In the eyes of the Illume-union, Sheyan was like an omnipresent specter, always appearing where he needed to. For example, for those fighting at the front had several times where they were about to suffer an attack, but Sheyan had showed up in the nick of time; either through his fists, or the repelling ability of the shotgun to repel viperwolves away, and thus obstruct the viperwolves’ onslaught.
Speaking from the party’s perspective, Sheyan’s readiness to get attacked by these beasts, was obviously more advantageous than having the beasts attack Sable. That was because the latter would have a higher chance of suffering from an explosive strike. Besides, it was naturally more worthwhile for the prepared Seaman, who obviously had excellent defensive strength, to get bitten instead of their own contestants who weren’t prepared.
Yet another viperwolf pack swarmed in. This time, Yuan Zhan and Demondream could tell that the hand-to-hand combat frontlines had finally reached its limit, and to sustain any longer was excruciatingly difficult. The frontlines crumbling would inevitably lead to the entire defense crumbling. In a flash, they readied themselves to act. But at this moment, without a single warning, Sheyan retreated backwards by 2-3 steps.
“He’s finally reached his limits?” This complicated notion finally welled up in both Archeaphill and Sable’s minds.
But just before they affirmed their notion; with a twist of Sheyan’s wrist, a shocking flask appeared from his palm. This flash had a huge belly and was swirling with a faint black liquid, filled to half. Then with a flick, he tossed it ahead.
The flask propelled through the air, crashing against a viperwolf’s body and shattered. Suddenly, with the shattered flask at its core, a dull black shock-wave swept out rapidly; finally a faint black miasma enveloped a radius of 20 square metre around the area. Those viperwolves that were caught inside the shock-wave seemed to have froze in that instance, sinking into a confused state! Those wolves that were wildly charging in with vicious intent were more miserable; losing their balance in mid air, they became like goods delivered to their targets.
At this moment, though the contestants of the Illume-union were ignorant of what was happening, the went by this principle; scumbags would take advantage of cheap exploits. Thus, they naturally seized this immense opening! Although Sheyan’s curse-mix only issued a second of confusion, it was enough to collapse the enemy’s onslaught, and allowed the contestants to make the first strike. It was definitely a significant twist of event in this battle.
After the curse-mix shattered and formed into a faint black fog of black miasma, persisting without dispersing as it enveloped the pack of viperwolves, someone very swiftly transmitted into the party’s channel.
“Eh, how did my attacks become stronger?”
“It’s crushing! What the hell is happening, how am I dealing out crushing damage?”
“This guy’s a real demon, his potion gave me a 3 point strength boost! But now it actually removed 4 strength off the viperwolf! What an insane 7 points difference, my strength can actually crush these sons of bitches! Ha ha! Bastards, taste my iron fist!”
“Seaman’s earlier ability should be his tossed potion; dealing an AOE effect causing the viperwolves strength to plunge by 4 points, movement and attack speed decline by 20%, and even released a second of confusion through its shockwave!”
“Wow, what an exquisite explosion effect… I was just 3 centimetres away from that damned son of a bitch’s fangs.”
“………”
“……….”
Following the successive exclamations of joy and surprise from several close combat contestants, the Illume-union’s moral instantly soared. Especially, Sable who snarled thunderously as he slashed forth with his giant black longsword; dealing out an atrocious explosive strike + crushing damages + AOE effect. It was as if a disgusting wind blade had swept through 4 viperwolves destructively, slaying 3 and heavily wounding 1; instantly reversing their current situation.
This battle sequence was within Sheyan’s predictions. He already understood beforehand that an average viperwolf had a strength of roughly 18 points. After a series of observations and deductions, he reckoned the mean strength of the close combatants here to be around 25-30 points. Naturally, +3 strength wasn’t adequate to invoke an outrageous upheaval; yet after tossing out his curse-mix and lowering the strength of the viperwolves to 14 points, it only required 28 points of strength to deal crushing damage. This undoubtedly meant that the majority of close combatants would be able to crush them and seal the nail on their coffins!
Yuan Zhan, who was Initially about to act, glanced towards Demondream, and spoke with a low tone.
“This Seaman’s support ability……is truly magnificent!”
Demondream had a mist covering her slender figure. Her curvy waist and perky buttocks could be faintly seen, but her face was a blur; with both hands pressing down on weapons at her waist. A long scabbard on her left, and a short one at the right, as she emanated a threatening and piercing aura. She remained silent as she gazed towards the battle. Suddenly, she turned around with a slightly surprised tone.
“Why did you come out……Zi?”
A tall and lofty female strolled out of the valkyrie’s interior. She was wearing a broad long robe that displayed an elegant and ancient Ramesses* dynasty style. Just by looking at it, one sense the feeling of fine exquisite craftsmanship. It’s design boasted of a sphinx, cuneiform and a scarab. The backdrop of azure blue undoubtedly projected an image of the roaring sea.
(TN: Ramesses was the third pharaoh of the nineteenth dynasty of egypt)
Shockingly, 3 rhombus glows appeared around Zi’s body, circling incessantly around her body. Merely by standing still, she emitted an awe-inspiring and compelling aura. It was as if she was a scholarly egyptian during egypt’s most prosperous era, an image of an egyptian queen standing behind pharoah as she inspected her subjects from the crown of a pyramid.
Zi’s deep blue pupils casted down towards the battlefield, the viperwolf side had already exposed a clear decline.
“A sudden appearance of an element X, I definitely need to see what is going on. So Demondream, what’s your view?”
A thread of gloom surfaced within Demondream’s voice.
“I’m sorry, sire, I have no answer.”
Zi was taken aback and replied.
“You……have no answer?”
Demondream lightly whistled out a breath.
“Really regretful, sire. This person named Seaman has a rather capable perceptive sense, I reckon it’s at least close to 30 points! More importantly, he should be wearing an equipment that can interfere with my ability. I’m unable to probe him effectively.”
Yuan Zhan couldn’t help but interrupt.
“Doesn’t your ability have precedence?”
Demondream coldly replied.
“Can’t his interference type ability similarly possess precedence?”
Zi quietly scanned the battlefield and uttered.
“Even if I don’t show up, I believe Sable and Archeaphill will definitely rope him in, then let’s first observe. The realm wars are ever changing and unstable, severely treacherous, with slaughters and conspiracies as its pillar. But now it’s just the beginning. Before the Golden side mission appears, it is better to play it safe. Of course, if this person wants to join our party; I have to admit we must be vigilant, certain core matters must still be kept a secret.”
Not even 10 seconds after she finished speaking, the party’s upper tier secret communications channel suddenly rang with Sable’s voice.
“Hey Zi, are you there?”
Zi’s dark blue eyes flashed with a glitter, as she lightly replied.
“Speak.”
Sable’s voice wasn’t as insolent as before, it had became rather humble and meek.
“I’ll just say two points. First, this kid is really useful. Just based on his current performance of abilities, it is enough to land him into any core circle of a party of this realm war.”
The rhombus glows revolving around Zi suddenly sped up, then quickly returned to normal.
“I find your evaluation a little exaggerated.”
Sable silently scoffed.
“I’m glad, our opinions seldom reach an unanimous verdict, but sadly, this brings me to my second point. My previous statement was actually Archeaphill’s judgement.”
Zi’s gaze tightened. No party leader would ever neglect the opinion of her own party’s MT. If not, that factor could easily lead to a division and eventual demise of the party. Zi wasn’t in a rush to question Archeaphill, but continued with a warm and unquestionable tone to Sable.
“I’d like to hear your opinion.”
Sable rubbed his hands and hesitated slightly before saying.
“Screw it! Really, I also kinda like this kid, he can allow ‘Tom’ (Referring to his sword) to crush damn morons! Moreover, he even showed up several times to tank some blows for me. Still, I think Archeaphill’s words would weigh more.”
“Your f***king mind is only filled with a pile of dogshit!” Suddenly, an irritable voice resounded, to be more precise, it was a shout!
Needless to say, it was MT Archeaphill that spoke. Hearing those words, Sable’s face instantly turned pale a little. If other members dared to shout at him, he would instantly fly into a fit of rage. Only Archeaphill dared to admonish him; with Archeaphill’s roar, only Zi’s calm voice could appease it!
“Sable, do you need me to repeat myself? Your f****king mid is filled with a pile of dogshit! Do you know what does it mean for someone to tank several blows for you? Those damned viperwolves definitely do not have low damage. If they struck you, an explosive strike would leave you devoid of close to 100 HP. As for Seaman who helped you tank this strike, at most he had lost 30 health points! Counting him within the entire party, it would mean being spared 70 points of damage! Just calculate, how many times has he tanked for you? And you hadn’t even considered the fact, how many fatal strikes has he tanked for me?”
Sable fell into a daze before snorted coldly in response.
“No.”
“No right? But I did! Seaman shielded you 4 times! Covered me 11 times. Apart from that, he even blocked 2 sneak assaults against Kaide’s neck; and used that weak white grade shotgun that you ridiculed to send 4 viperwolves flying back! Those 4 viperwolves had their fangs an inch away from sinking into those weaker kid’s body!”
The vertical scar underneath Archeaphill’s oxygen mask flushed with red.
“1,500 HP! Since he entered this battle, this Seaman has spared our party at least 1,500 HP! When you guys were slothing around, he was defending. When you guys were fleeing, he was defending. When you were on the offense, he was on the defence! When you were happily slaughtering away, he was defending. When you were looting spoils of war, he was still defending! This brat completely disregarded desires of attacking, like a mad dog, crazily tightly crunching on the word ‘defence’!”
Zi gasped deeply, and then spoke with gentleness.
“Archeaphill, the burden of our party’s defence still rests on you. Perhaps Seaman is indeed capable, but without you, he is still nothing.”
Archeaphill’s tone finally soothened a little.
“Zi, perhaps this brat is unable to assume leadership; but honestly speaking when comparing to Huckle, it is simply comparing a clumsy rear guard to Micheal Jordan. Believe me, if this guy possess an innate ability and adequate equipment, he would be MT material! I firmly believe so!”
Zi’s robe fluttered even amidst the still air.
“I understand your intentions.”
Archeaphill callously added on.
“If usable, we use. If not, then we discard! Eh? f****, where’s Seaman?”
The reason why Archeaphill could afford to be distracted and participate in this core meeting, was because the current state of battle was settled. As the main frontier of the frontlines, it was crucial to plan ahead and prepare for a rainy day; awaiting for the next wave of aggression. Hence, he retreated to the rear safety region to rest and mend his wounds. Yet he had never expected that, within these few seconds, Seaman actually vanished!!!
Sable immediately screamed into the party channel.
“Who has seen Seaman!”
Swiftly, a reply transmitted.
“A severely wounded viperwolf just fled, and Seaman pursued it!”
Sable slapped his thigh as he sighed in vexation, his eyes flickered maliciously.
“Need me to bring some guys to stop him? If he isn’t willing, then I’ll kill him immediately!”
Zi humbly shook her head.
“If this person’s present conditions are really as formidable as what Archeaphill described; then once he has left, it would be difficult to find him. Let’s not talking about Seaman having other companions; don’t forget, the next wave of viperwolves are incoming! If you guys left, then wouldn’t our party be susceptible to a huge calamity?”
Sable was instantly flabbergasted. Zi shut her eyes to blink, then with a frosty like expression, she uttered.
“Go back to your posts, the next wave is already on the way!”
Perhaps only a few of them noticed; in that instance she blinked, Zi’s eyes turned from sky azure to black and then to golden!
Golden pupils!
With vertical pupils like dragons or cats!
**
If the first wave of viperwolves were considered as a tiny greeting from planet Pandora; then the next flooding tide, could be described as full of warmth and utmost respect! This warmth was like a tsunami, swallowing up a dozen of contestant lives.
Presently, Sheyan had already made rounds through the northern, eastern and southern regions and returned. Through his interactions with many contestants, all contestants had obtained a valuable piece of information:
In this particular realm war, there was a shocking alchemist, a support class contestant whose name was Seaman. The parties were all exceedingly aware, that this bugger utilized a white grade knucklers and white grade shotgun, and didn’t participate in any offense…..
Including the Illume-union, there were at least 3 other parties that harbored intentions to rope Sheyan in. They could all perceive the colossal worth he would provide, and silently made resolutions that if they couldn’t obtain him, his death would be the only option…….but this also meant one thing! Their primary attitude towards Sheyan would be to recruit him for themselves! In other words, before he rejected their hopes, Sheyan could be said to possess a friendly security amongst them!
That was the reason why Sheyan had decided to blow things up bombastically.
The sole reason.
Right now, it was during a resting interval after a battle. Many contestants were leaning against the valkyrie’s walls and panting heavily; hastily bandaging themselves and consuming healing medicines/foods.
Mogensha was currently standing aloft, raising his military canteen as he gulped down the salt water within. Stretching his throat up, his Adam apple shrank in as the water flowed fluidly into his throat.
Under the careful guarding and attention of Reef, his life wasn’t threatened at all. Even when the Mountain Banshees dove down from the heavens towards Mogensha, Reef charged towards him with lightning speed and casted ‘Courage’ on Mogensha; forcibly tanking for him!
(TN: Recap of Reef’s ability: ‘Courage’ – Base Ultimate ability: ‘Courage’. Castable on allies, cooldown duration of 15 seconds. Damage incurred to your target will be shouldered by you, damage lessened by 15%.)
It had to be mentioned that Reef had also acquired substantial upgrades after meeting Sheyan. Although his equipment hadn’t advanced in the recent few worlds, his base attributes had climbed at an astonishing pace. More crucially, his MP had been raised by nearly 200 points, allowing him more freedom to execute abilities requiring MP.
One must know, though Reef’s ‘Shattering Cardiac Roar’ was a powerful non-mp ability, his rank 5 ability ‘Faith guard’ had already been upgraded from the fourth tier to the fifth; it was now half step into max lvl. Right now, he could cast ‘Faith guard’ on others, naturally the MP requirements grew from 30 to 40 MP.
(TN: Recap on Reef’s ability! – Rank 5 ‘skill tree’ ability: ‘Faith guard’ (Previous cultivation of the 4th tier). Activating it will instantly form a layer of mental constructed formidable armour, armour possess 100 HP, 10 points of defence and duration of 300 seconds. After it is destroyed, it will restore 100 HP to user within 10 seconds. (Tier 5 cultivation will allow casting on others). Activation of ability at tier 4 requires 30 MP.)
Apart from that, his ability ‘Courage’ not only had a cool down duration of 120 seconds, it required 30 MP to execute. Therefore, the two MP requisites became huge bottlenecks restricting Reef from exhibiting his fullest potential. After his adventures with Sheyan and acquiring those extra 200 MP, pulling his total MP to nearly 400 points, he was now able to substantially alleviate his previous frustrations.
At present, an exceedingly peculiar equilibrium was happening on the western battlefield, and this was due to Sheyan and buddies. This was because there was an awkward combination of 2-3 medium scale parties in the western battlefield, with none above the others, and they just had to be without a single MT. (MT is most known as contestants possessing defensive innate) Right now, Reef’s unrivalled valiance yet humble presence pervaded the atmosphere. Therefore, having him to lead this temporary western faction naturally became widely acceptable to the various parties.
At just this moment, Sheyan sneakily returned to their sides, sitting beside Reef as he laughed.
“How’s it? Is the pressure on?”
Reef shrugged his shoulders.
