Chapter 558

Chapter 558: After the War

“Won!”

“We won!”

Everyone from Zero Wing was incomparably excited, and they all began cheering loudly one after another.

Throughout this entire war, nobody had expected them to win. Even the large Guilds watching from afar had long since made preparations to take advantage of Zero Wing’s misfortune.

Originally, other than Super Guilds, nobody else dared to oppose the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion. However, they had dared.

Moreover, they had even defeated the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion.

They had achieved a feat that no Guild had ever imagined was possible.

“The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was actually defeated, just like that…”

The various large Guilds spectating this battle fell silent.

Other than shock, everyone felt amazement.

Despite the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s overwhelming power, in the end, all those elite players and frightening top-tier experts suffered defeat at the hands of a single NPC guard.

“After we return, we must focus on developing our Guild’s guards.”

Galaxy Past had an excited expression on his face as he watched the retreating members of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion.

The true strength of a Super Guild was something no ordinary Guild could ever hope to comprehend. Only first-rate Guilds like them would know some secrets about Super Guilds.

Although the opponent Zero Wing had defeated this time was not a Super Guild, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s strength was already on a par with those Super Guilds’. Since Zero Wing could repel the attack of the Pavilion, it could naturally repel the attacks of Super Guilds as well.

Most likely, nobody in the entire God’s Domain had thought that…

The first Guild capable of going toe-to-toe with the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion would not be a first-rate Guild but a recently established Guild like Zero Wing, instead.

However, this was still not the most exciting part.

The most exciting part was that Zero Wing had shown everyone present the hope of contending against a Super Guild.

In virtual reality games, the result of a war between Guilds usually depended on players. However, God’s Domain was different. Here, NPC guards could also determine the outcome of a Guild War. In other words, the advantage a Super Guild possessed was no longer an insurmountable hurdle.

If a Guild’s players could not repel an attack, they could just fill the gap using NPCs.

At this moment, Galaxy Past wasn’t the only one planning to focus on nurturing his Guild’s NPC guards. The upper managers of the various large Guilds had also grasped this point. They all had the notion of developing their NPCs once they returned.

As long as their Guild Residences had an NPC like Kite protecting it, then their Guild Residences would be impregnable. That way, they could disregard those powerful Super Guilds. They could develop their Guilds however they pleased.

—

Although the members of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion were swiftly withdrawing, Shi Feng had no intention of letting them off the hook. Instead, he immediately expanded on his victory, killing as many as Pavilion members as he could.

Every player present was an elite or above. The quality of the equipment they wore on their bodies went without saying.

Each additional death was equivalent to obtaining another piece of good equipment.

During the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s withdrawal, Shi Feng and Kite managed to kill several hundred more players, obtaining a bountiful harvest—particularly of the Life Force points Shi Feng collected.

“Damn it!” Nine Dragons Emperor’s heart bled when he saw his Guild’s elites and the experts of the War Dragon Legion dying one after another. “Black Flame, just you wait! Sooner or later, I will definitely claim this debt! You won’t be as lucky the next time we meet!”

After the war ended, Zero Wing’s members also began collecting their spoils of war.

Both Guilds had suffered an immense death toll in this war. However, during the intense battle, nobody had the time to pick up loot. Hence, plenty of equipment littered the ground right now.

This sight stirred greed and jealousy in many of the spectating Guilds. However, not a single Guild player dared to steal some equipment for themselves. The same held true even for the Assassins who were in Stealth.

A large number of NPCs still stood guard near these drops, and everyone had already witnessed just how powerful these NPCs were. Naturally, nobody wanted to donate their own equipment to Zero Wing.

—

At the same time, word of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s defeat spread at the speed of light.

Practically all the discussions on the official forums mentioned this incident.

“It can’t be, right? The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion actually lost?”

“You must be joking!”

“The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion really lost. I have firsthand video documentation here, and you can have it for just 50 Credits!”

A majority of the players in God’s Domain was incredulous of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s defeat.

The Pavilion, which had remained unshakable all this time, had actually been defeated. It was a rout. Even the Pavilion’s most powerful War Dragon Legion had lost over half of its members. The damage the Pavilion had suffered this time was simply incalculable.

—

Star-Moon City, inside Ouroboros’s Guild Residence:

“Snow, Zero Wing actually won against the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, just like you guessed it would.” Zhao Yueru’s unblemished face was full of surprise when she received the latest news regarding the war between Zero Wing and the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion.

“There’s nothing surprising about this,” Gentle Snow said, a bright smile appearing on her face. “Black Flame is no fool. Moreover, he has never done anything he was not confident about. Since he dared to pick a fight with the Pavilion, he naturally had basis for his confidence. Only, I never imagined that the source of his confidence would be so powerful.”

“We’re in luck this time. Since we’re allies with Zero Wing, those Elders whom Cao Chenghua is planning to pull to his side will have to carefully reconsider their actions,” Zhao Yueru laughed.

Moments after Zhao Yueru said these words, the doors to the meeting room opened, and a few gorgeously dressed middle-aged men and women entered.

Seeing the arrival of these few people, Gentle Snow could not help but smile bitterly as she shook her head.

“Fate truly knows how to toy with people.”

These men and women were none other than Ouroboros’s few highly skilled and influential Elders. Normally, these Elders paid little heed to the matters of the Guild, focusing only on grinding, leveling up, and raiding Dungeons. Even Cao Chenghua dared not offend these Elders casually.

Previously, Gentle Snow had tried inviting these Elders for a discussion on some matters. However, they had simply ignored her overtures.

Now, without even requiring her invitation, these people had taken the initiative to come looking for her.

This situation left Gentle Snow speechless. Back then, she had only decided to become Zero Wing’s ally to repay her debt to Black Flame. Now, however, it would seem that she was growing even more beholden to him, instead.

“Guild Leader Snow, we truly apologize for before. The few of us have been busy raiding Dungeons all this time, so we failed to meet up with you. Now, however, we are already clear on the Guild’s situation. The few of us here have unanimously decided to support you fully. If Cao Chenghua dares to try to split up Ouroboros, he will have to go through us first before he can do so,” the leading Shield Warrior declared, chuckling.

Now that Zero Wing had defeated the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, a super-first-rate Guild, its fame and status in God’s Domain were naturally far different from before.

Prior to Zero Wing’s appearance, the upper managers of various large Guilds were secretly doing their best to forge connections with Super Guilds to increase their authority inside their own Guilds.

Many large Guilds had even taken the initiative to curry favor with Super Guilds to obtain the protection of these Super Guilds. That way, if other Guilds wanted to make a move on them, these Guilds would have to think twice before taking action against them. After all, nobody wished to incur the anger of a Super Guild.

Meanwhile, now that Zero Wing had defeated the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, the consequences were obvious.

In the future, Zero Wing might very well become another super-first-rate Guild.

When a man became powerful, those near him could ride on his coattails to success as well.

Since Gentle Snow was an ally of Zero Wing, that meant that Gentle Snow had the support of what amounted to a super-first-rate Guild. As long as one was not a fool, they would know which side they should choose.

—

White River City, Zero Wing’s Residence:

“Guild Leader, I’ve already tallied up the results of the war. Here are the statistics,” Aqua Rose said, a smile on her face as she handed over a list of data to Shi Feng.

“How could there be so many?! We’ve really made a fortune this time!” The corners of Shi Feng’s lips twitched slightly when he looked at the list.

Chapter 559: Growing Stronger

The number of equipment on the statistical list exceeded 20,000. Most of the equipment originally belonged to the Zero Wing members who had participated in the war, so those had to be returned. In addition, they had to take into account the reward for killing enemy players as well as death subsidies. However, even after deducting all the necessary expenses, they still had over 5,000 pieces of equipment remaining.

Initially, Shi Feng thought Zero Wing would only gain a slight profit from this war. After all, Zero Wing’s army of over 10,000 elites had practically suffered complete annihilation; only a few hundred elites remained alive at the end of the war. As for the Tier 1 core members, only several dozens survived.

The compensation for the losses of over 10,000 elite members and hundreds of core members was astronomical.

Having a surplus of more than 5,000 pieces of equipment surpassed Shi Feng’s expectations entirely.

“We are fortunate that the Pavilion members’ equipment is of excellent quality, unlike the previous battles we fought before when there were barely enough spoils of war to go around, even though our losses were not significant back then.” At this moment, Aqua Rose was overjoyed.

The Guilds they had fought in the past were much poorer compared to the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion. The enemy Guilds back then consisted mostly of ordinary players, with only a small number of elite players; the equipment they could drop was naturally of low quality. Bronze and Mysterious-Iron Equipment was considered top-tier goods for those Guilds. Now, however, the enemies they had killed were the elites and experts of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion. Naturally, the items they dropped were on an entirely different level in terms of quality.

