dance’s speed and ferocity were unstoppable. Their eyes could not even keep up with her.

Even an expert would be finished!

However, the instant before the Truefire Blades struck Martial Dragon, a red streak flashed, deflecting both of Fire Dance’s attacks. At the same time, the resulting impact forced Fire Dance into a retreat.

Is he even a Berserker? How can he draw his sword so fast? Fire Dance was forced to retreat three steps before she stabilized her body. At this moment, however, both of her hands were numb.

Berserkers were famed for their Strength, so Fire Dance did not find it surprising that Martial Dragon’s counterattack had repulsed her. However, she was an Assassin, a class that was famed for its speed. She had clearly struck first, yet Martial Dragon still managed to block her attacks.

“This Fire Dance is not bad at all. Unfortunately, the gap between her and Martial Dragon is immense. It is so wide that even she hasn’t realized its extent.” Watching the fight from afar, Nine Dragons Emperor revealed a faint smile.

“Pavilion Master, how could you possibly compare that little girl to Martial Dragon? It is impressive that this little girl possesses such skill at such a young age. If she joins the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, her future will be limitless. In a few years, she might even become a second Martial Dragon.” The old man serving Nine Dragons Emperor similarly smiled.

Martial Dragon was one of the strongest combatants that the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion had to offer. He was also a rare talent that only appeared once a decade.

The virtual gaming world changed by the day, and every year, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion would recruit a large number of players with potential. Meanwhile, the fact that Martial Dragon was known as a genius that only appeared once every ten years in the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion showed just how much talent he possessed. How could a little girl, who had never been nurtured by a Super Guild, possibly compete with such an individual?

Before, although it seemed as though Martial Dragon’s block had been extremely fast, in reality, that was not the case. It was only because Fire Dance had failed to notice Martial Dragon taking half a step backward. And it was precisely this distance that had given Martial Dragon’s greatsword sufficient time to catch up to Fire Dance’s short swords.

The subtlety this half-step contained was the difference between Fire Dance and Martial Dragon.

Before Fire Dance could recall how Martial Dragon had managed to counterattack…

Martial Dragon suddenly moved.

The instant he moved, Fire Dance focused all of her attention on the Berserker’s body.

Martial Dragon’s movements were very fast and polished. However, this speed was slower than Fire Dance’s reactions. In an instant, Fire Dance predicted the Berserker’s attack route and prepared to counterattack.

Since my Strength is not a match for him, I’ll use speed to face him. Through the previous exchange, Fire Dance had discovered her advantages and disadvantages against this opponent. Assassins possessed extremely high Agility. Hence, regarding Movement Speed, they were leaps and bounds above Berserkers. With that in mind, Fire Dance planned to fight a moving battle with Martial Dragon.

Fire Dance instantly dodged the attack from Martial Dragon’s greatsword. She then side-stepped and sent an strike at the Berserker’s neck.

Evade. Counterattack.

It was a simple attack pattern. However, Fire Dance had completed both steps almost simultaneously.

Just as Fire Dance considered following up her counterattack with another attack, her complexion suddenly paled as she felt that something was off. When her counterattack landed, she had not felt her blade slice flesh.

Unfortunately, it was too late to react.

Martial Dragon, who stood proudly before Fire Dance, had raised his blood-red greatsword and swung it down. A red blade of light flashed towards Fire Dance. The immense wind pressure generated by Martial Dragon’s greatsword rolled up a cloud of dust along with a splatter of fresh blood.

In the next moment, Fire Dance flew back, her HP rapidly falling.

Fortunately, Fire Dance had a Tier 1 Set Equipment and three Intermediate Mana Armor Kits. In total, she had over 6,000 HP, even with her high Defense. Although Martial Dragon possessed frightening Strength, he could not kill Fire Dance with one hit; he could only reduce her HP by half.

Such powerful equipment! Martial Dragon was somewhat surprised when he saw Fire Dance still standing. However, he quickly discerned the reason why he was unable to kill the Assassin with a single hit.

Equipment capable of allowing an Assassin to survive one of his strikes definitely possessed powerful Attributes. At this moment, even Martial Dragon envied Fire Dance.

Even Nine Dragons Emperor, who watched the battle from afar, glared at Fire Dance enviously.

“It really is a wonder how you people from Zero Wing managed to obtain such exaggerated equipment. However, although your equipment is excellent, it will only prolong your suffering!”

Saying so, Martial Dragon advanced once more, swinging his greatsword towards Fire Dance, who had only barely recovered from her fall.

Just as the red blade of light was about to strike the Assassin…

“Who?” Martial Dragon’s hands suddenly froze as his gaze quickly swept through his surroundings.

“An expert who has awakened a Domain is actually bullying a young woman who has yet to even enter the Refinement Realm. Aren’t you ashamed?”