“It’s alright, but we already lost 6 people on our side. Also just a casual statement, that assistant tank from that Gothic party is really trash. Looting keys, he is faster than everyone. Shirking from danger, you’ll find him at the rear.”
Able to trigger a noble and lawful guy like Reef to anger, it could be said that guy was really one of a kind. Sheyan laughed heartily, focussing his gaze on Reef.
“I swear after I left, that MT Archeaphill from the Illume-union, would also describe his assistant tank with the same phrase. We only lost 6 guys in our western region? Right, they are really lucky. Your ‘Shattering Cardiac Roar’ ability is perfect for such chaotic massive battles against ordinary beasts, it can even be said to be a field controller. Sadly, the rate of elite or legendary creatures resisting your ‘Shattering Cardiac Roar’ is rather high.”
At this moment, Mogensha spat out his chewing gum as he lazily interrupted.
“Archeaphill? That tortoise moving baldy that carries a cumbersome shield? Oh, I understand why he has taken a liking to you. Because he is gay, and Seaman, your ass is ****! Oi oi oi, boss please don’t clench your fists so tightly, I’m just kidding. The real reason is because you probably raised his strength by 3. His top 3 attributes are actually physique, intelligence and spirit. After that is strength.”
“What!?!” Sheyan was stunned. Mogensha shrugged his shoulders.
“Don’t look at me with those eyes, I promise my information is genuine. Because in the past, his life was previously redeemed by the Symbiosis sect.”
Hearing this information, Sheyan’s eyes suddenly imagined that strange scene he viewed previously. That was at the instance he supported Archeaphill for the first time, his neck had rapidly transformed ash gray, as though it became granite; and it was the exact spot the viperwolf was about to munch on!
“Don’t tell me, that MT walks another path? A magic based, defensive warrior?”
Sheyan shook his head, casting aside his thoughts temporarily, as though he was placing a case file back into the shelf. Then he started to calmly assess the next wave of beasts. After facing that terrifying difficulty ‘A’ world, a natural scorn towards this difficulty ‘B+’ world had already formed in Sheyan’s heart.
“I feel we should dig a pit; bury these carcassess and flush away the blood.” A contestant randomly blurted out, his tone revealed his relative excitement.
Sheyan had obviously been drawn by his words. Yet sadly, the rest of the contestants around him completely paid no attention.
TN: I’ve changed the term limit-venator to Growth-hunter instead, there is a reason for this which would I will explain in later chapters. 
Though he treated as a highbrow entertainer, that contestant wasn’t the slightest bit discouraged. He continued to wave his arms and danced about.
“No doubt, the first 2-3 batches of viperwolves were inevitable. This is because of the gigantic steel bug behind our arses, which probably agitated and infuriated them when landing! Perhaps, it even wrecked their nests. As for the Mountain Banshees visiting, that is still a mystery, but an obvious idea would be the dense black smoke spiralling out of the valkyrie.”
“Stop bullshitting, moron……”
“Shut it, if not I wouldn’t mind silencing you with bullets.”
“Friend, listen to me please…..shut the hell up!”
Bang! echoes “The next time, it will be aimed at your brains.”
After hearing the words of this contestant, Sheyan’s vision congealed. He then headed over and spoke to that contestant.
“Hi, friend. Your reasoning seems rather fresh.”
The contestant was still dispirited, as he grudgingly shook his head.
“It is actually pretty common sense. The initial attraction of those frightening creatures is most likely due to their curiosity and agitation. However, every living thing possess two kinds of basic instincts, survival and reproduction. I fear that right now over here, the enticement for those beasts has accumulated too excessively, the blood and flesh littered over this battlefield is the greatest bait for them!”
“Yet the most fearsome part is that, if the battle continues persisting for too long, it may produce a chain reaction…..that would mean the more we kill, the more flesh and blood we leave hanging around. The more those savage hunting beasts would pay a visit!”
Sheyan pondered for a moment and immediately replied.
“That does sound logical. You’re a summoner based on charm?”
The contestant helplessly nodded.
“Yes, but unfortunately, my strongest, most formidable child had died in the previous world.”
“Child?” Sheyan was a little intrigued. However, he immediately reacted; he should be referring to his previously tamed creature. He stared into the contestants eyes.
“I am Seaman, and your name?”
“Makaji, glad to meet you, Mr Seaman.”
Sheyan then transmitted several lines into his party channel. Reef then leapt atop a vantage point and clapped for attention. As the strongest, most formidable MT in the western region, his words carried far more weight than most, and could fix the tone with a single hammer blow.
“I loathe this detestable planet, really. I once again reiterate. This is utter desolation, even breathing is difficult because of the venomous atmosphere! So now, brothers whom I had just fought shoulder to shoulder with, please aid me! Help me bury these bloodied carcasses that are blocking the way ahead, who knows what sort of fatal venom these carcassess would contaminate or release? Dammit, I really don’t wish to be unknowingly poisoned, while tanking an elite creature!”
Without a doubt, once Reef spoke, Mogensha and Sheyan backed him up. With others instigating, and in additional to the prestige and awe of Reef’s prowess, various others started responding in succession. Those present were both diversified and ordinary contestants; even without any working tools, they quickly excavated several deep pits dozens of metres at a suitable distance. Then they flung those carcasses into the pits and buried them.
When the workers gathered back to the western entrance of the valkyrie, the battlefield was only left with spots of blood stains. Mogensha leisurely tossed out an immeasurably powerful gasoline ignition grenade. In a flash, the entire region was covered in a sea of flames. When the flames subsided, a plain field was left.
Of course, to some wild beasts with keener sense of smell, the remaining blood stains and stench were like light bulbs guiding their path. Besides, for them, the sense of smell was akin to the driving license in modern day society, or possessing essential IT skill towards computers. But never ever forget, Sheyan’s group was only one out of the 4 battlefields! Putting it bluntly, as long as the bait enticement on their side was vastly inferior to the others; then naturally, the pressure they face would respectively deescalate.
Reef then spoke through the party channel.
“Boss, those beasts provided rather good drop loots, sometimes, even high quality rare materials would appear……from the start till now, AK and I have already raked in at least over 10,000 utility points. As for that light blue key that was just dropped, it even gifted us 3 potential points.”
Sheyan replied.
“I understand what you mean. You wish to reap more benefits right. Just like what you said, these creatures are not a threat to us at present. But never ever forget, our enemies aren’t merely these primitive beasts! If we pull out all our aces here….then, wouldn’t the most majestic forest trees be blown down by gales*!”
(TN: Chinese saying, that means trees would normally greed for rain, but when the fiercest rain and gales arrives, they would be toppled by that same greed. Similar to humans)
Reef’s expression changed as he sighed. He was ultimately only a powerful warrior, and comprehended matters at a simpler level. As for Sheyan whose thoughts dissected through layers, naturally he was wiser. At this moment, another wave of beast came surging from afar. Amidst the tide of beast, was an appalling sight of a giant monstrous beast; as enormous as a road roller!
This giant beast had indigo and orange stripes interweaved over each other into a waving pattern. Its head rather resembled a bison plus a stegosaurus combined. However, its body surface displayed chunks of muscular swells, brimming with explosive strength. Even from miles away, one could sense its tremendous hoofs trampling, producing “Thump Thump” reverberations on the ground; like an oppressive and shuddering drumbeat, resonating violently with the human’s internal organs!
Sheyan’s gaze flickered.
“That is…….”
He was about to probe, but another contestant who was given the task of sentry immediately reported the statistics. Seeing the silvery glitters from the binoculars he held, it should be a silver storyline grade equipment. Following that, a 3D imagery of statistics appeared to the audience.
Sturmbeest (Tier 2 legendary creature)
(TN: I’ll be using tier classification for legendary creatures from here on. So junior tier, tier 1, tier 2 and so on)
Na’vi tongue: Talioang
Scientific name: Bovindicum Monocerii
Height: 5 metres
Weight: Over 10 tons
Description: Planet Pandora’s giant type creature, height 5 metres, weight 10 tons. Omnivorous, violent and bad tempered, easily startled.
Strength: 39 points
Agility: ?? points
Physique: 10 points
Spirit: ??
Intelligence: ??
Legendary creature ability: ‘Mother-earth Skin lvl 4’ – Grants an additional 15,000 HP. Lvl 4 bonus effect, grants additional 5,000 HP.
Legendary creature ability: ‘Steel will lvl 1’ – Most speed reduction / Charming / controlling effects fare poorly against any creature with this ability.
Creature ability: ‘Wild collision’ – Deal an exceptionally terrorizing base damage + bleeding damages + strike back to enemies. Once activated, unable to stop (Once activating, immune to controlling effects / effect that has precedence). The further the distance charge up to collision, the more devastating its might.
Creature ability: ‘Warstomp’ – Heavily stomp onto the ground, unleashing an immense seismic wave.
Realm war additional bonus: Grant additional 300,000 HP to this creature.
No doubt, this bad boy was at least a legendary tier mightier than the mountain troll. This teaser, don’t even mention Reef, even the present state Archeaphill using that giant shield would be completely unable to resist it! Actually, an additional 300,000 HP bonus from the realm war was completely normal. With over 60 long range combatants, even with primary ordinary shots, they would at least be able to deliver 4,000 damage. Without that additional bonus, then this Sturmbeest would only be able to hold on for 10 seconds.
However, now with that 300,000 HP, this undoubtedly meant the contestants wouldn’t be able to bring it down within a short span of time. This undoubtedly signified that their defensive circle would inevitably collapse to total shambles in due time!
As the human crowd glanced apprehensively at each other; when the tide of beasts approached a kilometre distance away, suddenly two portion of black armies splitted from the main colossal army. The two portions were led by an obviously larger elite viperwolf leader, separating and heading towards the southern and northern defence side.
Viewing such a comforting scene, the western contestants couldn’t help but gasp in delight. Following that was another scene that left them gratified; numerous viperwolves actually sped ahead to the graveyard dug by the contestants previously. Their movements were fast and nimble, as soil and mud were being tossed out like raindrops. Those fierce and avaricious beasts begun to gorge themselves on the carcasses they dug out.
After that happened, the ranks of viperwolves swarming around the Sturmbeest became relatively sparse. Observing that their earlier preparations had yielded results, Reef then boomed thunderously.
“Move aside, move aside. I’ll draw back that lil’ monster. All long range combatants, concentrate your firepower against its front left leg! Try your best to slow it down, don’t just target its head!”
As Reef commanded the army, a layer of crystal gem shielded his body; obviously activating his ‘Faith guard’. Then he hoised his shield as he anchored himself at foremost of the army. Honor did not allow one to glance back; Sheyan naturally followed by his side in preparation for combat. Estimatedly under this difficulty, the chances of Reef instantly being whacked into near death state was not high. But if variables appeared; crushing damages neglecting defence or even amplified explosive strikes, or minute probability occurrences, then Sheyan had decided to immediately lift him up and flee.
200 metres,
A 100 metres!
This distance was already within most of the long range contestants firing arc. Sheyan could even see the thick profound vein lines on the Sturmbeest’s leather skin; it appeared like splintered cracks on a dried paddy field. Moreover, there seemed to be black string like parasites squirming about within it. Its swelling sinew muscles moved rhythmically beneath its thick skin. Its nostrils repeatedly sprayed out white fog, fogging out a metre far!
The imposing manner of which the Sturmbeest stampeded in, could only be described as an magnified steam train rolling in rapidly!!!
Facing such an impending horrific collision, who would dare to dash and slash?
Within the western region; there were probably a hundred or so contestants, amongst which were at least 70 long range combatants. Minusing those weirdos who picked unorthodox combat paths, and those agility based close combatants, then the genuine few would could hold the frontlines were barely more than 10. However, the only one that dared claim to be a MT, was Reef. Only he possessed a defence base innate ability! It could be told how rare a MT was.
As Mogensha sprayed out long fiery tongues through his trademark golden AK, the other long range combatants followed suit, as they commenced bombardment on the giant beast’s left front leg. Of course, the battle line was as broad as nearly a hundred metres; due to awkward angles or various reasons, only a third were genuinely able to concentrate their firepower there. The rest still had to deal with the pesky average viperwolves.
Actually, if this Sturmbeest was alone; solely focusing their firepower could in fact swiftly beat out a crippling effect onto it. With a plunge in its movement speed, its threat would be reduced substantially. After all, not possessing long range offensive capabilities was its greatest flaw.
The true terror of the Sturmbeest was displayed with its ability to plough through their defensive formation, slaughtering a gap for the viperwolves behind to rummage towards the rear lines unobstructed. With such a focused assault, it instantly threw the entire battle into disarray. If an ordinary party was inflicted as such; even if they weren’t annihilated, they would’ve suffered immense casualties!
Fortunately, Reef had a handy AOE speed reduction ability, naturally he was able to hinder the viperwolves from their reckless wild charge. Though an average viperwolf dealt decent damage, they were incapable of long range assaults. Luckily, there were still 10 or so others alongside Reef, sharing the burden of these beasts; not expecting to slay them speedily, but just hindering them was enough.
When the Sturmbeest was finally dealt a crippling blow and its mobility had waned greatly, it finally allowed the slightly faster contestants to draw its attention and lure it away. The rest of the contestants then concentrated their firepower against massacring the viperwolves, before they would proceeding to slay the Sturmbeest easily.
In theory, Reef’s battle plan showed no flaws, however, unexpected variables would always drift into the battlefield like a looming spectre. At the instant where the Sturmbeest arrived 20-30 metres away from the valkyrie, a dozen plus weird beasts clad in golden exterior simultaneously flashed out from its rear buttocks. These peculiar beasts could aim faraway towards the long range contestants who had just emptied a round of fire, before their cheeks swelled and abruptly sprayed out a gust of air!
The external appearance of these golden beasts were queer. They had slender long beaks like a red-crowned crane, a curved neck of a pheasant, yet its lower body had an oval shape of a turtle. It had 6 legs, amongst which 4 were used to gallop while the front 2 were oddly crooked; identical to a praying mantis sawtooth blades, looking extremely menacing.
Their skin was smooth yet dry, exposing loosened creases due to its relaxed state. The outline of their muscles could be vaguely seen beneath their skin. When these freakish beasts locked onto the distant long range contestants, their necks weirdly cocked back into a striking position like a cobra. From its sharp beak, a shocking venomous sting erupted forth, carrying a deadly neurotoxin!
Within the disorderly mess, that sentry contestant was actually still able to report information of that creature at first notice.
Slinger (Ordinary)
Na’vi tongue: Lenayga, scientific name: acediacutus xenoterribili
Height: 2.4 metres. Weight: 62 kilograms
Strength: 13 points
Agility: 25 points
Physique: 8 points
Perceptive sense: 17 points
Charm: 3 points
Intelligence: 7 points
Spirit: 7 points
Basic long range combat lvl 4, basic footwork lvl 4
Creature ability: ‘Thunder-rock embrace’ – grants additional 1000 HP.
Creature ability: ‘Camouflage’ – Slingers can effectively alter their pigment, concealing themselves and inciting sneak attacks.
Slinger special ability (Passive): ‘Neurotoxin overflow’ – Cause target’s muscles to turn rigid, and impair breathing. Movement speed decrease 33%, attack speed decrease 27%. Additional 5 damage/3 seconds, duration lasts for 15 seconds.
Slinger special ability (Passive): ‘Hairless skin’ – elemental damage dealt to it reduce by 15%. ‘Hairless skin’ has a 10% chance of causing enemy to miss.
