Reincarnation of The Strongest Sword God

2610-2619

Chapter 2610 - Frightening Zero Wing

"I'm dreaming, right? Sinful Flame actually lost?"

"This is too absurd! Are you sure that girl's not an old monster in disguise?!"

"That shouldn't be the case. I feel that she might be a disguised NPC of Zero Wing's. Otherwise, how could a measly Tier 3 player control 36 blades with power at the Tier 4 standard?"

It took a long time for the match's results to sink in. However, when everyone snapped out of their daze, they could not help but question this match, feeling that Violet Cloud wasn't human.

Sinful Flame's strength was deeply rooted in everyone's hearts. Nobody present had believed that Violet Cloud could defeat him. In fact, they had initially doubted that she could even get him to take her seriously.

However, Violet Cloud had not only gotten Sinful Flame to use his full strength but even defeated the man. Moreover, she had achieved such an overwhelming victory that Sinful Flame couldn't retaliate and had no choice but to concede the battle. The spectators couldn't wrap their heads around the thought of such a huge disparity in combat power between Violet Cloud and Sinful Flame.

Sinful Flame represented the very apex of players in God's Domain, yet a little girl in her teens just surpassed this apex —and had even done so in a situation where both sides possessed equal Basic Attributes. Violet Cloud's achievement defied common sense.

While everyone present had seen geniuses before, even those geniuses had their limits. Violet Cloud could no longer be considered just a genius. After all, her achievements were simply impossible for current players.

At this moment, let alone the various spectating powers, even the members of Azure found this situation unbelievable. This was especially true for Solitary Frost and Duan Hanshan, who stood below the stage.

"Wonder wasn't bluffing..." When Solitary Frost thought back to the words Silent Wonder said before, he was stunned. "What kind of Guild is this Zero Wing?"

When Silent Wonder declared that there were much younger and stronger people than herself in Zero Wing, Solitary Frost had felt that she was only trying to advertise and uplift her Guild.

Back when he was undergoing training at Violet Sword, he had sparred with many of Violet Sword's young talents. However, less than a handful of them managed to put up a fight against him, much less defeat him.

The fact that Silent Wonder surpassed him was already a miracle. Moreover, even on the eastern continent, Zero Wing was only a pseudo-superpower. How could such a Guild nurture a youngster that was stronger than Silent Wonder?

Now, however, it was proven that not only had Zero Wing produced a youngster that was much stronger than Solitary Frost, but the youngster in question was even stronger than the legendary Sinful Flame.

"How can a little girl from Zero Wing become that strong? Could this be why the Long Family insists on letting Silent Wonder remain in Zero Wing?" Duan Hanshan suddenly felt enlightened as he looked at Violet Cloud before turning his gaze to Long Wushang and the other members of the Long Family.

Duan Hanshan was well aware of Silent Wonder's combat talent. Let alone the Long Family's Silk Moon, Silent Wonder was inferior to even Yan Xiaoqian in this regard. Needless to say, she was even more inferior to the combat maniac Solitary Frost.

Previously, when Silent Wonder defeated Solitary Frost, Duan Hanshan could still dismiss the feat as a result of Silent Wonder having an epiphany. After all, while Silent Wonder's talents were inferior to those of the other prodigies of Azure, she was still undoubtedly a prodigy herself. It wouldn't be strange for her to raise her combat power by a large margin after gaining fresh insight.

However, Violet Cloud's performance forced Duan Hanshan to conclude that Silent Wonder's sudden growth shouldn't have anything to do with gaining enlightenment at all. Instead, Zero Wing was most likely the cause.

After thinking up to this point, Duan Hanshan started pondering on new plans.

For Azure's various shareholder families, the younger generation represented their future. The members of the younger generation would also serve as the Guild's representatives in the future. Hence, nurturing the younger generation in Azure was of paramount importance.

In virtual reality games, so long as one had sufficient strength, there wouldn't be a need to worry about lacking a path. This was especially true in God's Domain, which functioned as a second world for humans. God's Domain could even extend the lifespan people could experience by a large margin. For people with strength, God's Domain's appearance represented the start of a golden era.

This was also the reason why Azure's various shareholder families were desperately trying to retain the Zeus Corporation's support.

In God's Domain, strength was the foundation of everything. Without strength, one would be nothing.

However, while Duan Hanshan was having such thoughts, Long Wushang, who stood some distance away from him, remained in a daze.

At this moment, complicated feelings roiled Long Wushang's heart. He simply did not know whether to cry or laugh. Not only had Silent Wonder won against Solitary Frost and shone brightly in the family competition, but she had even received a challenge from Sinful Flame, which boosted the opinion of Azure's independent Elders and Grand Elders of her.

Now, Violet Cloud had even beaten Sinful Flame, a feat nobody had ever dreamed of accomplishing.

Zero Wing's ability to nurture talents truly surpassed Long Wushang's imagination.

With Zero Wing's help, the Long Family might really be able to do without the Zeus Corporation's support. After all, the Long Family had funds aplenty. What they needed were only the Zeus Corporation's various resources and connections.

When Long Wushang thought back to how he was planning to negotiate with Zero Wing to have it stop hindering Silent Wonder's future, he found his thoughts laughable.

Meanwhile, as everyone was expressing doubt and astonishment over this match, Sinful Flame walked up to Violet Cloud.

"I don't care what others say; I am sincerely convinced of my loss," Sinful Flame said earnestly as he looked at Violet Cloud. "Only, may I ask you a question?"

"What is it?" Violet Cloud asked. Since Sinful Flame was so open-minded about his defeat, she did not refuse his question.

Upon hearing Violet Cloud's response, Sinful Flame quickly asked, "How did you manage to elevate the density of your Mana to such an extent just now? Didn't you fully unlock your Mana Body already?"

He was filled with curiosity about Violet Cloud's sudden transformation.

At the start of the fight, he had already sensed the Mana Violet Cloud's body radiated, which made him absolutely certain she had fully unlocked her Mana Body already. The Spells she used later on only served to confirm his conjecture. However, at the end of the match, the density of the Mana she radiated and the power of her Spells had further increased by a large margin. He simply couldn't understand how she had accomplished this feat.

"It's nothing. I just managed to break through the 100% limit of my Mana Body; hence, I was able to release much stronger Mana," Violet Cloud explained calmly.

The fact that the Mana Body could be unlocked past the 100% threshold wasn't much of a secret. In her opinion, it was only a matter of time before an expert like Sinful Flame accomplished this feat as well. After all, if even she could break through the 100% limit, there was no way Sinful Heart, who boasted much higher combat standards than she did, could not. She had managed to do so much sooner than Sinful Flame only because of the many resources Zero Wing had provided.

"You can actually unlock the Mana Body past the 100% threshold?" Sinful Flame exclaimed in surprise.

Currently, he was already close to unlocking 100% of his Mana Body's potential. In his opinion, 100% should mean perfection. Moreover, the system should've set it to be so, as well. It never occurred to him that the Mana Body could be unlocked beyond 100%.

Violet Cloud's words opened the doors to a whole new world for him.

Then, is there anyone else in your Guild that has managed to exceed 100%?" Sinful Flame asked.

Having experienced the strength players would gain from having a Mana Body unlocked beyond the 100% threshold, he knew that such players wouldn't be capable of truly fighting against Tier 4 existences. However, they would still be dose to rivaling Tier 4 existences and were on a completely different level from ordinary Tier 3 existences.

"This... I don't know, but there are a few other people who are roughly equal in strength with me. There are also quite a few people stronger than me," Violet Cloud replied after giving the matter some thought.

"There are still a few others that are stronger than you?" Sinful Flame reflexively turned to look at Shi Feng and the other Zero Wing members seated in the spectator stands, when he heard Violet Cloud's words. He suddenly felt as if his worldview was collapsing.

Violet Cloud was already inhumanly strong, yet Zero Wing actually had a few more experts that were stronger than her? Just what kind of Guild was Zero Wing?

However, the discussions did not continue for long before Azure's family competition resumed. Only, the subsequent matches paled in comparison to the first two matches of this competition. And to everyone's disappointment, nothing surprising occurred.

In the end, Silent Wonder won first place in the competition, Solitary Frost came in second, with Yan Xiaoqian in third, and Burning Owl in fourth. The Long Family thoroughly occupied the spotlight for the competition this time. Many of Azure's independent Elders and Grand Elders even started engaging Silent Wonder in small talk, the scene rendering the members of the other shareholder families speechless. Some families were even wondering if they should approach the Long Family.

"Solitary, what should we do? How do we explain this to the instructor?" Yan Xiaoqian asked Solitary Frost, who was standing quietly beside her, when she saw Silent Wonder surrounded by Azure's independent Elders and Grand Elders.

"What else can we do but tell the truth?" Solitary Frost sighed. "If you are afraid of telling him, I'll do it."

Following which, Solitary Frost contacted Violet Sword's Instructor Torre and braced himself to report everything that had happened in the family competition. 

Chapter 2611 - The Flame Bearer

Holy Flame City, Violet Sword's Residence:

Inside an ancient castle made out of meteorite, over 50 Level 100-plus players were currently sparring and training various combat techniques. Not only did these players possess very high combat standards—with even the weakest person being at the Refinement Realm standard and the majority being at the Flowing Water Realm standard—but every one of them could also smoothly integrate their Skills or Spells with their combat techniques. Their level of skill was far superior to ordinary Refinement Realm experts'.

"All of you, work harder! Activating the Ancient Star Castle costs a lot of Mana Stones, and only a limited number of people can train inside it each time! If you can't pass this week's integration test, then the others waiting in line will replace you!" a dark-gray armored, middle-aged man with a knife scar on his face shouted as he monitored the players training inside the castle.

"Instructor Wildfighter, your requirements are too high. Not everybody is like Solitary Frost, able to perfectly integrate Advanced Combat Techniques into our Spells in just one week," a redheaded woman in blue mage robes, standing beside the middle-aged man, said while shaking her head.