Chapter 554: Overwhelming Attributes

Although this new voice was not loud, Martial Dragon’s sharp gaze immediately locked onto its origin.

In the direction Martial Dragon was looking at, a plain-looking man in armor slowly emerged the warring crowd.

Despite so many players focusing on killing each other, nobody had bothered to attack this man. It was as if none of these people had noticed him. Everyone was still focused on dealing with their own opponents.

Only when this man’s black sword pierced through the backs of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s elites, did these elites notice the man’s existence. By then, however, it was too late.

Since the war had begun, nobody had noticed that this ordinary-looking man had killed many War Dragon legionnaires and Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion elites. He was practically a god of silent death.

“One-hit Asura!” Surprise and excitement filled Martial Dragon’s eyes as they landed on Shi Feng. “Sure enough, your reputation is well deserved. You really do possess some ability.”

A technique that could allow one to move unnoticed was no trivial matter.

The concept might sound very simple, but when it came to its realization, not many could achieve it. This required a combination of special breathing techniques and footwork. Not to mention, Shi Feng even wielded this technique with such ease.

Despite having met many experts in the past, Martial Dragon had never encountered one capable of such a technique.

One could say that such a technique was extremely convenient in a group battle.

Since this technique could allow a player to avoid attention, then it could naturally be used in reverse as well, forcing others to focus on oneself.

Martial Dragon had originally intended to finish off Fire Dance with his last attack. However, due to that sudden surge of killing intent from Shi Feng, Martial Dragon felt as if someone had suddenly appeared behind him. Martial Dragon had no choice but to halt his attack in order to respond to the new enemy, allowing Fire Dance to escape with her life as a result.

“Fire Dance, go deal with someone else. Leave him to me.” Shi Feng sent Fire Dance a private message.

“Guild Leader, be careful.” Fire Dance nodded. Although Fire Dance was reluctant, she turned and moved to deal with other enemies.

Martial Dragon glanced at Fire Dance’s departing figure, not bothering to chase after the Assassin. Instead, he focused his attention on the slowly approaching Shi Feng.

—

“What’s going on with Martial Dragon?! Fire Dance was within his grasp; why didn’t he finish her off before moving on to deal with Black Flame?!” Feng Xuanyang, who watched the fight from afar, shouted with frustration and confusion.

His hatred for Zero Wing ran deep, and he wanted nothing more than to kill Zero Wing’s upper managers hundreds of times. If not for Zero Wing, he would not have encountered so many problems. He would have long since become the hidden overlord of Star-Moon Kingdom’s Eastern Region rather than ending up in his current dire state. He even had to obey the Seven Ghosts.

“Young Master Feng, Martial Dragon is not at fault here. It isn’t because Martial Dragon didn’t wish to finish her off, but because he couldn’t,” Third Ghost said, laughing bitterly. He then explained, “Fire Dance is much faster than Martial Dragon. If she focuses on running away, even Martial Dragon cannot catch her. Not to mention, Black Flame has currently locked onto Martial Dragon. If he attempts to chase after Fire Dance, he will reveal a gap in his defense, giving Black Flame an opportunity to attack. Black Flame’s combat power is astounding. He is far above Fire Dance. Moreover, that technique that makes others ignore his presence is also the perfect technique for assassinations.

“If Martial Dragon focused on Fire Dance, it is very likely that he would feel the bite of Black Flame’s sword. How could Martial Dragon possibly dare to focus on Fire Dance?”

“Then, are you saying that there is a possibility that Black Flame will defeat Martial Dragon?” Resentment boiled up in Feng Xuanyang as he listened to Third Ghost’s words.

In the beginning, Black Flame had been a nobody, insignificant, while he was a member of Underworld.

Black Flame had spoiled his good fortune many times, yet, the more he fought Black Flame, the more he discovered how helpless he was against the man. At this point, he could do practically nothing against Black Flame.

Chuckling, Third Ghost confidently said, “Martial Dragon is very powerful. I only said that Black Flame had a chance against Martial Dragon while he was distracted. However, if Martial Dragon focuses on his opponent, Black Flame has almost no chance of emerging victorious.”

“What do you mean?” Feng Xuanyang asked curiously.

“This is something I heard from Boss First Ghost, but it seems that Martial Dragon has already awakened his Domain. In a direct confrontation, it is simply impossible to defeat Martial Dragon. Even if we, the Seven Ghosts, worked together, it is unlikely that we could defeat Martial Dragon in a head-on clash.”

When Third Ghost uttered the word “Domain,” reverence appeared on his face.

Domain… Within a certain range, the wielder of the Domain could achieve absolute control. One could even count the number of raindrops that fell in their Domain.

Only by training one’s five senses to their extreme limits could one reach such a realm of control. Domains were practically a myth.

Normally, only the geniuses among geniuses had the possibility of grasping such a technique.

