In lieu of such circumstances, the momentum of the beast tide soared rampantly! Due to the sudden vacuum of firepower resistance against the viperwolves, the berserking viperwolves were on the verge of infiltrating the arachnid base. Yet right at this moment, ten over gigantuous creatures shockingly emerged from the Nydus Worm. These creatures were exceedingly familiar to them. Indeed, the spawns made possible by Sheyan and Mogensha’s previous offering of genetic coding, the Flame Beetles of the Blackthorn tribe!
These humongous beetles were hastily transported to various crucial intersections by overlords, before assisting the groups of resisting zerglings. Instantaneously, they acted like a sluice gate, once again locking down the viperwolf tide, locking them to death!!!
The viperwolves’ claws posed no threat to the Flame Beetles, whose carapace were as thick as 30 cm. Instead, the sheer leaning weight of the humongous Flame Beetles was sufficient to squish them! Once the viperwolves gathered excessively, or any aerial Mountain Banshee swooped down in assault, the Flame Beetles would spray out a horrifying spread of burning acid, incinerating all into charcoal.
As for those crafty zerglings, they merely spied the situation by the side. Once they witnessed any viperwolf lagging alone, several zerglings would immediately pounce forth; relying on their superior quantity to engage in brazen chomping and slashing! According to theory, the viperwolf was indeed stronger than the zerglings; however, such an advantage shrank in the face of innumerable population of foes.
In the viperwolf’s perspective, their strength resided in their intelligent usage of collaborative assaults, and not the current state of reckless charging; viewing death as their return to home. Their most suitable battlefield should be within the dense forest during the night, where they could stalk and silently creep up to their preys. Once their prey revealed any flaw, they would then ferociously lunge in. It definitely wasn’t such a rigid carnage of flesh and blood!
On the contrary, the zerglings were creatures coincidentally honed through countless thousands of years of the evolution of the arachnid race; troops that had been refined by the vicissitudes of life, through innumerable head on clashes. When comparing the two, the shortcomings of both parties were evidently illustrated.
As for the Mountain Banshees that weren’t impressive in numbers; after they finished spearing assaults against several lurkers, the dozens of Mutalisks in the sky fixated their attention towards them. The single combative prowess of the Mountain Banshees squared off against the overwhelming superiority of multitudes of Mutalisks. Even in the face of bullying flocks, the muscular dominant and swifter Mountain Banshees held not a tinge of fear against the Mutalisks……
Yet to sustain this, one premise had to be fulfilled – the absence of a massive disparity of quantities between both sides, where the battlefield retained a neutral state without any aiding reinforcements.
But the reality of the matter was……..beneath the aerial battlefield, there were wholly 23 aerial defensive Spore Colonies that had been promptly incubated out! Just in time, continuous and concentrated jets of flourishing corrosive green spores catapulted out. Ever since the Blackthorn Overmind had evolved to a Silver lord class, the entire tribe naturally evolved with the overall trend; the incubation rates of organ structures had accelerated by several folds.
Due to the surprisingly rapid fire of the Spore Colonies, the propelling green spores carved out streaks of criss-crossing green in mid air; as though they were weaved into a densely knitted net!
This was the details of the second assault: The beast tide was utterly annihilated.
Arachnid Tribe casualties: 17 Mutalisks, 9 lurkers, 167 zerglings, 2 flame beetles, 4 overlords, an organ structure and 12 Spore Colonies.
Shockingly following that, the intelligence transmitted by reconnaissance overlords about the third offensive wave completely surpassed Sheyan’s expectation. It was probably because Mother Nature Eywa had identified the defensive capabilities of the arachnid base as being reliant on favourable topography; but in terms of military prowess, they were actually somewhat strained and lacking in manpower. Eywa astoundly dispatched a fleet that comprised majority of long range slingers, blended with a smaller amount of viperwolves……
Such a proposed response was absolutely not wrong. If one already possessed overwhelming superiority in in terms of numbers, then the combat efficiency of a purely long range squad would indeed be greater than a close combat one. This pertained to the sullen fact of the rear close combatants being stalled at the back, while the frontlines received injuries but were unable to scatter in retreat.
Once the long range assaults of the slingers focused their fire output, then what could a Flame Beetle do about it? They similarly couldn’t withstand that. This move inevitably altered the initial state; a state described as ‘with a lone ranger guarding a narrow and treacherous terrain pass, even ten thousands cannot pass through’.
Nevertheless, why hadn’t Eywa commanded a skirmish that combined the mobilization strength of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd beast waves? That only signified one fact – Eywa’s mental prowess wasn’t sufficient to command such a raid of undaunted creatures even in the face of peril! Or perhaps, the price needed to assemble such an exaggerated amount of creatures was too extravagant for Eywa.
Besides, the creatures she mustered were different from the arachnids. They weren’t tools of warfare by nature, but possessed their personal sentience; understanding pain, the desire for life, and fear. To suppress such innate instincts would place an astounding strain on one’s mental prowess. Even in the realms of legends, even the strength of divinities were bounded by limits!
This is a golden opportunity, my friend!
Sheyan suddenly smirked as he muttered to himself.
At this moment, the Blackthorn Overmind begun fluttering its wings, trying its utmost to separate its plumpy body from the ground. Finally, it managed to sweep a glance towards the distant, and finally floated back down while heaving and puffing. Sheyan then casually transferred various information about the Slingers to him. Reacting to that, the fatty bug immediately issued a string of orders.
Following that, 18 worker drones anxiously rushed over and inaugurated the incubation of Sunken Colonies at several vital offensive directions. Finally, the base adopted an appearance of inadequate military force, retreating into a defensive stance.
Very quickly, the third battle officially commenced.
Though slingers were wild beasts possessing long range assault capabilities, they ultimately differed from the machine guns of the humans, and could only unleash unceasing bouts of venomous stings. Hence, their single projectile contained higher damage, but their offensive intervals would be slightly longer. They definitely required time for rest as well. Moreover, every since the Blackthorn tribe had been upgraded to a lvl 3 base, coupled with the bestowed strength by the Blade Empress onto the Blackthorn Overmind, the Sunken Colonies had similarly received outstanding boost in terms of both life points and regenerative ability.
Therefore, when the third tide of beasts flooded in, they first consecutively destroyed 7-8 Sunken Colonies like a hot knife passing through butter. Following that, they directly sank into a quagmire of to-and-fro tussle. Such a battle lasted for an entire hour. On the side of the Blackthorn tribe, several superficial and painless organ structures crumbled and demolished, along with over 10 Sunken Colonies. Of course, heaps of dead cannon fodder zerglings scattered about in disarray. Only, the propagation rate of the arachnids were too formidable; one egg could spawn out 2 zerglings. As long as they retained adequate pandora crystals, their breeding speed of troop replenishment remained relatively fast.
The battle was crescendoing to its climax. Clearly, the invading tempo had sunk into a stalemate situation. Every time a Sunken Colony exploded, the Blackthorn Overmind would replenish with another near the area. It was as though breaking through the defense line remained far in the indefinite future. As for the organ structures within the arachnid base core, they had already reached its basic form. The harvesting drones had already multiplied no less than a hundred heads, and were densely shuttling continuously; truly portraying a scene of using war to nurture war!
Not only that, this originally class ‘II’ base had already been upgraded to a class ‘III’ base, where organ structures had thoroughly matured to its grandest form. Now, they were simply awaiting the consciousness of the Mother of the Blackthorn, Shengong, to descend.
At present, Mother Nature Eywa had obviously realised something wasn’t right, and begun controlling the remaining Slingers to make gradual retreats. But by this point, the Blackthorn tribe had already acquired ample time! They obviously wouldn’t allow their opponents to retreat entirely! From the breathtaking depths of the Nydus Worm….burst forth a dazzling fantasy of shadows, multitudes of epic proportions of zerglings came pouring out wildly like a tsunami!
The Nydus Worm was at least as wide as 30 over metres. Moreover, the zerglings conducted themselves in an exceedingly nimble fashion, with two to three zerglings boring through from each metre radius of the Nydus Worm. That indicated that the sheer quantity of zerglings scuttling through the Nydus Worm at every second, at least amounted to nearly a hundred! Instantly, they formed into an insanely ravenous black arachnid sea that was as broad as 30 metres, colliding straight into the welcoming sight of the gradually retreating beast tide.
Obviously, the slingers were not carcasses, and clearly understood these incoming charge of crazed creatures were not here to shake their hands and become acquaintances. When these slightly thinner and slender arachnids sprinted in, they emitted not a single howl! Only the ‘shuashing’ sounds of their 4 legs rapidly dashing could be heard. When a thousand plus heads congregated together, it metamorphosed into an earth-shaking wave of fearsome resonance. Trudging forward while keeping silent; piercing in while keeping silent; slaughtering in while keeping silent!!
Upon entering the shooting range of the slingers, every single slinger immediately retaliated fully, propelling out their venomous stings! Thousands of venomous stings congregated, covering the sun rays as they casted shadows over the ground; as though a black cloud had enshrouded over.
At this moment, if one were to look down from a bird’s eye view, one would see a boundless sea of arachnid darkness; resembling a black belt as the sea flooded towards the circular mass of the beast tide. Following rainfall of venomous needles, as the black belt encroached into the ‘gallbladder’ looking beast tide, an abrupt chunk of it was carved away!
Yet such a scenario to the Blackthorn Overmind, was already commonplace. When arachnid races engaged in warfare, the zerglings would always act as vanguards; piling up as heaps of mutilated flesh and blood in the faces of their enemies, as they slowly grinded towards eventual victory!!!
The slingers incessantly propelled their venomous stings, as the arachnid ‘belt’ was repeatedly chiseled away distinctively. Instead from afar, Sheyan could observe exceedingly clear……..the gap between the arachnid sea and the beast tide, was evidently and slowly shortening!
Time seemed to slow down at this instant. It felt fairly long, but in reality, only 10 plus seconds had elapsed! The black belt constitution of the arachnid sea….
Clashed head on against the squarish formation of the beast horde!!!
Clearly seen at the moment of impact, the arachnid sea then flowed towards both sides like streaming water; appearing as if they actually treated the beast horde as dumpling wrapping practice.
At this moment, piercing screams of sorrows echoed through the skies. Zerglings, experts of close range battling, collided against the slingers, experts of far range battling. Yet with no gap between the two, the close combat troops evidently monopolized supremacy!!
Chapter 427: The Mother of the Blackthorns descends
Such a ludicrous massacre didn’t persist for long, and concluded in roughly 10 plus minutes. The battlefield lands were littered with endless carcassess that rapidly dissolved into the ground like snow. Instead, the gradually distinct outcome caused Sheyan to widened his eyes in amazement.
Within the battlefield spanning tens of square kilometres, a sole zergling rampantly lurched towards a badly beaten slinger, before cleaving through its throat with deadly sharp claws; feasting on its flesh and blood. Finally, like a wolf, the zergling released a penetrative howl towards the high heavens!!!
Witnessing such a scene, Sheyan couldn’t help but turn to observe that fatty bug; recalling their previous endeavours, where it was merely a Black-iron lord. Instead, the nightmare imprint priorly notified him that it was truly a Silver lord now…….if this outcome was truly his meticulous arrangement, then such a display of perfect warfare understanding, could only be described as truly frightening! It was no wonder the Blackthorn Overmind harbored the ambitions of replacing the era of the Blade Empress.
Whether it was a coincidence, the next battle will reveal it.
Sheyan couldn’t help but mumbled to himself. Having witnessed the entire sequence of events, Reef finally remarked earnestly.
I reckon it is time Mother Nature Eywa unveil her true strength.
Right.
Sheyan suddenly recalled something.
Where are the Takji clansmen?
Mogensha smiled bleakly.
They fled after witnessing the beast horde.
Sheyan responded indifferently.
Their beliefs revolve around Mother Nature Eywa. Upon witnessing the assembled beast tide of their old granny, they could only flee as far as they could. I hadn’t anticipate that a constructing arachnid base would sufficed to instigate such a beast horde. This debt must be settled in the future.
After speaking, Sheyan was unable to control his urge to advise the Blackthorn Overmind.
The next wave will surely be the true test. Let me transfer all my creature reports I have acquired to you.
However at this instant, Sheyan suddenly became aware of an oddity; it was as though the surrounding organ structures were all radiating with streams of black shimmering brilliance. If one were to describe the organ structures of the arachnid base previously as a semi-finished room, then their state right now, was like a newly refurbished room inlaid with ornamental ceramic tiles. One could evidently sense the breeding rate of arachnid lifeforms speeding up, and the incubating rate of organ structures propelling by a notch!
Within a split second, that class ‘III’ lair that was a substitute for the Mother Nest suddenly inflated, swelling to a height of nearly 200 metres; its periphery spouted forth with 8 incredibly obnoxious and coarse fleshy red tentacles, repeatedly dancing through the air. Moreover, its distinct exterior prune veins swelled rampantly as though it had hyperemia. Strange hexagon shaped, constituted with high purity pandora crystals, suddenly emerged from its already originally grand and malevolent organ roof!
Observing such an elevated momentum, its exterior appearance amplified with sinister savageness. Within this instant, don’t even mention about a Hometree with an altitude of 300 metres; only the sacred lands of the na’vi, the Tree of Souls, could be comparable!
The Mother of the Blackthorns has migrated over, right?
Mogensha couldn’t help but ask. As his words faded, the voice of the Mother of the Blackthorns resonated from the depths of their heart. 《 My friends, I express gratitude for your assistance. I can feel a tremendous mystical force from afar currently amassing various lifeforms in its bid to eradicate us 》
At this moment, Sheyan suddenly felt perplexed and swung round. Instead, he realized that massive toothy and fierce Nydus Worm was withering at a rate that even the naked eye could capture. He immediately gasped in shock.
O Mother of the Blackthorn, what is wrong with the Nydus Worm?
The Mother of the Blackthorn calmly replied.
《 The Nydus Worm connects two converging points of space, but in reality, it is of one body. Once the Nydus Worm on the other side is dead, the Nydus Worm here would naturally wither away. 》
Sheyan anxiously questioned.
But……
The Blackthorn Overmind interrupted him.
《 We’ve completely abandoned our base at that side. In reality, the ore mine we occupied there could at most support our harvesting for only 2 more months. However, there are wholly 4 hostile arachnid tribes situated around us. If we hadn’t left behind adequate forces to resist them, solely relying on the defensive Sunken and Spore Colonies wouldn’t be sufficient to last us for even 8 hours. 》
8 hours?
Sheyan doubtfully inquired.
The Mother of the Blackthorns patiently explained.
《 Conjuring a Nydus Worm requires the ability of quantum space folding, which leaves behind traces of meddling within the cosmic universe. If we had been unable to drag for 8 hours, the space vortex would not regain stability in time; allowing the possibility of others to perceive our location that, and seek out that we’ve migrated to this heaven like planet. Yet once we can drag for 8 hours, even if the Blade Empress had personally arrived, it would be utterly impossible to identify even tiny hints and clues. 》
Sheyan laughed sourly.
But…….you can even feel it. That tremendous mystical force is currently amassing her creatures in preparation for war. Without spawning and supplying reinforcements from the Nydus Worm, how would you hold ground here. Its offensive tempo accelerates ferociously with each wave, and could even pinpoint your weaknesses.
The Mother of the Blackthorn amicably answered.
《 Yes that force is tremendous, and the assembled multitudes of creatures equally dominant, yet……they aren’t born to this world for the sake of war. 》
For some unknown reason, upon hearing that final phrase from the Mother of the Blackthorns, Sheyan suddenly reminisced about the vast wilderness of carcass littered, the battlefields of desolation; then recalling the berserk manner of which the zergling had pursued the slinger. Sheyan’s heart was eventually soothed.
The ground tremored slightly,
Incomparably oppressive rumbles like that of a drumbeat! Leaving the innards of all creatures resonating with dreadfulness!
The echoes of gigantic beasts,
The resounding clamour produced by unrivalled colossal beasts, blessed by Mother Nature Eywa,
The sound of unceasing stampeding acceleration throughout the lands of Pandora!
This time, Eywa was furious! According to Sheyan’s estimation, there were at least 8 legendary creatures with health exceeding hundreds of thousands of points that led the charge; piercing forward with crackling sounds of thunder!!!
Behind them, was a blended mix of slingers, viperwolves and various other creatures.
Yet up against such domineering grandeur, were densely arranged rows of breeding eggs within the arachnid base; standing firmly in great numbers, soldiers of immense vigor!!!
When the beast horde had stampeded to a gap of 1 kilometre from the arachnid base……appalling cracks emerged on at least 30 of those massive 2 storey tall giga-eggs. Instantly, their shells split and shattered into fragments, producing gigantuous ‘beast’ that were 3 storeys in height, with their bodies clad in exoskeleton.
Upon their birth, the arachnid creatures speared forward towards the silent paths of the arachnid base! Amidst the intangible destitute, the arachnid’s disciplined killing intent of stern austerity was ready at the calling. Just listening to the rumbling tramples reverberating from the ground, one could adequately fathom the majestic loftiness of this arachnid army; brimming with an air of forward pressing desperation.
Examining the carapace of these gigantuous arachnids, it seemed to resemble the sturdiness of ancient era armours; exhibiting a remarkable bright bronze luster! The most shocking aspect was the twin giant crescent bone-like scythes protruding out from its mouth area. Those scythes were as long as half of the creature’s body. Such a gigantuous ferocious creature, was analogous to giant siege tanks. Not only that, beneath its fearsome chin, it boasted of sharp edges that could easily puncture any thick armour of various creatures.
(TN: Fun fact, the bone-like scythes of the ultralisks are actually called kaiser blades in starcraft.)
This was ultimate conventional unit of the arachnid race, the Ultralisk!
As they speared forward in advancement, successive large batches of eggs started hatching as well. When the raiding beast horde had reached 500 metres away from the arachnid base, the arachnid sea here had congregated to a junior scale; a marshalling mix of Ultralisks, zerglings, hydralisks and lurkers.
At that instant, the indomitable beast horde and the fearless arachnid sea collided! It was as though heaven and earth flashed with bouts of melancholy lightning, seemingly transforming the entire battlefield into snippets of frozened stopmotion. It was like even heaven and earth were bearing attention towards this war of unprecedented bloodbath, ingraining this impending event into memory!!!!!