The majority of the equipment worn by the Pavilion’s elite members was Level 20 Secret-Silver Equipment, with the weakest being Level 20 Mysterious-Iron Equipment, and the strongest being Level 20 Fine-Gold Equipment. As for the members of the War Dragon Legion, all the equipment they wore was Level 25, with the majority being Level 25 Fine-Gold Equipment, and the weakest being Level 25 Secret-Silver Equipment. A few legionnaires even had Level 25 Dark-Gold Equipment. Naturally, the items they dropped were astounding.

Currently, Level 20 Bronze Equipment was being sold for around 20 Silver. Even Mysterious-Iron Equipment sold for around 40 Silver only. However, the prices for Secret-Silver Equipment was a different story altogether.

With the difference of just one rank, the price increased from around 40 Silver straight up to around 90 Silver. If it were Secret-Silver Equipment meant for MTs, the price would go further, up to 1 Gold 20 Silver.

This disparity was mainly due to the sheer difficulty in obtaining Secret-Silver Equipment.

In Level 20, six-man Party Dungeons, even at Hell Mode, there was only a fixed chance for Secret-Silver Equipment to drop. Only ten-man Hell Mode Team Dungeons would drop Secret-Silver Equipment with 100% certainty, with a small chance of dropping Fine-Gold Equipment.

Most players in God’s Domain were just beginning to raid Level 20, ten-man Team Dungeons, and the number of teams that could raid Hell Mode was very low. With the tight supply of Level 20 Secret-Silver Equipment, it was only natural for prices to be a lot higher.

As for Level 20 Fine-Gold Equipment, its prices were even more inflated. Each piece of such equipment sold for at least four Gold. Normally, only 20-man Hell Mode Team Dungeons would drop Fine-Gold Equipment with 100% certainty. Meanwhile, there was only a fixed chance for one to drop in Hard Mode. Hence, Fine-Gold Equipment was much rarer, and its price much higher.

If Level 20 equipment was already like this, there was no need to mention Level 25 equipment.

For equipment, although an increase in one rank was equivalent to an increase in five Levels, Level 25 Secret-Silver Equipment was much more expensive than Level 20 Fine-Gold Equipment. At present, each piece sold for five Gold or more.

Moreover, the supply of Level 25 Secret-Silver Equipment on the market was extremely limited. People usually circulated such equipment within their own inner circles, and players would have to rely on their connections to purchase one.

As for Level 25 Fine-Gold Equipment, they were considered the best equipment currently available in God’s Domain. Setting aside the fact that nobody would sell such equipment in the first place, if there were some available for sale, the price would be at least fifteen Gold.

Currently, among the 5,000-plus pieces of equipment in Shi Feng’s hands, there were over 2,000 pieces of Level 20 Mysterious-Iron Equipment and over 2,000 pieces of Level 20 Secret-Silver Equipment. As for the remainder, over 600 pieces were Level 20 Fine-Gold Equipment, over 400 were Level 25 Secret-Silver Equipment, over 150 were Level 25 Fine-Gold Equipment, and a total of twelve pieces were Level 25 Dark-Gold Equipment.

If converted to Coins, all this equipment would be worth more than 10,000 Gold.

After fighting a single war, Zero Wing had made a pure profit of over 10,000 Gold. Any Guild would be celebrating after such a harvest. Not to mention, even if a Guild had 10,000 Gold, it would not be able to obtain so many pieces of equipment.

If a Guild wished to develop quickly, other than having experts leading its members, it was also essential to have equipment in the Guild’s Warehouse. The amount of equipment a Guild possessed determined the number of members it could sustain. Now that Shi Feng had received such a huge influx of equipment, he could definitely advance Zero Wing further, absorbing even more members into the Guild.

“Guild Leader, should I place the equipment into the Guild’s Warehouse?” Aqua Rose asked.

“Organize them and place the ones with good Attributes into the Guild’s Warehouse. Hand over the remainder to Melancholic for sale,” Shi Feng instructed after giving her question some thought.

A majority of the current players had already reached Level 20 or above. Those who hadn’t reached Level 20 were either new to God’s Domain, or just ordinary Lifestyle players.

Meanwhile, all the elite members in Zero Wing were Level 25 or above, whereas ordinary members were either Level 23 or Level 24. Hence, their demand for Level 20 equipment was not particularly high.

Level 20 equipment was currently considered mainstream equipment in God’s Domain. Its popularity just happened to be at its peak. After more time passed, Level 20 equipment would grow obsolete and lose its value. Hence, now was the best time to sell their excess equipment and maximize their profit.

Currently, the Candlelight Trading Firm continued to expand every day. However, the variety of goods the Firm sold was still insufficient.

There was a limit to the number of players the Firm could attract just by relying on the Intermediate Mana Armor Kits and Light Stones. Only when the Firm could sell good equipment in large quantities would it truly be able to hold its ground in Star-Moon Kingdom.

In Shi Feng’s previous life, many trading firms would sell the Bronze, Mysterious-Iron, Secret-Silver, Fine-Gold and even Dark-Gold Equipment produced by its forgers. Only by following that example could the Candlelight Trading Firm maintain its Shops’ competitiveness.

Soon after, Shi Feng logged out of the game to rest.

—

Time passed slowly.

On the day after the great battle…

The atmosphere surrounding White River City was no longer oppressive like before, and many players on the streets had begun talking about yesterday’s war.

“Damn! I can’t believe that, while I was at work during the day[1], the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was actually defeated!”

“I know right? Zero Wing is OP now. If even a super-first-rate Guild is helpless against it, it would be even more impossible for other Guilds.”

“It is a huge pity that you did not get to watch that battle. That Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion really deserves its title as a super-first-rate Guild. The number of experts they sent over yesterday could easily overwhelm any first-rate Guild! However, Zero Wing still came out on top! Nobody could have imagined that they actually had such a powerful NPC guard; that one NPC killed hundreds of top-tier experts all by himself! My eyes nearly fell out when I saw that scene back then!”

“Now that Zero Wing has defeated the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, it will definitely become even more powerful in the future. I heard that Zero Wing has begun mass recruitment again. I failed their test the last time. I wonder if I can pass it this time?”

“Previously, I thought about trying to join a Super Guild. Now, however, it seems that there won’t be a need to do so. I’ll go with you to apply for the test.”

The independent players filling the streets and alleyways of White River City talked fervently about Zero Wing, a fire of anticipation burning in their eyes.

These players felt proud just thinking about residing in the same city as Zero Wing, a Guild capable of contending against the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion. Compared to those flamboyant first-rate Guilds, Zero Wing was far more powerful.

In reality, such a reaction wasn’t limited to just the players of White River City. The independent players of many other cities, other kingdoms even, began migrating to White River City one after another, every one of them hoping to join Zero Wing.

In just half a day’s time, Zero Wing completely recovered to its original strength. The number of elite players Zero Wing had right now was even higher than before the war with the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion.

TL Notes:

[1] Reminder: daytime in reality is nighttime in God’s Domain. The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion attacked during the night.

Chapter 560: Times Have Changed

Normally, the Guilds involved in a Guild War would have to undergo a protracted recovery before they could regain their peak.

However, after Zero Wing’s miraculous victory over the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, its prestige throughout the entire Star-Moon Kingdom soared. At this moment, not even the few first-rate Guilds based in Star-Moon Kingdom were a match for it.

As a result, a large number of independent players swarmed to White River City in order to join Zero Wing.

In no time at all, Zero Wing went from being an ordinary Guild with 50,000 members to a large Guild with over 80,000 members. Moreover, this was after Zero Wing increased the difficulty of its recruitment test. Most importantly, this number was still rising rapidly, with no signs of slowing down at all. Zero Wing’s development speed rendered the various large Guilds in Star-Moon Kingdom speechless.

Currently, Zero Wing could already be described using the term “overcrowded.”

All of this was a result of Zero Wing’s future becoming limitless.

Previously, although Zero Wing had attracted quite a lot of attention due to its various feats, at the end of the day, it was merely another small Guild that was a dime a dozen in God’s Domain. It was an existence that would disappear in an instant should it accidentally anger a large Guild. Hence, when independent players were choosing a Guild to join, the first ones they would consider were definitely those large Guilds instead of Zero Wing.

Now, however, the situation had changed. Firstly, Zero Wing was already an existence that did not need to fear any other Guild. Secondly, the treatment and benefits Zero Wing provided surpassed even those of first-rate Guilds. Thirdly, there were all sorts of top-tier equipment available in the Guild’s Warehouse. Just looking at the wide array of equipment would make one drool. Not to mention, the Guild Residence also had a large number of Private Rooms available for rent.

Whether it was in terms of leveling speed or equipment upgrading speed, Zero Wing was much faster than every other Guild.

With so many advantages, everyone would naturally hope to join Zero Wing.