"I have already lowered my requirements significantly. They only need to gain a basic foundation in integrating Advanced Combat Techniques with Skills or Spells in 10 days. If it were Solitary Frost, I would've given him three days' maximum. However, even though they have spent more than half of their given time, these newcomers are still stuck integrating Basic Combat Techniques. It seems the Guild's new recruits are becoming weaker with each passing generation," Wildfighter said in dissatisfaction as he eyed the group of players training before him. "They are far inferior to our generation."

"Our generation?" The redheaded woman revealed a bitter smile at Wildfighter's words. "The commander was the only monster that came out of our generation. I don't think that everyone else in our generation was much better than these newcomers."

"Why are you being humble? Your talent is not the slightest bit inferior to Solitary Frost's. It's just that you were made to learn too many things at once. In contrast, Solitary Frost's training is very specific. Otherwise, you would've become the commander of the Guild's second trump card legion by now," Wildfighter said, rolling his eyes at the redheaded woman.

The redhead's name was Crimson Star. She was someone the Secret Pavilion had nicknamed the Thousand-hand Witch. At the same time, she was one of the vice commanders of Violet Sword's strongest trump card legion. In terms of combat standards, she was not the slightest bit weaker than Wildfighter. In fact, if the two of them were to have a duel, his chances of winning would be below 30%.

"Regardless, it seems you think very highly of Solitary Frost. You even held back during the previous match and let him finish with a draw to boost his confidence and pride," Crimson Star said.

"Don't say anything about this matter. I might've held back that time but only my trump card. Solitary Frost is still very young, with plenty of room for growth. It is only a matter of time before I lose to him," Wildfighter said, smiling. "Moreover, isn't it because of that battle that Instructor Torre became willing to teach him?"

"That's true. I never thought that Instructor Torre would still be willing to teach someone. I was quite surprised when I heard about it. It's a pity that the Guild lacks Master Lifestyle players, and producing that item takes too much time. Otherwise, Solitary Frost could enter the ancient secret land and receive Instructor Torre's personal guidance. If that happened, he'd definitely be able to beat you once he came out of the secret land," Crimson Star said, nodding in agreement with Wildfighter's words.

"I believe it won't be long before that changes. Now that Solitary Frost's group have returned to participate in Azure's family competition, the Long Family's fate is sealed. If the Long Family still wishes to retain its ruling rights over Azure, they will have to listen obediently and produce that item for us. Otherwise, the Zeus Corporation will hand Azure's ruling rights to another family," Wildfighter said in a definitive tone.

"I heard that the Long Family has a very powerful genius called Silk Moon. Her strength has always been second to only Solitary Frost. If Silk Moon secures second place in the competition, the Long Family might not submit to us," Crimson Star commented.

"Rest assured, Instructor Torre personally provided Yan Xiaoqian with guidance and helped raise her strength considerably. So long as Silk Moon hasn't reached the Domain Realm yet, she'll be no match for Yan Xiaoqian," Wildfighter stated confidently.

Solitary Frost might be an exceptional genius, but Yan Xiaoqian wasn't much inferior to him, either. Only, she devoted much of her time to alchemy, so she couldn't capitalize on her talent in combat. However, after receiving guidance from Torre, her strength had definitely reached the peak of Void Realm experts.

"I don't know whether Silk Moon has reached the Domain Realm or not, but I stumbled across a rumor stating that the Flame Bearer is instructing Silk Moon. While I still haven't confirmed the specifics of this information, the friend I got it from says the source is reliable, so there's a 90% chance that it's true," Crimson Star warned.

"What? Silk Moon actually caught the eye of the Flame Bearer? How is that possible? Even when Instructor Torre personally requested the Flame Bearer to guide the commander, the Flame Bearer still rejected his request. How could that little girl catch the Flame Bearer's eye?" Wildfighter was surprised at the information Crimson Star revealed.

The Flame Bearer was a legend of sorts in the virtual gaming world. Nobody knew the Flame Bearer's identity. Nobody even knew the Flame Bearer's age. However, there was no doubt about the Flame Bearer's existence, as the Flame Bearer was responsible for nurturing quite a few of the virtual gaming world's shining stars. According to rumors, even Mythology's Guild Leader had received guidance from the Flame Bearer—which enabled him to surpass his peers and develop Mythology into one of the Five Great Super Guilds.

Now, however, a little girl from the Azure Chamber of Commerce was rumored to be receiving guidance from the same Flame Bearer, as well. In terms of talent, Silk Moon was much worse than Solitary Frost and the current commander of Violet Sword's strongest trump card legion, yet the Flame Bearer had actually chosen to guide her. Wildfighter couldn't bring himself to believe this.

"I don't know, but rumor has it that the Flame Bearer has a unique way of selecting people to nurture. Maybe Silk Moon has some special qualities of her own," Crimson Star said, shaking her head. In reality, she was also curious as to why the Flame Bearer would choose Silk Moon.

"If Silk Moon really is receiving guidance from the Flame Bearer, then Yan Xiaoqian is in danger," Wildfighter said worriedly.

Wildfighter did not doubt that Solitary Frost would secure first place in Azure's family competition—even if Silk Moon received guidance from the Flame Bearer. After all, there was a qualitative difference between the Domain Realm and the Void Realm, preventing players from jumping from the Void Realm to the Domain Realm within a short period. Otherwise, Domain Realm experts wouldn't be so rare.

However, while securing first place wasn't a problem for Solitary Frost's group, securing second place would. After all, Yan Xiaoqian still hadn't reached the Domain Realm yet.

While Wildfighter and Crimson Star were having their quiet discussion, a white-haired old man entered the training hall. Upon noticing this old man, Wildfighter and Crimson Star promptly went up to greet him.

This was because this old man was none other than Instructor Torre, a legendary figure in Violet Sword.

However, as soon as Torre arrived, a chilly aura filled the training hall. Even Wildfighter and Crimson Star shuddered involuntarily upon sensing this aura.

"Instructor Torre, didn't you send Solitary Frost's group to take part in Azure's family competition? Did something happen?" Wildfighter asked, curious. Judging by the chilling aura Torre released, he could tell that something was amiss.

"I went but had to leave for some business. However, as soon as I was done with my work, I received a message from Solitary Frost stating that they lost in Azure's family competition. Someone from the Long Family secured first place!" Torre snarled.

They lost? Solitary Frost lost? How is that possible?" Wildfighter was stunned by Torre's words. He promptly asked, "Could it be the Long Family's Silk Moon?"

"No. I heard that it's the Long Family's second young lady, Silent Wonder," Torre replied, shaking his head.

"It's not Silk Moon?" Wildfighter's eyes widened in shock at this revelation. For a moment, he suspected that Torre was lying to him. "Isn't Silent Wonder an alchemy expert? Moreover, according to previous reports, she's only at the Flowing Water Realm. How could she possibly win against Solitary Frost?"

In a competition where only combat standards mattered, how could a Flowing Water Realm expert defeat a Domain Realm expert?

"Now that the Long Family has secured first place, doesn't that mean they will have a stable hold on Azure's ruling rights?" Crimson Star asked, frowning.

Master Lifestyle players were crucial for Violet Sword's development, especially Master Alchemists. Meanwhile, Silent Wonder, who was only half a step from becoming a Grandmaster Alchemist, was someone Violet Sword urgently needed.

"You don't need to worry about that. I believe the Zeus Corporation will deal with this matter. When the time comes, the Long Family will have to submit, even if they don't want to," Torre said coldly. "However, Solitary Frost's group has truly disappointed me. They actually lost to a little girl who hasn't even reached the Domain Realm yet. It seems I have been too lenient toward them. After they return, tell them that they don't have to meet me. Have them properly reflect on themselves."

He had never once worried about Violet Sword's plan failing. Moreover, he never imagined that the group would lose to someone with significantly inferior combat standards despite him providing Solitary Frost and the others with direct guidance.

This was simply humiliating!

Wildfighter was shocked when he heard Torre's words. Hurriedly, he tried to persuade Torre, saying, "Instructor Torre, isn't this a little—"

However, before Wildfighter could say anything more, a Tier 3 Assassin rushed toward them.

"Reporting: Someone calling themself Zero Wing's Guild Leader has arrived outside our Residence and wishes to negotiate with our Guild's upper echelon regarding the Azure Chamber of Commerce's matters. Do you wish to meet him?" the Tier 3 Assassin said respectfully.

"Zero Wing? Isn't that the Guild Silent Wonder has been staying at all this time?" Wildfighter commented, his curiosity piqued. "What are they here for? Could they be here to convince us to change our plans for Azure?"

"An unknown Guild wants to meet us? What kind of Guild do they take Violet Sword for?" Glaring at the Tier 3 Assassin, Torre ordered coldly, "Tell them to get lost!"

Chapter 2612 - Negotiation Qualifications

Torre's harsh rejection drove a chill down everyone's spines. The players in the hall felt an intense pressure bear down on them, and some of the Refinement Realm trainees could barely even move...

Instinctual fear welled within the Tier 3 Assassin that had reported Zero Wing's arrival. If he hadn't been certain that he wasn't Torre's target, he would've likely turned and fled.

Instructor Torre has such high hopes for Solitary Frost's group? Crimson Star was surprised to see the frosty look on Torre's face.

Torre had stopped teaching people over a decade ago. She and the current commander of Violet Sword's strongest trump card legion had been a part of his last student group. The commander had been Torre's favorite pupil. Torre had even gone to great lengths to seek the Flame Bearer's help in training the commander.

Hence, Violet Sword's upper echelons had been stunned when Torre had agreed to train Solitary Frost's group.

Crimson Star assumed Torre had only agreed out of respect for the Zeus Corporation, but seeing his reaction now, it seemed he had honestly wanted to help Solitary Frost's group grow stronger. If he hadn't been so invested, he wouldn't have been so furious about their defeat.

"I'm afraid that sending them away isn't wise, Instructor Torre. Zero Wing might not have much power on the western continent, but it can compete with many superpowers on the eastern continent. It even has control over the Dark World's Teleportation Gate. Since Zero Wing's Guild Leader has paid us a personal visit, others will criticize the Guild if we turn him away at the door," Wildfighter tried to persuade Torre.