Slinger special ability (Passive): ‘blade-foot’ – Every first successful physical claw will be an explosive strike. However, its crooked claws will easily lodge into the enemy’s flesh, and become unable to withdraw. Hence, after successfully striking the enemy, there is a 50% chance of disability of engaging in close combat for 20 seconds.
Description: This creature named lenayga in the na’zi tongue, is the strangest discovery on planet Pandora up till today; and is also one of the most dangerous species. This terrestrial carnivore loves to perch in tropical rain forests, and primarily prey on Hexapedes*.
(TN: *another species in Avatar, a land herbivore)
It is as tall as 2.4 metres and possess a muscular neck. Its triangular head contains a venomous sting that secretes neurotoxins. When nearing its prey; to prevent itself letting out sounds, it would move slowly and silently to pass through the forest ferns. When inducting its prey, its rooster lie neck would rapidly jet out its venomous sting, and finally capture its prey.
**
The first onslaught of the Slingers’ venomous stings instantly killed two long range combatants. This group of intellectual creatures even knew how to concentrate their assaults onto single targets, thus inflicting massive devastation. To the defensively weary long range combatants, a single venomous sting dealt even 50 – 70 points of damage; what was scarier was the poisonous element damage that surfaced!
For example being assaulted by a Slinger; it carried an additional poison element damage of 5 points/ 3 seconds, duration of 15 seconds. Then two Slingers would equate to 10 points / 3 seconds, duration 15 seconds. 10 Slingers would simply be 50 points / 3 seconds, duration 15 seconds…..and so on.
In actual fact, the pack of Slingers’ initial targets converged onto 3 contestants. Every 4 Slingers had focused on 1 contestant, and their targets were naturally the most prominent few amidst the long range combatants. In the end, those guys melted in a flash, not even having time to consume medicines. Fortunately, one of the survivor was indeed Mogensha, who delivered the highest damage output. Firstly, he had the bonus 100 HP from his Silver party’s skill, and the equipment he was wearing was forged by Reef using pandora crystals from the Starship Trooper world. Even with all that, he was still reduced into a near death state.
Shaken to the core, Mogensha threw away his image as he rolled wretchedly ahead, before activating his party skill ‘gloryheal’; immediately considered as negating the effects of poison with a sliver of healing. After the heart wrenching 15 seconds of poison damage lapsed, he then bandaged himself, waiting for his health to be restored to half before straightening himself to resume fire.
The contestants were caught totally unprepared with the appearance of like-minded long range aggressors. This was also due to the craftiness of these Slingers, who actually pasted themselves behind the buttocks of the Sturmbeest; only coming out in ambush when they reached firing range, thus dealing immaculate damage.
However, contestants who had worked their way here had all gone through their own storms and droughts. Though there were casualties, they had all fought against long range enemies before. Of course, the primary action was to seek cover, before approximating the enemy’s attacking intervals.
Such attacking intervals in firearms terms, would refer to its reloading phase. For the Slinger, after propelling its venomous sting, it had to suck in air and spray it out again.
By understanding this gap, one could grasp its attacking pulse, then grasping their personal attacking tempo, and finally grasping their authority to take initiative in the battlefield.
There were 5 long range combatants belonging to a party called ‘Sons of Caden’. Every time they mobilized and concentrated their firepower, they inevitably inflicted severe damage and even managed to slay one Slinger. Meanwhile, two other close combatants of the same party abandoned their own opponents; sneaking up to the Slinger’s ass, as they fished in troubled waters, and backstabbed them.
Strictly speaking, though they were long range combating freaks, Sheyan could tell the differences between them and the tentacled-freaks of the previous world. At least the round eye of the tentacled-freak was an irritating shit, boasting a 24 hours, no blind spot surveillance. Those tentacled-freaks held no fear of others sneaking up on their assess, and rupturing their butts.
Naturally, the Slingers suffered catastrophic casualties in a flash! However, don’t forget that the agile close combatants had forsaken their targets to rush back in aid. The two viperwolves they were originally dealing with wouldn’t possibly idle around, or yawn while suntanning under the sun, perhaps even copulating with their bellies facing the sky. They naturally shifted to charge towards Reef. If Reef hadn’t preserved his true strength earlier, and if Sheyan was merely an assistant without the calibre of a MT; then undoubtedly, if Reef didn’t die, he would be at least semi-crippled!
Yet more crucially, once the Slingers surfaced, nobody even bothered with Reef’s orders with regards to the Sturmbeest. Like a lively dragon and animated tiger, the Sturmbeest decided to pursue a sniping contestant brat vigorously. That unlucky child dished out immeasurable damage, therefore it was natural that the Sturmbeest harboured deep hatred towards him! While the Slingers were defeated and their bodies scattered around, the Sturmbeest had caught up to that contestant.
“Save him!” Observing the situation, Sheyan immediately roared into his party channel!
Sheyan had to admit, the live and death of that contestant held no relations to him, however! If they allowed those who obeyed commands to die, while those uncooperative ones to survive; then no matter if he ended up dead or alive, it would be a slap against party ‘Ace’s’ face!
Hence, at this point, Mogensha fumed loudly as he pulled out his silver short spear; the spear metamorphosed into a dancing lightning as it bounced through the viperwolves ahead of Sheyan and Reef. The 3 viperwolves didn’t possess full health to begin with, and instantly exploded into a pool of flesh.
Simultaneously, Reef triggered his ‘Courage’ ability, as he swiftly flew and threw himself in blocking stance in front of that sniper contestant. Raising his shield, he represented the contestant to shudder the full collision of the Sturmbeest!
Howling winds first slapped against him……
The sensation of this collision, was exactly like being trapped in a landslide on the swiss alps!
At that moment of impact, the sturdy and valiant Reef was essentially blown away like a little pebble!
In that brief instance, the sparkling ‘Faith guard’ was thoroughly shattered, as fragments of silver shards evaporating out before dissolving into nothing. When it shattered, it reinstated 100 health to Reef.
“Its calculated damage is……373 points!” Sheyan easily analyzed the collision.
And then, he threw out a flask.
A flask of flourishing curse-mix.
After the collision, the sturmbeest would inevitably halt briefly, allowing Sheyan to seize this gap to throw out his flask, as it smashed against the head of the Sturmbeest! Right now, the Sturmbeest had already left its immune to controlling effects state.
A formless shockwave swept out, a temporary confusion penetrated the giant beast as it sprawled to the ground, while grunting bewilderedly. It’s unstoppable ‘Wild Collision’ had finally ceased, but not only that, a fog of faint greenish miasma rapidly dispersed out; enveloping it within. The fog appeared like ants swarming over it, gnawing and nibbling at its limbs.
“Poison fog! Lowering the enemy’s movement and attack speed by 20%!”
One had to acknowledge, the colliding might of an enormous and bulky creature like the Sturmbeest was exceedingly dreadful. Its cumbersome weight added amplified deadliness to its reckless charging. However, it was important to note, its frightening weight also compounded inertia needed to maneuver back into a wild sprinting charge!
As for the effects of the poison fog, it definitely influenced its speed. After colliding with Reef with its maximum charging speed; in order for it to accelerate back to its maximum speed, it would require another 5 seconds. However, after being confused for 1 second in addition to the persisting 20% speed decline, the Sturmbeest now required an entire 15 seconds to accelerate to maximum speed.
Flying through the air and heavily crashing to the ground, the impact force continued dragging Reef for another 5-6 metres; uprooting clumps of grass and mud behind him along the way. Just when everyone was worried, Reef made an agile roll as he climbed back to his feet. Blood trickled down his scalp, covering his face instantly as he looked extremely miserable.
Without saying a word, Reef casually wiped away the blood in his eyes. Finally clasping his lightsabre shaft tightly, he strided in large steps towards the Sturmbeest!
Releasing a grandeur that of the mighty Sparta marching towards the battle of Thermopylae under the setting sun!
Before closing up on the Sturmbeest, Reef activated his ‘Faith guard’ once more. After squandering his MP away, Reef’s survivability undoubtedly improved once again. ‘Faith guard’ was indeed a rather incredible ability.
Normally, with only a hundred plus MP, Reef could only treat this ability as his trump card. But now with three hundred plus MP, Reef was able to cast one whenever he felt danger. The disparity between the past and present was simply too vast to assess.
Within 20 metres of the Sturmbeest, Reef unleashed his ‘Shattering Cardiac Roar’. A ferocious ripple swept out like a ring. However, the Sturmbeest only lost a little health, its movement shook a little before it recovered to its initial speed.
This was the outstanding speciality of a legendary creature – ‘Iron will’ !
The Sturmbeest buried its head and charged once again. Instead, the distance required to build its speed wasn’t adequate, resulting in its acceleration falling short of maximum. Reef immediately darted to the side, as he made a roll before jolting back up, before continue awaiting the beast sternly. Instead, the massive Sturmbeest had already poured its fullest weight forward, and was completely unable to retract its inertia; it stumbled several metres forward before scrambling to turn around.
Seizing this opportunity, Sheyan handed his ‘Endless spirited vodka’ to Reef, allowing him to gulp down two mouthfuls. Sheyan then signalled towards Reef, who didn’t even possess half HP now, signalling him to cut off 5-6 viperwolves who were fleeing away. Although Reef didn’t understand, he still gave up on the Sturmbeest and obeyed orders.
Sheyan himself then lunged towards a heavily wounded Slinger that was on his lateral side. Pulling out his white grade shotgun, he emptied his rounds to harvest the Slinger. It was as though he had completely given up on that Sturmbeest, and paid no attention to it!
“If you want chaos…..then I’ll give you chaos!” Sheyan’s eyes flickered with a lethal glare.
“ANNNGGGG!” At this moment, the cumbersome Sturmbeest scanned around its surroundings, as it released a bewildered long grunt. It then squinted its incomparably vicious bell-shaped eyes in search of a new target. Afterward, it no longer bothered much, burying its head as it initiate its wild charging. Presently, the entire battlefield situation had shaped up to become an increasing mess, a complete disorder! Yet right now, this chaotic battlefield caused an awkward phenomenon; a lack of accelerating space for the Sturmbeest. Unlucky contestants who were smashed by it only lost about half their health, or a little more!
At this moment, the majority of the crowd were berating and cursing. “Where did the f***king MT go?” Instead, Sheyan and Reef treated their words as fart, and lazily disregarded them.
Within a short 3 minutes, the entire western battlefield was in a total upheaval. The Sturmbeest grunted bewilderedly and furiously again, lifting its front hoofs and heavily stomping the ground. Right now, at least 3 contestants had died to it. Fortunately, Mogensha and the other sniper contestant were constantly guarded by Reef, allowing them to effortlessly unite their firepower. As for the battle situation right now, though the contestants were plagued with injuries and fatigue, the remainder of wild beasts were suffering the same fate.
As time sped by, the viperwolves and slingers were utterly eradicated, leaving behind only the cumbersome Sturmbeest wildly charging throughout the battlefield. Its gaze held contempt and great disdain, as it repeatedly bellowed furiously. Without the additional smaller pesky beasts loitering by its sides, the cumbersomeness of the Sturmbeest had finally became its greatest fatality.
Reef’s life had already recovered to 90% with bandages and medical supplements, he then started to directly confront and draw the Sturmbeest’s attention. Sheyan continued to assist him by his side. The chaotic situation immediately returned to its orderly state. Probably because victory had came smoothly in view of their earlier few skirmishes; hence, the contestants only realized now that the previous orderly state of the battlefield was actually unfavourable. As for the crux of the matter, it was all due to the quick wittedness of this MT in front of them, the same one they clearly neglected a while back!
At this moment, people finally started listening to Reef’s orders. Without selfish ambitions, they commenced destruction of the Sturmbeest’s left front leg. Yet noteworthily, as the Sturmbeest’s life force gradually plunged to a critical state, Sheyan and Reef started commencing their shady businesses. Once another close combatant approached, they would intentionally not intercept or draw away the Sturmbeest, allowing it to do their dirty work!
A ‘Son of Caden’ party member, an agile contestant wielding a double-edged blade, wanted to approach the beast in lieu of acquiring advantages. Yet Sheyan and Reef were already roughly clear on the habits of this Sturmbeest. Identifying this opportunity, they waited for the moment that contestant attacked before retreating. The agile contestant sank his double-edged blade into the Sturmbeest’s flesh, delivering a terrifying blow to it. However, he hadn’t anticipated that Sheyan and Reef would abruptly and shamelessly dodge away to spectate, not participating in blocking the Sturmbeest.
Consecutively, the Sturmbeest immediately retaliated against its nearest foe. With an enraged roar, it smashed its head into that agile contestant. The contestant hastily blocked with his double-edged blade, ultimately saving himself in time; but his life force was only 200 points. After suffering a merciless headbutt, he hurriedly executed his life saving ability and swallowed down a medicine; barely pulling his HP back up.
But right at that moment, the Sturmbeest had raised its towering giant hooves, and stomped down viciously!
A thunderous tremor shook the earth, unleashing a seismic wave. The ‘Warstomp’ severely injured that contestant, before the Sturmbeest came galloping in with a finishing blow. With a horrified shriek, the contestant was thrown 8 metres back, crashing down as his life similarly crashed to oblivion. But at this moment, when the Sturmbeest seemed to casting a vengeful glare towards the distant Mogensha, Sheyan and Reef instead hurriedly appeared in its line of sight, blocking away its charging path.
During the process of battling the Sturmbeest, all self-esteem he had lost to the Uruk-hais through the many cuts and bruises he received in the previous world, was finally redeemed. Though the Sturmbeest had an incredible offensive might of at least 150 – 250 points; but in comparison, Sheyan’s physique had reached a terrifying 45 points. His defence was now 22.5 + 2 = 24.5, absorbing at least 49% of damage! His innate ability absorbed 25 damage, as though absorbing a quarter of its attack! This was all exceedingly astronomical defensive statistics!
(TN: the Sturmbeest’s average damage is around 150 – 250, while its ‘Wild collision’ probably does more damage as seen from its max acceleration collision against Reef)
Everything must have a beginning and an end; for example the Red Bull I’m drinking now, or Michael Jackson’s passing, or the Sturmbeest’s life……as the contestants continued chiseling at it, its life finally declined to oblivion.
It was constantly thinking of shaking off the two pesky worms in its face, and go after the clamorous, annoying houseflies further away. However, its cumbersome physique and wounded legs repeatedly provided them with ample time to escape.
What was worse, was the fact the two pesky worms were dishing out decent damage. They were like little pebbles by the riverbank; appearing insignificant, but tough enough to break someone’s tooth! Carrying an unwilling grievance, this enormous beast sprayed out massive amounts of blood; emitting a reluctant and sorrowful grunt, as it despondently collapsed to the ground. Ultimately, dropping a brilliantly radiating, silver key!
At that very moment, contestants who participated in slaughtering the Sturmbeest instantly received 1000 contribution points from the RDA company.
This key…….obviously attracted every contestant’s attention. Instead, it was seized by Reef; without hesitation, he flung it into the party’s shared interspatial storage. Then he swept a provocative gaze around, but none stood forward to question him! Reef then blatantly issued.
“This key is mine, whoever is unhappy can step forward now.”
Nobody spoke up……after completing this domineering deed, Reef remained exceedingly composed. He continued with his own affairs as he sat by the ground, bandaging and mending his wounds. Discontented murmurs could be heard around, but none dared to project their resentment. Most chose to remain silent, because they understood; it was better for things to flow smoothly.