The enormous kaiser blades of an Ultralisk stabbed deep into a Sturmbeest’s body, drawing out spurts of blood. Blessed by Mother Eywa, the Sturmbeest roared in anguish, firmly holding ground as it lashed forth with its monstrous body frame; as though it was a tiny mountain. The Ultralisk couldn’t pull out its enormous kaiser blades in time, as it emitted fracturing sounds into the air before snapping off; causing it to instantly lose balance and tumble to the ground.
Raising its front hoofs in raging agony, the Sturmbeest heavily stomped down. Even with a thickness of a metre, the chitin carapace couldn’t defy such tremendous strength by even the slightest bit. Even a distance of hundreds of metres couldn’t mask the horrifying sounds of bone shattering, as turbid red blood shot to heights of dozens of metres before drizzling onto the ground.
Yet instantly, 3 other ultralisks barreled forward in a frenzy! Hoisting forth their annular bone-scythes, they slashed deep against the Sturmbeest’s body! Such herculean strikes combined was sufficient to knock the Sturmbeest into staggering retreat! Instead, the Stumbeest’s response was to fly into a raging charge after stabilizing itself!
It had only one notion in its mind!
Charge forward!
Despite its circumstances, the Stumrbeest still managed to accelerate, as the long fur coated over its back fluttered against the sweeping wind. Whenever its massive body leapt up from the ground, its soft mane would paste against its tenacious leather. When its massive body landed back onto the ground, its soft mane would waft upwards; masquerading it in hazy dashing, as it ushered a complicated yet warm impression to others, brimming with force and fierce enchantment.
Streaks of thin and tiny dark figures swept past it incessantly! Indeed, those were zerglings unremarkable to behold. Though their claws couldn’t deal much threat to the Sturmbeest, but, the Ultralisks’ cutting kaiser blades had sliced out long threads of mutilated blood wounds, which became the focal point of target for these zerglings!
Chapter 428: Shunning and breaking off
Though the Sturmbeest’s charge retained a ferocious madness, with every passing black shadows, arcs of mournful blood trails splashed into the air. As it dashed onwards with great intensity, all sounds were drowned out; a silence enhancing the dismal solemness of the moment.
After charging forth for barely 50 metres, mangled flesh and blood drenched the Sturmbeest’s physique; every minute movement revealed another round of peeling flesh, another splintering of bones……….however, not a single harrowing cry came out from the Sturmbeest. It remained steadfast in its crestfallen charge; all because the moment it started accelerating in this direction, it had been instilled with this belief:
You must charge forward!
Fight for Mother Nature Eywa!
Unceasing assaults lacerated against the Sturmbeest, releasing layers over layers of blood rain; dyeing surrounding creatures from head to toe. So much so that the impression it gave off, was that of a giant sprinkler truck; employing its own blood to irrigate rocks and soil.
This gigantuous beast trembled with acute anguish, as loads of fresh blood spilled excessively. It wasn’t merely the superficial wounds, but also its brazen wild charge leading to an increased rate of blood loss! Yet right when its charge was only 200 metres away from the arachnid base, 2 Ultralisks that had just spawned speared in with astonishing pace. Instantly, the air rumbled with an intense collision.
4 devastating crescent sharp bone-scythes pierced deep into the Sturmbeest’s body. Following the inertia of the Sturmbeest, two profound blood ravines were carved out from its body; seemingly threatening to spew out the guts of the Sturmbeest.
Closely following, as that Sturmbeest slumped to the ground, 6 lurkers buried underground unleashed simultaneous impales. The ear-piercing sounds of metal chafing pierced into the air, as 6 stunning lethal spikes drilled out like waves, jabbing towards the Sturmbeest; dissecting it live, as dismembered flesh chunks brandished into the air.
Nevertheless, the Sturmbeest had become the vanguard arrow for the beast horde; spearing into the arachnid sea as the wild beasts swamped in crazily from behind, causing a substantial depression into the defensive line of the arachnids. A Thanator snarled and bolted in with unrivalled agility, crunching down on several lurkers underground and pulling them out, before flinging them into the sky. Instead, those few lurkers never made it to the ground, exploding into blood mist by the concentrated firepower of the slingers.
Clearly, the arachnid defence line had already been slowly pressured back to a basic 50 metres from their base. Multitudes of ruthless viperwolves continued to surge in relentless. At this moment, Queen-zerg Jenny finally floated in, prioritizing her aiming towards the spearheading Thanator, and shot out her fatal ‘Spore Fission’ ability!
This ability could deal a terrorizing imminent death effect to most creatures. Instead, when that fatal spore landed onto the Thanator, it rolled off sadly, and left nothing but a stain.
Immunity!
The blessing of Mother Nature Eywa was indeed not in vain.
Nevertheless, this arachnid queen-zerg contracted once again, and shot forth a greenish net that covered the skies and the earth; rustling like the sound of rain, it enveloped over hundreds of square metres of the wild beasts ahead. Though those wild beasts retained their savage ferocity, their movement speed and attack speed had greatly declined.
With such stalling tactics, yet another batch of newly hatched zerglings and ultralisks maliciously trampled forward to mend the gaps. From head to toe, every single stem cell of theirs were living for the sake of war. Storming the frontlines with vigor! Though this 50 metres gap was exceedingly close, it felt vaguely like the other end of the world! Clearly, the arachnid organ structures were within reach, sadly not even an inch could be breached!
The state of war had once again sunk into a stalemate, yet such a war of attrition was indeed unfavourable for Mother Nature Eywa! That was because the Blackthorn Tribe was an innate wartribe forged through hundreds and thousands of interstellar battles. Though they were bounded by certain unit quota, their forces flourished with constant replenishment through Pandora crystals and vespene gas; birthing out arachnid seedlings would merely require 2-3 minutes to join the battle, or at most 10 minutes!! Yet how many years would Mother Nature Eywa need to procreate and multiply her creatures to this state? 1 year, 10 years? 20 years?
It is true that, according to theory, the entire planet’s resources except for humankind, could be utilized as chess pieces by Eywa in her conquest for suppression. However, Eywa’s individual control of creatures was also limited. Apart from that, Eywa had to further consider the problem of ecology sustenance!
Hence, such a to-and-fro tussle persisted for scarcely 10 minutes before proclaiming its conclusion – the beast horde had very bluntly withdrawn. Obviously, Eywa had realized her nemesis’s understanding of warfare tactics had far exceeded herself. She could even perceive that her nemesis was fully exploiting her withdrawal to exhaust more of her military forces.
Sheyan sighed emphatically as he observed the current situation.
There shouldn’t be anything else we can do now.
Spectating the current scene, Brother black released an exhalation. In truth, amidst such a situation with layers upon layers of conflicting, it was simply inconceivable for them to attempt luring a legendary creature in as hunting it for gains. Such intensified and chaotic war was essentially a ludicrous whirlpool of meat grinders. Just by nearing it, one could face the possibility of being drawn in by inertia, and face untold treachery!
Instead, Reef hesitated as he voiced his worry.
But are we really not going to stay here? What if something crops up and requires our help?
However after he finished speaking, he himself shook his head and laughed despondently. Individual might was virtually shrunk to the bottommost limits of weakness when facing such scales of war. Even the combined might of the trio would barely stir up minimal influence towards this battle, but instead resulted in fatal risks. It could be said that the odds of participating and surviving, was far too low.
Sheyan heard him and similarly shook his head.
Remaining here is pretty much useless. Since Mother Nature Eywa couldn’t manage to level the Blackthorn tribe today, then her chances would be even lower by tomorrow. The only weakness of my plot resided in the moment the two drones begun constructing the initial hatcheries of the arachnid base, all the way till upgrading to class ‘II’ base and finally building the Queen-zerg tower. Once the Queen-zerg tower emerges, and connection between the Blackthorn tribe and I is established, then our business would be practically finalized; or perhaps I should say, resigning ourselves to fate.
(TN: fun fact, Queen-zerg is actually produced from the hatchery/lair/hive. So author probably refers to the research for spawning queen-zerg.)
Then what should we do now?
Brother Black started adjusting his belt before slapping his old pal – that Golden AK.
Sheyan replied without hesitation.
Since the feral beasts of wild nearby have all been assembled by the divinity Eywa, this signifies that mishaps resulting from encountering wildlife would be as good as zero. Thus, we naturally have to pay the Mosake Clan a visit, and probe the terrain around there to gather first hand information. Honing a hatchet wouldn’t delay chopping firewood. Although I have 18 days to stay, I can’t help feeling panic from a lack of time!
(TN: chinese idiom which means: Ample preparations results in faster completion of tasks)
Night time, within the forest of Pandora. The atmosphere clouded psychedelic obscurities, host to monstrously vibrant and multi-colored sceneries. Thousands of unique insect cries permeated the air, alongside a piercing nature fragrance. Such splendor was something the rainforest on earth could never portray.
Trekking forward through this area were 3 humans. If it was their first time arriving in Pandora, they would undoubtedly stop for the night before making plans for daylight. However, the trio had already accumulated plenty of experiences of jungle living. Thus, they continued probing forward with steadily slow speeds.
Their current location in this primitive rainforest, was already within 5 kilometres of the Windstone Highland. Sheyan and the rest were initially ferried by a Blackthorn overlord, but after not even 300 metres travelled, they realized such a conduct had instantly incurred the merciless wrath of the nature divinity, Eywa – 3 Mountain Banshees had swooped in while baring claws and widened fangs, causing Sheyan and the rest to flee in hurry.
After brief discussions, they could only employ one of their 3 remaining overlord eggs; attempting to ride in an overlord that belonged to themselves. This time, they smoothly succeeded, which was probably due to Eywa calculating that the humans probably offered no threat or disruption to the current pandora habitat. Hence, they were gloriously ignored.
According to the RDA report, Windstone highland was a flat plateau that encompassed nearly 20 – 30 square kilometres wide. Its shape resembled a short severed stump, but of course magnified by a million folds. Decorative vegetation grew over it that appeared identical to the meadows of high mountains, and the place could be described as an expansively spacious horizon. As a result, approaching it by air recklessly, would sustain tremendous risks. Thus, Sheyan and buddies planned to disembark inside the primitive jungle below first, before stealthily ascending to the summit.
According to their estimations, though there was still 5-6 kilometres to the Windstone Highland, the fierce wildlife inhabitants had already been summoned by Eywa as cannon fodder. Thus, it would only require about an hour before climbing up the plateau, to commence spying onto the devilishly powerful na’vi clan, the Mosake clan.
Instead, 2 full hours had already elapsed from them traversing this 5-6 kilometre journey. That was because they had encountered a devastating ambush! The ambushers originated from the forest, and were exceedingly thorny and unreasonable. Haggling them, were a bunch that seemed related to common chimpanzee monkeys, but possessed shocking levels of intelligence. They actually knew how to mount slingers! Observing the two inseparable creatures working together, one could tell they were more or less sinister sentinels groomed by the Mosake clan; a clan adept at taming wild beasts.
Such a creature wasn’t recorded inside the RDA report, and they had seemingly only heard of its identity from the Takji clan – known as the Betami-ghost ape. In the face of these monkeys, Sheyan was the one that suffered the worst setback. During a moment of carelessness, in order to evade the venomous sting of the slinger, his left leg was unexpectedly pinched by a Betami-ghost ape; which instantly and illogically left half of his body turning numb. He could only search for a relatively safe and empty place to defend himself and take a breather.
(TN: The Betami-ghost ape is a made up creature by the author. There is another monkey in avatar called Prolemuris but the description doesn’t match up.)
But at this instant, Sheyan focused his mind and immediately discovered that his surroundings had been encircled by 6 Betami-ghost apes. These native inhabitants were exceptionally vicious. When they mounted onto the slingers, their heights would absolutely not exceed 1.4 metres. They were coated in dark skin, with two streaks of grey down their backs. Such creatures would normally not live beyond 3 years.
Chapter 429: Ebola virus
The following was the details of Sheyan’s analysis – apart from that damnable toxins of these apes, they could further regurgitate vomit from their stomach to inflict damage onto foes. Not only did the vomit contain intense corrosive properties, it even emitted an incorrigible pungent stench that would adhere to one’s body; from then, it would be hard to escape the ape’s pursuit.
These brats possess very low HP, which is their fatal flaw!
Sheyan clutched his mouth as he coughed twice while speaking.
As his voice faded away, Reef charged forward with great strides!
At the instant he pierced forward, Mogensha had casually tossed out a flashbang that he had acquired from the RDA base previously. A blinding light flashed out, momentarily causing the Betami-ghost apes and slingers to shriek in mournful horror.
Facing such a scene, Reef had casually raised his arms to block his front; easily blocking away the reckless sprays of venomous stings from the flustered slingers. Following that, he sunk his leg and rolled forward, using his bulky arms to forcefully wrap around the neck of a tiny and short betami-ghost ape in front of him. Instantly, gloomy crackles of brittle fracturing pierced into the air. This poor devil who had originally sustained injuries previously, immediately spat out repulsively sordid blood, as its long tongue rolled out of its mouth. Convulsing, it perished.
Within the next second, Reef unleashed strength from his holding arm, as he utilized the Betami-ghost ape carcass, that was still warm, as a weapon. Waving the carcass in a semi-circle in midair, he directly flung it towards two other mounted Betami-ghost apes that were currently hiding themselves!
The two semi-blinded monkeys clawed wildly, ripping the fur from their comrade’s carcass with maddened frenzy. However, such an action offered no relief from their current danger; because Reef had already ploughed to their faces. With his black lightsaber stroking gently under the night sky, he delivered unceasingly cauterized lacerations onto the devilish like apes!
By this point, Brother Black had released chains of burst fires, and a translucent viperwolf undying spirit had since materialized within the dark of night. The viperwolf spirit had immediately lurched towards another two Betami-ghost apes on the other side. Presently, those two Betami-ghost apes had already gradually regained their vision. Not only did their slinger mounts locked onto the viperwolf spirit and unleashed venomous stings, they similarly widened their mouths; releasing two jets of muddy green vomit over. Instantaneously, the atmosphere was polluted with a sour pungent stench that assailed their nostrils.
Yet since the viperwolf was also known as an ‘undying spirit’, naturally it was without a single heartbeat just like a zombie. Therefore, it obviously had no blood flow, and without blood flow, naturally the venomous toxins were incapable of propagating. As for the vomit, to a spirit that didn’t require breathing, it offered not the slightest threat.
After slaying a Betami-ghost ape at his side, Reef spun round but was instantly amazed to discover all the remaining foes on scene, had already became carcasses! Not only that but amidst the forest, two additional translucent light-blue luminous viperwolf spirits had appeared; and were voraciously gnawing through the ape carcasses. The might of that black grade necklace was fully demonstrated in this battle. After Mogensha had put on that black grade necklace, he could now be described as a tiger that had grew wings.
Those Betami-ghost apes belonged to a model of high offense and low defence. Sheyan was indeed unfortunate, because for some unknown reason, after waiting an entire half an hour, his legs hadn’t showed signs of recovery. Thus, the trio were currently forced into a choiceless situation, and could only search for an easy-to-guard location before raising a bonfire.
Brother Black stationed himself on a faraway tree crown, providing him a vantage position to engage in gunfire suppression. He silently stayed while leaning against the tree bark like a mannequin. One had to mention; though Mongensha normally loved to inject occasional humour, he wasn’t the least bit careless in conducting official matters. Assuming the sentry role, he appeared as if he was born for the solitary of darkness, seemingly devoid of heartbeat or body warmth.
Previously, after considering the question of wildlife camping and survivability, Reef had also purchased several equipments from the RDA base in preparation.
Apart from the latest ‘Duodate’ infrared ray triggering surveillance eye, monitoring their campsite surroundings, there was the Dupoint company’s ‘Aotearoa’ water filter system.
And apart from their 3 layered carbon-silk ‘Kemasi’ tent, that could effectively obstruct poisonous snakes and insects from invading, they also had various incredibly advanced and high tech weapons.
Of course, the most formidable was a tiny red dot that drifted about the forest surrounding their camp, which was the fleeting tracer of an infrared surveillance eye. An easily installable and foldable electromagnetic guide conductor encircled their camp, equipped with 4 camouflaged advanced fire-control system. This was indeed the minimized version of the weaponry system hosted by the outer walls of Hell’s Gate.
Through the process of the fire-control systems patrolling through the guide conductor, the infrared surveillance eye would vigilantly survey the surrounding movements. Upon detecting something amiss, the two advanced automatic fire-control system would roll out two pre installed Standard-issue assault rifles; pouring down fiery storms of metal within a split second, annihilating all creatures that dared to encroach within 30 metres radius of the camp.
In view of the comprehensive properties of the Standard-issue assault rifle, the fire-control system could further calculate the volume of the invading hostiles; thus, it could automatically switch to rifle-grenade mode before unleashing fire!
While the other two fire-control systems were equipped with a MBS-22 automatic sentinel machine gun, with an outer appearance resembling the MBS-9M Hydra rifle. The MBS-22 rifle body composed of 3 independent fully automatic rifle barrels. Regarding its powerful fire output, it could easily conjure up an exceptionally frightening metallic storm. Due to its nature of exhausting ammunitions at a terrifying rate, it wasn’t normally mobilized. Yet once it was, long range control orders could still be employed to contain its fire output rate, and offensive direction etc.
Under normal circumstances, the standard-issue assault rifle would act as a precautionary warning alarm with its outburst of bullets. Therefore, at this moment, the members of this campsite was able to sleep peacefully. But once, that automatic sentinel machine gun was triggered, then undoubtedly, hostiles with malicious intent were present; moreover, they would be extensively stronger ones. When that happens, it would signify bed time was over, that it was time to pay attention to the enemy.
After resting for nearly 3 hours, where daylight was probably round the corner, at this very moment………..all of a sudden, the watchful firearms of the camp spat out streaks of fiery tongues; the surveillance eye had locked onto a target! In a flash, the fuming bellows of the standard-issue assault rifle resounded out, along with expulsions by the rifle-grenade. Finally, even the automatic sentinel machine gun was activated, unleashing bouts of gunfires; roaring like the engine of a motorbike. The air sprinkled with thickly dotted mess of blazing networks.
