《Worldwide Awakening: I Got Stronger If I Make Out With A Hot Girl》


 Chapter 1

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    [Sticky Halo (Active): Provides attribute buffs when teaming up with a member of the opposite sex. The strength of the buff is determined by the distance between teammates, with closer proximity resulting in a stronger effect. The maximum range for the buff is 10 meters.]


    [Sticky Halo (Passive 1): There is a slight chance of copying a teammate¡¯s talent if working together for an extended period.]


    [Sticky Halo (Passive 2): After engaging in intimate contact with a teammate of the opposite sex, the distance restriction is lifted for two hours, and varying buffs are granted depending on the level of intimacy.]


    Bai Han¡¯s face lit up with curiosity as he read over his newly awakened talent. As a transmigrator who had been transported to a world modeled after a game, he was now surrounded by a realm rife with monsters, perils, and opportunities.


    In this world, people reached professional maturity at the age of 18 and were bestowed with talents that corresponded with their chosen professions. Although there were many different types of occupations available, they could generally be categorized as either combat, support, or lifestyle-oriented.


    Bai Han had become a priest during his awakening ceremony, a support-based profession. While support classes lacked significant combat power, they were highly sought after, as a strong support class could effectively double the combat power of an entire team.


    As Bai Han examined his newly acquired talent, a sense of unease crept over him. Why was it a requirement that only opposite-sex teammates could benefit from his talent? And the notion of ¡°intimate contact¡± made him feel even more uneasy.


    ¡°Student, if you¡¯re done here, you can form a team and prepare for the next Initial Mystic Realm!¡± the staff member conducting the awakening ceremony interrupted his thoughts.


    As Bai Han remained stunned, the staff member conducting the awakening ceremony had to remind him to form a team for the next challenge in the Initial Mystic Realm. This realm was like a dungeon for novices, and all awakeners could participate. It served as both a beginner¡¯s benefit and an assessment. The better one performed in the Initial Mystic Realm, the higher their rank would be, and the more likely they would catch the attention of major factions.


    Bai Han descended from the stage and was immediately approached by someone. ¡°Hey, you switched to a support class, right? Are you a control or recovery class? Join our party! We¡¯ve already got two warriors and an assassin with guaranteed damage output!¡±


    Classes were categorized into life, support, and combat, with more detailed subcategories within those groups. Bai Han assessed the dark-faced, 1.9 meters tall young man with ripped muscles that made one¡¯s heart jump before him. After thinking for a moment, he said, ¡°I¡¯m a buff-type Priest.¡±


    The dark-faced young man¡¯s eyes brightened, and he eagerly grabbed Bai Han¡¯s hand. ¡°Please join our team!¡± he said.


    Support classes were highly sought after, especially buff-type support classes, as they could increase the team¡¯s damage output more immediately than control or recovery classes.


    ¡°Actually, the elders in my family have already prepared a full set of Bronze-grade equipment for me. If you join our team, you¡¯ll definitely be among the best in the Initial Mystic Realm this time!¡± he added, trying to entice Bai Han.


    A full set of Bronze-grade equipment, even if it was Level 0 novice equipment, was still a considerable amount of money. A normal person would have been tempted, but Bai Han felt helpless.


    ¡°How many girls are there in your team?¡±


    The black-faced tall man was slightly stunned when Bai Han asked how many girls were in his team. He thought that Bai Han was meticulous when choosing a team, as he was concerned about the configuration of the rest of the team as well.


    ¡°Uh ¡­ No, they¡¯re all men!¡± he finally answered.


    Bai Han could only shake his head when he heard this. ¡°Then I¡¯m sorry. I only team up with females!¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, he could clearly sense the dark-faced tall man¡¯s gaze on him had changed. It was a kind of disdain that said he did not expect him to be such a person, making Bai Han feel very helpless. He couldn¡¯t even explain himself. ¡°I can¡¯t help it that my talent strictly limits me to forming a team with the opposite sex.¡± he thought.


    Ignoring the other party¡¯s gaze, Bai Han immediately shouted around, ¡°I¡¯m looking for a team who¡¯s looking for a buff-type support profession. It comes with a buff halo. As long as you get close to me, all your attributes will be increased. I only want to team up with women. Is there a team with many women would who need a profession like mine?¡±


    ¡°Are there any ladies who want to form a team? Super buff talent, first come, first served! ¡±


    ¡°I only want women, I only want women!¡±


    When Bai Han announced that he was a support class that provided buffs, many people who had already completed their awakening and were looking for teammates came over to watch. However, they immediately dispersed when he shamelessly shouted that he would only team up with women.


    There were quite a few female combat professionals and even quite a few all-female teams. However, the problem was that when one person took the initiative to request to go to a team with only women, it was difficult not to let others think that there was something wrong with him They also looked at Bai Han with disdain, just like the dark-faced young man at the beginning. Of course, other than disdain, there were also envious looks.


    It was unknown if they were envious of Bai Han¡¯s thick skin, to actually shout out the thoughts that they could only hide in their hearts in public. However, they did not know that Bai Han himself was forced to do so!


    After shouting for a long time, no one was interested. Just as Bai Han was feeling a little disheartened, a crisp voice sounded behind him.


    ¡°Are you a pervert?¡±


    Bai Han was instantly enraged when he heard this. How could someone slander his innocence? He turned around and glared angrily, only to see a young and beautiful girl standing ten meters away from him.


    Despite her appearance, Bai Han didn¡¯t appreciate being insulted. He knew he was easily misunderstood, but he couldn¡¯t just let her call him a pervert without defending himself. ¡°I¡¯m not!¡± he said sternly.


    However, the expression on the girl¡¯s face showed that she didn¡¯t believe him. ¡°Believe it or not, my talent can only enhance the opposite sex, but I¡¯m really not a pervert!¡± he explained, feeling frustrated that he had to keep defending himself. He had already explained this many times, but it seemed that no one wanted to believe him.


    Bai Han thought that his efforts were in vain, but to his surprise, the girl hesitated for a moment before saying, ¡°I¡¯ll team up with you!¡±


    Bai Han¡¯s eyes widened in excitement, but his enthusiasm was dampened when the girl added, ¡°It¡¯s just that my class is a Mage, and my initial talent is passive¡­¡±


    Now he understood why she was willing to team up with him.


    Mages were definitely one of the strongest classes in the later stages of the game. After all, be it damage or range, they would definitely be judged.


    However, the problem was that the Mage class was very weak in the early stages. After all, the Mage class definitely relied on skills to deal damage. However, everyone was at level 0 now, so their damage output basically depended on normal attacks.


    Unless they were among those nurtured by large families and factions, ordinary people wouldn¡¯t have access to those expensive skill scrolls to enhance their skills.


    However, to Bai Han, this wasn¡¯t important. As long as someone was willing to team up with him, he would take the opportunity. He was determined to form a team and test the effectiveness of his talent.

 Chapter 2

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    Bai Han quickly sent a party request to the Mage girl, Lin Yuwei, who was standing in front of him. To his delight, the female authentication was successful and his talent immediately kicked in.


    [You have formed a temporary party with Lin Yuwei. Female authentication successful. Current enhancement effect: All attributes increased by 20%!]


    ¡°Hmm? All my attributes have increased by 20%. Is this your awakened talent? You¡¯ve just changed your class and you already have such a powerful talent. You¡¯re quite lucky!¡± Lin


    Yuwei was pleasantly surprised. Buff support classes were very rare, not to mention that they could directly increase all attributes by 20%. Initially, she did not have much hope for this assessment, but now, it seemed that she could really give it a try.


    Unexpectedly, Bai Han only frowned and said, ¡°Try getting closer to me!¡±


    Lin Yuwei hesitated for a moment. From the beginning, she had maintained a distance of ten meters from Bai Han, mainly because she felt that it was too strange for him to only ask for female teammates. But now, since the two of them had already formed a team, she had to show some goodwill and trust.


    Thinking of this, Lin Yuwei walked over. However, the two of them were still strangers, so she stopped one meter away from Bai Han.


    This was a typical social distance, but as Lin Yuwei approached, she realized that the teammate she had misjudged as a pervert was surprisingly handsome.


    ¡°You¡­¡± she began to say, but was cut off by Bai Han. ¡°Check your attribute panel again!¡±


    Lin Yuwei didn¡¯t understand what he meant, but she followed his instruction. When she looked at her attribute panel, she was stunned, her jaw dropping in shock and disbelief. All her attributes had nearly doubled!


    At the same time, Bai Han opened his attribute panel.


    [Name: Bai Han]


    [Class: Priest]


    [Level: 0 (0/100)]


    [Constitution: 5 (+9)]


    [Spirit: 10 (+18)]


    [Strength: 5 (+9)]


    [Intelligence: 10 (+18)]


    [Agility: 3 (+5)]


    [Health Points: 500 (+900)]


    [Mana Points: 1000 (+1800)]


    Looking at his attribute panel, Bai Han was shocked by the significant increase in all his attributes. Although he had suspected that his talent had an outrageous restriction, he didn¡¯t expect the effect to be so obvious. Doubling all attributes was no small feat.


    After a Class Advancement Awakening, one¡¯s physical fitness was automatically digitized, and the emphasis of the five basic attributes varied depending on the class. As a priest, Bai Han had low Constitution, Strength, and Agility, while his Spirit and Intelligence were high. On the other hand, a Level 0 Warrior had a high probability of having 10 or more points in Strength and Constitution.


    Thanks to the buff, Bai Han¡¯s original five points of Strength had jumped to 14 points. Moreover, his Spirit and Intelligence had reached nearly 30 points, which was incredible!


    A Level 0 Priest¡¯s Constitution and Strength were higher than those of a Combat Class of the same level, while his Spirit and Intelligence were comparable to a Level 5 Mage Class. This was quite unreasonable, yet it was happening right before his eyes.


    Bai Han was overwhelmed with excitement. He had despised his talent which restricted him to team up with only the opposite sex. But now, he could proudly proclaim the opposite.


    ¡°Your talent¡­Your talent is too strong!¡± exclaimed Lin Yuwei, after being stunned for a while. Her face had turned slightly red, and her eyes were sparkling with excitement.


    ¡°The enhancement hasn¡¯t reached its limit yet,¡± Bai Han said, grinning. ¡°Perhaps we can push it a little further.¡±


    As Bai Han watched, Lin Yuwei walked towards him with excitement in her eyes, apparently guessing that the buff had something to do with their proximity. However, she misjudged the distance and ended up colliding into his arms.


    Bai Han, being taller, instinctively looked down at her, and she blushed in response. She quickly averted her gaze, too shy to look back up at him. Despite the awkwardness, Bai Han couldn¡¯t help but notice the pleasant scent emanating from her body at such close proximity.


    Bai Han¡¯s excitement turned into hesitation as he considered his proximity to Lin Yuwei. He didn¡¯t want to come across as inappropriate or make her feel uncomfortable. However, before he could take a step back, he felt her take hold of his arm.


    ¡°Don¡¯t misunderstand. Let¡¯s take a look at the attributes first!¡± Lin Yuwei¡¯s voice was quiet but resolute, and Bai Han was relieved to see that she didn¡¯t seem bothered by their closeness.


    With a renewed sense of excitement, they leaned in together to check their attribute panel.


    As expected, when they reached the limit distance, the buff enhancement doubled. Their Level 0 attributes were already comparable to the other people¡¯s Level 5 stats. However, Lin Yuwei quickly recovered from her surprise and shyness and said, ¡°But if we keep this distance, we won¡¯t be able to fight normally!¡±


    Bai Han thought of the passive effect of his talent. After thinking about it, he said in embarrassment, ¡°Actually, there¡¯s a solution. The description of my talent says that if you have close contact with your teammates, the distance restriction will be lifted, and the buff effect will last for two hours. There¡¯s also an additional buff.¡±


    ¡°Intimate contact¡­¡± Lin Yuwei mumbled and took a step back. The way she looked at Bai Han became strange again.


    ¡°Your talent is too indecent. Are you trying to take advantage of me?¡± Bai Han was also very helpless. He was clearly a gentleman, so why was he always treated as a pervert?


    ¡°It¡¯s up to you whether you believe it or not. Anyway, it¡¯s just a novice assessment. If it¡¯s just for a passable result, there¡¯s no need to maintain the maximum distance. Just keep a distance of one or two meters!¡±


    Before Lin Yuwei could say anything, a strange female voice interrupted them. ¡°Isn¡¯t this Xiaowei? Why, you¡¯ve finally found a teammate? Haha, Xiaowei, you need to be more discerning. You can¡¯t find teammates who are too weak, otherwise¡­¡±


    Bai Han turned to look in the direction of the voice and saw a young girl with an aggressive aura walking over. She was just as attractive as Lin Yuwei.


    Following behind the girl were a man and a woman. The man wore bright silver scale armor and carried a huge sword that emitted golden light.


    ¡®He has a full set of Silver-grade defensive equipment and a Gold-grade weapon!¡¯ Bai Han exclaimed inwardly, impressed.


    Bai Han¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. That set of defensive equipment could easily cost several thousand gold coins in the market, and the Gold-grade weapon had no restrictions, making it practically priceless.


    The surrounding newcomers looked on with envy and jealousy. They had just awakened and had not yet entered the secret realm, and to have such equipment at level 0 meant that their family background was extraordinary. It was even possible that they had prepared future skill scrolls.


    However, Bai Han quickly averted his gaze from the impressive equipment and turned to look at Lin Yuwei. It seemed that these people were after her.

 Chapter 3

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Chen Han!¡± Lin Yuwei called out to the aggressive girl in front of her, her tone cold and stern. ¡°I don¡¯t think it has anything to do with you.¡±


    Chen Han chuckled and cast a mocking glance at Bai Han before turning her attention back to Lin Yuwei. ¡°I¡¯m just concerned about you,¡± she said, her voice dripping with insincerity. ¡°I heard that you¡¯ve awakened your mage profession and guessed that finding a team wouldn¡¯t be easy for you. I¡¯m afraid this assessment won¡¯t be easy.¡±


    She paused for effect, then continued with a sneer. ¡°Why don¡¯t you beg me? I¡¯m destined to break the record for clearing the mystic realm this time. If you beg me, maybe I can let you have a share of the reward?¡±


    Bai Han suddenly understood why this group was willing to spend so much money on Level 0 equipment. They were after the clearing record. Breaking the record would earn them double rewards from the system and the country, a prize that even a rank-five big shot would be envious of.


    Not knowing the nature of the relationship between Lin Yuwei and Chen Han, Bai Han kept his focus on Lin Yuwei as she trembled with anger at Chen Han¡¯s mocking words.


    Just as Lin Yuwei was about to explode, she suddenly felt someone pressing down on her shoulder. She turned around in surprise and saw Bai Han walking behind her and smiling at her. For some reason, Lin Yuwei felt much more at ease.


    That¡¯s right, why would she care about Chen Han¡¯s mockery? It¡¯s not like she really didn¡¯t have a teammate and party now.


    Moreover ¡­


    Lin Yuwei couldn¡¯t think of any teammate who could be better than Bai Han, who had such ridiculous buffs!


    Thinking of this, Lin Yuwei suddenly stopped being angry. Her expression became very calm as she looked at Chen Han and said indifferently, ¡°No need. Thank you for your concern. I already have a teammate!¡±


    Chen Han¡¯s expression changed. She glanced at Bai Han again, snorted coldly, and turned to leave.


    Bai Han originally thought that it was just a small interlude and that it should not have much to do with him. However, when Chen Han¡¯s fully equipped teammate passed by him, he suddenly smiled smugly and deliberately fiddled with the greatsword on his back, making a teasing expression at Lin Yuwei and mouthing to Bai Han, ¡°Loser!¡± before leaving.


    Bai Han was taken aback and then became angry. What did he do to deserve this mockery? He didn¡¯t even know those people. It was unfair and unreasonable.


    Bai Han was fuming with anger after being mocked by Chen Han¡¯s teammate. Even though he had a good temper, he couldn¡¯t help feeling upset that someone would attack him for no reason.


    As they walked, Lin Yuwei suddenly spoke up, ¡°Do you want to try and break the record?¡± Bai Han was taken aback by her sudden question and replied, ¡°Although my buff is powerful, it might still be challenging for us to break the record as a duo.¡±


    Before Bai Han could finish his sentence, Lin Yuwei surprised him by leaning in and planting a light kiss on his lips.


    Stunned, Bai Han froze for a moment as Lin Yuwei teased him, ¡°Is this considered intimate contact? Quick, see if your talent has been triggered.¡±


    Her nonchalant expression couldn¡¯t hide the blush on her cheeks as she waited for his reaction. Bai Han was left speechless, but his face revealed a hint of surprise and confusion.


    [Intimate Contact authentication successful, distance restriction of buff removed. Duration:120 minutes]


    [Based on the degree of intimacy, special buff will be obtained: All attributes increased by 5 points, Luck increased by 10 points, Duration:120 minutes]


    The system notification popped up once more. Lin Yuwei¡¯s eyes widened as she gazed at the new buff displayed on her status bar, and she was so thrilled that she almost fainted.


    While five points of Basic Attributes were decent, they paled in comparison to the double increase. The former was a fixed increment, while the latter was a percentage-based boost, making it undeniably more potent.


    However, the most astonishing thing was that her Luck value had increased by 10 points!


    Luck value was a concealed attribute, with everyone¡¯s basic luck value set at one point, regardless of their profession.


    Furthermore, luck value could not be augmented by leveling up. Thus, obtaining the Luck value attribute was exceedingly difficult, and most people would remain stuck at their initial one point throughout their entire lives.


    Luck was a crucial attribute in any game, as it affected the drop rate significantly.


    With an increase of ten points in luck value, the drop rate would increase by ten times!


    The special BUFF effect that Lin Yuwei and Bai Han received after their intimate contact left them both stunned, but it also washed away any awkwardness they had felt before.


    They exchanged a glance and understood that they had hit the jackpot. Bai Han thought he had struck it rich, while Lin Yuwei realized that she could not let him escape.


    As soon as the thought crossed Lin Yuwei¡¯s mind, her face turned bright red. Bai Han, however, didn¡¯t have the luxury of time to consider the implications of her sudden shyness.


    The Initial Mystic Realm was about to open, and all players who had completed their Class Advancement and Awakening were rushing towards the entrance.


    Without a word, Bai Han grabbed Lin Yuwei¡¯s hand and hurried towards the Mystic Realm gate. A large crowd of players had already gathered outside the entrance, eager to explore the secrets within.


    Being a public area, all the players present would enter the same place. The Mystic Realm had been accessible for many years, and all the strategies and information were readily available to the public. It was rumored that the Mystic Realm was a magical forest filled with demonized wild animals. The level 5 demonized wolf king had been announced as the BOSS to be defeated.


    Upon entering the Mystic Realm, the aim was to quickly level up and find a way to slay the Wolf King as part of the assessment. Once the BOSS was defeated, players could either opt to clear the level or be ranked based on the number of monsters killed and the points acquired. In such a public realm, only the first player to clear it would receive the system reward, and the subsequent rewards would only come from refreshing or beating the clearing record.


    At present, the players had queued up in an orderly fashion to obtain their beginner¡¯s equipment, which was a White-grade weapon that was not even Iron-grade. This was a newbie benefit from the country, and better equipment could only be obtained by defeating bosses and other monsters within the Mystic Realm.


    While bosses in the initial secret realm were the only ones that dropped Bronze and Silver-grade equipment, there was still a possibility of small and elite monsters dropping Iron-grade equipment.


    Bai Han and Lin Yuwei received their novice weapons and waited for their turn to enter the Mystic Realm, but to their surprise, they encountered Chen Han¡¯s team, again!

 Chapter 4

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Hah, what¡¯s wrong? You only got a team of two? Xiaowei, don¡¯t die in the mystic realm with a man you don¡¯t know!¡± Chen Han sneered when she saw Bai Han and Lin Yuwei.


    However, this time, Bai Han stood up without waiting for Lin Yuwei to speak. He took the initiative to address Chen Han and her teammate who had ridiculed him for no reason, saying, ¡°Why is there always a barking dog around?¡±


    Chen Han was stunned. She obviously didn¡¯t expect Bai Han to dare to talk back. Anger flashed in her eyes, but she quickly put on a delicate appearance and turned to the man behind her, holding his hand. ¡°Brother Qiang, someone is scolding me!¡± she exclaimed.


    Zhou Qiang, Chen Han¡¯s teammate, who was wearing a full set of silver armor and a gold-grade weapon, immediately shot her a lecherous look. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯m here. Once we enter the Mystic Realm, I¡¯ll teach them a lesson!¡± he boasted.


    Chen Han¡¯s expression froze as she realized that there were at least two to three hundred people waiting to enter the Mystic Realm. She and Zhou Qiang were not very familiar with each other, and along with another teammate, they were just a temporary team.


    The two girls coveted Zhou Qiang¡¯s equipment and wanted to take a gamble to break the record for a reward. As for what Zhou Qiang was after, it was needless to say.


    Bai Han sneered inwardly and decided not to argue with them anymore. He pulled Lin Yuwei to the other side.


    ¡°Thank you!¡±


    Lin Yuwei spoke out of the blue, prompting Bai Han to wave his hand nonchalantly. He had no obligation to stand up for her. It just so happened that he disliked Chen Han and Zhou Qiang.


    ¡°What¡¯s the deal between you and that woman?¡± Bai Han asked curiously, but Lin Yuwei seemed embarrassed by the question. With a shrug, he added, ¡°Just asking. If you don¡¯t want to talk about it, forget I said anything.¡±


    The door to the Mystic Plane opened as players rushed inside. Time was of the essence, as getting a head start could make a difference in finding the best spots to farm monsters. Despite this, Bai Han and Lin Yuwei took their time and were nearly the last to enter the Initial Mystic Realm.


    The moment Bai Han stepped in, he felt a brief moment of weightlessness before the surroundings changed completely. They were now in the Demonized Forest, a vast expanse of trees and the occasional wild beast roar. Most of the players had already spread out into the forest, engaged in battle with the monsters.


    Bai Han and Lin Yuwei exchanged glances before walking into the forest, where they encountered their first monster: a two-meter-tall python with red scales that opened its mouth and roared at them.


    [Monster: Demonized Python]


    [Level: Level 3]


    [Health Points: 90]


    [Attack: 120]


    [Skill: Petrified Skin¨CDefense increased by 20% when HP is reduced to 50%]


    Coincidentally, there was a team of four people around them who saw the giant python. They were so scared that their souls almost flew out of their bodies. They cursed their bad luck. They hadn¡¯t gone too deep into the forest yet, and they had already encountered a Level 3 monster!


    It was too late to run, because the python had already entered the aggro range and was quickly crawling over.


    At this moment, the people from the small team saw the two of them and their faces lit up. They hurriedly shouted, ¡°Hey! You guys over there. This monster¡¯s level is too high for us to handle alone. Let¡¯s team up and take it down. We¡¯ll give you all the drops, we just want the experience!¡±


    Bai Han almost cursed when he heard that. Who didn¡¯t know the drop rate in the Mystic Realm? Only Boss-level monsters would have a 100% chance of dropping equipment. Although this python¡¯s level was high, it was still an ordinary monster. Who knew if it would drop anything?


    Bai Han was annoyed by their offer. ¡°No need, you guys can leave. We¡¯ll take care of it,¡± he replied. Then he and Lin Yuwei approached the giant python.


    As soon as the four people saw Bai Han and Lin Yuwei take out their magic staffs and attack the Level 3 python, their initial panic turned into amusement. They couldn¡¯t believe that two Level 0 rookies, wielding only staffs, would attempt to challenge such a powerful monster.


    They were convinced that the duo was about to become cannon fodder, offering themselves up for the benefit of others. They agreed silently among themselves that if the two managed to grind down 40% of the python¡¯s HP before dying, they would swoop in and take the spoils.


    However, their amusement quickly turned to shock as they watched the two novices deliver powerful blows to the python¡¯s head with their staffs. The four spectators burst into laughter at the sight of the duo, who seemed to have no actual skills beyond basic staff attacks.


    But in the blink of an eye, their smiles disappeared as they saw two huge numbers appear above the python¡¯s head after the staff strikes.


    -50


    -45


    Incredibly, the python¡¯s total HP was only 90, and it died instantly without even mounting a counterattack. The four spectators were stunned by the duo¡¯s overwhelming damage.


    The four present were all combat-oriented jobs with Strength attributes at 10 points. However, there was one person among them who was exceptionally talented. His Intelligence was only at 2 points, but his Strength was at 13 points.


    While one point of strength could increase two points of attack power, the novice weapon with an attribute of attack power +5 meant that the person with the highest strength could only cause 31 points of damage with a normal attack, without considering the defense.


    But the two people in front of them were different¡­


    Novice weapons had the same attributes, so the strength of these two was more than 20?


    Impossible!


    Did this Level-3 python have negative defense or something? How was it possible for a Level 0 newbie, let alone a Mage class characters, to inflict such high damage?


    The four of them felt like they were in a dream, but their worldview was shattered in the next second. As the python¡¯s corpse fell to the ground, it turned into a ball of white light and exploded, dropping many items.


    BOOOOOM!


    It was a big explosion, something that usually only appeared on elite monsters and bosses. Yet it had happened with an ordinary monster, which wasn¡¯t in the guide.


    Did the game have a bug that invaded reality?


    If Bai Han knew what they were thinking, he would probably say that there was no bug, but he had a cheat. With the double buff of the basic buff, Bai Han¡¯s attribute points had reached 15 points, including a terrifying 20 points of strength. What¡¯s more, his basic buff worked on equipment, so a novice weapon that could only increase attack by 5 points would increase attack by 15 points in his hands.


    It was also due to this that Bai Han¡¯s normal attack caused 50 points of damage, while Lin Yuwei¡¯s and his basic attributes and equipment attributes were roughly the same. However, they had triggered the giant python¡¯s passive defense skill, so her damage output was five points lower than Bai Han¡¯s.


    Despite this, the two of them still easily killed the Level 3 monster.


    [Demonized Python killed. Obtained 25 EXP. Killed monsters above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    The notification popped up on Bai Han and Lin Yuwei¡¯s screens,


    informing them that they had received double rewards for defeating an opponent


    of a higher level, granting them 50 experience points each.


    Their level 0 experience bar was now halfway filled, a feat that left them in awe. What astounded them even more was the massive amount of loot they received from the ordinary monster¡¯s corpse.


    Could this be the result of their ten points in Luck and the ten times increased drop rate?


    The effect seemed to be more significant than they had anticipated.


    The duo quickly gathered the items dropped by the monster and briskly left, paying no attention to the four stunned bystanders. Once they reached a secluded area, they meticulously inspected each of the items they had obtained.


    [Equipment: Snakeskin Wrist Guard (Bronze); Basic Attributes: Strength +4, Intelligence +8; Equipment Requirement: Level 1]


    [Equipment: Snakeskin Boots (Bronze); Basic Attributes: Defense +20, Agility +5; Equipment Requirement: Level 1]


    [Equipment: Snake Skin Cape (Bronze); Basic Attributes: Defense


    +30, Constitution +7; Equipment Requirement: Level 1]


    [Equipment: Venom Fang Dagger (Silver); Basic Attributes: Attack +35.;


    Special Attribute: 30% chance to poison the enemy for 15 seconds, reducing 3 HP


    per second; Equipment Requirement: Level 1]


    A mere Level 3 monster had dropped four pieces of equipment, including a Silver-grade weapon! If he didn¡¯t take anything else into account, these rewards alone were nearly equivalent to what others would achieve in this mystic realm in four or five days!

 Chapter 5

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°We¡¯ve defied all laws of heaven and earth!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t be complacent. I don¡¯t think it¡¯s that simple.¡±


    Lin Yuwei felt that everything was too ridiculous. According to the norm, such a huge python would require at least four people to attack it together for at least two rounds before it could be killed accurately.


    The two of them took out the python in front of them and destroyed it like a caterpillar in mere seconds!


    ¡°This skill you awakened is the reason we were able to defeat that python so easily. If I had been alone, I would have been swallowed and digested three times over,¡± said Lin Yuwei as she picked up the bracers and boots with a skeptical look. She seemed to prefer these light items. Bai Han, on the other hand, kept the thick cloak and seemingly useless dagger.