Violet Sword was a veteran Super Guild. While Zero Wing wasn't based in the west, Violet Sword's intel network had investigated this smaller Guild. They weren't entirely unaware of Zero Wing's background. Even if they hadn't researched the Guild, it was difficult to avoid the name 'Zero Wing.' The Guild had become incredibly famous in the east, after all, and many superpowers were talking about Zero Wing.

"Did Zero Wing's Guild Leader come alone?" Crimson Star asked the Tier 3 Assassin.

"No. He came with a group of a dozen or so people. The Long Family's Long Wushang is with them, as well," the Assassin replied.

"The Long Family? They certainly didn't waste any time." Wildfighter could not help but frown.

After learning that the Long Family's second young miss had won Azure's competition this year, Wildfighter knew it would be difficult making the family obey. Now, Azure's strongest younger member was from the Long Family, and after all was said and done, the Zeus Corporation was merely one of the chamber's shareholders. It wasn't the largest shareholder. Once the rest of the shareholders saw the Long Family's potential, they would offer it their support. Threatening the Long Family's dominance in Azure would become incredibly difficult.

Because of this, the Long Family now qualified to negotiate with Violet Sword, and it had only been a matter of time before the family sent a representative.

However, Wildfighter hadn't expected the Long Family to act almost as soon as Azure's family competition had ended.

"It seems the Long Family has found its confidence. Otherwise, they wouldn't have shown up so soon," Crimson Star said.

"It's probably because of Zero Wing. The Guild has an alliance with Netherworld Empire, after all. In addition, Zero Wing is responsible for helping Silent Wonder win the competition. Obviously, Zero Wing is quite capable when it comes to nurturing talented players. The Long Family must think it'll do fine on its own, without support from Violet Sword or the Zeus Corporation," Wildfighter assumed.

The most important developmental aspects for any Guild were talented experts and resources. While Azure did not lack experts, it didn't have nearly as many resources as a veteran Super Guild like Violet Sword. If Azure wished to continue its development, it would have to ally with the Super Guild. This was exactly what Azure's various shareholder families and Grand Elders were pushing for.

However, if Azure no longer had to worry about nurturing its talented members, neither the Long Family nor the chamber itself would bother to ally with Violet Sword. Violet Sword was already demanding a high price for this alliance, and the partnership would basically transform Azure into one of Violet Sword's vassals. None of Azure's shareholders wanted this, but they had to agree due to the immense pressure the Zeus Corporation placed on them to agree.

"This is interesting. Show them to the reception room and make them wait for a while," Torre decided. "I'm interested to see what ability Zero Wing has to make the Long Family so confident!"

"Understood!"

The Tier 3 Assassin breathed a sigh of relief as Torre calmed down. He then ran back to the Residence's entrance.

Meanwhile, a crowd had formed outside of Violet Sword's Residence, embroiled in a heated discussion regarding Zero Wing's members.

The group of players was just too eye-catching.

Two gigantic Flying Mounts stood behind Zero Wing's members: an eagle, with arcs of electricity dancing across its body, and a Skeletal Dragon, radiating bursts of cold. Both Flying Mounts had auras on par with Grand Lords of the same level, and when they stood side-by-side, they were impossible to ignore.

"Crap! Who are these people?! They actually have two Mounts that rival Violet Sword's Netherflame Eagle!"

"What an amazing Guild! Violet Sword only has two Extraordinary Flying Mounts, yet these people have two, as well!"

At this stage of the game, Flying Mounts were still unattainable for most of God's Domain's players. Even the various large Guilds only had a few Flying Mounts, and most of those were common. Even so, it was enough to allow them to flaunt their strength.

Meanwhile, the various Super Guilds would go crazy for Extraordinary Flying Mounts, which could hold their own against Grand Lords of the same level. Not everyone could say the same. Even most Tier 3 experts would have to flee from such a monster. Only with a team of Tier 3 experts could take down Grand Lords of the same level.

However, not only could a Guild easily hunt Grand Lord ranked Field Bosses with an Extraordinary Flying Mount, but they could also broaden their sphere of activity, visiting far more dangerous locations in search of resources.

While passersby quietly discussed Zero Wing's two Flying Mounts, Long Wushang, who waited at the entrance to Violet Sword's Residence, began to grow nervous. He had never thought Shi Feng would go through with his claim and travel to Violet Sword as soon as Azure's family competition ended. The Swordsman hadn't even given Violet Sword any time to calm down after learning of its defeat.

The competition's outcome had as good as ruined the Zeus Corporation and Violet Sword's plans to take control of the Azure Chamber of Commerce. Needless to say, they'd be furious, and they'd definitely blame Zero Wing, the Guild that had played a major role in foiling their plans.

Although the Long Family and Zero Wing now qualified to negotiate with Zeus and Violet Sword, they shouldn't push for negotiations while the other side was still fuming. Not only would they fail to change the corporation and Super Guild's minds, but they might make the situation worse.

"Wonder, can you persuade your Guild Leader? I know he wants to negotiate with Violet Sword, but he shouldn't do so during such a precarious time," Long Wushang whispered to Silent Wonder. "At this rate, not only will negotiations fail, but Violet Sword might end up hating us. We'll lose our advantage in Azure."

Azure's Elders and Grand Elders did not particularly mind whether Azure partnered with Violet Sword or not, but becoming enemies would be a different story. If that happened, everything would be over for the Long Family. Too many of Azure's key resource areas were located within Violet Sword's territories, among others. If Violet Sword decided that it no longer cared about those resource areas, the other Super Guilds wouldn't hesitate to fight to claim the areas.

"I'll try my best," Silent Wonder said. She agreed with her elder's sentiments.

Zero Wing had barely any power in the west, while Violet Sword could easily deal a major blow to the Azure Chamber of Commerce. Furthermore, Zero Wing couldn't avoid Violet Sword if it wished to develop on the western continent. She did not wish to see her Guild face Violet Sword's wrath over her.

However, just as Silent Wonder was about to approach Shi Feng, a Tier 3 Assassin emerged from Violet Sword's Residence and walked up to Shi Feng, apologizing, "Sorry for the long wait, Guild Leader Black Flame. Please, follow me."

"Alright," Shi Feng replied, putting away his Thunder Eagle. He then followed the Assassin into the Residence, giving Silent Wonder no chance to intervene.

Upon entering the Super Guild's Residence, both Long Wushang and Silent Wonder were stunned.

Not only were the Violet Sword members in the Residence very high-leveled, but quite a few of them were also Tier 3 experts. Moreover, they spotted over 100 Refinement Realm experts with a glance.

When they reached the castle that acted as the Residence's core, they were even more stunned as they felt such dense Mana that it had condensed into a white fog. The entire castle felt ancient.

All of the Super Guild's members who entered and left the castle radiated astonishingly powerful auras, while quite a few were even stronger than Azure's young geniuses.

"So, this is Violet Sword."

Silent Wonder was amazed as she watched the dozen or so young, Tier 3 experts walk into the castle. Even a random group of players had so many Refinement Realm and Flowing Water Realm experts. Furthermore, this was only one of Violet Sword's many Residences, and the Guild had several training grounds. If Violet Sword gathered all of the new recruits, the sight would be awe-inspiring.

"Please, come in!" the Tier 3 Assassin leading the way said as he gestured to the Guild Hall before him. When he noticed Long Wushang's and Silent Wonder's astonishment, he felt pleased and proud.

Overall, Violet Sword might not be as powerful as the Five Great Super Guilds, but it was just as capable of nurturing talented players, which the Guild was quite proud of. No ordinary Super Guild could compare.

After a moment, the Tier 3 Assassin led Shi Feng and his companions into the top-floor reception room in the Guild Hall.

Three players, Torre, Wildfighter, and Crimson Star, already waited in the room. However, none of them bothered to conceal their auras, and the combined energy felt stifling. They were obviously trying to intimidate Zero Wing's representatives.

Sure enough. Long Wushang could not help but shake his head when he saw the three people. He knew these negotiations wouldn't end well. There wasn't even a point in continuing this facade. The pressure of their combined auras was simply too powerful. Even peak experts would struggle to breathe in the reception room, much less weaker players.

In Long Wushang's opinion, aside from Shi Feng, Silent Wonder, and Violet Cloud, withstanding these aggressive auras would be troublesome for their party.

Meanwhile, the Tier 3 Assassin from Violet Sword sneered at this sight. Zero Wing might be a pseudo-superpower, but Violet Sword was no ordinary Super Guild, and Zero Wing had no place trying to instigate negotiations on a whim.

"This room is really stuffy. Aqua, why don't you guys remove your cloaks? It'll be cooler for you that way," Shi Feng calmly suggested, never taking his eyes off of Torre and his two comrades.

Chapter 2613 - Astonishing Statistics, Zero Wing's Potential

Hearing Shi Feng's suggestion, the Tier 3 Assassin continued to sneer at the group.

Do they think they can withstand the instructors' auras just by removing their Black Cloaks?

The Black Cloak merely concealed some of a player's statistics but couldn't hide a player's aura. Everyone in God's Domain knew this.

Of course, there were tools that could conceal a player's aura, but those tools were extremely expensive and not practical. Furthermore, expert players could conceal their auras with their own skills. They didn't have to rely on such tools.

Even Long Wushang gave Shi Feng a strange look. He couldn't understand what the man was trying to do.

By removing their Black Cloaks, Aqua Rose and the others would only expose their statistics. That wouldn't help them withstand these three monsters' auras.

Torre, Wildfighter, and Crimson Star were all instructors in Violet Sword. Anyone that could become a Super Guild's instructor would also be a Grand Elder, absolute upper echelons in the Guild.

Super Guilds also acquired top-tier weapons and equipment each day. A veteran Super Guild like Violet Sword had likely seen every kind of weapon and equipment piece the game had to offer. Now that Violet Sword was in a fit of rage and intent on striking fear into their group to chase them away, not even full sets of top-tier weapons and equipment would be enough to change these three instructors' minds.