Amidst the immense blaze and sounds of explosions, over ten strange shadows shuttled through the forest and subsequently showed themselves. Amongst which was one who appeared significantly larger, emanating a greater ferocity. Sheyan instantly sensed a surge of violent threat, stirring him awake as he climbed up from his slumber. Immediately, he utilized his helmet’s innate ‘Pulse Detector’ probing ability to investigate, and instantly acquired a detailed report:
[ Name: Bloodbringer Larynx ]
[ Race: Betami-Ghost ape ]
[ Rank: Junior tier legendary creature ]
[ Status: Mosake clan warrior ]
[ Height: 1.14 m ]
[ Weight: 38 kg ]
[ Mount: Elite Slinger ]
[ Strength: 29 points ]
[ Agility: 41 points ]
[ Physique 10 points ]
[ Perceptive sense: 30 points ]
[ Charm: 1 point ]
[ Intelligence: 14 points ]
[ Spirit: 19 points ]
[ Basic footwork lvl 7. Other properties: ? ? ? ]
[ Junior tier legendary creature ability: ‘Mother-earth Skin lvl 1’ – Grants bonus 5,000 HP. ]
[ Mosake clan warrior ability: ‘Divine Beast Blessings lvl 1’ – Grants bonus 10,000 HP. ]
[ Betami-Ghost ape special ability: ‘Fluttering leap’ – this incomparably nimble freak can leap from impossible angles to assault enemies. Raises attack power by 255% and attack range by 200%. Executing this ability requires 3-5 seconds of cast time. ]
[ Betami-Ghost ape special ability: ‘Ebola II model (Passive)’ – When the Betami-Ghost ape strikes its opponent, there is a 50% chance of inflicting toxin into the enemy; lowering 33% movement and attack speed. 10% chance of inflicting illusion overgrowth, confusion the enemy and lowers their accuracy by 33%. 3% chance of temporary infecting the enemy with the Ebola virus, resulting in limbs paralysis which lowers movement and attack speed by 70%. All duration lasts for 300 seconds – 24 hours, depending on purely randomization. ]
[ Details: Simultaneously when contaminating the enemy with Ebola virus, 1,000 HP would be deducted from the Betami-Ghost ape. ]
[ Individual special ability: ‘Chain vomiting’ – unleash sprays of vomit at the opponent. Deals persisting damages (DPS – damage per second) and also repeatedly torments the enemy with foul stench – plunging health by 33%. ]
[ Individual special ability: ??? ]
After browsing through the specifics of this brute, Sheyan was finally aware that he had ‘fortunately’ encountered a minute probability occurrence – naturally an adverse one. This Junior-tier legendary creature already possessed such a dim probability of infecting one with an ‘Ebola ii virus’. Naturally, an ordinary ghost ape though it wasn’t explained, would obviously hold a smaller percentage of contaminating foes with an ‘Ebola i virus’!
Since they now knew how filthy, nasty and lowly the flock of monkeys were, then naturally the expert of long rage assaults, Brother Black, proactively led the onslaught. Seizing the openings created by the firepower suppression of the automatic fire-system, Mogensha immediately hurled out his personal ‘Sparta Spear’. A sorrowful chain lightning bolted through the forest, with its main focus naturally skewed towards eliminating the lil brothers of that legendary creature! Afterward, they would then conveniently dispatch the legendary creature, to prevent any unrelated elements from upsetting the apple cart!
The biggest flaw of the Betami-ghost apes resided in its frail HP. Once one was slain, the slinger mounts would seemingly be covered by amnesty; as long as they didn’t continue agitating the slingers, the slingers would voluntarily escape in panic. This pack of Betami-ghost apes were most adept in stealthily creeping up on their foes and ambushing them, finally swarming forth like bees and indulging into chaotic wild battling. They relied on the stink, sores, and innumerable successive stackings of vile buffs onto their opponent, before pouncing on foes to death.
Chapter 430: Deceased monkeys
Although these cunning and nasty Betami-ghost apes fought with an effective method that could frequently leave expert creatures in shambles; in regards to this fighting style, it relied on one crucial aspect – it was essential for them to strike under stealth and unexpectedness! However, their concealment had been foiled and were discovered earlier on by the fire-control systems. Instead, torrents of crazed fire greeted them. From the ambushers, they became the ambushed.
Following that, they suffered from Brother Black’s spear in the form of an abrupt chain lightning. From here on, casualties piled up. When Reef had managed to charge over and released a ‘Shattering Cardiac Roar’, apart from the leader Bloodbringer Larynx, everyone else were seemingly slayed.
Sheyan had noticed the 29 points of strength this ape had, and reckoned he wouldn’t be able to inflict crushing damage. Hence, he directly hurled a flask of agile curse-mix over. Though a deduction of 4 points of agility cannot be considered much, a 10% speed decline still considered pretty good.
(TN: Bloodbringer Larynx has 41 points agility, so 4 points translate to around 10%)
As soon as the monkeys had shown their faces, disaster struck them; and its little brothers paid the heavy cost of death. Naturally, Bloodbringer Larynx reached the emotional pinnacle of discomfort. Thus, it roared fanatically and directly controlled the slinger beneath to charge forward. Yet clearly, this monkey hadn’t loss all rationality. It craftily curled up and huddled behind the slingers’s back, trying its utmost to utilize its mount to endure Mogensha’s torrents of bullets.
Due to the slinger thundering in at a rapid speed, it remained unfallen even after being struck by bullets, with blood streaming profusely. Instead, its inertia propelled it forward unyieldingly. Thus, this vile and beastly monkey appeared barreling through inundating mists of blood, mixed with the occasional tinge of poisonous black blood.
Facing such a speedy opponent, Mogensha frowned as he fired 3 blazing bullets; which blatantly collided in midair and exploded! The result was an AOE fiery blast. Caught inside the exploding combustion, the blood streaming out from the slinger and the Betami-ghost ape boss underwent an unexpectedly shocking reaction. Boom! The blood ignited with flames!
The inferno surprisingly adorned a blood red appearance, leaping and churning hectically; releasing a flexible impression. The flames resembled tongues of bloodthirsty feral beast, incessantly lapping up fresh blood; thriving with cruel bloodlust!
However in the next second, Mogensha was completely unable to react in time to the charging monkey, and was rammed off from his vantage concealing position. Groaning as he made a row after crashing to the ground, he discovered a long charred wound carved out from his chest. Moreover, the wound was still corroding rapidly! It also emitted a pungent odour.
Fortunately at this instant, though Sheyan still had a crippled leg, he managed to raise up his ‘Nail Gun’ and aimed; his action done while still hiding inside the camp. Nevertheless, as for why Reef hadn’t activated ‘Courage’ to rescue Mogensha, it was firstly due to his confidence in Mogensha. Secondly, he inevitably had to safeguard Sheyan whose mobility was currently lacking.
A bullet of unparalleled sharpness soared out, creating circular ripples of surging trajectory in the air. During its path, it rippled through a tree branch, shredded a leaf, and accurately drilled into the rear leg of that elite slinger. Pzzt! It easily penetrated through its unprotected thigh, and pierced into the shin of the Betami-ghost ape boss!!!
Killing two birds with one stone!
The aftermath of that shot – gearing to charge in pursuit, the elite slinger’s rear leg was now visibly twisted into a grotesque fold. Concurrently, the Betami-ghost ape who was waving its claws with unmatched ecstasy, unexpectedly lost balance after its mount suffered serious damage; and nearly fell flat on its face.
Yet at this point, the Betami-ghost ape finally felt a searing pain in its shin, as lively spurts of blood emerged. Beneath its waist, the slinger hissed miserably under the torture of such intense agony; before abandoning its owner as it darted into the forest.
Faraway, Sheyan was presently half-kneeling with squinted eyes as he supported his gun with both hands. His hand was as stable as a boulder. That shot was indeed released by him! Upon witnessing his successful marksmanship, he couldn’t resist the impulse to clench his fist in self encouragement.
After landing and executing a roll, Brother Black maintained his balance. Yet, probably due to aggravating his chest wound, he couldn’t help groaning deeply, but still remembered to raise a thumbs up to Sheyan. Simultaneously, two light-blue viperwolf undying spirit had bulged from behind Mogensha’s back and dashed out. Howling menacingly as they bared their incomparably vicious fangs, pouncing fiercely at their rival.
Those two viperwolf spirits had actually been trigger summoned when Mogensha had hurled out his ‘Sparta Spear’ previously. With that ‘javelin’ toss jolting through foes like a chain lightning, good luck also had a part to play, as one assault actually managed to summon out two spirits successfully.
Abruptly sustaining injuries, Bloodbringer Larynx raged out and unleashed a piercing roar. Its mouth widened so expansively, that one could even observe the lymphatic node squirming in the depths of its larynx. Immediately, Bloodbringer Larynx begun jetting out a turbid yellowish-green vomit that extended to over 20 metres! When Sheyan had opened fire, he obviously knew he would have to suffer its vengeful wrath. There was nothing he could do about it, and had chosen to flee beforehand like a scoundrel.
Instead, the piping hot vomit was regurgitated onto that ‘Nail Gun’ that Sheyan had carelessly left behind! The corrosive nature of its vomit was exceedingly potent, as bulks of acidic vapour rose into the air from the gun’s metallic surface. A repulsive acidic stench permeated into the atmosphere, causing anyone who whiffed it to nauseate. It was a pity, such a good gun that exhausted quite a hefty sum became invalid from henceforth.
Reef suddenly frowned.
Let’s us hurry and conclude this battle. I’m afraid the regurgitated vomit isn’t merely used for harming and tracking. It can also be employed to seek reinforcements.
As his words faded, the nimble ape had already leapt in front of Reef. With an uncanny cray, it pushed forward its claws and pinched. Fortunately, Reef’s wasn’t weak in reacting. Raising his shield to block, he resisted the monkey’s pinch. Though that was so, its claw still punched an oppressive sound onto the ‘Alien Skull’, scraping out glaring sparks!
Yet right at this instant, Reef already activated the natural ability of his shield – ‘Tongue Thrust’ !
Shua! An oddly sharp tongue catapulted out from the mouth of the Alien skull. The tip of the tongue even hosted sharp ivory tooths, and hastily gnawed at the monkey’s chest. While inflicting damage, it even induced a stunning state.
Meanwhile, Mogensha had pulled out his Wasp revolver, as he half-knelt and aimed over. Then, he activated ‘Beastly Instincts’, allowing his formidable battle spatial awareness to select the optimal offensive target! At this moment, Mogensha could feel a throbbing pain in his head, coupled with an unexplainable burning sensation; as though his MP was depleting fully.
Instantly, the bullets within the Wasp revolver was unloaded fully. Without mercy, the bullets pierced into the body of that disgusting and stinky monkey, before mutual internal collisions unleashed an exceedingly vigorous chain of explosions! Immediately, a blaze curled to life alongside the stench of scorched matter. Preceding that, Reef had already been warned by Mogensha, exclaiming to him,
careful!
. Thus, to avoid friendly fire, Reef had sent the monkey flying with a kick first, before Mogensha had opened fire.
Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Mini explosions transmitted in succession, sending the fried monkey flying while utterly wrapping it in smog and flames. When the monkey crashed to the ground, it was completely unable to maintain balance; attempting with its might to stand but could only repetitively collapse down. It currently exhibited an unbearably hot and restless countenance, as its innards had visibly spewed out. It was clear the monkey had suffered extremely severed injuries as it repeatedly coughed out greenish black pus.
Actually, the explosions didn’t appear very intense, but Sheyan could distinctly sense the concentrated might within those explosions; therefore though they appeared lacking in extravagance, they couldn’t be described as weak. Around the periphery of its core injury from the explosion, not only had its blood all evaporated, even its flesh seemed to have been grinded away; with remnant embers still nibbling at its belly, roasting with sizzles!
Evidently, this strike from Mogensha had dealt grave damages to it. All of a sudden, a black shadow scuttled out from nowhere and hoisted the ape up before fleeing. It was actually that elite slinger mount!
That slinger had originally fled with a broken leg, yet nobody would’ve expected it brazenly return to rescue its owner. The stranger part was, a slinger’s movement speed could normally count as its shortcoming, being creatures merely adept at shadowing others. Yet nobody could imagine this elite slinger was so valiant; even with a fractured leg, it could still sprint away with unbelievable speed.
Chase!
Sheyan immediately snapped. Although his legs were still inconvenient, he braced himself with a wooden branch and limped in pursuit.
Of course, Mogensha and Reef weren’t willing to stay their hands as well, and set off in hot pursuit. Towards a prey that was heavily wounded, further intense running movement would result in aggravating its wounds! Moreover, the foul stench coming from the monkey’s body had transformed into their greatest tracking trail. Very swiftly, following the dispersing sounds of urgent footsteps, and after having experienced this brief clamorous uproar, the forest regained its tranquility…
Blood droplets dripped continually.
Flowing out from a badly mangled flesh window.
Flowing through a muddled mess of fur.
Flowing through the air of planet Pandora.
Finally, it splashed onto the ground.
If one peered backwards, one would notice speckles of bloodstains implicating into a meandering trail. The blood traces seemingly manifested into a roadsign wherever it went.
A slinger with only 5 legs arched its crooked back forward, as it hobbled up a challenging and steep slope.
The monkey carried over its back, would occasionally sink into fits of violent coughing; coughing as though its heart was tearing apart, wanting to stop but unable to do so. Such dry coughing held no other significance, apart than speeding up its blood loss.
Chapter 431: The apprehended contestant
Yet no matter how hard it tried to cough, it failed to squeeze out the blood lodged inside its lungs. Naturally, the functional capacity of its lungs consistently declined, along with the gradual streams of blood from its bodily wounds.
DA! DA! DA! Once again, fatal gunfire echoed in from afar. Several bullets struck against the rocks of the steep slope right ahead; scraping out fireworks of sparks. Yet one bullet managed to drill into the slinger’s body once again, as fresh blood squirted against the besiding rocks.
As it ascended this precipitous slope, the slinger was already covered in bruises and cuts. Thus, this bullet became the final straw to overwhelm the camel. Instantaneously, energy seemed to have leaked out from head to toe. Kuk Klak Kuk Klak, the slinger tumbled down the hill, convulsing slightly before its breathing halted. Instead, after the Betami-Ghost Ape had wretchedly rolled down with it, it released a whine of matchless misery; a whine of limitless agony. To their surprise, it suddenly bounced towards Mogensha, as it lunged with incomparable maliciousness.
During their pursuit, Mogensha was the culprit who drained its HP extensively. Now, he lifted his rifle and strafed. Knowing that this monkey was incredibly agile, the 5 rounds of AK bullets mutually collided in mid air, unleashing an explosion of substantial magnitude as bullet fragments scattered randomly; instantly resulting in an AOE damage.
The Betami-Ghost ape was already an arrow at the end of its flight, and was now the recipient of a violent explosion. Thus, this savage and filthy monkey followed the footsteps of its mount, and slumped to the ground. After a fit of acute bellowing and gasps for breath, it ceased to get up for all eternity. Its body had been minimally ravaged by 7-8 frags of bullets, and relentless fumes and flames gradually consumed its body; producing pitter-patter sounds of flesh being roasted.
By now, Reef had hurriedly rushed over. Not long later, Sheyan too, hastily arrived. That ‘Ebola i Virus’ that he was plagued with had finally dispersed. Such was the soothing sensation of having finally escaped the awkward state of hobbling around like a cripple.
An unexpected event occurred – the silver key dropped by the legendary creature, Betami-ghost ape, was actually a ‘smuggled goods’ type. It produced a single-item eruption, directly awarding them with an entire 20 potential points. Instead, it was its slinger mount that actually dropped a legit black key. However, there was a decline in fortunes this time, and the black key displayed a dark-blue grade ring. However, upon examining the attributes of this ring, it caused them to click their tongues in wonder.
[ Slinger’s Eyeball ]
[ Equipment rarity: Dark-blue ]
[ Equipment effect: Increase wielder’s ‘Basic long range combat’ by 2 levels. This boost cannot be applied to contestants with Basic long range combat’ exceeding lvl 10.
(For example, the current ‘Basic long range combat’ ability of Mongensha was lvl 10, then equipping this ring would supposedly raise it to lvl 12. Instead, this effect will be invalid.) ]
[ Details: Wielding this ring would not trigger bonus reward drawing options, but only the bonus from the leveling.
(For example, when someone with ‘Basic long range combat lvl 2’ acquires this ring, his ‘basic long range combat’ would be boosted to lvl 4. Under normal circumstances, lvl 4 would trigger bonus reward options. However, it will not happen. Only when the user’s pure ‘basic long range combat’ reaches lvl 4 would that reward option be triggered) ]
[ Equipment requirement: Strength 30 points, Physique 30 points. ]
[ Equipment position: Finger ]
[ Material: Chitin, carbohydrate, protein ]
[ Weight: 4 g ]
[ Description: This equipment is only dropped from a high level slinger in the Avatar world. ]
[ Description: Slingers relies on their incisive visual prowess to roam through dense jungles, and spray accurate and fatal stings at foes. If you can obtain it, you would roughly grasp half of a slinger’s aiming tactics! ]
Although this dark-blue grade ring only contained one enhancing property, if one were to exhibit that property to public, it would lead to brawling over it!
If this ring was given to a contestant with a poor level of ‘Basic long range combat’ ability, it would be rendered useless. Yet for a contestant who had raised that ability to lvl 6 or 7, for them to continue upgrading it, they probably had to squander massive loads of utility points and potential points to advance by one step! Therefore, if they could earn an additional 2 levels, it would obviously be exceedingly valuable.
However, it had an absurdly ridiculous wielding requirement – 30 points of strength and physique!!!
Mogensha contemplated briefly being pooling the equipments of the trio together. Still, he wasn’t able to attain 30 points of strength….and could only sigh dejectedly. Sheyan was in possession of his ‘Barbaric-demon Pupil’ and his ‘Rotten-bone Ring’, and his ring slots were all filled. Instead, it was Reef who had a vacant ring slot, and thus casually equipped it for fun. When Mogensha manages to amass 30 points of strength, he would then return it to Mogensha. The trio were all curious as to what improvements it conferred. Thus, Reef flashed out his hand-darts, something that would be influenced by ‘Basic long range combat’……..
(TN: Reef acquired his hand-darts in ch 69, after they killed Reserve-duty Growth-hunter Zeiss.Carl)
The trio gazed upon the precipitous slope right ahead; knowing that the maddened monkey must’ve fled towards this direction for a reason, and possibly, its summit hosted the residence of the Mosake clan. Presently, the sky had already brightened up. However, considering that na’vi warriors possess night vision capabilities, daylight was instead more advantageous to them.