“Aren’t you guys being too arrogant?! You defeated the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s raid only once! Among the large number of independent teams out there, the combat power of our Flying Eagles team is definitely ranked above average! We will be highly valued even if we join a first-rate Guild! Yet, now that we are trying to join Zero Wing, only two of the ten of us managed to pass your test! Aren’t you looking down on us a little too much?!” a Level 24 Guardian Knight demanded angrily.

“That’s right! We hurried over to this place from far away and have spent a lot of money on teleportation fees, all because we want to join Zero Wing! Can’t you lower the difficulty of the test by just a little bit?” a Level 23 Ranger complained.

At the recruitment hall inside Zero Wing’s Residence, many players were voicing their discontent over Zero Wing’s recruitment test.

This situation was giving Aqua Rose a huge headache as well. She could not understand why Shi Feng suddenly decided to raise the requirements despite these already being very high before—even higher than those of first-rate Guilds. Yet, now, Shi Feng raised that bar even further. He was practically trying to drive players away from the Guild…

“Guild Leader, there are countless Guilds in God’s Domain, and all of them are frantically trying to recruit members. Now that we have defeated the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, we have the perfect opportunity to develop quickly. If we don’t take this chance to recruit a large number of players while we are still popular, it won’t be as easy to do so in the future. Can’t you lower the conditions a little?” Aqua Rose asked.

Most of the players who had come from other cities were relatively skilled players back in their own cities. However, in order to better develop themselves, they had come all the way to White River City specifically to join Zero Wing. One could say that these players were the cream of the crop of other cities, and rejecting them right now would be such a pity.

“I won’t change this condition no matter what. Besides, I didn’t invite them over; they came of their own free will. In any case, the condition is there. Once they pass it, they can naturally join the Guild. If they fail, there is nothing we can do about it. Zero Wing’s resources are limited. Our Guild isn’t a garbage collection station.

“Moreover, Zero Wing is taking the path of the elite. There is no meaning in recruiting in bulk.” Shi Feng showed no signs of regret at all. Slowly, he explained, “You have seen it for yourself. During the war with the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion, the War Dragon Legion nearly annihilated all our elites. If we did not have a large number of NPC guards to assist us, the War Dragon Legion might have wiped us out. Hence, what we need to do now is not to increase the number of members we have but to improve the quality of our members.”

Aqua Rose fell silent upon hearing Shi Feng’s words.

The gap between the two sides in that war was simply too vast. Not to mention the War Dragon Legion, even the standard of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s elite members was significantly higher than Zero Wing’s. Had the gap been smaller, Zero Wing would not have suffered such massive losses.

“Indeed, my mind must’ve been clouded before. I’ll carry out your orders immediately, then.” After Shi Feng’s lecture, Aqua Rose finally realized that she’d had her head in the clouds out of joy from their victory.

Zero Wing had always been taking the path of the elite. It was precisely because of this that the Guild’s members managed to improve their strength so quickly. Despite having only 50,000 members, there were over 13,000 elite members in the Guild. This was a very frightening ratio.

Moreover, Zero Wing’s success in developing from a small Guild with only several thousand members to a Guild with more elite members than even a second-rate Guild was all because every Guild member received a significant share of the Guild’s resources.

Following which, Shi Feng handed over all Zero Wing-related matters to Aqua Rose while he went to his forging room in the Candlelight Trading Firm.

The demand for Intermediate Mana Armor Kits was just too high. The kits he had made several days ago were nearly sold out now, so he had to replenish the inventory immediately.

During this period of time, Shi Feng had been constantly busy developing the Candlelight Trading Firm, so he did not have time to do anything else.

Notably, the time limit for his Epic Quest, Darkness Descends, was nearly up.

Fortunately, the Candlelight Trading Firm was already well-developed, and its fame had already spread throughout the entire kingdom. It would not take long to accumulate 30,000 Gold.

—

While a sea of players was applying to join Zero Wing, the situation on the Candlelight Trading Firm’s side was also getting out of hand.

Currently, White River City was flourishing. It was no longer inferior to Star-Moon City. Moreover, during this period of time, the Candlelight Trading Firm had begun selling equipment in large quantities, enjoying great popularity from the public. As for the Overwhelming Trading Firm, it had already been left in the dust by now.

Inside the lively Candlelight Trading Firm, the various large Guilds that had originally been planning to take advantage of Zero Wing’s misfortune had all gathered here once again. This time, however, no one displayed the arrogance they had before, and they were all following the rules of the Trading Firm to the letter.

“Guild Leader, do you really think Black Flame will be willing to meet us this time?” Purple Eye asked as she looked at Galaxy Past.

“Since he has opened a trading firm, he will naturally want to do business. However, I am also not sure of Black Flame’s personality. Previously, he challenged the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion without hesitation. This time, he might really ignore us outright,” Galaxy Past laughed bitterly. “If I had known things would end up like this, I would have followed in Gentle Snow’s footsteps before. I heard that Gentle Snow managed to purchase quite a number of Intermediate Mana Armor Kits, and they have long since made preparations to raid 50-man large-scale Team Dungeons.”

Not only had the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion suffered a crushing defeat, but Nine Dragons Emperor was also forced to bring the War Dragon Legion back to the Pavilion’s main headquarters to recuperate. If even the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion ended up in such a state, ordinary first-rate Guilds like them stood no chance against Zero Wing at all. Now, the only thing they could do was wait.

—

Shortly after Shi Feng began forging Intermediate Mana Armor Kits, Melancholic Smile entered his forging room.

“Guild Leader, many upper managers from first-rate Guilds have come to the Candlelight Trading Firm. This time, they wish to meet and have a proper discussion with you. When you will have the time to do so?” Melancholic Smile asked softly.

“They’re finally here?” Shi Feng stopped what he was doing. Revealing a faint smile, he said, “Let’s head over there and take a look, then.”

Chapter 561: Business

Overwhelming Smile’s Guild Residence:

Overwhelming Smile’s upper echelons currently filled the magnificent meeting room.

Every one of them wore depressed expressions.

Sitting at the head of the table, Feng Xuanyang appeared utterly defeated.

Zero Wing’s victory over the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion had dealt a psychological blow to every member of Overwhelming Smile.

Originally, nobody had believed that Zero Wing could survive the great war against the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion.

Now, however, Zero Wing was like the sun at high noon, and many Overwhelming Smile members in White River City had already considered withdrawing from the Guild.

Ever since Overwhelming Smile began warring with Zero Wing, massive battles would ensue whenever the Guilds met outside the city. Previously, they had maintained a balance against Zero Wing, fighting on equal footing. Now, Zero Wing suppressed them completely. Their morale wasn’t the only thing that fell with each consecutive fight; their Levels were decreasing rapidly as well.

On the other hand, Zero Wing grew more valiant and stronger with every passing fight.

Right now, Overwhelming Smile’s members no longer dared don their Guild’s Emblem when they left the city, deeply afraid that Zero Wing’s members would recognize them. As a result of this depressing situation, many players had begun withdrawing from Overwhelming Smile.

—

“Why do I have such bad luck? Back in the day, I had been adamant about joining Overwhelming Smile. If I had known something like this would happen, I would’ve remained in Zero Wing. At the very least, I would have been a party leader there by now.”

“I know, right? Even being a normal member would be fine, not to mention being a party leader!”

Many of Overwhelming Smile’s members resting in the Guild Residence chatted among themselves. At this moment, the players that had defected from Zero Wing regretted their decision.

It was especially true when they saw the Zero Wing members who had been less-skilled when they left that could now defeat them easily.

After only half a day, more than 3,000 Overwhelming Smile members in White River City had withdrawn from the Guild due to Zero Wing’s recruitment. One could just imagine how huge of a blow this was to Overwhelming Smile. However, the most damaging aspect was that more players considered defecting as time passed; even some of Overwhelming Smile’s middle managers began to express such inclinations.

—

“Do any of you have any ideas of what we can do about this?” Feng Xuanyang asked as he swept his gaze around the meeting room.

However, none of the upper managers in the room answered Feng Xuanyang’s question. They remained silent. It was not because they did not wish to answer Feng Xuanyang. Rather, they simply did not know what to say.

Before this, their Guild had recruited players in bulk and had even poached plenty of elite players from Zero Wing. Even now, their Guild’s member count greatly surpassed Zero Wing. However, when it came to an actual fight, they realized that having the advantage of numbers was of little to no use.

Currently, whether it was in terms of Levels or equipment, Overwhelming Smile was no match for Zero Wing at all. Even its momentum was significantly slower than Zero Wing’s.

What could they do in such a situation?

Moreover, the war between their Guild and Zero Wing was like a bottomless pit. No matter how much money they tossed into that hole each day, they could not fill it.

If they continued this fight, they would eventually have to disband the Guild altogether.

“A bunch of rubbish! Why do I even need you here?!” Feng Xuanyang bellowed as he abruptly slammed his hand onto the table.