    As they continued to explore the mystic realm, they soon realized that the python they had defeated was just the beginning. In an instant, they found themselves surrounded by five giant pythons. Lin Yuwei¡¯s face turned pale with fear.


    ¡°It¡¯s your fault, you bastard! You attracted so many!¡± she yelled at Bai Han.


    But Bai Han was determined to fight back. ¡°Bring it on! We can handle this as long as we¡¯re together,¡± he said.


    Lin Yuwei wasn¡¯t convinced. ¡°Do you really think sticking together is enough to make us stronger? Can¡¯t you be more mature?¡±


    The pythons were drooling as if the two children in front of them were tempting meat pies. However, Bai Han noticed two trees behind the python on the left with a narrow opening in the middle. He realized that he could use this to his advantage.


    ¡°Listen, I know this is ridiculous, but we have to survive,¡± Bai Han said, trying to reason with Lin Yuwei.


    Lin Yuwei was furious. ¡°How can you still be thinking about nonsense at a time like this?¡±


    Ignoring her protests, Bai Han quickly tied Lin Yuwei to his cloak with his dagger. ¡°Trust me,¡± he said, before plunging the dagger into the python on the left.


    -225!


    A number with an exclamation mark appeared!


    The critical hit value was displayed as the dagger struck the snake¡¯s seventh inch, causing it to fall to the ground. The four remaining pythons charged forward, but Bai Han swiftly dodged and slipped through the narrow gap between two trees.


    ¡°Thud! Thump! Thud!¡±


    The four pythons got stuck between the trees, and Bai Han urged Lin Yuwei to attack, ¡°What are you waiting for? Let¡¯s beat them up!¡±


    -90


    -95


    -92


    -180!


    In just four moves, the four pythons were defeated, leaving the duo feeling accomplished and powerful. Killing a monster with such ease was every newbie¡¯s dream.


    ¡°I am the incarnation of death! Bring it on!¡± Bai Han shouted into the mystic realm, relishing his newfound strength and freedom.


    Lin Yuwei watched the boy¡¯s elation, and instead of judging him, she felt a sense of relief.


    [Demonized Python killed. Obtained 25 EXP. Killed monsters above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    [Demonized Python killed. Obtained 25 EXP. Killed monsters above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    [Critical hit! Demonized Python killed! Obtained 60 EXP. Killed monsters above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    ¡­


    It appeared that critical hits granted experience bonuses! Additionally, by defeating the five pythons, they were gaining experience at a rate akin to rapidly flipping through a book!


    The duo continued to emit a brilliant glow. Having slain the five massive pythons and doubling their experience, their levels skyrocketed to Level 5.5!


    ¡°Clang!¡±


    Of the pythons they defeated, three dropped rare artifacts and bonus items, while an astounding three of the five dropped rare items. The drop rate was simply unbelievable!


    [Mystic Realm Experience Fruit x6: Consuming one grants you 100 mystic realm EXP and 200 normal EXP. It can also be given to others. Using this fruit increases the level of the mystic dungeon and expands the monster detection range. Additionally, it deals extra magic damage to monsters in the mystic dungeon and increases the chance of obtaining exclusive items from the mystical realm. These exclusive items can only be used within the mystical realm.]


    [Golden Magic Crossbow Bolts x500: When used with a Golden Magic Crossbow, these bolts can inflict true damage on non-mechanical units. The amount of damage dealt is dependent on the player¡¯s strength and attack power.]


    [Intermediate Gold Magic Crossbow: Used with a Golden Magic Crossbow Bolt; Equipment Requirement: Level 5; Range: 1000 yards.]


    [Vampiric Void Staff: Can be used for both ranged and close-range attacks. Grants 15% vampiric effect for ranged attacks, and 30% vampiric effect for close-range attacks.]


    [Golden Fruit (Attack Speed): Upon consumption, the corresponding attribute will instantly increase to its limit, which is 100 times the current level. Can be consumed at Level 6 or above. Duration: 3 minutes.]


    [Magic Resistance Leather Armor: Suitable for players who wield light weapons such as crossbows or daggers. Provides 35% reduction in magic damage. Equipment Requirement: Level 6.]


    [Magic Resistance Cloth Armor: Suitable for players who wield magic weapons such as canes or crystal balls. Increases magic damage by 50% and reduces magic damage by 15%.]


    [Absolute Attribute Dice x10: This dice has six sides, each representing a bonus or reduction in strength, agility, and intelligence. Upon rolling the dice, the corresponding attribute will increase or decrease based on the result. Due to its absolute bonus effect, every third roll is guaranteed to be an increase.]


    The sight of the various impressive items left them speechless.


    ¡°I¡¯ll take the front line and charge in. It¡¯s better for you to wear the leather armor and shoot from the back,¡± said Bai Han as he handed over the crossbow and leather armor to Lin Yuwei. He then took the staff and cloth armor for himself. They each ate three Mystic Realm EXP Fruits, knowing that the Golden Fruit would be invaluable in a critical moment.


    Thanks to the fruits, they quickly reached level 7. However, with their awakened skills, their abilities were at least level 15 or even level 20.


    As they continued on their journey, their field of vision expanded due to the fruit. Suddenly, a series of unpleasant sounds echoed, coming closer and closer.


    ¡°Hiss hiss-!¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t stray too far apart!¡± Bai Han warned, and they slowed down to listen. The four people following them heard the sounds too, and fear crept in. Their eyes lost focus, as if they were


    trapped in a nightmare..


    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with all of you?¡± Bai Han asked.


    ¡°Hiss hiss-!¡±


    The hissing sounds intensified, and the two of them slowly looked up. Lin Yuwei quickly hugged Bai Han from behind and trembled with fear. She hid under his cloth armor and cloak.


    ¡°Hmph, it seems like there really is something here!¡± As he spoke, he took out his Vampiric Void Staff and prepared to face the most terrifying battle!


    Of course, the four others that were tagging behind feared for his life, believing that he might become the embodiment of death.

 Chapter 6

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    Finally, the two of them saw the terrifying creature hovering above their heads, emitting a soft hissing sound.


    ¡°Hisssss¡­¡±


    Its eyes were filled with extreme desire, but Bai Han tried to calm himself and spoke, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s just a mutated creature that doesn¡¯t resemble either a spider or a snake. You can even call it a slave.¡±


    As soon as he finished speaking, the creature let out a fierce cry, and countless pythons and spiders fell from the surroundings, revealing the fearsome creature.


    [Venomous Spider: Basic unit hatched by the mother spider]


    [Skill: Possesses extremely venomous tentacles that can paralyze a person upon contact. However, if the parent spider is killed, all the spiders and pythons will die. Anti-magic items can offset poison damage once before losing effect.]


    [Level: 6]


    [HP: 50]


    [Attack Power: Tentacles (100), Poison (Undefended targets will be killed in one hit. Defenders can be immune to it once.)]


    Despite their small size, the venomous spiders were a force to be reckoned with. If they were any larger, Bai Han and Lin Yuwei might have been in serious trouble. However, Bai Han noticed that the spiders had a long cooldown time between venomous attacks. With careful timing, he could take them out before they had a chance to strike again, thus rendering their venomous attacks useless.


    [Snake Python Spider: The ultimate predator that rules over all pythons and venomous spiders. Its appearance is a nightmare come true, with four of its antennae shaped like tongues and the other four shaped like spider legs. Its head is a combination of a spider and a snake, creating a grotesque and terrifying visage.]


    [Skill: Possesses the same venomous properties as a normal Venomous Spider, but with a larger range and area of effect. It can also project huge eggs, which upon impact with a person¡¯s body, will directly fossilize the person into three Venomous Spiders.]


    [Level: 8]


    [HP: 500]


    [Attack Power: Tentacles (200), Venomous (Same as Venomous Spider)]


    The four people who had been sitting outside the circle of poisonous spiders had fled without a trace, leaving Bai Han to ponder their timidity. After all, they were just facing a few weak spiders, right? However, the situation was much worse than he had initially thought. There were at least 10 to 20 huge pythons and 20 poisonous spiders surrounding them. Even these small spiders were level 6, explaining why the pythons looked like spiders.


    This mythical realm was truly something to be reckoned with.


    ¡°Hiss¡­ Hiss~!¡±


    The hissing of countless spiders filled the air as they slowly crawled closer, causing the area around Bai Han and Lin Yuwei to shrink. Lin Yuwei was too scared to even speak, let alone look at the creatures. However, Bai Han had a plan. A direct confrontation would definitely not solve it.


    The golden fruit that had just dropped from the previous monsters could be a game-changer here. If he were to raise his Agility to the limit, the venom of the spiders would not be able to distinguish between friend and foe. Just one touch could mean instant death for an undefended person.


    With this in mind, Bai Han quickly consumed the golden fruit.


    ¡°I¡¯m not joking with you this time. You have to hold on to me tightly. You have to believe in one thing now. Only by sticking to me can you become stronger. Think of something to fix you to my body,¡± Bai Han said seriously, trying to reassure Lin Yuwei.


    As he spoke, he noticed that Lin Yuwei had stopped crying. He tore off his cloak and turned it into a thin rope, tightly tying himself to her. They now looked like a couple who depended on each other for survival or a father taking care of a frightened child.


    ¡°Now, I¡¯m going to let you experience what it means to fly through time!¡± Bai Han exclaimed, as he noticed the spiders getting closer and closer. Sparks appeared under his feet, and just as the spiders were about to spit out their venom, the venom froze in mid-air. Taking advantage of this moment, Bai Han swiftly moved, carrying Lin Yuwei behind the pythons.


    This was the incredible power of Agility raised to the limit.


    In an instant, the venom splattered onto the spiders outside the circle, causing them to collapse and die. The mother spider was taken aback by the power of the venom, which had unexpectedly killed all of its offspring.


    It hissed and roared in a fit of rage and despair.


    Bai Han, using the golden fruit, quickly wielded his staff and took down all the pythons around the circle with a critical hit to their heads.


    When the mother spider saw this, it immediately ran up. However, the mother spider, despite its agility, could not ascend the web.


    It seemed that they would still encounter this spider in the future. He would never have imagined that he would encounter a terrifying opponent in this place.


    The spider seemed to be very agile. After weaving the web in an instant, it disappeared behind the web.


    ¡°Come out now. It¡¯s over,¡± Bai Han called out. Lin Yuwei, who had been crying, wiped her tears and looked around to find that only the corpses of the spiders and pythons remained on the ground, making her feel better. She had shown her vulnerable side to Bai Han, which she had not done before.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect you to be afraid of anything,¡± Bai Han remarked, breaking the silence between them, which was their first intimate moment.


    ¡°Alright, I think we should go deeper.¡±


    Lin Yuwei quickly cheered up and nodded. They picked up the items dropped by the spiders and pythons that they had just killed. They were also some bonus items and relatively good equipment.


    However, the two of them soon realized a puzzling situation. The pythons they had defeated in the beginning were only at level three, and the Initial Mystic Realm was only at Level 5.


    Yet, the small monsters they had just encountered were at Level 6, and the first boss they faced could very well be at Level 8.

 Chapter 7

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    As they ventured deeper, they remained alert and vigilant because the mutated spider, which posed a grave threat to them, still lurked in the shadows. While Bai Han had swiftly dispatched all the small monsters, the large spider had managed to escape.


    It was likely that the spider was strategizing, either by laying an ambush or powering up to prepare for their next encounter. If they were to confront it directly, it would probably fall to a single blow since it only had 500 HP.


    Bai Han¡¯s awakened skills, fortuitous bonuses, and powerful equipment made it unlikely for any monster below levels 15 to 16 to withstand his attacks.


    Despite encountering small monsters along the way, the duo paid little attention to them and easily defeated them before continuing their exploration of the mystic realm. As they walked, they discovered various EXP bonus items, causing their levels to reach level 8.


    As they approached a wide open area within the realm, they noticed that the surroundings became increasingly barren and the light began to fade away. It seemed as though they were gradually venturing into the darkness.


    ¡°Wait a minute. Something feels off.¡± Lin Yuwei said to Bai Han, who had stopped in front of her, with a puzzled expression. ¡°It¡¯s obvious that the road ahead is getting wider and wider. We should be walking from a forest to an open land. Logically speaking, there should be more clues here.¡±


    ¡°We are walking towards darkness step by step. We have to go in the opposite direction now,¡± Bai Han replied.


    Lin Yuwei looked at Bai Han as if he was mistaken. ¡°Are you mistaken? We came from that place in a straight line. How can we go back?¡±


    ¡°How do you know we were walking in a straight line? The dense forest became more and more sparse. Although the direction seemed clearer, the surroundings became symmetrical. We can¡¯t guarantee that we were really walking in a straight line. What¡¯s leading us forward is probably that dimming light. However, we don¡¯t know if this light is leading us straight or not,¡± Bai Han explained.


    This was an important clue. Something was leading them towards darkness, and the destination couldn¡¯t be good if there was no light. Obviously, since it was already dark and there was no light, it was definitely not something good.


    As they turned to go back, their bodies trembled and their pores opened wide. The hair on their skin stood up, and they found that there was no longer a path behind them. The twisted trees had wrapped around them tightly, creating a barrier that seemed impossible to break.


    The forest behind them seemed to be filled with countless twisted monsters, making it more terrifying than any ghost they had ever encountered.


    Every twisted branch seemed to lead to a dark hole, from which they feared that something terrible would emerge. Lin Yuwei, frightened once again, took refuge behind Bai Han. Her experiences in this mystic realm had been beyond her imagination.


    Bai Han took out his Gold Magic Crossbow and shot out an arrow, but it was stopped by the power of the gnarling forest. Even with its true damage, the arrow was no match for the power of the forest.


    ¡°It seems we have no choice but to face this head-on. Ever since we stepped foot in this mystic realm, it was clear that there would be no turning back. The twisted forest will block our path no matter which direction we choose. The four people we encountered before chose another direction after escaping, which means they too, have their own challenges ahead of them and won¡¯t be able to go back either,¡± Bai Han explained to Lin Yuwei.


    The two of them took out their weapons and used the items they had collected from the monsters they had defeated to increase their defense and attributes


    They used two absolute attribute dice, with Bai Han choosing to add Strength and Lin Yuwei adding Intelligence.


    When they were done buffing up, they ventured toward the darkness. However, after a few steps, they noticed the twisted jungle closing in on them, seeming to stick to their every move. It was as if they had walked only 10 meters, yet the jungle had already surrounded them.


    Eventually, the trees vanished, leaving them standing in a wide open space with the twisted forest still looming behind them. However, there was no visible scenery in front of them.


    [Ding! Congratulations on triggering the special mission. Now, please find the entrance to the mission.]


    [The moment the mission entrance is found, the details of the mission will be sent directly.]


    [This mission is a timed mission!]


    [When the mission countdown ends, the Twisted Jungle will surround the two of you. You will not be able to walk out of the restraints of the Twisted Jungle!]


    [Countdown begins in 20 minutes!]


    With only 20 minutes left, finding the entrance to the mission was crucial. If they failed, they would be trapped inside the Twisted Jungle and perish.


    Despite their efforts, the dense forest proved impenetrable even to Bai Han¡¯s Golden Magic Crossbow. They needed to find another way.


    Observing the mission notification, Bai Han unsheathed the dagger on his body and attempted to stab the forest. However, it seemed to be as impenetrable as an iron plate, resisting all attempts to damage it.


    Bai Han surveyed the open land in front of them, realizing that the twisted jungle behind them was not a clue. There must be some unknown secrets hidden in this open space.


    ¡°Let¡¯s keep moving forward,¡± Bai Han said decisively. ¡°We know that the entrance to the mission is here, and it¡¯s not in the Twisted Jungle behind us. We also know that we can¡¯t harm the Twisted Jungle barrier, so we have to find another way to enter the mission.¡±


    ¡°I will follow your lead,¡± Lin Yuwei said, nodding in agreement. She seemed to be greatly affected by the situation, no longer daring to have her own opinions.

 Chapter 8

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    After walking for an unknown distance, the scenery ahead became progressively darker, as if they were trapped in an endless cycle or simply walking in circles.


    As the light dimmed, their fear grew. Only five minutes ago, they could clearly see the branches and leaves of the Twisted Jungle behind them, but now it had transformed into a pitch-black, twisted curtain.


    The once-visible trees and foliage had vanished into an impenetrable darkness.


    [Ding! 15 minutes left!]


    After five minutes had passed, time seemed to blur by like an arrow¡¯s flight. Suddenly, they both felt their pace slow down, and their feet weighed down as if something was pulling them down.


    ¡°Stop! I finally figured it out!¡± Bai Han exclaimed in the darkness. With no visibility, fear was creeping up on them. They could barely see each other¡¯s outlines in the pitch-black darkness.


    ¡°The ground beneath us is not soil or cement anymore,¡± he continued.


    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Lin Yuwei asked in confusion.


    ¡°We¡¯re on quicksand! That¡¯s why we¡¯re slowing down,¡± Bai Han replied, taking out his Vampiric Void Staff. It was designed to absorb blood and other substances. He faced the sand in front of him and began absorbing it fiercely.


    A miracle occurred at that moment. A path started to form in the twisted jungle before them!


    [Ding! Congratulations, you have found the entrance to the quest.]


    [I will now reveal the details of the special mission to you.]


    [Please find at least one creature from the Fertican Mystic Realm!]


    [There is only one clue for this mission. Please carefully contemplate the following information.]


    [Hint: Ferdican is the guardian of a mysterious creature in the mystic realm. His lifespan is short, and it is crucial that you do not harm him. Killing Ferdican would result in the disappearance of all the creatures in the mystical realm.]


    This hint seemed useless, but upon careful consideration, this hint was found to be very significant.


    Ferdican was not a living being, but rather a location or area in the mystical realm.


    This place was created specifically to protect the mysterious creatures, but the hint suggested that its lifespan was short. This implied that the guardians of this place had a limited lifespan, possibly due to the influence of the organism they were protecting.


    The hint also indicated that the mystical realm creature and its guardian were inextricably linked, and killing the guardian would result in the disappearance of the creatures. Thus, they had to find a non-violent approach to obtain the creature.


    With this clue in mind, they ventured deeper into the Twisted Jungle and discovered that the interior was vastly different from the outside of the mystical realm.


    Before proceeding further, they checked their current attributes and information, hoping to be prepared for any potentially terrifying dangers that lay ahead.


    [Name: Bai Han]


    [Class: Priest]


    [Level: 8 (933/1100)]


    [Constitution: 85 (+29)]


    [Spirit: 90 (+28)]


    [Strength: 113 (+39)]


    [Intelligence: 87 (+20)]


    [Agility: 89 (+38)]


    [Health Points: 3480 (+1000)]


    [Mana Points: 4300 (+2000)]


    [Luck: 30]


    Bai Han swiftly checked his attribute panel, finding it satisfactory for withstanding some attacks and situations.


    Lin Yuwei nodded in agreement after glancing at her own attributes.


    The twisted forest ahead took on a more solid appearance, with branches visibly straightening from their previously contorted state. However, the branches appeared petrified rather than wooden, with a different color.


    Bai Han thought of the term ¡°petrification¡± and considered a seemingly ridiculous creature that could cause such an effect. But, how could there be such a creature in this place?


    Casting away his doubts and suspicions, he continued to advance.


    ¡°Bang! Hiss hiss-!¡±


    The ground ruptured as a massive cobra, larger than any python they had seen, burst forth, blocking their path and transforming the previously open route into a sheer cliff.


    They now had to confront the colossal serpent in their way.


    [Monster: Awakened Mother Cobra]


    [Health Points: 2800]


    [Attack Power: 260]


    [Level: 10]


    [Skill: Its intimidating size and appearance instill fear in anyone


    who lays eyes on it. The cobra possesses an incredibly potent binding ability


    that resists magical attempts to break free. Once the cobra encircles its prey,


    it creates a formidable barrier that is nearly impenetrable.


    During this process, the mother cobra summons smaller cobras to attack relentlessly until the prey within the barrier is exhausted. Each time the smaller cobras bite, their venom inflicts a permanent reduction of one point on the target¡¯s attributes until they fall to zero, rendering them a cripple.]


    Hence, the strategy to defeat it was straightforward ¨C prevent it from creating the barrier. And regardless of the snake¡¯s species, its weak spot always remained at seven inches below its head.


    ¡°You have an idea how to defeat this thing, right?¡±


    ¡°But such a huge python, how can I shoot at that vital spot seven inches below its head?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget that this is a cobra. Its weak spot is more obvious than a python¡¯s. I will attract its attention and make it use all means to surround me with a barrier.


    ¡°I¡¯m sure this is the entrance to Fertican, and this very large cobra must be guarding the entrance. It doesn¡¯t want us to enter Fertican.¡±


    As he spoke, Bai Han ingested a Golden Fruit to boost his agility. As the cobra was enormous, Bai Han knew that increasing his agility could only improve his speed and not his climbing ability.


    Nevertheless, he had to climb onto the cobra¡¯s body to accurately stab its weak spot.


    However, doing so would be extremely perilous, since even a slight shake could send him plummeting down the cliff at the entrance.


    Death seemed inevitable, but he had to take the risk to defeat the cobra and continue his journey.

 Chapter 9

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    It was clear that he needed to either defeat the snake or create an opening for Lin Yuwei to take the shot. The key was to prevent the snake from forming its impenetrable barrier. However, the cobra¡¯s speed was a formidable obstacle, like competing with a cheetah.


    He knew that even with the Golden Fruit, it would be difficult to stop the formation of the barrier as it only increased his speed and couldn¡¯t help him pass through obstacles or climb rocks.


    Desperately searching for a solution, he stumbled upon the tail of the cobra. It seemed like a promising path since even though the tail was massive, it had a flat surface to rest on.


    If he could move quickly and make his way to the cobra¡¯s brain from the tail, he might have a chance to expose its weak spot. However, he knew the risk was high, and any mistake could lead to a fatal fall.


    ¡°Hiss hiss-!¡±


    The massive cobra began to circle around, intent on slowly torturing Bai Han to death after forming the barrier. But with the agility blessing granted by the Golden Fruit coursing through his veins, Bai Han darted out of the cobra¡¯s reach, searching for its tail.


    He soon discovered that the tail was concealed on a platform beneath the cliff. However, the agility boost only amplified his speed and not his climbing or falling abilities. If he charged directly at the cliff at his highest velocity, he would surely plummet to his death.


    There was only one option left: to find an escape route from the cobra¡¯s grasp. Once he succeeded, the cobra would be forced to widen its circle, revealing its vulnerable tail.


    ¡°Find a good hiding spot and get ready to shoot its weak spot!¡± Bai Han instructed Lin Yuwei as he ran. After circling around numerous times, the effect of the Golden Fruit was about to wear off. However, his efforts paid off when the tail of the massive cobra emerged from the platform below the cliff.


    The colossal white cobra blocked the entrance to Ferdican, making it impossible to see the door.


    [Warning! The effect of the Golden Fruit will only last for another 30 seconds!]


    With little time left, Bai Han charged towards the tail of the snake, running along its skin like a plane on a runway. He then made a swift charge towards the head, stabbing it with his dagger.


    -300


    A value floated out, but the small damage was insignificant to the cobra due to its strong defense and high HP. Nevertheless, the scratch was enough to make the cobra lift its head, exposing its weak spot.


    ¡°Now!¡± Bai Han shouted, knowing that this was their only chance. If they missed this opportunity, they would be at the mercy of the cobra¡¯s deadly attack.


    Lin Yuwei, who was already in position, released a Golden Magic Crossbow Bolt with precision and force. The arrow pierced through the snake¡¯s skin and came out from the other side. The cobra let out a deafening roar and collapsed in front of the door, completely immobilized.


    -4800


    A red critical hit value appeared, indicating that the attack was extremely powerful. Since it hit the snake¡¯s fatal spot, it triggered a critical hit that dealt more than ten times the usual damage. What¡¯s more, the Golden Magic Crossbow Bolt dealt true damage, which could bypass the cobra¡¯s defense entirely.


    However, when the snake stopped moving, the door to Ferdicon began to slowly close. It seemed impossible to open the huge stone door now.


    As they examined the dead giant cobra, Bai Han and Lin Yuwei realized that it had not given them any experience points or dispersed any light. This could only mean one thing: there were still many secrets left to discover.


    For instance, they noticed a circular groove beside the huge stone door that was the exact size of the cobra¡¯s diameter. Could it be that they needed to dissect the entire snake to obtain the key to open the door?


    As Bai Han examined the cobra¡¯s massive body, he suddenly remembered the weapon that he had obtained when he fought against the spiders.


    [Blade of the Sharp Sword: A physical weapon intended for non-warriors. It cannot be used to its full potential by non-warriors and will only function as an ordinary sharp blade, resulting in a halved attack power. Carrying it will add a certain amount of weight.]


    Initially, he had disregarded the blade because he was a Priest, not a Warrior, and the weapon¡¯s special functions were only available to Warriors. But now, the situation had changed, and he realized that this blade could be extremely useful to him.


    Bai Han began to move his hands, brandishing the huge blade. Though he was a Priest and had few knife skills, he was proficient in cutting up meat and vegetables.


    With the first slash, he decapitated the snake.


    Then, he noticed a gap inside the giant cobra that led to its body cavity. They could directly walk into the giant snake¡¯s body and find the round key.


    As they entered the snake¡¯s stomach, they found a huge yellow disc blocking their way. This was likely the key to the door. As Bai Han reached for the disc, he saw that it was a massive, yellow disk-shaped object.


    Bai Han added the key to his quest inventory, but suddenly, the snake¡¯s belly began to violently shake. Without the yellow disc, the snake seemed to have truly collapsed.


    Soon, they discovered that the snake had started to petrify after they extracted the yellow disc from within its body. This left them wondering if that massive snake was indeed the hidden creature they had been searching for.

 Chapter 10

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    As they emerged from the snake¡¯s stomach, the entire cobra collapsed and petrified, causing the ground to shake.


    The large disc in their possession fit perfectly into the groove next to the door, indicating that it was the key to the entrance.


    ¡°It seems we¡¯re about to face a terrifying monster that we can¡¯t escape from, or perhaps it¡¯s time for us to learn how to fake blindness,¡± Bai Han remarked.


    ¡°What do you mean? Why would we need to pretend to be blind?¡± Lin Yuwei asked.


    Bai Han showed her the disc, and from her backpack, she could see that it was the key to the wall¡¯s groove. Upon closer inspection, however, she noticed the pattern on the disc, which immediately reminded her of something ominous.


    The disc was adorned with numerous snake-shaped hairs and empty eyes on its face, making it seem as if they would be turned into stone if they looked into its eyes for even a second.


    Moreover, its mouth housed extremely sharp, poisonous fangs, and a tail dragged behind it. It was none other than the infamous Medusa from ancient Greek mythology.


    ¡°Are you saying we¡¯ll encounter that kind of creature here? Won¡¯t we just be helpless in front of it? Even in ancient Greek mythology, Bellerophon almost failed to defeat it!¡± Lin Yuwei exclaimed.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget, that¡¯s just a myth. We don¡¯t know how myths translate to reality, but I do know that mythological creatures are made of flesh and blood, and they can be defeated, Besides, there¡¯s no way out now. Didn¡¯t you notice what¡¯s behind us? There are many twisted and petrified trees surrounding us.¡± Bai Han said.


    As they spoke, both of them turned around simultaneously. Petrified and twisted forests of all kinds surrounded them, indicating that this mission was a one-way trip.


    The two of them took a deep breath and quickly checked their current attributes. Once they confirmed that everything was in order, they inserted the yellow disc into the groove.


    As the disc entered the groove, the surroundings began to shake violently. The door in front of them slowly opened like an automatic sensor door. However, the situation turned worse as soon as the door opened. A terrifying cold aura came out of the door, something a normal person couldn¡¯t possibly withstand.


    The two of them stood at the entrance for a long time, not daring to take a step forward. They had no idea what was waiting for them inside. They could hear the sound of a snake hissing and sticking out its tongue, and they could see countless petrified humans attempting to out of the door.


    Many people had already tried to escape but were petrified and slowly deteriorated before they could make it out of the place.


    If they failed, they would likely end up like the others, becoming a statue and a reminder of everything that had happened there.