At this instant, Sheyan deeply realized the imposing dominance of a MT – ruling by force, an evil tyrant. Anger, that would be placed on others. Therefore, for even a noble and gentlemanly guy like Reef, snatching equipments were indeed reasonable!
After a brief rest, seeing that his own health had roughly recovered, Reef widened his eyes as he headed towards the crowd of ‘Sons of Caden’ members. He then fumed angrily.
“Why didn’t you guys follow my instructions? If you think my orders are questionable, then you should’ve raised it up previously! But once the operation commences, you should’ve followed accordingly!! Are you idiots on your first vacation in the realm? You don’t know the rules?!”
Honestly speaking, amongst the mortality ranks of the contestants, the ‘Sons of Caden’ members died the most! Especially that agile dual-edged blade user, he was their current leader. After being berated by Reef, a female holding onto a longbow directly screamed out.
“Who do you think you are? On what grounds, are you throwing your weight around for?! Also, that Sturmbeest was killed by everyone, on what grounds are you monopolizing its key?”
Reef glanced at her, snorting coldly before turning to leave. Puffing on a cigar at the side, Mogensha leaned back, his lips curving as he hugged his golden AK and laughed.
“Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that, sounds like you guys are feeling rather indignant. Then how about you guys be the tanker for the next round of beasts? Then nobody would bother.”
The woman’s face changed, gnashing her teeth at Mogensha’s back figure, but not daring to do anything. She suddenly glanced towards another close combatant in her party and ordered.
“Jemu! You hold the front next, you’ll take half the spoils.”
Jemu scoffed mockingly.
“What can a dead corpse do with battle spoils. Previously, treating me like wind after mission completion but after being pressured by others now, you finally realized my presence? In your dreams! You think wielding a shield and being a MT is a breeze? Let me tell you, without him and his formidable assistant, yes, that Seaman also at the frontlines; our f***king pathetic frontlines would’ve crumbled long ago!”
“Just look at that person on the right, yes, that one toying with those twin daggers. Do you know who is he? That is Lille who slaughtered 7 members of Ahdi’s party in one breath! Yes, that haughty, rash and ill-mannered brat, he was someone who wholeheartedly listened to Reef’s orders…..”
Meanwhile, this period of rest had concluded. Mogensha unloaded a clip towards the faraway pack of viperwolves who were still unearthing their dead comrades from the pit; naturally his actions agitated the remaining portion of viperwolves. However, regarding the viperwolves whose deadliness lies within their pack; after getting familiar with their attack patterns, their individual threat had lessened substantially.
But with sheer numbers, they still offered unparalleled terror.
After several contestants had coordinated with Reef’s formidable ‘Shattering Cardiac Roar’, the veterans who had long acclimatized to this world’s battles swiftly and efficiently concluded the battle with overwhelming superiority.
One noteworthy observation was that for the remainder of the battle; whatever keys or drop loots, Reef no longer hogged them for himself. Even when a dark blue glowing key surfaced beside him, it was no exception. As for Sheyan, he himself understood the logic of this; since he had eaten the meat, he should leave the soup for others, and wholeheartedly supported Reef’s behavior. In the long run, everyone still had to battle together as one. If things were done too excessively, then others would become dispirited or even rebel.
After the beast horde was cleansed, Reef called for 3 other influential and reputable contestants for a small meeting. After the meeting concluded, they formed a pact. Then they allowed that sentry contestant Uzel, an expert in reconnaissance belonging to the Gothic party, to head over to the northern and southern region to investigate their situation.
Right now, the Silver grade key earned through the supreme hegemony of MT Reef wasn’t opened yet. Since there was ample time now, they opened the silver chest. Glittering silver loot appeared with a list of notifications.
“You receive 4,200 utility points.”
“You receive 5 potential points.”
“You receive a giant bezoar. Valuable object/drug, exchangeable for 3000 utility points.”
“You receive a ring: Barbaric-demon pupil”
“You receive a horcrux: Sturmbeest’s Horcrux.”
**
“Ring: Barbaric-demon pupil.”
“Equipment rarity: Black.”
“Detail: Strength +3
“Detail: Spirit -4, charm -1, Basic long range combat -1 (If user doesn’t possess this ability, effect will be void)
“Equipment position: finger.”
“Material: Silicate calcium, two vulcanization salt, carbohydrate.”
“Equipment passive ability: Soul Irradiate – This pupil would occasionally strip off a fragment of the enemy’s soul, dealing 10 points of damage that ignore defence.”
“Equipment ability: Horn-rage – Within a distance of 8 – 35 metres, inciting a fanatical charge towards the enemy. Enemy will be stunned for 3 seconds, does not deal damage to enemy. During the charge, your movement speed will assume the extreme limits of the world’s difficulty, immune to all speed reduction effects.”
“Only when your strength vastly exceeds the target (Able to deal crushing damages), would you maintain the 100% accuracy rate of ‘Horn-rage’. If your strength is lesser than the target, this ability cannot be activated.”
“No matter if you struck your target or not, you will be stunned up to 1-6 seconds after ‘Horn-rage’ concludes. (Duration of stun is determined by strength, the higher the strength, the shorted the stunned duration). Cooldown of 180 seconds.”
“Weight: 14 g.”
Description: Brimming with vengeance, this is the pupil of the Sturmbeest. Although its soul has vanished, a portion of the Sturmbeest’s abilities remained. Of course, for a Sturmbeest who worshipped fleshy strength, it naturally weakens your spirit.
Sturmbeest’s horcrux
Equipment rarity: Silver Storyline grade
Usage effect: Usable on black grade equipments / weapons. Transforming them into soul artifacts, upgrading the weapon/equipment grade to Silver storyline grade.
Warning: If the horcrux is incompatible with the equipment, horcrux will be destroyed.
Material: ghost
Weight: 3 g
Description: Planet Pandora’s special circumstances has caused horcruxes to appear by a wide margin. Undoubtedly, this is due to the existence of the Avatar’s planet Eywa.
(TN: Eywa is the guiding force and deity of planet Pandora and the Na’vis)
*
Identifying that slut Jinkuang would be very interested in the giant Bezoar, Sheyan confided with Reef and Mogensha, before keeping it. As for the ring, after a series of discussion, both Mogensha and Reef had some form of reliance on Spirit, while the 3 points of strength would be a huge boost to Sheyan. Thus, Sheyan took it, and reckoned that its performance would be mindblowing if upgraded to a silver storyline grade.
Concurrently, this world’s first milestone ‘Meat owner’ had been accomplished. It rewarded a title ‘Meat owner’, which increased 10% damage to the wild creatures of this world. Undoubtedly, this title took first wearable priority, although a 10% damage increase was rather commonly seen.
After 5 minutes, the reconnaissance guy nimbly rushed back. At present, the northern and southern sides were still locked in ferocious combat like a wildfire. After burying the carcasses in the western region which led to a lower enticement force on their side, many beasts had filtered off to the other regions.
According to Sheyan’s previous investigations, the northern battlefield was held by the entire Illume-union. As for the southern battlefield, its constitution was slightly complicated. With a party named ‘Los Marcos’ as its core, the remaining 2-3 tiny parties comprised of many loose contestants. Moreover, there wasn’t a leader type, cornerstone character like Reef. According to theory, the southern battlefield should be in dire straits. However, in light of the latest report – the northern Illume-union region was actually the one locked in a difficult situation!
The Illume-union was clearly stronger, yet their situation turned out to be the worst. Hence, there could only be one reason.
The appearance of a legendary creature! The creature storming through the western and southern regions was a cumbersome, solid and mighty legendary creature, the Sturmbeest. Instead, the legendary creature the Illume-union was facing, was actually a giant leopard like creature!
According to Uzel’s description, it seemed like the creature was the apex land predator of planet Pandora, a Thanator! Which was also known as Palulukan in the na’vi tongue, which meant dry mouth, bringer of fear!
Not only did it possessed shocking strength, it had the agility that a Sturmbeest lacked!
Just by thinking of Archeaphill’s heavy shield, one could tell this was indeed an unfavourable match up. Once he squared off with a highly agile enemy, multiple loopholes could definitely be exploited. These loopholes not only mean that his situation would be perilous, but even the defensive line with Archeaphill as its core, would be burdened with holes.
Citing the earlier western region battle; once Reef retreated, Sheyan would still be able to temporarily mend the defensive gap. Yet even if Archeaphill could afford to leave his fort to deal with the Thanator, how would Huckle possibly assume such an immense responsibility? Never ever forget, alongside the Thanator were floods of viperwolves and slingers. More crucially, they were further reinforced by loose beasts from the western region……
Reef stroked his brows as he spoke to Sheyan.
“Even though I have a previous grudge with the Illume-union; but talking about now, if they were to be defeated, then we definitely wouldn’t be able to hold the fort until the Golden side Mission surfaces.”
Sheyan’s gaze flickered, immediately recalling about those few core members of the illume-union that hadn’t acted out. He immediately called Uzel over to inquire on several matters before ordering into the party channel.
“Rescuing the Illume-union is definitely a must, but I feel we should advance to the southern region first.”
Reef was slightly surprised, wanting to question but Sheyan immediately hastened him.
“Time is tight.”
Reef sighed deeply, nodding his head as he followed according to their discussion; selecting 6 guys with the heavy burden of aiding the southern battlefield. Amongst the six were sniper Jin Ximin that Reef had rescued previously, twin-daggers agile specialist Lille, party member Jemu of the ‘Sons of Caden’s’ and bowman 70mah of the ‘Gothic’ party. Apart from Jemu, everyone else was a high ranking member in their respective areas.
Currently back at the southern battlefield, it wasn’t a safer haven like what they had imagined it to be. The combination of viperwolves and slingers sufficed to cause headaches. What more, throwing additionally into the pot, was a tyrannical giant bull recklessly charging around, dissolving the defensive formations into disarray. Still, their offensive output seemed rather exceptional, and they followed the tactic of annihilating the slingers first, then the viperwolves and finally the Sturmbeest. Nevertheless, they still had to constantly evade the charge of the Sturmbeest. Since they didn’t possess a Reef calibre person to tank the Sturmbeest, they had to cruelly sacrifice lives in the process!
This tactic was undoubtedly equivalent to offering any arbitrary life to the boss Sturmbeest. Strictly speaking, once the Sturmbeest locked onto someone, based on its cumbersome flaw, then chances of surviving for long and even escaping would surface as long as one repeatedly circled around it! However, that was in a 1v1 situation! This was a messy as hell battlefield, where contestants were distracted and deadlocked in gruesome combat with other viperwolves and slingers. Therefore, death was inevitable.
But at this moment, Sheyan and company appeared!
With Mogensha leading, the 4 long range combatants raised their guns/bows in unison, aiming towards the Sturmbeest’s buttocks that were in sight, before firing! Instantly, a miserably mutilated and ruptured anus could be seen.
Right then and there, the massive creature’s eyes turned bloodshot; its gigantic hooves braked abruptly, producing 6 deep depressions on the ground. Amidst the puff of sand and dust, it turned and buried its huge head forward. Without hesitation, it charged towards Mogensha!
Similar to previous times, before the Sturmbeest could connect with its target, Reef had cast his ‘Courage’ ability. Like a war god, he sped in front of Mogensha! Raising his shimmering silver ‘Alien skull’ shield. A muffled boom erupted, Reef was once again sent flying as he left a trail of sorrowful blood wafting through the air!
The contestants of the southern region all gasped in surprise!
As Reef was knocked flying, he did a somersault in mid air and landed half kneeling which his left hand pressing onto the ground. Then calmly and cooly, he stood up and bandaged himself. As for the Sturmbeest, it froze right after the collision. Seizing this opportunity, Sheyan reused old tactics; tossing a flask over. Then he proceeded to cover the bandaging Reef, earning precious time for him to heal up.
The contestants at the rear naturally seized this chance to pour in frenzied assaults! With someone curbing the danger at the front, the tremendously cumbersome Sturmbeest found it extremely tough to free himself from the yoke of its aggressors. The southern contestants were in an uproar, because everyone desired to be a naked snatch thief!
Even a moron would know that a legendary creature would produce a Silver storyline grade equipment, even higher grades were a possibility. However, they were still being tied down by hundreds of viperwolves and slingers. Moreover, another notion welled up within them; which was how to snatch the Sturmbeest back from Sheyan’s hands. Perhaps, only if someone possessed unprecedented might, and could deal a fatal blow to the Sturmbeest instantly. However, one still had to consider if they could tank the impending terror of the Sturmbeest’s charge…..
Sheyan and the rest were both battling and retreating, gradually luring this bad boy towards the western region. With their earlier experience, though the Sturmbeest was massively formidable, being under the constant pressure from all directions, its life would swiftly deplete.
At the moment the Sturmbeest’s health plunged to 20%, Sheyan suddenly noticed the back of his hand! He discovered his hairs had all erected up,
This sensation…….
This was indeed a difficult sensation to describe, it was as though his soul was being stabbed through!
Almost instantly, a gunfire echoed from the distance. The gunfire was strange, it sounded like a delayed echo that bounced through a thousand mountains valley…..the sound of an ancient mellifluous echo.
When the gunshot resounded, Sheyan immediately felt a tremendous threat. He ferociously darted forward horrendously, rolling onto the ground as dust and soil smeared against his face. Then he swung back in astoundment.
The Sturmbeest in front of him was momentarily stunned, every single attack struck against its body.
Then, its basketball sized eyes suddenly exploded, black and greyish fluids gushed out; raining over Reef and the twin-daggers agile contestant, Lille, beside him. Ash grey semi-liquid fluid spilled out of its nostrils and mouth – it was the Sturmbeest’s brain sap. After a brief moment, the giant beast seemed to be stripped off its soul, and crashed to the ground!
What sort of frightening assault was this; one that could deal a one-hit-KO strike to an enormous beast, with close to 20,000 HP remaining?!
Sheyan turned his head in shock, viewing a skinny tall figure keeping a rifle. Cyan smoke lingered persistently in the air, as the figure turned around and headed back towards the south; adopting a somewhat haughty and forlorn figure. His figure arrogantly trudged forward, just like a lone wolf staggering into the distance. For some unknown reason, Sheyan suddenly recalled Diaz, who had died to the Metals professor’s hands.
Bunch of western snatch thieves! I, your father can snatch it back too!
No doubt, that contestant belonged to the southern region. Although his gunshot was unable to change the fact that Sheyan and the rest would still obtain the dropped key, he had snatched away a huge portion of battle contribution. It was like a slap in the face to the western contestants. One must understand, the contestants alive now were mostly all exceptional ones. Who could tolerate such an act of provocation?
Consecutively, malicious glares flashed in several eyes, especially the twin-daggers agile contestant, Lille. It was utterly possible to imagine a guy like him handling long range combatants viciously; once he got close, everything would simply point to disaster. Fortunately, everyone’s attention quickly flashed back to the silver glowing key that was dropped.
This time, Reef didn’t monopolize the key. The silver key was to be arranged according to their pact – auctioned on the spot, the proceeds of the auction would then be evenly split between the participating contestants. In the end, a weapon emerged, called ‘Knocker-horn’.
This weapon was a single-handed knife; enhancing strength and agility attributes. Its effects included blood loss damage, 8 points of damage neglecting opponent’s defence. Yet, it just had to have a unique equipping requirement.