After a discussion, the trio felt that since they had already arrived here without startling the forces of the Mosake clan, then why not climb up for a peep. At the very least, they should first witness the topography of their area, before making further plans.
Though this precipitous slope was arduously steep, and could act as a heavenly moat to deter ordinary individuals; to the trio, it could only be described as exhausting trivial physical efforts. However, when they finally scaled the precipitous slope, they subconsciously held their breaths.
Because at the peak of this slope, was a stunning expanse of flat land, stretching as far as their eyes could behold. Just observing this flatland resulted in an impression of boundless might, spanning wide their horizons. The majority of the grass here sprouted directly from the ground and laid low. Vividly seen, were sporadic scatters of pillow sized greyish rocks, revealing glossy surfaces and dotted with excessive holes.
These rock fragments looked like magma condensed pumice rocks from the aftermath of a volcanic eruption. They were incredibly light and could even float on water surfaces. With a gentle breeze of wind, these rocks would roll slightly. Hence, the name Windstone Highlands.
Several kilometres away from where Sheyan and them resided, a continuous link of buildings built with stones were erected. Those buildings were pieced together by stones, and exhibited a miraculous beauty. Not forgetting those spiralling stone pathways winding around in accordance to the architecture topography of those 3 layered, 4 layered buildings. Suspended vine bridges connected several buildings, while numerous primitive pulley systems were present; systems which counted on herculean beasts to operate. Combining everything together, it was truly an engineering landscape worthy of marvelling.
These pathways, suspended bridges, houses and pulley systems exhibited a scene of thriving vitality; so much so that it felt like a human market was hosted inside. To the Mosake clansmen who manufactured these and were still utilizing them, such bearing and boldness was indeed a praiseworthy spectacle.
At present, after spying that the building lacked presence, Sheyan and buddies cautiously crawled nearer with their bellies pasted to the ground. After proceeding like this for a definite distance, they finally realized that it wasn’t that there was no one; but rather, the na’vi clansmen were all congregated in front of their temple, and were currently engaging in religious formalities.
This corrupted clan had indeed raised a magnificently grand temple. At first glance, it would appear to resemble Mayan Pyramids. However, from its contours, it held certain similarities with the Temple of Heaven in China.
Under the bright of dawn, cooling breeze and the morning sun; the temple boasted of an intriguing, mystical and gorgeous scenery.
Within the vast ceremonial plaza in front of the temple, numerous and closely packed na’vis were kneeling fully. Apart from them, solitary rays of the sun cascaded down beside several hovering boulders.
The vegetation encompassing the temple was rather luxuriant, with circular white rocks coiling around it to form a pathway. Countless basin thick stone pillars stood atop the periphery of the ceremonial plaza, with the tallest being 7-8 metres and the shortest 3-5 meters. They stood in weird, orderly, tenacious and spectacular fashion; propping up in commemoration of their firm beliefs. These obelisks had wave patterns engraved onto them.
All of a sudden, a na’vi leader released a rallying cry. Although he was poles apart from Sheyan and friends, they could still sense their blood surging from that roar; blood boiling turbulently, and rushing towards their hearts like a majestic tide!
Following that, that na’vi leapt onto an unbelievably titanic Black Thanator. Lifting his arms, they had no clue what he was exclaiming to his clansmen…….meanwhile, his clansmen would occasionally stretch forth their arms and shout sonorously in response. No doubt, that na’vi should be the chieftain, Cherokee.
Tier 6.
Mogensha suddenly blabbered into the party channel without thinking.
Reef immediately refuted.
Impossible! It is at least a tier 7. Such forceful suppression, I’m afraid it isn’t inferior to that great octopus, Ocean-freak Moria, of the Lord of the Rings world.
Sheyan snorted coldly in response.
Who cares what tier it belongs to. When our zergling sea of thousands drowns it……. Previously, I’ve already inquired from Moat; as long as their Temple isn’t destroyed, even na
vis that turn corrupted shouldn’t be willing to relinquish their beliefs and abandon the Hometree.
Observing the na’vi’s prayer ceremony about to adjourn, and having attained their basic exploration goals, Sheyan and his bros planned to withdraw.
Eiyy!?
Yet at this moment, Mogensha suddenly gasped in surprise.
Guys look, there seems to be someone.
Sheyan and Reef too were taken aback. Did a RDA worker get kidnapped? Hastily, they spied towards the direction where Mogensha was pointing. Instead, they caught glimpse of a humongous Sturmbeest currently crawling through, with a wooden prisoner cage hoisted on its back. Contained within, was a person with bounded limbs; unsure if dead or alive.
Furthermore, a large crowd of na’vis had started encircling it, raising their weapons and cheering sonorously. It appeared that apprehended individual inside the cage had aroused public anger, and thus, became the object of indignation of a thousand folks.
Chapter 432: Grazing and assaulting
As the trio observed this unexpected scene, they couldn’t help becoming intrigued. Thus, they didn’t resist the urge to stealthily creep forward, under the pretext of the pumice rocks of the Windstone Highland. Sheyan’s perceptive sense was the highest; hence after encroaching in for several hundreds of metres, he could already differentiate acute wrath seeping in from afar, along with angry shoutings.
Kill him, kill him!!!!!!
Suddenly, a na’vi stood atop the back of his enormous Hammerhead-titanothere mount, and waved his burly arms towards the pack of agitated clansmen beneath him before calling out.
I am a member of the Mosake clan! Hear my words!
It appeared that this na’vi probably owned a rather high status. Beside Cherokee, an old woman adorned with a red feathered crest stood forward; gesturing to the crowd to calm down. Then, that na’vi standing atop his warbeast continued announcing loudly.
I’ve personally captured this blasted outsider. He has caused a total of 4 fellow clansmen to return to the dark abyss of the ocean, and even slew 17 from our partners. Yes, I too desire to watch him die! Yet, I have to acknowledge the formidable strength he possesses – a strength worthy of respect!
Therefore, I wish to bestow him an honorable death! Not one that involves humiliation, not one that involves random hacking, only to be excreted from the rectum of wild beasts in the end. This is my right! Anyone that isn’t satisfied can step forward to challenge me!
The crowd simultaneously quieted down, without any potential challengers appearing. Cherokee stroked the head of his Thanator, and declared with a heavy tone.
Yes, Authe, that is your right. Nobody has an objection.
With his flaring temperament, Authe leapt down from his mount, before sauntering uprightly and unafraid before his clansmen. Finally, he faced the convict held inside the wooden cage and spoke.
Outsider! I very benevolently allow you to choose your manner of death, now, please tell me your decision.
At this moment, that outsider lifted his head. In that instant, the hearts of Sheyan and buddies shuddered in unison. As it turns out, this man was someone that recognized. indeed, it was that outrageously powerful expert sniper! Yet for unknown reasons, he actually managed to remain in this world till now. Moreover, as he faced such desperate straits, he wasn’t the least bit flustered!
At this point, Brother Black whispered.
He should be in possession of an item that allows him instant return to the nightmare realm, at anytime and place. I’ve previously seen the Metals Professor employing it before.
Reef asked curiously.
There’s such an amazing item?
Brother Black chortled in response.
Its usage requirements are exceedingly harsh, lowering all attributes by 5 points. Moreover, all rewards and missions obtained from this world would be discarded, returning to the state before one had entered that world. However, it is still much better than losing one’s life.
Because that individual had actually prolonged his stay in this world, hence Sheyan immediately started contemplating the possibility of Zi and her pack staying as well. Yet after having second thoughts, he mused. It didn’t matter if they stayed behind. With the imposing Blackthorn tribe having been established, other elements could no longer offer a single influence to Sheyan’s schemes.
Instead, for that powerful sniper to be captured and still remain till now, most likely he had hidden tricks. Just like the item that Mogensha had just mentioned, or perhaps some form of untold mystical life preserving method –– of course one couldn’t dispute the price needed to rescue oneself during critical moments, would surely be relatively costly.
Right now, that sniper finally opened his mouth. His voice wasn’t loud, but was extremely firm.
Before I die, I wish to cleanse my body with water, then be buried in the river without shedding blood.
Sheyan’s eyes sparkled as he listened.
That brat is indeed savvy, where would you find a river on this Windstone Highland? He is obviously dragging for more time. Besides during the process of escorting, there would be opportunities to escape.
Having heard his final request, Authe replied without hesitation.
Fine, I accede to that! It will be my turn for shepherding three days from now. When that time arrives, I will surely grant you your heart’s desire!
After spectating these events, Sheyan’s trio proceeded to retreat further. After scanning their environment briefly, they realized the location they ascended from was indeed more precipitous, which was western side of Windstone Highland. As for the southern side, an abrupt depression had been formed, just like a tiny blemish of a bowl. Descending from there, was a relatively gentler slope. It seemed like under normal circumstances, the na’vi clansmen would travel to and fro from that slope.
When Sheyan and buddies had decided to leave, the ground suddenly tremored slightly. Very quickly, they witnessed a view of an astounding multitude of direhorses galloping speedily down the southern slope. Several na’vi folk were loudly shouting around them, prompting the herd of horses to a distant location.
Ah, that should be what they call shepherding.
Sheyan mumbled.
So that’s the case. The Mosake clan had already completely abscised from their hunting livelihood. Their clan members includes their wild beasts, which is extremely taxing on food. Thus, they adopted shepherding methods to ensure the stable survivability of their clan.
At this moment, he suddenly reminisced about their former journey to Hell’s Gate base – The contestants had paused to rest beside a particular stream of river, which boasted of exceedingly scenic views. Moreover, there were artificially planted fields of crane flower like vegetation. According to the Illume-Union’s Yuan Zhan’s depiction, direhorses require to take in nectar to condition their bodies at periodic intervals. Nectar to them was like table salt, and hence, that place was undoubtedly a direhorse paradise.
After presently recalling about that, that flower field was possibly a specially cultivated grazing field of the Mosake clan, utilized to rear direhorses.
Since they had already gathered adequate intelligence, Sheyan and buddies were naturally unwilling for side issues to arise. They prudently climbed down Windstone Highland, before boarding their arachnid Overlord flight back to the Blackthorn tribe. To the trio, though the entrenched district of the arachnids was unavoidably revolting, at least it was allied ground; providing a more comforting rest as compared to the dangerous Pandora forest.
In the end, an astonishing sight of an expansive and bloodied battlefield greeted them when they returned.
Such a tremendous scale, was the largest carnage between the Blackthorn tribe and Mother Nature Eywa.
Mother Nature Eywa was utterly furious. Apart from a blended mix of legendary creatures within, Sheyan could even notice large amounts of na’vi integrated within the assaulting beast horde. Fortunately, none of the na’vi clans associated with the main movie lead, were present. The excellent archery of the na’vi had issued massive threats to the arachnid race. In time, little by little, the Blackthorn tribe was forced to retreat in defeat, losing 5-6 of its organ building structures.
Yet at this very moment, Defilers entered the fray. This was the first time the Blackthorn tribe was employing such a powerful unit, the Defiler. A Defiler possessed zero offensive capabilities, but its two unique abilities earned its accolade as the best arachnid support unit; being second to none.
They could produce large quantities of biochemical virus substance, substance that no powerful antidote whatsoever could resist. A Defiler could even consume other arachnids, and use their comrades as raw material for their toxins. They would normally be protected by flocks of zerglings. The Defiler’s cannibalistic methodology indeed embodied the sole pattern of arachnid behavior.
By employing only one ability, the Defiler was able to neutralize the incisive onslaught of the na’vi warriors!
They sprayed out large clouds of black matter, which floated roughly half a metre above ground; utterly obstructing the line of sight of those archers! This was the Defiler’s ability – ‘Dark Swarm’! An ability that completely negated all hostile long range attacks! Only by charging into the terrifying fog of darkness, could one continue merely engaging in close combat.
Moreover, the iron-trio composition of Lurkers, herculean Ultralisks, and multitudes of zerglings, had already proven its might throughout many battles. As it turns out, Mother Nature Eywa could only resort to a cruel war of attrition to counter them, a method she was most unwilling to do.
During the latter parts of the battle, the Defilers had managed to despicably spread out fogs of ‘Dark Swarm’ to all na’vi archer populated areas. Furthermore, the zerglings and ultralisks were brazenly stampeding forward, engaging in widespread slaughter!
Facing such an aspect, Eywa could only give up. She had no choice but to give up, as she summoned her tidal waves of beasts back in retreat. Instead, the Blackthorn tribe pursued them ravenously! Only after dealing massive devastation to their enemies, did they return.
Seizing this opportunity, Sheyan greeted the Blackthorn Overmind.
How many times have you fought after we left?
The Blackthorn Overmind straightforwardly answered.
《 Including this, 4 times. 》
Sheyan pondered a little before continuing.
I reckon Eywa would soon unleash her final assault. If you can endure that, then she would probably try to reach a compromise with you instead.
The Blackthorn Overmind replied.
《 I too, earnestly hope for peace. On such a fertile planet, my greatest wish is to continuously harvest the energies of pandora crystals without any disturbances, and finally upgrade my state and prowess. Although this will be an excruciatingly long process, but I firmly believe, there will surely be a day I surpass the Empress; and uprightly appear before her on equal footing 》
Sheyan chuckled and replied.
I earnestly yearn for your early success. Eywa’s war had already exhausted the lives of countless creatures. She wouldn’t persist such a war of attrition for too long.
Sheyan’s forecast did seem rather accurate. Yet after a short period, a shocking scenario took place. Even the sunlight in the skies had been overshadowed. Covering the skies and earth, were hordes of aerial creatures. Mother Nature Eywa had seemingly abandon all ground offenses, and opted for an out-and-out aerial war with the Blackthorn tribe!!
However, before the aerial battle even begun, a trivial incident of subordinate disharmony played out! A Defiler had abruptly borrowed out from underground to engage in a sneak attack! In a flash, the sky was seemingly dyed red from wild splashes blood! This was indeed the other terrifying ability of the Defiler – ‘Bloodied Clouds and Mist’ !
Chapter 433: The final campaign, the final collision!
After evolving, a Defiler could produce and spray out massive networks of corrosive blood spores, which could swiftly decay and extinguish all matter. Also known as ‘Blood Plague’, this ability was the same against any opponent; be it building structures or armies, it would equally deal hefty damages. No matter allied or foe, all will be affected.
Once the decaying process began, the plague would deliver damage over time to any affected unit; until it finishes!
Although that Defiler was instantly killed, amongst the densest congregated mass of aerial forces, many creatures had started flapping their wings frantically and releasing horrifying anguished wails. It was obvious, they had been contaminated by the plague of spores; the decaying seeping into their flesh and vitality.
Yet presently, the Blackthorn tribe had since expanded to a relatively large territory, and it was simply impossible for their entire base to be under the protection of the Defiler’s ‘Dark Swarm’ ability. Moreover, the physical aerial creatures of planet Pandora were extremely numerous, and the skies of the battlefield were starting to be filled with large battalions of aerial beasts. Not only were there Mountain Banshees, there were even several peculiar and unknown creatures; each incredibly menacing and deadly.
Against its rival’s offensive might, the Blackthorn Overmind hastily commanded his response.
《 Attack!! 》
《 They wish to compete in aerial dominance! 》
《 Then your area of expertise will be your downfall!! 》
Epic multitudes of Mutalisks and Scourges had been spawned out, as the Scourges demonstrated insanely frightening kamikaze area destruction! As for the Mutalisks, their intense shooting also dealt extremely compelling restraint onto the enemy’s concentrated formation. In addition to the Defiler’s ‘Blood Plague’ continually sapping away the opponent’s life force, the Queen-zerg’s enormous green web was also substantially lowering the flight velocity of her foes………allowing the Mutalisks and Scourges to unleash shockingly devastating results.
Massive corpses were now falling randomly from the skies, as their blood and flesh subsequently consumed by the ‘Creep’ carpet. Mournful shrieks pierced through the entire battlefield, seemingly causing the ears of the humans to split open! Gripping their hearts even more, the beast tide was about to occupy all round superiority; however, the Blackthorn tribe started delegating immense crowds of arachnid drones, as they proceeded to blatantly build thick crowds of Spore Colonies over the ‘Creep’ carpet!!
Even though incubating such powerful battle organs required a definite duration, and despite its relatively frail state while incubating, it was nonetheless, a cheap manufacturing expenditure (doesn’t require Vespene gas). This retaliation immediately plunged Eywa into a dilemma.
–Either continue routing the enemy’s aerial fleets with concentrated spurts of energy!
–Or segregate her troops to squash those currently incubating Spore Colonies!
The earlier option was a gamble. Gambling on the possibility of condemning her enemy’s aerial fleet to crumble entirely, before those Spore Colonies could finish incubating. The latter option was on the contrary, a dependable method. However, it would allow a breathing space for the arachnid aerial fleet, the fleet that was already approaching imminent crisis!
The defense line of the arachnids seem to depict an impression of collapsing at any second, but it just wouldn’t collapse! Their fortified tenacity could even caused one to vaguely sense a hidden card up its sleeves!
In the end, Mother Nature Eywa decided to seek stability, and spared none of the incubating Spore Colonies; attempting to completely abolish them. However, during this period, the arachnid’s mutalisks and scourges weren’t idling. They dished out exceptionally tremendous damages to the distracted beast horde, that were focusing on the Spore Colonies. Thus, both parties very unfortunately fell into a war of attrition once again.
In lieu of such a scenario, Mother Nature Eywa held no more reservations; immediately opting for reinforcements! Within the unprecedented intensity of massacre, from afar in the skies; an astronomical shadow interweaved with stunning yellow, red and black stripes appeared.
A wave of unparalleled power and oppression surged in!
It was as though the skies had lowered, bequeathing itself to cover all earth; causing all to feel great repression in their hearts!
The hegemony of Pandora had finally descended.
I’m afraid this will be the last battle.
Sheyan muttered.
After this round, if the Blackthorn tribe can stand firm, then Mother Nature Eywa would probably consider compromising. Besides, her instincts pertain to upholding the balance of nature, and not speed up its extinction.
Three monumental Great Leonopteryx displayed their tremendous wingspan, gliding in slowly from a distant place. Despite being about to launch a blood war, they didn’t discard their graceful and unhurried demeanor; resembling monarchs patrolling to uphold their own territories.
Though Sheyan and buddies had since witnessed personally its renowned true identity and even touched it in close proximity………yet, how could an air-dried, mummy skull even compare to the true body of an existing soul, an unrivalled tyrant?