One could say that Domains were the dreams that countless experts sought.

—

While Third Ghost explained the situation, Martial Dragon and Shi Feng gradually approached each other.

Thirty yards… Twenty yards… Fifteen yards…

One after another, the upper managers of the various large Guilds witnessing this war shifted their gaze towards these two players.

One was Star-Moon Kingdom’s number one expert, Black Flame, while the other was the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion’s top fighter, Martial Dragon. Both were peerless experts that could deter an army by themselves, so how could they possibly miss out on a battle between the two?

“Guild Leader, who do you think will win?” Purple Eye asked.

Although she was a top-tier expert herself, she had no idea what the outcome of this battle would be as she had never witnessed either of the two fight with their full power.

“I suspect Martial Dragon will win. The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion is a super-first-rate Guild. Moreover, you should have seen the strength Martial Dragon displayed a moment ago. That’s a Domain!” Envy and admiration filled Galaxy Past’s gaze as he looked at Martial Dragon. “Rumor has it that Martial Dragon qualifies to compete with those old monsters, and it would seem that those rumors are true. I wonder when I will be able to set foot on that stage as well.”

Purple Eye nodded in agreement.

In reality, she really hoped that Black Flame would emerge victorious. After all, there had yet to be a single first-rate Guild daring enough to provoke the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, yet, Black Flame had done just that. One could not help but admire the man.

Now, he even faced off against a combat genius like Martial Dragon.

Unfortunately, Black Flame had yet to reach that stage. Moreover, the difference in the number of experts between Zero Wing and the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was simply too huge. There was no room for Zero Wing to resist.

—

When there was only a distance of ten yards, Shi Feng suddenly stopped.

“Why aren’t you advancing?” Martial Dragon stood proudly, his gaze fixed on Shi Feng. With a disdainful look, he asked, “Or do you intend to run away?”

Shi Feng remained silent, paying no heed to Martial Dragon’s provocation.

“Since you aren’t going to come to me, I’ll go to you!” Martial Dragon brandished his greatsword and dashed towards Shi Feng like a fierce tiger, his body carrying an overwhelming momentum that pressed down on Shi Feng.

Yet, Shi Feng remained motionless as he welcomed Martial Dragon’s attack.

Martial Dragon took no time at all to cross the distance of ten yards.

Arriving before Shi Feng, Martial Dragon swung his blood-red greatsword, the weapon transforming into a streak of red light as it slashed towards its target. Martial Dragon’s attack was both simple and crude.

At this time, Shi Feng, who had made no effort whatsoever to dodge the oncoming attack, finally moved, the Abyssal Blade in his hand transforming into a streak of light as it met Martial Dragon’s greatsword.

Boom!

When the two swords clashed, a crisp low-pitched sound echoed throughout the Zero Wing Residence.

The pure exchange of blows between the two powerhouses caused even the pavement to crack and shatter beneath their feet.

Martial Dragon was abruptly forced to retreat by five steps, the numbness in his arms spreading to his scalp. Martial Dragon then shifted his gaze to Shi Feng, and what he saw left him stupefied.

Shi Feng stood steady in his original position like an immovable mountain.

The difference in their Strengths was obvious.

Chapter 555: Winner and Loser

Black Flame pushed Martial Dragon back!

Silence!

Every Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion member within Zero Wing’s Residence was dumbfounded!

Meanwhile, the players watching from afar were similarly rendered speechless, their minds repeatedly playing that scene from before.

Although neither side had used any profound techniques and had only exchanged a straightforward blow, it was precisely this simplicity that allowed everyone to see the difference between the two very clearly.

Shi Feng’s Attributes were absolutely mind-blowing.

“Shit! Just what kind of equipment is Black Flame wearing?!” Feng Xuanyang’s eyes nearly popped out of their sockets at this scene.

Martial Dragon was a Level 28 Berserker. Moreover, the majority of his equipment was Level 25 Dark-Gold Equipment. The weapon he wielded was even one of indiscernible quality, but judging from its appearance, it should certainly be above Dark-Gold rank. This equipment composition could definitely be among the very best in God’s Domain. Even if Black Flame were fully geared in Dark-Gold Equipment, he would not be that much stronger than Martial Dragon.

Moreover, Black Flame was only a Swordsman, a very well-balanced class in terms of Attributes. Normally, a Swordsman’s Strength would be inferior to a Berserker’s, and his Agility would be inferior to an Assassin’s. Yet, now, Black Flame had actually managed to force back an apex Berserker like Martial Dragon with a single hit…

Just how outstanding was Black Flame’s equipment to pull off such a feat?

At this moment, Nine Dragons Emperor, who was leisurely watching the battle from afar, had an expression of immense joy on his face, his eyes fully focused on Shi Feng—as if he had just seen a peerless beauty.