That was lvl 5 ‘Basic eloquence’ (Based on charm). The weapon’s description was – you had to convince the weapon’s soul to be able to display its greatest potential………
No doubt, this was starkly incompatible with Sheyan. To him who always lacked utility points and potential points, he would even take months and years to make an investment to reach ‘Basic Eloquence lvl 5’. Moreover, before this, the trio had squandered their wealth before entering, and could at most produce 3,000 utility points. Their networth was even inadequate for the the lowest auction bid!
After a series of intense battle between giants, the weapon was purchased by the party ‘Sons of Caden’ with 47,000 utility points, and 6 potential points.
(TN: meaning squabbling or negotiating)
Author’s notes:
Destroying the 20,000 HP Sturmbeest in a split second, is indeed a contestant’s ability. But, using this ability has loads of restrictions, and will definitely not influence the balance of this novel. When this ability is publicly announced later, everyone will understand.
Guess the name of that ability!
Clue: The name of this ability comes from a fiery movie’s name.
Observing the current influence Reef and Sheyan possessed, that longbow woman from before shrank into a corner; feeling vexed and dispirited, she no longer dared to speak up anymore. Reef wasn’t a scumbag tyrant; he gestured everyone else to rest up till they were almost completely healed. Then they proceeded to rush towards the Illume-union’s region.
One had to admit, Reef was indeed one who understood the bigger picture. Although he had dueled with the Illume-union several times, since both parties were now on the same boat, he would naturally think for the other party. Yet truthfully, this was also his weakness. A selfless and righteous individual, this was no doubt a tough path to traverse on in this realm. As the proverb goes; water that is too clear has few fish, and one who is too critical has few friends. If his manner of governance always differed from others, then even one who possessed unsurmountable strength would be washed out eventually.
The reason why Sheyan had decided to help the southern battlefield first, was obviously for the Illume-union to pile up more casualties. This was due to staying with them briefly before. Hence, he understood the underlying terror of their party. He reckoned that they would definitely become their greatest enemy with regards to vying for the Golden side mission. Sheyan didn’t harbour extravagant hopes that the major powers of the Illume-union would suffer losses. But at least, the supporting crew would be damaged substantially. This was akin to sampling if a citrus was too sweet, one had to first peel off its external skin!
While Sheyan followed Reef as they arrived hastily at the northern battlefield, he finally caught glimpse of Pandora’s apex land predator, Thanator. It’s overall appearance was akin to a magnified black leopard; with its glossy black skin and yellow/red stripes, its maliciousness multiplied manifold.
Around its rear skull, there were 10 strands of beard like sensory quills. These quills were like sensory amplifiers, increasing the Thanator’s senses by ten folds. As it widened its jaws, this savage creature revealed a folded upper lip, leaving its largest fangs to stretch out. The speed of its neck and jaw strike would swiftly crunch out terrifying damage to enemies. Moreover, it had solid armour covering its neck all the way to its tail.
At present, this impressive legendary creature was ravaging through the crowd. However, the Thanator’s mobility no longer appeared agile; and vividly noticeable, it seemed to have glue poured over it. Such a hunting trick that was as subtle and gentle, as mundane as breathing or eating, definitely required a huge consumption of energy to produce it. As for its ferocious claws and lethal fangs, it could only lash them out against several summoned creatures pestering around it. The contestants were frantically dishing out damage, beating till it roared passively.
Previously when Uzel scouted, he didn’t dare go near the battlefield. Hence, he couldn’t obtain a report on the Thanator. Now, he displayed his full abilities.
Junior Thanator (Tier-2 legendary creature) (Thunder beast)
Na’vi tongue: Palulukan
Scientific name: Thanatora Ferox
Height: 2.5 metres, exceeds 5.5 metre in length
Weight: over 2 tons
Description: Pandora’s apex land predator. Six legged sprinter. Even Na’vi, renowned for their courage, would shiver in fear by its approach. Na’vi folks would never sing nor dance to extol it.
Strength: 30 points
Agility: 50 points (Max)
Physique: 25 points
Spirit: ? ?
Intelligence: ? ?
Legendary creature ability: ‘Mother-earth skin’ lvl 4 – Grants additional 15,000 HP/ lvl 4 effect, grants additional 6 HP per 5 seconds regeneration.
Legendary creature ability: ‘Iron will’ lvl 1 – most speed reduction effects would be bad against this creature.
Creature ability: ‘Lightning pace’ (Passive) – movement speed and attack speed are significantly enhanced.
Creature ability: ‘Brutal’ (Passive) – When attacking, it easily results in loss of blood, fracturing or other negative states. The Thanator’s assault damage increases by 10% against enemies in negative states, maximum stack of 50%.
Creature ability: ‘Quill sensor’ (Passive) – Possess an extremely powerful foreseeing sense towards danger. Lowers enemy’s explosive strike rate by 30%, raising its own evasion by 15%.
Creature ability: ‘Tail-whip’ (Active) – The Thanator’s tail is its greatest weapon. It can ruthlessly slash opponents like a whip, dealing a (strength x4) damage and stun the enemy. Duration of 5 seconds.
Realm war additional bonus: grant additional 200,000 HP / grants additional 30 HP per 5 seconds regeneration.
Suddenly, the Thanator sent a contestant flying with its tail, before turning to glare at the valkyrie’s interior channel; as it howled sorrowfully. Its sensory quills suddenly swelled and flared up, demonstrating a menacing expression. The movement of these quills were either for warning or flaunting, which was rather similar to a peacock displaying its plume during mating season!
Instead, Sheyan took notice of the Thanator’s savage flashlight gaze towards the front, he couldn’t help but look over as well. Eventually, he caught a glimpse of a suspended Zi in mid air, within the darkness of the valkyrie’s channel. Her legs were roughly hovering a metre above the ground, and one of her revolving rhombus globes had vanished. She then stretched her left palm remotely towards the Thanator, and maintained this posture.
“Seems like we’ve came too early.” Sheyan sighed in his heart. With one sweep of his gaze, he could tell the Illume-union had lost over 10 members. However, their displayed prowess was merely the tip of the iceberg; such show of force was already extremely lofty, yet beneath that, hid the majestic portion of the iceberg which was still a mystery! The entire Illume-Union party appeared exceedingly calm.
Furthermore, Sheyan also noticed that Reef and Archeaphill should’ve been former acquaintances. Their stares towards each other seemingly rubbed out tension sparks.
Faced with this situation, the westerners dared not be rash; but only remained at the outskirts and lured several elite viperwolves before slaughtering them. At least 2 dark blue keys were produced from that. Then they returned to their western region and made further defensive preparations. Of course right now, there was no need for any instructions. The contestants who had tasted the sweetness of strategy begun to take care of the carcasses themselves, cleansing the bloodstains neatly. They had even dug 3 different pit locations this time, naturally this was to better segregate the famished wild beasts.
At this moment, a black cloud of beasts once again approached from afar…….
***
Nightfall. After an entire 4 hours, the blood soaked and brave fighters finally heard a deafening broadcast from the internal of the valkyrie.
�� Please return to the shuttle, please return to the shuttle ��
�� Shuttle’s powered unilateral nuclear fusion power engine is restored. 3 minutes to optical interference shade. Defensive shade possesses untold camouflaging capability. During the night, Pandorian creatures will be unable to pinpoint the shuttle’s position. The safety of the passengers will be secured till 8 the next day ��
Upon hearing this news, many contestants immediately slumped down in exhaustion after entering the interior channel of the valkyrie; splashing water onto their faces as they sunk to sleep. Actually, Sheyan had realized one thing from the battling. Digging pits and burying the carcasses could only lessen the quantity of ordinary incoming beasts. Those powerful legendary creatures seemed to be unaffected one bit.
During the last waves of attacks, though there weren’t new sightings of high tiered legendary creatures; the sheer quantity of them would be doubled or even tripled every time. Such a quantity was something that even a powerful party like the Illume-union couldn’t withstand. Fortunately, the legendary creatures didn’t flock over, and most of the ordinary aggressors were enticed by the buried carcasses. Thus, it allowed the contestants a break through chance.
The other regions were similarly no fools, after have bizarre packs of beasts running over from the western region, they immediately started to make investigations of the western side; trying to understand why the wild beasts were seemingly deterred by their side. In the end, such a simple matter of cleaning up the battlefield remains was rapidly learned by them. Still, after persisting till night fall, the remaining quantity of contestants had been reduced to around half!
But of course one must understand; it wasn’t that many contestants had been killed, the keyword was reduced. Contestants who had survived till now, had long ago learnt to accept reality. Therefore, many contestants upon realizing things weren’t looking good, had renounced their participation; paying up a hefty price of 3 highest basic attribute and 5 achievement points. Besides, living remained the basic principle.
At this moment, 5 RDA workers from the cockpit of the valkyrie emerged. They walked down from the highest floor, and finally stopped at the central region of the shuttle. After an announcement that merely scratched the surface on what was wrong in the shuttle, they located a place to settle down as well.
Every contestant could utilize pocket computers they were given, to engage in inquiries. Furthermore, they could purchase medical supplies / equipment / recipes / unknown strange objects etc. However, the only currency usable was their RDA battle contributions.
In a flash, those 5 workers were naturally encircled by an impenetrable crowd, so much so that even a mosquito would find it hard to join in. Sheyan constantly observed the 5 workers in deep thought. He even attempted to climb up valkyrie floor, but was instead warned by a robotic sound upon reaching the top; warning him of this forbidden zone. If he persisted in entering, his battle contributions would be deducted entirely by the RDA company; and the ship-based weapons would turn hostile.
Of course Sheyan wouldn’t persist in entering the second floor, forbidden zone. He pondered thoughtfully before nodding, then returning back down and coup himself in a corner. At present, most of the contestants had assembled at the central aisle of the shuttle’s hall. They were sitting in distinct groups, and casted watchful glances towards each other.
Sheyan leaned against the wall to rest. After a while, Reef carried a gust of wind as he plunged his butt beside him. With a rather ecstatic voice, he lauded.
“Boss! We really need to stake everything in this time! I say this damned world has such a scary difficulty level, but the items we can exchange for are equally great! Hurry up and take a look!”
Currently, Sheyan had raked in massive exploitations from his supporting adventure. His offense wasn’t considered strong, thus, he frequently couldn’t obtain the contribution rewards of dealing the final finishing blow to enemies. However, countless contestants couldn’t shy away from the bonuses of his supporting gene-mixes! Every time they killed something, Sheyan chiseled away at their contributions!
Although individually it didn’t amount to much, the accumulated total was astonishing. Sheyan’s battle contribution rate had discretely ranked amongst the bests of the contestants, totalling more than 8,000 RDA battle contribution points. Something worth noting was that all contestants seemed to possess an ‘amicable’ relationship with the RDA company; it had no relations to battle contributions whatsoever.
When the contestant crowd surrounding the 5 RDA workers significantly lessened, Sheyan finally strolled over, requesting for the list of purchasables. The workers initially looked at Sheyan with abhor, probably due to his low charm. However, after realizing something about Sheyan, they gasped in astonishment.
“So it is actually Mr Lieutenant! Sir, I’ve heard about your legendary adventures before……wow, your contributions to the company are exceptionally generous. Please don’t worry, we will definitely provide suitable discounts for interesting merchandise.”
Sheyan nodded, the menu list exhibited fully in a flurry. The foremost display was a long list of warning:
Research Development Administration disclaimer notice:
Announcement.
Home base earth planet exploration regulations, no. 2311 and no. 3188 states:
The Research Development Administration cannot hire active military personnels as their armed fighters.
Exploring squad members cannot use weapons of mass destruction. Only high technology weapons of 50 years ago can be used for battles in foreign celestial bodies.
Weapon based aircrafts cannot exceed the latest model of the Aerospatiale SA-2 Samson, and the Scorpion Gunship (Aircraft).
Every weapon is programmed to be unable to inflict harm onto humankind.
………..
The list of disclaimers, was due to the RDA company’s motive of planet exploration and not starting a war. To preserve the safety of their workers, they had to employ armed fighters. Apart from that, the RDA company was already an extremely powerful company. Therefore, in order to prevent the RDA from further technological advances and amassing greater military influence, the Earth government had prevented them from using weapons of mass destruction.
Thus, the armed fighters employed were still stuck in the era of Star Trek, still utilizing regular chemical based bullets and ordinary rifles. They weren’t even allowed laser guns, needless to say space tanks, obliteration warships and other heavy space weaponry; because these didn’t belong to antiques of the 21st century. The best they had was the ‘Amplified Mobility Platform (AMP suits)’ , the robots seen in the movie. However, that too was also a distant descendant of first military exoskeleton used by Earth in the mid-21st century. Which goes to say, during the timeline of the movie itself, every mechanics involved were historic goods of the previous century.
Sheyan skimmed through everything, as he hurriedly browsed the menu. Even though he was already mentally prepared, he couldn’t help exclaiming in surprise. For some unknown reasons, the RDA company actually exhibited every single available merchandise in their menu, from items to equipments, to recipes to unknown strange objects. Only, a striking font marked out the purchasing requirements behind each segment.
As for Sheyan, his attention was locked onto the bottom few items, it was obvious these were the powerful objects that Reef mentioned.
Integrated animal controlling technique case: Pandora is host to many savage and hostile creatures; however, humans discovered that Na’vi’s are able to easily tame some. Afterward, it was discovered that Na’vi’s external nervous system is linked to the outcome of taming creatures.
After analyzing the Na’vi’s nervous architecture along with the creatures of Pandora, human scientists have invented a Mental control device, to tame the creatures. During their experiments, scientists have successfully controlled the Direhouse, Hammerhead Titanothere, Sturmbeest and various creatures. But till now, scientist are still unable to control the primitive vicious instincts of Viperwolves and the Thanator; only simple controlling reactions are recorded. However, due to the reliability and unpopular nature of these inventions, current research had been stalled.
This Integrated case is an affiliated product of said research. Upon using, there is a chance of controlling the aforementioned creatures (And ordinary animals). Maximum usage of 3 times before exhausting its capabilities.
Purchasing value: 12,000 RDA battle contributions. (10,800, legend level discount)
AMP military exoskeleton (Amplified Mobility Platform). Hailed as the AMP suit, it is a human operated, multi-purpose battle suit. The military credits it as ‘An Apache with arms’. AMP suit height: 4.205 metres. Width: 2.83 metres. Weight: 1,700 kg.
Pre-installed weapons: Kevlar – High carbon steel alloy battle knife
Additional installations (additionally purchased):
Gau-90 30mm hip-fired autocannon,
Explosive incendiary rounds
Global Positioning System (GPS)
Front Infrared panel,
Radar etc, navigation tools.
HP 5,000, defence 60.
Can be repaired.
Purchasing value: 15,000 (13,500 discount) RDA battle contributions.
Unmodeled Amnio tank
Amnio tanks are mimicked after functions of the mammalian womb. It can be used for growing cloned animals, humans(rarely) and replace limbs and organs. At present, it can successfully grow avatar bodies.
Growth takes place in a suspension fluid; with controlled temperature and constantly monitored chemical composition. Above it are placentiums, which function similarly to a mammalian placenta; supplying nutrients and hormones to the cultivating organism. Simultaneously with the supervision of monitoring equipment, controlling nutrients and other growth stimulants.
Avatars are supplied with a synthetic umbilical cord; jolting currents to stimulate muscle growth during the incubation process.
You can use the Amnio tank to cultivate your own cells, and avoid the first descent of the death god!
After purchasing this special item, it will be delivered to your personal room.