Everyone in the room involuntarily lowered their heads, not daring to utter a single word.

“This won’t do! I can’t let things end just like this! Since the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion has suffered defeat, it will definitely try to restore its reputation. Think of a way to make contact with the Pavilion!” Feng Xuanyang said, a bloody glow flashing in his eyes. Angrily, he declared, “If Underworld and the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion join hands, I refuse to believe that we can’t annihilate Zero Wing!”

—

Meanwhile, in the Candlelight Trading Firm’s first-floor reception hall:

The upper managers of various large Guilds had waited, unattended, for a long time now. This time, however, none of them dared to complain.

Suddenly, the doors to the reception hall opened. Everyone inside the room turned their gazes towards the entrance, discovering Shi Feng and Melancholic Smile entering the hall leisurely.

Immediately, the upper managers of the various large Guilds went up to Shi Feng and greeted him with friendly expressions on their faces. Their current attitude was completely different from what it had been in the past.

“I already know what your goal is by coming here. I can indeed sell you some Intermediate Mana Armor Kits. However, I have a condition. If you aren’t interested in my proposal, then you may just leave,” Shi Feng said straightforwardly, showing no signs of appreciation everyone’s compliments.

“Hahaha! Guild Leader Black Flame, please, don’t hold back! No one will complain even if you have ten conditions, much less one!” Galaxy Past said, laughing.

“Right, right! Guild Leader Black Flame, tell us what your condition is! As long as it is within our capabilities, we will do it!” the Branch Leader of Emperor’s Light followed up.

The importance of Intermediate Mana Armor Kits to Dungeon raids was extraordinary.

Currently, although the various large Guilds present no longer had many problems raiding 20-man Team Dungeons, 50-man Team Dungeons were still forbidden lands for them.

Meanwhile, it was precisely because Gentle Snow had managed to obtain a large number of Intermediate Mana Armor Kits beforehand that she had gained the confidence to begin raiding a 50-man Team Dungeon.

Ignoring all else, just the Level 25 Fine-Gold Equipment and Set Equipment one could obtain already made a 50-man Team Dungeons quite attractive to Guilds. Not to mention, there were also various rare materials, forging designs, and other items.

In God’s Domain, if a Guild wished to surpass others, what did they need?

Wasn’t it equipment?

If one likened a 20-man Dungeon to a treasure chest, then a 50-man Team Dungeon was a mountain of treasure.

Meanwhile, the Intermediate Mana Armor Kit was the key to reaching this treasure mountain.

Naturally, the various large Guilds present wished to obtain this key. Even if they had to pay a price, they could easily earn it all back from the Dungeons. Hence, the various large Guilds were very eager to obtain the kits.

“My condition is very simple. You will purchase each Intermediate Mana Armor Kit for 7 Gold and 100 Magic Crystals. This is a reasonable price, right?” Shi Feng laughed.

Players could easily obtain Magic Crystals from any Dungeon. Only, the amount one could obtain varied with each Dungeon.

A Party Dungeon would drop very few pieces, while Team Dungeons would drop a little more.

Currently, each Magic Crystal sold for around two or three Silver.

The reason for such a low price was mainly due to the fact that Magic Crystals had few uses. They were normally only used in alchemy processes. However, as Guilds usually kept the Magic Crystals they obtained in their Warehouses, it was not easy to purchase them on the market. Hence, Shi Feng intended to trade for them.

With a rough calculation, each Intermediate Mana Armor Kit would come to a total cost of 10 Gold. This price was twice as high as the Candlelight Trading Firm sold them for.

“Okay! No problem!”

“Hahaha! Guild Leader Black Flame, I have no issues with this condition! I wonder how many kits Guild Leader Black Flame is willing to sell?”

The various Guild representatives immediately revealed joyous smiles. None of them had expected for Shi Feng to put forward such a cheap request.

Currently, although the Candlelight Trading Firm sold the Intermediate Mana Armor Kit for 5 Gold per kit, on the black market, however, they cost more than 10 Gold each. Even then, the demand for the kits still outstripped the supply. Now, they could buy the kits directly for 10 Gold each.

Immediately, the upper managers of the various large Guilds began voicing their requested volume.

“I want 120 kits!”

“I want 300 kits!”

“I want 150!”

…

Every one of these upper managers could not help but wish they could empty the Candlelight Trading Firm’s stock of Intermediate Mana Armor Kits. Among them, the Star Alliance was the richest, with Galaxy Past purchasing 500 kits in one go.

However, Shi Feng did not possess that many kits on hand at all. Hence, he had everyone sign a contract with him, requiring the pay upfront.

With the system bearing witness to the contract, no one worried about any potential issues. Over a hundred Guilds willingly handed over the money they owed. As for the Magic Crystals, they had already sent their subordinates to ship the crystals over.

In just a short moment, Shi Feng had earned over 30,000 Gold.

Of course, this profit did not come without a price. Shi Feng was required to deliver the Intermediate Mana Armor Kits he owed within five days.

Chapter 562: Divine Colosseum

After the upper managers of the various large Guilds left the reception hall in high spirits, Melancholic Smile could no longer hold back as she asked, “Guild Leader, will it really be alright to sell so many Intermediate Mana Armor Kits to these Guilds?”

It would have been fine if it were the Basic Strengthened Armor Kits. After all, the forging design for this item could be obtained through various means, so other forgers could produce them as well. However, the Intermediate Mana Armor Kit was different. Shi Feng was the only person who could forge them, so the item’s production was extremely limited.

Moreover, they had only initially sold the Intermediate Mana Armor Kits with the intention of attracting business to the Candlelight Trading Firm.

Now that the Candlelight Trading Firm’s business has begun to take shape, there was no need to use the Intermediate Mana Armor Kits to attract more customers.

By selling so many Intermediate Mana Armor Kits to other Guilds, it would only serve to strengthen these Guilds. This would just cause Zero Wing more trouble!

“Since we are a trading firm, why shouldn’t we do business when the opportunity presents itself?” Shi Feng laughed. “Not to mention, I’ve already made a huge profit. I should at least allow others to pick up some scraps, right?”

“Huge profit?” Melancholic Smile was confused.

“If we sell the same amount of kits through the black market secretly, we will make more than what we just did. However, my goal isn’t just to earn Coins, but also Magic Crystals.” Shi Feng explained, “Currently, there are few uses for Magic Crystals. Moreover, they can only be obtained from Dungeons. However, the various large Guilds normally keep the Magic Crystals they obtained for themselves. So, if we had to point out who possesses the most Magic Crystals, it would have to be these large Guilds.”

“But the Candlelight Trading Firm also has plenty of Magic Crystals. We even have an entire warehouse full of them right now. We have more than what we can use.” Melancholic Smile grew even more confused.

“Have you forgotten the Simulation Device in the Special Forging Rooms?” Shi Feng laughed.

Immediately, Melancholic Smile’s eyes glowed as she came to a realization.

If one wished to use the Simulation Device, they needed to expend Magic Crystals.

Meanwhile, the amount of Magic Crystals required varied depending on the materials simulated. The more precious a material was, the more Mana Crystals were required.

A Simulation Device could allow a Lifestyle player to familiarize themselves with the production flow of an item swiftly, significantly increasing their success rate and production speed when it came to the real deal. Compared to experimenting and wasting actual materials, it was much cheaper to spend Magic Crystals.

Currently, the Candlelight Trading Firm was developing in multiple cities. However, it severely lacked manpower, particularly Advanced Forging Apprentices and Basic Forgers who were capable of producing advanced products. Despite the Firm’s efforts in recruiting Lifestyle players from cities outside its sphere of influence, the number of players they had recruited was utterly insufficient.

Currently, player demand for advanced products was growing exponentially.

However, only Basic Forgers had a slightly higher success rate of producing items such as Level 20 Bronze and Mysterious-Iron Equipment. Advanced Forging Apprentices could not produce such items at all. As a result, the other trading firms throughout the entire God’s Domain were also desperately recruiting and poaching Basic Forgers.

Unfortunately, becoming a true Forger was easier said than done.

If one wanted to nurture a group of Basic Forgers, the money required to do so could bankrupt an ordinary small Guild.

If the Candlelight Trading Firm wished to quickly nurture a batch of Advanced Forging Apprentices and Basic Forgers, utilizing the Simulation Device in the Special Forging Rooms would be the cheapest way to do so. Only, the amount of Magic Crystals required to sustain the Simulation Device for so many people would be astounding. Considering the situation again, Melancholic Smile found that the amount of Magic Crystals the Firm had stored away was indeed insufficient.

“Alright, in a moment, go and receive the Magic Crystals that those Guilds have sent. I’ve also removed the restriction on the previously reserved Special Forging Room. You can allow players with strong potential to train there.” Saying so, Shi Feng removed the restriction on the Special Forging Room. “Right, you should also purchase some Magic Crystals from time to time. However, make sure not to attract too much attention when doing so lest people start hiking up the prices.”