During the time the Tier 3 Assassin and Long Wushang wondered what Shi Feng intended, Aqua Rose and the others removed their Black Cloaks. When they saw these players statistics, the Assassin and Long Wushang nearly fainted from shock.

Level 117!

The moment the Black Cloaks were gone, these players' auras burst forth like erupting volcanoes. The ambient Mana rapidly gathered around them, creating a Mana vortex that thinned the rest of the Mana in the room. When the Tier 3 Assassin and Long Wushang realized that these auras rivaled that of Mythic monsters, they instinctively stepped back to a tolerable distance.

Meanwhile, Torre's group stared in astonishment when they saw Aqua Rose's and her companions' levels.

"Level 117?! How is this possible?! Even our Guild's leveling maniac has only reached Level 114! How did they get so powerful?!" Wildfighter exclaimed in the team chat, overwhelmed with shock as he stared at Zero Wing's players.

Their levels weren't the highest in the Guild since they normally trained Violet Sword's new recruits. They didn't have time to devote themselves to grinding for levels.

Even so, these three had never fallen behind the frontline players. The foreign energies in Level 100-plus maps were a burden, steadily corroding players' bodies and preventing them from grinding for long. Thus, as instructors, Torre and his comrades had to maintain their levels. Meanwhile, these three usually trained recruits while recuperating, and as a result, their levels weren't too far behind, even if their leveling speed wasn't the greatest. All three were currently Level 112, which most peak experts hadn't reached yet.

And yet, the players before them had five levels on them. How did they manage that?

Moreover, Zero Wing didn't have just one or two players at that level. All eight members, who had removed their Black Cloaks, had reached Level 117...

"No, I can sense that all of these people have fully unlocked their Mana Bodies. They shouldn't have used any special grinding methods to achieve such a high level," Crimson Star said, shaking her head.

In God's Domain, the only way to level up quickly was to grind monsters. The stronger the monsters players fought, the more EXP they'd gain. If players tried to grind monsters that were three levels lower than they were, they wouldn't even earn 50% of what they did when defeating monsters of the same level. If they tried grinding monsters six levels lower than they were, they wouldn't get any EXP at all.

While questing was also a reliable way to earn EXP, quests' main objective was to provide Coins, weapons, equipment, and special tools. The only way to level rapidly was to face powerful monsters of the same or higher level.

Because of this, no player with a high level in God's Domain was considered weak. In fact, most ordinary players saw a player's level as a direct representation of their strength.

Still shocked, the three instructors didn't realize Shi Feng had walked up to them. It had felt as if he had stood in the middle of the room all this time.

"Can we talk now?" Shi Feng asked, looking at each instructor in turn.

Only then did Wildfighter and Crimson Star realize that Shi Feng stood before them.

"Out with it. Why have you come to Violet Sword?" Torre asked, giving Shi Feng a serious look. He no longer displayed any rage or belittlement.

If Zero Wing had had only one player at Level 117, he would've, at most, been surprised and acknowledged the expert's strength, but not only did a whole group of Level 117 players stand before him, but they had also unlocked their Mana Bodies' full potential. This achievement couldn't just be the result of personal strength. Rather, it was a representation of the Guild's foundation and power.

Since Zero Wing had so many high-leveled experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies, the Guild earned his basic respect.

After seeing Silent Wonder and the others himself, Torre also understood why Silent Wonder had defeated Solitary Frost.

There wasn't much of a difference between the Basic Attributes of a player with a fully unlocked Mana Body and one without, but there was a colossal difference between their combat power. It was almost the difference of half a tier, which wasn't a gap that could be shortened with combat standards and techniques.

Although Solitary Frost was a Domain Realm expert, he was still quite young. He did not have much experience fighting opponents with more raw power. Hence, suffering defeat wasn't all that strange.

"You're surprisingly frank, Instructor Torre. In that case, I'll just come out with it," Shi Feng said, smiling at Torre, who had paid close attention to him since the moment he entered the room. "I'm here to discuss Silent Wonder's situation."

"Guild Leader Black Flame, if you wish to insist that she's a member of Zero Wing, not Azure, and thus doesn't need to develop in Violet Sword, don't bother. I will suggest that my superiors leave Silent Wonder alone," Wildfighter said.

Zero Wing didn't have much power on the western continent, but its potential was incredible. Becoming this pseudosuperpower's enemy over Silent Wonder would be truly unwise.

Besides, Violet Sword could still follow through with its plans, even without a Half-step Grandmaster Alchemist like Silent Wonder. At worst, their plans might take more time to complete.

Moreover, the Zeus Corporation was the main reason that Violet Sword had insisted on obtaining Silent Wonder, and the corporation had simply made the demand because the Long Family had refused to cooperate fully wdth Zeus's plan to unify the powers under its command. The Zeus Corporation only wanted to make an example out of the Long Family and was using Violet Sword to do so.

Long Wushang was stunned to hear Wildfighter give in so quickly.

The matter had been dealt with, just like that?

The Long Family had negotiated with the Zeus Corporation and Violet Sword many times, yet the two had refused to concede. They had even gone as far as to use Azure's ruling rights to threaten the family.

And yet, Shi Feng had just visited Violet Sword's Residence for the first time, briefly mentioned Silent Wonder, and Wildfighter had agreed to part with her. Long Wushang felt as if he stood in the wrong Guild's Residence.

Even Silent Wonder's mouth hung open in shock. She had never expected these negotiations to progress so smoothly.

Just as everyone assumed the negotiations were over, however, Shi Feng shook his head, saying, "No, I believe you've misunderstood something. I'm not here to talk about that."

"What do you wish to discuss, then?" Wildfighter asked, confused.

Hadn't Zero Wing come to dissuade Violet Sword from its plans?

"Zero Wing would like to partner with Violet Sword. I know your Guild has uncovered an ancient secret land, which requires special tools to enter. I suggest our Guilds work together. Zero Wing only wants 100 entry slots in exchange," Shi Feng said.

The fact that Violet Sword had relied on an ancient secret land to boost its development speed on the western continent hadn't been a secret in the past. The moment Long Wushang had shown up in Zero Wing's Residence, Shi Feng had remembered this secret land.

This ancient secret land held the key to completing the Tier 4 Promotion quest. It was the very reason that Violet Sword had nurtured plenty of Tier 4 experts in Shi Feng's past life. In fact, this Guild had commanded nearly twice as many Tier 4 experts as ordinary Super Guilds.

"Guild Leader Black Flame, are you insane? Do you know how many slots the secret land has in total? You're asking for half of the slots we have right now!" Crimson Star interjected.

The ancient secret land was a huge opportunity for Violet Sword to rise to prominence. Hence, every entry slot was incredibly precious, yet Zero Wing wanted half of them. Despite her conservative personality, Crimson Star accused Shi Feng of madness.

Shi Feng was merely offering the help of an Advanced Master Alchemist. It wasn't as if Violet Sword didn't have any of its own.

"What if I promise that I can help you capture the ancient secret land?" Shi Feng unhurriedly said, chuckling.

"Capture it? What kind of place do you think it is? Are you going to capture an ancient secret land with just 10 experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies?" Crimson Star mocked, smirking.[l]

Experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies were indeed precious right now, but Violet Sword could nurture quite a few with another two weeks. Many of the Super Guild's experts had already made considerable progress, and the Violet Sword was more than capable of capturing the ancient secret land without Zero Wing's experts. At most, doing so might take another two weeks.

"What if I offer the help of a hundred Tier 3 experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies?" Shi Feng asked, flashing Crimson Star a smug smile. 

Chapter 2614 - Ancient Secret Land, Priority Pick?

"A hundred experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies?!"

Silence dominated the room after Shi Feng's question. Even Torre's gaze sharpened in an attempt to detect the Swordsman's lie.

"Are you telling the truth?" Torre asked.

The various superpowers urgently needed experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies. Only these experts could cope with the environments and monsters within Level 100-plus, super-large-scale Team Dungeons and hostile secret lands.

Unfortunately, a handful, even just a dozen, experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies would be useless during raids.

A team of a hundred of these experts would be a different story, however. With a full 100-man team, raiding these locations would be possible, and such a team would be invaluable to Violet Sword, which had located an immensely important, ancient secret land.

Meanwhile, Long Wushang gaped at Shi Feng from the reception room's entrance. He had never dreamed that Zero Wing's foundations were so frighteningly sturdy.

A hundred experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies!

With these 100 experts, no superpower would dare provoke Zero Wing, even if it didn't have much power in the west. If these 100 experts decided to retaliate in the fields or cause a scene in a Guild City, the targeted superpower would definitely suffer.

"Of course. I wouldn't have come all the way here, otherwise," Shi Feng confirmed, nodding.

Although Zero Wing only had a little over two dozen experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies right now, many of the Guild's Tier 3 Refinement Realm experts had already reached 85% or higher thanks to the Lost Town's special environment. At most, Zero Wing would need three more days to gather a full 100-man team.

The raid on the ancient secret land wouldn't begin immediately. Violet Sword would need some time to prepare. Without the necessary tools, players wouldn't survive in the secret land, and by the time those tools were ready, Zero Wing should have all the experts it promised.

Hence, Shi Feng didn't consider his statement to be a lie.

Torre and the other two instructors fell silent after hearing Shi Feng's reply.

"Are we actually going to agree to his offer, Instructor Torre? This ancient secret land is likely unique in God's Domain.

You already know how astounding the environment is for training. Black Flame is too greedy. We have already split half the entry slots with Mythology. If we give another 100 entry slots to Zero Wing, we'll have less authority there than Mythology, even if we retain a spot," Wildfighter asked Torre in the team chat.

The ancient secret land had a strict entry limit. It was more like an ancient city, isolated from the outside world, than a true secret land. As long as players defeated the Trial Boss, they'd become ordinary citizens in the city, enjoying the city's various benefits.