Once your body dies, the Amnio tank core computer will activate, remodeling according to the cells you left behind. You will receive a new life, but your equipment will be lost. The realm’s evaluation of you will drop as well. Therefore, the next few worlds you venture in will be relatively safer.
Purchasing value: 20,000 (18,000 discount) RDA battle contributions.
Quantity available: This device is a failed model of Avatar modelling Amnio Tank. Hence, it only has 8 available.
Upon seeing that, Sheyan instantly understood why Reef was so fascinated! This ‘Unmodeled Amnio Tank’, actually contained a resurrection ability that all contestant’s yearned for even in their dreams. Besides, its valuation was only a mere 20,000 battle contributions! One must understand, slaying a legendary creature already granted 1,000 battle contribution. Moreover, ordinary beasts covered the earth and the skies……
After seeing this, Sheyan instantly asked Reef if contribution points could be traded! However, the answer he received was ‘no’.
“Indeed that is so.” Sheyan pondered as he nodded.
Following that, he browsed through the menu list again, and very blatantly traded all his 8,000 contribution point! Strictly speaking, through hard work the next day, he could very easily save up 20,000 RDA battle contributions. At most, he could still exchange them for an AMP suit! Instead, Sheyan had squandered it all without hesitation.
He procured the following items:
Hydra Armour: Its name derived from the series of protrusions at its waist. It is favourably light, enhanced toughness while preserving high mobility. Because of its focused design, it can reduce the damage dealt by Pandora creatures by 30%, and raise your movement speed on Pandora; it also has a pre-installed oxygen mask.”
During its course of designing, many factors were considered in. Therefore, this hydra armour can be pasted over your armour surface.
Valuation: 5,000 (4,500) RDA battle contributions: Unable to be brought out of this world.
**
Nail gun: This is a highly precise, long range firearm. Its body is long, and its speciality lies in its bullet composition of titanium; allowing its nails to pierce most types of heavy armour. Its primary use is in destroying vehicles and other equipment/devices. Of course, it can be used to deal with various armoured creatures of Pandora.
In view of this weapon’s astonishing weight and recoil, you must have at least 30 points of strength to utilize it. Damage power of 100 – 140 points. Neglects 50% of defence.
Infrared laser, accuracy target device (Add on): With this precious object, even if your aiming is horrendously indescribable, you can turn into a 100 shot-100 hit gun deity. What you need to do is something even a 5 year old kid can manage; aim that lethal red dot towards your desired target, and press the trigger…….
Nail gun valuation: 2,400 (2,160 discount) battle contributions. Infrared laser, accuracy target device valuation: 2,000 (1,800) battle contributions. This weapon is unable to be brought out of this world.
Lastly, I need to inform you. According to federal law regulation 14, whenever you aim the firearm at any humans; note, any single human, the microcomputer within the gun will automatically lock the magazine. Hence, malfunction or other unpredictable variable may occur. I sincerely apologize and beg for your understanding, as the RDA company is merely a resource extraction company, and not an ammunitions company.
After purchasing two items that could enhance his battle and survival capabilities by a level, Sheyan squandered the rest of his battle contributions on ammunition – the ‘Nail gun’ required titanium nail bullets which weren’t cheap at all! Fortunately, Sheyan’s +1 legend level was rather beneficial now. Right now, as countless others were observing him, summoning Jinkuang was simply too provocative. Thus, Sheyan didn’t summon him to haggle over the price, preventing others from noticing this shameless hidden trump card of his.
Following that, Sheyan engaged in a brief discussion with Reef and Mogensha inside their party transmission channel. After a short exchange of words, Reef and Mogensha’s face suddenly changed drastically, and ultimately turned ashen. They hurriedly rushed over to squander cleanly, all their battle contributions!!!
Because their intense discussions were done in the party channel, others could only take notice of their ugly expressions. However, many other contestants had comrades that perished in battle, and sunken faces were everywhere. Honestly speaking, if Reef and Mogensha were beaming with pleasure and all smiles, that would truly attract attention.
Another noteworthy thing was that 4 other legendary creatures had appeared within the beast tide during the day. However, out of the 4 legendary creatures, only 3 dropped keys. Amongst the keys, one of them exploded forth with utility points only; which was something Sheyan had encountered before. Nothing else came up, just a lump sum of utility points. As for the 2 other silver keys, 3 rather valuable objects surfaced – A silver grade ring, a black grade Skeletal-bow and another horcrux.
These 3 items trended towards long range or magic based contestants. Mogensha already had his excellent golden AK and Sparta spear, of course he looked down on that black grade bone-bow. Hence, party Ace didn’t really require those 3 items. After dividing the proceeds, their party storage was now brimming with 53,300 utility points and 15 potential points.
After cleaning out his battle contributions, Mogensha suddenly revealed a startled expression. Quietly, he transmitted to Sheyan through the party channel.
“Boss, one of that resurrection tools ‘Unmodeled Amnio tank’ has been sold.”
Sheyan was currently holding onto a cup as he drank water. Upon hearing this news, his grip tightened, causing the glass cup to emit creaking sounds followed by clear cracks appearing. This was because Sheyan himself possessed 8,000 battle contributions; hence, he obviously knew what devilish strength one needed to earn an entire 20,000 battle contributions in such a short span of time!
“Indeed, there is always a taller mountain.” Sheyan sighed in his heart. He originally thought his personal establishment of this steel strong trio party was flawless and unprecedented. Yet now, it seems like his personal judgement was indeed biased.
For some unknown reason, the moment Sheyan heard of the resurrection tool ‘Unmodeled Amnio tank’ being sold off, he instantly recalled that southern contestant; the one that dealt a one-hit-ko shot to the Sturmbeest! Then he thought of the core members of the Illume-union, before another audacious notion jolted through his brain.
“The buyer, it could very well be them………”
In the blink of an eye, news of that most valuable and limited edition resurrection tool spreaded like wildfire. Like a stone tossed into the lake invoking ripples, word of it travelled to everyone’s ears. Time seemed to rush through like an undercurrent. Every single contestant started glaring at the skies with fierce expressions, as though they wished for the skies to turn brighter quickly; eagerly anticipating the next wave of beasts.
The next day,
Morning,
9.18 am.
The contestants had repelled two full waves of beasts already. The passionate craze and desires incited by the resurrection tool had gradually diminished.
No one understood why there were so many wild beasts. Even after clearing and cleaning up the battlefield till not a single blood stain was left after each battle; when the next wave came, an unfathomable quantity of wild beasts returned in a swirl of dust!!!
They seemed to be blown over by a hurricane gale, like a back cloud of hailstones smashing in; bristles and thorns of the earth piercing in, stabbing in one inch at a time, trampling forward steadfastly across the horizon!!
Comparing with respect to all contestants; Sheyan, Reef and Mogensha became supremely low-key. Sheyan even discarded the initiative of proactively traversing through battlefields to earn battle contributions from his gene-mixes. He silently went about with his own affairs, choosing not to fight over meritorious contributions even one bit. Due to their conduct, their influence and position declined greatly. Yet this was reality, the greater someone’s ability, the higher their authority.
As for the current battles, tier 3 legendary creatures had started showing up. The waves of beasts no longer fought a bitter fight to the death, but instead carried notions of retreat. Hence, after the two waves of beasts had retreated, the entire western region contestants had suffered casualties amounting to half. The remainder were injured, but most importantly, they hadn’t rake in a single good fortune! Although no one knew how the other 3 regions were doing, but had an inkling they everyone were probably trapped on the same boat.
(TN: During previous battles, though the beasts were intelligent and retreated from danger, they still fought as a whole and perished as a whole. However now, the beast horde would retreat entirely as well)
Sheyan casted a glance towards Reef in preparation to execute accordingly to their earlier plan. All of a sudden, sparse and fragmented cheers could be heard amongst the contestant crowd. Closely following that, from within the channels of the valkyrie, an earth shaking sensation tremored tremendously; as though an enormous heavy beast was about to emerge from within.
Following that, step by the step, it wasn’t a wild beast that emerged from the shuttle’s channel.
It was an artificial intelligent steel monstrous beast! A terrifying weapon specially bred for war!
In the end, it was a contestant that could no longer endure; lacking only 1,000 battle contributions to hit the 20,000 mark, sadly, the contestant had reach a stage of being an oil lamp that was about to dry up. Thus, an ‘AMP suit’ was exchanged for battle contributions! Piloting the outdated ferocious machine, the contestant stomped into the battlefield!!
The one piloting the ‘AMP Suit’ was that longbow woman from the ‘Sons of Caden’ party. She casted a disdainful glance towards Sheyan and the rest, before immediately replacing Reef and Sheyan’s core position entirely; proceeding to usher frenzied bombardment against the third wave of beasts.
More and more contestants started following suit, exchanging their contributions for ‘AMP suits’. This was because to their horror, the offensive capabilities and sheer quantity of the beast horde was crescendoing to unbelievable heights. During yesterday’s assault, Mountain Banshees only made an appearance once from the skies, but they shockingly was one of the primary forces today. In addition to the swift demons on land, an utterly dreadful calamity rained down on them.
Only death awaited one who still harbored hopes of amassing 20,000 battle contributions! Covering the heavens, the torrents of mountain banshees swooped in unhindered as they demolished the contestants. As for Sheyan and party Ace, they all coincidentally purchased that ‘Hydra armour’ which reduced the damage they received by 30%. Even Mogensha felt rather calm under the constant protection of Sheyan and Reef.
The third wave of beasts were finally repelled.
Simultaneously, the valkyrie broadcasted loudly once again.
「Attention, attention! The next wave will be the final one for today!」
This message undoubtedly injected adrenaline into every contestant. Peeking around at the heroic ‘AMP Suits’ around them, these unfeeling and monstrous steel mechanical beasts, they completely forgot about their injuries as an inexhaustible conviction ignited within. Hence, after simply bandaging their wounds, they took up positions and prepared for battle once again!
Indeed because these monstrous steel beasts had fully replaced Reef’s position; when the fourth wave of beasts arrived, perpetually no one noticed that Reef and his two buddies had disappeared. Of course, they hadn’t assume great risks of charging into the beautiful yet remote forest of treacherous danger. Instead, they headed back into the depths of the valkyrie.
Within the steel channel, a deathly silence was observed barring only the wafting echoes of footsteps.
Direction lights dimly flickered, slowly attempting to cover the repulsiveness of the darkness.
At present, there was only a single RDA company worker left within the centre aisle of the valkyrie. He bowed politely and inquired respectfully.
“Sirs, may I be of service?”
Sheyan stood in front of him, smiling as he replied.
“Yes.”
With the help of Jinkuang, they cleaned up whatever measly battle contributions they had on hand. Although purchasing equipment was out of the question, they squandered the small amounts they had on ammunitions, medicinal supplies etc.
Sheyan deliberated for a while before purchasing a large bundle of high intensity explosives. These explosives possessed widespread and lethal explosive might, but its damage wasn’t attributed to the user. Hence, beast that were fried by it wouldn’t reward the user with battle contributions nor drop any keys. Thus, the contestants didn’t view it favourably, with presently only few had been purchased.
After shopping, Reef and Mogensha left. Only Sheyan remained. His eyes flickered in tune to the direction lights. This awkward atmosphere persisted several seconds, before Sheyan smiled slightly and added on.
“I have something else that requires your help.”
The RDA company worker was as smooth as a machine.
“Please tell. But I must inform you, your current battle contributions are insufficient for more purchases.”
“That isn’t important.” The necklace across Sheyan’s neck suddenly twinkled with a splendid dark golden radiance. His voice was calm as he proceeded.
“What I want, is completely unrelated to battle contributions! I only hope, the overall in charge RDA member in this valkyrie, to release that important na’vi clan member you guys captured……or…..an extremely exceptionally crucial item to the divine Eywa you acquired on this planet!”
As the words left Sheyan’s mouth, the RDA worker’s face instantly changed; stretching his hands towards his waist. But at this moment, an incomparably muffled smack echoed into the still air; identical to the sound of a massive airplane landing. Within a split second. Sheyan’s welded steel knucklers smashed heavily against his face!
Caressing along his fist, was a ghastly green glow.
At this moment, Sheyan naturally utilized the ability of the ‘Shrivelled Tangerine’, smearing that awful lymphatic fluid onto his weapon; allowing his next three strikes to carry a corrosive elemental damage!!
Besides, after activating the ability ‘Format’ of his dark gold necklace ‘Smith’s Matrix-microchip’, Sheyan’s strength had already inflated to 49 points!!
It was a terrifying 49 points, only 1 point shy of the breakthrough boundary!
(TN refresher on ability: Format an order upon oneself, temporary converting 5 points of physique to 5 points of strength.)
His fist seemed to appear from a void, whistling as it propelled in and directly smashed out crushing damages and a beat back effect!
Blood, rage and violence!
This RDA worker was wearing a circular protective helmet; but with introduction of a crackling fist, a clear dent emerged on the steel helmet. Sizzling corrosive bubbles appeared. The miserable wails of the worker throttled within his throat, as he was struck 2-3 metres away; completely unable to maintain his grip onto his weapon as it flew out, crashing noisily and sliding over the floor. Armour and steel rubbed against the floor, releasing sparks and a piercing screech.
Sheyan advanced with huge strides, sparing no chance as he carried a ruthless viciousness! He silently charged towards the RDA worker, and swung his next punch!
In his desperation, the worker screamed loudly, a mouthful of blood spilled onto the ground along with teeth. During his deathbed struggle, he still managed to dodge forcefully, as Sheyan’s fist pounded against the steel door frame by the side! Sparks scattered along with a piercing screech. Sheyan pinched against the frame! Immediately, a portion of the steel frame was forcibly torn out.
“Do you think you can run?” Sheyan’s mouth curled into a cold sneer. He could already confirm this RDA worker didn’t possess strong prowess, his only formidability laid in his status! As he gazed onto the fleeing figure of the RDA worker, Sheyan plucked out ‘Ambition’ in a flash; a spiralling smoke, a booming echo, and a bullet to the back. The RDA member froze.
When Sheyan neared in, the RDA worker woke up; sadly he woke up to Sheyan’s blunt fist. He could only attempt to block with both arms! In the end, a distinct fracturing crack of both arms resounded. His face flushed with red as he spat out a mouth of fresh blood; his pupils seemingly about to pop out!
Then Sheyan raised his fist again! Aiming towards the RDA worker’s chest as he drilled down!
This fist directly penetrated into his chest, deeply squashing his rib, lungs and heart; before he retracted his hand out. Instantly, a massive bowl sized, deep blood hole appeared on the RDA member’s chest! Pshhh! Shattered eerie bone fragments, innards, blood sprayed out in a downpour.
Tranquility resumed once again.
Like a graveyard.
Sheyan then retracted himself, as he flicked his hands and flung off bits of flesh, innards and blood against the steel wall. The corpse didn’t drop a single key, however, there was an unusual looking silver-white card pasted at his waist. His nightmare imprint announced.
“You discovered a special object: ‘RDA worker identification card’. Do you wish to collect it?”
No doubt, this murder was for this piece of item. Sheyan walked over, using his blood drenched fingers to pick the card. Then, he nodded humbly.
“I see…….so it is like that.”
Although the channel towards the upper floor of the valkyrie was locked, Reef and Mogensha who had left earlier were currently keeping watch at the door. Naturally, they were spying for possible reinforcements to warn Sheyan. At this moment, both of them couldn’t help but recall Sheyan’s earlier words.