Although Nine Dragons Emperor was indeed surprised at seeing Martial Dragon forced into a retreat, he was much more delighted at discovering the peerless equipment that made such a feat possible.

“Uncle Chen, order the ones below to obtain Black Flame’s equipment!” Nine Dragons Emperor instructed the old man beside him, his eyes shining brightly.

“Understood!” The old man addressed as Uncle Chen immediately made a bow and left his position.

A short moment later, the old man arrived with quick steps at the balcony of the private room, then abruptly shouted, “War Dragon Legion, listen up! Plunder every piece of equipment on Black Flame’s body and leave nothing behind!”

Although the old man was quite aged, his voice was extraordinarily loud when he shouted. Practically everyone in the neighborhood had heard him.

“Is the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion stupid? Didn’t they see how Black Flame repulsed Martial Dragon in a single hit? Who could possibly kill him and plunder his equipment? Also, even if they plan on plundering someone’s equipment, there shouldn’t be a need to announce it publicly like that, right?” some ordinary players spectating from the sidelines ridiculed.

When the members of Zero Wing heard the old man’s words, they nearly spat out blood in anger.

The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was completely looking down on them.

For a time, Zero Wing’s members fought with even greater ferocity.

Although the spectating ordinary players made fun of Nine Dragons Emperor’s foolishness, none of the upper managers of other first-rate Guilds were laughing.

They knew full well just how powerful the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was.

Despite the currently brief duration of the battle, the death toll was already extremely frightening.

The battlefield, which initially had nearly 30,000 players, now had less than 20,000 players remaining. The majority of the survivors also belonged to the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion. Even the War Dragon Legion had over 800 members still alive. Overall, the Pavilion’s losses were light. In contrast, Zero Wing’s side…

Things were just terrible on this side. Many elite members had died, and only two hundred or so Tier 1 players remained; Zero Wing had lost nearly half of its main combat power. If not for the Tier 1 NPCs, Zero Wing’s situation would be much uglier.

The gap between the two Guilds was evident at a single glance. They simply could not be compared to each other.

Black Flame repulsing Martial Dragon?

What was there to celebrate?

“These people really think Black Flame has a chance of winning!” Third Ghost sneered as he looked at the distant spectating ordinary players.

That was the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion Zero Wing was going up against, a super-first-rate Guild in the virtual gaming world. Moreover, the Pavilion had even sent out its War Dragon Legion this time around. Zero Wing had no chance of victory at all.

Moreover, Martial Dragon was a peerless expert who had grasped a Domain.

Although Black Flame had the advantage in Attributes, the gap was not so great that it was impassable.

Any expert would be able to discern this point very clearly.

Hence, Nine Dragons Emperor did not take Black Flame seriously at all and was fully intent on obtaining the Swordsman’s equipment.

—

Inside Zero Wing’s Residence, Martial Dragon and Shi Feng had already exchanged moves dozens of times.

Every time Shi Feng attacked, he forced Martial Dragon into a retreat, chipping at Martial Dragon’s HP with each exchange. At this moment, Martial Dragon’s HP was down to around 90%.

However, Shi Feng was not particularly happy about this situation, neither was he angry about Nine Dragons Emperor’s plan to plunder all his equipment. He only felt helpless.

Although Shi Feng succeeded in suppressing Martial Dragon with his Attributes, the Berserker was, after all, an expert who had grasped a Domain. Since Martial Dragon knew that he could not win using brute force, he had gone with a softer approach to neutralize Shi Feng’s attacks. Negating Shi Feng’s power was practically impossible for ordinary experts. After all, Shi Feng was an expert who had already set foot in the Flowing Water Realm.

If one wanted to negate Shi Feng’s power, they required inhuman levels of precision and confidence. The fact that Martial Dragon could achieve such a feat was all due to his Domain.

Of course, while Shi Feng was helpless against Martial Dragon right now, the same could be said for the Berserker. After all, Shi Feng could see through his attack trajectories; whenever Martial Dragon tried attacking Shi Feng, the latter would always take the appropriate defensive measures and force the exchange into a frontal clash between weapons.

In a frontal clash, the side with lower Strength would naturally receive damage and lose HP. Hence, Martial Dragon could only buy time.

However, Martial Dragon was in no rush. Zero Wing was vulnerable. Fire Dance alone could not turn the situation around.

This was not an arena. There was no need for players to fight one-on-one. If three to five legionnaires were insufficient, they could simply increase that number. Even if Fire Dance had powerful Attributes, the War Dragon Legion could just treat her as a powerful Boss and slowly grind her to death.

“You are the first person who has lasted this long against me. Unfortunately, this match won’t go on for much longer,” Martial Dragon said ruefully as he glanced at his surroundings.

The number of Zero Wing members still alive was rapidly decreasing. After another ten minutes or so, this war would come to an end.