After Mother Nature Eywa had mobilized her ultimate trump card, she further bestowed blessings without the least of stinginess! Primarily, their HP had estimatedly been enhanced by over a million, and secondly, they were completely immune to negative buffs!
The Defiler’s ‘Bloodied Clouds and Mist’ – ineffective!
The Queen-zerg’s green mucus web – Ineffective!
Lime colored spores catapulted from the Spore Colonies, criss-crossing as they struck against their bodies. Greenish fluids splashed in all directions, yet measly drawing a sliver of blood!
Regardless of all the arachnids present thus far, barring the ground-based Ultralisks, not a single could withstand against even one blow of the 3 Great Leonopteryx!!
Within a split second, the 3 Great Leonopteryx speared through the arachnid defense line like an arrowhead, wrecking as the lines crumbled down.
Massive loads of organ structures soon exploded into fountains of blood, covering the skies under the unceasing and relentless assaults. Mountain Banshees swooped down in berserk aggression under the leadership of their kings. Ever since this bitter war had been sparked till now, their rigor was suddenly boosted by 3 folds. The previous deadlocked state of the entire battlefield, had instantly tilted overwhelmingly towards one side. The beast horde was like flames being sprinkled by a ladle of oil, roaring sonorously as they arose fanatically! Seemingly ignited with a momentum of a prairie fire, they commence their counter-attack!
Instead, the arachnid race remained silent,
Silently perishing, silently retreating; like a machine, repetitively spawning out buildings and armed units. So much so that even mining drones resorted to harming themselves, defending the frontlines without hesitation. The beast tide rummaged in like a clamorous raging inferno, but the arachnid tide remained cold and detached; like a machine, silent and ruthless! Completely tossing aside all existence of emotions!
Sheyan had even observed the Blackthorn Overmind personally floating up into the air, using its own body frame to block several hostile assaults. Although it appeared that its fat frame could obviously take several beatings and not sacrifice its life, the current impasse had reached such a bad extent, the Overmind had to personally serve as shield! One could tell how deadly the present predicament was.
Mogensha’s breathing had presently turned gravely heavy, because he could fathom; that though the Blackthorn Overmind could endure several blows, before shrinking back into a safer region…….but in at most 30 seconds! The beast tide would be able to directly push in right ahead of the Mother Nest. Once the Mother Nest was demolished, the ‘twin cores’ supporting the entire Blackthorn Tribe would degrade to a ‘single core’! Following that would be a wholescale collapsation and withdrawal. Ultimately, if the Blackthorn tribe were to be eradicated from the planet, their Golden Side Mission……..would fizzle out in smokes!
Even Reef had his brows tightly knitted as he observed the situation. In such a battlefield, where individual might was stifled to its bare minimum, even if he voiced out to help, it would be simply empty words!
Amongst the trio, only Sheyan’s current expression maintained a convicted composure. Although his fists were tightly clenched with cold sweat dripping out from within, but…..his demeanor still exhibited a hope; as for his gaze, it was fixated onto the distant sky!
During earlier portions of the battle, the Blackthorn Overmind was still able to engage in unit to unit precise controlling manipulation. Hence, for certain fatally wounded Mutalisks, he could directly maneuver them towards any empty region without fighting going on. Relying on the arachnid’s formidable homeground battle advantage, those severely wounded Mutalisks could rapidly regenerate their health through the attention from overlords and the ‘Creep’ carpet.
Right now where Sheyan was fixated on, was indeed the empty casualty dumping region!
As the other two glanced towards where he was looking, they could distinctly see – that was a region originally filled with nearly 40 heavily wounded Mutalisks, that had been flapping their wings. Unbeknownst when did it happened, an unexpected cocoon had started weaving in mid air! Then, it spun into a gigantuous and thick ash grey crescent cocoon. Just like that, it peculiarly floated still in mid air. Moreover, on the periphery of that giga-cocoon, there were even silky white thread needles thrusting out in all directions.
Those Mutalisks there, were actually undertaking a second evolution! Moreover, upon observation, it should indeed be the killer move purposefully left behind by the Blackthorn tribe! One that was specially employed to deal with the wargods dispatched by Mother Nature Eywa – the Great Leonopteryx!
What could that thick cocoon possibly be breeding?
Still 20 seconds left.
Mogensha’s voice sounded as if he had squeezed it out between the cracks of his teeth.
The Mother Nest is about to be directly assaulted.
At the instant his voice faded, that distant ash-grey crescent giga-cocoon suddenly split and exploded, with chartreuse colored amniotic fluids spilling out like a biochemical rain! Within the next second, oddly insect screeches rung out incessantly into the battlefield. A whole new arachnid unit appeared in plain sight of everyone.
This was a creature whose size wasn’t one bit inferior to the Ultralisk. Two solid chitin carapace wings covered its back, a humongous belly and malevolent looking jaws. Finally, black fur coated its entire body surface! It appeared identical to an enormous beetle with a beer belly, while its body’s crust was of paramount sturdiness.
Yet contradicting its stupendously fleshy external, its movement speed was unbelievably swift. As though in the instance they had just spawned, they had directly soared towards the most critical of places in aid! Brazenly issuing out a challenge to all rival aerial forces!
The ultimate aerial unit of the arachnid race……..the Devourers, finally entered the scene!
Devourers were the most formidable aerial fleet offensive units of the arachnid race. In spite of their immense body frame, their movement speeds were meteorically fast! Their plump bellies could rapidly concoct out lethal toxin fluids, before fanatically shooting them out through their sinister jaws.
(TN: author should still be basing units on starcraft 1, so for those that play starcraft 2 or 3, you’ll probably know of stronger aerial units)
Chapter 434: Eywa appears
At the instant the Devourers entered the fray, the entire battlefield became seemingly enshrouded in violet dark clouds. Insanely murky toxic black-violet fluids voraciously jetted towards the enemies, appearing similar to large regiments of violet clouds. Frequently when a Mountain Banshee was struck, the toxic fluids would splash wildly. Not only would it contaminate the victim, it would transform into a large scale AOE assault, rippling to other creatures around.
Yet strangely, those toxic fluids seem to carry an indescribable viscosity; leaving an impression that if one got struck by it, the fluids would inevitably adhere tightly to one’s skin. Sheyan could even see dense cyan fumes emitting out of the body surfaces of those contaminated creatures! Obviously, their skin were currently being wildly corroded away.
The 3 tyrannical Great Leonopteryx were obstructed head-on by 21 massive dark-violet Devourers! In a flash, excessive loads of black-purple thick spittles struck against them. Finally, they echoed out unbearably agonizing shrieks, as they fluttered their wings and lunged towards their foes. However, one could vividly notice that even with the impressive defense of the 3 Great Leonopteryx, their skin were similarly corroded by the wicked venom. Frothed in pouring fluids, they appeared extremely miserable.
In terms of solo battle prowess, although the Devourers were not a Great Leonopteryx match, they were definitely not as frail as Mutalisks. Especially their fleshy abdomen which looked like an exceedingly obvious weak point. Yet in actual fact, 3 quarters of it was layered with a fortified chitin carapace and solid muscles.
For an entire abdomen the size of a room, its frail stomach actually occupied roughly only the size of a fridge! One could tell how impregnable it was! Hence, if foes were to ferociously attack their ‘weak point’, on the contrary, they would’ve fallen for the Devourer’s trick! If a Great Leonopteryx were to directly cleave the Devourer’s head or chest, it would merely require only 3 claws to fatally injure it. However, if the Great Leonopteryx were to primarily target its belly, then it would require 5 strikes to finally slay it!
Yet strangely, following the increasing toxic phlegm accumulating on these hegemony of Pandora, the Great Leonopteryx, Mother Nature Eywa’s blessing seem to have lost its effects. One could tell the skin of those 3 tyrannical Great Leonopteryx were starting to discharge ‘chii chi’ sizzles of fumes; allowing the fluids to diffuse through its skin.
No matter if it was flapping their wings of executing any actions, they now evidently exhausted more strength. Those thick fluids accumulating on their surface were like glue; constricting their mobility, covertly draining their physique!
Those Devourers are truly powerful!
Upon seeing this scene, Brother Black couldn’t help but exclaim with a stern expression.
Its sole attack already possess 3 different passive abilities! An AOE damage, persistently corroding enemy’s armour, persistently draining the enemy’s attack speed!
Sheyan observed for a moment before replying.
You should add in their high HP and rapid flight speed. However, their flaws are rather obvious too – probably being extremely weak to ground assaults. Speaking from the perspective of their physiology composition, they must be in close proximity of their enemy before being able to shoot out attacks. This will easily cause them to be clawed down by ground troops.
By this point, Reef finally exhaled a long, worried sigh.
Dang, so this Blackthorn Overmind had actually retained such an ace for this moment. In my view, being weak against ground assaults isn’t really that terrible. Fiends that wholly specializes in one aspect are the most terrifying!
Following the bitter warfare waged by the Devourers, the aerial situation had immediately shifted to a crisis averted. Though the onslaught of the enemy was half a step away from destroying the Mother Nest, so much so that they had slaughtered till a dozen metres from the Mother Nest, they were simply unable to invade even an inch further; like a spent arrow that couldn’t penetrate crude silk. The 3 Great Leonopteryx expanded their tremendous strength and finally annihilated the 20 plus Devourers blocking them. Instead, they immediately realized yet another dozen or so Devourers had surged towards them!!
By this point, their bodies were already soaked drenched by the black-purple saliva of the Devourers, that even flapping their wings now required the peak of energy. Furthermore, after the 3 tyrannical creatures had been entrapped in, the remaining aerial beast forces were seemingly on the verge of being massacred completed. The killer combination of weaker Devourers, Mutalisks and Scourges had completely overturned the tides of war; pouring it directly in the arachnid’s favour!
Another 10 minutes elapsed. The 3 Great Leonopteryx were outstandingly indomitable, consecutively cleaving and disposing of the dozen plus Devourers in their path. What caused them to despair further, was yet another 6 newly bred Devourers soared over. Right now, the 3 Great Leonopteryx were already riddled with cuts and bruises. Even solely dealing with merely 6 Devourers, could be described as arduously taxing. Even more depressing was the fact at least hundreds of Mutalisks and 2-3 hundreds of Scourges had encompassed around them; sealing them so tightly, that not even water could pass through!
The rest of the aerial beast horde, had actually been utterly exterminated!!!!
The arachnid race had to pay an exorbitant cost for this battle, but once again managed to safeguard their own ‘Hometree’. Total extermination of their rivals, such terrifying tenacity and toughness. As Sheyan and buddies spectated by the side, their hearts involuntarily welled up with an unexplainable reverence. The Blackthorn Overmind’s fearsome battle assessment abilities, could indeed only be described as a grand master type level.
Facing such a scenario, the chances of survival for the 3 Great Leonopteryx was as good as zero……..still, a king’s haughtiness was sufficient for it to remain unyielding, absolutely fearless as their eyes emanated a glow of unmatched ferocity. In unison, they fluttered their wings and howled ludicrously to the heavens, determined to dye their opponent’s bodies with the last drip of blood!
At this moment, Sheyan’s emotions stirred, and instead communicated mentally.
Blackthorn Overmind! Release them!
The Blackthorn Overmind hesitated briefly before replying.
《 My friend. Those three are exceptionally dreadful and invincible beasts. The reserves of pandora crystals I’ve amassed isn’t left with much. If I release them, then once they mobilize against us again, my losses would be tremendous. The chances of resisting the next wave will only be 43.71%! 》
Sheyan earnestly urged.
This is a golden opportunity for you to demonstrate your sincerity, and obtain rights to a negotiation! You’ve already fully revealed your individual prowess to Mother Nature Eywa! It is now time for you to express your goodwill, and announce to her you aren’t her enemy!
These 3 Great Leonopteryx are already riddled with scars, and 2 of them have sustained leg injuries that are hard to recover. The worst possibility is – if you release them and negotiations fall through, after they regroup and return, they will maximally be able to demonstrate only a sixth of their prowess displayed today. Moreover, your gains you can obtain from releasing them are much more! Trust me! You simply cannot continue to defy a will that can manipulate the creatures of this entire planet. At least right now, that is impossible!
The Blackthorn Overmind deliberated for a while, naturally discussing with the Mother of the Blackthorn, Shengong. Then, he proceeded to control this arachnid creatures to open up a gigantic divide, allowing the 3 Great Leonopteryx a way out to life. Though the 3 arrogant tyrants would rather die than submit, when facing such perilous straits, seeing their enemies opening a way out was naturally what they were seeking for; they instantly fluttered their bruised and toxic saliva filled wings to escape.
Nevertheless, the Blackthorn Overmind tightly seized this period to repeatedly repair and construct organ buildings, replenishing drones to engage in ore mining. If there was indeed a next wave, then it was necessary to prepare these things. Besides, the reserves of crystals and vespene gas it plundered from the previous planet was nearly depleted.
After roughly 10 minutes since those Great Leonopteryx had flew off, Sheyan suddenly felt a peculiar sensation. Though there was an absence of wind in the surroundings, the leaves of the nearby forest were unceasingly gently swaying; releasing rustling sounds. Closely following, light drizzles started petering from the skies. Unbeknownst when, the clouds in the sky had congregated like a vortex, as the drizzle against their skin felt incredibly refreshing. Moreover, the current atmosphere lingered with a mystical aroma.
Such an aroma was something Sheyan and never whiffed before in the present world. Only not too long ago; this aroma was analogous to the smell of the grassfield in front of the valkyrie shuttle. That same smell released by the evaporating mystical ‘root’ object, the item the beast horde had campaigned against the valkyrie for.
At this moment, Sheyan’s heart was finally throbbing and thumping; because he knew, he was about to meet the divinity of the na’vi race. The true ruler of this planet, Mother Nature Eywa!
All of a sudden, a hundred metres away from the arachnid base; various grass shoots, tree splinters, soil, and shrubs congealed together as though possessing spiritual energy, metamorphosing into a statue of a female na’vi as tall as 5 metres. Sheyan could notice a plethora of white fine threads blending from the soil into the substances of the statue.
The statue actually possessed its own vitality, raising her steps as she advanced several steps forward; as though she was adapting to her new body. Then, she finally glared towards here. Concurrently, in this instant, not a single movement was made. Then, towards every single life form on this side; be it Sheyan, the trio or the entire Blackthorn tribe, their minds simultaneously resounded with a gentle yet indignant voice. The voice ushered a sensation that every cell in their body was resonating!
《 Outsider! Leave this place. You have already threatened the ecological balance of this planet. Refrain from such meaningless slaughter! 》
The Blackthorn Overmind’s answer was extremely forthright and blunt.
《 I cannot leave. If I do, I will either perish within the currents of space, or die under the cruel regime of the Empress. Ah, Spirit Nature of this planet, you cannot deprive my rights to live just because of some presence of threat! If not, I would rather fight to the death with you, till the very last drop of my blood! 》
Eywa lifted her hand; pointing to the arachnid’s base, she rebuked.
《 You are too dangerous. If you continue expanding in strength, I will soon be incapable of stopping you! 》
Chapter 435: Silver title: One hand to cover heaven!!!
After Sheyan became mindful of a certain underlying message beneath Eywa’s words, he deeply bowed by the side and spoke.
Venerable Goddess, please forgive my audacity……since you both desire for peace, why not settle for a negotiation? My friend here doesn’t rely on plunder and wanton devouring of the carcasses of creatures to sustain his life. His survivability and growth is entirely based on something else! He is like a Hometree, and only requires energies from crystals to preserve his existence for a very very long time.
If you feel his tribal force is growing too extravagant, then it doesn’t matter, for he is able to shrink his base to a smaller scale. He can proactively terminate his own soldiers and lower his personal battle prowess. Please believe me, his only necessity here are those pandora ores. If you are able to show benevolence and allocate a tiny living space for him, then peace will once again descend over planet Pandora.
Evidently, Sheyan’s final words had deeply moved Eywa. It appeared that she wasn’t someone who loved war and fighting. Eywa doubtfully questioned.
《 What you are saying, is it true? 》
Sheyan smiled faintly and replied.
This is something you can personally ask them to verify.
The Blackthorn Overmind then clumsily floated out, facing the Goddess Eywa from a distant location.
《 Respected Spirit Nature, his words are completely genuine. If you are willing to bequeath to me existential rights and a place to reside in, then I can cut down my forces and shrink the size of my ground territory. Before this, I had been coerced to offer an immense portion of energy units to my Empress. Now that I’ve freed myself from her evil clutches, just merely this current patch of ore veins is adequate for me to grow and survive for a good amount of years 》
Goddess Eywa appeared as if she was indeed unwilling to instigate another war. Besides, this wasn’t her sphere of expertise to begin with, and after a series of discussions with the Blackthorn tribe, she issued her personal bottom-lines.
《 First – The current territorial size of the Blackthorn tribe is the maximum limit, you are absolutely not allowed to continue expanding. 》
《 Second – The Blackthorn tribe forces cannot exceed a thousand headcount. 》
《 Third – The Blackthorn tribe can possess its own forces for self-defense. However, it cannot produce other common battle arachnids apart from zerglings and hydralisks. Of course, rare elite creatures such as ‘Jenny’ is an exception, but such rare elite arachnids cannot exceed over 50 headcounts. 》
Only by satisfying these 3 factors, would Goddess Eywa benevolently permit the Blackthorn tribe to hold residence here, and even bestowed the same existential rights as all wildlife.
In Goddess Eywa’s perspective, she too could notice this eccentric race undoubtedly required that layer of mucus (Creep) to construct their organ buildings. Hence, her first criteria was to control their scope of expansion. Her second criteria acted as complementary for the loopholes in her first condition.
Her ideology was that a thousand strong tribe was already considered a large scale clan, and even the na’vi clans of such scale weren’t rare. Counting on the multitude packs of viperwolves and slingers, they would easily exceed such a quantity. One must know, the military forces mobilized by the Blackthorn tribe in the previous war had numbered from 5 thousand to even ten thousand! In lieu of this current terms, it would substantially plunge the threat of the Blackthorn tribe to other races!