“Guild Leader, rest assured, I will send people to purchase them from other cities discreetly. I won’t let others find out about this!” Melancholic Smile nodded, smiling brightly. This was not the first time she had to do such a thing.

Melancholic Smile then departed from the reception hall.

“I can only lie to her like this for now.”

Shi Feng released a sigh of relief as he watched Melancholic Smile’s departing figure. In reality, he had an even greater purpose for collecting Magic Crystals in bulk.

The Divine Colosseum!

That was where Magic Crystals were truly valuable.

In the past, everyone had treated Magic Crystals as garbage as, at the time, only certain items required Magic Crystals to produce. Moreover, these items required very few to produce. Hence, players would normally celebrate if they managed to sell the Magic Crystals they had obtained.

However, nobody could have imagined that, the moment the Divine Colosseum opened, the prices of Magic Crystals would instantly soar by over six times.

The Divine Colosseum allowed players to examine their strength, and it allowed players to undergo training provided by the system to improve their weaknesses. Moreover, one could also obtain rewards from battles in the Divine Colosseum. The Divine Colosseum also had many other functions.

Due to the emergence of the Divine Colosseum, the players of God’s Domain had obtained a systematic promotion ladder that allowed them to become experts quickly. Hence, the Divine Colosseum had been very popular among players.

Players were required to pay a fee in order to use the Divine Colosseum. However, one could not use Coins to make payments at the Colosseum, but Magic Crystals instead. Hence, prices of Magic Crystals skyrocketed upon the emergence of the Divine Colosseum. Even after a decade, Magic Crystals were still a powerful currency. They were worth as much as gold in reality.

Otherwise, Shi Feng would not have foolishly use Intermediate Mana Armor Kits to trade for Magic Crystals.

If possible, Shi Feng wished to turn all the Coins in his possession into Magic Crystals. By the time the Divine Colosseum activated, the 30,000 Gold in his hands would immediately become more than 100,000, or even 200,000, Gold.

However, in order to avoid attracting suspicion, he could only purchase them slowly and secretly.

Over the following two days, Shi Feng did not rest or log out of the game at all as he ceaselessly forged the Intermediate Mana Armor Kits. By the time he had cleared his debt, he had risen from Level 30 to Level 32. He had actually managed to level up twice in two days. Moreover, this was after he had reached Level 30. If it were anyone else, they would not be able to rise by two Levels even after grinding for a whole week.

Meanwhile, Shi Feng’s Forging Proficiency had also risen to Intermediate Forger.

During this period, both Zero Wing and the Candlelight Trading Firm developed rapidly. It was especially true for Zero Wing. The Guild’s member count had finally broken past the 100,000 threshold, and it could finally be considered a large Guild in the truest sense.

On the Candlelight Trading Firm’s side, thanks to the Simulation Device, the Firm had successfully nurtured several additional Basic Forgers during these past two days.

As for the other Guilds, they had also begun their competition over 50-man Team Dungeons.

However, the thing that surprised everyone was that Overwhelming Smile had taken the lead, becoming the first Guild to defeat the First Boss in a 50-man Hard Mode Team Dungeon.

As for Zero Wing, Aqua Rose’s team had only been the second to defeat the First Boss after relying on their superior equipment. The perceived failure had disheartened Aqua Rose.

Shi Feng was not surprised at all.

Overwhelming Smile had the aid of War Wolf, as well as several other true experts. In terms of the number of top-tier experts, Overwhelming Smile was far above Zero Wing. Moreover, 50-man Team Dungeons relied more on a player’s combat techniques than equipment. It was only natural for Aqua Rose’s team to lose.

“It should be about time to turn in the quest.” Shi Feng looked at the Coins that filled his pockets. He could not help but look forward to the quest reward given by the Starstreak Trading Firm.

As one part of an Epic Quest, it had been extremely difficult.

If he had not possessed the Advanced Book of Magic, it would have been impossible for him to complete this phase of the quest.

Chapter 563: Epic Treasure Chest

Just as Shi Feng finished tidying up the Intermediate Mana Armor Kits he had forged and was about to head towards the Starstreak Trading Firm to complete his quest, Melancholic Smile suddenly rushed into the room, obviously agitated.

“Why the hurry? Did something big happened?” Shi Feng could not help but ask.

“People from the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion are here.” Melancholic Smile hurriedly said, “They say they must meet with you. Moreover, they wish to hand you an item personally. They say that this item will be a huge help to you, and if you do not take a look at it, you will regret it in the future.”

“Regret it, huh?” Shi Feng laughed. “This Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion truly is interesting. I’ve just defeated them, and already, they’re sending gifts? Let’s go see what they’re up to, then.”

The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was a super-first-rate Guild. Although it had suffered massive losses in its war against Zero Wing, with the Pavilion’s background, it should have already recovered most of its losses. As for the possibility of the Pavilion starting another war with Zero Wing, that was highly unlikely.

Hence, the fact that someone from the Pavilion had come looking for him confused Shi Feng. He had no idea of what the Pavilion was up to.

After entering the reception room, Shi Feng noticed that the Pavilion had only sent one person to meet with him this time.

However, the moment Shi Feng saw this person, he was immediately shocked.

Why is she here?

Shi Feng looked at the girl, who approached him slowly, the scene of many legendary wars that occurred in his previous life surfacing in his mind.

This woman was none other than the protagonist of those legendary wars, Phoenix Rain.

The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was split into two Pavilions. One was the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion, while the other was the Phoenix Pavilion. Of the two, Nine Dragons Emperor controlled the Heavenly Dragon Pavilion, while Phoenix Rain managed the Phoenix Pavilion.

Although Nine Dragons Emperor looked quite young, he had merely managed to retain his youth due to the technology of this era and exercise. In reality, Nine Dragons Emperor’s real age had long since passed 35.

Even so, the fact that Nine Dragons Emperor had been able to become the Pavilion Master of a super-first-rate Guild at the age of 35 showed that he was a promising talent.

However, Phoenix Rain was even more amazing. Despite still being in her early twenties, she had already become the Pavilion Master of the Phoenix Pavilion. In the past, her deeds in the virtual gaming world had been legendary. As a result, the time when Phoenix Rain had reigned over the Phoenix Pavilion had been hailed as the Pavilion’s golden age. During that time, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion had rapidly grown stronger.

At present, Phoenix Rain was the reason that everyone considered the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion as a Guild that was closest to becoming a Super Guild.

Even the extraordinarily mysterious Great Pavilion Master of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was willing to allow Phoenix Rain to succeed him, becoming the Great Pavilion Master.

Currently, Phoenix Rain wore a bright red mage’s robe, the robe showcasing her exquisite figure. Every one of her actions carried an air of bewitchment, causing others to submit voluntarily.

“Hello, Guild Leader Black Flame. This young woman is known as Phoenix Rain, the Phoenix Pavilion Master of the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion.”

Phoenix Rain beamed a flourishing smile at Shi Feng. This smile alone had captivated Melancholic Smile, who stood beside Shi Feng. As for Shi Feng himself, however, other than his initial surprise at seeing Phoenix Rain, he did not react even in the slightest to the woman’s mesmerizing smile.

Seeing Shi Feng’s reaction, Phoenix Rain’s smile became more pleasant as she said, “Guild Leader Black Flame, let’s have a seat and chat properly, shall we?”

Shi Feng nodded, his mind very calm. He did not treat Phoenix Rain as if she were some unreachable existence.

Shi Feng’s dull reaction was not because he had mental issues. Instead, his mind was far from ordinary. It was merely a smile. It was still not enough to make him blush or cause his heartbeat to quicken.

“Phoenix Pavilion Master, you previously mentioned a gift for me and that I will regret it if I don’t take a look. May I know just what kind of item Phoenix Pavilion Master offers me?” Shi Feng smiled calmly.

“Guild Leader Black Flame really is impatient. We’ve only just met, yet, you’re already so straightforward. I don’t even know from where I should begin,” Phoenix Rain complained as she sent Shi Feng a resentful gaze. Sighing, she said, “However, since you’ve already asked, it would not be right to refuse.”

Phoenix Rain then took out a treasure chest that flashed with a purple glow, carefully placing it on the table.

“Behold!”

The moment Phoenix Rain said so, Melancholic Smile, who sat beside Shi Feng, was stupefied.

“This is an Epic Treasure Chest!” Melancholic Smile dared not believe her own eyes.

There were plenty of treasure chests in God’s Domain. However, the majority of them were Common Treasure Chests. One would be lucky if they encountered a Bronze Treasure Chest, whereas obtaining a Mysterious-Iron Treasure Chest would make them rich.

If one encountered a Secret-Silver Chest, they would become the envy of many.

As for Fine-Gold and Dark-Gold Treasure Chests, Melancholic Smile had yet to see what they even looked like.