    As they stepped inside, the sound of tongues sticking out grew increasingly prominent.


    ¡°Hiss hiss~!¡±


    The buildings and objects around them, though petrified and lifeless, seemed to possess a strange energy. Petrified snakes lay entrenched on the ground, casting fearful glances at the intruders. It appeared that Medusa spared none of her own kind.


    Soon, they arrived at a vast amphitheater, encircled by petrified humans brandishing shields and weapons. Among them were Spartan warriors and Athenian mercenaries garbed in human attire.


    Lin Yuwei retrieved her bow and trained it on the petrified humans, anticipating any attempt to break through the barrier and attack them.


    .


    However, much to her surprise, her actions inadvertently aligned with Medusa¡¯s intentions.


    ¡°Be careful and stay apart!¡± she warned her companion.


    Medusa charged toward Lin Yuwei with a Spartan spear, but just as she was about to strike, Bai Han forcefully shoved her to the side, causing her to collide with a nearby stone pillar.


    ¡°Hissssss~!¡±


    The sound of Medusa¡¯s terrifying scream echoed throughout the entire theater!


    [Ding! Mission updated!]


    [Now, an alternative mission has appeared!]


    [Kill Medusa or find a way to escape her grasp and locate the next exit.]


    In other words, they could choose to bypass Medusa entirely and focus on finding the intersection. The only question was, where was it located within this vast theater?


    Medusa¡¯s system attributes appeared.


    [Monster: Medusa]


    [HP: 3000]


    [Level: 10]


    [Attack Power: 350]


    [Skill 1: Petrification Beam. By activating the evil spirit within her, Medusa¡¯s eyes can not only petrify opponents through direct gaze, but also shoot a Petrification Beam that can petrify them regardless of eye contact. The effect lasts for 30 seconds after a 10-second charge-up


    period.]


    [Skill 2: Thunderstorm. Medusa can use the greatsword in her hand to release Thunderstorm. Thunderstorm damage is magic damage. Those affected by Thunderstorm will have their movement speed reduced. Those affected by Thunderstorm at least twice will have their petrification speed reduced to five seconds.]


    [Skill 3: Teleport. Able to teleport within a 500-yard radius. Cooldown: 10 seconds]


    [Killing Skill 1: If Medusa appears behind the target or directly grasps them in front of the chest, her one-hit killing effect will be triggered. If she appears behind the target, her greatsword will pierce through their body and crush them completely. If she grabs them in front of the chest, they will be petrified forever!]


    Medusa¡¯s skills were extensive, spanning two to three pages, and defeating her would likely require the cooperation of two people. With only seven Golden Fruits remaining, Bai Han had to use them to match Medusa¡¯s speed and strength.


    Meanwhile, Lin Yuwei had to find a secure hiding spot and accurately shoot at Medusa¡¯s body during the 10-second cooldown period of her teleport ability to deal damage.


    Unexpectedly, their thinking was too simplistic as they failed to consider the true purpose of the ¡°onlookers.¡± Once permanently petrified, the victims weren¡¯t just dead stone.

 Chapter 11

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    Bai Han and Medusa continued to move around the amphitheater. As the cooldown time for Medusa¡¯s teleportation skill began counting down, Lin Yuwei, who was hiding in the shadows, shot an arrow at Medusa.


    ¡°Whoosh!¡±


    ¡°Aghhh!¡± Medusa let out a loud roar that caused the entire amphitheater to tremble.


    Immediately, Medusa rose into the air, surrounded by many halos that burst forth. Lin Yuwei attempted to shoot another arrow at the halos, but it was evident that the barrier of the halos was impenetrable.


    It was then that the halos shot out numerous petrifying beams. The two quickly hid behind a stone pillar, knowing that they would be completely petrified if even a small portion of their body was exposed.


    The beams of light scattered in all directions, resembling neon lights in a KTV.


    However, this was only the first stage of the battle. Suddenly, some of the previously petrified humans sitting in the theater began to move.


    [Monster: The Fallen Standator]


    [HP: 350 (Petrified)]


    [Level: 7]


    [Attack Power: 150]


    [Monster: Ezekiel the Fatherslayer]


    [HP: 350 (Petrified)]


    [Level: 7]


    Countless petrified humans descended from the amphitheater and slowly made their way toward Bai Han and Lin Yuwei¡¯s hiding spots. If they stayed put, they would fall prey to Medusa¡¯s puppet army.


    The duo had not anticipated that Medusa possessed such a frightening skill that allowed her to control these puppets and turn the petrified army against them. Even the slightest shift in their position could expose them to the Petrifying Beam.


    ¡°Use your crossbow to shoot at the heads of these petrified puppets!¡± commanded Bai Han.


    ¡°Whoosh!¡±


    ¡°Clack¡ª!¡±


    However, arrows were of little use against rocks, and they had to resort to their magic staffs to smash the so-called puppets into pieces. But they had to be extremely careful because the moment they exposed their skin, they would be bombarded with an endless stream of petrifying beams.


    Suddenly, a petrification beam materialized between them.


    ¡°Quickly dodge and counterattack!¡±


    As they spoke, they dodged behind the Petrified Puppets in front of them and the beams from Medusa quickly turned them into fragments. They noticed a slight gap in the movement of the light beams and followed its rhythm to avoid being affected. However, countless puppets continued to harass them during this period.


    ¡°Now it¡¯s time for the tumbling game. The moment we roll over, we use our staffs to hit them. These stone puppets don¡¯t have high attack power, and their vitality is also very low. They are only used to affect us!¡± Bai Han said.


    Following his plan, they rolled and shattered the two puppets in front of them. However, the Petrifying Beam was catching up with them. With another roll, they killed another pair of Petrified Puppets.


    After the five summoned puppets were all shattered, the halos automatically disappeared, and Medusa fell to the ground. It was now the best opportunity!


    The moment Medusa stood up, her eyes were exposed to Bai Han¡¯s dagger!


    Although the dagger¡¯s attack power was not significant, it was the best chance to defeat Medusa. Those familiar with Greek mythology would know that her weakness was always her eyes. Unless her head was cut off, which was impossible with the tools available.


    As the Golden Fruit¡¯s time limit approached, Bai Han seized the moment and thrust the dagger into Medusa¡¯s eye.


    ¡°Aghh! Aghhh!¡±


    After two roars, Medusa dodged quickly, but not before sustaining a significant injury. A large number appeared above her head.


    -1700!


    The critical damage from the dagger¡¯s attack was significant, and if Bai Han could find a way to strike the other eye, Medusa would be defeated.


    However, Medusa sensed the danger and immediately flew into the air, using the halo to protect herself.


    The second time around, they were more experienced. They knew that destroying all the stone flower puppets that fell would destroy the halos. However, they underestimated the situation. Medusa was furious and the halos began shooting out continuous thunderstorms.


    ¡°Boom! Boom! Boom!¡±


    The thunderstorms made it impossible for them to move. Even a slight movement would result in being smashed into pieces. However, the Petrified Puppets were not affected by the thunderstorms and they had to find a way to dodge between them to take out the puppets.


    This time, the puppets appeared to be more cunning. Medusa summoned only those with bows and arrows, and the stone arrows relentlessly rained down on the stone pillars where the two were taking refuge. If they remained trapped, they would be doomed to fight and wait for their death.


    ¡°I have an idea. I¡¯ll use my Vampiric Void Staff to pull all their bows and arrows over. They¡¯ll definitely try to keep their weapons, and then attack us with real swords instead. Even though these puppets are under Medusa¡¯s control, they will come at us. Once their bows and arrows lose their effectiveness, they will likely switch to another weapon,¡± he said, pulling out his Vampiric Void Staff and drawing in all the stone arrows.


    The archers seemed to realize that something was amiss and immediately threw down their bows, drawing their swords instead.


    It was evident that these soldiers were from Athens, known for their strong defense with bows and arrows in ancient Greece. However, once they drew their weapons, they were no match for the two of them. With a few hand gestures, the archers were quickly defeated.


    Medusa fell once again, and as she stood up, her eyes were exposed once more. This was their last opportunity. If they failed to defeat her now, they didn¡¯t know what kind of terrifying abilities she would unleash next. The number of puppets in the theater was overwhelming; it was impossible to eliminate them all.


    But Medusa was cunning. She raised the large saber in her hand, ready to strike at Bai Han as he charged toward her.

 Chapter 12

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    A bolt from a crossbow pierced through Medusa¡¯s eye, causing her to roar in pain.


    ¡°Argh! Arghhh!¡±


    As Medusa writhed in agony, a red number floated above her head.


    -1450!


    It was clear that Medusa was in her final moments. She covered her eyes and spun around wildly, then a bright light filled the room and she turned into a pile of gravel.


    [Ding! Additional mission objective complete]


    [Please check and accept your reward.]


    [Hero-level monster Medusa has been successfully eliminated! Obtained 300 EXP. Killed monsters above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    [Congratulations on obtaining two divine-tier items!]


    [Intermediate Skill Dice x5: Randomly acquire intermediate skills related to the user¡¯s class by rolling the dice.]


    [Treasure Merchant x5: Use the Treasure Merchant¡¯s teapot to summon a small mall. The mall contains supplementary and one-time-use items.]


    After killing Medusa, their experience points increased by over 600, which led them to reach level 9.


    In addition to the experience points, they received several bonus items such as defensive gear, EXP boosters, the Blood Coagulation Bag for automatic HP recovery, and the Spirit Concentration Pill, which were rare items.


    [1000 Vitality Condensation Pack x4: A powerful item that can help players recover quickly from injuries. Once obtained, it will automatically be equipped into the player¡¯s health points system. Whenever the player is injured and can immediately enter a non-combat state, their health points will recover quickly. Additionally, during the recovery phase, the item will help block damage once. The number 1000 represents the maximum amount of HP that can be recovered using this item.]


    [1000 Concentration Pills x6: This item is a type of consumable that, after being consumed, will be equipped in the player¡¯s magic system. It will automatically restore mana when any skill is used that consumes mana. The maximum amount of mana that can be recovered with one pill is 1000.]


    It was clear that these items were designed for recovery, and it was likely they would need them frequently in the future as the frequency of battles increased. Currently, they didn¡¯t encounter many battles, but that was bound to change.


    The Vitality Condensation Pack and Concentration Pills were like a lifeline in such situations.


    After defeating Medusa, they divided the pills and packs equally amongst themselves. They then discovered that the entrance to the amphitheater was actually the exit, leading them to their next destination.


    As they walked towards the theater¡¯s exit, the duo speculated that something interesting or a checkpoint might be awaiting them.


    Upon leaving the theater, they were greeted by a sign with the name ¡°Ferdican¡± inscribed on it.


    [Ding! Welcome to Ferdican!]


    It was apparent that the mysterious creature they sought was in this vicinity. The theater, the cobra, and the terrifying Medusa they had encountered earlier all seemed to be welcoming stations leading to their destination.


    ¡°We have reached a pivotal location, and we must proceed with caution. Given the creature¡¯s concealed nature, we should expect to encounter numerous hazards.


    ¡°We must adhere to the rules, as the guardian of the creature cannot be slain. Given that it is responsible for guarding the creature, it must possess significant power.


    ¡°Although we took down Medusa and the cobra with ease, the guardian will likely prove a far more formidable adversary. We cannot afford to underestimate this challenge.¡±


    With trepidation, they continued their journey along the barren streets of Ferdican.


    As they continued walking, Lin Yuwei came up with a simple solution that could break them out of the situation: they could subdue the guardian without killing it. Bai Han was impressed by his partner¡¯s growth and quick thinking.


    Their excitement was short-lived as a white creature suddenly appeared in front of them. Despite their attempts to see it clearly, the creature was too fast to identify.


    ¡°Be careful,¡± Bai Han whispered to Lin Yuwei. ¡°I feel like we¡¯re being followed. And it looks like I¡¯m right. Someone¡¯s monitoring us. We don¡¯t know their intentions, but they¡¯re too scared to show themselves. They just watched us fight those monsters without offering any help. It¡¯s obvious that they have ulterior motives.¡±


    He reached for his Void Staff and put on the equipment he had dropped earlier, preparing to defend himself.


    ¡°¡­¡±


    As they continued walking, they heard faint whispers up ahead.


    Although they couldn¡¯t make out what was being said, it was clear that there were no monsters or other dangerous creatures in the vicinity. Someone who could speak meant that there was a living person nearby.


    Could someone be faster than them?


    As they made their way through the tunnel, they realized that there was a large pit up ahead, and they could hear voices coming from below.


    ¡°The residents of this place have a very short lifespan. We can¡¯t take away their so-called mysterious creatures! As soon as the biological body is taken away, everyone will age rapidly. We can¡¯t destroy a race because of our selfishness,¡±


    ¡°But this is just a race in the game. As long as we complete this mission, obtain the mysterious creature, and return to the mythical realm, we can become kings and tyrants. No one can do anything to us. And if someone comes to PK us or if there are even more terrifying creatures attacking us, we won¡¯t be afraid of anyone! I don¡¯t want to live a life of hiding anymore. Take this broken gun!¡±


    Upon hearing the conversation, Bai Han and Lin Yuwei exchanged a knowing look and quickly descended into the pit. It was clear that the people arguing below too were on a mission to find the mysterious creature and had knowledge of its function.


    ¡°Who are you?¡± The three players in front of them raised their AK47s, ready to shoot.


    ¡°We¡¯re players too, and we¡¯re here for the same purpose. Let¡¯s discuss it,¡± Bai Han said as he and Lin Yuwei jumped down.


    ¡°F*ck! More competitors! Don¡¯t even think about competing with us and seizing that mysterious creature. Our profession is the best in this world, and no one dares to tell us what to do!¡± two of the players yelled.

 Chapter 13

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Welcome! You must follow us!¡± The voice of a centenarian came from behind everyone.


    Lin Yuwei was shocked by the voice and quickly ran behind Bai Han.


    When Lin Yuwei saw the terrifying appearance of the centenarian, she trembled in fear. The centenarian had a hunchbacked waist that looked like the letter C, a big red head with only one eye, and a mouth with countless sharp teeth. It did not look like a human or a monster. It looked like a hybrid between a normal person and a terrifying monster.


    This made Lin Yuwei think of the spider and python hybrid from before.


    ¡°Hello, we¡¯re from Ferdican.¡±


    It turned out that the so-called terrifying figure in front of them was actually a native of Ferdican. After understanding this, they realized that the natives had only one mission for generations, and that was to protect these mysterious creatures and not allow anyone with any ulterior motives to take them away.


    Obviously, the reason why the other players didn¡¯t manage to seize these creatures forcefully was that the indigenous residents of this place, the Ferdicans, had stopped them.


    ¡°Sir, we¡¯re just following the system¡¯s instructions to complete the mission. I hope you won¡¯t make things difficult for us,¡± said Bai Han.


    ¡°Gentlemen, our mission for generations has been to protect this place. Just as you have a mission to accomplish, so do we. If you possess the ability to take away what we hold dear, but lack the strength to overcome us, then you have only yourself to blame.¡±


    The Ferdican spoke calmly, indicating that many had come before with the intention of stealing the mysterious creature, but none had succeeded. This was because the creature was of great importance to them.


    While he didn¡¯t know the exact appearance or name of the creature, he was aware of its effects. It was an energy source upon which the indigenous people of Ferdican relied to survive. Without it, they would age rapidly, leading to a short lifespan of 30 to 40 years.


    The harsh living conditions were attributed to the monsters that attacked and tried to take the creatures away. To protect them, the ancestors of Ferdican had trained terrifying guardians, which had led to the destruction of the environment.


    Over time, the guardians tasked with protecting the mysterious creatures had lost their ability to differentiate friend from foe among the local Ferdicans.


    This led to countless attacks and the guardians even laid eggs in the area. These guardians were mostly flying ant lions with various dangerous and poisonous features.


    As a result, the ecosystem was destroyed, and approaching the mysterious creatures became impossible.


    The Ferdicans were on the verge of giving up and living in the few remaining cracks of the destroyed ecosystem. If this continued, they would face extinction.


    ¡°So, whether we come to snatch this so-called biological body or not, your final outcome will be extinction.¡±


    The older native did not speak. To them, this was indeed the case. However, the legends surrounding the mysterious creature were unproven and no one had ever confirmed that it truly affected the lifespan of the local people.


    ¡°Let¡¯s strike a deal,¡± said Bai Han.


    ¡°I¡¯m listening,¡± replied the older native. ¡°As long as it¡¯s reasonable, we¡¯re open to it.¡±


    ¡°We will help you restore the ecosystem here, eliminate the terrifying monsters, and then we¡¯ll try to take away the mysterious creature. If it causes you serious aging, we¡¯ll release it immediately. I don¡¯t believe that taking away the biological body will cause you to age quickly. There¡¯s no evidence to support that claim. In fact, by helping you eliminate the bad ecological systems, the average lifespan of your race may increase,¡± explained Bai Han.


    Bai Han¡¯s words resonated with the Ferdicans. For generations, they had struggled to rid their world of harmful ecological systems and had created a sanctuary to protect their way of life.


    They were willing to consider letting the outsiders take the creature, as long as it didn¡¯t pose a risk to their survival.


    ¡°Then prove your strength to me first. Although Ferdicans may have short lives, they are not to be underestimated when angered. If you want me to believe you can destroy these ecological systems infested with monsters, show me what you can do. Once you leave this secret base and go deeper, you¡¯ll see that almost all the caves and ecological systems have been polluted by these creatures.¡±


    ¡°Beep! Beep! Beep!¡±


    At that moment, they noticed four caves in the area, each installed with corresponding alarm lights. It appeared that the indigenous residents had some advanced technology.


    They learned that once these alarms lit up, it meant that the ant lions were attacking and that it was their last line of defense to maintain a comfortable life.


    The alarms had three warning levels, represented by the number of lights lit up. If all three were on, it meant that all the ant lions in a certain nest had been mobilized. Currently, only one light was on.


    ¡°Deploy the machine guns quickly!¡± The three of them retrieved their automatic handguns from behind the rock. These machine guns could be assembled to fire accurately and rapidly. They needed to protect the defense line to have any chance of obtaining the mysterious creature.


    Bai Han was curious about the ant lion and what made it such a terrifying monster. For him, exploring mysteries was the greatest pleasure in the world, and killing monsters was the most basic form of enjoyment.


    ¡°Bring it on!¡±

 Chapter 14

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°We¡¯re not going to help out you two lousy Mages. These are physical creatures, and your magic staffs are useless,¡± the three other players sneered with disdain.


    They had been stationed there for a while and had intended to pass the time dealing with the so-called ant lions.


    Their na?ve thoughts betrayed them; these horrifying creatures had a tendency to reappear here constantly. They would reproduce and multiply, while their ammunition and equipment were finite. Even if they managed to slay the creatures and obtain their equipment, it would still result in a war of attrition, one that was impossible to win.


    They quickly buried the remaining mines in boxes along the monster¡¯s path, with only one Disturbing Landmine in each box, and five to six ordinary Landmines left in their stock.


    Based on their current supplies, it was apparent that they could only sustain one wave of attacks.


    ¡°Hurry up and move out of the way. You¡¯re only hindering us,¡± they urged the mages.


    [Disturbing Landmine: May not cause significant damage, but it has an intense reaction force. Any creature that touches or remains within 20 yards of the mine for over three seconds will immediately explode, causing a powerful impact force. This effect is not selective and affects both friends and foes. It will push any creatures within range away violently, with the mine at the center.


    If there are at least five creatures in the vicinity, the mine will stun them for a certain


    duration. The stun effect will last longer if there are multiple groups of creatures.]


    The four entrances were guarded by machine gun turrets, but they were clearly not a long-term solution. Continuously firing the turrets would cause them to overheat and eventually leave them defenseless against the monsters.


    ¡°Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!¡±


    Four consecutive explosions stunned all the monsters. The wave of creatures was then quickly eliminated with the help of ordinary mines and the machine gun towers.


    ¡°See that? What can you two mages do? Guns and cannons are far more practical than your fancy staffs.¡±


    Bai Han heard their words and chuckled, his smile filled with contempt and disdain.


    The two guards overheard him and became defensive. ¡°What, not convinced?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m not convinced, no. You may be strong, but if another wave comes, can you handle it? You¡¯ll end up torn apart by the antlions and become nothing but monster food. You¡¯ll just be a pile of shit!¡±


    The humiliation caused the three gunmen to fly into a rage, and they raised their AKs.


    ¡°Crack!¡±


    ¡°Second Brother, my gun is jammed!¡±


    ¡°I told you to take good care of it, but you didn¡¯t listen!¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re talking nonsense. There¡¯s no place for maintenance in this place!¡±


    ¡°Did you see that? You don¡¯t have the materials to maintain your weapons, nor do you have the resources to make new mines. When the machine guns overheat and fail, what will you do? And those monsters are endless because they can reproduce!¡±


    The two men grabbed their sabers and were about to rush over, but their leader quickly stopped them and turned to Bai Han and Lin Yuwei.


    ¡°My soldiers were a little stubborn just now. Please forgive us. If you have any good ideas, we will follow your lead!¡±


    ¡°Then please provide us with some reliable information.¡±


    The leader informed them that deep in the third cave, there were antlion eggs guarded by a fearsome antlion. They also discovered that at the center of the egg was a mysterious organism that could provide unlimited supply of a certain material or item if obtained.


    Everyone¡¯s eyes widened with excitement at the possibility of such a powerful advantage.


    But Bai Han held back for a while and suppressed his curiosity. The ant lion guard was likely the guardian mentioned in the notification, and they couldn¡¯t kill it. He quickly realized the veteran¡¯s scheme. The veteran didn¡¯t want his team to risk their lives exploring the eggs in the third cave themselves, but wanted someone else to do it for them.


    Bai Han discreetly checked the veteran¡¯s system attributes.


    Name: Sheffield


    [Class: Cannoneer]


    [Military Rank: Colonel]


    ..


    It appeared that the veteran, named Sheffield, was a seasoned colonel who had experienced numerous battles. As the saying goes in the Call of Duty game, ¡°Once a war begins, it never ends.¡±


    This is because wars are formed by countless famous and nameless casualties. As long as someone dies, another life lives on. Where there are people, there will inevitably be conflict.


    It was likely that this colonel wanted Bai Han and his companions to perish so that he could assess the situation and decide whether to retreat or press on for the victory.


    ¡°Mr. Veteran, shouldn¡¯t we go together? You don¡¯t have any equipment that can be used for defense, but at least you have equipment that can be used for offense,¡± said Bai Han.


    Facing the so-called ant lion guards, we will work together to destroy the eggs and then find the so-called mysterious creature together,¡± he added.


    The colonel¡¯s face darkened.


    ¡°That¡¯s right, Colonel. These two at least look like they can lift a few taels of iron. Five people are better than three. But remember, these fruits are ours. Don¡¯t even think of looting them. We came first so we¡¯ll go by the first come, first served concept.¡±


    The colonel¡¯s two soldiers were a second lieutenant and a first lieutenant. Of course, they didn¡¯t know what the old fox was thinking.


    ¡°Impressive. It seems like you¡¯re not a simple person. Since you know what I want, I hope you¡¯d prove yourself to be more interesting,¡± said Sheffield as he picked up the equipment in his hand and walked towards Cave No. 3.


    What began as a seemingly straightforward five-person exploration operation, was in fact an expedition driven by individual ulterior motives. But, little did they know, their assumptions about the situation were about to be shattered.

 Chapter 15

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Hiss hiss-!¡± a familiar sound echoed in their ears as they stepped into the third cave.


    Lin Yuwei quickly retreated and clung to Bai Han, remembering the hybrid spider they had encountered in the Initial Mystic Realm forest.


    But how could the spider have made its way here? Had it been living in the depths of this cave all along, or had it somehow followed them from the forest?


    Confusion clouded their thoughts as they realized that they could no longer determine whether they were ascending or descending, ever since they had entered the Twisted Jungle.


    Could this be part of a trap set by the hybrid spider? The sound of hissing grew louder as they continued walking, and soon they heard another familiar voice.


    The voices of the two women, coupled with the annoying voice echoed, ¡°You two mixed-race women! Hurry up and get rid of this hybrid spider. Am I raising you for food? Chen Han! Hurry up and take the damage. I want to kill him in one go!¡±


    That¡¯s right, the four-man team that annoyed people had appeared near them. In other words, the four-man team had entered this place through other methods.


    The two lower-ranked military personnel looked at their superior officer for an explanation. ¡°Sir, what¡¯s going on? There¡¯s only one way into the third cave. How did those people get in?¡±


    ¡°Sir, what¡¯s going on? There¡¯s only one way into the third cave. How did those people get in?¡±


    Sheffield was at a loss for words. He didn¡¯t know how to face his two subordinates who had entered this world with him.


    ¡°Simon, let¡¯s not worry about this. Let¡¯s hurry up and find the mysterious creature.¡±


    ¡°Sir, we call you sir because we trust you. We¡¯ve been through a lot together, and now you¡¯re telling us that you did something behind our backs.¡±


    ¡°War doesn¡¯t concern itself with friends.¡±


    After saying this, Sheffield walked forward, picking up the Magnum pistol in his hand. He knew his two subordinates would never trust him again.


    ¡°Sanderson, I think we should figure this out on our own. It seems the colonel doesn¡¯t want us interfering with his affairs.¡±


    The two of them patted each other¡¯s shoulders and continued walking forward.


    ¡°If the two of you don¡¯t mind, you can join my team!¡± Bai Han suggested.


    ¡°We¡¯re Gunners, and you¡¯re a Mage. Wouldn¡¯t it be better if we stayed separate?¡±


    ¡°Do you have a choice? In a place like this, what¡¯s the difference between a Level 6 Gunner like you and a Waterflame Staff?¡± Bai Han was really convincing.


    The two of them looked at each other. Other than killing a few small monsters, they really couldn¡¯t do anything else.


    ¡°Thank you¡­¡±


    As they spoke, they headed toward the source of the sound.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Just as they turned a corner and arrived at a huge hollow platform, Sheffield suddenly let out a scream.


    The huge hybrid spider with four snake antennae and four normal antennae appeared in front of them again. Bai Han and his new teammates were stunned by the system¡¯s message.


    [Monster: Python Spider]


    [Level: 11]


    [Health Points: 5000]


    [Attack Power: Tentacles (500), Poison (One Hit Kill)]


    [Skill: The monster has been demonized and cannot use the previous skill. However, it has a stronger skill. The monster can weave a very terrifying spider space or python space. Any human or individual that is woven into it. It will be permanently sealed and transformed into a spider or python, weaving three or more spaces. The space can form a powerful defense tower mechanism that will attack any individual that approaches the monster. Attack power depends on the number of spaces. The more spaces there are, the stronger the attack power!]


    Back then, the four-man team had already been scared away. Now, they had even stronger equipment on them, but they were still helpless against this demonized spider.


    And that scream from Sheffield, it was obvious that the spider had begun to weave a space that belonged to him. It could be seen that under everyone¡¯s feet was also a terrifying python space. Therefore, they finally knew the source of those pythons and spiders.


    Now that this spider had been completely demonized, it was definitely able to completely control this terrifying power.


    ¡°Over there! It¡¯s that thing!¡±


    Everyone looked over and saw a sparkling crystal on the spider¡¯s abdomen. Only that place was protected every time the spider attacked.


    ¡°So it¡¯s the two of you again! Hurry up and help us get the crystal. Otherwise, don¡¯t blame me for being rude to you!¡± One of the girls said to them with a blade in her hand.


    Bai Han and Lin Yuwei did not care about the two snobbish people¡¯s words at all. They looked carefully at the snake python spider that had been demonized.


    The last time they saw this spider, it looked very weak in the initial mystic realm forest. It was only a slightly larger spider, although it looked quite terrifying.


    In other words, the attributes and levels of these monsters had been strengthened to varying degrees after passing through the Initial Mystic Realm Forest to reach the Twisted Jungle. Looking at the terrifying ant lions that had just appeared, they even wondered if those monsters were the little spiders from the Initial Mystic Realm Forest.


    However, the next move of the monstrous spider confirmed their suspicions!


    ¡°Hiss hiss~!¡±


    ¡°Brother Zhou, save me!¡±


    One of the girls was trying to avoid the giant spider¡¯s tentacles, but she accidentally got infected by the eggs that the giant spider spat out!