This outcome was all due to the difference in the number and quality of experts. Even with so many NPCs filling the gap, they were still far from enough.

“Indeed, this battle will not last much longer.” Shi Feng’s heart ached over this situation as well. The losses Zero Wing had suffered in this war was simply too massive. Yet, instead of revealing a dispirited expression, Shi Feng smiled, saying, “However, the victor in this war will still be us, Zero Wing!”

“Do you not see the situation your Guild is in right now?” Martial Dragon could not help but laugh when he heard Shi Feng’s words.

However, shortly after Martial Dragon had spoken, the Berserker’s expression suddenly turned grave.

“An ambush?”

Martial Dragon suddenly felt a killing intent that was even more intense than when Shi Feng had revealed himself. Martial Dragon promptly tried to put some distance between Shi Feng and himself. However, Shi Feng did not allow Martial Dragon to do so, sticking closely to the Berserker at all times.

In terms of speed, Martial Dragon was simply no match for Shi Feng.

Just as Martial Dragon faced Shi Feng’s barrage of attacks, the shadow of a figure suddenly appeared behind Martial Dragon.

“Scram!”

Martial Dragon had already been on his guard against this figure. Tightening his grip on his greatsword, he swung the weapon towards his back with all his might, the weapon itself transforming into a streak of red light. Under normal circumstances, this sudden attack definitely would have caught the player, who had appeared behind Martial Dragon, by surprise.

Dang!

However, this red blade of light was easily blocked.

“You are…” Martial Dragon finally managed to get a clear look at the ambusher and was stunned.

This man had gray hair and a tall, robust body that was significantly larger than an ordinary person’s. Also, this man was not a player but an NPC.

Although this NPC was only Level 40—lower than those Level 50 Tier 1 guards—the pressure Martial Dragon felt from him was even stronger than what he’d felt from a High Lord.

However, Martial Dragon had no time to ponder the identity of this NPC, because the moment this NPC swung his sword, over a dozen wind blades flew at Martial Dragon from all sides.

Only Shi Feng knew what this Skill was.

Tier 2 Sword Skill, Wind Roar!

This Skill could not be blocked and could only be dodged. But Martial Dragon no longer had time to dodge right now.

In the blink of an eye, multiple wind blades devoured Martial Dragon, his 6,000-plus HP instantly bottoming out with not a single point remaining.

The ambusher was none other than Shi Feng’s Personal Guard, Kite.

Only, at this moment, Kite had already recovered his original strength. No longer was he a Tier 1 Swordsman but a Tier 2 Sword Master, instead.

Chapter 556: Might of a Sword Master

“He actually died, just like that…”

“That’s Martial Dragon! How could someone possibly kill him with one hit?! When did that frightening NPC appear?!”

For a time, the upper managers of the various Guilds spectating the battle were stupefied.

“Commander!”

Martial Dragon’s abrupt death stopped the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion members’ rising momentum cold.

As the Commander of the War Dragon Legion, Martial Dragon had never died, not even once, ever since he entered God’s Domain. Not even Hell Mode Team Dungeons could end his life.

The elites of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion and the members of the War Dragon Legion all admired Martial Dragon greatly, using him as their role model.

One could say that Martial Dragon was the symbol of the War Dragon Legion, as well as the legion’s backbone.

Now that their backbone suddenly disappeared, even the members of the War Dragon Legion were dumbfounded.

They had never once thought that Martial Dragon would die. As if adding insult to injury, he was a casualty in a war of annihilation against a small Guild.

“That damnable Black Flame! He actually has another hidden trump card!” A chilling light flashed across Nine Dragons Emperor’s eyes as he glared at Shi Feng. “However, even if you have the help of a Level 40 Tier 2 NPC, you will all still perish today! Uncle Chen, head into the battlefield with Blood Dragon! Do not let Black Flame get away at all costs! The same goes for that Tier 2 NPC!”

Martial Dragon was renowned throughout the entire virtual gaming world. He was practically synonymous with the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion and was also the proof of the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion’s strength.

Yet, now, Martial Dragon had actually been killed in a war with a minor Guild like Zero Wing.

If news of this matter were to spread, the damage to the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s reputation would be severe.

At this moment, the only way to redeem the Pavilion’s reputation was to thoroughly consign Zero Wing to history and have everyone know what the consequences were for angering the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion.

Presently, Zero Wing had only a small number of members left alive. On the other hand, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion suffered only minimal losses among its main experts. Although a Tier 2 NPC was mighty, fortunately, it was just a Level 40 NPC—roughly equivalent to a Level 40 Lord. With the number of experts in the War Dragon Legion, they could easily defeat a Level 40 Lord.

“Understood!” The old man addressed as Uncle Chen bowed and departed.