Meanwhile, an Epic Treasure Chest was a legend.

The purple glow surrounding the treasure chest before her was indeed the glow effect unique to an Epic ranked item. Hence, Melancholic Smile recognized it immediately.

“Correct; this is indeed an Epic Treasure Chest,” Phoenix Rain said, her lips curled up into an enchanting smile. Unhurriedly, she said, “Our Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion encountered this item accidentally. In order to obtain this chest, we sacrificed tens of thousands of lives. I wonder if Guild Leader Black Flame is satisfied with this gift?”

“Phoenix Pavilion Master sure loves to joke. I’m certain there is nobody in the entire God’s Domain who would not be tempted by an Epic Treasure Chest. Naturally, I am no exception.” Shi Feng had also used Omniscient Eyes to appraise the treasure chest. There were no signs of forgery. This treasure chest before him was a bona fide Epic Treasure Chest.

Shi Feng had only encountered Dark-Gold Treasure Chests several times by chance.

As for an Epic Treasure Chest, this was also Shi Feng’s first time encountering one in this life and his past.

In the past, Shi Feng had never even heard of any news of Epic Treasure Chests.

That’s right. He had not received even the slightest bit of information regarding Epic Treasure Chests.

Shi Feng had even doubted that Epic Treasure Chests existed in God’s Domain.

Now that Phoenix Rain had brought an Epic Treasure Chest as a gift for him, he wondered if he were dreaming.

Dark Gold Treasure Chests had a fixed chance of containing an Epic item.

What about an Epic Treasure Chest, then?

Shi Feng did not even dare to think about it. At the very least, an Epic item would drop. There might even be an extremely tiny chance that it might contain a complete Legendary item.

Legendary item… They were very limited in God’s Domain. In the past, every player who owned a Legendary item was an existence ranked at the game’s apex.

Just owning the Fragmented Legendary ranked Heavenly Dragon’s Breath had allowed Shi Feng to have an unmatched advantage in terms of Attributes. Even a monstrous existence like Martial Dragon was forced into a stalemate against him. Moreover, he had been unable to use any of his Skills during that fight. If his Skills weren’t sealed, he could definitely beat the living daylights out of Martial Dragon if he activated Dragon’s Power.

On the other hand, had Martial Dragon possessed a Legendary item, Zero Wing would have definitely perished in the war before.

“I’m glad that it has attracted your attention. Initially, I was worried that Guild Leader Black Flame will not be satisfied with this.” Phoenix Rain revealed an expression of relief. She looked nothing like a legend.

“Phoenix Pavilion Master, just tell me what you want. I don’t believe that anyone would gift me an Epic Treasure Chest for no good reason,” Shi Feng asked after calming down.

“Hahaha! Guild Leader Black Flame is indeed smart! There are no free lunches in this world. What I need Guild Leader Black Flame’s help with is simple. I would not ask you to do something that will displease you. Moreover, this matter offers no harm, only benefits,” Phoenix Rain laughed. “However, I will require you to sign a contract before I can tell you. Otherwise, we will have to forget about this altogether. Only, it would be a pity for this Epic Treasure Chest…”

Shi Feng fell silent. He could not understand just what Phoenix Rain was trying to do.

Chapter 564: Demon Queen

Phoenix Rain did not grow anxious at the lack of response from Shi Feng. She simply sipped her black tea as she waited quietly for Shi Feng’s answer.

It was as if she were not afraid of Shi Feng rejecting her offer whatsoever.

An Epic Treasure Chest was incredibly precious. One could say that it was far rarer than an Epic item. The Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion had been lucky to stumble upon it by chance. To secure it, they had even paid a colossal price.

As for what one could obtain from an Epic Treasure Chest?

Even if an Epic item with bad Attributes dropped, its value would still be significant.

There was no need to mention how much the chest would benefit a guild if it contained something even better than an Epic item. Just using it as a gimmick would allow a Guild’s reputation to soar, not to mention letting an expert equip it and enter a Dungeon.

As there was a limited number of players allowed to enter a Dungeon at a single time, the quality of players entering a Dungeon would significantly impact the raiding progression. If a Guild allowed one of its experts to equip an Epic item, the total damage of any team said expert joined would instantly rise to a whole new level.

Naturally, the team’s raid progression would be much faster than other Guilds, having a significantly higher chance of obtaining the First Clear of a Dungeon. The team could also challenge Dungeons that other Guilds found impossible to raid. The amount of money one could save from the losses the team suffered while raiding the Dungeon would be massive.

No Guild with any ambition would let this golden opportunity slip through their fingers, much less the extraordinarily ambitious Zero Wing.

“Can Phoenix Pavilion Master tell me the method to open this Epic Treasure Chest?” Shi Feng asked after pondering for some time.

Although it was his first time seeing an Epic Treasure Chest, he had not forgotten the treasure chest’s traits due to his excitement.

In God’s Domain, the higher ranked a treasure chest was, the more difficult it would be to open.

Although Shi Feng had no idea how stringent the conditions were to open an Epic Treasure Chest, he knew that even a Dark-Gold Treasure Chest required a key. It was impossible that an Epic Treasure Chest would have no requirements.

The moment Shi Feng asked this question, Phoenix Rain could not help but carefully reevaluate her opinion of Shi Feng.

“I did not expect Guild Leader Black Flame to remain so calm despite seeing an Epic Treasure Chest. It would seem that Nine Dragons Emperor did not lose without reason,” Phoenix Rain praised.

Any ordinary person’s first reaction when seeing a treasure chest would be to claim it for themselves. Even the Guild Leader of a first-rate Guild, someone who had undergone the tempering of many storms, would grow excited should they encounter an Epic Treasure Chest. It was simply impossible to stay calm. After all, the potential benefits one could gain from an Epic Treasure Chest were almost limitless, so much so that it could be the turning point of a Guild. Hence, how could anyone possibly stay calm when an Epic Treasure Chest was within their reach?

Yet, Shi Feng had not forgotten the fact that there was no such thing as a free lunch in this world.

“Indeed, just as Guild Leader Black Flame has surmised, there is a condition to open this Epic Treasure Chest. However, this condition should not be difficult for a Guild like Zero Wing to meet. Even if it isn’t possible now, it will be in the future. It is only a matter of time.” Phoenix Rain came clean without trying to hide anything.

“May I know what the condition is for opening this treasure chest?” Shi Feng smiled bitterly.

How could he not tell that Phoenix Rain was trying to hide something?

This was an Epic Treasure Chest!

Just a Dark-Gold Treasure Chest already required a Dark-Gold ranked key to open it. However, a Dark-Gold Key was even rarer than the Dark-Gold Treasure Chest itself. If an Epic Treasure Chest required an Epic Key to open, Shi Feng could do without it.

Phoenix Rain frowned slightly. She did not think Shi Feng would be so adamant for an answer.

Although an Epic Treasure Chest was indeed tempting, she had held the chest for a long time now. Unfortunately, she had no way to open it and could only stare blankly at the glowing chest. Otherwise, who would possibly use such a priceless item as a bargaining chip?

However, she never expected that Shi Feng would not take her bait…

“Hah… Forget it. I believe that, if I don’t tell you, you will most likely refuse to negotiate,” Phoenix Rain sighed. “Truth be told, the condition for opening this treasure chest is relatively simple. One only needs to gather eighty-eight Mana Stones. I have investigated the Mana Stones somewhat. They only drop from 100-man Dungeons with a certain probability. Of course, it will not be possible to gather eighty-eight pieces within a short time. However, with Zero Wing’s strength, collecting them will only be a matter of time, right?”

“Mana Stones?” Shi Feng hurriedly suppressed the excitement in his heart, not daring to reveal it. “I have also heard of this item before. However, I heard that they are extremely rare. Obtaining just one would require a tremendous amount of effort, let alone eighty-eight. At the very least, it would take several months to collect that many.”

Previously, in order to remove the seal on the Destroyer of Immortality, he had discovered a method to obtain Mana Stones that did not require raiding 100-man Hard Mode Team Dungeons. Although eighty-eight Mana Stones was not a small amount, and he would be required to spend a lot of money, it was still much easier than trying to obtain them from 100-man Dungeons, betting on that meager 2% drop rate.

“Guild Leader Black Flame, although you will only be able to open the treasure chest after one or two months, an Epic item will still be extremely rare after that much time has passed. Not to mention, Epic items aren’t the only thing you can obtain from an Epic Treasure Chest. If Guild Leader Black Flame obtains a Legendary item, at that time, you will have truly made a fortune,” Phoenix Raid hurriedly explained when she saw Shi Feng’s disappointed expression.

“You are correct. However…” Shi Feng muttered, revealing a troubled expression.

However, when he saw Phoenix Rain trying her best to push the treasure chest onto him, he was inwardly exhilarated.