The third criteria was to limit the occurrence of creatures possessing frighteningly immense individual combat prowess, to prevent the Blackthorn tribe from traversing the path of specialized elite squads. To Goddess Eywa, this concept indicated that she still hadn’t realized the vast disparity in terms of warfare commanding tactics between her and the Blackthorn tribe. She was merely taking the personal strength of her enemy to determine the threat level. For example within her mind, she pondered over how 3 zerglings were needed to fight 1 viperwolf, and how 2 hydralisk were required against 1 slinger. Hence, she simply reckoned such regulations could confine the Blackthorn tribe to the bare minimum.
Hearing the 3 generous conditions, Sheyan was truly bursting with joy. Moreover, the Blackthorn Overmind too felt it was within an acceptable zone. Even if Eywa harboured any errant intentions, just based on its formidable surveillance capabilities (since the arachnid overlords didn’t possess battle capabilities, it wasn’t counted in the headcount. Moreover, it could fly around at rapid speed, and was free to roam about), along with a thousand zerglings and hydralisks, it would suffice to hold on till advanced units could be breeded out.
However, after Sheyan pondered briefly, he suggested an additional criteria.
Fourth – if anyone initiates hostility against the Blackthorn tribe, and endangers the existence of the Blackthorn tribe’s properties, then these restrictions can be temporarily lifted. However, once the battling concludes, the 3 restrictions must be reinstated within an hour.
The fourth condition was a scope of authority that Sheyan helped to bargain for, in place of the Blackthorn tribe. Mother Eywa ultimately believed she could anytime suppress the Blackthorn tribe, and after hesitating slightly, she acceded to that condition. Besides, the Blackthorn Overmind had drew blood on his first prick with his first point – if Mother Nature Eywa was to renegade on her words and campaigned epic multitudes of troops against it, then what could it do? This was despite Mother Nature turning wrathful due to that hypothesis, considering this presumption as an insult to her dignity.
Thus, peace was very abruptly achieved. With a strong start but weak finish, the collision between the beast tide and arachnid sea finally concluded. However, to the present Sheyan whose lips had curled into a snicker, this was instead just a new beggining to his Golden Side Mission!
At the instant both parties reached an agreement, Sheyan suddenly received notification from the nightmare imprint:
[ The strength of the Blackthorn tribe has substantially increased. ]
[ The Blackthorn tribe has officially abscised from the Blade Empress’s sequence, and has become an independant race of Planet Pandora. ]
[ Your current relationship with the Blackthorn Tribe leader, Blackthorn Overmind, is ‘Worshipped’. ]
[ Title conferred by the realm to the Blackthorn Tribe: ‘Second to none’ ! ]
[ From henceforth, any parallel universe containing the Blackthorn tribe will be irreversibly destroyed within an hour. Apart from this universe, other parallel universe will no longer host the appearance of a Blackthorn tribe. ]
(TN: This should be referring to movie worlds, possibly for other contestants.)
[ Note: You currently possess a ‘Worshipped’ relationship with a powerful storyline character accoladed with the ‘Second to None’ title. ]
[ Note: Silver class milestone: ‘One hand to cover heaven’ initiated. ]
[ Milestone completion requirement: Possess a ‘Worshipped’ relationship with two powerful storyline characters accoladed with the ‘Second to None’ title. ]
[ Milestone completion rate: 1 / 2. ]
[ Mission completion reward title: ‘One hand to cover heaven’. ]
Sheyan glanced towards Mogensha and Reef, observing that same amazed expression on their faces. Immediately, he knew they had unanimously received the same notification. Instantly, he inquired the nightmare imprint through his scope of authority:
Please introduce the properties of the title ‘One hand to cover heaven’.
[ Inquiring: With your current military rank, inquiring a detailed report on this title would require a fee of 10,000 utility points. However, it isn’t guaranteed you can obtain the full report. Do you wish to pay this fee of utility points and proceed? ]
Observing this notification, Sheyan wasn’t appalled but instead delighted as he immediately chose ‘yes’.
[ Silver class title: One hand to cover heaven. ]
[ After equipping, legend level +1. ]
[ Additional property: ‘Cornerstone’ – this additional attribute holds maximum usefulness during title synthesization. Your current scope of authority is insufficient, you are unable to view the next step of details. ]
Though Sheyan was exceedingly composed, he instantly huffed in a chilling air and immediately shared the information he had obtained. Consecutively, Mogensha and Reef’s gasped could be heard, as the benefits of legend level was excruciatingly clear to them! Eyeing such an opportunity, they would definitely not let it slip by.
After calming his aroused spirits, Reef had already submerged into deep thought. After a pause, he finally spoke.
Ah, it seems like the crux of the matter is to propel a storyline character to acquire the title of ‘Second to None’. Guys, just think about the entire interaction process we had with the Blackthorn tribe so far, its entire sequence of maturity leading till here. Notice what deeds were required for the realm to confer such a title.
After a series of intense discussions, Sheyan and them summarized with 3 points:
First – that storyline character must be sufficiently weak like soy sauce. To detail it with one phrase, it must be fking weak. Basically the kind that would absolutely not have a single intersection with the main storyline.
Secondly – The growth potential of that storyline character must be adequately strong. As the chief, the Blackthorn Overmind’s battle capabilities was reflected through his commandery. Yet putting it in context of other races, the Overmind would at least be considered a tier-7, no, very possibly displaying the impact of a tier-8 and above legendary creature magnitude!
Third – It must be very plausible for this storyline character, to be willing to separate from his/her currently living world…….
Of course, it was possible for various other accomplishment conditions, but at least those 3 points was a sure fundamental. Hence, after their discussion concluded, Mogensha and Reef simultaneously fixated a meaningful gaze at Sheyan…….unanimously, a name leapt out of their mouths.
Little sister Melody!!!! Boss!!!!!
Even though a peace agreement had been attained, Mother Nature Eywa wasn’t very straightforward and refreshed in her departure. She stood silently by a side and examined the Blackthorn tribe. Only after confirming they were truthfully consistently harvesting ores as life force, did she swiftly dissolve back into the ground. At this moment, Sheyan then instigated to the Blackthorn Overmind.
Brother, it is time to inaugurate a subsidiary base.
Its innate arachnid tendency immediately swelled and gripped it. The Blackthorn Overmind instantly exclaimed excitedly.
《 Are you for real? You’re aware of mineral resources in another region? 》
Sheyan chuckled lightly in response.
That’s correct. However, though the quantities of ore there is breathtakingly stunning, its ore purity is extremely low. I reckon extracting and refining the crystals would be a terribly troublesome matter. According to my knowledge, the humans of this world had forsaken that prospect due to the exorbitant overhead costs. I just wonder, will you be able to extract them?
Author notes:
Can anyone guess, how can the Blackthorn Overmind wretchedly inaugurate a subsidiary base without violating the regulations?
Chapter 436: Bloodied grazing
Towards Sheyan’s doubtful inquiry, the Blackthorn Overmind’s greatest advantage was – possessing a company of workers that could work for 24 hours straight, without overtime pay, without social insurance, and without supervision. Hence, he snorted disdainfully and proclaimed.
《 Even if a single unobtanium fragment is lodged within a mountain, the assiduous rascals of the Blackthorn tribe will without a doubt, dig it out! Besides, do our magnificent arachnids require harvesting costs?! However…… 》
The Blackthorn Overmind continued with a vexed tone
《 We just achieved an agreement with Mother Nature Eywa. Surely she wouldn’t tolerate such a conduct right? 》
Sheyan chuckled humbly.
Isn’t your agreement – The current territorial size of the Blackthorn tribe is the maximum limit, you are absolutely not allowed to continue expanding? From what I can observe, your current base occupies approximately ten square-kilometres. If you contract this base to 5 square-kilometres, then doesn’t this signify you can establish another subsidiary base of 5 square-kilometres?
Anyway, according to your agreement, you cannot presently spawn out any advance arachnids. Therefore, why not temporarily allow those obsolete organ structures to wither directly. Similarly, you can forsake several of the larva breeding lairs. In this way, such an easy matter of decreasing half the area of your base, do you need me to elaborate further?
It was as if the murky darkness had opened, and the Blackthorn Overmind instantly saw the light. If they acted in accordance to Sheyan’s suggestion, then it was utterly not in violation of both party’s agreement! Mother Nature Eywa wouldn’t be able to find fault in this at all. Moreover, an additional base meant an additional contingency route!
Going a thousand steps back, Mother Nature Eywa wouldn’t possess straight up offensive capabilities were she to revolt, and could only employ her beast tides to raid. Yet to amass her beast tide, she undoubtedly required sufficient time. The Blackthorn tribe could just utilize their multitudes of overlords for reconnaissance, allowing at least an hour of buffer time! Thus, there would still be adequate time for last minute emergency constructions!
Broad expansions were an arachnid’s innate tendency and instincts. Since that was the case, the Blackthorn Overmind hastily inquired.
《 Where is that place you are referring to? 》
Sheyan replied.
There is, quite a distance from here, a place known as Triangle Shoals……even though an overlord can directly engage in flight transport, I still recommend that you dispatch a fleet to escort the drones over. This is to avoid any mishaps from happening. Besides, the wild beasts of this world are rather savage.
(TN: Sheyan learned of this information through the diary he had acquired back in ch 23 of this volume)
The Blackthorn Overmind listened as he became deeply convinced. Yet what he wasn’t aware, was that Sheyan had left out an additional sentence.
15 kilometres straight west of the Triangle Shoals, is where the Mosake Clan resides; the Windstone Highland! If the zerglings were to break into an all-out sprint there, only 10 minutes are required to reach their destination! If overlords were to get involved, then that duration would be shorten by one fold!
However, based on Sheyan and the Blackthorn tribe’s current relationship, even if he was explicitly using them, they wouldn’t have any qualms or objection.
Dust clouds rolled in a distant place, as galloping hooves resounded like thunder from afar. From all corners of the forest, startled birds soared around in panic. A large horde of wild beasts were charging in from the horizon like a crushing roller! Having been roasted by the sun for an entire day, the flatlands now billowed with puffs of dust clouds! Spiralling and pervading into the air, like an ash dragon that wouldn’t disperse for a long time.
The sunset dragged the shadows of these haughty beast far and wide. If one was familiar with the creatures of Pandora, one would easily recognize. Those were the most common 6-legged creatures of this planet, known as a Direhorse.
Normally, Direhorse herds would travel in 50 or so. Yet appearing right now in this herd, were at least 3-4 hundred direhorses. Moreover, scattered sporadically within the herd, were 7-8 blue skinned, na’vi cavalry with bows slung across their backs. The only differing point from other na’vi folks, was a maroon cloth fastened along their necks. This indicated that these na’vi belonged to the side of the ‘Corrupted’ clans. It appears that this Direhorse herd was artificially bred, completely analogous to herdsmen allowing their horses to graze on the grasslands. This was also a main reason they had expanded to such tremendous scope.
Thump! Thump! Thump! Amidst the Direhorse herd, 2 enormous wild beast composedly trudged through, as they swayed with each step. One of the wild beast was a Sturmbeest, and was carrying a 2 metre long cage on its back. The other wild beast had dazzling flickering eyes, concealing its brutal mood; like black clouds pregnant with lightning. The indentated horns on its head displayed an exceptionally menacing presence, but it had a na’vi, whose muscles were bulging distinctly, mounted on its back; lazily leaning against its massive horns and resting.
The muscles covering the na’vi body’s were crispy clear, releasing an impression of total agility and strength; that of a leopard. There wasn’t a bow slung behind the na’vi’s back, but instead wore two impressively large bone boomerangs on his waist; decorated with drooping ornaments of interwoven mane and hair of its previous preys. This Mosake clan na’vi warrior spoke bluntly without raising his eyelid.
Outsider, I’ve already fulfilled your desire. I respect your formidable killing might, however, I despise your fighting method of shooting while hidden far away! This is my very last chance for you. If you are willing to face me upfront in a duel, then I will consider burying you within the belly of my friend; and allow your soul to exist alongside their powerful might.
The na’vi speaking was indeed that fearsome Hammerhead-Titanothere rider – Authe. He was also one of the few legendary creature riders of the Mosake Clan. Nevertheless, his latest words were not aimed at ridicule, but carried a sincere and serious tone. Just like in China wuxia novels, like heroes duelling heroes to appreciate each other’s talents. What he meant was – letting you die in my hands, is a solace.
However, allowing one’s own mount to devour the corpse of one’s enemy sounded like an extremely cruel affair. Yet in actual fact, it could resemble certain social customs of the present world. For example, a Sky burial (Tibetan funeral practice) sounds incomparably sacred, but in actual fact, it could be seen as some by just chopping corpses to feed birds…….furthermore, if one wasn’t a major character, then one would absolutely not receive such indulgent treatment. Instead, this outsider obviously possessed his own plans, and issued a hoarse voice after pondering for a while.
If you’re regretting about acceding to me previously, then you can simply kill me right now. I would definitely not retaliate.
Authe snorted fumingly; possibly feeling like his own heated face was pasted against cold buttocks. He didn’t turn to answer, but on the contrary, turn to the other Mosake Clan na’vi clansmen and shouted several raging bellows. Those few na’vi clansmen immediately seethed with fright, as they obediently urged their horses to accelerate forward.
They sky was devoid of clouds, remnants of the sun like blood. There was still a long stretch of distance towards the horizon, as high temperature governed the lands. The scorching climate offered no trace of winds. Following the Direhorses’ speedy galloping, the distant pasture of crane flowers were now in sight; issuing the impression of tranquility, a deathly stillness of a tomb, and an intense repression of emotions.
What this herd of Direhorses were beholding, wasn’t the refreshing nectar; but after an expedition of speed galloping, they were all itching to immediately leapt into the limpid river water, drinking and romping to their hearts’ content. Upon entering the pasture, the organized formation of the herd was thrown into disarray. Several naturally irritable direhorses had started impinging on its comrades, attempting to take first drink of the water! At this moment, that human that was imprisoned inside the wooden cage suddenly raised his brows, becoming indescribably amazed as he issued a ‘eiyy’?! He was simply speechless!
Obviously, those na’vi clansmen would naturally not notice his weird expression, because this outsider in their eyes, was already degraded to the ranks of someone on a death row. When the direhorse herd had halted and begun bathing inside the river, while playing inside the water, the atmosphere suddenly echoed with rumbling fragments of ‘thump thump thump thump thump’!
The echoes were originally exceedingly light, yet when thousands of such echoes converged together! It instantly transformed into a pressurizing and terrifying shudder, stunning the hearts of all!
From both sides of the forest leading to the pastures, shockingly in this instant, at least 800 peerlessly vicious zerglings suddenly came flooding in. They streamed into a perfect encirclement of devastation, as they berserkly pounced towards the herd of direhorses that had just eased themselves! Baring sharp claws and incisive fangs, they enjoyed the zealotry and ecstasy of hunting! Though every Direhorse was several times larger than a zerging, these herbivores in the face of such terrifying savage creatures, could only reveal their frightened clumsiness!
(Author’s note: 2 zerglings = 1 headcount. Like how 1 egg spawns out 2 zerglings)
Abruptly thrown into such an aspect, Authe didn’t rage out but instead surged with delight.
HAHAHAHA!
He laughed like a maniac to the skies.
Hu-rong Hu-rong!
Moreover, from within the nostrils of that Hammerhead-Titanothere beneath his waist, puffed out excited white fog!
Just when Authe was about to raise and hurl out his bone boomerang, a tall and sturdy figure ploughed through the ground and soared in; sand and stones scattering behind him. Raising a black lightsaber, he ferociously stabbed into butt of the Hammerhead-Titanothere! That gigantic legendary creature instantly unleashed a raging roar of anguish. The electricity curling up within the indentation of its horn dissipated in an instance, as it abruptly swung round and snarled.
Although it was the Hammerhead-Titanothere that got struck, strangely, Authe similarly frowned and immediately turned around; as though whatever encountered by his mount seemingly affected him as well. Bellowing indignantly, he aimed his bone boomerang and hurled it towards that individual who had emerged from behind!
Naturally, it was Reef who was the culprit behind. The trio’s painstaking arrangement had resulted in not a single reaping, thus they were obviously dissatisfied (if the assaults of the Blackthorn tribe’s arachnids covered everywhere, then battle spoils would shrink and even result in nothing). Hence, as long as they followed their earlier formulated plan, if Reef could hold on; just simply holding on, there would definitely be a possibility of wasting away and eventually slaying this legendary na’vi mount!
Chapter 437: 1 v 4 blood battle
Although Reef was brimming with confidence before initiating battle, but sometimes, the truth could only be clarified after personally experiencing it.
At the instant the boomerang came swivelling in, Reef had already raised his shield in defence but instead, his vision shockingly darkened as loads of stars hovered before his eyes. Closely following, it was like a layer of transparent film had strapped onto his face, completely strifling his breathing. Repeated collisions and snapping of branches resounded from his back, indicating that his current flying speed had reached the utmost maximum. With his tumbling body, he was utterly incapable of maintaining breathing!
When Reef finally crashed to a stop on the ground, he felt like he had just fell from a plane, but forgetting his parachute and free falling down for 7-8 kilometres; what more, he landed on his face. Struggling to climb back up, his legs turned jelly as he sat onto the ground like an intoxicated man. After panting for several seconds, he finally forced himself back up, as he glanced around with blurry vision!!
Reef then lifted his hand, and immediately discovered blood pouring out from his nasal cavity. The amount of blood flow could mirror the splashing puddle of a large truck speeding by past the road drain. One could tell how imposingly brutal that boomerang was. Yet the more alarming horror that nearly 80 percent of his HP had been wholly shaved off! Nearly a sliver away from near death state!!!
Such tremendous might!!!
The trio simultaneously took in a deep breath as they shook their heads and smiled bleakly; this Golden Side Mission, is indeed a well-deserved reputation…….it appears that before officially breaking through the boundary, one shouldn’t ever think about trying to reap any cheap benefits. The power disparity was truly too overboard, and any devising would simply be futile. Thus, it seemed like it was time to abandon their prior schemes.
As for that boomerang hurled out by that beast-rider, after sending Reef flying, its momentum actually remained unstoppable, and continued spinning as it carved out an exquisite arc through the air; seizing the chance to smash against two zerglings that were chomping down tightly onto a Direhorse, as two spurts of filthy black blood ejaculated into the air.
The boomerang’s edge wasn’t sharp, it was purely that the strength it carried was too monstrous; easily dissecting the heads of two tiny zerglings from their bodies without a single sound or reaction. Within the lacuna of the headless carcasses, both blood and clumps of crimson innards were spewing out.