    To their shock, the eggs had a completely different effect than those encountered in the Initial Mystic Realm forest.


    As the girl stumbled backward, she was suddenly drawn into the middle of a rapidly expanding wave. In an instant, her body split open and she transformed into three huge antlions!


    The sight was too much for the onlookers, who retreated in terror.


    Meanwhile, Sheffield managed to break free from the spider¡¯s grasp and charged as fast as he could. But he was no longer a normal human. He had transformed into a terrifying python!

 Chapter 16

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°F*ck!¡±


    Zhou Qiang cursed fiercely. In his opinion, there was already one less goal that could be achieved. Everyone knew what his goal was.


    The other girl quickly grabbed Zhou Qiang¡¯s arm and said, ¡°Nana is already dead. I¡¯m the only one left. You have to save me. You can¡¯t leave me here!¡±


    ¡°Get lost! I don¡¯t know if you can survive! As long as you still want me, hurry up and give me some conditions to deal damage. Otherwise, I don¡¯t care who you are!¡±


    Zhou Qiang¡¯s words were thrown at her coldly. The girl looked at the huge spider in front of her with tears in her eyes.


    Just as she was about to take out her weapons and rush forward to fight, Bai Han and Lin Yuwei quickly stopped her and said, ¡°Are you stupid? How can you defeat it? You¡¯re only at level six! You¡¯re not even strong enough to take out the gaps between his teeth.¡±


    ¡°I have no choice. I need money and power, and status. Otherwise, dying here is the same as dying out there!¡±


    As she spoke, the girl rushed forward. Of course, the outcome was obvious. She was instantly knocked down by the insect egg and turned into three terrifying monsters!


    ¡°Zhou Qiang, you bastard!¡±


    While he was still scolding him, Zhou Qiang took out the delaying magic staff in his hand.


    This magic staff looked very powerful. It looked like a new weapon he had obtained.


    [Delaying Magic Staff: This staff has a very powerful magic penetration attack, but it requires a delayed effect first. When the attacker has just released a skill that requires a cooldown, you can use a delayed effect on him. The cooldown of the skill will be tripled.


    Its effect is a one-time effect. During the time of effect, the magic staff will have a very powerful penetrating effect.]


    As he spoke, Zhou Qiang cast a delaying spell on the giant spider in front of him with the staff in his hand. With that, the spider could not shoot eggs again within the next three minutes.


    ¡°Chen Han! Now it¡¯s your time to shine. Control its tentacles and I¡¯ll take care of its tail and get the secret organism!¡±


    Zhou Qiang¡¯s plan was foolproof, but it meant Chen Han would have to risk his life to control the antenna. He hesitated, knowing that certain death awaited him if he charged forward. But without doing so, their mission was pointless.


    Zhou Qiang was no doubt very similar to Sheffield in terms of his cunning and self-serving nature.


    Chen Han held the long saber in his hand and did not dare to move. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t I die if I charged up?¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you want the 5 million yuan? Don¡¯t you want to be the biggest contributor to your family?¡± Zhou Qiang reminded him.


    ¡°I do, but please make sure the money goes to my parents,¡± Chen Han replied, determined to complete the mission.


    With gritted teeth, he charged toward the monster, only to stumble and fall. Lin Yuwei fired an anesthetic needle from her crossbow, a weapon she had obtained from Simon.


    ¡°Zhou Qiang, stop whatever you¡¯re doing!¡± Bai Han looked at Zhou Qiang in front of him and said angrily. Then, he took out his staff and rushed forward, aiming at the two heads of the spider!


    Undeterred, Bai Han used the powerful Lifesteal ability of his Vampiric Void Staff, causing the surroundings to surge with energy.


    You can¡¯t kill him! He was an ant lion guard! Who knows what terrible consequences will befall you if you do!¡± warned someone, causing Bai Han to call out for Simon to bring him anaesthetic needles.


    ¡°Simon! Anaesthetic needles!¡± Bai Han roared at Simon, who was in front of him.


    As the spider¡¯s blood began to trickle out, it prepared to launch another attack with its egg and spatial weaving abilities, but Bai Han quickly called out to Simon to administer an anesthetic shot directly into the spider¡¯s head.


    With the combined effects of the life and magic absorption and the tranquilizer, the massive spider finally fell to the ground.


    When Zhou Qiang saw this, he immediately rushed forward and prepared to extract the mysterious creature from the spider¡¯s glands, but Sanderson intervened and stopped him. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it!¡±


    Sanderson immediately pounced and grabbed Zhou Qiang, who was in front of him. In the meantime, Bai Hang quickly moved behind the spider and used his dagger to cut off the thread, obtaining the sparkling, mysterious creature.


    The commotion had caused the surroundings to tremble, and a notification from the system appeared at that very moment.


    [Ding! Congratulations on completing the mission and finding the mysterious creature!]


    [New mission has been issued!]


    [Mission brief: Now you need to escape from the cave and find the real antlion guards! Destroy the real guards and obtain the ultimate creature in the mystic forest!]


    [Mission¡¯s only hint: The antlion guards are extremely cruel and ruthless. Any unit killed by the guards will permanently disappear from the real world and the mystic realm! The antlion guards have very, very smart brains. You need to grasp more clues to destroy them!]


    After reviewing the mission briefing, the group hurried back to Cave No. 3. But as they arrived, they realized that the eggs surrounding them were hatching one after another, causing the noise they heard.


    ¡°Quick, grab onto me and let¡¯s run!¡± shouted one of them.


    The six of them managed to flee from the antlions¡¯ jaws. In a series of intense battles, they defeated all dozen or so antlions chasing them. Despite their victory, they knew that many more monsters would come swarming and attacking them in this place.


    SLAP!


    ¡°Zhou Qiang, you jerk!¡± Lin Yuwei exclaimed, slapping him across the face.


    Zhou Qiang smirked at the little girl in front of him. ¡°You should know that in the real world, I could destroy your whole family with just one move. You¡¯ll pay a painful price for this slap.¡±


    After yelling at Lin Yuwei, he turned to Bai Han. ¡°You¡¯re quite strong for a brat, but my power in the real world is enough to render your strength useless. My family¡¯s influence is enough to keep you from even touching my shoes!¡±


    Bai Han held the mysterious creature tightly in his hand and said, ¡°Leave now. I know you have the power to teleport. Use it to find your own way out of here. Don¡¯t interfere with our mission, or I¡¯ll make you regret it.¡±


    As he spoke, Bai Han readied his Vampiric Void Staff and activated the Lifesteal effect. In less than three seconds, Zhou Qiang would be drained of all his life and magic.

 Chapter 17

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    [Ding! Congratulations on successfully punishing a Dark Level monster! Obtained 2000 EXP. Killed monsters above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    [Since it was only a punishment and the monster was not killed, there are no drops.]


    Lin Yuwei and Bai Han¡¯s levels had increased by more than 4000 points.


    His level instantly soared to 11!


    Zhou Qiang knew that he had been ¡°face-slapped¡± again.


    ¡°Hey! Hey! Hey! What are you all doing!¡±


    Zhou Qiang¡¯s voice was filled with anger as he rebuked Chen Han, who had just woken up. ¡°Young Master Zhou, I¡¯m sorry. I wanted to help you earlier, but I was hit by a tranquilizer dart!¡± Chen Han apologized, trying to explain.


    ¡°You do understand that you have lost the chance to earn 5 million from me!¡± Zhou Qiang exclaimed, ¡°You need to pull yourself together now. Otherwise, you won¡¯t get a single penny or any status. Your Chen family is now just a subordinate of our Zhou family. You have to obey me!¡±


    Chen Han trembled as he struggled to stand up and bowed deeply to Zhou Qiang, as if he were a dog. Bai Han attempted to help him stand, but he quickly pulled away from his grasp.


    ¡°No, absolutely not!¡± Chen Han exclaimed, surprising everyone present.


    ¡°He treated you like this, and you¡¯re still willing to be his teammate. Is it just for that small amount of money?¡± Simon shouted at Chen Han. ¡°After we get out of here, there are many other ways to make money!¡±


    ¡°Bro, you don¡¯t understand. To me, whether in this place or outside, I¡¯ve already become a monster that I can¡¯t escape from! In my eyes, everyone is a monster. Why shouldn¡¯t I seek out a monster that can assist me? I know you mean well, but I have no other option. I must bolster my confidence!¡± Chen Han replied miserably.


    Zhou Qiang continued to direct his anger towards Chen Han for failing to secure the mysterious creature, delivering what was probably the most significant blow to his ego.


    ¡°Come on, guys. Let¡¯s get out of Cave No. 1,¡± a senior-sounding voice beckoned from behind.


    Everyone quickly drew their weapons and trained them on the voice. It turned out to be the aged Ferdican resident who looked even more aged now!


    ¡°How did you become like this? We¡¯ve only been out for less than two hours,¡± Bai Han inquired with great concern.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you? ¡®As long as you acquire the so-called mythical realm organism, we will progressively age. It¡¯s a dead end for us no matter what. But I¡¯ve already come to terms with it. If I can share some secrets about this place before I die, I can die in peace,''¡± the old man explained. As he spoke, he seemed to have difficulty standing upright, and his skin aged rapidly.


    Everyone recoiled in terror.


    ¡°In the depths of Cave No. 1, there¡¯s a generator on the right. Once activated, the door will open and you can return to the Initial Mystic Realm forest from there,¡± revealed the old Ferdican resident.


    Upon hearing this, Zhou Qiang wasted no time and pulled Chen Han toward the cave¡¯s entrance.


    ¡°What kind of miserable place is this? I refuse to stay here for even one more second! Bai Han, mark my words, if you ever interfere with my plans again, you will regret it!¡± Zhou Qiang threatened before both of them vanished using their teleportation ability, leaving the others behind in Ferdican.


    ¡°Beep, beep, beep!¡±


    Suddenly, a loud sonic boom echoed through the cave. It appeared that the monsters had arrived, and all the lights in the cave illuminated at once.


    ¡°These monsters are relentless,¡± one person shouted.


    ¡°All three lights are lit, which means they¡¯ll launch their most powerful attack ever. Unfortunately, we don¡¯t have any defensive weapons, and Sheffield is dead. Despite his questionable motives, he could have provided us with a way to defend ourselves,¡± Sanderson stated in despair, accepting his fate.


    ¡°Don¡¯t forget you still have me! Perhaps you haven¡¯t seen my strength yet. I¡¯ve already defeated such a terrifying monster, so how can these small ant lions stump me?¡± Bai Han said.


    ¡°We are actually very impressed that you managed to destroy such a huge monster. However, once these small monsters form a group, you won¡¯t be able to deal with them. Previously, we actually had several teammates, but they all died under the attacks of these small monsters.


    ¡°I let them down! I was thinking that we could leave this place together with the mysterious creature and return to the real world. Then, the few of us could form a special forces team together.


    ¡°I didn¡¯t expect that not only did we fail to achieve this goal, but we were even deceived by that hateful Sheffield!¡±


    These two gunners still didn¡¯t believe in their own abilities.


    Bai Han looked at Lin Yuwei, silently communicating his plan with her. With just a glance, she understood and took out her crossbow, aiming it at the cave where the ant lion was about to enter.


    ¡°Beep, beep, beep!¡±


    The sound of the ant lions landing on the ground was like the sound of bullets falling, making everyone feel terrified and uneasy. But at that moment, at least ten antlions exploded!


    Sanderson and Simon looked at the dead antlions in the cave, then at the other cave where at least 20 antlions had been turned into pieces!


    Red numbers floated out from the corpses of nearly 40 antlions, showing the damage dealt by the attack:


    -500!


    -800!


    -1450!


    The two gunners were stunned. How could a Mage have such powerful AOE attacks? They were starting to see Bai Han in a different light.


    The True Penetration ability of the Golden Crossbow not only allowed for the direct killing of a monster but also had the potential to affect all the monsters behind it.


    Bai Han, equipped with the Vampiric Void Staff and other attack and splash damage-enhancing equipment, was like a skilled wizard slaughtering a lesser one or a predator killing its prey when faced with the antlions.


    ¡°I can¡¯t think of any other ideas. I just hope these demons will go straight to hell! I¡¯ll find the so-called antlion guard, for sure.¡±


    ¡°However, it won¡¯t be an easy task,¡± sighed Ferdican, who had lost much of his previous vigor.


    Everyone looked at him. The next mission was to eliminate the so-called guards. Other than the system notification, the only other notification was probably the old man in front of them.

 Chapter 18

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Allow me to explain in terms that you might understand better. You, humans, are familiar with the term ¡®appetizer¡¯, I believe. But if I were to tell you that what you are currently experiencing is just an appetizer, then it¡¯s not even that.¡± Despite the old man¡¯s obscure language, everyone understood that their current ordeal was nothing compared to the so-called guard. This suggested that the guard was an ultimate boss beyond their wildest imagination.


    As the old man spoke, he appeared to age rapidly and lose his vitality. ¡°Remember,¡± he continued, ¡°no matter what, once you enter¡­ Guard maze¡­ don¡¯t believe anything you see.¡± He was unable to finish his sentence before collapsing to the ground. The sight of his body withering and turning powerless was frightening to behold.


    ¡°Beep, beep, beep!¡±


    The antlions were about to launch a second wave of attacks. ¡°We need to deal with the problem here first before we can locate the guard,¡± someone said. Without any weapons at their disposal, they had no choice but to rely on brute force to fight off the monsters. There were no mines, machine guns, or grenades available to take down the creatures standing in their way.


    As Bai Han and Lin Yuwei unleashed their powerful magic attacks, the two special forces soldiers could only watch in amazement as the battle unfolded without a single bullet being fired.


    Despite their victory over the first wave of monsters, the group remained on high alert, unsure of how to defeat the monsters that stood before them. It was then that Lin Yuwei sprang into action, loading three crossbows and firing one at each of the three entrances. Her precise aim caused at least 20 to 30 monsters to fall.


    Meanwhile, Bai Han wielded the Void Staff with a simple wave, reducing countless monsters to mere powder.


    Eventually, the second wave of monsters was defeated, and the three red lights at the entrance of the cave went out, signaling their success.


    As the group took a moment to catch their breath, Bai Han noticed something peculiar about the old man who had died of old age. The man¡¯s eyes seemed to hold a bright gleam, as if he had left something behind for them to discover.


    Despite his death, the old man had kept his eyes open and tilted his head, insisting that they see his single eye. It was then that Bai Han realized that the Ferdican only had one eye, and that after death, it didn¡¯t become dilated like a normal person¡¯s eye, but instead turned black.


    ¡°Forgive me for what I¡¯m about to do next.¡± Without hesitation, Bai Han took out a dagger and plunged it directly into the man¡¯s eye.


    ¡°What are you doing? Are you crazy?¡± When Lin Yuwei saw Bai Han¡¯s actions and was about to scold him, he retrieved a shiny item that was hidden within.


    ¡°It looks like one of their iconic possessions.¡±


    [Ferdican Crystal: This is a small, crystallized object found in the bodies of all Ferdican residents, tightly bound to their crystal core. If the crystal core is removed or moved, the crystal loses its function. However, the crystals that have lost their function can be extracted from the residents¡¯ bodies and used as fuel for any substance. This is the last gift that the


    people of Ferdican leave to passersby and all players, after their short lives.


    Upon returning to the real world, unexpected gains can be achieved by possessing these crystals.]


    [Ding! Additional mission completed.]


    [Mission brief: Recover all the crystals of the Ferdican people. 1/148 left]


    Finding more than 100 of these crystallized plants would certainly be a daunting task, but the promise of unexpected gains upon returning to the real world piqued Bai Han¡¯s interest.


    He was curious about the crystals¡¯ purpose and knew that he would have to find all the residents to uncover their secrets.


    ¡°It seems that we need to find all the residents if we want to learn more about these crystals,¡± Bai Han mused.


    ¡°I know where their settlement is. Colonel Sheffield and I have been there before. However, the place has since become infested with monsters. Strangely enough, as long as the residents don¡¯t provoke the monsters, the monsters won¡¯t attack them,¡± Simon explained.


    Bai Han understood why the situation had deteriorated. This place was originally peaceful, but outside forces sowed discord between the monsters and the residents, sparking a war. When players arrived, they were unknowingly drawn into the conflict by missions that required them to obtain mysterious creatures. This continued the cycle of violence and harassment by the monsters.


    It was clear that someone was manipulating events from behind the scenes, and the secret realm was likely created by this shadowy figure. But what was their end goal? What was the significance of the crystal core?


    Recalling Zhou Qiang¡¯s previous actions, Bai Han realized that the Zhou family, with their substantial influence, likely knew more about the situation than he did. If he could escape from this place and return to the real world, he might be able to use Zhou Qiang as a source of information.


    Perhaps this encounter with Zhou Qiang, the so-called ¡°bastard,¡± was a blessing in disguise. Despite helping Zhou Qiang, Bai Han might be able to extract valuable information from him and turn the tables in his favor.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go search for the settlement you mentioned,¡± suggested Bai Han.


    Simon nodded in agreement and they made their way to Cave No. 2.


    Each cave appeared to lead to a distinct location. Cave No. 1 served as a passage to the Initial Mystic Realm forest as well as another location. According to Simon, Cave No. 4 was a dead-end with no other way out. When they first arrived at the mystic realm, they had used military shovels to dig out these four caves. Despite disrupting the ecological balance, they had also provided many residents with protection from the monster attacks.

 Chapter 19

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Be careful. There may be monster eggs hidden anywhere here!¡±


    ¡°Avoid stepping on the sand at all costs. If we step into the sand, those monsters will quickly emerge!¡± added Bai Han, pulling out information about the sand-dwelling creature known as the antlion.


    [Antlion: A sand-type creature that thrives in dry and warm sand. It will abandon dark and relatively dry caves in favor of reproducing rapidly in harsh environments. Its eggs require a very humid environment to hatch. However, once the eggs are awakened, the antlion will lose its ability to move due to the humidity and die immediately! This is why antlions possess super high speed and flying ability, which they must learn immediately after birth to quickly jump into the sand.]


    It was clear that this monster would not be easy to deal with, and given the superhuman abilities of their original bodies, it was likely that the guards protecting them were ancient creatures.


    As they walked, they arrived at a vast open area that connected in all directions. However, the scene they saw was tragic: despite the beautiful stalactites and cubicles decorating the area, it was filled with countless corpses of Ferdicans.


    Most of them had died of old age, but many had been brutally killed by the remaining monsters following the biggest riot in the history of Ferdican. When the giant spider was subdued, all its eggs had hatched, and this area was no exception.


    Looking at the countless eggshells and dents in the sand, it was evident that the monsters had completely ravaged the area. Despite their heavy hearts, the group knew they couldn¡¯t let the residents¡¯ deaths be in vain. They had to discover the purpose of the crystals and their relation to the monsters.


    [Mission Progress: 75/148]


    They quickly collected all the biological crystals from the current generation¡¯s eyes and headed toward Cave No. 1¡¯s opposite direction. However, upon returning to their original garrison base, Bai Han noticed a small detail.


    ¡°Someone has been here before us.¡±


    Everyone trembled in fear. They had only been gone for a short time, and the area appeared the same. But Bai Han pointed out the broken warning lights by the cave entrance, which no one noticed before due to the cave¡¯s darkness.


    Moreover, the damaged wires came from Cave No. 3, causing even more fear among the group. Could the giant spider they subdued have come back to life?


    Simon shared his thoughts with Bai Han, ¡°It couldn¡¯t have been the spider. The intruder is likely tall and has fewer than eight antennae.¡±


    Soon, the depression in front of Cave No. 3 and the way the wires were broken confirmed their suspicion. The depression in the ground was orderly and the footsteps were square, unlike the messy walking of spiders. The monster that had been following them had accidentally touched the electric wire and followed them all the way to Cave No. 2.


    But now that the monster had come out, it meant that it must still be in Cave No. 2. Were they going to wait for it to appear in this place? Bai Han knew they couldn¡¯t afford to wait. He remembered the last words of the system notification: the antlion guards were intelligent and would definitely play games with their prey.


    If they had deliberately stopped, the guard who was secretly observing them must have expected that they had discovered their whereabouts. At this moment, the guard would likely change its path.


    The best course of action was to head directly to the other direction of Cave No. 1. Cave No. 4 was a dead end, and if they tried to trick the guards into going there, they could get trapped.


    ¡± Let¡¯s act naturally. We¡¯ll head to Cave No. 1. ¡±


    Everyone looked at Bai Han in confusion. Weren¡¯t they waiting for the guard here to launch an ambush?


    ¡°You know, this is why the two of you are only lieutenants¡­¡±


    After making his statement, Bai Han and Lin Yuwei entered Cave No. 1 and promptly checked and prepared their ammunition, guns, and armor.


    Having recently defeated a horde of monsters, they had leveled up and gathered some equipment, a sign that they were preparing for an unprecedented boss battle or an encounter with more monsters in the confined space.


    As they studied their attribute panel and inventory, they noticed that they had gained some experience points from defeating the antlions. However, since those creatures were of lower levels than them, they did not obtain many rare items from the defeated monsters, no matter how high their Luck was.


    However, things were looking up for the two gunmen. They had obtained a lot of golden fruits and EXP bonus items. They even obtained some relatively good defensive items. As for the remaining low-level weapons and defensive equipment, they could also wait until the end of this trip to directly turn them into some weapon materials.


    As they conversed, they gradually made their way to another habitat, anticipating a continuation of their journey.


    However, something unexpected occurred as they arrived at their destination. The habitat appeared to be strangely still and desolate, with no signs of life. There were no fallen residents or any indications that they had aged and perished.


    Instead, the inhabitants seemed to have vanished without a trace.


    ¡°Simon, Sanderson, what¡¯s going on? Why is there nothing here?¡± Lin Yuwei looked at the two soldiers in front of her in confusion.


    The two soldiers seemed to be confused as well. They touched the stalactites beside them and looked at the cave beside them. It was indeed strange.

 Chapter 20

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    However, what the group was about to encounter next was beyond their wildest imagination.


    ¡°Let¡¯s search the area for any clues, but be careful not to wander too far. It¡¯s evident that the guardians have started to use their intelligence against us, which is quite clever,¡± Simon suggested. To be safe, he tied a rope around all four of them and began scouring the area for any leads.


    Unbeknownst to them, the clues they sought were right in front of their eyes, but they were too massive to notice. ¡°Simon?¡± Bai Han asked. ¡°Did you notice anything strange about this place?¡±


    Simon was taken aback by Bai Han¡¯s question because he realized that the four of them were going in different directions, yet they could still see each other. ¡°What¡¯s wrong? Isn¡¯t this just an ordinary dwelling place? It¡¯s the same as the previous one,¡± Simon responded, trying to play it cool despite sensing something was amiss.


    Although Simon suspected something, he tried his best to act natural. The Bai Han in front of him was not real; he was the most lifelike illusion yet because his voice and appearance were identical to Bai Han¡¯s. ¡°Why are you here? Why aren¡¯t you searching for clues in your own direction?¡± Simon inquired.


    ¡°What¡¯s the point? You can¡¯t call for help in this place!¡± Bai Han replied, his voice suddenly transforming into an eerie, monstrous growl. Just as Simon reached for his gun, the monster flung him back with tremendous force, sending his weapon flying.


    ¡°Be careful!¡±


    Someone rushed over and kicked the monster onto the stalactite. It became tightly stuck on the sharp point and then transformed into a puff of gas and vanished into thin air. Simon panted heavily and looked at Bai Han, questioning, ¡°What is going on?¡±


    Bai Han responded, ¡°It seems like this place has been drugged with something that causes hallucinations. Or we might have inhaled something that caused the same effect.¡± He then led Simon back to where they were before.


    ¡°This location is different from the previous one. It¡¯s too clean and quiet. It¡¯s evident that someone has deliberately set this up. The guard probably wanted to create the illusion too much and neglected the most critical clue,¡± Bai Han continued.


    Bai Han then turned around and asked Simon, ¡°How were you able to sense the illusion?¡±


    After a brief pause, Simon replied, ¡°I realized that you couldn¡¯t have turned around and come to my location that quickly and accurately. You should have been going towards your teammates, taking care of Lin Yuwei, and not have had any reason to come back and check on me.¡±


    Suddenly, Simon felt a surge of terror wash over him.


    Bai Han and Lin Yuwei were an inseparable duo. If they were separated, their abilities would weaken, and the cave¡¯s many directions made it crucial to stick together for the bonus effect. So where was Lin Yuwei?


    As he was deep in thought, he saw three people appearing at the entrance of the habitat.


    ¡°Hurry up and come over. Otherwise, you really won¡¯t be able to come out!¡± Bai Han called out to Simon from the habitat¡¯s entrance. For a moment, the surrounding air and temperature began to drop. Fear gripped everyone tightly.


    Simon turned to face the three newcomers, whose eyes had suddenly turned yellow, and whose limbs had morphed into giant tentacles that ultimately transformed into giant antlions.


    ¡°Hurry up and get in!¡± Bai Han grabbed Simon, saving him from the imminent attack. As they escaped, he waved his hand, dispersing all the monsters in the space.


    It wasn¡¯t until this moment that Simon saw the space clearly, noticing that the ground was covered with corpses and monster debris, with some areas completely destroyed. Simon couldn¡¯t believe the illusion he had just experienced; it had felt all too real.


    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± Simon asked, confused.


    Bai Han observed Simon, who was on the verge of losing his sanity, and spoke up, ¡°When we entered this place, you led the way. However, we stumbled upon countless corpses of the residents, and suddenly, monsters emerged and attacked us.


    ¡°Surprisingly, you seemed oblivious to it all and kept walking in the same direction. We had no other option but to fight and clear out the monsters before following you. When we caught up to you, you were sitting in the middle of this space, talking to the air as if in a trance. We didn¡¯t want to interrupt your illusion and waited until you snapped out of it and broke your own illusion world.¡±


    Simon¡¯s body shuddered with fear and confusion as he tried to process what happened.


    Bai Han observed Simon, who was seated on the ground, and he noticed a blue wall in front of him. He then directed his attention to the stalactites in the current habitat, which were arranged in an orderly manner like pens and chopsticks, unlike the irregular and scattered ones in the previous habitat.


    It was clear that something was attached to those stalactites.


    ¡°Yuwei, take out your bow and arrows and aim for the tips of those stalactites,¡± ordered Bai Han, his eyes fixed on the stalactites arranged in a peculiar pattern. Lin Yuwei followed the command, shooting an ordinary arrow that shattered into powder upon impact and disappeared.


    The group was then startled as the system provided an explanation for the powder.


    [Sea Edge Fragrance: This is a plant abundant in the depths of the mystic realm forest. When exposed to high or extremely low temperatures, the fruits of the plant sublimated into gas or condensed into crystals, creating a powerful illusion that varied based on the affected person¡¯s mindset. Inhaling too much of it could lead to an overlap of reality and illusion, eventually resulting in death.]


    After reading the explanation, everyone was shocked. If Simon had not discovered the illusion, he would have been a corpse by now.


    As they waited for the hallucination drug to wear off, they realized something strange. Why weren¡¯t there any monsters in previous the previous habitat?

 Chapter 21

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    Everyone pondered over this strange situation. Despite the illusions and numerous monster attacks in the previous habitat, they were able to find traces of a battle and successfully retrieve everyone¡¯s crystals. It was a mystery how they managed to do so without encountering any monsters or falling prey to the illusions.


    [Ding! Additional mission completed!]


    [Reward EXP points: 1500!]


    [Luck Points: 5]


    [Specific item reward: It will be distributed after bringing all


    the crystals back to the real world!]


    It seemed that they had to bring all the crystals into the real world in one piece. At the same time, they had to ensure that the hard-earned crystal core was brought into the real world. It was because of this that they realized that the road back to the real world was definitely very difficult!


    The pressure was on.


    They also discovered that the exploration of the depths of Cave No. 1 was not yet complete, and the passage Simon had just entered was actually a deeper secret passage.


    It seemed that the gunmen team had only provided the residents with the scent of this place and used construction tools to create the habitat.


    They had missed the mysterious passage entirely.