Indeed, just as Phoenix Rain had said, in the past, even after three months since God’s Domain launched, Dark-Gold items were still as rare as a phoenix’s feather, not to mention Epic items. Back then, only Super Guilds and a few extremely lucky Guilds possessed Epic items. As for Fragmented Legendary and Legendary items, there had been no news whatsoever about these items.

If Shi Feng could obtain an Epic item in three months’ time, he would make a huge fortune. After all, one could continue to use an Epic item to a very high Level. There was no need to worry about it becoming obsolete during the initial stages of the game.

“Guild Leader Black Flame, you should know that my request of you will not be difficult to complete. Moreover, it is something that will benefit you as well. I even offer you this Epic Treasure Chest as a gift. Yet, you still try to make excuses to put me off. Are you really that afraid that I will eat you up?” Phoenix Rain smiled brightly, revealing a charming expression.

Watching Phoenix Rain act in such a way, even Shi Feng felt his willpower faltering.

She really is deserving her title as the Demon Queen, Shi Feng inwardly sighed.

If anyone else stood in his place right now, Phoenix Rain might have conquered them already.

Although Phoenix Rain appeared charming and gentle on the surface, her beauty and melodic voice capable of even toppling cities and countries, Shi Feng knew just how terrifying the woman was.

If anyone dared write her off as a pinup, they must suffer some sort of brain damage.

Even the insufferably arrogant Nine Dragons Emperor feared Phoenix Rain.

After pretending to hesitate repeatedly, Shi Feng finally slapped his thigh and said, “Alright, then. I agree to your proposal. However, if the conditions you state are, in any way, unfavorable to Zero Wing or the Candlelight Trading Firm, I can only apologize to you in advance.”

“I knew Guild Leader Black Flame would be a pleasant person to work with!” Phoenix Rain hurriedly said. “However, I don’t want others to know about this matter; only you and I are allowed to know. May we move to a more private location?”

“Okay, follow me, then.”

Saying so, Shi Feng led Phoenix Rain to a VIP reception room. The room offered luxury and comfort. Moreover, it was also not possible for others to listen in on their conversation.

Chapter 565: The Offer

The VIP reception room on the second floor was like an entirely different world.

The rich fragrance of flowers and the chirping of birds filled the room. One could also see green mountains and blue creeks in the distance. The space inside this room looked just like the garden in paradise.

“As expected of a 2-star Shop. It actually offers such an impressive location,” Phoenix Rain expressed her admiration as she surveyed her surroundings.

“If Phoenix Pavilion Master likes it, you can easily obtain one for yourself. Although a 1-star Shop has less space and available environments to choose from, this garden environment is also available in a 1-star Shop,” Shi Feng laughed.

God’s Domain was not considered a different world without reason.

While nearly everything that could be found in the real world existed in God’s Domain, things that did not exist in the real world could also be found here.

In God’s Domain, the available activities were not limited to just killing monsters and leveling up. They could also enjoy a leisurely life here.

However, the extremely realistic sensations that God’s Domain offered was not its most attractive aspect. Instead, it was the time dilation.

This was the greatest scientific creation of mankind in this century, and only God’s Domain had managed to implement this function. No other virtual reality game had achieved this feat. This was also the main reason for God’s Domain’s popularity.

The flow of time in God’s Domain was twice as slow as that in the real world. In other words, God’s Domain’s players could theoretically live twice as long as ordinary people in the real world. Moreover, activities such as learning, relaxation, and resting could all be done in God’s Domain. People could have more time to do what they wished inside the game world.

In the real world, there were only 24 hours in a single day. An ordinary student like Shi Feng would normally commit five or six hours of their day to study. Sleep also occupied roughly nine hours. After deducting the time spent eating and other necessary activities to sustain one’s life, a student like Shi Feng would only have around five or six hours of free time.

Meanwhile, each day in God’s Domain had 48 hours!

In other words, a student in God’s Domain could possibly have up to 30 hours of free time, five times that of ordinary people. Who wouldn’t want to live such a life? Not to mention, the Main God System was constantly expanding the world of God’s Domain, allowing this virtual world to become more realistic, interesting, and mysterious. Who wouldn’t be tempted by something like this?

“Guild Leader Black Flame must be joking. Although I really wish to obtain a house like this for myself, unfortunately, Ordinary Shops are no good. Such an environment is only available in Luxury Shops. Meanwhile, constructing a Luxury Shop requires 1,000 Gold. I already wish I could spend 1,000 Gold as if it were 2,000, so where would I possibly find so much money laying around to construct a Luxury Shop?” Phoenix Rain shook her head, a hint of disappointment flashing in her eyes as she surveyed the room’s elegance.

Even large Guilds had their own troubles to face.

A small Guild had few members, so it was relatively easy to manage. Thus, the Guild required less money to sustain it. On the other hand, it was extremely complex to manage a large Guild that had a large number of members. A super-first-rate Guild like the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion was even more frightening. There were many aspects that required money. It was especially true during the initial stages of the game. It was like investing into a bottomless pit.

Fortunately, Guild Residences allowed the Pavilion to earn some money through Guild Quests. In addition, the trading firms and the raiding teams that had already taken shape had also begun to profit the Pavilion, allowing them to invest less as a result.

However, in terms of extravagance, no one throughout all of God’s Domain could compete with the Candlelight Trading Firm.

“Phoenix Pavilion Master, nobody will be able to listen in on our conversation here. You should be able to state your condition now, right?” Although Phoenix Rain had presented herself weak all this time, Shi Feng refused to believe that the woman was as simple as she made herself out to be. For just one simple condition, she had personally run all the way from the Black Dragon Empire to White River City and had even gifted him an Epic Treasure Chest.

“Before I reveal it, I hope that you will first sign this confidentiality contract,” Phoenix Rain said. She then revealed a contract that she had prepared, placing it on the table. Quite seriously, she said, “It is not that I do not believe Guild Leader Black Flame, but this matter is simply too important to take risks. If a third party discovered this situation, it would not benefit either of us.”

Shi Feng picked up the contract and gave it a careful read. Indeed, it was a very common confidentiality contract.

Under the surveillance of the Main God System, it was impossible to reveal any secrets covered by a confidentiality contract in the game. Of course, the Main God System could not control any leaks in the real world.

“Aren’t you afraid that I will reveal it outside of God’s Domain?” Shi Feng asked.

“I believe that Guild Leader Black Flame is an intelligent person, so please don’t ask such a foolish question,” Phoenix Rain said, her hand covering her mouth as she chuckled softly.

“It was just a joke.” Shi Feng then signed the contract.

The moment Shi Feng finished his signature, the notification sound of the system immediately rang by his ears.

System: Contract established. If either party violates the contract, the violator will be banished from God’s Domain.

Although the system’s female voice sounded crisp and pleasing, its words would give anyone goosebumps.

Banished from God’s Domain. Moreover, there was only one condition. Any player who wished to live in God’s Domain would not dare violate this condition.

After hearing the system notification, Phoenix Rain smiled at Shi Feng as she said, “In reality, my condition is very simple. I just wish to obtain a portion of the Candlelight Trading Firm’s shares, but in my own name, not the Phoenix Pavilion’s and, even more so, not the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s.

“Of course, I will provide even more benefits. The simplest would be Land for Shops. You should know that Reputation is required to purchase a good plot of Land in every city. Although one can obtain it through sub-sales, the strategic plots of Land in every city are not something an ordinary Guild can obtain easily. Currently, Zero Wing might have secured the best plots of Land available in Star-Moon Kingdom’s two largest cities, what about the important cities in other countries?

“If the Candlelight Trading Firm is to grow, it will require a larger market. I am sure that you will not be satisfied with just ruling over these two cities, right?

“I can provide this convenience. I can allow the Candlelight Trading Firm to obtain the valuable plots of Land available in the main cities of many kingdoms and empires. In addition, I also have plenty of connections that can enable you to obtain raw materials cheaply, as well as provide you with the forging designs and recipes obtainable from Dungeons. You won’t have to worry about collecting and purchasing these things yourself. Of course, this matter will be carried out discreetly. I will not reveal my involvement.

“More importantly, I am not your enemy. Nine Dragons Emperor might have a grudge against you, but I do not stand with him. To be more precise, I stand with you. May I know what Guild Leader Black Flame thinks of my proposal?”

At this moment, Shi Feng was silent.

Phoenix Rain’s proposal was indeed generous.

A super-first-rate Guild’s background was extraordinary. Compared to him, Phoenix Rain would have a much easier time obtaining the golden Lands of the major cities in the various kingdoms and empires. Moreover, it was also impossible for him to get players of other kingdoms to resell their Lands. Nobody would be so foolish as to give away their benefits to someone else, particularly to the Candlelight Trading Firm, a trading firm with massive advantages.

Moreover, just as Phoenix Rain had said, she was not his enemy.