The headless carcasses then knocked against a nearby tree, causing the three to sway from the collision as leaves came pelting down. Such was the tremendous extent of its strength!
Yet even after suffering such beheaded misfortune, the two zergling heads continued biting unyieldingly onto the flesh of the Direhorse. Their vicious conduct was truly unimaginable to humans, so much so that the zergling heads were still fiercely locked in its swallowing mechanics. Yet because their heads had been severed while they remained reflexively chewing, one could clearly see large chunks of flesh being squeezed out from their throats, and finally lumping to the ground!
The abrupt raiding of hundreds of zerglings, had truly struck every na’vi and their Direhorses into full blown panic. This wasn’t merely due to the abruptness of their assault, but also because the zerglings were creatures that they hadn’t seen before in their entire lives. No matter if it was their offensive savagery, their emitted odour or characteristics, everything was utterly foreign to them. With these various elements combining, it ushered in the scenario of an entire side immediately collapsing when the battle had just commenced!
After 10 seconds had elapsed since the sudden raid, at least 50 Direhorses and nearly half of the na’vis had became casualties. As primary fighting creatures that were meticulously created, along with the upgrade of the Blackthorn tribe to a class ‘III’ base, the zerglings’ offense, defence and HP had all been thoroughly enhanced. It was presumably no longer in the same breath as the ones back in the Starship Trooper world. Of course, such a terrifyingly murderous performance was to be expected.
However, how could Authe, a legendary creature rider, allow such madness from his foes? His legs suddenly squeezed against his mount; instantaneously, the enormous Hammerhead-Titanothere immediately stomped its front hooves into the ground, before straightening itself!
One could clearly sense the air around this gigantic beast rapidly compressing, before it suddenly unleashed an incomparably terrifying roar. Like an autumn gale sweeping away fallen leaves, every zergling within a 30 metres proximity as utterly swept clean!! They were essentially like feathers being blown away!
Immediately after, Authe bellowed loudly as he raised his hand to retrieve the returning bone boomerang. Within the next second, his hands were pressed against his waist, before once again flicking the two bone boomerangs out with extreme ease. Two boomerangs swivelled out with astonishing pace, carving out two streaks of matchless elegance in the air. Revolving at breakneck speed, it chopped open two paths of blood; like a carnage slicing through the atmosphere that wouldn’t dissipated even after a long time!
Authe’s combat prowess was truly too formidable. With barely one roar and toss, he at least slew close to 50 zerglings in the process. One could fathom, as long as entered a rampaging homicide, several minutes was all it required for him to utterly annihilate the entire zergling fleet.
Only, since Sheyan was present, he was naturally sufficiently prepared for such a scenario. Not even 10 seconds later, violent tremors started rumbling the ground. A certain impetus was currently tearing through the jungle from afar, resembling 4 bulldozers that were rummaging in at astounding speeds!
In a flash, 4 gigantic beasts could be seen charging in, with bodies not one bit inferior to a Hammerhead-Titanothere. Their tiny crab like eyes locked onto the situation here, before shrinking back into their impregnable carapaces. Locking onto Authe and his mounted Hammerhead-Titanothere, they buried their heads and blatantly charged in.
Needless to say, just by observing those incisive crescent bone-scythes of the Ultralisks, one could sense the terror and deadliness imbued within their brutal instincts! Previously when the Blackthorn tribe were warring against Mother Nature Eywa, the intense fighting and ruthless elimination had tempered and birthed out a relatively good amount of elite legendary creatures! The Blackthorn tribe was indeed generous. After listening to Sheyan’s request, he forthrightly dispatched out all his elite creatures and forces for his choosing.
This time, Sheyan didn’t bother about courtesy. As the massive frame of an Ultralisk could not be masqueraded within the crowds of zerglings, to prevent them from being discovered beforehand, they could only be hidden within a remote distance of the forest. Thus, they were several seconds later than the zerglings into the foray.
At the call to revolt, the 4 elite mammoths encircled the Hammerhead-Titanothere Rider Authe from all 4 directions; front, back, left and right. Their sinister scythes clawed against the ground alongside their hooves, as puffs of white fog repeatedly huffed out from its nostrils beneath the thick layer of carapace armour. Nevertheless, their stationary form was like pulling a bow but without firing, simply awaiting for their opponent to reveal an opening.
Upon observing such a state, an unexpected ominous premonition overcame Hammerhead-Titanothere Rider Authe’s heart. He was, after all, one of the most outstanding hunters of the entire Mosake clan. The wild beasts he had hunted and kill numbered to infinity, and even such a boss creature like the Hammerhead-Titanothere was personally tamed by him. Hence, whenever he faced epic multitudes of wild beasts, he would roar fanatically and charge forth into the insane battling.
When encountering such foes, Authe wasn’t afraid. On the contrary, his most restraining fear lies in those wild beasts that would silently pause to survey him! These wild beasts were frequently ones that retained a high level of intellect. The Thanator was one such outstanding creature who possessed formidable intellect.
Yet right at this moment, Authe had actually encountered such powerful intellectual creatures! Moreover, he himself was totally unfamiliar with such creatures, and had no form of explanation for them.
Facing these massive beasts that could retain composure amidst the chaos, rationality amidst the zealotry, a feeling of maximum crisis immediately welled up in Authe’s heart. What more, he was currently standing against 4 of such eccentric yet monstrous creatures! If he had the choice, he would definitely flee immediately. However, this herd of Direhorses was meant to shoulder at least a third of his clan’s food supplies. This mission, once he forsook it, how would his clansmen view him? What would Cherokee think of him? How would the relatives of those clansmen he abandoned view him?
Anguished neighing and melancholic wails of the direhorses, coupled with blood-curdling screams resounded continuously. With the strongest powerhouse Authe being tied down, it was akin to the battle prowess of this shepherding Mosake squad being utterly slashed by 90 percent!
In this instant, Auther affirmed his decision. With a wild cry, he hurled his bone boomerang towards his ferociously evil rivals on his left and right. Simultaneously, his Hammerhead-Titanothere grunted gloomily through its thoracic cavity, and buried its hammer shaped horn towards the massive beast right ahead, as it accelerated forward. Despite both beasts having an identical physique, it was obvious the Hammerhead-Titanothere was a level higher in terms of brute force. Boom! Heads collided and recoiled upwards, as the Ultralisk was struck flying.
Concurrently, the bone boomerangs Auther had hurled out contained exceedingly appaling destructive might. Crraak! They slammed deep into the heads of the two elite Ultralisks, causing those half-meter thick chitin carapace to appear as brittle as eggshell. Furthermore, at the area his boomerang had embedded into, it frothed with white jelly substance; as though their brain sap had been forcibly extracted out! Even the two bulldozer like Ultralisks were repelled by 5-6 steps from the blow!
Witnessing such a scene, Authe’s heart instantly slackened. Speaking from his hunting experience, once the head of any wild beast received such devastating blow, then death would inevitably be its only judgement!
Except at this moment, he could suddenly sense crisis blowing in from his back. The elite Ultralisk behind him had already lunged towards him with frightening brutality, as its crescent bone-scythes cleaved in with an outburst of frenzy! Mercilessly stabbing into the buttocks of the Hammerhead-Titanothere. The solid and tenacious leather of the Hammerhead-Titanothere, was practically ripped apart like a heated knife slicing through butter!
Chapter 438: Blank
The razor-sharp bone scythes of the Ultralisk easily pierced through the weak leather, cutting deep into the flesh of its foe! Specially designed for war, the crescent bone-scythes easily ripped flesh and nerve fibres asunder, gruesomely rupturing blood vessels and nerves as it scraped against them. Blood instantly splashed out in all directions like a fountain!
A long and huge chunk of red flesh had been carved out!
Sheyan was spectating from afar; observing that when the Ultralisk had drilled in, it first utilized its bone scythes to grind and scrape in slightly, before jerking its head outwards. Such execution was essential modelled after a construction worker, skillfully stabbing his shovel into the soil before stamping down the rear of the shovel blade; thereby drawing a full shovel of soil to toss into the roller! The only difference was that a construction worker tossed out soil, while an Ultralisk tossed out massive chunks of flesh!
The Hammerhead-Titanothere boomed with a sorrowful snarl. In spite of its owner’s control, it hoisted itself vertically up as it swung a 180 degrees backwards, recklessly slamming its gigantic horn against the sneaky aggressor. Yet another metre long wound split opened from the surface of its buttocks split due to aggravation, utterly shaping up into a distinctly clear flesh cavity! The uncloggable flow of blood was now spilling out crazily.
Presently, Authe’s pupils had shrunk even further. That was because the two gigantic beasts that were struck by his bone boomerang on their heads, had surprisingly shrugged their heads at this moment. Then, they once again jolted forward with frantic trampling! Authe wasn’t aware, but such a beast that specialized in storming the frontlines while tanking enemy firepower, normally possessed 4 hearts and 3 brains! No matter how mighty a flying hatchet could be, how could an Ultralisk be so easily defeated?
The sorrowful bellows of the Hammerhead-Titanothere reverberated out once again. Its twin hooves stomped against the exterior carapace of an incoming Ultralisk. Creeeeeaak! A crackle that sounded like trampling on a cockroach emerged, as a 40-50 cm dent coupled with horrific cracks imprinted onto the Ultralisk’s carapace. White bodily fluids bubbled out as the glowing vitality in the Ultralisk’s tiny eyes dimmed.
Yet this legendary creature was similarly in discomfort. The Ultralisk’s crescent bone-scythes had scraped into its body, and shoveled out a massive chunk of flesh! To the extent that its wound displayed the dense white ribs of the Hammerhead-Titanothere, and the peristalsis of its innards could be glimpsed clearly; which was presently covered by a durable membrane layer.
Authe could sense his old buddy beneath trembling not due to fear, but due to it reaching the peak of fury and agony! Authe shut his eyes; to such a domineering Mosake warrior, if he opted to abandon all and head deeper into the forest, he could definitely escape. However, Authe hadn’t harped on such a notion, because insanity and courage flowed within his veins. Apart from claiming vengeance for his comrades, Authe had never contemplated anything else!
He hooked out a water purse from his waist, and gulped down several mouthfuls. An aura of destruction was currently diffusing out from his body. When Authe finally fastened back the water purse to his waist and unhurried stretched out his arm, a shocking pure and sparkling ‘stone’ surfaced on his palm.
That ‘stone’ was exceedingly familiar to Sheyan, which was indeed a natural high purity (over 99.9%) Pandora crystal! Such an object though rare, was similar to natural high purity gold, and definitely not an impossibility. But especially to the native na’vi race, obtaining one would prove excruciatingly difficult.
Watching as Authe very devoutly clasped that high purity pandora crystal in his hands, Sheyan’s heart flushed with a troubled premonition.
Could it be, this fella has grasped a method of extracting the crystal energies?
A second later, suddenly, a white light flashed out from Authe’s palm, with the crystal as its nucleus!
The white light flickered weakly like fluorescent, and gradually crescendoed its blaze with shocking pace and finally exploded loudly. Then, it unexpectedly materialized into an expansive electrical network that covered the sky and enveloped its surroundings, finally sieving downwards in all directions like a net!!
The electric network rapidly bore its way towards the ground, like a sieve that would even filter the ground. Yet any zergling that touched it would instantly erupt into blood without uttering a single bark. Severely injured by the Hammerhead-Titanothere’s stomp, that Ultralisk was propelled away by the electric, but immediately knock against the electrical net descending behind it. Following that, a series of violent rupture ravaged its internal before the Ultralisk was reduced to 6 massive chunks of flesh; arachnid fluids splattered towards all sides. It was utterly dead!
Not only that, this expansive bright yellow electrical network, its net as thick as an arm, continued to wantonly crush down; like an invisible large palm kneading down onto the trees, branches, pastures, leaves and flowers, leaving behind a scattered mess. Bits of shredded flora fluttered and wafted through the air, sprinkling down like a shower. Within a radius of several dozen metres, the area appeared as if it had experienced an episode of a grand and catastrophic thunderstorm.
After tapping into the energies of a high purity Pandora crystal, the consequential harm dealt to Authe’s body was immense huge. The Hammerhead-Titanothere became evidently more dispirited, because it similarly had to share the yoke of Authe’s injuries.
While Authe was gasping for breath, a scene that he was most unwilling to see happened. Two elite Ultralisks before him were clearly covered in scars and bruises, and their peripheral chitin carapaces appeared apparently like shattered porcelain that was glued back. Their entire bodies were overflowing with ash gray mucus. Instead, they managed to wrestle back up with great difficulty, hobbling as they sandwiched him; one at the back, and one at the front.
Casting a gaze of absolute indifference and serenity!!!
In a faraway distant, nearly a hundred direhorses had clearly successfully escaped. All of a sudden, 300 zerglings borrowed out from the ground, as they sinisterly and viciously obstructed their advancing route!
Having concluded their battles, increasing thin streams of zerglings started congregating at the outskirts; intentionally or otherwise, they tightly plugged out all routes of escape for Authe!
10 minutes later. This field of Mosake clan pastures had been reduced to a mess. Amidst the mutilated mess, blood-curdling neighs continued to linger, sending alarming thrills to any listening ear. Sheyan finished off the rest of the Direhorse, and naturally wouldn’t spare Authe and his Hammerhead-Titanothere. Instead, after beating up the rest of the Mosake clan members till a severely handicapped state, he spared their lives.
But this wasn’t due to him being kind hearted, but purely Sheyan’s desire to increase the burden on the Mosake clan! A wounded member exhausting food supplies, the manpower and energy required would be doubled under normal circumstances! If Chieftain Cherokee were to take them in, he would have to shoulder those burdensome bundles. But if he were to disregard them, there would bound to be resentment amongst the people, and the clan dividing and crumbling internally would merely be a matter of time!
At this moment, Sheyan finally swung his head round and glanced towards the human imprisoned in the cage; more accurately putting, that contestant. Still as before, that brat coldly stared at Sheyan with an expression as though someone had owed him millions, and hadn’t returned it.
His hands were constricted with a queer black vine, looking as though it was soaked with some sort of venomous fluid; even dyeing his skin with a coat of deep black. It must’ve been a trademark secret of the Mosake clan, that could directly bind the abilities of this contestant.
Instead, Sheyan couldn’t care less to play any cheap tricks in front of this brat. He knew that this contestant most probably could return to the nightmare realm instantaneously, although it would mean forsaking all gains acquired in this world. Thus, not wanting to harm others without benefitting himself, he dispelled all notions pertaining to killing him for his key; and turned to walk off.
If there weren’t any accidents within roughly an hour, the Mosake clansmen who realized something wasn’t right would definitely rush here and they would be fully equipped. How were they going to handle that contestant, wasn’t an issue related to Sheyan anymore……..
When Sheyan and buddies had strolled roughly 50 metres away, that contestant ultimately couldn’t endure anymore and called out loudly.
You bunch of morons. Haven’t your pupils announced to you, there’s someone requiring aid here? How could you guys ignore my existence?
Brother Black inhaled his cigar fiercely, as he swung round and exclaimed in shock with a raised tone.
Is there?
That contestant responded with spitting anger.
Do you guys know, how much benefits you would have received from freeing me from this cursed wooden cage? Let me cite a simple example! Like that Hammerhead-Titanothere Rider Authe from before, there’s a huge chance of obtaining his dropped key!
Sheyan shrugged his shoulders.
Mister, pardon me for being frank, but if I haven’t remembered wrongly, you had previously resorted to immoral means of slaying that legendary Sturmbeest during the beast horde war, and plundered our killing contributions! Thus, I don’t believe cooperating with you is beneficial to us at all.
You’re really a petty person! Stop!
That contestant fumed frustratedly. Fine, fine. I won’t say much. Just state your price. What are your conditions for rescuing me?
Sheyan revealed a faint smirk as he turned around and once again sauntered towards his face.
Mr Sniper, or perhaps Mr Growth-hunter? Forgive me for addressing you in this manner. I’m guessing you’ve stayed till now is because of a certain vital purpose right. That is why you’d forsaken the plentiful mission rewards and chose to prolong your stay in this world. Therefore, to you, this is a matter of great significance. Could it be the Golden Side Mission?
That outstanding sniper snorted coldly in response.
Though the rewards of the Golden Side Mission would be exceptionally impressive, but its greatest value option is already useless to me. Thus, it isn’t worthwhile for me to squander such efforts over that. My true motive is something I naturally cannot tell you…….
TN: This chapter literally has no name.
Chapter 439: Speculative reward!
As he observed this Growth-hunter speaking frankly with assurance, Sheyan’s eyes suddenly flickered with a sharp glow and questioned.
The Golden Side Mission……..its greatest value option is already useless to you? Which means, that reward option was valuable before, but isn’t right now? To my inference, the rewards of the mission would only be those few options. So firstly, we can eliminate that the rewards wouldn’t discount any utility points, basic attribute points, achievement points and potential points.
Even though you’re a Growth-hunter, the Golden Side Mission equipment/weapon rewards still wouldn’t reach a state of being completely useless to your growth right! Nevertheless, you can still trade and sell good equipments and weapons that you’ve acquired. Therefore, the rewards of equipments and weapons can also be passed. The remaining possible answer, though it sounds far-fetched, is currently the most reasonable one.
Perhaps the greatest reward option of the Golden Side Mission……useful to you before, but now isn’t………is something that can allow a contestant to overlook the arduous test and directly overstep the boundary limit; a tool that allows one to directly become an official Growth-hunter?
When Sheyan issued that statement, even Mogensha and Reef unanimously inhaled deeply; a bizarre sensation that felt like their blood was boiling, and even combusting!
The difficulty of breaking through the boundary to become a Growth-Hunter was needless to say. One could clearly decipher it from Reef’s personal experience. If there was truly such a mystical object that could allow one to overstep such a hurdle, it would naturally send everyone going nuts!
That Growth-hunter suddenly became triggered emotionally as he gazed at Sheyan in amazement; seemingly attempting to recognize who this person was. Sheyan acted as if it was nothing and continued.