    The passage appeared to be high-end, with square-shaped footprints suggesting the presence of antlion guards that had followed them.


    The antlion guards had already started scheming against them after they had subdued the huge spider, but their cleverness had saved them from falling into the trap. It was clear that they still had much to learn about this dangerous world.


    ¡°Bai Han, you¡¯re amazing. We¡¯ve finally found it.¡±


    As Simon praised Bai Han for finally finding what they were searching for, Bai Han¡¯s expression turned gloomy. ¡°We still fell into his trap! But we can¡¯t avoid this trap,¡± he said.


    Lin Yuwei cowered behind Bai Han in fear and asked, ¡°What trap? Are we still in danger?¡±


    Bai Han explained, ¡°It did everything possible to exhaust our energy. By the time we find the antlion guard, it expects us to be completely drained of all strength to fight. However, it¡¯s going get a real surprise coming its way!¡±


    Bai Han then took out the Vampiric Void Staff and ate three golden fruits, boosting his strength, agility, and intelligence.


    He had also equipped himself with various protective items he had obtained from killing monsters to ensure his safety for the next few years.


    Dong! Thump! Dong!


    Suddenly, a distant sound echoed through the cave, similar to that of a pile driver or construction machinery.


    ¡°I know what this sound is!¡± Sanderson exclaimed. Simon was ecstatic to hear Sanderson finally speak up.


    ¡°In the real world, this is used as a machine for loosening the soil and piling piles. Here, it can disperse those monsters. It may not be able to kill them, but it can definitely keep them away!¡± Sanderson explained.


    The logic behind it was very simple. The antlion¡¯s favorite habitat was sand, and using the device in the sand made it shake and tremble, preventing the antlion from returning. This made it the best way to attack monsters near the pile driver, and it was the only powerful weapon the Ferdicans had in the early stages. If it worked against the antlion, it would


    surely work against the guards they were facing now.


    As everyone hurried in the direction of the voice, Bai Han suddenly shouted, ¡°Wait!¡±


    Unfortunately, it was too late, and they had already stepped onto the soft sand, causing a loud vibration.


    Boom! Boom! Boom!


    They found themselves in a completely open area with no place to hide.


    To make matters worse, there were several huge deep pits and abysses that could


    prove fatal if they fell into them.


    Realizing that they were in the ant lion¡¯s nest and being ambushed by the ant lion guards, Lin Yuwei cried out, ¡°Oh no! Everyone, run to the side of that huge pile driver!¡± It was their only weapon against the monsters.


    The antlion guards had played a trick on them!


    As they took less than three steps, a terrifying creature that looked like a divine beast crawled out from the ground.


    It had a dinosaur head, was covered in yellow scales, and had ten to twenty antennae on its lower body, with only six square antennae supporting its walk.


    Its body was decorated with countless spikes behind its head that looked like they could easily pierce through a human body.


    The guard moved at an incredibly fast speed, rushing toward them and sending the yellow sand flying like a tornado.


    ¡°Quick, dodge!¡± Bai Han shouted, and everyone quickly moved aside, causing the yellow sand in front of them to form a massive trench.


    Suddenly, a swarm of ant lions emerged from the ravine.


    Simon and Sanderson immediately opened fire with their submachine guns, but the monsters kept coming. The guard charged toward them like an enraged bull on steroids. When they turned to flee in the opposite direction, they encountered another ravine teeming with antlions, some of them even a different color.


    Clearly, this was their home base.


    As they fought off the never-ending horde of monsters, Bai Han quickly checked their attributes using the system.


    [Monster Name: Antlion Guard]


    [Health Points: 10000]


    [Attack Power: Feeler (800), Collision (One Hit Kill)]


    [Skill 1: Crazy Roar. A powerful roar can fill all the Antlions with energy and increase their attack and defense!]


    [Skill 2: Iron Hoof Charge. After activation, the Antlion Guard will charge forward for 300 yards! During this period, any unit that is on the collision line will die immediately!]


    [Skill 3: Tentacle Tracking. All the tentacles on the body can be fired as throwing weapons. Once the tentacles attack any unit, the unit will be paralyzed and suspended! Unless you pull out the antennae, you will never be able to move!]

 Chapter 22

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    [Passive Skill: The Antlion Guard possesses a robust crystal shell that can regenerate instantly at the speed of a cheetah when attacked. In case of a powerful physical attack, new tentacles will grow rapidly on the affected area. These tentacles can be used as an attack after 30 seconds. However, if the spike is destroyed within 30 seconds, the crystallized skin will stop growing.


    If the crystal is attacked by potent magical attacks, the regeneration speed will be slowed down. If the attacked part is hit by a physical attack during this period, the crystal will not regenerate.


    Moreover, the antlion guard will launch an automatic, random, and lethal attack at the caster of the spell.]


    As soon as the passive skill was revealed, everyone realized that this so-called guard was nearly invincible. They lacked powerful physical attacks, and their magic attacks would put them in the range of a terrifying killing skill. A single mistake could mean instant death. No one dared to take that risk or even use magic to attack.


    However, Bai Han noticed a fatal weakness that no one else had: the guard had not considered the power of his Vampiric Void staff. Although it seemed impossible to defeat the guard with normal attacks, with perfect teamwork from the four of them, it could be done.


    ¡°Listen up, everyone. We need perfect cooperation now!¡± Bai Han shouted.


    When he said this, the guard in front of him roared and rushed over!


    As soldiers with military ranks and special forces training, the two gunmen could easily turn around and dodge, but it was obvious that an ordinary girl like Lin Yuwei, however, struggled to avoid the attack.


    ¡°We can¡¯t work together like this. Everyone¡¯s ability is different!¡± Lin Yuwei complained.


    ¡°I know. That¡¯s why I have a presumptuous request.¡± Bai Han replied in an instant.


    Lin Yuwei gazed at Bai Han with a mix of irritation and discomfort as he looked at her in a lecherous manner. Meanwhile, the guard next to her shook his head due to the impact of a collision and readied himself for the next attack. Adding to their troubles, an endless swarm of ordinary ant lions emerged from the massive gully.


    ¡°Seriously! Mr. Bai, can you focus a little?¡±


    ¡°What do you know? They must be undergoing some relatively powerful skill awakening! Have you forgotten how the two of us got our current equipment?¡±


    Sanderson quickly understood Bai Han¡¯s statement about skill awakening and how they obtained their current equipment. In response, Bai Han and Lin Yuwei embraced each other intimately amidst the swarm of monsters.


    Previously, they had only hugged from behind or held hands, but now they could feel each other¡¯s body temperature and their eyes met.


    ¡°Hurry up and get out of the way!¡± Simon quickly warned the two people who were hugging passionately!


    ¡°Hold onto me tight!¡± Bai Han instructed Lin Yuwei as they rolled over like a warm oil tank.


    Suddenly, a familiar voice from the notification system sounded. It was a voice that they hadn¡¯t heard in a long time.


    [Ding! Ding! Congratulations! You have become more intimate with Lin Yuwei, and the enhancement effect has increased greatly!]


    [Obtain special buffs according to the buff effect! You will also receive a special protection time!]


    [Special Buff: When two people use the same type of skill at the same time, the damage effect and characteristic effect of the skill will be increased by 100%. When two people use normal attacks at the same time, if the two people¡¯s normal attacks are on the same target, the damage will be increased by 100%.]


    [Special Protection Time: When two people hug or hold hands, they will be invincible for 30 seconds! If the two of them hug face to face, the invincibility time will be doubled!]


    [Current Attribute Enhancement Effect: All attributes increased by 30%, Luck increased by 40!]


    Just by hugging each other face-to-face, Bai Han¡¯s Awakened Skill received an even stronger buff, granting him two more impressive skills. However, these skills required specific conditions to be obtained, such as attacking the same target simultaneously or hugging and holding hands at the same time, requiring perfect coordination. While their abilities were stronger, the requirements for them were also higher.


    In this critical moment, the two of them came up with a brilliant solution. ¡°Special forces, the rest is up to you! We will combine physical attacks with our skills,¡± they declared.


    Now, they could even use each other¡¯s skills to their advantage. Lin Yuwei¡¯s Magic Crossbow could be loaded with True Damage Bolts and charged up to attack, with this skill effect being attached to the Vampiric Void Staff. Meanwhile, Bai Han could use a charged-up skill to deal very high magic damage to the target. The two of them complemented each other, with Lin Yuwei¡¯s Crossbow providing Lifesteal as well.


    After a brief moment of preparation, the two of them had charged up their power. A massive magic energy ball and a fast arrow were launched toward their target simultaneously.


    ¡°Time is now! It¡¯s our only option! Otherwise, we¡¯re done for!¡±


    As they spoke, Lin Yuwei felt an overwhelming warmth spread through her body. Bai Han no longer resembled an inexperienced child; a powerful pink barrier enveloped them both, forming an invincible shield.


    At that moment, their magic attacks struck the guard simultaneously. The two waves of magical energy collided with the guard, causing it to become as furious as Godzilla. It activated all of its power and rushed toward the pair with a deafening roar.


    ¡°Roar! Roar!¡±


    The ant lion guards¡¯ speed was so fast that it was almost invisible, making it impossible to catch it.


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    The resulting impact caused a massive explosion, sending sand flying high into the sky like a tornado. The two powerful forces wreaked havoc on the antlion¡¯s nest, leaving behind a trail of antlion corpses.


    After some time had passed, there was no longer any movement around them. Simon and Sanderson were buried under rocks and sand, but they quickly found cover to hide and utilize their special forces training to tear apart the rocks and escape.


    The sight before them left them shocked. This was perhaps the true face of what they had never witnessed in their special forces training.


    ¡°Don¡¯t just stand there, attack!¡±

 Chapter 23

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    Bai Han and Lin Yuwei hugged each other tightly, and a huge crystal hole appeared in the head and front of the antlion guard in front of them!


    What was even more remarkable was the disappearance of all the sand in the surroundings, revealing countless destroyed nests. In essence, the only antlion left in the world was the massive Antlion Guard before them.


    Ordinary ant lions were no longer visible.


    Without hesitation, the duo retrieved their RPG rocket launchers, which they were hesitant to use earlier.


    ¡°We only have one missile left. Are you sure you want to do this?¡±


    ¡°Then tell me, if not now, then when? Hurry up and fire!¡±


    ¡°Boom!¡±


    With a resounding ¡°Boom!¡± each of them launched their final RPG.


    ¡°Boom!¡±


    After two loud booms, the antlion guard in front of them collapsed.


    Bai Han and Lin Yuwei quickly separated and prepared to use the last round to kill the guard.


    ¡°Hiss hiss-!¡±


    As they contemplated their next move, a familiar voice echoed in the distance. It was clear that the giant spider they had encountered earlier had not been killed, only subdued.


    ¡°Get out of the way!¡±


    With its crippled body, the spider charged toward the antlion guard as if protecting its mate. The group could see that the glands on its back were still dripping with purple blood from its core.


    ¡°Hiss-hiss-hiss-!¡±


    This was no longer the angry and sharp voice of the spider. It sounded like it was using its last strength to bid farewell to its lover. Sanderson and Simon also put down their RPG rockets, while Bai Han and Lin Yuwei also put down their magic weapons.


    ¡°What should we do now? Kill them?¡±


    ¡°We learned a strict rule of war in the army, didn¡¯t we? We must never attack anyone who has no combat power or weapons.¡±


    Simon and Sanderson, both members of Japan¡¯s special forces, were well-versed in their country¡¯s famous rules of war. One of the most important rules was to never attack individuals who had no means of fighting back or any weapons. The two monsters in front of them were clearly incapacitated and posed no threat.


    However, as they surveyed the area, it became evident that the two monsters were only responsible for guarding this particular location and they had likely not yet discovered the true antlion nest.


    To prevent any future problems, they decided that they had no choice but to destroy the nest.


    ¡°Roar ~~¡±


    ¡°Hiss ~~¡±


    The two monsters made one last sound at the same time and did not


    move again. At this time, the system also sent good news that the mission was completed.


    [Ding! Congratulations to the host for completing the mission!]


    [Mission reward has been issued!]


    [Successfully obtained Legendary skill!]


    [Legendary Skill ¨C Magical Eye: After activating the skill, you can see through any disguise, and after activating the skill, you will definitely not be confused by any illusions. This skill has a permanent passive effect. It can detect the movement of invisible units or creatures in the underground water!]


    [Successfully killed Legendary monster ¡ª Antlion Guard! Obtained 5000 EXP. Killed monsters above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    The two of them instantly gained 10,000 experience points! Their level instantly soared to Level 13! It seemed like they were about to become the most powerful mages in this place.


    Thud!


    A myriad of equipment and bonus items dropped beside the defeated monsters. Given that the two special forces soldiers had contributed to the fight, they could also make use of the spoils.


    ¡°Let¡¯s take stock of our equipment here. Your gear should be nearly depleted,¡± Bai Han suggested, turning to the soldiers. They were under no obligation to tag along with them. In fact, they could head back to the Initial Mystic Realm¡¯s forest directly.


    Since the mission rewards would be the same whether they were achieved solo or as a team, it was up to Bai Han and Lin Yuwei to decide if they wanted to team up with the soldiers. Either way, any one of them who completed the mission would mean accomplishing the mission for the entire team.


    ¡°No worries, we have Awakened Skills as well. Our firearms are basic, but the ammunition is unlimited. However, crafting advanced weapons like rocket launchers requires materials,¡± one of the soldiers added.


    As luck would have it, the soldiers soon discovered a valuable bonus item.


    [Advanced Mobile Armory: This arsenal covers the ammunition supply for all weapons. After using it once, you only need to wait for the cooldown time to resupply the next time. You can also throw any low-level firearms and ammunition fragments directly into it, reducing the cooldown time by one time.]


    It was simply a blessing for the two of them!


    As for Bai Han and Lin Yuwei, the props they received were equally impressive.


    [Mirror of Aether: Able to directly observe the surge of magic within a 1000-yard radius, effectively predicting danger ahead.]


    [Purple Vengeful Spirit Belt: When attached to the head, it can be used to cast a silencing effect when casting magic attacks. It can cause a 12-second silencing effect on any unit. It can cause a 6-second disarming effect on physical and living creatures that do not have magic attacks. The effect will be doubled according to luck value.]


    [Evil Sickle: A powerful sickle with magic attack power. The first attack of this sickle can directly lock onto the opponent. The opponent will not be able to use any skills and will turn into a small animal for 10 seconds. There is a chance to double the time effect according to luck value.]


    [Staff of Water and Fire: When attacking an enemy, you can switch between fire and ice attacks at will. This magic staff also has a powerful skill effect. After charging for three seconds, it can directly shoot fire and ice at the enemy! It will increase the area or intensity of the sweep according to the luck value.]


    Their luck had increased to 90, increasing their chances of obtaining loot. Nonetheless, luck was only a probability and bravery in battle remained their top priority.


    Their next battle lay straight ahead of them ¨C the final lair of the antlions!

 Chapter 24

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    They left the twisted jungle and the mysterious Ferdican tribe behind, which had been completely obliterated.


    Bai Han glanced at the 148 crystals in his equipment bar and vowed to bring them back to the real world no matter what the outcome of the mission was. After all, the system and the local residents had entrusted him with their last wish.


    Of course, he was also very curious. What were these crystals used for? It was obvious that there was a huge connection with the Initial Mystic Realm forest. Every encounter on this journey seemed to be significant, but the constant danger had left him with no time to contemplate.


    [The system has issued the mission.]


    [Ding! To do or not to do this mission.]


    [Mission briefing: The 300 yards ahead is the end of this mission series¡ªthe Odd-shaped Cave. Everything inside the cave is unknown. After entering the cave, the system will no longer provide any notifications. The cave is completely isolated from the outside world and the twisted forest. Killing or destroying the final core of the Ant Lion¡¯s nest will be the final destination of this series of missions. Of course, you can also choose to leave and return


    to the Initial Secret Realm Forest to wait for the next series of missions.]


    [Hint: There are no monsters in the cave, but this doesn¡¯t mean that it is very safe. A place without monsters is the most unsafe place.]


    The system notifications always seemed so vague and difficult to understand. Was there some terrifying mechanism or hidden boss lurking within this cave, a place without monsters being the most dangerous of all?


    Bai Han couldn¡¯t help but wonder. As the outline of the cave gradually appeared before them, the group began to have second thoughts about proceeding and considered returning to the Initial Mystic Realm forest to wait for the next mission. Something about the cave seemed off, as if it were unsupported by sand.


    The darkness within the cave seemed endless and different from any usual cave darkness. Normally, one could at least make out the cliff formations within the darkness, but here there was no such trace.


    The equipment in the cave was as black as charcoal, appearing like the purest black panel in the world. The cave itself was shaped like a giant maw, causing a sense of unease to settle over the group. Could this massive cave actually be a monster that would consume and digest them if they entered?


    ¡°Should we go back? We can obviously choose to do this mission or not,¡± Lin Yuwei suggested, casting a fearful glance toward the cave. The two remaining special forces soldiers readied their rocket launchers, having replenished their ammunition from the mobile arsenal.


    ¡°Let me give it a try first.¡±


    ¡°Boom!¡±


    Everyone watched in shock as the rocket disappeared into thin air without even a sound of explosion.


    ¡°It¡¯s come to this. We can¡¯t turn back now,¡± said Bai Han as he picked up the Evil Sickle and Void Staff and strode into the cave. Lin Yu followed him, equipping herself with the Battle of Water and Fire and the Crossbow, as well as additional defense and items.


    ¡°If these two young people can do it, why can¡¯t we?¡± The special forces soldiers were fired up, and the two of them took out the M249 from their armory. If anything unexpected happened, the power of this gun could kill everything.


    When they walked into the cave, it seemed to be an endless train track. The ground was very uneven, but these bumps were even arranged in a regular pattern, just like the rails of a train track.


    ¡°Be careful, there are no monsters here, but there are probably traps everywhere. Yuwei, use the Mirror of Aether to check what¡¯s ahead,¡± Bai Han instructed, remembering that they had a divine artifact that allowed them to view anything within a 1000-yard radius.


    Lin Yuwei took out the Mirror of Aether, and the four of them lined up in a row. In order not to hinder the vision of the mirror, Bai Han used the aether diameter to directly illuminate everything 1000 yards ahead!


    What they saw was terrifying: withered hands protruding from the cliffs, gripping the corpses of ant lions. The special forces soldiers fired their weapons at the hands, but it seemed to have no effect. The system didn¡¯t give any notification, confirming that this place was indeed isolated.


    In other words, this place should be the nest of those so-called antlions!


    But why was this place isolated from the world? What important secrets were hidden behind this? Bai Han examined the Mysterious Creature he had retrieved from the Antlion Guard, which turned out to be just a crystal on the feeler on the back of the Antlion Guard. He felt a strange connection between the crystal block and the crystal core, as if they were meant to be combined.


    He slowly put the two objects together and was surprised to see that they became a mirror resembling the realm of aether. It was clear that this was an item meant to strengthen the realm of aether.


    Quickly, Bai Han replaced the old mirror with the new one and activated the Realm of Aether, which now illuminated the entire odd-shaped cave.


    They could see that this place was almost a complete maze. At this moment, everyone remembered the old Ferdican¡¯s last words before he died.


    ¡°Remember, no matter what, once you enter¡­ Guard maze¡­ don¡¯t believe anything you see.¡±


    The old man¡¯s words before he died replayed in everyone¡¯s minds over and over again.

 Chapter 25

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    Initially, they believed that the interconnected cubicles within Cave No. 1 were a maze trap constructed by the Antlion Guards, and they set up traps everywhere by using illusions. Then, they assumed that the old man¡¯s warning ¡°Don¡¯t believe anything you see¡± was simply to avoid being deceived by the illusions caused by the stalactites.


    However, it seemed that they had misunderstood the old man¡¯s words. The guard maze that he mentioned was most likely their current location.


    As the system previously mentioned, there were no monsters in this place, but there were a multitude of illusions and incredible phenomena. Ahead of them were three forks, and they had to stick together. Otherwise, it was highly probable that they would never make it out of the maze alive. In fact, some of them would certainly perish in this maze.


    After Bai Han explained these principles, everyone shuddered. The two special forces soldiers had already teamed up with Bai Han and Lin Yuwei. Although they didn¡¯t have to join the team, they played an important role in the recent battle.


    There was strength in numbers, and the fire burned brighter when everyone worked together. This age-old principle would never change.


    ¡°What direction should we take?¡± asked one of them.


    ¡°It¡¯s simple. We¡¯ll just use our most important tool right now to guide us, the Absolute Attribute Dice,¡± replied Bai Han.


    They had collected over 50 of these dice from killing enemies and looting equipment. ¡°We¡¯ll each throw a dice in the middle of the fork, and follow the direction it rolls towards,¡± he continued.


    All three of them agreed with the plan, and Bai Han and Lin Yuwei¡¯s naturally high luck values meant they would get the bonus effect. The other two special forces soldiers also had some luck on their side, and all four of them threw their dice with no negative effects on their attributes.


    However, all four of their dice shifted toward the left, which surprised them.


    ¡°Why did they all shift to the left?¡±


    ¡°The right direction to go should be either forward or toward the right.¡±


    Everyone looked at Bai Han in surprise. They thought they had heard wrongly.


    ¡°The left side can attract these die in unison, which means that there should be some ventilation or an uneven atmosphere on the left.


    ¡°To put it bluntly, I suspect that that direction is not complete. There should be a leak. That¡¯s why they are tilting toward the left. Once we go over, it¡¯s very likely that the path behind will be blocked, and we won¡¯t be able to walk back.¡±


    Upon hearing Bai Han¡¯s explanation, everyone agreed to follow Bai Han¡¯s suggestion. At that moment, the die that had just been thrown was directly absorbed into the left path with a rumble!


    It was obvious that if they had just walked to the left, they would have been absorbed into the ground as well. The four of them heaved a sigh of relief and continued to walk forward. However, the scenery around them did not seem to have changed at all. As time passed, they even thought that they were walking in circles.


    ¡°Are we lost?¡±


    ¡°Let¡¯s keep in mind what that old man told us: don¡¯t trust everything we see. It seems that his words are now coming true. The scenery around us looks the same, and it¡¯s obvious that this is part of the maze¡¯s great technique. We¡¯re likely walking in a circular path, but because we can¡¯t see the maze from above, we¡¯ll feel like we¡¯re always moving forward,¡± Bai Han explained as he carefully observed the changes in their surroundings. As he walked a little further, he noticed that a particular monster held by the withered hand wasn¡¯t an antlion but a hybrid spider.


    The hybrid spider seemed to be very similar to an antlion. It was not surprising that they had gone unnoticed since they were already skeletal.


    Using his hand, he twisted the withered hand above him, and the door in front of him opened. Immediately, the group exited the circular maze path they were on.


    However, as they walked out of the maze, they discovered a straight path ahead of them. Thanks to the crystal core combined with the strengthened mirror of aether of the mysterious creature, they could see more clearly. It turned out to be a staircase leading upwards.


    The surroundings of the stairs appeared peculiar, and upon looking behind them, they saw no path. They couldn¡¯t tell whether the stairs led up or down. As always, they reminded themselves to not believe everything they saw.


    ¡°The staircase appears to be getting narrower and narrower due to visual effects, making it difficult to determine if it is going up or down. However, there is a simple solution to this puzzle. It¡¯s time for your rocket launchers to work,¡± Bai Han said.


    ¡°You mean we should blow up the stairs with a rocket launcher?¡±


    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s the easiest way out. If we climb the stairs, we may end up trapped. It¡¯s clearly a trap for us,¡± Bai Han explained.


    ¡°Do it!¡±


    Simon produced a rocket launcher and warned everyone to step back.


    ¡°This is a very powerful RPG rocket launcher. Its power can blow up the entire building. If possible, you should all lie down.¡±


    Everyone did as they were told.


    Boom!


    Clang!


    The explosion was deafening, causing the entire staircase to crumble.


    Bai Han was quick to use his sharp mind to assess the situation.


    A clear exit was revealed under the scattered stairs, but it led to the darkness beyond. It was like entering a cave, with a cold wind blowing from within.


    ¡°We¡¯ve solved the staircase puzzle. This odd-shaped cave looks interesting. It created so many illusions to trick us. Come on. Let¡¯s explore,¡± Bai Han said excitedly.


    As the stairs fell apart, the cave was revealed once again, and the unknown secrets beyond the exit beckoned to them.

 Chapter 26

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Don¡¯t move!¡±


    Just then, a warning female voice shouted from behind the door!


    Everyone quickly leaned back. If there was a person holding a pistol behind the door, they would not be able to see what was going on inside such a narrow area.


    Everyone was like live targets.


    ¡°Calm down, miss. We¡¯re here to destroy the antlions¡¯ nest, not to make you our enemy.¡±


    After Bai Han said this, he could clearly hear the sound of the shotgun being loaded!


    ¡°Squat down!¡±


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    ¡°You can¡¯t pass through here! Hurry up and leave, this place is ¡ª Ahhh!¡±


    Before the second shotgun bullet could be fired, the woman¡¯s miserable cry could be heard! Soon, the sound of a meat grinder being activated could be heard, as well as the sound of joints and meat being ground!


    The two special forces soldiers also took two steps back. They no longer had the courage to raise their rocket launchers and take the lead.


    ¡°Don¡¯t we have the Mirror of Aether¡­Why can¡¯t we see what¡¯s inside?¡±


    ¡± Obviously, although the mirror of aether is made from a crystal core and a mysterious creature core, this is the nest of the antlions after all. It¡¯s very likely that there are some absolute taboos or evil things that even they themselves can¡¯t reconcile.


    Obviously, we shouldn¡¯t blindly believe what we just heard!¡±


    As he spoke, Bai Han held his sickle and staff, and strode straight into the darkness in front of him. ¡®What was inside?¡¯ He couldn¡¯t help wondering.


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    The moment Bai Han and the others reached the door, everything behind them disappeared! The door in front of them seemed to move toward them and directly engulfed them!


    Because of the aether mirror, everything inside the door became very clear, but it was also very strange. Why was the door able to swallow them just like that?


    In front of him was a building with elevators and stairs. However, every room was open. Right beside the building¡¯s door, there seemed to be a line of words written in red blood!


    [Rules that must be followed in a mental hospital]


    [1. Do not enter any open door.]


    [2. Don¡¯t ever look out of any window in this hospital.]


    [3. There are no mirrors in this hospital!]


    The third rule was strengthened with an emphasis symbol, but soon, there was a very shallow line of marks below the three rules! It was a single line that said, ¡°Don¡¯t believe this blade!¡±


    It was obvious that someone had used up all his strength to carve the last word, but he didn¡¯t manage to complete the sentence.


    ¡°It¡¯s obvious this person died here before he could finish carving this word!¡±


    Everyone gasped again. How did that woman who yelled from behind the door die? They looked at the room closest to them. According to the direction they entered, the woman should have been holding a pistol and retreating, but she accidentally stepped into the room with the open door.


    That must be how she was killed!


    The terrifying atmosphere was spreading because almost all the wards on the entire floor were open. When they walked, they even tried their best to suppress their curiosity. If they accidentally stepped into an open room, it was very likely that they would be doomed.


    The evil rules made it impossible for anyone to relax in this place.


    However, Bai Han was not thinking about the evil rules at this moment. Instead, he was thinking about why there were so many illusions or things that did not match the nest when this was clearly the antlions¡¯ nest.


    How could an odd-shaped cave or nest end up having modern buildings or floors inside it? Could this be the guard maze that the old man was talking about?


    Of course, he also remembered the hallucination of the Sea Edge Fragrance in Cave No. 1. Were they poisoned by the hallucinating powder? Thinking of this, he quickly looked around to see if there was any white powder burning.


    Because he happened to know about this medicine. Sea Edge Fragrance powder was a white liquid. After drying, it was ground into powder and burned at high temperatures or frozen at low temperatures. As long as the burning smoke or ice crystals were inhaled, it


    would cause hallucinations.


    In the first cave, it was because of the low temperature that the Sea Edge Fragrance had frozen, causing Simon to hallucinate.


    But soon, he saw something that gave him goosebumps! In a certain room, he saw a mirror that reflected his dark side! His thoughts were reflected in the mirror, making him look like a demon.