To monopolize this secret land, Violet Sword had partnered with Mythology, and both Guilds had dispatched large armies to barricade the entrance, preventing other powers from entering. Each Guild would then occupy half of the available entry slots.

Violet Sword had gone to great lengths to secure 200 entry slots, yet Zero Wing wanted 100 for helping the Super Guild defeat the Trial Boss. No matter how one looked at it, this didn't seem like a worthwhile transaction. Given another two weeks, Violet Sword would be more than capable of taking the Trial Boss down by itself. The Super Guild didn't need any of Zero Wing's help.

Crimson Star nodded in agreement to Wildfighter's comment.

"Guild Leader Black Flame, while your proposal is tempting, you demand too much. I can offer a maximum of 10 entry slots, not one more," Torre said after giving the matter some thought. "Even without your help, we will capture the secret land. It only may take us a few days longer."

"You might be right, but as far as I know, Violet Sword isn't the only power in control of the ancient secret land. Just one day could make a massive difference. I'm sure you're aware of this, Instructor Torre. Moreover, I don't just want 100 entry slots. I also want priority over one of the items the Trial Boss drops," Shi Feng coolly declared, nodding.

Long Wushang could only stare at the Swordsman, utterly flabbergasted.

How was this supposed to be a partnership negotiation?

Violet Sword had clearly stated that it would succeed, with or without Zero Wing, but instead of reducing his demands, Shi Feng had asked for even more, setting his sights on the Trial Boss's loot. He was simply insane...

"You're correct. We're not the only Guild in control of the ancient secret land right now, but you can't ally with the other Guild, can you? Zero Wing has offended Mythology often in the past," Wildfighter countered with a grin. "Violet Sword is Zero Wing's only prospect for an alliance. We're already being quite generous by offering 10 entry slots. If you don't like it, you'll have to find another way to enter the secret land."

Zero Wing's conflict with Mythology was no longer fresh news.

If Mythology hadn't been the only other Guild to control the ancient secret land, Violet Sword might have conceded to Shi Feng's demands. There was no way Mythology and Zero Wing would work together at this point.

Shi Feng was dreaming if he thought he could claim 100 entry slots and priority over the Trial Boss's loot!

Convinced Shi Feng was a madman, Long Wushang couldn't help but shake his head.

Zero Wing was immensely powerful in the east. In fact, it was so powerful that not even several superpowers could take it down.

However, Zero Wing's strength was limited to the eastern continent. Even if the Guild brought 100 experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies to the west, it could, at most, annoy the various superpowers. Zero Wing couldn't reach the various superpowers' roots, let alone those of a veteran Super Guild like Violet Sword.

"What if we enter the secret land by ourselves?" Shi Feng asked, smiling.

"Enter the secret land yourselves?" Crimson Star parrotted, smirking. She then continued, "Guild Leader Black Flame, I don't mean to belittle you, but do you know how large of a force our two Guilds have stationed at the entrance? Not even 1,000 experts with fully unlocked Mana Bodies could dream of setting foot in the ancient secret land without our approval."

To secure their hold, Violet Sword and Mythology had established a Guild City around the ancient secret land's entrance. Without being able to destroy the city, no one would enter the secret land.

Silently, Long Wushang nodded his agreement with Crimson Star's statement. He had visited this Guild City when the Azure Chamber of Commerce had sent its Lifestyle Players to Violet Sword. That Guild City's defenses were no weaker than the various Super Guilds' main headquarters.

"Is that so?" Leisurely, Shi Feng asked, "But what if I have him?"

With that, Shi Feng retrieved a Summon Guard Scroll and called forth Versailles.

Chapter 2615 - Tier 4 Secret-Silver Guard, Life Transition

When Shi Feng summoned Versailles into the reception room, the room's Mana transformed. So dense!

So heavy!

The Mana inside the reception room didn't feel like Mana at all. Everyone in the room felt as if they had been submerged in water and were drowning.

"A Tier 4 Personal Guard?!"

"How is this possible?!"

Long Wushang and the Tier 3 Assassin were stunned when they saw Versailles.

They had seen Level 120 Personal Guards before. After all, every superpower in the game had a few by now, but those had only been Tier 3 Personal Guards. They had never seen a Level 120, Tier 4 Personal Guard before. They hadn't even thought one existed at this stage of the game.

Reaching Tier 4 was an immensely difficult feat, even for Personal Guards. Most player- and power-owned Guards couldn't even reach Tier 4.

Fine-Gold Guards had a relatively high chance of completing their Tier 4 Promotion Quests, but reaching that milestone required a lot of preparation and a lot of time. Even the various superpowers' Personal Guards had just recently reached Level 120. Thus, logically, getting one's hands on a Tier 4 Personal Guard at this stage should be impossible, yet Zero Wing had one.

Tier 4 NPCs were the true bigshots of God's Domain. They qualified to rule major NPC cities and were beyond current players' reach.

"A Tier 4 Personal Guard? It seems the eastern continent's superpowers have grossly underestimated Zero Wing. Their assumption that your Guild is powerless outside of Cold Spring Forest is severely flawed," Torre commented as he gazed at Versailles. Even after seeing the Tier 4 Personal Guard, he still appeared quite calm. "Even so, I do not think that a Level 120, Tier 4 Secret-Silver Guard can break into our two Guilds' city."

Although the Guild City in question was only Basic rank, it was protected by an incredibly powerful defensive magic array. The magic array could endure Tier 4 attacks without any trouble. Otherwise, the city wouldn't have withstood the Demonic Creature armies' invasion.

The western continent was far more dangerous than the east. Towns and cities faced frequent Demonic Creature assaults. These armies especially loved to target Guild Towns and Cities.

It wasn't odd to find three to five Mythic monsters among each Demonic Creature army, in addition to hundreds of thousands of weaker Demonic Creatures.

Trying to rely on a measly Tier 4 NPC to threaten a Guild City jointly operated by two Super Guilds was laughable.

Of course, a Tier 4 NPC, particularly a Tier 4 Great Wizard, could destroy an ordinary Guild's city, but trying to destroy a superpower's Guild City with a single Tier 4 NPC was ridiculous.

Every Guild City a superpower established would have some means offending off or exterminating Tier 4 beings. Otherwise, there wouldn't be any difference between superpowers and ordinary powers.

"That's right. A Tier 4 Secret-Silver Guard would be invincible in the fields. Unfortunately, it is not enough to threaten a superpower's Guild City," Crimson Star said after snapping out of her daze.

From near the reception room's doors, Long Wushang nodded in agreement.

The strength Zero Wing had just revealed was astonishing. If Zero Wing were dealing with a weaker superpower, that power might concede to Zero Wing's demands. Unfortunately, Zero Wing was dealing with Violet Sword, a veteran Super Guild that was almost as powerful as the Five Great Super Guilds. Not even two or three Tier 4 Secret-Silver Guards would be enough to change Violet Sword's mind.

"Indeed, a Tier 4 Secret-Silver Guard would take forever just to blast open a Guild City's defensive magic array," Shi Feng agreed. Smiling, he asked, "But what if I have a Tier 4 Fine-Gold ranked Great Wizard?"

"Impossible! Just having one Tier 4 Personal Guard is a miracle! How could you have another one?!" Crimson Star instinctively opposed Shi Feng's calm question.

A Tier 4 Secret-Silver Guard wasn't strong enough to break a Guild City's defensive magic array, but it would be a different story for a Tier 4 Fine-Gold Guard. Generally, Fine-Gold Guards possessed Taboo Skills and Curses that allowed them to exhibit power beyond their tier. With the power of a Tier 4 Taboo Skill or Curse, even shattering a city's defensive barrier with a single hit would be possible.

However, rising from Tier 3 to Tier 4 was a major feat for Personal Guards. Even Personal Guards with extremely high Growth Potential would need to prepare extensively before challenging their Tier 4 Promotion Quest. Moreover, they still had a high chance of failing, and sending a large number of Personal Guards to challenge their Tier 4 Promotion Quest with the hope that some would succeed wasn't feasible for current Guilds.

When a Tier 3 Personal Guard wished to challenge their Tier 4 Promotion Quest, they needed a large number of Magic Cores, and not just any would do. These Magic Cores had to come from Level 100-plus Mythic monsters.

Unfortunately, Level 100-plus Mythic monsters didn't even have a 5% drop-rate for Magic Cores, and only Demonic Creatures would drop them at all. As a result, even the various Super Guilds could, at most, afford to send one Personal Guard to challenge their Tier 4 Promotion Quest.

Even if Zero Wing hunted monsters with a Tier 3 Knight Division, there were only so many Mythic ranked Demonic Creatures in Cold Spring Forest. The fact that Zero Wing had nurtured a single Tier 4 Personal Guard was a miracle, but having two was simply impossible.

"I might have only one Tier 4 Personal Guard, but that doesn't mean that I can't increase his Growth Potential," Shi Feng said before revealing a translucent, multicolored fruit.

Everyone in the reception room felt physically and mentally restless the moment Shi Feng retrieved the colorful fruit from his bag. Their instincts screamed at them to devour the fruit.

"The Fruit of Life?! Who are you!?" Crimson Star demanded, staring at the colorful fruit in shock.

Shi Feng's Tier 4 Personal Guard had been surprising enough, yet this man also had the incomparably precious Fruit of Life. This was unbelievable!

The Fruit of Life was legendary throughout God's Domain. People had even called it the Holy Fruit. Not only could the Fruit of Life resurrect the dead, but it could also help living creatures recover to their peak and elevate their potential.

There were even rumors that players could boost their Life Ratings significantly by consuming it.

If they spotted a Fruit of Life, even high-tiered NPCs would do everything in their power to claim it, not to mention players.

In Crimson Star's opinion, though, this legendary fruit was just that—a legend. It was beyond the reach of players. The only known way to obtain the Fruit of Life was to harvest it from the Elven race's Tree of Life. However, Elves consider these fruits holy. They would never trade or sell the fruit to outsiders. If players wanted their own Fruit of Life, they could only obtain one by attacking a location that housed a Tree of Life.