“I don’t know if you guys have realized, but it seems like there are many discrepancies and illogical areas that have surfaced after we entered this world.”
“We risk our lives to fight for this RDA company, but the rewards we gain from killing those beasts are battle contributions. From previous experiences, it should’ve been reputation shouldn’t it? This no doubt states that the RDA workers completely doesn’t treat us as equals. Instead, their attitude towards us are like how the Romans treated their gladiator slaves. If we won, they’d throw money at us, if we lost, then we die. From the start, we haven’t earned a single ounce of respect from them!”
“Analyzing from the perspective of the intensity rate of consecutive waves of battle, we can primarily deduce – there is no reason for those beasts to fanatically launch attacks against us for no reason whatsoever. Although the initial two waves of beasts can be explained due to the valkyrie invading their territory, or destroying their nest; while the ones after could be explained by the allure of reeking blood because of our initial slaughters…….”
“But! The most noticeable deviation, is that Sturmbeests are herbivores! Although we can eliminate the possibility of them feasting on flesh if they were famished…….but, just look at the abundant vegetation around us. There must be another reason that incited these enormously powerful herbivores to turn aggressive, risking all with no thoughts of personal safety!”
“According to my understanding and inference; although Pandora is strange, mysterious and oddly, there are only two groups that possess the ability to instigate so many beasts to initiate a charging death wish.”
“The smaller possibility points to the na’vi clan’s extremely extremely powerful Tsahìk*; as for the personal strength of this Tsahìk, it should be even stronger than the movie’s Omaticaya na’vi clan’s Tsahìk! The other and also most possible conjuncture, should be the actual ruler of this planet. Even in the movies, there hadn’t been an appearance of the true body of the divine Eywa!”
(TN:* A Tsahik is the spiritual leader of a na’vi clan)
“I dare not confirm that the RDA company has offended the latter, but there’s one thing I can confirm. There must be something worthy of interest onboard this valkyrie to them! If they cannot acquire it, then the beast horde wouldn’t cease. These insanely barbaric wild beasts would continue flooding in without sparing a single cost! As for us, there is completely no way to contend against this planet. The said mission of 3 days to establish our footing, is just a dead end!”
“To put it clearer, these RDA workers are harbouring a certain hope, and are treating us as cannon fodder to drag time! Once the real beast horde arrives that can threaten their lives, they would try and escape; or surrender, and handover the item the beast seeks.”
“Also, don’t just think that those ‘AMP suits’ can pull off an unstoppable riot. It seems that can display an immense explosive firepower within a short duration, and crush the beasts like dregs. However, I wonder if you guys noticed the mission’s hints beforehand?”
“The details were – ‘When the transport shuttle Valkyrie landed, it had startled several native wild races. Therefore, within a short time, the enemies you will face includes wild beasts and aboriginal inhabitants. Of course…..including your own kind”
“Please note, the term ‘aboriginal inhabitants’. This signifies that once the beast wave turns nastier, the battle may involve the na’vis……these freaks with venomous blue skin, and a bowmanship accuracy of a hundred hits in hundred shots! Even the words provided by the realm indicated ‘your own kind’…….hmph hmph, do you still not understand?”
“So what? You’re harping on those supreme rewards exchangeable with battle contributions?! Actually, those are merely bait strung by the RDA company to entice contestants! According to the incremental intensity and strength of the beast waves; if one doesn’t purchase any battle add-ons, to amass and save up 20,000 battle contributions is simply a minute possibility!!! This undoubtedly allows me to confirm, the first resurrection tool that had been purchased, would most likely be masterminded by the RDA workers; this is all to stimulate and arouse us to engage in spending on it!”
“However, once you purchase a battle add-on, then undoubtedly you will sink into a vicious cycle of repeated spending. Buying the ‘AMP suit’ would mean purchasing its weapons, and would mean purchasing ammunition! Purchasing armour would mean needing constant repairs. Even though with this equipment, one can continue massacring the beasts like chopping firewood. However, once the strength and intensity of the beast hordes increased, it will ultimately lead to further investments in weapons and protection, until the battle concludes! As for these items, the RDA company should’ve been given to us for free, because we are actually using our lives to shelter them. Just 20,000 battle contributions, that resurrection tool displayed in our faces. Yet in actual fact, to most contestants, it will become like a stringed carrot attached to a wearable stick extended from your head. Totally incapable of reaching it forever!”
“Finally, and also what I want to inform you, please scroll through your nightmare imprints again. Carefully examine our mission content – 3 days, protect the core engine of this valkyrie from being destroyed! It is not ‘protect the RDA worker’s lives within the 3 days’, and it is also not ‘preventing the beast from invading the shuttle’! As long as we return the item the beasts wants; would those beasts really want their teeth, claws and blood to be wasted on this giant, unfeeling, icy cold piece of metal? This is the only f* way of accomplishing this mission!”
“…………..”
“…………..”
Upon recalling Sheyan’s words, Reef and Mogensha couldn’t help but sense a cold shudder surge through their backs. At present, they couldn’t help but repeatedly recall the notification of their nightmare imprint – ‘In a short while, you will face wild beasts, aboriginal inhabitants…..of course including your own kind’.
Beforehand, the two viewed ‘your own kind’ as referring to contestants. But now, it seemed like their understanding was a mistake.
Before the first mission concluded; due to the uneven distribution of benefits amongst contestants, mutual conflicts was definitely a possibility. However, it was also a fact that the harsh standards of the enemy was no exaggeration. Under the immense pressure of the boundless beast horde, virtually no one would harbour devious thoughts against each other as of now.
Thus, this mission was hinting at another target; and shockingly, it should be the RDA workers of this shuttle!
At this moment; Sheyan marched over with a menacing countenance, carrying faint blood footprints beneath him, that stretched far into the darkness. Within Sheyan’s hands, was a silver-white card soaked in blood!
Right now, the low-key shell that Sheyan had been wearing the whole time was utterly shattered. Now, the feeling he emitted was that of brutal ferocity and valiantry. Also, a cruel untamed air of displaying his might!
But just when Sheyan had brushed the card against the identity verification slot, his face suddenly changed drastically. He fiercely forced the card into Reef’s hands, and issued a low tone into the party channel.
“Do exactly as I say.”
After speaking, Sheyan then retreated half step back and stood behind Reef, hanging down his brows and retracting his gaze. The shadow managed to cover his face, it was as if his entire aura had strange transformed; now, only his robust body frame and tightly clenched fists could be seen. In a flash, Reef was now the main lead of their party.
Within a short span of 10 seconds, a group of people walked in from the shuttle’s channel pathway.
This group appeared rather exhausted, their bodies were covered in speckles of bloodstains. However, they had an undivided loftiness when they congregated together, it was as if the air was shrinking in retreat to their every step.
An upright lady with long hair fluttering against the wind led the front; though one couldn’t see her features clearly, they could sense a unique aura emanated! Lovely, charming like a blade; Capable, experienced like a blade; Floating like a blade!
Her every advance was as though the clouds stirred, advancing like thunder and moving like the wind! Contestants surrounded and protected around her, seemingly representative of her razor-sharp claws that would claw away any obstructions!
Observing this lady, Sheyan couldn’t help but recall the Metals Professor. A prejudiced, tenacious lady, yet with a tinge of ludicrous stubbornness! During the winged-keys stage of that ‘Metals digestive system’, Sheyan had personally witnessed a beautiful woman reduced to stunning bones in a flash! However, after he had heard of news of the Metals professor possibly reviving, Sheyan could sense a deep profound threat stabbing against his back; like an immense pressure.
To the former Sheyan, the Metals Professor’s formidability degree was even stronger than Zi. Yet now, it seemed like their positions had to be swapped in current regard.
Zi!!
At this very moment, that woman Zi was actually leading the Illume-union’s core members and several ordinary members, as they arrived here!
Obviously, the Illume-union had more people infiltrating this shuttle than Sheyan; hence, to hide away from everyone’s notice, the difficulty of covert infiltration was much larger! Therefore strictly speaking, Zi’s deliberations and judgment was in no way inferior to Sheyan; it was merely that her party’s scale was enormous, and required more time to operate.
However, that time difference was enough to result in her being shy of the first mover’s advantage. Just a tiny step would be enough to determine success or failure in many things. For example, Zi’s party was definitely overwhelmingly superior to Sheyan’s current strength. Yet beneath their overwhelming might and the difference in party scale, they became one step too late.
Facing the hastily arriving Illume-union core members, Reef suddenly stretched a step forward; directly stepping into the middle aisle from the darkness! His step was long, and massively heavy; sending clear shivers across the ground when his solid foot sole trampled onto the steel floor.
At this instant, Reef’s appearance was like an abrupt, resounding mountain smacking into the Illume-union’s face. This mountain was not at all steep, but gave off a majestic sensation of spanning a thousand miles; as though it wouldn’t collapse even at the ends of the world! His abrupt appearance caused the Illume-union to suddenly halt their footsteps, with a sour taste welling in their mouth; as though they just complacently walked into an invisible wall!
“It’s you?” Zi couldn’t contain her surprise. The 3 rhombus glows around her started revolving rapidly, displaying her unstable emotions.
Humbly hanging his head down, Reef suddenly raised his palm. That blood soaked silver-white card shockingly lodged between his fingers.
“I know what you are thinking, Zi! And I know what you seek! It’s too bad you’ve arrived too late, this is the only key that allows entry into the upper floor of this valkyrie! Do you want to try seeing if I would snap this card into two first, or whether you can kill me and seize this card first?”
Archeaphill advanced forward with a huge stride, scoffing disdainfully.
“Reef, since your luck isn’t bad and you managed to sustain your tiny life when your party was obliterated, then you should cherish it and not rush to court death!”
Instead, Reef ignored him, as he continued negotiating with Zi.
“Think very carefully, the upper floor RDA workers can at anytime alter the scope of authority of this identification card, and reduce it to trash. Every delay of a second, is undoubtedly increasing the immensity of risks involved!”
Zi sighed deeply, and very frankly responded.
“What do you want?”
Reef snapped back.
“Obviously to cooperate.”
Zi gently replied.
“Cooperate? Sure! Then hand the card over, or you can just open the door right now.”
Reef stared coldly into Zi’s eyes.
“If you still think making a joke here is fine, then I wouldn’t mind delaying here with you guys as well. My conditions are – Party alliance for 3 days! The alliance scope must include the clause of no mutual harming; the fees will be paid by you, and any loots acquired will be split 50-50 within the alliance!”
Zi remained silent. Instead, Sable stepped forward from the back as he fumed angrily.
“In your dreams!”
But when Sable’s words vanished, Zi very straightforwardly replied.
“Fine! Your new party’s name!?”
Sable was stunned as he looked back and urgently cried out.
“Zi!”
Zi gently shook her head, faintly sighing.
“We were one step too late. Besides, time waits for no man, we don’t have a choice now. I definitely wouldn’t allow emotions to affect my decision, or that mere 20,000 utility points to play with everyone’s lives!”
From the darkness, the observing Sheyan couldn’t help but feel moved by Zi’s decisiveness. Such a woman who conducted her affairs without sloppiness. She may be willing to forgo smaller matters, but would become extremely very blunt and courageous with regards to bigger matters. Such a behavioral style was just like her force controlling energy; sharp and decisive, yet without form as it pressed against one’s body!
Nearly 10 seconds later, Sheyan and Mogensha both received notification from the nightmare imprint.
“Your party has formed a temporary alliance contract (advanced) with the Illume-union (party). Duration of 72 hours; during the phase of this alliance, allied forces are unable to have mutual conflict.”
After the allied contract was formed and officiated by the nightmare realm, everyone let loose a little. Reef gripped that silver-white identification card, as he slid it into the computer slot ahead! Clunk! The card was swallowed in.
Closely following, a spiralling set of steel stairs descended down. Demondream of the Illume-union core then astonishingly transformed into a mist as she sped forward; her speed didn’t seem outstanding, but in reality, she had already floated forth in a flash. She had even stole first place from the nearest advancing Reef.
However, Demondream immediately halted at the stair’s only entrance, because the computer generated voice warned:
「 This is a forbidden zone; if you insist on entering, all your battle contributions will be deducted by the RDA company, and all ship-based weapons will turn hostile. 」
Before reaching her current stage, Demondream had already cleared up all her RDA battle contributions. Instead, the last sentence inevitably caused her to shrink back!
“All ship-based weapons will turn hostile!”
At this moment, Sheyan had already scrambled forward, scoffing disdainfully and confidently into his party channel.
“The valkyrie shuttle is designed for interstellar transportation, and not for combat. Besides, what era is it now, don’t tell me that huge naval ships still fought in close proximity in this era? Even a warship wouldn’t install that many machine weapons internally; perhaps its exterior would be equipped with weapon systems, but internally, there surely wouldn’t be many ship-based weapons. Most crucially, if this is really a forbidden zone, clips and bursts of gunfire would’ve been unloaded already, why would they care to bullshit so much?”
After Sheyan rushed in and occupied first place, Mogensha and Reef immediately followed suit; resulting in the Illume-union falling behind. Although rushing head first boasted of more risk, it also provided greater benefits. After Sheyan and the rest charged up, two RDA workers immediately glanced over, before instantly turning to flee without looking back.
Naturally, the bunch of contestants sprinted in pursuit. At present, the speed dominance of agile close combatants was fully displayed. Within a span of just 50 metres, Sheyan and party were thrown far behind by Demondream and another short-dagger user.
But at this moment, the two fleeing RDA workers suddenly leapt and hid behind a writing desk on their lateral side; before collapsing a row of bookshelf on the way, as books scattered in all directions. 20 metres ahead of them, a metal door suddenly opened, as two black muzzles poked out took aim.
When the muzzles surfaced, an abrupt and unexplainable cold sensation jolted up Sheyan’s spine. He immediately transmitted a warning to the party channel, as the 3 immediately darted towards both lateral sides.
Twin dazzling and captivating rays shot out from the muzzles, one of them directly piercing and whizzing towards Demondream! Then, the two muzzles swiftly retracted behind the door, as if trying to continue hiding in ambush.
As those oddly blue rays whizzed towards her, Demondream suddenly metamorphosed into a regiment of unfathomable violet mist; as though her physical body had been displaced. As the bluish ray whizzed through her, it vanished into incorporeal nothingness. Then Demondream’s body re-congealed, as only her complexion was noticeably slightly pale.
The other bluish ray shot towards the short-dagger user. The contestant immediately blocked with his dagger! Without refracting or ricocheting away, the bluish ray struck against the pointed blade of the dagger. Not even a tremendous boom or explosion happened, as it merely melted over the dagger like snow.
Immediately following, an indistinct faint blue started enveloping the surface of the dagger rapidly, before steadfastly contaminating that contestant’s entire body!
That fellow released a tragic and abrupt howl, as his body sprung up straightly before beginning to inflate fanatically like a ball. Finally, he exploded into a burst of shallow bluish-blood mist! Such a scene was incomparably miserable, brimming with bitter brutality!
As the blood mist dispersed, an upright figure with robes fluttering in the air flashed forward. Her face congealed like frost, as she raised her left arm. Her tenderly fair and thin fingers instantly clenched into a fist.
Following that, indescribable colorless dazzling rays seeped out through the cracks of her fingers. The rays appeared like gravels, or rain, or tears as they gracefully glided towards the ground, rapidly drifted forward upon landing.