From an outsider’s point of view, this Uncle Chen was only a butler of Nine Dragons Emperor. However, every upper manager in the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion knew that this old man with a head full of white hair was not just Nine Dragons Emperor’s butler. He was the third person to command the War Dragon Legion, Dust Dragon. However, this detail was something in the annals of history.

Currently, most people had long since forgotten that this elderly man named Uncle Chen was the almighty Dust Dragon of the past.

When the War Dragon Legion received the command, they immediately went into a frenzy. They no longer bothered targeting the elites of Zero Wing. Instead, hundreds of them encircled Shi Feng and Kite.

Every one of these hundreds of experts was Level 27 or above, and they all wore top-tier equipment. Moreover, at this Level, most players had at least some equipment with the Ignore Levels Attribute. In other words, members of the War Dragon Legion would not have to worry about level suppression when fighting Kite, a Level 40 NPC.

Normally, the War Dragon Legion members could trounce a Level 40 Field Lord with just a single 20-man team. Meanwhile, hundreds of them were present right now. Blood Dragon, a Branch Leader of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, and Dust Dragon, a former Commander of the War Dragon Legion, were even leading the legionnaires personally. Even if the enemy was a Level 40 High Lord, they could still defeat it.

“Hahaha! Black Flame is doomed for sure this time! Rather than dealing a blow to the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s momentum, he has instead angered the Pavilion even more!” Feng Xuanyang could not help but chortle when he saw this scene.

“Not only is he surrounded by so many top-tier experts, but he also can’t use any of his Skills. If we Seven Ghosts were in such a situation, we would still face annihilation even if all of us worked together,” Third Ghost commented.

Everyone had originally been fearful of Martial Dragon already. Now that they saw this scene…

They finally realized just how powerful the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was.

“The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s true strength is simply too powerful. It really isn’t something we first-rate Guilds can hope to contend with. It seems that I’ll have to make some changes to our future development plans.”

Galaxy Past felt helpless as he looked at the tightly packed members of the War Dragon Legion.

Top-tier experts were individuals that large Guilds would only rarely encounter. Yet, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion actually managed to dispatch a thousand of them.

With such power, who could possibly oppose the Pavilion?

Galaxy Past had even visualized the Star Alliance being in Zero Wing’s place right now.

In the end, he concluded that the Star Alliance would not fare any better than Zero Wing. In other words, not to mention the Phoenix Pavilion of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, just the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion alone was enough to annihilate the Star Alliance.

The gap between a first-rate Guild and a super-first-rate Guild was simply hopeless…

“Guild Leader, look! Black Flame has begun taking action!” Purple Eye, who was standing beside Galaxy Past, recalled him to the battle at hand.

Zero Wing’s destruction was inevitable. The only thing worth watching now was seeing how many experts of the War Dragon Legion Black Flame would manage to kill.

As for escaping?

That was practically impossible. As the Guild Leader, if Black Flame abandoned his own Guild Residence to escape, he would only turn himself into a laughingstock. His only option now was to fight till the bitter end.

Either he survived by forcing his enemies to retreat, or he perished along with his Guild Residence. There was no third option.

Without hesitation, Shi Feng, along with Kite, dashed directly towards the oncoming army of experts. They did not bother taking a roundabout route to conduct guerrilla warfare.

“Has this Black Flame lost his mind?” Galaxy Past watched Shi Feng’s movement patterns with utter bewilderment.

When the enemy had the advantage in numbers, one would normally apply hit-and-run tactics to avoid letting their enemies completely surround them. Applying such guerrilla tactics would yield tremendous results especially when one’s combat power was significantly superior to the enemies’.

However, Shi Feng had actually taken the initiative to charge into the enemy’s encirclement. He was simply trying to get himself killed!

“Since you wish to die, let me grant you that wish!”

Blood Dragon revealed a sinister sneer. Back when the Curse Scrolls were used, he had been outside the effective radius of Dark God’s Descent. Hence, when Blood Dragon was only thirty yards away from Shi Feng, he immediately activated Charge. He then raised his sword, activating Heavy Chop as he swung the weapon at Shi Feng.

Meanwhile, Dust Dragon, who was a short distance away, had similarly used Charge. He had timed his Skill perfectly so that he would arrive just a moment later than Blood Dragon, preventing Shi Feng from blocking both of their attacks.

In God’s Domain, although a person might seem old, their bodies in the game remained strong. Hence, there was not much of a difference between Dust Dragon’s current combat power and his combat power back when he was still in his prime. On the contrary, his combat experience far surpassed the ordinary person’s. He was like a living fossil of the virtual gaming world. He had long since reached the realm of perfection in the control and usage of techniques.

“Looking to die?” Shi Feng could not help but smile when he looked at the two people swiftly approaching him.

Kite was no ordinary NPC. He was a Dark-Gold ranked Personal Guard, and he could easily beat up a player of the same Level and Tier.