However, the Elves' Trees of Life were so heavily guarded that not even Tier 6 Gods could reach them. Moreover, most of the various kingdoms and empires' Great and Grand Wizards had learned from Elven Great and Grand Wizards. Anyone that dared attack the Elves' main headquarters would only make an enemy of these kingdoms and empires. No one under the heavens would be able to save them.

Even Torre stared at the fruit in Shi Feng's hand in astonishment.

The Fruit of Life!

The various superpowers had been desperately searching for the item after learning about it. Based on what they had learned, there was only one way, other than raiding an Elven city, to procure a Fruit of Life. While the Elves refused to trade or sell these fruits, they sometimes offered them as gifts to players who had significantly helped their race. Hence, there were quite a few fruits lying around. Only, most of these Fruits of Life had been given away decades, maybe centuries, ago, so no one knew their current whereabouts.

Even with the superpowers' powerful information networks, no one had found the slightest clue leading to these gifted Fruits of Life, and yet, Shi Feng held one in his palm...

"Eat it," Shi Feng said, passing the colorful fruit to Versailles.

Versailles did not hesitate, excitedly and fanatically taking the fruit. His changed attitude made the room's Mana restless.

After a deep, sincere bow of gratitude to Shi Feng, Versailles ate the Fruit of Life as the players in the reception room watched. 

Chapter 2616 - Potential Skyrockets, World Creation!

"You ..."

Crimson Star's and Wildfighter's eyes went wide as they watched Shi Feng give the Fruit of Life to his Personal Guard with no hesitation.

What a waste!

The Fruit of Life was an incredibly rare and valuable item, far more valuable than a Tier 4 Fine-Gold Guard. That fruit could permanently increase a player's Life Rating or upgrade a Fine-Gold Guard to Dark-Gold rank, drastically increasing the Personal Guard's chance of reaching Tier 5.

Versailles was only a Tier 4 Secret-Silver Guard. Even if the Fruit of Life upgraded him to Fine-Gold rank, and his combat power drastically increased, he wouldn't become much more valuable. Fine-Gold Guards had almost no chance of reaching Tier 5. Meanwhile, players could challenge their Tier 4 Promotion Quest once they reached Level 120, which would significantly decrease a Tier 4 Personal Guard's value.

Using the Fruit of Life to help a player or Personal Guard reach Tier 5 would be far more beneficial than using it to boost a Tier 4 NPC's combat power. Not many in God's Domain would reach Tier 5. That much was clear after seeing how few players completed their Tier 3 Promotion Quests.

While Crimson Star and Wildfighter mourned the fact that Shi Feng had wasted the fruit, a visible layer of life energy formed around Versailles.

Initially, the Tier 4 Great Wizard had been old and decrepit. His aura had been frightening, but it hadn't been able to hide his fading life aura.

Now, however, Versailles regained his youthful vigor at a visible rate. Not only was his life aura growing stronger, but he also began to appear younger. After five seconds, Versailles had gone from looking like someone in his seventies to someone in his fifties.

As soon as the process ended, the Mana density in the room skyrocketed. Space started to isolate the room from the outside world, with Versailles as its commander.

"World Creation!? How is this possible?!" Crimson Star's jaw dropped.

Instructor Torre could only stare at the Tier 4 Personal Guard, dumbfounded.

Once God's Domain's NPCs reached Tier 4, they almost always gained a personal Domain. These Domains were the reason that Tier 4 NPCs were so powerful. The Domains NPCs gained weren't a result of a Skill or Spell, but naturally formed. They also weren't limited like Domain Skills. Not only could Tier 4 NPCs easily suppress their enemies with their Natural Domains, but they could also elevate their own combat power.

These Domains were also the reason that Tier 4 NPCs could effortlessly take on a large group of Tier 3 NPCs of the same level. If players tried to challenge a Tier 4 NPC without a Tier 4 combatant, it wouldn't matter how many Tier 3 players they had; they'd all die.

This was also why Tier 4 NPCs qualified to serve as Magistrates in major NPC cities, while Tier 3 NPCs did not. If players tried to attack a major NPC city without strong enough fighters, they'd accomplish nothing, regardless of how many combatants they had.

NPCs weren't like monsters. Tier 4 monsters were only powerful due to their Basic Attributes, while players relied on Skills, Spells, and numbers to make up the Attribute differences. Even Tier 2 players could defeat Tier 4 monsters with a large enough team. NPCs, however, had an overwhelming advantage with their Mana control. A Tier 4 NPC could use their Mana to suppress every enemy within range. If players couldn't break free from the Mana's bindings, they wouldn't even be able to put up a fight.

However, Versailles had gone past obtaining a Natural Domain, now able to use World Creation.

Versailles had mastered his Mana control before, but now, he ruled over it. With his will alone, he could manipulate Mana, bending it to his rules as if creating a new world around himself.

Normally, however, only Tier 5 NPCs could command World Creation.

Even Shi Feng was astonished. He had never realized how amazing Versailles was.

While the Fruit of Life could increase an NPCs Growth Potential, it wouldn't immediately alter the NPCs Basic Attributes or combat standards unless the NPC had some lingering injuries that weakened them.

Any Tier 4 NPC with World Creation was a true bigshot, only one step away from reaching Tier 5. They were far stronger than ordinary Tier 4 NPCs. The difference between a Tier 4 NPC with World Creation and one without was like the difference between a Tier 3 player with a fully unlocked Mana Body and a player that had yet to accomplish the feat. There was at least half a tier between the two.

Elated, Shi Feng immediately inspected Versailles's statistics.

[Versailles] (Ye Feng's Personal Guard) Gender: Male Age: 76 Loyalty: 93

Growth Potential: 90 Level 120

Class: Tier 4 Great Wizard

Crap! His Growth Potential is just one point away from the Dark-Gold rank?! When Shi Feng saw Versailles' Growth Potential, realization dawned on him.

Now, Shi Feng was absolutely certain that Versailles's original Growth Potential hadn't been Secret-Silver rank, but Fine-Gold rank. Moreover, he should've been a Tier 4 bigshot on the cusp of reaching Tier 5. The Fruit of Life simply wasn't capable of providing such a huge Growth Potential increase.

They were talking about a whopping 16 points!

Even the Fruit of Life, known as the Holy Fruit, couldn't boost an NPC's Growth Potential so massively. The only explanation was that Versailles hadn't fully recovered after drinking the Water of Life and had failed to recover to his full Growth Potential.

Shi Feng didn't know what had left Versailles in such a state, but he was overjoyed and ecstatic. He was even happier than when he had obtained a Fragmented Legendary item.

He had already known that Versailles was an amazing Tier 4 NPC, but now, he learned that this Personal Guard even had World Creation. With this, he could accomplish more than ever, including visiting many of the locations he couldn't reach during his previous life.

After players reached Tier 3 and fully unlocked their Mana Bodies, no land in God's Domain was beyond their reach. While they could even visit the most dangerous maps, however, returning would be another matter altogether.

After all, Level 100-plus maps made up the majority of the vast continent of God's Domain. The human kingdoms and empires only occupied land suitable for their residents, which only included a small fraction of the main continent. There were far more maps that were too dangerous for humans.

Tier 3 players were still limited to relatively safe locations. They'd only be attempting suicide if they tried to explore the truly dangerous areas on the continent. They might even have an encounter that would force them to restart their account.

Now that Shi Feng had a Tier 4 World Creation NPC by his side, however, he could visit the game's truly lethal maps.

These dangerous locations generally served as the venues for Tier 4 Promotion Quests and contained many ancient inheritances. When the various superpowers' experts had reached Tier 4 and beyond in the past, they had spent much of their time in these areas, rarely returning. They could only continue to grow stronger by exploring these maps.

Realizing how much time he had spent gazing at his Personal Guard's stats, Shi Feng quickly suppressed his excitement and returned his attention to Torre and his two companions.

"May I know if Zero Wing now qualifies to negotiate a partnership with your Guild?" Shi Feng asked Torre. 

Chapter 2617 - Secret of the Ancient Secret Land

Even after a long moment, Torre and his comrades couldn't find a proper response to Shi Feng's question.

Shi Feng was simply too ruthless!

To ensure that he'd be able to enter the ancient secret land, Shi Feng had wasted a Fruit of Life to upgrade his Personal Guard to Fine-Gold rank. Not even they would dare behave so lavishly.

However, they had to admit that this Swordsman was extremely fortunate to upgrade his Personal Guard to a Tier 4 World Creation NPC.

With this single NPC, Shi Feng could blast through a Basic City's defensive magic array. Versailles could cause a huge scene inside the city, allowing Shi Feng and his team to pass into the ancient secret land unhindered.

"Instructor Torre, Black Flame must be dreaming!" Wildfighter said in the team chat. "Even if he can break into the city and enter the ancient secret land, he'll only be able to do so a handful of times, at most! I refuse to believe he can come and go from our city as he pleases forever! Moreover, Mythology will have to bear half of the entry slots we lose because of Zero Wing, significantly reducing our losses. When our two Guilds gain Tier 4 experts, his Personal Guard will be useless, and our Guild will still have 200 entry slots."

The ancient secret land contained an ancient city independent from God's Domain's two main continents. Even if players defeated the Trial Boss and became citizens, they would need to remain within the city for some time to enjoy its benefits. Players wouldn't gain access to all of the city's benefits when they first reached the city.

However, while Zero Wing could get into the ancient secret land, the amount of time its players could stay in the city would be limited. Players could only extend their stay with a special tool.

One week!

Even with this special tool, players could only reside in the ancient secret land for a maximum of seven natural days. If they did not leave on time, they'd starve to death. The special tool in question also had a 10-day Cooldown.

In other words, Shi Feng would have to break into Violet Sword and Mythology's Guild City repeatedly to continue enjoying the secret land's benefits. Not only were the various superpowers searching for an easier way to unlock their experts' Mana Bodies, however, but they were also preparing for the Tier 4 Promotion Quests. This meant that Zero Wing had very little time left to take advantage of the secret land.