On the surface, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion might seem like a single Guild, but in reality, the Pavilion was two Guilds joined as one. If not for that mysterious Great Pavilion Master maintaining the balance, the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion might immediately break into two separate Guilds.

“How many shares do you want?” Shi Feng asked.

“Since it is I who have come in search of Guild Leader Black Flame for cooperation, I will leave that decision up to you!” Phoenix Rain giggled. “I believe that, after seeing my sincerity, based on Guild Leader Black Flame’s personality and reputation, you will not take advantage of this young lady, right?”

Chapter 566: Epic Treasure Chest Secured

Shi Feng fell silent upon hearing Phoenix Rain’s words.

Negotiations were normal when one sought cooperation, and people would normally strive to obtain the greatest benefits for themselves.

This might seem like a smart move, but contrary to popular belief, it placed one at a disadvantage. As neither side knew the other party’s bottom line, the one to make the first offer would reveal their bottom line to their opponent.

Moreover, after Phoenix Rain had said as much, how could he possibly take advantage of her?

Even after a long moment, Shi Feng did not answer. However, Phoenix Rain was not anxious in the slightest. On the contrary, she leisurely admired the scenery.

“Twenty percent. What do think?” Shi Feng finally said after pondering for some time.

“Twenty percent?” Phoenix Rain was stunned, looking at Shi Feng as if saying, “Are you kidding me?”

The connections the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion possessed were exactly what the trading firm needed most, as having a wide range of connections meant that more people would purchase the trading firm’s products. Not to mention, the Candlelight Trading Firm would also get its hands on a large supply of raw materials, recipes, and forging designs. These were items that a trading firm lacked the most.

Currently, although the Candlelight Trading Firm’s range of influence had grown quite wide, it only had control over two truly useful cities. One was White River City, while the other was Star-Moon City. If the Candlelight Trading Firm worked with her, it could spread its influence to dozens of major cities. The profit it could rake in at that time would surpass its current income dozens of times.

Meanwhile, the only things the Candlelight Trading Firm could offer in this cooperation was Coins and products such as the Intermediate Mana Armor Kits, Light Stones, and Basic Strengthened Armor Kits. Aside from that, there was nothing special about the Candlelight Trading Firm.

Yet, Shi Feng had only offered her 20% of the Firm’s shares.

Normally, anyone else would willingly offer 50%, or even 60%, of the Firm’s shares.

“That’s right, 20%. This is the most that I can offer. If you cannot accept this amount, we can let it go at that,” Shi Feng said earnestly.

Phoenix Rain did not know that, before this, Shi Feng’s offer to Gentle Snow was only 15% of Zero Wing’s shares. Moreover, this included the annexation of Ouroboros. Although Phoenix Rain could provide far more connections than Ouroboros, currently, such things were unnecessary to Shi Feng.

Cooperating with Phoenix Rain would provide him with a massive advantage during the early stages of the game. However, at its core, a trading firm relied not on connections, but on the products it sold.

To become iron, the metal itself must be strong.

Take the Overwhelming Trading Firm for example. Even though it possessed more connections than the Candlelight Trading Firm, so what?

If not for the Flame Dragon Potion, the Overwhelming Trading Firm would have long since lost its competitive edge.

As long as a trading firm possessed a product unique to itself, there was no need to fear a lack of customers.

For example, if the Candlelight Trading Firm sold an Epic item, even players from other kingdoms and empires would willingly foot the exorbitant teleportation fee to visit the Trading Firm.

Most importantly, the Candlelight Trading Firm possessed an advantage that no other trading firm possessed, and that was the Special Workshops available only in 2-star Shops or above. With these Workshops, the Candlelight Trading Firm could nurture a large number of Forgers and other Lifestyle players. Not only was this method efficient, but it was also cost-efficient.

Although it was a good thing to have many connections, it would be meaningless if the trading firm could not keep up with production. It was like looking at a treasure chest that one could not obtain.

Both the Intermediate Mana Armor Kits and the Fire Dragon Potions had very low production volumes. The number of people that could actually purchase them was very low. The main reason behind the Candlelight Trading Firm’s triumph over the Overwhelming Trading Firm was mainly the common product known as Light Stones.

Phoenix Rain’s offer was only icing on the cake. The fact that Shi Feng was willing to offer her 20% of the Candlelight Trading Firm’s shares was entirely because of the future development potential between them, not because of the immediate profits.

“Guild Leader Black Flame really is confident in the Candlelight Trading Firm. If so, I am relieved.” Phoenix Rain smiled as she said, “Alright, then. Since I was the one who told Guild Leader Black Flame to make the offer, I won’t go back on my word. If it’s only 20%, so be it. When the time comes, I will send someone discreet to contact you. In addition, I will also send you reports on the cities of other kingdoms and empires. If Guild Leader Black Flame wishes to develop further in whichever city or require certain items, you can notify that person. That person will handle everything for you.”

Following which, the two signed a contract to seal the deal.

Phoenix Rain’s decisiveness had surprised Shi Feng slightly.

“Phoenix Pavilion Master, don’t you feel that you are suffering a loss here?” Shi Feng asked, laughing.

Any normal person would undoubtedly refuse such a seemingly harsh offer. They would choose to develop their own trading firm instead. At the very least, they would be in control of said trading firm. However, even after his firm statement, Phoenix Rain had accepted the offer without hesitation.

“A loss?” Phoenix Rain shook her head. With an innocent gaze, she said, “I don’t feel that way at all because I can tell that you, Guild Leader Black Flame, feel yourself suffering an even greater loss.

“To put it bluntly, even though I have clearly offered you such benefits, you still don’t seem to care all that much and have offered me such a low price. The only reason I can think of for such a reaction is that the Candlelight Trading Firm is still hiding some secret that I do not know of, and that its true value is much higher than what I have offered you today. In that case, shouldn’t I be even more accepting of your offer?”

Phoenix Rain’s words left Shi Feng completely speechless.

She was truly deserving her title as the Demon Queen. With her existence, it was no wonder why even Super Guilds had acknowledged the Dragon-Phoenix Pavilion’s status.

After Phoenix Rain quietly left…

Shi Feng looked at the Epic Treasure Chest left behind by Phoenix Rain, a grin appearing on his face.

He was fully capable of opening the Epic Treasure Chest.

Throughout this transaction, no matter how one looked at it, he was the one who had come out on top. If Phoenix Rain discovered this, she would certainly be disappointed.

“I wonder what kind of item I can get from an Epic Treasure Chest?” Shi Feng muttered, anticipation growing in his heart.

In his memories, he had never even heard of an Epic Treasure Chests. As for what he could obtain from one, he could only guess. Regardless of what item it was, it would be Epic ranked at the very least.

However, how could a single Epic item satisfy him? In order to reap the greatest benefit from this Epic Treasure Chest, Shi Feng decided not to open it immediately, but to wait.

The involvement of Luck when opening a treasure chest was too significant to ignore. Currently, Icarus’s Heart was only Dark-Gold rank; it had yet to reach its evolution limit. Moreover, he was only a short distance from upgrading the necklace to Epic rank. With a little more time, he was confident that he could collect the remaining Life Force points required and upgrade the Icarus’s Heart once more.

After all, Dark-Gold rank was only the standards of mortals. Meanwhile, Epic rank belonged to the extraordinary. There was a qualitative difference between the two. When the Icarus’s Heart reached Epic rank, it would provide far more Luck.

His wisest option was to open the Epic Treasure Chest at that time.

The first thing he needed to do was collect plenty of Magic Crystals.

The Magic Crystals required to produce eighty-eight Mana Stones was no small number. Not to mention, there was also the Divine Colosseum, which would reveal itself in the future; that place was a bottomless pit meant for devouring Magic Crystals.

Following which, Shi Feng stored away the Epic Treasure Chest and left the VIP reception room. He then headed towards the Starstreak Trading Firm.

Originally, the Starstreak Trading Firm had been the most flourishing trading firm in White River City. However, with the rise of the Candlelight Trading Firm, the Starstreak Trading Firm’s popularity had begun to roll downhill. Currently, the only reason that players still visited this place was to purchase some common products that only NPCs sold. Even so, the Starstreak Trading Firm still offered Shi Feng a lot of benefits.

An NPC had established the Starstreak Trading Firm. Including White River City, it had Shops in a total of eight cities. Moreover, unlike player-owned Shops, there was no city tax on the goods available in its Shops. Hence, Shi Feng still sold some advanced goods at the Starstreak Trading Firm, though that was only limited to the Shops located in cities without the Candlelight Trading Firm.

“Your Excellency Ye Feng, you’ve arrived,” Anna, who was currently busy with work, hurriedly greeted Shi Feng when she saw him enter the President’s Office.

“Yes, please notify President Henry and tell him that I have completed the task he entrusted me with.” Shi Feng nodded in reply. He then said, “However, I want to change my remuneration.”