When Kite was still a Tier 1 Swordsman, he was already capable of contending against a High Lord of the same Level.

Contending against higher Levels might be a different story, but with his strength back to that of a Tier 2 Sword Master, he could even go toe-to-toe with a Level 40 Great Lord now.

What did a Level 40 Great Lord hint at?

The Final Boss of a Level 20, 100-man Hell Mode Team Dungeon was only a Level 20 Great Lord. But there had yet to be a single person daring enough to go challenge such a monster even until now.

Out in the fields, a Level 40 Great Lord would annihilate a 1,000-man team of Level 40 players, not to mention a 100-man team.

Meanwhile, the War Dragon Legion consisted of only several hundred players. Moreover, none of them was even close to reaching Level 40 yet. They also did not possess any Level 40 top-tier equipment. Yet, they still dared to come charging over…

Their recklessness left Shi Feng speechless.

If he truly had to describe them, he would say that they were “remarkably courageous”!

The moment Blood Dragon and Dust Dragon came rushing over, Kite moved in front of Shi Feng. The Sword Master then swung his sword down at the two aggressors. Instantly, dozens of wind blades struck both Blood Dragon and Dust Dragon from all sides. In the blink of an eye, both Berserkers were lying on the ground, already dead.

Chapter 557: Qualifications to Become an Overlord

“What kind of NPC is this?”

Nine Dragons Emperor shot up from his seat the instant he saw Blood Dragon and Dust Dragon instant-killed, an expression of shock plastered over his face.

Nobody had a better understanding than he did of Blood Dragon’s and Dust Dragon’s strengths.

Although the two of them were not a match for Martial Dragon, no one was likely to be a match for them when the two of them were working together.

Even a Level 40 High Lord would not be able to kill both of them in a single strike.

The only possibility was that this NPC was too powerful—so powerful that players simply had no way of resisting him.

“Kite, kill them all! Leave none alive!” Shi Feng no longer held back. He immediately commanded Kite to begin his slaughter.

In the past, Kite was titled the Windbreaker.

In the entire God’s Domain, very few Personal Guards possessed a title. The title itself, though, was only a title; it did not provide any bonus Attributes or contribute to the improvement of the Personal Guard’s combat power.

However, having a title signified that an NPC was not an ordinary class but a hidden class.

Some hidden classes were weak, while some were strong. Windbreaker definitely ranked within the Peak Classes. In addition, as a Personal Guard, Kite himself also possessed frightening Growth Potential. Hence, Kite had become practically invincible when going up against an enemy of the same Level and Tier in the past.

Back in the days, the Lifestyle player that owned Kite had relied on this Personal Guard to become an existence that nobody in God’s Domain could ignore. Even Super Guilds did not wish to offend this Lifestyle player casually.

What about now?

Back then, even a Lifestyle player had managed to nurture Kite into a Tier 5 Sword Saint capable of overwhelming any Tier 5 player or NPC. Meanwhile, in this life, Shi Feng was the one nurturing Kite. Not only could Shi Feng provide greater financial support, but Kite’s current Growth Potential was also higher than what he had in the past. Now, dealing with players of a lower Level and Tier was practically child’s play to Kite.

After Kite received Shi Feng’s command, he transformed into a fierce gale that swept across the members of the War Dragon Legion.

The Shield Warriors and Guardian Knights of the War Dragon Legion hurriedly dashed to the forefront, attempting to block Kite’s assault.

Unfortunately for them, Kite was just too fast. With a simple leap, he arrived behind the Shield Warriors and Guardian Knights. He then used a Tier 2 Skill, Wind Ferret, sending all players within thirty yards flying up into the air. In the next moment, Kite began brandishing his swords, shooting hundreds of wind blades outwards like a lotus flower that pierced the bodies of the players suspended in midair.

Even though these players were Shield Warriors and Guardian Knights, their HPs still fell by the thousands. In the blink of an eye, their 6,000 or 7,000 HPs bottomed out, though a fortunate few managed to survive Kite’s barrage of attacks. However, as they were too high up in the air, when they landed on the ground, the fall took away their last strand of HP…

In just a moment, the War Dragon Legion had lost dozens of members.

Seeing this scene where players fell to the ground like dumplings, one after another, everyone was utterly stupefied.

Nobody had imagined that a Tier 2 NPC could actually be this mighty. Moreover, aside from him being strong, even Kite’s combat techniques were more powerful than those of many experts.

The Windbreaker is indeed amazing. It is no wonder he was able to deal with so many Tier 5 players as if they were little children in the past. Only Tier 6 God-ranked players were able to suppress him. Shi Feng was delighted with Kite’s performance.

When it came to techniques, there were indeed players that could surpass Kite. Unfortunately, the precondition for this victory was that said player was similar to Martial Dragon, a peerless expert who had achieved 100% control over his own body. However, even in the entire God’s Domain, such experts were as rare as a phoenix’s feather.