    He tried his best not to look in the mirror.


    It was at this moment that he suddenly thought of a very important thing. If there were no mirrors in this hospital, it meant that they were not mirrors at all. Then what was the terrifying mirror-like image of himself?


    ¡°I think there¡¯s only one place that¡¯s safe and definitely not a place where we need to be so careful.¡±


    Everyone looked at Bai Han, waiting to hear his elaboration.


    ¡°Every hospital has a basement, and when I came up, I saw that the basement was pitch black. If we take the Mirror of Aether there, we might be able to light it up. The Mirror of Aether can only light up all the items in a world of one level.


    However, there¡¯s no way to ensure everything there is of the same level.¡±


    As they spoke, they had already arrived at the dark basement.


    ¡°That¡¯s too risky. If there¡¯s a room that¡¯s not closed, we¡¯ll be breaking the rules! ¡±


    ¡°Have you forgotten the mark we saw? It tells us not to believe everything, so we have to trust our own brains and not believe in these so-called evil rules.¡±


    Lin Yuwei trembled and hid under Bai Han¡¯s cloak. The other two special forces soldiers supported each other and walked forward.


    When Bai Han took the Mirror of Aether and walked down, they finally heaved a sigh of relief. The door to the basement was tightly shut, but it seemed to be unlocked.


    Bai Han used his hand to twist the doorknob, and the door was gently opened. However, he quickly saw what was behind the door through the tiny gap.


    ¡°Everyone, get ready. Looks like this is the place we are looking for¡­¡±


    ¡°Hold your breath.¡±


    The moment the door was opened, countless bullets and arrows poured out!


    The terrifying scene that followed gave them the fright of their lives!


    In front of them was a creature without a head, with a book in place of its head. The sight of it made them feel breathless and suffocated. After enduring numerous attacks and writhing in pain, it disappeared into thin air!

 Chapter 27

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    Everyone hurriedly took a few deep breaths. The moment this creature appeared, everyone felt as if a huge stone had piled up on their chests, making it impossible for them to breathe.


    ¡°Given this monster¡¯s ability to stop our heart and lung function, we must kill it from a distance to avoid being immobilized and left to die,¡± Bai Han declared, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. ¡°That book is truly deadly.¡±


    The corridor in the basement seemed to be very far away. Although they had the Mirror of Aether with them, the surrounding walls were still dark, making everything even stranger.


    ¡°My heart hurts!¡±


    Lin Yuwei quickly covered her heart. Everyone quickly stopped. Bai Han quickly hugged Lin Yuwei tightly.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be afraid, don¡¯t be afraid. Breathe slowly now. The deadly book must be nearby! ¡±


    After comforting Lin Yuwei, her heart finally calmed down. It seemed that there were no deadly books nearby, but Lin Yuwei was just too nervous.


    Finally, they came upon two forks at the end. Both sides were dead ends, but there were very eye-catching words written on both sides.


    [Congratulations on discovering the hidden rule.]


    [As long as you eliminate the deadly book hiding in the darkness in this building and kill the doctor who created all these illusions, you can leave this strange hospital!]


    There was also a very deep knife mark on this rule, which seemed to have been left on purpose.


    However, the rules on the other side were completely opposite.


    [All the monsters here are not real! This is the true inner world of a certain person. From the moment you entered the cave, you were already chosen. Everything you experienced in this place was a true reflection of your inner world, or an illusion reflected by your inner world.


    However, if you find someone with a book in their head, you must not kill them casually. You must do everything you can to see the words in the book! Also, you must not violate the hospital¡¯s rules!]


    Which one was the truth? If they didn¡¯t kill the deadly book, the players would feel their hearts thump and find it difficult to breathe if they got close to the deadly book. They had to kill the book from a distance, but if they did that, they wouldn¡¯t get to read the words in the book.


    This was a true conundrum. How could they read the contents of the book from a distance?


    At this moment, Bai Han thought of a very important point.


    ¡°It looks like the player who left us the hint didn¡¯t mean to say that we shouldn¡¯t believe everything. What the player wanted to say was that we shouldn¡¯t believe in the BLADE MARK. ¡®MARK¡¯ is the word the person didn¡¯t manage to finish carving on the wall!¡±


    Everyone suddenly came to a realization. There was a very clear blade mark on the hidden rule on the other side, and there was only one mark.


    Just as they were thinking about this, a faint voice came from behind them!


    ¡°Huff ~ Huff ~¡±


    It sounded like a man walking, but it also sounded like the sound of a book flipping.


    It was obvious! The hidden rule was indeed fake. If they had stayed there for too long, the Deadly Book would have appeared in front of them and rendered them immobile. If it weren¡¯t for the hint at the entrance, they would have been corpses by now!


    ¡°Hold your breath!¡± Simon suddenly said.


    Everyone looked at him. Although they didn¡¯t know if what he suggested was the right move, they could only believe this experienced special forces soldier. After all, special forces soldiers had been trained to dive and hold their breath. This kind of situation often happened on the battlefield, so his words were still credible.


    Soon, everyone did as they were told, and they really felt that the pressure on their hearts had decreased.


    At the same time, Bai Han used the Mirror of Aether to see the words written on the book!


    ¡°REALITY¡±


    The meaning of this word was obviously the truth, so he definitely could not kill it. He had to find a way to stop it and not let it take another step forward!


    ¡°I got it. It seems like this evil sickle is only useful now!¡±


    Bai Han took out his evil sickle and threw it in the direction of the Deadly Book. The moment it was thrown, the Deadly Book turned into a small animal.


    Everyone immediately felt a lot more relaxed, but there was no need to worry about this now. The book fell directly to the ground, and everyone quickly ran over to pick it up and ran toward the stairs on the first floor!


    Because of his luck value, the Deadly Book remained as a small animal for a good whole 20 seconds.


    When everyone returned to the first floor with the book, they were all panting heavily. This monster was really too terrifying. However, when they recalled the words written on the wall just now, they realized that the world here was either a fantasy world of one of them or a virtual world that was transformed from the real world.


    To put it bluntly, the world they were in now was a reflection of someone¡¯s thoughts.


    ¡®Whose thoughts could it be?¡¯ Bai Han pondered deeply, trying to uncover the identity of the person whose thoughts had affected them all. He traced their journey since they first entered the enigmatic Odd-Shaped Cave, where they had encountered a daunting maze. However, they had managed to navigate it accurately, indicating that this individual had a singular focus, always looking ahead without getting distracted by what was on either side.


    But as they ascended the narrow staircase, this person must have faced an obstacle that forced them to reassess their direction, leading to a constriction of their mental state, and increasing pressure on their psyche.


    The act of breaking through the floor revealed the true path, and with it, the individual¡¯s mind expanded, just like the opening of doors in a mental hospital. Whereas before, their approach had been one of tunnel vision, now their mind was brimming with innovative ideas.


    As a rational person, Bai Han knew that he was not capable of such extreme thoughts and psychological reactions.


    On the other hand, Lin Yuwei was known for her insecurity and her need for constant support. If it had been her, all the doors in the hospital would have been locked tight, and she would not have been able to broaden her mind in such a way.


    Besides, if it were Lin Yuwei who had been leading the way from the beginning, everyone would have noticed a conveyor belt-like movement, as she would never take a step without reassurance.

 Chapter 28

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    It appeared that they needed to search for clues again, so they hurriedly examined the book with the word ¡°reality.¡±


    ¡°We have to find a quiet place or a safe place to watch silently.¡± As they scanned the pages, they realized that they needed to find a peaceful or secure location to read and reflect.


    They knew they couldn¡¯t enter any rooms because it could be a trap, violating the evil rule set by the building¡¯s architect. They couldn¡¯t help but admire the mastermind behind the design, wondering who could have such extreme thoughts.


    Was it Simon or Sanderson?


    The book only contained five pages, each depicting seemingly unrelated images. However, upon seeing them, Simon suddenly felt dizzy and began to step backward.


    Sanderson quickly asked him what was wrong, noticing the drastic change in his expression. ¡°Riley! Riley! Simon Riley, answer me! What¡¯s going on?¡±


    ¡°Leave him be! It is obvious that the five pictures in this book are definitely items that he is very familiar with, or rather, information that can immediately awaken his memory!¡±


    Sanderson quickly looked at the five pictures.


    The first depicted a massive whip, likely used for punishment by many families. The second showcased an eye-catching M4 assault rifle. The third was a gruesome tooth that had been yanked out of someone¡¯s mouth. The fourth showed a medal with the number ¡°141¡± engraved on it. The fifth and final picture displayed a .44 Magnum pistol.


    Upon seeing the last image, Bai Han recalled Sheffield and the gun he had wielded. The pictures hinted at an unusual and unsettling past, which seemed to relate to Sheffield in some way.


    Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom!


    At this moment, the entire floor suddenly began to shake! They felt that the gate was collapsing, and everyone started to run upstairs!


    ¡°Damn it!¡±


    Simon suddenly shouted at the people in front of him. Then, his body seemed to be controlled by something. He picked up the gun in his hand and mercilessly fired at the people in front of him.


    ¡°Henricus, I remember now!¡±


    Bai Han and Lin Yuwei looked at the two brothers in front of them and did not know what to say. They could not go forward to save them. Even if they consumed the Golden Body Fruit,


    they could not save the brothers since it only benefited the person who consumed it.


    ¡°Hurry, we must find a way to save them!¡± Lin Yuwei urged.


    ¡°We are powerless here. This illusory world is a reflection of Simon Riley¡¯s heart, and we have no means to rescue him. We can only hope for his redemption, or it¡¯s possible that he¡¯s already dead and only the illusion remains,¡± Bai Han explained, feeling helpless.


    They watched in despair as the two special forces soldiers fell into the abyss. They grabbed the book and quickly made their way up to the fourth floor, determined to find a way to escape on their own. Understanding the meaning behind the five image patterns was crucial to their survival.


    The moment they reached the fourth floor, everything below stopped.


    However, there was only one room on the fourth floor, and the room was most probably the attic of this building, which might hold the truth they sought. However, it could also harbor greater danger.


    ¡°We need to draw out all the secrets of this distorted Initial Mystic Realm forest. The two special forces soldiers we encountered might be able to help us. The person who created these virtual worlds is not a simple individual. He¡¯s manipulating everything behind the scenes and chose Simon, who is fragile and inexperienced, as the carrier of this fictional world. The reason behind this will provide us with the final answer to our puzzle,¡± Bai Han said.


    With that, they took each other¡¯s hands and kicked open the door of the attic.


    ¡°Surrender now! You¡¯re exploiting the weak spot of a special forces soldier! Creating a world to make him suffer even more is inhumane!¡± Lin Yuwei shouted, confronting whoever was behind this twisted game.


    Bai Han had a hunch about what was going on, so he decided to confront the mastermind. However, as he looked around, he realized that the ground was littered with EXP, bonus items, golden fruits, and other useful items like magic recovery items and durability materials for their weapons.


    ¡°You guys are impressive, but if you want to uncover the truth, you¡¯ll have to kill me or go down there and find out for yourselves!¡± The mastermind quickly gathered all the props and prepared for the upcoming battle.


    ¡°Grab onto me tightly, we can¡¯t let go!¡± As the surroundings began to shake and crumble, the only things left were the five patterns revolving around them. Bai Han wondered about the pain Simon Riley experienced and why he wanted to subject everyone to it, to the extent that he immersed himself in the pain he created.


    [Ding! Congratulations, you have unlocked the hidden level.]


    [You can choose to accept this mission or not. This is an option.]


    [If you choose not to do it, you can leave directly through the door behind you and return to the Initial Mystic Forest to carry out the regular mission. However, you will miss all the truth about the Mystic Forest!]


    [If you choose to accept the mission, please walk straight to one of the five patterns. Only one of the five patterns corresponds to the final truth. If you choose wrongly, you will experience an even more painful battle and be required to make another choice.]


    The system¡¯s voice rang out, signaling that they had left the supposed Odd-shaped Cave. But, it dawned on them that the Odd-shaped Cave might not have existed at all.


    They could have entered Simon Riley¡¯s fictional world the moment they stepped into the Twisted Jungle. These were all mere speculations, yet Bai Han firmly believed that he wouldn¡¯t follow Chen Han and Zhou Qiang¡¯s path of leveling up by simply clearing the game.


    He was a fighter at heart, and he believed that only those who loved to fight could emerge victorious.

 Chapter 29

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Out of the five patterns, only one seems out of place ¨C the medal with the number 141 inscribed on it. The two guns are firearms, and the whip is also a very powerful melee weapon. As for the row of teeth, if the teeth are sharp enough, they can also be used as a killing weapon. Unlike the other four patterns that can be considered weapons, this medal cannot be used as a weapon,¡± Bai Han explained, analyzing the patterns in front of them.


    As they discussed, the two of them approached the emblem with the number 141 on it. Suddenly, an image appeared in front of them, revealing a familiar scene.


    ¡°Get up, get up, we¡¯re about to succeed!¡± Simon¡¯s voice rang out, and the scene unfolded with Sanderson and Simon slowly approaching a rescuing officer, seeming to have just escaped a battle. The officer that had come to rescue them was none other than¡­ Sheffield!


    ¡°Did you get the key clue?¡±


    ¡°Yes, sir!¡±


    ¡°Great, this side is over!¡±


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    ¡°NO¡ª¡ª!¡±


    As the unexpected gunshot rang out, Sheffield shot Sanderson in cold blood, without giving him a chance to react. Simon was shocked and cried out, realizing that he had been betrayed by his own commander. Their lifeless bodies were then callously discarded into a blazing pit, consumed by the flames.


    Finally, it dawned on Bai Han and Lin Yuwei that Simon and Sanderson had met their tragic fate.


    ¡°Ah!¡± Lin Yuwei¡¯s sudden scream caught Bai Han¡¯s attention, and as they watched in horror, the characters in the movie transformed into eerie skeletons. The skeletal remains gradually combined to form a massive, bloodied head that quickly engulfed the surrounding darkness.


    ¡°Hiss hiss-!¡±


    The huge skeleton slowly flattened, and eight tentacles grew out from the skull! A terrifying woman with a face covered in blood and broken limbs gradually appeared on top of the skull.


    This might be the ultimate BOSS!


    [Warning! Discovered hidden ultimate boss!]


    [Boss: Ultimate Weaver¨CAlex]


    [Class: Witch]


    [Level: 30]


    [Health Points: 35000]


    [Attack Power: 10000 (Physical), 18000 (Magic)]


    [Special Skill 1: Nightmare Weaving! Those with weak minds will be thrown into the most terrifying nightmare. If they can¡¯t resist this powerful force, they will be resurrected in the nightmare endlessly until their minds collapse!]


    [Special Skill 2: Heart-draining Halo! This skill has a passive effect. As long as you are within 500 yards of the boss, your heart will gradually stop beating! Reduces beating rate by 0.1%. The active effect is to stop the heart of any unit for 10 seconds!]


    [Special Skill 3: Descent of Terror! The skill had a passive effect. Any unit within 500 yards of the boss would have their magic and physical defense reduced to zero! Active effect. After this skill is activated, all 15 evil spirits in the boss¡¯s body will be released. Any unit that comes into contact with the evil spirits will be haunted by nightmares. Inflicts 3 seconds of inability to attack and move. If you attempt to awaken it, the awakened person will fall into the same effect!]


    Just by looking at these skills, the terrifying attack power, and the boss¡¯s HP, they knew that this was definitely a terrifying monster unlike anything that they¡¯d come across so far.


    ¡°Damn it, she¡¯s unbelievably abnormal! But we can¡¯t afford to let her live. We need to uncover the secrets of this mystic realm forest!¡± Bai Han ground his teeth as he gazed at the monster standing 500 yards away. He knew that if he got any closer, he¡¯d be dead within seconds.


    The witch chuckled, seemingly amused by their predicament. They had no choice but to confront her. If they failed to eliminate this terrifying witch, the zombies lurking in the forest would never let them leave. They could very well perish in this illusory woodland.


    Despite launching numerous attacks, ranging from conventional crossbow bolts to cursed scythes, nothing seemed to faze the boss monster. Even the wounds they inflicted on her appeared to be insignificant and superficial.


    -10


    -5


    -17


    If they continued like this, who knew how long it would take to defeat the terrifying monster? Their magic and crossbows were limited when attacking from a distance.


    ¡°Let¡¯s try to find a way to go back to the previous level of the mystic realm forest. Maybe we can clear it and achieve our goal,¡± suggested Bai Han.


    ¡°Do you want to follow in the footsteps of Zhou Qiang and Chen Han?¡± Lin Yuwei asked. ¡°If we use the conventional method, the witch will surely try to obstruct us halfway. We may never discover the truth about this mystic forest, and we won¡¯t be able to clear the dungeon in the usual way. We might have another chance here.¡±


    Bai Han and Lin Yuwei exchanged a look. They knew there was only one way to improve their combat strength: they had to make an exception.


    ¡°I hope this won¡¯t be a waste of our time,¡± said Bai Han.


    As they spoke, their lips met in a fiery kiss. In this dark world, their bodies began to heat up. They embraced each other, kissing passionately like a couple in love.


    ¡°Well? Can you feel my passion?¡± Lin Yuwei asked, breaking the kiss.


    ¡°I won¡¯t let you down. We can¡¯t be separated,¡± Bai Han replied. ¡°Heartless people never achieve good results, and I¡¯m not a heartless person.¡±


    [Ding! Ding! Ding!]


    [Intimate Contact authentication successful! Advanced Intimate Contact detected!]


    [Acquired Super Body Skill: Divine Destruction Slash! When the two people¡¯s heart power signals fully connect, they can launch a powerful God-Destroying Slash toward the central target! This attack can penetrate all defenses and deal 80% damage to the enemy!]


    [Acquired Invincible Body: When the two people maintain intimate contact for at least one minute, they both become invincible! This state of invincibility lasts for three minutes!]


    [Unlocked Ultimate Evolution: When the distance between the two of them is less than 5 meters, they can trigger the Ultimate Evolution! This increases their current level and attributes by up to five times!]


    [Current effect: All attributes increased by 200%! Luck value: 558!]


    This was undoubtedly the most powerful buff they had achieved up to date. With this, the enormous witch in front of them was now at their level! It was time for the final showdown.

 Chapter 30

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    [Ding! Advanced Intimate Contact has been determined!]


    [Replicating talent!]


    [Lin Yuwei¡¯s talent, Spell Precision, has been replicated!]


    [Spell Precision: While focused on battle and casting spells, the unit becomes immune to magic and receives a 50% increase in physical defense. Once the spell is cast, it will always hit the target with 100% accuracy, provided that the defense isn¡¯t broken during casting. Additionally, if the target¡¯s HP is below 50%, the spell will cause a crippling effect.]


    Bai Han received excellent news from his system once again ¨C all of his skills and spells could ignore accuracy when he was focused in battle. With the absolute special buff, they were confident that they could defeat the huge witch in front of them.


    ¡°Let¡¯s do this,¡± Lin Yuwei said, taking Bai Han¡¯s hand and facing the witch.


    ¡°I despise human emotions the most! Human feelings can only lead to betrayal! Go to hell!¡± the witch declared, her face contorting in anger.


    Suddenly, black blood gushed from her eyes and surrounded the two of them, but their invincible body had already taken shape. The black blood magic attacks continued to assail them, but they remained unscathed.


    ¡°I believe in you!¡± Bai Han said to Lin Yuwei, and she replied, ¡°Me too!¡±


    The two of them telepathically shared their belief in each other. Suddenly, a brilliant white light erupted from amidst the black waves and struck the witch¡¯s body at lightning speed. The impact was so intense that it shook the very ground beneath their feet.


    [God Destroying Slash successful!]


    [God Destroyer is reloading!]


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    The witch¡¯s body split apart with a thunderous sound. The skull under the witch exploded, and the shards turned into a huge python¡¯s skin and wrapped around the entire witch.


    ¡°Anyone who sees me like this will die!¡± The witch¡¯s voice echoed.


    [Ding! Alex¡¯s first form has ended!]


    [The second form has been formed!]


    [Hint: Snake skin cannot be penetrated by magic attacks!]


    It appeared that using Divine Extinguisher to attack was not an option, but physical attacks seemed to be effective against the witch¡¯s snake form.


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you how to gut a snake! Target its weakness ¨C 7 inches below its head! She¡¯s at her limit!¡±


    With precision, Bai Han aimed his Evil Scythe at the giant python¡¯s and struck its weakness.


    Suddenly, a black aura burst from the snake¡¯s head and enveloped them.


    ¡°This is not good! I must strengthen my will! The monster is using Nightmare Weaving!¡±


    But before Bai Han could do anything, Lin Yuwei was already trapped in a nightmare, clutching her head and groaning in pain.


    ¡°Yuwei!¡±


    ¡°No, I can¡¯t! Please don¡¯t leave me!¡±


    Lin Yuwei was already lost in her own mind, lost in a nightmare.


    ¡°You bastard, I¡¯ll show you the power of love!¡±


    As he spoke, Bai Han gripped his Void Staff tightly, using it to hold his breath and reduce the effect of the Heart-draining Halo. He was grateful to Simon for teaching him this technique, without which he might not have known what to do in this situation.


    ¡°Dad! Mother! Don¡¯t go!¡± Lin Yuwei¡¯s eyes were clouded over, as if she was trapped in an illusion. No one knew what she was seeing. She had fallen into a nightmare woven by Alex, and if Bai Han couldn¡¯t save her in time, she would become a living dead, even if she didn¡¯t physically die.


    ¡°Dad! Mother! Don¡¯t go! You¡­ They¡­ Don¡¯t go!¡± Her voice began to deepen and become distorted, filling the air with a terrifying ancient voice that sent shivers down Bai Han¡¯s spine.


    ¡°Suck!¡± Bai Han raised his Void Staff, and the darkness in front of him began to be drawn into it.


    ¡°Let the nightmare of fear take over everything! Your parents will never want you! Hahaha!¡± The witch¡¯s voice echoed through the darkness that enveloped the entire area.


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you the power of precision!¡± exclaimed Bai Han confidently.


    With a whooshing sound, the Evil Scythe charged straight at the python¡¯s weakness.


    ¡°Ah! You bastard! Even if you kill me, you won¡¯t avenge Simon!¡± yelled the witch in pain.


    As the scythe hit the python¡¯s weak point, the magic energy of the giant witch decreased, and the nightmare surrounding them instantly dissipated. Lin Yuwei gradually calmed down, but what had she experienced? Why did her parents abandon her? It was obvious that the sound she made was of someone in extreme pain.


    What secret did this girl harbor?


    Furthermore, the witch had claimed that even if Bai Han killed her, he wouldn¡¯t avenge Simon! Did Simon have some kind of connection with the witch?


    ¡°Surrender! You have nothing else left to use!¡± Bai Han demanded.


    The effect of the Evil Scythe was quickly displayed as the snakeskin in front of him was swiftly cut off along with the sickle. The pain caused the witch wrapped in the snakeskin to groan in agony.


    ¡°I don¡¯t care what you¡¯re hiding. It¡¯s obvious that your plan is foolish,¡± Bai Han declared.


    The witch, who had fallen from the snakeskin, lay on the ground and seemed to be unable to stand up.


    ¡°Do you think you¡¯ve won? Let me tell you, this isn¡¯t the end! All I want is to be with my husband in this place! Did I do something wrong? Everything was originally beautiful. It was you who led him to know the truth step by step, making it impossible for him to exist in this mystical realm forever. You are the main culprits who destroyed our love!¡±


    The witch¡¯s words echoed in Bai Han¡¯s mind as she suddenly transformed into a pile of dark blood that began to spread like a raging sea, consuming everything in its path.


    [Ding! Alex¡¯s second form is complete!]


    [The final form has been formed!]


    [Hint: In its final form, conventional weapons and magic are ineffective. You must find its only weakness to defeat Alex, after which the Twisted Jungle, Ferdican, and the Ant Lion¡¯s Lair will be destroyed. Only conventional methods can clear the Initial Mystic Forest dungeon quest.]


    With Lin Yuwei unconscious in his arms, Bai Han knew he had to find a way to defeat Alex and clear the game alone. He didn¡¯t care about being the first person to clear this dungeon; all he wanted was to get Lin Yuwei out of this cursed place.

 Chapter 31

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Your husband has already died in the war due to his betrayal. What¡¯s the point of staying here and watching him endlessly? Shouldn¡¯t you live on in his place?¡± Bai Han said to the weakened witch in front of him.


    He remembered noticing a bright reflective spot on Simon Riley¡¯s body in the movie that had just played, which turned out to be their wedding diamond ring. Bai Han realized that this was the only thing that wouldn¡¯t be left behind in the sea of blood.


    ¡°I believe you have witnessed the power of our love. It wasn¡¯t our magic or abilities that made us strong, but our love. We defeated your evil power using the power of our love,¡± Bai Han spoke to the witch.


    ¡°Mrs. Alex Riley, I¡¯m very sorry.¡±


    As he spoke, Bai Han used both hands to fiercely remove the wedding ring that was imprisoned in that place.


    ¡°You will regret this!¡± the witch threatened as he took off their wedding rings.


    The moment he took off their wedding rings, all the blood around them disappeared. Then, everything behind them began to slowly collapse!


    Where was the antlion¡¯s nest? Everything was dark!


    As they ran for an unknown period of time, Bai Han remembered the old man¡¯s words, ¡°Don¡¯t believe everything.¡± He realized that the old man¡¯s identity was not ordinary and that everything surrounding the Ferdicans was a mystery.


    Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, the light of the secret forest shone on them. Bai Han put down Lin Yuwei, who was in his arms, and stood quietly, lost in thought.


    When he checked his inventory, he was surprised to see that the items in it had changed.


    [Identity Badge 148/148]


    [141 Special Forces Medal Fragment 2/2]


    It was apparent that these items were Simon¡¯s mementos. The Ferdicans were undoubtedly his companions in the fantasy world, and the so-called antlions were the result of their continuous battles and Sheffield¡¯s betrayal.


    However, Bai Han and Lin Yuwei¡¯s involvement changed everything, leading to the current situation. It was highly probable that Sheffield planned to lure them into Cave No. 3, seize the so-called core, and then kill them.


    Afterward, everything would have reset, and the cycle would begin anew.


    This was precisely what Alex desired. She yearned to keep watching over her husband and did not want her created dream to shatter so easily. It became apparent that they had entered Alex¡¯s dream right from the start, as seen with the erroneous hybrid spider.


    [Ding! Congratulations on becoming the first in the world to clear this dungeon!]


    [You have successfully killed Alex, the Weaver of the Mystic Realm Forest!]


    [Mission Reward: 15000 EXP! Killed monsters above your level. Obtained double EXP! Attack permanently increased by 100%! Defense permanently increased by 100%!]


    ¡°Bang!¡±


    Countless pieces of good equipment dropped after they had killed the final hidden BOSS. However, at this time, Bai Han was not in the mood to look at them and could only pick them up in one piece.


    [Golden Eternal Fruit x10: After eating it, you will receive 3 minutes of Super Body Time! All attributes increased by 3 times of current level! Cannot be used with Death Resuscitate Fruit!]


    [Mobile Magic Library: After deploying the Magic Library, all party players in the vicinity will receive 20% mana recovery per second. However, the Magic Library has HP and will be destroyed when attacked.]


    [Death Revival Fruit x5: After consumption, immune to death for 3 minutes. Health points will be reduced to 10% at most. Cannot be used together with Golden Eternal Fruit!]


    [Abyssal Blade: An upgraded version of the Evil Scythe. Not only does it have all the attributes and skills of the Evil Scythe, but it also has the Stunning and Silence effects. The first attack can choose to use witchcraft or Silence. The Stunning effect can be actively released or passively released. The passive release rate is 12%. The passive release rate is affected by luck value.]


    [Advanced Golden Cloth Armor: Increases magic defense by 50%, physical defense by 30%, and has a permanent skill, Spell Gift. It can negate a directional magic attack and recover 40% of mana and mana. Cooldown time is 2 minutes.]


    Lin Yuwei gradually regained her strength as they made their way back to the Initial Mystic Realm Forest. They got 30,000 experience points, and Bai Han had reached Level 17!