Before the sprinkles of rays stopped for a rest, Zi forcefully punched her left fist forward! From afar, behind the veranda, a RDA worker suddenly screamed and surged towards them; his hand still grasping onto a powerful oddly firearm. Beneath, the worker’s legs were shockingly constricted by unbelievable speckles of colourless rays.
Force Convergence-grip!
Undoubtedly, after the RDA worker was pulled in, he was instantly swarmed and thoroughly destroyed.
At this moment, the other RDA worker leapt out, pointing the black muzzle of his ruthless firearm towards Zi. Yet this woman was fully prepared, and pointed out her left arm! Like a thunderbolt strike, the RDA worker turned senseless momentarily, completely unmoving where he stood. One could even see blood spurting out from his eye sockets, nostrils and mouth, drenching his entire glass mask. This fellow had already calculated his actions before leaping out, but was ultimately finished off without any conclusion!
Previously, Sheyan was also the fortunate receiver of her ‘Force Needle-explosion’; at present, he could tell she casted it on this unlucky brat. Seizing the opportunity of that RDA worker’s lifelessness, Demondream wafted forward in a myriad of incorporeal mist ahead of Zi. The entire mist wafting moment seemed long, but also seemed short; but when she reappeared in her solid form, the RDA worker was now covered with a gruesome outpour of blood, as he collapsed sluggishly.
Naturally, Zi who had executed two formidable abilities felt rather exhausted; with tiny footsteps, she had once again returned to the surroundment and protection of her fellow contestants. Her long gown danced around her, blossoming like a flower; indifferent and unhurried while she subdued her foes. Her graceful bearing was calm, a beautiful tranquility; like the dying leaves of summer paving the way for autumn. It was indeed an unforgettable impression to others.
After this sudden ambush, everyone didn’t dare to be careless anymore, thus allowing Archeaphill and Reef to lead the way. As they reached a cornering bend at the end, a clamorous collision of metals reverberated from both sides. Then a fully armed RDA sturdy worker charged out shockingly, his arms supporting a peculiar circular firearm; black deep barrels pointing over as he marched in with large steps, pressing the trigger with great strength!
Countless blazing-red tongues spat out from the muzzle, pummeling against Archeaphill’s greatshield. Dang! Dang! Dang! Dang! Chaotic sounds emerged, along with random splashes of innumerable sparks; painting a magnificently gorgeous scene filled with deathly maliciousness!
Archeaphill had experienced a hundred battles, and he could tell the RDA worker ahead didn’t possess great strength; this opening was merely opportunistic timing as well as terrain superiority. Currently, Archeaphill retained many various methods to counterattack. He breathed in deeply, but became fiercely stunned to realize a searing pain throbbing at his chest. Hiis heart welled with shock, because he had instead been struck by a bullet that had penetrated through his greatshield!
That gun possessed such penetrative ability!
Fortunately at this time, the contestants around him had begun retaliating. Mogensha and another two long range combatants simultaneously acted, as blazing hot bullets swivelled towards the fully armed RDA worker. Although he was fully clad in solid armour, incessant bullet collisions of “Dang Dang Dang!” could be heard. His advancement had been utterly stalled.
Overwhelmed by a bombardment of firepower, small cracks split surfaced over the RDA worker’s armoured knee. In a flash, 7-8 bullets pierced then into his left knee cap! Even though his fleshy defence wasn’t low, it wasn’t enough to withstand consecutive gunshots. Roaring agonizingly, blood and flesh sprayed into the air, as his left leg was forcefully decimated. Following that, his chest and abdomen received consecutive gunshots, blood gushed out like a fountain as he was swiftly dispatched.
After slaying several RDA workers, it was clear their relationship with this powerful large company had deteriorated to foes. These few enemies dropped key loots; the majority were white grade and light blue grade. Apart from a light blue grade armour, the rest were random dregs; their only worth was to be sold.
When the group rushed into the core control room of the valkyrie, they discovered that the original residents here had already fled cleanly; only leaving a complete mess of scattered files and documents. Suddenly, a whistling scream shook the space, Mogensha scrambled forward to observe through the cockpit window; where he immediately witnessed a small lifeboat (shuttle) spitting out faint bluish embers, as it sped into the sky.
“F****! They’ve escaped!”
Sable fumed furiously! Instead, Sheyan gently shook his head and voiced out.
“If those bastards wanted to run, they would’ve done so earlier already; why would they entice us to drag for time here and wait for reinforcements? That was probably a desperate contingency that they had no choice to. Which means, we can confirm that what we seek is still on this shuttle.”
“Moreover.” Sheyan paused briefly, cooly continuing. “They won’t be able to escape. Do you really believe this steel monster of a valkyrie crashed due to machinery malfunction? Furthermore, you can see the dense mass of frightening Mountain Banshees covering the skies.”
Not even a minute after Sheyan spoke, someone at the forefront of the window immediately yelled out.
“Look! They are under attack!”
10 seconds later, a thunderous explosion boomed out. The explosions didn’t cease; probably the shuttle’s random parts suffering consecutive explosions as well.
The bunch of contestants glanced at Sheyan unilaterally. Instead, Zi faintly snubbed him, her impression of him lowering by half.
This was because Zi already knew the RDA workers couldn’t escape. However, for such matters with a fixed outcome no matter if it was said or not, a truly intelligent person would comprehend the logic of trampling underneath the obscure shadows of the light; definitely not garnering unnecessary attention or vigilance. What she didn’t notice was that after Sheyan observed her expression, his vision flickered slightly.
Yuan Zhan of the Illume-union appeared to be an IT computer expert, he stepped forward as he strolled towards the control desk upfront, and started operating it; his fingers hammering against the keyboard, producing loud clicking sounds. After a brief pause, his low voice spilled out.
“It’s here!”
After speaking, he pulled down a lever by the side.
Billowing gas sprayed out, as gusts of white fog sprayed out from the exterior of the valkyrie; a surplus storage compartment. Heavy metallic creaking proceeded closely.
An enormous storage compartment was unlatched outside, as it slid down from an inclined plane weightily. The storage compartment was at least a dozen metres long, 3 metres broad and seemed to be no less than 20 tons in weight. Such a transported good of immense scale was indeed something a tiny lifeboat could not carry.
Meanwhile on the outskirts, every wild beasts suddenly started howling fanatically. Abandoning their opponents on hand, they sprinted like maniacs towards that storage compartment. At this moment, Sheyan and his trio were shocked to discover, the amount of tier-3 legendary creatures had currently amounted to more than 20. There was even a tier-4 Thanator surfacing as their beastly leader!!
Seeing the current state now, Sheyan’s deductions were indeed correct. The instigating factor for the beast horde, wasn’t their daily lives being disrupted or the allure of blood and food! It was RDA workers stirring the wrath of the ruler of this planet!
White fog pervaded into the air; that steel container was swiftly struck opened, and finally exposed the items stored within……..
Within the steel container was a shocking 10 metre long giant ice block; sparkling and translucent, the ice displayed its forbidden contents extravagantly. Trapped inside was something astonishingly shaped like tree roots, twisted and intertwined, with many strands of white lingering around it. It had a length of at least 7-8 metres. The item revealed a meaty texture, while still exuberating a flavour of flora within. Thus, it was simply too difficult to determine its origins at this moment.
Upon witnessing such an event, numerous contestants groaned depressedly, and staggered several steps back, with some having blood oozing from their nose and mouth. Zi in particular suffered the strongest reaction. She straightforwardly shut her eyes, and sat down exhaustively like a withered flower, as though she had just received a severe blow.
Sheyan instantly realized that she wasn’t the only exception, and spirit/intelligence based contestants were all affected. As for himself, one with poor spirit and pitiful intelligence, utterly devoid of elemental energy or spiritual force; he widened his eyes as he swept his gaze around, having not the slightest trifling sensation affecting him. It was clear, that object must’ve emitted violent spirit ripples. Thus, the stronger one’s spirit or intelligence, the more severe one was affected.
Under the insatiable pressure of countless wild beasts, the ice block was rapidly chiselled away, and ultimately melted to the ground completely. As for that ‘tree-roots’ object, once it had interacted with the ground, massive roots sprouted from it and drilled deep into the ground. Instantly, numerous visibly thin white threads seemingly released and extended out in all directions, resulting in the ‘tree-roots’ object decomposing with unbelievable pace. Through the naked eye, one could vividly see its size dissolving into thin air; and within lesser than short 3 minutes, it utterly decomposed.
“That’s…….! The movie mentioned this before, that various kinds of mystical neural links exists between Pandora’s flora, trees and the ground! Every tree possesses millions of links, like a computer network or the human’s nervous system; connecting the entire planet into one body of neural network! Those fine spirit threads, are like the mediums of connection between organisms.” Sheyan’s mind immediately flashed with enlightenment.
“Sure enough, my guess was correct! The group of RDA workers definitely had acquired something viewed with extreme significance by the mesmerizing divine Eywa of Pandora! Observing how that object dissolved, it was probably an important nourishment for the divine Eywa. Perhaps something like salt to the humans; just requiring a minute consumption daily, but definitely still essential!”
“Ho, from what I’ve observed today, then I can reach the next deduction that……the divine Eywa’s main body, may perhaps resemble that of the inherent characteristics of fungus on earth.”
Since the root cause of the beast horde crisis had been thoroughly rooted out, the waves of feverish and agitated beasts started dispersing. Another thought formed within Sheyan’s heart, yet he wasn’t in a hurry to say it. Instead, he quickly spoke to Yuan Zhan.
“I have good news, the communication system of the valkyrie is ruined, probably destroyed during its violent crash landing. The latest issued message would only probably be the final emergency warning to the mother warship in space before crashing, or to Hell’s gate* base. In other words, they have no further means of external contact. Which goes to say that whatever we have done here, it is completely oblivious to the mother warship. Delving deeper, our current hostility with the RDA company will gradually subside within 24 hours, and return back to ‘amicable’.”
(TN:* Hell’s gate is the main centre for all human colonial activities on Pandora, and contains the moon’s only spaceport)
Hush! The pale faced Zi gently exhaled, and she gave off her orders.
“According to the information I’ve gathered, the engine we have to guard entailed by the mission isn’t huge. It is right here, above this core control room. Thus, 3 of us will keep guard over there….although those beasts have withdrawn, it doesn’t mean that the engine is fully invulnerable. From now on till mission completion, we will rotate in 3 hour shifts……..Reef, since we are already allied, your people must participate.”
Reef lightly replied.
“Sure, of course.”
Zi coughed gently for a while, before continuing.
“Next, Archeaphill, Yuan Zhan and Reef please stay behind. Since we are in collaboration now, and we possess two top-notch prestigious MT at the present stage, let’s discuss how we can maximize our present interests. The rest, you are free to roam about.”
Upon hearing that, Sheyan and Mogensha started heading towards the bottom deck of the shuttle, appearing as if they wanted to return to the battlefield and clear it for loots. However, once they left the surveillance of the Illume-union personnels, Sheyan took a sudden detour and headed towards the pathway channel towards the shuttle’s cabins. Mogensha curiously asked.
“Why are we heading there for?”
Sheyan whispered sneakily.
“Based on my inference, there should be something else waiting for us to uncover.”
Mogensha shook his head.
“Boss, you’re underestimating the Illume-union. I believe that when we were busy with other stuffs, they’ve already cleaned up the entire place like a dog licking its bone! Moreover, those RDA deserters wouldn’t possibly leave behind any valuable item. Damned! I suddenly have a brilliant idea, we should head over and search the crash site of those bastards.”
Sheyan smiled humbly.
“You’re wrong. There’s another place they haven’t entered, and there should be something valuable there.”
As he spoke, that silver-white metallic identification card shimmered brilliantly within his fingers.
Within the narrow steel space, a simple decorated cabinet stood silently. It was a monotonous sky blue cabinet, standing atop a greyish patterned fur rug. Such a scenery greeted Sheyan and Mogensha’s view.
Behind them, a metallic sliding door had been opened, with a silver-white card inserted within the card slot.
Mogensha directly used the nuzzle of his golden AK to wrench open a armoire by the side. His eyes suddenly glittered.
SN-9 ‘WASP’ Revolver. (The same type of revolver utilized by Colonel Miles Quaritch in the movies)
Grade: Black
This weapon is infusible with a horcrux
State: Mildly damaged.
Equipment position: Single-handed
Length: 228 cm
Weight: 11kg
Pre-installed component: Torchlight and Infrared remote sensor (Dismountable). Firearm effective range extended to 300 metres.
Attack power: 60-80
Details: Perceptive sense +2 / Agility +5
Details: Strength -2 / Physique -1 / Charm -3 / Intelligence -1
Magazine capacity: x4 (Mildly damaged state: Originally x8)
Shooting speed: 0.3 seconds/ round.
Equipment requirement: Agility 30 points, Perceptive sense 25 points, ‘Basic Long range combat’ lvl 5.
Weapon special ability: Wasp’ Stinger – When attacking, 33% chance of neglecting 50% of defence, and deal penetrative damages*. Its effect holds precedence.
(TN: *Penetrative damages is like crushing damages, a special effect)
This revolver should’ve previously been carelessly dumped into the cabinet after its original owner had discovered a slight malfunction; intending to repair it after finishing whatever work he had on hand. Who knew, his work would last forever!
No doubt, this revolver became Mogensha’s possession. This weapon wasn’t powerful because of other reasons but solely its pre-installed component! For a sniper, that torchlight and infrared remote sensor was of little value; but to a rifleman, this undoubtedly enhanced one’s effective shooting range by several folds!
Moreover, that precedence penetrative effect of 33% was a rather high probability, and further contained a 50% of defence negating property. Complimenting this weapon with Mogensha’s personal abilities, though it was just a revolver, the resultant threatening might was definitely not inferior to any small scale sniper rifle.
After reaping this benefit, Mogensha continued rummaging through; although he found nothing else, he was already fully satisfied. Gazing at the daydreaming Sheyan standing in front of a desk, he slapped his shoulder.
“Boss, it’s not bad already. Even though this revolver is black grade, it is definitely better than some silver storyline grade equipments! Even if we can’t find anything else, it’s not bad already.”
Sheyan’s lips curled into an enigmatic smile.
“You’re wrong, our biggest harvest is this.”
Mogensha suspiciously glanced down towards Sheyan’s fingers. Within it, was a shocking sky-blue padlocked diary, written with careless handwriting. Sheyan was currently browsing through its contents.
Today. January, day 3. Oh, wrong, day 2. God bless me, I keep forgetting this damned devilish planet has 25 hours in a day.
We just received orders to explore area ‘VII’ today. I suspect those giant blue-skinned monkeys are watching us.
God bless us. I heard those Na’vis are segregated into civilized clans and uncivilized aborigines. Simply speaking, you can associate those uncivilized aborigines with that man-eating tribe of humans in New Guinea. In their eyes, humans and direhorses are the same, they are both categorized as food.
Fortunately, the Na’vis near Hell’s Gate are all civilized clans. They are willing to interact harmoniously with the humans. This was one of the main reason Hell’s Gate was able to be established.
“…………..”
………….
Day 11, January. Flood! Oh my, oh my! Why is there a flood occurring in this season, if i didn’t climb up a fern, I would’ve probably been swept away by the muddy river. Something happened with Bambo’s oxygen mask inside the flood. I personally witnessed his complexion turning into the color of a boiled tomato…….
”
Alright, alright. I know Mr Smith would express his apology and just tell us that this was just an accident, outside of their expectations. But the frequency of such accident is really too high!