Moreover, even if a player was superior to Kite in terms of combat techniques, as an NPC, Kite could completely overwhelm any player when it came to Attributes. In front of absolute strength, all manner of trickery was useless. In the end, the amount of strength a player could display through their techniques was limited.

It was just like how Shi Feng, despite his techniques being inferior to Martial Dragon’s, was able to suppress the Berserker by relying on his Attributes. Only, in Kite’s case, the NPC could trounce Martial Dragon, because Kite’s Attributes were leaps and bounds above even Shi Feng’s. Such great Strength was already beyond Martial Dragon’s ability to withstand. Hence, Kite was able to kill Martial Dragon easily while Shi Feng could not.

In just a moment, Zero Wing had made a complete comeback from their previously disadvantaged situation.

To the War Dragon Legion, which had a member count of only 1,000, having more than a hundred of its experts killed was a significant loss. Most importantly, its casualties continued to increase.

Despite Nine Dragons Emperor’s attempts to pin down Kite by sending more elite players and experts, all his efforts were in vain.

With Kite’s speed, Strength, and techniques, any player that had yet to attain their Tier 2 class would not even have the qualifications to delay him. Otherwise, the many first-rate Guilds and Super Guilds in the past would not have feared him so much.

—

Seeing how Kite was casually slaughtering the members of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, the spectating upper managers of the various large Guilds were dumbfounded.

“With such an NPC guarding their Guild Residence, no Guild is capable of threatening Zero Wing!” Galaxy Past muttered as he looked at Kite. He then shifted his gaze towards Shi Feng, who was leisurely observing the battle from the sidelines, his eyes filled with both admiration and envy.

Although the status of a first-rate Guild might seem preeminent, in reality, there was a massive gap between a first-rate Guild and a Super Guild. If the Star Alliance managed to anger a Super Guild in the future, a repeat of today’s scene was highly likely.

However, if the Star Alliance had an NPC like Kite guarding its Guild Residence, at that time, it would possess the qualifications to pick a fight with a Super Guild.

Although they still could not afford to provoke a Super Guild, they would no longer have to live in fear like they currently did.

As long as a Guild’s Residence remained, and as long as the Guild still possessed a large sum of funds and Coins, then it would be a cockroach that would not die.

In the virtual gaming world, it was not the powerful who were considered strong. Instead, it was those who managed to survive and was not afraid of any enemy that were deemed to be strong. After all, only by surviving would there be hope.

It was just like how those Super Guilds had managed to survive until now. In the past, there were far more powerful existences than these Super Guilds. Yet, in the end, didn’t they end up failing as well?

Meanwhile, although Zero Wing was still weak right now, it already possessed the qualifications to become an overlord in God’s Domain.

Hence, how could Galaxy Past not admire Shi Feng?

“Purple, once we return, immediately mobilize the entire Guild! Our Star Alliance needs an NPC like that as well!” Galaxy Past’s eyes were filled with desire as he looked at Kite.

“Mhm!” Purple Eye silently nodded in agreement. However, instead of looking at Kite, she was currently focused on Aqua Rose. At this moment, her eyes were filled with mixed feelings.

—

Time slowly passed by.

The battlefield grew more intense with each passing moment. Currently, only a small number of players from Zero Wing remained alive. As for the Guild’s most precious Tier 1 players, less than a hundred remained alive. This time, however, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was not having a good time, either.

Due to Kite’s appearance, coupled with Shi Feng silently helping out his Guildmates, the War Dragon Legion’s numbers fell sharply. Currently, less than 400 legionnaires remained alive…

“Retreat! All of you, retreat!” Nine Dragons Emperor sent a command to the members of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, no longer able to stomach this battle.

“Pavilion Master, Zero Wing is about to be destroyed. Are we really going to retreat right now?” Rage had long since overwhelmed many of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s upper managers fighting in the battlefield. The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s prestige and reputation were also at stake here. How could they possibly be willing to retreat at a time like this?

“I said retreat! Are you unable to understand that?!” Nine Dragons Emperor suddenly said in a low tone, his gloomy voice chilling even his surroundings.

Nine Dragons Emperor wanted to continue fighting this war as well.

He even wished he could personally step onto the battlefield. However, he was a Guild Leader. He needed to consider the bigger picture.

Although their side still seemed to possess the numerical advantage, in reality, they were already at a disadvantage. If this situation continued, instead of Zero Wing being destroyed, they would be the ones facing complete annihilation.

In order to cut their losses, they had no choice but to retreat right now.

“Understood!”

“Retreat!”

“All members, retreat!”

The members of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion could only sigh in dejection. Under the command of the upper managers, they swiftly withdrew from Zero Wing’s Guild Residence.