    ¡°D-Did you guys cheat?!¡±


    ¡°Oh my god! Don¡¯t tell me they¡¯re spending money!¡±


    ¡°Big boss, big boss!¡±


    It was the same batch of people who entered the Initial Mystic Realm together with them. They were stunned to see Bai Han decked out in gorgeous equipment with a level far beyond anyone else¡¯s. Everyone else was still at level three or four.


    This was abnormal. Even if they couldn¡¯t level up quickly, they should still be making progress. It was obvious that the traditional method of clearing levels still existed, but there was no sign of the distorted illusory world or hidden levels.


    Suddenly, Chen Han and Zhou Qiang entered Bai Han¡¯s sight.


    Upon questioning, he discovered that Zhou Qiang had been using his power to bully others. He had used his real-life influence to intimidate others and claim all the bonus items dropped by monsters for himself.


    ¡°What a despicable person! Don¡¯t worry, everyone. I¡¯ll make sure he learns what justice is!¡±


    Bai Han exclaimed as he followed the directions of the other players and approached the two individuals who were happily farming monsters. The pair was currently battling a strengthened python, which Bai Han found to be no match for him.


    ¡°Whoosh!¡±


    With a swift throw of his poisoned dagger, Bai Han landed a critical blow on the python¡¯s weakest point.


    ¡°Roar!¡± The python let out a loud cry before falling to the ground, lifeless.


    -3457


    [Enhanced Python killed. Gained 15 EXP.]


    Zhou Qiang turned around and locked eyes with Bai Han, his gaze filled with killing intent. Despite this, there was only a level 10 above his head. If they were to engage in a fight, it would be like hitting a rock with an egg. He left with only one threat. ¡°You have provoked the wrong person! I¡¯ll make sure you never see the light of dawn again!¡±


    With that, he grabbed Chen Han, who looked exhausted, and left the mystic realm.


    ¡°We should leave too,¡± Bai Han said to his team.


    ¡°Will we meet again in the future?¡±


    ¡°Of course, we will. We will only get stronger if we stick together, right?¡±


    ¡°Thank you, Bai Han!¡±


    As they spoke, their bodies glowed brightly and they left the Initial Secret Realm Forest.


    [Ding! Welcome back. Please check your current attributes and organize your equipment information!]


    It was evident that Bai Han had acquired more equipment and had leveled up in the secret forest. He needed to review his current situation.


    However, he was unaware that danger was slowly approaching him.

 Chapter 32

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    [Name: Bai Han]


    [Class: Priest]


    [Level: 17 (57488/80000)]


    [Constitution: 5422]


    [Spirit: 7566]


    [Strength: 5,689]


    [Intelligence: 11,056]


    [Agility: 7568]


    [Health Points: 15,477]


    [Mana: 36,544]


    [Weapons and Equipment: Basic Staff, Poison-dipped Dagger, Void Staff, Evil Scythe, Abyssal Blade, Sword Blade (Warrior)]


    [Defensive Equipment: Anti-magic Cloth Armor, Anti-magic Cloak, Advanced Golden Cloth Armor, Advanced Wrist Guard x25, Advanced Kneepad x30, Universal Cloth Armor Repair Piece x150.]


    [Universal Items: Golden Body Fruit (Agility) x12, Golden Body Fruit (Intelligence) x25, Golden Body Fruit (Strength) x10, Golden Body Permanent Fruit x10, Death Resurrection Fruit x5, Mobile Magic Warehouse (Durability 500)]


    Bai Han was aware that he had reached an unbeatable position, yet a sense of unease crept into his heart as he remembered Zhou Qiang¡¯s power in the real world. He knew that Zhou Qiang would not let the matter go and would make every effort to track him down, potentially even resorting to violence.


    Despite being aware of Zhou Qiang¡¯s true character, Bai Han believed that he lacked the strength to harm him and relied solely on his family background to intimidate others. Meanwhile, Bai Han was greeted with an influx of messages congratulating him on becoming the world¡¯s first to clear the game, which he quickly perused on the public screen.


    [Attention all players!]


    [Congratulations to Bai Han, who is a Priest, for becoming the first person in the world to clear the Mystic Forest dungeon!]


    [I hope that everyone will continue to work hard and create a better tomorrow for this world!]


    [I also hope that everyone can achieve their dreams!]


    ¡°Amazing! Guru, can you take me with you?¡±


    ¡°I can¡¯t believe it, someone has already cleared it and I¡¯m only at level five!¡±


    ¡°Seems like there are always people better than me who keep pushing themselves. Is it even worth it for me to try?¡±


    The public chat kept scrolling, but then Bai Han saw a message with golden edges that stood out. It was written in a threatening tone. ¡°Bai Han! Remember, our blood feud will never end! I will make you pay!¡±


    ¡°It seems like you¡¯re angry because you can¡¯t beat him. You don¡¯t know how to properly improve your skills.¡±


    ¡°Well, you don¡¯t have a bed to sleep in now. I¡¯m telling you, you¡¯ll pay the price for crossing me. Look at the three women beside me. Which one of them doesn¡¯t respect me?¡±


    ¡°Of course, when a dog has a bone to chew, it will attract other dogs!¡±


    After he finished typing out those words, the entire public chat was filled with enthusiastic cheers. It seemed that many people had been suppressed by Zhou Qiang.


    However, at that moment, an ominous sound outside the door interrupted his thoughts.


    ¡°Get the hell out here, Bai Han!¡±


    ¡°Who¡¯s making such a ruckus?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m going to beat you up and make you call me daddy today! You¡¯ll see the consequences of provoking me. If you¡¯re a man, come down to the courtyard now. Otherwise, I¡¯ll flatten your whole house!¡±


    Bai Han could hear the sound of power accumulating outside, and he knew that if he didn¡¯t go down, his residence would suffer. Reluctantly, he went downstairs, only to find a crowd of angry-looking elders waiting for him. Each face was marked with the word ¡®contempt,¡¯ as if to say, ¡°Is this all you¡¯ve got? Does a young man like you need our entire family to mobilize against him?¡±


    ¡°Why did you bring so many people? One isn¡¯t enough to take me down?¡± Bai Han quipped, trying to diffuse the tension.


    The leader of the group, a fierce-looking man, stepped forward.


    ¡°Are you Bai Han?¡±


    ¡°What¡¯s it to you?¡±


    ¡°I want to see if the first person in the world who cleared the dungeon is strong enough to withstand my attack!¡± With that, the man drew a golden steel spear and lunged at Bai Han. But when the spear hit Bai Han¡¯s body, it felt like striking a hard object.


    ¡°What the¡­?!¡±


    ¡°Do you know what a Golden Cloth Armor is?¡±


    As he spoke, Bai Han took out the Evil Scythe!


    ¡°Clang!¡±


    The golden steel spear in front of him was sliced into two with a slash!


    ¡°Bastard, this is the highest-grade golden steel spear I¡¯ve seen in my life! Don¡¯t have any respect for your seniors?!¡±


    ¡°Remember, only with strength can you win the respect of others. I may have been called here by your dog, but I am not a lackey!¡±


    ¡°Zhou Clan, attack! We must kill him here today!¡±


    As they spoke, everyone took out their weapons and surrounded him. If they As they brandished their weapons and closed in, Bai Han realized that he was in a precarious situation. With so many attackers, it would be nearly impossible to fend them all off, even with his top-tier equipment.


    ¡°Now, kneel down and strip off your gear, and then break your own arm! If you do, I¡¯ll spare your miserable life. If not, my family¡¯s elders won¡¯t just kill you, but they¡¯ll wipe out your entire family!¡± The leader barked at him, his tone dripping with malice.


    ¡°Ice-sealing power!¡±


    Just as Bai Han was distracted and observing everyone, a man with a face full of scars behind him stretched out his staff and froze his feet on the spot!


    ¡°Is sneak attacking all your clan knows how to do?¡± Bai Han quipped, using his own staff to shatter the ice pillars around his feet. In retaliation, he absorbed the mana of the scar-faced attacker with his Void Staff, causing him to writhe in agony on the ground.


    ¡°I¡¯m dying! Young Master, please help me!¡± the attacker cried out in pain.


    ¡°Uncle Wang! How dare you, you bastard!¡±


    When everyone saw this scene, they surged forward, unleashing all their skills and spells at him. Bai Han braced himself for the onslaught.


    Thankfully, Bai Han had a plan in case of such an attack. He quickly consumed the Death Revival Fruit, which prevented him from dying but still left him vulnerable to their attacks.


    ¡°It¡¯s disappointing to see a group of people using their numbers to bully others. Is that how your Zhou Clan operates?¡±


    ¡°You have made a grave mistake by crossing me. Do as I say, or you¡¯ll regret it.¡±


    ¡°I regret not putting an end to you in the Mystic Realm Forest.¡± Bai Han glared at Zhou Qiang, brandishing the Abyss Blade in his hand.


    He was prepared to finish off this bastard in front of him! As long as he released the stun effect, Zhou Qiang would be finished.


    ¡°Thunk!¡±


    A huge rock smashed onto Zhou Qiang¡¯s head. Bai Han seized the opportunity to activate the Abyss Blade¡¯s stun effect and lunged forward, ready to incapacitate Zhou Qiang.

 Chapter 33

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Stop, stop quickly!¡±


    ¡°Time Freeze!¡±


    For a moment, everyone in the area was frozen on the spot. It was as if time had stopped at this moment, but they soon realized that someone outside had actually released a time-freezing skill.


    [Time Freeze: A skill that immobilizes everyone within a certain range for 50 seconds. The user can enter the frozen area and control each person¡¯s movements, but cannot kill any units. If anyone is killed, the user will be frozen in time as well.]


    At this moment, a suited man with a very round face entered the time-frozen area. He snatched the Abyss Blade from Bai Han¡¯s hand and pulled Bai Han out of the time-frozen area.


    ¡°Who are you? What gives you the right to interfere? I can handle these pests myself!¡± Bai Han protested.


    ¡°Mister Bai, please forgive me for being presumptuous, but our sect¡¯s elder has invited you as a guest. Don¡¯t worry, the Zhou Clan is no match for our power,¡± the man in the suit replied calmly.


    Bai Han weighed his options as he looked at the numerous members of the Zhou Clan in front of him and the man in the suit. Even with his power, he couldn¡¯t withstand an attack from so many people at once. It appeared that he had no other choice but to follow the suited man.


    ¡°Which sect are you from?¡± Bai Han asked, curious about his mysterious host.


    ¡°You¡¯ll find out soon enough. Please come with me. It¡¯s not worth it for a celebrity like you to get involved with these minions,¡± replied the suited man with a reassuring smile.


    ¡°It seems like we have the same idea.¡±


    Bai Han nodded in agreement and climbed into the luxurious convertible.


    He knew that in this world, owning a convertible meant having a significant advantage over others due to its powerful skills and protective effects.


    [World Convertible: Cannot be brought into secret forests or virtual worlds, but can teleport to any location in the game world. While moving at high speed, it forms a magic immune shield that prevents the Teleport skill from being used. The shield cannot be activated during teleportation.]


    Who wouldn¡¯t want a car like this? In this world, timing was everything when it came to entering checkpoints, dungeons, or secret realms. Being able to arrive first could mean the difference between dominating a mystic realm or falling behind.


    It was a fact that everyone acknowledged.


    In an instant, the convertible zoomed through a luxurious banquet hall.


    ¡°Async Banquet Hall.¡±


    Bai Han had only heard of this place since his arrival in this world, but he had never seen it before. It was rumored to be where the elders of all the sects and some distinguished seniors would gather every year to select the best young talents to join their sects. Players who excelled in the mystic realm or the game world were often invited and offered an olive branch by various big shots.


    As he entered the banquet hall, the conversations of the big shots ceased, and all eyes were fixed on him. Being the first person the clear the Mystic Realm Forest dungeon, Bai Han was expected to possess extraordinary abilities.


    ¡°Mister Bai, our Heavenly Star Sect holds significant influence in this world. We can offer you a better future!¡±


    ¡°Mr. Bai, we heard that you defeated divine-tier monsters and bosses with ease, even the hidden ones. Your arrival will bring light to our sect, and you will be our most distinguished guest!¡±


    ¡°We are the Liu Clan, one of the three major clans in the city. Come to our clan, and you will always be our most distinguished and honored guest. We will fulfill all your desires!¡±


    The sight of these once-arrogant big families and sects now worshipping him like a god made Bai Han realize that they were desperate for his abilities. He couldn¡¯t help but think that the Zhou family¡¯s offer of half a bottle of wine was a meager attempt to lure women compared to what these powerful factions were willing to do for him.


    ¡°Join us and lead our team. We¡¯ll follow your every command!¡±


    ¡°If you come to our team, our captain will step down and you¡¯ll take his place!¡±


    ¡°Please join our team, Guru. We¡¯ll grant your every wish!¡±


    In less than five minutes after entering the venue, everyone was trying their best to win Bai Han¡¯s heart.


    Bai Han listened to all their offers patiently, but soon realized what he really needed. ¡°I appreciate your enthusiasm, but I can only team up with players of the opposite sex. My powers were granted by a female player, and without her, I wouldn¡¯t be here today. I hope you understand.¡±


    The crowd¡¯s faces fell as they realized that this request would be difficult to fulfill. While each faction had many skilled female players, it wouldn¡¯t be reasonable for them to give up one of their own to join Bai Han¡¯s team.


    In other words, members of the opposite sex were often the source of passion and vitality for a team. Giving them away like this would be like snatching someone¡¯s wife away. As a result, no one spoke, and they all felt that this request was too unreasonable. Bai Han did not seem like a lecherous person, so why would he make such a strange decision?


    Just as everyone was at a loss, a tall and attractive woman walked in. ¡°Mister Bai, if it¡¯s possible, I¡¯m willing to form a team with you,¡± she said.


    ¡°Miss Lin Xiaomei, why are you doing this? Didn¡¯t you just agree to come to our sect to marry our elder¡¯s son?¡± someone asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I¡¯m not interested in the son of the sect. This kind of thing should be consensual. I know what Mister Bai¡¯s Awakened skill is, and he just said that he only wants to team up with the opposite sex. Therefore, you can¡¯t meet his requirements. Only I can,¡± Lin Xiaomei replied.


    As she spoke, she made a gesture of reaching out her hand, wanting Bai Han to take the initiative and take her hand.

 Chapter 34

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Do you want me, a girl, to take the initiative? Mister Bai?¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I already have a girl I like. Until she comes to find me, I won¡¯t team up with anyone else. I¡¯m afraid she¡¯ll be upset,¡± Bai Han replied.


    Upon hearing this, Lin Xiaoli smiled and said, ¡°Of course she will come, but you have chosen the wrong person. Perhaps you may not be able to fathom what you will face in the future if you choose her. My name is Lin Xiaoli, and I am Lin Yuwei¡¯s biological sister.¡±


    Bai Han was taken aback by this revelation. He scrutinized Lin Xiaoli, realizing that she looked really similar to Lin Yuwei. It was no surprise that she was able to find him so accurately.


    His system interface was already inundated with all sorts of invitations, and the Zhou family¡¯s threats had already been dealt with. With so many big shots and people of prominence present, the Zhou family wouldn¡¯t dare to act recklessly.


    ¡°I know about your Awakened skills and talent, but I don¡¯t quite believe it. My sister has been taken advantage of by you so much, and I suspect that you¡¯re an old pervert who only wanted to take advantage of her. However, my sister¡¯s unrivaled equipment makes me really want to try teaming up with you,¡± said Lin Xiaoli.


    Bai Han was hesitant and asked, ¡°How can you prove that you¡¯re Lin Yuwei¡¯s sister? I need evidence or proof.¡±


    Lin Xiaoli understood the challenge and invited him to a coffee shop to talk. As they sat across from each other, Bai Han and Lin Xiaoli were both filled with distrust. Lin Yuwei had never mentioned having an elder sister, and when Alex had created the nightmare, Lin Yuwei had called her parents without mentioning her sister.


    ¡°I can¡¯t prove it to you because I promised her that I would never tell her about her past. It¡¯s the only reason why the two of us can be intimate in this world,¡± Lin Xiaoli explained.


    ¡°I heard her say, ¡®Dad, Mom, don¡¯t leave me!¡±¡±


    Hearing this, Lin Xiaoli¡¯s eyes went blank!


    Overwhelmed by emotion, Lin Xiaoli forgot what she wanted to do with Bai Han and didn¡¯t know how to proceed.


    ¡°What other information do you have?¡± asked Bai Han skeptically. ¡°Please prove to me now that you¡¯re really her sister. Otherwise, I¡¯m sorry, I can¡¯t team up with a possible fraud, even though I¡¯m eager to explore other mystic realms.¡±


    Bai Han remembered the message from the hidden BOSS in the initial mystic forest, which suggested that someone had created the mystic forest, and he was determined to uncover the truth. He also recalled that the system had hinted that collecting the crystals and returning to the real world would yield unexpected results.


    Lin Xiaoli replied, ¡°I don¡¯t want to prove it to you right now, but I have a way to demonstrate that I¡¯m her sister. Come with me to that mystic realm. I only want to go there, and you¡¯ll understand why after we arrive. Although we¡¯re not biological sisters, we¡¯re like sisters to each other.¡±


    As Lin Xiaoli spoke, Bai Han made a move to leave. He had initially believed that breaking through the Initial Mystic Realm forest and securing first place in the world would bring him a more relaxed life in this world. And indeed, that had been confirmed. Countless powerful individuals, sects, and families were vying for his attention, making him a famous figure in this world.


    But he couldn¡¯t shake off his unhappiness. He had witnessed a loyal soldier¡¯s death due to his commander¡¯s betrayal and the struggles of a couple who had a difficult life. The wife had turned into a hidden boss in the mystic forest to be with her husband every day, a transformation that must have been incredibly painful.


    ¡°It¡¯s about her, isn¡¯t it?¡± Bai Han asked.


    ¡°Yes,¡± Lin Xiaoli replied. ¡°After she came out of the Initial Mystic Realm forest with you, her eyes were lifeless. Sometimes, awakening a person¡¯s memories or revealing their past isn¡¯t a good thing. I hope she can live in this world without memories, forever. That¡¯s why I don¡¯t want to prove it to you.¡±


    Bai Han was taken aback by her words.


    Lin Xiaoli had just mentioned that she hoped Lin Yuwei could live in a world without memories, implying that some of her memories would be erased upon arriving in this world.


    The individual behind the scenes endeavored to revive the memories of those who transmigrated! This revelation provided some clarity. If Simon, found in the twisted forest of the Initial Mystic Realm, was a living individual who had transmigrated to this world at the time of death, then his survival would have been implausible.


    Thus, it was evident that everyone who transmigrated to this world presumably possessed a memory that could not be disclosed. The person who constructed the mythical realm and the hidden method to clear it must have aimed to revive their memories. But for what purpose? If their goal was to kill these individuals, couldn¡¯t they have employed a simpler approach? When these people had no levels, they were weaker than ants. So why go through the complicated process of reviving their memories before killing them?


    It was possible that even after their memories were restored, the individual behind the scenes would be unable to kill them. This conclusion suggested that their intention was not to kill, but to achieve some ulterior motive. The only way to uncover this goal was to explore the various secret realms, defeat the hidden bosses, and extract clues from their mouths or from those areas to revive others¡¯ memories. Nevertheless, this approach was unlikely to have benevolent intentions. It was evident that Simon and Lin Yuwei¡¯s memories were unpleasant and distressing. This fact explained why Lin Xiaoli was unable to confirm their sibling relationship.


    ¡°I must first assess your capabilities before forming a team with you. Otherwise, teaming up with you would undoubtedly result in failure. However, I trust you will not engage in any deceptive practices. I am joining forces with you solely due to Lin Yuwei. I hope you appreciate my efforts and abide by your promise.¡±

 Chapter 35

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°My talent is quite simple,¡± Lin Xiaoli explained. ¡°Just follow me. There¡¯s a great school nearby that I¡¯ve turned into a training ground where we can test your abilities. I¡¯ve sealed off the area, so it¡¯s exclusive to my students.¡±


    It became clear that in this world, Lin Xiaoli was a beast tamer who trained students in the various techniques of beast training. The former principal had died in the mystical realm, leaving the campus abandoned and unmanaged. One of the Lin sisters was a mage, and the other was a beast tamer who had set up a barrier to isolate the school.


    The barrier, called ¡°Barrier Separation,¡± was a basic skill of a beast tamer, which could isolate an area with a barrier. Only players with a higher level than the beast tamer could break the barrier. After the barrier had existed for more than three months, it would become an exclusive barrier that could not be entered without the owner¡¯s permission and could not be destroyed.


    It appeared that the Lin sisters had put a lot of effort into building this barrier for over three months. But Bai Hui wondered how they managed to take care of the children there. However, he realized that this was not something he needed to worry about.


    [Ding! Detected a barrier ahead.]


    [You need the owner¡¯s permission to enter!]


    ¡°Bai Han, who is a priest, can enter and be given management rights.¡±


    [Ding! Congratulations, you have become the administrator of Shuanglin School! You can decide which students can enter or leave, and you can also decide the training content.]


    Lin Xiaoli showed great trust in Bai Han by giving him the authority to manage the school. This meant that he could even let in problematic students without repercussions.


    ¡°Did you see that? I wouldn¡¯t give an ordinary person such authority, but I trust you completely,¡± she said.


    Bai Han was curious and asked, ¡°Why do you trust me? Is it because of what happened between Lin Yuwei and me? That¡¯s not convincing enough. Moreover, I can¡¯t guarantee that you¡¯re giving me the authority for my own good. After all, you¡¯re the principal of this school.¡±


    Lin Xiaoli corrected him, saying, ¡°You¡¯re wrong. I¡¯m not the principal. I¡¯m actually one level higher than you. I¡¯m the director of management, but I¡¯m only the supervisor of the principal. That¡¯s why the position of principal has always been empty. If you want, I can consider it.¡±


    Bai Han was amazed by her offer. She hadn¡¯t even tested his talent and the adaptability of various teams yet, and yet she was willing to give him such authority. Although he wasn¡¯t interested in being an official, having a place in this world was definitely not a bad thing.


    ¡°Alright, let¡¯s get started,¡± said Lin Xiaoli, ¡°The students are on holiday for the next two days, so it¡¯s the perfect opportunity.¡±


    They both stood in the middle of the arena, facing each other. Bai Han knew he had to take the initiative and felt a sense of duty to help Lin Yuwei. ¡°Let¡¯s do this,¡± he said as he slowly approached Lin Xiaoli.


    ¡°I¡¯m doing this for her,¡± he added.


    [Ding! A temporary team has been formed between Bai Han and Lin Xiaoli. Opposite sex judgment is successful. All attributes increased by 30%.]


    ¡°We¡¯ve formed a team. Let¡¯s begin the real trial,¡± said Lin Xiaoli. She planned to initiate contact with Bai Han directly, but he waved his hand and said, ¡°Allow me to be the gentleman and take the lead.¡±


    Bai Han then leaned in and gently kissed Lin Xiaoli¡¯s cheek.


    [Intimate Contact authentication successful, distance restriction of BUFF removed. Duration: 240 minutes]


    [Based on the degree of intimacy, a special BUFF is obtained: All attributes increased by 15 points, Luck increased by 20 points, effective time:240 minutes]


    [Level has exceeded 15. You can directly copy the opponent¡¯s talent!]


    [Replicating Beast Taming Instinct.]


    [Taming Instinct: If there are creatures of a lower level than you or children below the age of eight, you can attract their attention. When they are within 100 yards of you, you can tame them by looking at them for three seconds. However, you cannot be interrupted by physical or magic attacks during these three seconds, or the beast taming will fail. If there are creatures of a higher level than you in the surroundings, you can also directly detect them


    through your instincts and mark them on the map. If their level is at least twice or more than yours, it will directly form a warning signal!]


    This skill was impressive and much stronger than the Mirror of Aether. After separating from Lin Yuwei, he gave the aether mirror and the purple wraith belt to her. As for the crystal on the mirror, he had taken it back for himself. However, he had made sure to give her a certain level of self-defense skill.


    [Talent successfully replicated!]


    ¡°Let¡¯s take a look at your attributes,¡± Bai Han said with a smile as he looked at Lin Xiaoli in front of him. This time, he felt more comfortable using the Intimacy Judgment. The reason was very simple ¨C because he had a stronger purpose for using it.


    It was just like when a man and a woman were in love. Both of them seemed to have their own goals.


    When Lin Xiaoli saw her own attribute panel, her eyes lit up, and the corners of her mouth slowly curled up. It seemed that she was very satisfied with Bai Han¡¯s results. However, it was obvious that the girl in front of him still had a certain blush and heartbeat. After all, who could refuse a boy¡¯s gentle kiss?


    ¡°You¡­you did all this just to find her, right?¡± Lin Xiaoli asked, her voice tinged with a mixture of excitement and suspicion.


    Bai Han hesitated for a moment before responding, ¡°Don¡¯t say that. Since you¡¯re her biological sister, as long as you can prove that the two of you are related, why should I treat you differently?¡±


    Lin Xiaoli¡¯s face lit up with a bright smile, perhaps the first genuine one she had shown since arriving in this world. It was as if being with Bai Han had brought a sense of joy and comfort that she had been missing.


    Lin Xiaoli made a sudden request, saying ¡°It seems that Yuwei did not choose the wrong person. If possible, I hope that we can live together and I will take you to find the person you want to see. Will you promise not to abandon me?¡± Bai Han was taken aback by her words and felt like she was acting like a vulnerable girlfriend as she held his hand tightly.


    Bai Han agreed to her request, but added a condition of his own, saying ¡°I agree, but I hope you will also agree to what I want.¡± Lin Xiaoli then took out the decisive evidence, causing Bai Han to feel uneasy. He realized that everything might not be as simple as he had initially thought and that the title that he¡¯d just gained as the first person in the world to clear the Initial Mystic Realm was just the beginning of something more complicated.

 Chapter 36

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Do you know what this thing is?¡± Bai Han asked Lin Xiaoli.


    ¡°I¡¯m afraid only you know,¡± Lin Xiaoli replied.


    ¡°Why didn¡¯t she come to see me personally?¡± Bai Han asked.


    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, things are too complicated. If I were to explain, it¡¯s likely that you won¡¯t understand the truth in the end. Only after you experience it yourself will you know why I can¡¯t explain it to you. If possible, can we go to that mystic realm now?¡± Lin Xiaoli suggested.


    The decisive evidence was the torn edge of a cloak. When the huge spider and terrifying monster appeared in front of Lin Yuwei and Bai Han, Lin Yuwei hid in the cloak in fear and accidentally tore it off in a panic.


    He quickly used the rag to match the broken mark on his cloak. It could be said to be a perfect fit. There was no such coincidence in the world. In other words, the person in front of him must have a very inextricable relationship with Lin Yuwei.


    While touring the school, Bai Han saw small paintings made by the children for the Lin sisters, as well as happy creations after awakening some simple skills. One child had even awakened the talent to build simple houses, and had written information about the Lin sisters on the house. Bai Han had to admit that the Lin sisters¡¯ relationship was real.


    ¡°Where are we headed?¡± Bai Han asked curiously.


    ¡°We don¡¯t have a car, so we¡¯ll have to rely on simple transportation to get to the mystic realm. Unless, of course, you want to join a sect and get them to provide you with a car,¡± Lin Xiaoli replied.


    ¡°But we can¡¯t just skip the scenery on the way, can we? Besides, we¡¯re a team now. You have your own school and these children will likely become powerful players in the future. You¡¯ve already formed your own sect, so there¡¯s no need to be modest.¡±


    During the car ride, Lin Xiaoli explained to Bai Han the requirements for obtaining a convertible. One had to have a complete sect or family to be eligible to purchase one at the World Trade Center.


    [World Trade Center: In the center of this world, there is a huge shopping mall. There are all kinds of goods in the mall. You can buy items in the mall by spending luck value, experience value, or the purest gold coins and diamonds.


    [Experience: Every time you gain 1000 EXP, you can gain one experience point here.]


    [Gold Coins and Diamonds: You can obtain them by selling your low-level or old equipment, or by selling equipment that doesn¡¯t belong to your class. There is a conversion relationship between gold coins and diamonds. 1000 gold coins can be exchanged for one diamond.]