Crimson Star nodded in agreement with Wildfighter's claim.

There was no way their two Guilds could form an alliance. After all, Zero Wing couldn't offer enough benefits to warrant 100 entry slots.

Torre didn't immediately reply to Wildfighter's proposal. Instead, he closed his eyes and fell deep into thought. After some time, the man's eyes opened, and he looked at Shi Feng, saying, "Guild Leader Black Flame, a partnership between our Guilds isn't exactly out of the question."

"Instructor Torre?"

Both Wildfighter and Crimson Star were surprised to hear Torre's response. Violet Sword didn't need to agree to Shi Feng's demands, and their Guild Leader and Grand Elders would never agree to such laughable conditions.

"What are your conditions?" Shi Feng calmly asked.

Shi Feng admitted that he had demanded quite a bit, but he had no choice. This was all for the sake of helping Zero Wing's members reach Tier 4. With the Guild's current resources, he could only guarantee that a few select individuals would complete their Promotion Quests. Everyone else's chances were minute, at best.

If Zero Wing couldn't nurture enough Tier 4 experts, it would struggle to defend its current resources and territory. Too many superpowers targeted his Guild, and they were only powerless against Zero Wing now due to the Knight Division and its Guild City's formidable defenses.

However, once the era of Tier 4 dawned, destroying Guild Cities wouldn't just become possible; it'd become common.

When God's Domain had reached the Tier 4 era in the past, it had been the craziest chapter of the game's history. The various superpowers had fought like madmen, destroying countless Guild Cities. Many had even been annihilated.

This was also one of the reasons that Shi Feng was so desperate to reach Tier 4.

Although he could rely on Versailles to force his way into the ancient secret land, that wasn't a long-term plan. Allying with Violet Sword was his best option. He'd only resort to force if the Super Guild refused to work with him.

"I only require that you assist us with one thing, Guild Leader Black Flame," Torre said. "So long as you complete this task, we will agree to all of your conditions."

"What is it?" Torre's statement piqued Shi Feng's curiosity. He hadn't expected this man to agree to his conditions so easily.

"It's quite simple. I just need you to clear the ancient secret land's Hero Trial!" Torre declared. "Once you clear it, we'll agree to your demands, but if you fail, we'll ask you to leave. When the time comes, our Guilds will rely on their own strength to enter the ancient secret land."

"The Hero Trial?" Shi Feng was a little confused. As far as he could remember, the ancient secret land's trial only had two difficulties, and neither was called 'Hero.'

"The Hero Trial!? Instructor Torre, that's too risky! We only have one opportunity! We will not get another chance if we fail! How can Zero Wing's people possibly complete it?!" Wildfighter anxiously complained.

The ancient secret land's trial only had two difficulties on the surface: Normal and Elite.

However, as a bonus for activating the ancient secret land, they had the opportunity to face an even harder trial—the Hero Trial!

As long as players cleared the Normal Trial, they'd become official citizens in the ancient city, enjoying the various benefits the city had to offer.

However, based on Violet Sword's research, clearing the Hero Trial would instantly grant the players noble status. There was a huge difference between the benefits a noble had access to and those of an ordinary citizen. While players could improve their rank, rising to noble status would require a ridiculous amount of time and effort.

Unfortunately, Violet Sword only had one chance to attempt the Hero Trial.

They had originally intended to wait until the Hero Trial's time limit was up, which was in roughly 30 days. That way, they'd have the best possible chance of clearing the trial.

However, not only had Torre just suggested they face the Hero Trial sooner than planned, but he also requested Zero Wing's members clear it. While Zero Wing's members had fully unlocked their Mana Bodies, their combat standards were far from satisfactory. Asking Zero Wing's members to clear the Hero Trial would be a huge waste.

"If you fail the Hero Trial, I'd like Zero Wing to refrain from targeting the ancient secret land for 10 days. Are you willing to accept this challenge, Guild Leader Black Flame?" Torre asked Shi Feng.

As Torre finished his question, realization dawned on Wildfighter and Crimson Star.

While using the Hero Trial to gain a 10-day buffer was somewhat extravagant, it would give Violet Sword more than enough time to prepare for the Normal Trial. Once Violet Sword completed the trial, and its members became ordinary citizens in the ancient city, Zero Wing wouldn't be able to affect the Guild's development overmuch, even if they made it into the ancient secret land. In fact, Zero Wing might not be allowed in the city as a result.

Of course, Shi Feng had to agree to the challenge first.

"Guild Leader Black Flame, do you dare to accept this challenge? Violet Sword has spent an enormous amount of resources to secure this ancient secret land. We can't simply hand over half of our available slots for nothing. You, at least, need to prove that Zero Wing can earn these slots," Crimson Star prodded, faintly smiling at Shi Feng.

"Deal! I agree to your conditions," Shi Feng replied after giving the matter some thought. "However, I have an additional requirement. If you can agree to it, we will sign the contract immediately. Otherwise, as Instructor Torre has said, we will have to rely on our own strength to get into the secret land."

"What's this requirement?" Wildfighter asked, curious.

Chapter 2618 - Ancient Legacy

"Earlier, I stated that I want the first pick of the Trial Boss's loot. That condition still stands, but I'm sure you're aware of how difficult the Hero Trial is. One hundred Zero Wing members won't be enough to clear it," Shi Feng calmly stated. "Hence, I need your full cooperation. I repeat: your full cooperation. I will choose the 200 raid team members from among my people. Of course, you can send a few dozen players, as well. Once we clear the trial, we'll each take half of the given entry slots. I'm sure that's a fitting trade-off, don't you think?"

By the time Shi Feng finished speaking, Wildfighter and Crimson Star were stunned. Neither of them had expected Shi Feng to make such an outrageous demand.

They had thought this Swordsman would propose a more excessive condition, such as requiring Violet Sword's members to serve as cannon fodder. They had mentally prepared to watch their members die several times. However, they had never dreamed that Shi Feng wouldn't demand an even higher price, but offer to include more of his Guild members in the raid.

Even Aqua Rose, Long Wushang, and the others near the reception room's door were flabbergasted.

Shi Feng's last condition meant Zero Wing would do all the work for Violet Sword. It was insane.

"That won't be a problem. As long as you clear the Hero Trial, select any raid members you want. In fact, we won't even impose a penalty if our Guild members die in the raid," Torre said. Although he was similarly surprised by Shi Feng's proposal, he nodded in agreement. "However, our people will ignore your orders if they think the raid is impossible, and you ask them to throw their lives away."

Violet Sword had already prepared for multiple team-wipes if it meant clearing the Hero Trial. Since Shi Feng's condition would reduce the number of casualties their Guild suffered, Torre was more than willing to agree.

"If that's the case, I agree," Shi Feng said, nodding. "Give me three days. I'll lead my men to the ancient secret land in three days! Meanwhile, Silent Wonder will remain here to help you. Three days should be enough time for you to prepare the necessary tools."

"Three days?" Wildfighter frowned slightly. He hadn't thought Shi Feng would want to act so soon. He had assumed they'd have around five days to prepare. Including the agreed-upon 10-day buffer, Violet Sword might have been able to gather enough experts to complete the Elite Trial.

"That won't be a problem. You may enter Violet Light City in three days. We will be waiting for you there," Torre said.

Following which, Shi Feng and Torre signed a contract. If Zero Wing cleared the Hero Trial, Violet Sword would surrender 100 entry slots to the ancient secret land. If Zero Wing failed, the Guild would be prohibited from setting foot in the secret land for 10 days.

With the contract signed, Shi Feng promptly left Holy Flame City.

"Guild Leader, three days isn't enough time. We can't even transfer 100 players to the western continent within three days, and why did you offer to bring even more of our people into this raid?" Aqua Rose asked from behind Shi Feng on the Thunder Eagle.

Exploring secret lands always had a high casualty rate. While a team could reap plenty of benefits, Zero Wing would only receive a fraction of what this secret land had to offer. Violet Sword would gain the most benefit. Zero Wing didn't need to sacrifice so many members just to help this Super Guild gain access.

Long Wushang found Shi Feng's decision a bit odd, as well, but since he wasn't a member of Zero Wing, he was in no position to question the Swordsman.

"If this were an ordinary secret land, I wouldn't have offered to contribute so much manpower, but we're talking about a secret land that has survived since ancient times. Moreover, we're going to challenge this land's trial," Shi Feng said, smiling. "What do you think a trial is?"

"Isn't it a test of strength that grants bountiful rewards when cleared?" Aqua Rose replied, confused by her Guild Leader's question. That much was common knowledge in God's Domain.

"You're only half correct," Shi Feng said, shaking his head.

"Half?" Aqua Rose's confusion grew. "What do you mean?"

"A trail is also an excellent training opportunity," Shi Feng explained. "It is true that God's Domain's trails test players' strength, but a larger part of the reason for their existence is to help players grow even stronger. This is especially true with the trials from ancient times.

"The rewards are only a bonus for clearing these ancient trials. The trial itself is far more valuable. These trials contain complete Legacies from ancient times. Even breaking past the Mana Body's 100% limit could be possible if we can comprehend a fraction of these Legacies. Why else would there only be one opportunity to challenge the ancient secret land's Hero Trial?"

Before players had reached Tier 4 and began to explore the game's truly dangerous locations in the past, everyone had regarded trials like Dungeons, nothing more.

However, once players had reached Tier 4 and begun exploring these areas, they had found one ancient trial after another. As these Tier 4 experts continued to clear the ancient trials, they continued to grow stronger. Everyone realized how important God's Domain's trials were after this discovery, especially those that had survived intact since ancient times. Every ancient trial was a golden opportunity.

Since Violet Sword had offered to abandon the chance to challenge the ancient secret land's Hero Trial, Shi Feng had to take advantage of this opportunity. He had even almost failed to contain his excitement and exposed the Hero Trial's secrets when Torre had stated the condition.