    [Note: Special items require special permission to purchase.]


    After they discussed the transportation arrangements, the long journey began. It was not the peak tourist season, and there were hardly any people on the train except for them. However, their solitude was soon disrupted by a strange sound.


    ¡°Ke Ke-! Ke Ke-!¡±


    ¡°There seem to be some stowaways,¡± said Bai Han.


    Lin Xiaoli looked at him, wondering if someone was monitoring them or trying to stop them.


    ¡°Sister Xiaoli, I¡¯m afraid you didn¡¯t do a good job of security,¡± Bai Han said.


    ¡°It¡¯s already so late, and there are hardly any passengers on the train. Besides, this isn¡¯t the peak season for world tourism or dungeon-crawling. How could there be anyone else?¡±


    ¡°You should know that there¡¯s no such thing as an impenetrable wall. How could the Zhou family let me off so easily?¡±


    Saying so, Bai Han took out his Evil Scythe and Void Staff.


    ¡°If we don¡¯t eliminate them, we might not be able to enjoy this train ride,¡± he said.


    They then walked towards the back of the train, from where the sound was coming.


    ¡°Roar!¡±


    As they opened the trunk door, a few red-eyed monsters leaped out of the glass!


    [Monster Name: Red-Eyed Mercenary!]


    [Level: 14]


    [Health Points: 950]


    [Attack Power: 240]


    [Special Ability: Red-Eyed Mercenary. He always believes in his master and has been implanted with information to kill a designated target. Therefore, the Red-Eyed Mercenary will stop at nothing to attack the target! When using the red eyes to lock onto the target, the Red-Eyed Mercenary¡¯s HP and attack power will be doubled!]]


    ¡°Make sure you avoid their gaze, or it could be the end of us!¡±


    ¡°You really think we¡¯d be scared of something like this?¡±


    As Bai Han spoke, he swung his evil scythe directly into the eyes of the first mercenary!


    -1479


    With just a small attack, he was able to take out the mercenary¡¯s entire health bar!


    Lin Xiaoli was stunned by the quick and efficient attack.


    However, the other red-eyed mercenaries soon locked onto Bai Han, and one of them even spat out a bloody-looking hidden weapon!


    ¡°Watch out for their hidden weapons!¡±


    Bai Han swiftly turned around and used his staff to decapitate the attacking mercenary.


    -1879


    These were just normal attacks and didn¡¯t result in any critical hits, but suddenly 10 to 20 red-eyed mercenaries climbed through the train window in front of them, fixating their gaze on Bai Han.


    As their eyes locked onto their target, they emitted a blood-red aura and shot even more intense hidden weapons from their eyes.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Lin Xiaoli couldn¡¯t bear to watch the scene unfold. Countless hidden weapons filled the entire carriage, but she remained unharmed as the red-eyed mercenaries would only target their designated victim.


    ¡°Roar!¡±


    As the red-eyed mercenaries let out their roar, their heads were swiftly severed by Bai Han. Having consumed an Agility Golden Body Fruit, he was able to quickly eliminate all the enemies with lightning-fast precision.


    Lin Xiaoli couldn¡¯t believe what she had just witnessed. She didn¡¯t even have time to blink before realizing that all of their attackers had been eliminated.


    [Successfully killed red-eyed mercenary! EXP +48, Luck bonus, double EXP!]


    [Successfully killed red-eyed mercenary! EXP +46, Luck bonus, double EXP!]


    [Successfully killed red-eyed mercenary captain! EXP +69, Luck bonus, double EXP!]


    ¡­


    It was apparent that the attack was over, but given that the assailants had come to stop them, they were unlikely to have deployed such a simplistic monster. They likely had something more formidable up their sleeves.

 Chapter 37

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Oha! Wuaaah!¡±


    ¡°What a bunch of trash!¡±


    Screams and the rumbling of the train could be heard from the carriages behind them, along with the roars of at least three to five different types of monsters.


    ¡°Do we really need to turn back and fight the other monsters?¡± asked Lin Xiaoli.


    ¡°Have you forgotten that we¡¯re a team now? Besides, we have the Intimacy Judgement. If we work together, we¡¯ll get a bonus. Even though we won¡¯t get any drops from killing these monsters in the real world, we can still take this opportunity to improve our teamwork,¡± replied Bai Han.


    As they continued forward, Bai Han sensed that there were many monsters ahead of them that were higher level than him. Using his Beast Taming Instinct, he determined that there were at least three levels of monsters in front of him.


    ¡°You sense them, don¡¯t you? I think we should divide the work. You tame the low-level monsters, and I¡¯ll handle the highest-level ones. As for the mid-level monsters that are at your level, you should be able to handle them,¡± Bai Han suggested.


    Lin Xiaoli nodded in agreement. Taming lower-level monsters was nothing new to her.


    Soon, Lin Xiaoli summoned a group of adorable Treemen that she had tamed.


    [Monster Name: Treeman]


    [Level: 14]


    [Health Points: 1800]


    [Attack: 320]


    [Special Ability: The Treeman can choose to sit down directly and sprout its roots in the surroundings. The vines that grow can wrap around enemies whose level is lower than its own for 15 seconds.]


    ¡°Perfect! We¡¯ll let them attract the monsters¡¯ attention. They will entangle monsters of the same level as them. That¡¯ll let us focus on killing the highest-level monster!¡± Bai Han reassured Lin Xiaoli.


    As the door of the carriage at the back was opened, countless Treemen rushed in, catching the monsters off guard.


    The Treemen quickly landed on the ground and took root, sprouting vines that entangled the Level 15 and Level 14 monsters in the surrounding area. Among them were the red-eyed mercenaries from before, their vision blurred from the vines wrapping around them. They continued to stare at Bai Han, but were unable to move due to the Treemen¡¯s special ability.


    Just then, a loud and disruptive scream echoed from a distance, ¡°Ah! Ahhhhh! Ahhhhhhhhhhh!¡±


    ¡°What a noisy monster!¡±


    [Monster Name: Headless Daredevil Soldier]


    [Level: 15]


    [Health Points: 300]


    [Attack Power: 2000 (Suicide Attack)]


    [Special Ability: The creature¡¯s HP may only be 300, similar to that of the Red-Eyed Mercenaries, but once it has killed its target, it will implant the information in its brain. If the target is detected within proximity, the creature will quickly accelerate its speed by over five times, charge towards the target, and set off all of the explosives on them.]


    -300


    -300


    In the distance, there were around 50 to 60 headless monsters charging toward them, but they had low HP, and Bai Han could gradually defeat them using his Void Staff. Furthermore, the narrowness of the carriage made it easier to defend.


    Suddenly, Bai Han realized the ulterior motive of the people controlling these mercenaries.


    They wanted to create a massive explosion that would destroy the entire train, and the headless monsters were just a tool to achieve that goal. The mastermind behind this could easily bribe their way out of any consequences. This was not difficult to achieve for the Zhou family.


    Amidst the chaos, Bai Han spotted a huge monster behind the headless monsters, and he realized that defeating it would end the conflict. The carriage was already shaking due to the continuous explosions, and the red-eyed mercenaries and the released Treemen were dying due to the explosions.


    ¡°After every 20 headless suicide soldiers, there¡¯s a brief gap of around 5 to 6 seconds. Let¡¯s release the roots near the Treemen¡¯s seat. They¡¯ll be instantly bound once they come near and won¡¯t detonate unless they touch me,¡± Bai Han instructed Lin Xiaoli, who nodded and summoned a fresh wave of Treemen.


    This time, the group successfully bound at least 20 headless suicide soldiers to the carriage door. Even though the carriage was heavily damaged, the path ahead was still accessible.


    ¡°I¡¯ll show you what true teleportation means,¡± said Bai Han, having consumed the second golden fruit. He took advantage of the gap between the headless soldiers to quickly reach the last carriage.


    However, upon reaching the last carriage, he was shocked to see the monster was actually a person. An evil scythe was plunged into their neck, revealing a gruesome sight.


    [Monster Name: Clone (Zhou Weijun)]


    [Level: 19]


    [Occupation: Owner]


    [Health Points: 7588]


    [Attack Power: 1425]


    [Special ability: The clone will inherit all the attributes and skills of the original body, but the clone will suffer an additional 10% magic damage and 5% physical damage. Killing a clone will permanently reduce the original body¡¯s maximum health by 1%! The clone will unconditionally obey all orders of the main body! Moreover, it would protect the main body unconditionally! The target¡¯s information will be implanted in the brain!]


    The tension in the carriage was palpable as Bai Han confronted the Zhou Weijun clone. ¡°It seems like you want me to die!¡± he accused.


    ¡°Speak! Who sent you here? It¡¯s the eldest young master of the Zhou family, right?¡±


    The clone refused to answer, citing Zhou Weijun as their protection target. ¡°Objection! I can¡¯t answer!¡± they exclaimed.


    Bai Han¡¯s patience snapped. ¡°Then you can only die!¡± he declared, raising his huge evil scythe. The weapon glinted dangerously as it stabbed directly into the clone¡¯s throat, leaving them with no time to respond.


    -9522!


    ¡°Ah!¡± the clone cried out helplessly before collapsing into a pile of data and disappearing from the carriage.


    [Successfully killed Zhou Weijun¡¯s clone. Gained +5744 EXP. Killing a clone of a higher level has increased experience by 1.5 times!]


    It was clear that this journey was not going to be an easy one, as the Zhou family¡¯s skill in creating mercenaries was becoming increasingly apparent. Their mercenaries were willing to risk their lives to complete their mission, even using suicide attacks like the headless daredevil soldiers. This was a very powerful profession, and only the Zhou family members could do such a thing.


    ¡°They will definitely pay the price!¡± Lin Xiaoli exclaimed, looking at the wreckage of the carriages and the corpses of the Treemen on the ground.


    But Bai Han disagreed, shaking his head. ¡°No, they have a purpose,¡± he said with a serious tone. ¡°It¡¯s clear they don¡¯t intend to kill me. These few mercenaries aren¡¯t enough to do the job. Their objective is to prevent us from reaching the mystic realm.¡±

 Chapter 38

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    Bai Han leaned against the train window and spoke with confidence. ¡°You should know that they wouldn¡¯t dare to harm me. The current me is not the same as the me who stepped into the Mystic Realm Forest. Numerous powerful figures, social sects, and families are vying for my attention. Even if the Zhou family is influential, they wouldn¡¯t act recklessly.¡±


    The car journey would take a minimum of eight hours, providing plenty of time to ponder.


    ¡°Killing someone comes with consequences that cannot be undone,¡± Bai Han continued. ¡°If the Zhou family harms me, they¡¯ll face condemnation from all the sects and lose their reputation. People will accuse them of using their power to take revenge and call them an intolerant, vile family. It¡¯s a responsibility the Zhou family cannot bear.¡±


    Lin Xiaoli agreed with Bai Han¡¯s assessment. Although the Zhou family had a certain standing in the game world, they lacked the audacity compared to the three major families and hundreds of sects. However, this raised a question, why was the Zhou family¡¯s second son, Zhou Weijun, present here today?


    ¡°No, it¡¯s not Zhou Weijun. It¡¯s his clone,¡± Bai Han corrected Lin Xiaoli¡¯s assumption. ¡°And that¡¯s the second reason why they won¡¯t kill me. As the first person in the world who cleared the Initial Mystic Realm¡¯s dungeon, they must know my strength. Would they send a weakened clone and a bunch of mercenaries to take me out? It doesn¡¯t make sense.¡±


    Bai Han analyzed the situation and concluded that the person behind the attack was not from the Zhou family. Instead, they wanted to use the Zhou family as a scapegoat or tool. Due to the events at the family banquet and Zhou Qiang¡¯s public outbursts, many people knew about the Zhou family¡¯s grudge against Bai Han.


    If Bai Han¡¯s itinerary was obstructed or if he were to die, Zhou Qiang would be the prime suspect. This irony wasn¡¯t lost on Bai Han. Zhou Qiang had thought he was powerful and even bribed three women who worked for him, but now he was a mere pawn in someone else¡¯s game.


    Although the train had been cut off for at least two or three sections, there was no movement at the moment. They probably abandoned their plan to intercept the train, knowing that the next few stops would be more conspicuous cities. If they acted here, they would expose their identity.


    Even if the Zhou family acted as a shield for them, they would soon discover the true culprit. Killing someone was a point of no return, so the perpetrator had to ensure that everything appeared reasonable.


    ¡°Tell me about your story in the Mystic Realm Forest.¡±


    ¡°Didn¡¯t she tell you?¡±


    ¡°You seem to have forgotten what I said. Ever since she came back, she has been in a state of chaos. Can¡¯t you guess where I¡¯m taking you?¡±


    ¡°Are you trying to say that you¡¯re taking me to the mystic realm related to Lin Yuwei now?¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re not as stupid as I thought,¡± the woman said. ¡°I can¡¯t stand men who don¡¯t listen to me. If you still want to quit, you still have a chance. I¡¯ll be honest with you ¨C this train goes directly to the Mystic Realm. That¡¯s why there¡¯s no one else on board. It¡¯s my exclusive train.¡±


    ¡°You¡¯re a terrifying woman,¡± Bai Han replied. ¡°You lied to me just to get me to accompany you to the Mystic Realm!¡±


    ¡°I used a little deception to gain your trust,¡± the woman admitted. ¡°But it wasn¡¯t a complete lie. I said I would take you to the Mystic Realm, but I didn¡¯t say how we would get there. You still have a chance to leave. Just open the train door and jump onto any platform. If I go to the mystic realm alone, I might die inside, but for the sake of my sister, this is my last resort.¡±


    Seeing how determined the girl in front of him was, Bai Han knew that there was no way to stop this trip. The woman was too determined, and there were people hiding in the dark who would try to stop them. ¡°Then let¡¯s go,¡± he said. ¡°It¡¯ll take us seven hours to get there. I hope the journey won¡¯t be too tiring.¡±


    Lin Xiaoli stood up and looked around. She then smiled and drew her weapon.


    ¡°Iron Guard!¡± she exclaimed.


    The brown greatsword gleamed in the dim light of the train. It wasn¡¯t the color that made it shine ¨C it was the sword itself.


    [Skeleton Longsword: The entire body is made of skeleton bones. There is a 30% chance of causing a fourfold critical hit! Moreover, the bones are the bones of a reborn skeleton. Any creature controlled by the user or any unit in a team will obtain a 20% Lifesteal effect. If it is a bone soldier, the Lifesteal effect will be doubled!]


    [Iron Soldier Protection: Summon X number of bone soldiers. X number depends on all the enemy forces present. Each enemy force can summon two bone soldiers! Bone Soldiers are permanently immune to magic. They cannot receive any magic damage and cannot be affected by magic effects! However, it will receive an additional 20% physical damage.]


    [Moreover, if X is greater than 100, an iron curtain will appear!]


    [Iron Curtain: All units in the Beast Tamer Team will receive a 100% defense boost! You will also obtain the fog effect.]


    ¡°I¡¯m going to use my most powerful skill now. I hope you¡¯re ready for it,¡± Lin Xiaoli said as countless black auras began to appear around them, creating an eerie atmosphere. ¡°As soon as an enemy appears, they will be surrounded by my bone soldiers. Fear has already been instilled on this train.¡±


    Bai Han reminded her that there might be someone waiting for them at the station entrance, and they could have already gone inside. ¡°They¡¯re here to stop us, and they might have a hidden agenda,¡± he said.


    ¡°Could it be that they want to¡­¡±


    ¡°I don¡¯t know what Lin Yuwei¡¯s mythical realm has, but they obviously want to achieve some unspeakable goal!¡±


    ¡°There¡¯s no turning back from killing someone. I¡¯ve trusted you since we got on this train! ¡±


    Bai Han equipped himself with his Evil Scythe and Void Staff, ready to face whatever lay ahead. The monsters and bosses had been their previous challenges, but now it was the players of the world they had to be wary of.


    ¡°Please, tell me what we¡¯re up against,¡± Bai Han urged.


    ¡°I wish I could, but you¡¯ll have to experience it yourself,¡± Lin Xiaoli replied cryptically.


    The emotions of fear, cowardice, suspicion, and deceit swirled around them, yet their bond grew stronger, less susceptible to dissolution.


    ¡°All right. I understand,¡± Bai Han said with conviction.


    At this moment, the bus arrived at the station.


    ¡°When you step off the train, you¡¯ll be entering the actual mythical realm, not just a forest within it.¡±


    BOOM!


    ¡°Fire Wall!¡±


    A warm current rushed over like lightning!


    ¡°Quick, dodge!¡± Lin Xiaoli shouted, but to her surprise, Bai Han displayed an incredible level of power. She was stunned, as she had never expected him to be so strong.

 Chapter 39

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    [Player Wu Chen has been killed! Professional Firearm Master! EXP +5740. Killed someone above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    ¡°You¡­You won¡¯t get away with this! You will pay the price!


    Ah!¡± Wu Chen¡¯s head was impaled by a massive blade!


    ¡°This is what happens when you try to stop me!¡±


    ¡°Kacha!¡±


    Bai Han swiftly decapitated Wu Chen and grasped his head, exiting the station with Lin Xiaoli and her two skeleton soldiers in tow.


    ¡°If you dare to stand in my way again, this man will be your warning! Remember that!¡± Bai Han¡¯s words resounded through the waiting hall like a sharp blade.


    ¡°You bastard! I¡¯m going to kill you!¡± Suddenly, a repulsive figure emerged, emitting a putrid odor. The person¡¯s body contorted and twisted in a grotesque manner!


    [Name: Wang Shouzhi]


    [Class: Butcher]


    [Health Points: 87889]


    [Attack: 345]


    [Level: 19]


    [Unique Ability: Whenever a creature dies within a 300-yard radius of him, Butcher permanently increases the HP of the deceased target by 10%! However, this ability comes at a cost of reduced movement and attack speed. Additionally, Butcher¡¯s characteristics prevent him from using any physical or magic defense.


    Butcher can utilize his own health points to release poisonous gas and miasma. Upon his death, the decaying flesh on his body will explode, dealing splash damage based on his maximum HP!]


    In essence, Butcher was simply a tank; a meat shield.


    ¡°I¡¯ll give you a taste of a real stench!¡± Butcher taunted as his body emitted a nauseating odor.


    ¡°My head hurts!¡±


    ¡°Come here!¡±


    Bai Han quickly pulled Lin Xiaoli under his cloak, protecting her from the stench. He then activated the Void Staff¡¯s absorption function, sucking in all the miasma and stench.


    ¡°How is that possible?¡± Butcher¡¯s HP began to decrease rapidly, and it became clear Butcher had been using his own HP to release the noxious gas.


    Bai Han took advantage of the opportunity and hooked Butcher with a chain, then impaled him with a knife. Butcher realized too late that he had been silenced.


    ¡°The Abyss Blade will drag you down to the depths of the abyss!¡± Bai Han declared as he plunged the evil scythe into the Butcher¡¯s head once more, dealing massive damage.


    -7588


    -48555!


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    The grotesque creature trembled in agony as its rotten flesh quivered uncontrollably.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    ¡°Quick, hide! It¡¯s about to explode!¡± Lin Xiaoli yelled, urging Bai Han to seek shelter.


    BOOM!


    Suddenly, a deafening blast shook the entire waiting hall, reducing everything to rubble.


    Despite the chaos, Bai Han scooped up Lin Xiaoli and dashed into the nearest restroom to take cover. As debris rained down around them, the rocks behind them tumbled after them, hurtling toward the pair at an alarming speed.


    ¡°We need to¡­¡± Lin Xiaoli started to speak, but Bai Han cut her off. ¡°Don¡¯t speak! Just hold on tight!¡±


    [Ding! Advanced Intimate Contact has been successfully determined!]


    [Acquired Invincible Body: When two people have any intimate contact and maintain it for more than one minute, both parties will be invincible! Invincibility state lasts for 1 minute!]


    [Obtained Absolute Evolution: When the distance between the two people is less than 5 meters, Absolute Evolution can be triggered! It increases one¡¯s current level and attributes by up to 3 times!]


    [Current effect: All attributes increased by 100%! Luck value:1157!]


    The princess hug had been a powerful intimate action, but it was not enough to obtain the God Destroying Slash. Bai Han knew he had to get even closer to Lin Xiaoli.


    ¡®I¡¯m afraid I have to be more intimate!¡¯ Thinking this, Bai Han decided to go for a passionate kiss, hoping it would unlock the power he needed.


    As they ran, rocks smashed into them, but their invincibility status held up. Eventually, the collapse stopped, and Bai Han held Lin Xiaoli in his arms, feeling sorry for her. She had sacrificed too much for her sister.


    Most importantly, they were not biological sisters. What exactly happened between them? He used to think that Lin Xiaoli might have approached him for some benefit or even fabricated a lie about her sister, but the torn piece of his cloak that she¡¯d shown him was irrefutable evidence. Bai Han couldn¡¯t imagine a motive that could make her lie about the


    entire thing, so he concluded that she must not be a bad person. At worst, she was someone in pain, and that pain was the source of her actions.


    [Killed Butcher Wang Shouzhi. Obtained 6588 EXP. Killed someone above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    [Congratulations! You have leveled up to Level 18!]


    As Bai Han reached Level 18, he knew that the dangers he would face in the future would increase. The monsters and difficulties he would encounter in the Mystic Realm next would undoubtedly become more challenging.


    After the Butcher¡¯s explosion, he gathered up the scraps of rotten meat and wrapped them around the Firearms Master¡¯s head before throwing them out of the ruins. Outside, he could hear the sound of many people retreating.


    Mocking them, Bai Han said, ¡°What are you afraid of? You left a powerful character at the door and sent a firearms master and a butcher to kill me. Do you underestimate me?¡±


    Bai Han picked up Lin Xiaoli, who had lost consciousness due to the intense vibrations and carried her out of the door.


    If his life now revolved around the safety of these two women, then they had become his primary objective. While it may seem selfish, he couldn¡¯t abandon one of them for the other.


    In the game world, however, they could team up to run Shuanglin School and create better opportunities for players, working towards a common goal.


    Of course, his ultimate aim was to apprehend and take down the mastermind behind these mystic realms. By converting these dangerous realms into legitimate training grounds or dungeons, he hoped to foster peaceful competition and create a safer gaming environment. This was a goal that everyone should strive toward.


    Bai Han was aware that even if he succeeded in eliminating the creator of the mystic realm, sects and families would still engage in deadly battles in the future. Thus, it was essential to focus on self-improvement and find ways to enhance their abilities.

 Chapter 40

    Translator: EndlessFantasy Translation Editor: EndlessFantasy Translation


    ¡°Stop. You don¡¯t want to know what¡¯s out there!¡±


    Just as Bai Han walked out of the waiting hall and reached the street, at least 20 to 30 people appeared in front of him and blocked his way.


    ¡°Didn¡¯t you see their banners?¡±


    ¡°I understand that you are incredibly powerful and that we cannot prevent you from pursuing the truth. However, I urge you to consider whether the woman you hold in your arms is genuinely acting in your best interests or has ulterior motives,¡± expressed the individual in front of Bai Han.


    Bai Han gently laid Lin Xiaoli, who had lost consciousness, beside him. He responded, ¡°I cannot say for sure whether she has any ulterior motives, but I do know one thing. We have gone through many challenges together on the train and in the waiting hall. At least she used her most potent skill to assist me.¡±


    He continued, ¡°You and your comrades are constantly trying to stop me. Ironically, the more you obstruct me, the more determined I become.¡±


    With that, Bai Han drew the Abyss Blade and Void Staff from his hands. He had even acquired Lin Xiaoli¡¯s ability to tame beasts. After scanning the area, he realized that most of the nearby creatures had higher levels than him. Nevertheless, in his perspective, the level was no longer a crucial factor.


    Lin Xiaoli gradually regained consciousness and upon seeing the numerous figures before her, she jolted awake and stood up.


    ¡°Bai Han! You can¡¯t take them on. These people, they¡¯re insane!¡± she exclaimed.


    ¡°What are you talking about? Would a lunatic even try to reason with me?¡± Bai Han countered.


    Yet, the system had already passed its judgment on the individual standing before them at that moment.


    [Name: Li Yaodong]


    [Class: Psychologist]


    [Level: 19]


    [Health Points: 800]


    [Attack Power: One hit kill!]


    [Special Skill 1: If a conversation with this person lasts for more than three minutes, they will be trapped in Silent Hill. If the conversation continues for more than one minute or if the person reveals too much information, they will be vulnerable to a fatal blow from the speaker.]


    [Special Skill 2: Despite having low HP, if you can withstand the speaker¡¯s mental or conversational attack, you will have the Chaotic Body protecting you. However, you must remain within the Chaotic Body for at least three minutes, or the mental attack will still affect you.]


    [Mind Kill: If you let your guard down and willingly share your thoughts with the attacker, they can access your heart and kill you with a single strike.]


    If Bai Han had engaged in conversation for more than three minutes or participated in the previous discussion, he would have been dead by now. It was clear that this class was incredibly powerful.


    Lin Xiaoli¡¯s repeated warnings about the person in front of them being a lunatic made sense. The key to defeating this opponent was to dismiss everything they said as nonsense and refuse to engage with them.


    ¡°Lin Xiaoli, you¡¯re here to ruin my plans again!¡± the psychologist exclaimed.


    ¡°Li Yaodong, get out of the way if you know what¡¯s good for you. I don¡¯t want anything to do with you anymore. I¡¯m only doing this to save my sister. I want her to return before things get worse,¡± Lin Xiaoli replied.


    ¡°Your sister isn¡¯t coming back. I¡¯m here to stop you today!¡± the opponent declared. Dozens of Chaotic Bodies appeared around them. They all looked identical, making it impossible to distinguish one from another.


    Bai Han tried to attack the Chaotic Bodies with his weapon, but it was ineffective. They seemed immune to his attacks, or perhaps they were simply illusory.


    ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Since I have defeated him once, I can do it again. I can do it ten times!¡± Lin Xiaoli reassured Bai Han. She activated her Iron Guards once again.


    In an instant, all the Chaotic Bodies disappeared, leaving only the Chaotic Body and two Iron Soldiers standing.


    ¡°Take this!¡± Bai Han attacked with an evil scythe, shattering the Chaotic Body into pieces.


    ¡°Ah!¡±


    Li Yaodong, who had previously escaped from Lin Xiaoli¡¯s attack, was now lying on the ground, clutching his chest in pain.


    Lin Xiaoli had attempted to break his Chaotic Body Array before, but her lack of attack power allowed Li Yaodong to escape. This time, with the two of them working together, Li Yaodong had little hope of getting away.


    Bai Han approached him with a poisoned dagger in hand, ready to deliver the final blow. He slowly lifted Li Yaodong¡¯s head and declared his unstoppable power, ¡°I want you to experience the true meaning of death. No one can stand in my way.¡±


    ¡°Arghhh!!!¡±


    [Psychologist Li Yaodong has been killed! EXP +6520. Killed someone above your level. Obtained double EXP!]


    Clang!


    Thanks to his high luck value, countless pieces of equipment dropped again! Even though Butcher and the Firearm Master didn¡¯t drop much equipment after their deaths, Bai Han realized that for every three high-level, Hero-level, or Boss-level units that were killed, there would be valuable equipment that dropped after the boss was downed.


    Aside from the usual golden fruits, he also discovered many unexpected new items.


    [Subduing Magic Staff: This staff deals 50% additional damage to non-human units when using magic attacks. It is lightweight and portable, with the same casting time as the attack time before casting.]


    [Magic Pendant (Offensive) x20: Each Magic Pendant has a different effect. Attack-type Pendants cause 2% more damage with each normal attack, with a tearing effect. Each attack consumes one pendant.]


    [True Damage Energy x800: This energy is directly added to the magic energy and deducted first for true damage. Each attack or skill released will cause a certain amount of true damage. Once the energy is depleted, the true damage will disappear.]


    The equipment, items, and bonus effects from this attack appeared to be different from previous attacks and resulted in increased damage. True damage could ignore all magic immunity and magic damage, making it incredibly powerful for a priest.


    Even with low attack power and damage, this bonus could still be fatal to the opponent.


    Upon inspecting their new equipment and items, they exited the waiting hall and were welcomed by the view of what seemed to be a very comfortable city.