If possible, Shi Feng wanted to monopolize all 200 raid slots, but Violet Sword would need a representative to claim the ancient city's entry slots, so it would have to send a few players, regardless of its desires.

"Guild Leader, are you saying that we can use this trial to unlock more of our members' Mana Bodies?" Excitement flashed in Aqua Rose's eyes. If this were true, they had just hit the jackpot!

She had experienced ancient times' training systems personally. The best example was the Extraordinary Tower. Her training was many times more efficient in that tower than anywhere else she had been in God's Domain. It was also thanks to the Extraordinary Tower that she could fight Domain Realm experts, despite only having reached the Void Realm.

If she and Zero Wing's other members could improve their combat standards and Mana control, they'd have a much easier time with their Tier 4 Promotion Quests.

"Why would it be that easy? We only have one opportunity to face the trial. Whether you gain anything from it will depend on you," Shi Feng replied, rolling his eyes.

Not even one in 10,000 Tier 3 experts would cross the Mana Body's 100% threshold. How could all of Zero Wing's members make a breakthrough after facing a single trial?

This was just like with the Extraordinary Tower. Despite the tower's exceptional training mechanisms regarding the Realms of Truth, many Zero Wing core members had yet to reach the Truth Realm.

"Even so, this is an excellent opportunity. At least we have a chance to grow stronger. Some among us might even make a breakthrough like Violet, if we're lucky," Aqua Rose said, smiling.

Long Wushang, who sat nearby, was tempted as he eavesdropped on the conversation. He had never realized that ancient trials offered such a benefit, either.

He had seen the strength one gained when they unlocked more than 100% of their Mana Body. Violet Cloud hadn't even reached the Domain Realm, yet she had defeated Sinful Flame.

In the end, Long Wushang couldn't contain himself and asked Shi Feng, "Guild Leader Black Flame, may I know if you'd be willing to sell some of the entry slots to Azure? Of course, we will pay a sufficient price. You may state any demands you wish." 

Chapter 2619 - Unfathomable Zero Wing

Long Wushang's request surprised Aqua Rose and the others a little. They had never expected the man to suggest a partnership with Zero Wing.

Long Wushang was an extremely prideful man. Even after Zero Wing had put on an outstanding display of strength during Azure's family competition, his attitude toward them and their Guild had only improved from indifferent to normal. Rather, he merely saw Zero Wing as an equal now.

The Azure Chamber of Commerce rivaled Super Guilds, after all, and while it might not be a match for Zero Wing and Violet Sword's gift for nurturing talented players, the chamber's influence, resources, and manpower were far beyond that of Zero Wing.

Moreover, Azure's family competition this year had only involved the younger members from the five main shareholder families. Not all of Azure's young talents had participated. Most of the chamber's younger experts weren't even from the five main shareholder families, and some of them were even stronger than Yan Xiaoqian. However, they didn't have the necessary qualifications to participate in the family competitions.

"Since Azure is willing to cooperate, I don't mind selling a few slots, but how many do you want, Elder Long?" Shi Feng asked, not surprised in the least by Long Wushang's request. Aqua Rose and the others, on the other hand, didn't realize how important the younger generation was to the various superpowers.

To the various superpowers, the younger members were their future!

Take the Azure Chamber of Commerce, for example. A large part of the reason for the Guild's current achievements was the value it placed on nurturing young talents. In contrast, some first-rate Guilds never rose beyond that, despite their many decades of experience, because they didn't value their younger members. Unless first-rate Guilds recruited an astonishing genius, they remained first-rate for the rest of their existences.

Since Shi Feng had exposed the fact that players could potentially grow stronger through the ancient secret land's Hero Trial, he had expected Long Wushang to instantly consider a partnership with Zero Wing, regardless of the man's pride.

Long Wushang's instincts as one of Azure's Grand Elders was also why Shi Feng had fearlessly informed Aqua Rose of the Hero Trial's peculiarities. If he hadn't wanted anything, he would've had the discussion away from Long Wushang.

Allying with Azure was of the utmost importance since Zero Wing didn't have any power on the western continent, aside from the Starlight Fortress. If Zero Wing wanted to secure a stable foothold in the west, it needed to ally itself with the local superpowers.

While Divine Tribe was a powerful ally, the Guild's commercial abilities couldn't compare to Azure's. Divine Tribe couldn't offer Zero Wing any assistance with intercontinental travel, either. Moreover, Zero Wing already had a dialog with Azure due to Silent Wonder. Partnering with Azure would be a safer and more reliable option.

"Purchasing 30 or 40 slots would be fantastic, but if that's not possible, we'll be happy with 10, as well, Guild Leader Black Flame," Long Wushang hesitantly ventured after giving the matter some thought.

The Azure Chamber of Commerce was a massive organization. The Guild needed to nurture all of its young talents, including those from the shareholder families and those who weren't. With enough slots, he could help the rest of the Guild's younger experts. Of course, if Shi Feng refused, he at least had to purchase enough for the five main shareholder families.

"Forty?" After giving the matter some thought, Shi Feng said, "That's fine, but you will have to agree to three conditions."

"That's fine?" Long Wushang's eyes lit up. Eagerly, he continued, "Please, state your conditions, Guild Leader Black Flame. We'll even agree to four or five demands!"

Forty entry slots would be more than enough for the five main families' young talents, but he'd also be able to include the outside experts. If this negotiation succeeded, the Guild's neutral Elders and Grand Elders would definitely side with the Long Family.

"First, I want Azure's help with a matter. I need to transport some of Zero Wing's members to the western continent in three days. We'll need 100 or so," Shi Feng said.

"That won't be a problem. Three days is more than enough time. When the time comes, just have them gather in the Ten Saints Empire," Long Wushang agreed without hesitation.

Intercontinental travel might be difficult for other superpowers, but that was no problem for Azure. Not even transporting 200 players would be a problem. At most, they'd have to spend more Magic Crystals.

"For my second condition, I want a Medium Shipyard and a plot of Golden Land in the Silvermoon Empire's Ocean Tide City," Shi Feng continued.

Trade between the two main continents would rely on naval transportation in the future. Meanwhile, Ocean Tide City was the largest port city in the Silvermoon Empire. As long as Zero Wing had roots in this city, doing business between the two continents would be easy.

"This won't be a problem, either. I'll notify my eldest brother later. You can start conducting business there as soon as the handover procedures are complete," Long Wushang said, not at all surprised by Shi Feng's second condition.

Zero Wing had barely any territory in the west. If it wished to acquire the western continent's resources, the quickest way would be establishing itself in the west's port cities. That way, it could travel between the continents more often and transport far more cargo. After all, players could only transport a limited amount of items via teleportation.

With contact between the two continents still being so difficult, one could resell merchandise from either area for a high price. However, those prices would fall as more powers gained the ability to travel between the east and west. Zero Wing would need to increase its sales volume to maintain a sizable income. Thus, securing a port city in the west was a must for the Guild.

"My third requirement is the most important. I need Azure's complete Void Realm Legacy," Shi Feng earnestly declared, glancing at Long Wushang.

Zero Wing still didn't have a complete Void Realm Legacy, and because of that, it wasn't as well-equipped for nurturing talented players as the various superpowers. If Zero Wing could acquire a complete Void Realm Legacy, the Guild's strength would reach a whole new level, becoming a true superpower.

"That..." Long Wushang hesitated. "The complete Void Realm Legacy is one of the Guild's core secrets. We've spent decades refining it. I'm afraid I don't have the authority to agree to that condition."

While the 40 entry slots were precious, this was only an opportunity. Trading the secrets the Guild had relied on to survive for one chance was absurd. Not even the Guild's other Elders and Grand Elders would agree to such an unfair demand.

"I know it's excessive, but this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You won't get a second chance. Moreover, we're talking about a Legacy that has survived since ancient times. I guarantee it will contain secrets regarding the Tier 4 Promotion Quests," Shi Feng unhurriedly explained. "If that reason isn't enough, I can offer an additional benefit."

"What benefit?" Long Wushang asked curiously.

Azure's complete Void Realm Legacy was one of the Guild's most precious secrets. Sharing this secret with another Guild would be the equivalent of weakening its foundation. A minor benefit wasn't enough of an incentive.

"I can help three of Azure's experts surpass 100% of their Mana Bodies' potential. Of course, the three individuals will have to be exceptionally talented. Ordinary experts won't do. What do you think?" Shi Feng asked, smiling.

You're saying you'll help them grow as powerful as Violet Cloud, transcending tiers?"

Shi Feng's offer astonished Long Wushang, and for a moment, he doubted the Swordsman's claim.

Anyone that had watched Violet Cloud's match against Sinful Flame would likely never forget her strength.

She was simply too formidable!

Violet Cloud's strength was no longer just a result of combat techniques or standards. She had pure power. Even with the same Basic Attributes as Sinful Flame, she had emerged victorious. If she had even slightly higher Basic Attributes, her victory would've been even more outstanding.

Yet, Shi Feng now informed him that Zero Wing could nurture such monsters...

"That's right," Shi Feng said, nodding. "To prove it, I'll even help these three players unlock their Mana Bodies' full potential in a day. Are you willing to accept my offer, Elder Long?"

"Wait a minute, please. I need a moment to process this. I'll have to discuss the offer with my Guild's Grand Elders first, as well," Long Wushang said. He could've viewed Shi Feng's offer as nonsense, but now, he couldn't afford to brush it

If Azure could really have three young monsters like Violet Cloud, it wouldn't have to worry about its future.

"That won't be a problem," Shi Feng said. "Take your time, but I will need an answer within two days."

"Please, wait a moment, Guild Leader Black Flame. I will contact my third brother now and push the Grand Elders to make a decision as soon as possible," Long Wushang said, nodding. He then contacted Long Xianglong and appraised him of the situation.

When Long Xianglong heard about Shi Feng's offer in Azure's Residence, he, too, was astonished.

"What did you say? Zero Wing can help us nurture three monsters on par with Violet Cloud? How is that possible?"