Alright, forget about what I just said, and let’s go back to topic. For someone to become a true sniping expert, patience and positioning would take precedence. Hence, like what AK had mentioned previously, you are probably able to instantly return to the nightmare realm, but having to forsake all acquired objects in this world as repercussions. In this manner, even if you miscalculated anything, you can still preserve your life. Thus, let us first presume what losses you would incur from forcefully returning to the realm……
Firstly, that Dark-gold grade accessory, something Zi had traded to you. Its valuation is something we are all clear about. Secondly, you will lose the important mission you are currently undertaking. I reckon, mission failure isn’t something you wish to accept as well. Lastly, from the perspective of your abilities, there is a 75% chance that you’d purchased that item – the ‘Unmodeled Amnio-tank’. As for the basic attribute points and achievement points rewards garnered from this world, we don’t have to talk about those…..am I correct so far?
The Growth-hunter sniper’s expression immediately sank. He could already guess the words Sheyan was going to say, thus, his glare turned malicious. Sheyan immediately turned to leave.
My temperament isn’t very good, and I dislike it when someone shows attitude to me. Since saving someone would instead stir up more troubles and uncalled variables, forget it, let’s leave.
The Growth-hunter shut his eyes in anguish, as he clenched his fist tighter. The taste of having to appease someone else was absolute not a good one! If according to his character, and if he could’ve escaped earlier, but…….but once this mission fails, such agony was something that he absolutely couldn’t bear! Thus, this Growth-hunter immediately opened his mouth, gritting his teeth as he issued.
……..fine! You won! I acknowledge you possess an extremely keen sense of deduction. What do you want in return?
Sheyan spun round with squinted eyes, as he glanced at the Growth-hunter who had made preparations for an impending heartache. He finally offered with a dull tone.
I believe that the ‘Unmodeled Amnio-tank’ would be a relatively reasonable remuneration for rescuing you.
After Sheyan issued his offer, the Growth-hunter immediately turned dazed. He had originally prepared himself to be exploited off his ‘family fortunes’, but the condition raised by Sheyan indeed caused certain invisible discrepancies within his heart – a sense of reasonableness. Hence, he very straightforwardly acceded to this condition, and frankly drafted in an official realm contract with Sheyan – if Sheyan saves him, he would deliver the item.
Despite Sheyan appearing like he was on the losing end, delving deeper into this matter would suggest otherwise. Sheyan’s current choice was – to save or not to save.
If he didn’t save, there wouldn’t be a single benefit to the trio. Moreover, this powerful Growth-hunter sniper would inevitably harbour a bone-deep hatred towards them, placing them into his hit-list. Such a choice would be the worst, the kind that belonged to ‘harming others and harming oneself’.
Thus, rescuing him would in fact, serve the greatest benefits to them.
From here, saving would then branch out two options. First, a reasonable choice of adequate remuneration. Second, to be a wide mouthed lion, greedily consuming exploitations.
A reasonable remuneration option would be the best in lowering his opponent’s hostility against him, enhancing the possibility of co-operations; besides, from the Growth-hunter’s actions so far, it could be inferred his current goal was similarly the Mosake Clan. In this world, there wasn’t love without cause or reason. Similarly, there wouldn’t be hatred without cause or reason.
After Sheyan and duo had demonstrated sufficient strength, they managed to rescue this Growth-hunter from the prison cage of hopelessness. Next, they demanded the remuneration of the ‘Unmodeled Amnio-Tank’. This remuneration hadn’t match this Growth-hunter’s expectations, and thus it was something he could easily accept. This reasonability and logic was akin to paying up for a meal you purchased on the streets; few would brood over having to pay up for a meal they had already eaten – unless it was indeed a total rip off.
Being a wide mouthed lion may seem like a good move to rake in immense fortunes, but the opposing party would no doubt harbour an intensified motive for revenge. Not only would it hinder the completion of the Golden Side Mission and lower its completion chance, it could lead to greater hidden dangers in the future, were they to encounter him in other worlds.
Therefore, rescuing him in a reasonable manner, was truthfully the best advantage to them. Following that, it was needless to say. After finishing their trade, Sheyan discovered one fact. That was the ‘Unmodeled Amnio-Tank’ could actually be placed in their party shared storage, and still retain functionality. In this manner, should any official member of their party perish, the ‘Unmodeled Amnito-Tank’ would automatically trigger its resurrection ability. Thus, Sheyan didn’t employ it for selfish enjoyment, but allowed it to become an insurance for everyone’s life.
Instead after they had walked several hundred metres away, that Growth-hunter came chasing up. After a slight hesitation, he reached out his hand to Sheyan.
Seaman. You have my gratitude for rescuing me from that darn cage. I am Mcdh.
(ED: That name is impossible to pronounce, no vowels, it’s basically Czech)
Sheyan obviously knew it was a bogus name, but a name was merely just used to address. More importantly, there was an underlying hidden meaning behind him chasing up to them. Thus, Sheyan too reached out his hand and chuckled.
Regarding that, it was something you paid for, Mr Mcdh. Therefore, under reasonable grounds of trade, both parties have fulfilled their due obligation. There is no need for thanks.
Mcdh then glanced at those zerglings beside Sheyan, as he investigatively inquired.
Those are your summoned creatures?
Sheyan smiled reluctantly.
I really wish they were mine, then I would presently be able to gleefully retrieve Authe’s dropped key loot.
Mcdh asked curiously.
Then why are they being so obedient?
Brother Black laughed quietly.
That is indeed a good question, brother, but not something we can answer to. If you are able to find the answer yourself, then we really wouldn’t mind.
Mcdh shrugged his shoulders and extremely earnestly replied.
I know what I’m about to say may sound presumptuous, but your current mission goal should be the Mosake clan right? I am too. Since that’s the case, why not we collaborate? My mission will definitely not conflict with yours, because this is to revive my beloved. My beloved who had utilized ‘Fairy’s praise’ had transformed into a seed!
‘Fairy’s Praise’ – this term was vaguely familiar to Sheyan. He immediately recalled about Venter and his beloved, and the word ‘revive’ also caused him to unknowingly think back to the un-revived Metals Professor. He couldn’t help but questioned.
(TN: Venter is an opponent he encountered in the Harry Potter World)
Is a revival mission so difficult? Something that requires engaging in this war?
Mcdh sincerely answered.
For a perfect resurrection, the mission’s difficulty would indeed be this outrageous. If I wanted to merely revive her to a state of ‘first entering into the realm’, then the mission would be relatively ok.
Sheyan pondered a little before replying.
Then how far have you accomplished till now?
Mcdh answered.
This revival mission is just beneath my eyes, the final step! I can no longer endure anymore days without her. Every additional second not seeing her is my greatest torment! I have no other remunerations for you guys, because I have to provide her adequate equipments and points for her to carry on surviving in this realm. However, I can promise that in the upcoming battles, I will not participate in any division of battle loots. What do you guys think?
Undoubtedly, the monstrosity of Mcdh’s offensive prowess was something they had all personally witnessed. If they recruited his assistance, then this would truthfully supply them options of devising certain battle tactics that wasn’t possible previously. Apart from that, the experiences of such a formidable sniper like Mcdh would very likely be a great help to them. His current words was indeed tough for anyone to reject.
Since that was the case, Sheyan dropped an expression to Brother Black. Mogensha immediately bounced forward, and offered a loud resistance.
Oi! Boss, I object. Since we already possess great confidence in our mission, why would we want any unnecessary side variables?
Chapter 440: Closely Interrelated
Mogensha’s current outburst was actually within justifiable grounds; because be it a personal or group perspective, if Mcdh were to temporarily collaborate, being a similar long range combatant would definitely dilute Mogensha’s contributions and rewards within the party. Putting it bluntly, if a long range weapon/equipment were to surface, with the addition of Mcdh, Mogensha’s sole indulgence would have to be divided into two portions……… When Mcdh heard Mogensha’s words, it seemed like he was already prepared and scoffed faintly.
If my speculation is correct, you guys are attempting to complete the insanely difficult Golden Side Mission. Even with a powerful summoner alongside you, just based on these low level zerglings and rather few elite legendary creatures, it is absolutely impossible to defeat the Mosake Clan!
Sheyan questioned suspiciously.
How are you aware of the contents of the Golden Side Mission?
Mcdh battered an eye at Sheyan before he earnestly replied.
For a medium intensity war, the peak power should be an official Growth-hunter. In truth, it is truly a minute probability occurrence for me to enter this world alone. Hence, it is impossible for an Awakener that had already gone through a transcending job advancement, to appear. Therefore, I can tell you the Golden Side missions for the Avatar world, only presents a few possibilities.
(TN: I’m guessing an Awakener is the 3rd stage of contestants. So roughly this is the levelling chart: Contestants –> Reserve-duty Growth-hunter –> Growth-hunter –> Awakener?)
The first is acquiring a model body of Mother Nature Eywa. The second would be hunting / capturing / taming a Great Leonopteryx. The third would be to destroy the Omaticaya Hometree within 24 hours. The fourth is Cherokee’s sacrifice. The fifth would be demolishing Hell’s Gate.
As Sheyan listened to Mcdh, his eyes flickered with an unfathomable glow of thought. Instead, Mcdh continued.
Amongst these 5 missions, the toughest challenge would be to demolish Hell’s Gate. That is because when defending, the Colonel’s commanding armoured fleet would demonstrate a might that surpassess all human imagination. Forget about that, but more importantly, once someone accepts a Golden Side Mission; from that very moment, no matter who but as long as you are a human, boldly aggressing a RDA worker would instantly earn you an undispellable negative buff. That buff is called ‘Race Deserter’ – which forcefully lowers all your basic attributes by 50%. This negative buff will follow you persistently until you leave this very world! Battling under such a state, I’m sure you know the consequences of that.
Right, that is a mission that many have attempted, but up till today, I’ve never heard of anyone accomplishing it before. As for Cherokee’s sacrifice, its difficulty is ranked the second amongst the missions. According to my understanding, it also maintains an awkward completion record of 0%, and the difficulty of this mission lies primarily in time duration. As for the other Golden Side Missions, they’ve all been conquered.
Upon hearing Mcdh’s words, Sheyan gently nodded his head. In fact, he had already acknowledged this fact long ago, that is why he forsook all his costly rewards in exchange for a prolonged stay in this world. At present, Mcdh could already determine that Sheyan should’ve had already made a resolute final decision on assisting him or not. Thus, he didn’t mind divulging more information.
The Mosake clan is already sufficiently indomitable. Moreover, under the state that all its clansmen are beast tamers, to defeat a single Mosake warrior, it is akin to having to beat down two or even 3 wild beasts with closely identical strength! Hence, even if all contestants that had entered this world were to collaborate together, it would still be impossible to clash head on. The only method would be like what you’ve just done, devising small traps and skirmishes to wither away at the Mosake clan’s strength.
Sheyan nodded in response.
What you’ve said is correct.
Mcdh’s lips curled into a faint smile. He was definitely a shewed individual. Even by rambling about all these, his words definitely contained concealed daggers. As he observed the opposing gradually drawn towards him expectantly by his words, such a feeling of success was indeed incomparable.
However, the Mosake clan similarly contains many highly intellectual characters. After suffering any sudden ambushes, they would undoubtedly react swiftly and not commit the same error. Even if they were to venture out, they would surely bring along sufficient manpower, and raise their vigilance exceedingly. Therefore, another sneaky ambush would not occur again.
Perhaps you are thinking that their enormous population would become flustered in the face of food deficiency, but I have to inform you. The Mosake clan has always have the practice of stockpiling food supplies, because Pandora ever so often experiences irregular intervals of continuous rainy seasons. Thus, they always store up food supplies and more critically, the they can rely on these food supplies and coup themselves within their old nests. At least, they will last much longer than your period of stay in this world!
Upon hearing this news, Sheyan’s expression slightly changed.
I have to admit, this report is rather valuable.
Mcdh continued advising earnestly.
Therefore at this period, you would require an exceptionally formidable long range combatant. Someone that can repeatedly chisel their forces away, no matter how well hidden the Mosake clansmen are; sinking them into frightful panic. Although saying in this manner sounds rather bold and conceited, only I can fulfill that role. Thus, our collaboration will be your best decision.
Sheyan very seriously listened to the words of this powerful Growth-hunter, and declined to comment on his final suggestion. Instead, he smiled lightly and replied with a gentle tone.
Mister Mcdh, I will have to deliberate a little on your suggestion. So, please grant me 3 hours before I can give you an answer. During this period, we can still travel together. You should know, to persuade an ally that harbours differentiated opinions would require some time.
Mcdh massaged the areas of his wrists and ankles where the skin had turned deeply black. This was the same special venom the Mosake clan utilizes to induce a compelling paralysis onto gigantic beasts, while not harming their life force. This was also one of the greatest reason that the Mosake clan, who had lost favour from Mother Nature Eywa, could still continue expanding in strength. Just reflecting on the limbs of the bear, Bluster, one could indeed understand this fact; to tame a wrestling animal as compared to an immobile one, it would pose at least 5-6 times the difficulty challenge.
(TN: Bluster is a bear from the Dark Elves trilogy novel.)
Facing Sheyan’s suggestion, Mcdh very gladfully agreed. The 3 hours duration wasn’t sufficient for him to recover from his strength decay due to the venom. Hence, even if Sheyan had suggested a 6 hours period, he would still immediately gladly accept.
Concurrently, he was also feeling rather surprised. The difficulty of Golden Side Missions always revolved around the essentiality of coordinating everyone’s ability to raise a chance of accomplishing it. Yet in the end, the reward could only be acquired by one person! By not collaborating with Zi and the rest, how could Seaman possibly wish to complete this mission?
Of course, Mcdh’s generosity also stemmed from his obliviousness to the trio having sparked news of a Silver title ‘One hand to cover Heaven’. If not, what kind of concept was a +1 legend level title! Even most Growth-hunters weren’t aware of such a term known as legend level!
After advancing through the forest for 30 minutes, Mcdh started to become even more amazed. He had begun scrutinizing the jellyfish creature floating in the air right ahead with shock. Mcdh obviously knew this was an arachnid Overlord, which was something commonly seen in the Starship Trooper world.
Mcdh could even confirm that he himself, had personally eliminated at least 20 of such Overlords. But obviously, he hadn’t sampled the freedom of flying aboard such a creature. Even more so, he hadn’t tasted a journeying process alongside overlords packed with 50 zerglings, as they soared through dozens of kilometres. Afterwards, the multitudes of zerglings were air dropped at the outskirts of the Mosake clan buildings on the Windstone Highland; and personally witnessed these ‘irrational even to death’ zerglings flood in berserkly like a tsunami!
Presently, Mcdh was even more startled. According to logic, these foreign bugs would easily face the assaults from native wild creatures. However, he wasn’t aware that Mother Nature Eywa had previously summoned hordes of beasts, and had amassed her ferocious aerial creatures to another region.
Right now, Sheyan’s gentle whispers were seemingly still ringing in Mcdh’s ears.
Hey, Mister Mcdh. Please refrain from being alarmed. Without approval from one, I would never allow one to exert any efforts. Therefore, what you need to do now is just spectate, and patiently observe, or retreat when you sense danger. We don’t require you to open fire, and I also wouldn’t mind answering your queries. But of course, only when I have the time.
Indeed, the vigorous full force of the Mosake clan had emerged from their residing nest. One of the Mosake clansmen whom Sheyan had purposefully released, should’ve returned to the clan half an hour ago. With a body riddled with wounds, he should’ve informed his redoubtable chieftain, Cherokee.
An unprecedented pack of foreign fiends had ambushed our grazing pastures, Angtsik Makto (Hammerhead-Titanothere rider) Authe was locked in a gruelling battle, and died to his foe.
Hence, the following sequence of events were – Chieftain Cherokee’s first reaction was to immediately inquire about the enemy’s strengths and weaknesses. Once he had fathomed the enemy’s strength (several hundreds of zerglings + few elite legendary Ultralisks), he released an ordinary command to incite the entire nest in a vendetta for vengeance. However, when they arrived at the grazing pastures to rescue those heavily wounded members, this was coincidentally the moment when Sheyan led a legion of 600 ravenous zerglings to descend on the Windstone Highland. Noteworthily, after the Mother of the Blackthorn had been bestowed greater strength by the Blade Empress previously, the Overlord’s capacity had also risen.
Right now, one had to admit the Mosake clan’s might was truthfully impressive. Even though their main forces had left, the remaining clansmen that had stayed only required a short span of 20 minutes to cleanse out the rush of zerglings invading from all four directions. If not for their inadequate manpower being their greatest hindrance, then, this cleansing would’ve been shortened from 20 minutes to 10 minutes.
TN: For those that are confused, Mcdh should be an official Growth-Hunter based on what author writes. Also, here is my personal opinion: he entered this world alone, so based on his individual power, it is a small possibility for him to enter this world. In comparison, Zi entered with a party, so she is evaluated with her party not on her individual power.
TN: I wonder if you guys still remember this, but when Jinkuang previously showed Sheyan a flea as a pet, named Basite or Cuisite, it was supposed to be Bluster and Drizzt. Which are references to the Dark Elf novel, one is a bear while the other a drow ranger. This happened back in ch 54 or 55 of the previous volume, but I couldn’t find out the terms for the chinese character at that point. I’ve since amended the terms.
Chapter 441: Interlocked stratagems! Deadly ploy!
Yet this 20 minute duration proved sufficient for Sheyan to smoothly acquire two skirmish objectives.
First, to survey the terrain of the Mosake Clan’s residence.
Two, to as much as possible, destroy the storage of the Mosake clan’s food supplies.
To Sheyan’s delight, the Mosake clan’s food storage method was actually ideally identical to humankind, like two tunes leading to the same result. The food supplies were stored in an underground freezer room, where massive blocks of ice were placed. Hence, due to that connection, he saved at least 5 minutes of time; directly strapping a high intensity explosive onto a zergling. From here on, he would just need to wait for the food storage cellar to explode and collapse within a definite time.
In view that planet Pandora’s current average temperature hovered around 28 degrees and above, no matter how powerful chieftain Cherokee was, chances of reconstructing a new freezer in a short time would be virtually zero.
After witnessing such a scene, Mcdh suddenly felt somewhat perplexed and in disbelief. That was because he had discovered that the trio hadn’t reaped a single benefit ever since this raid begun. Not even a single utility point, or a white grade equipment……
Thus, the dreadful reality lies in that! That indicated these epic horde of arachnids were genuinely not summoned creatures from Sheyan or the other duo! Which goes to say, behind the backs of this trio, there was a certain frightening storyline character. No, an even clearer analysis could be made, that it was a superpower that was selflessly aiding them! He realized now, that he had initially vastly underestimated the prowess of this group of contestants!
Shit, never once have I heard of an arachnid race residing on planet Pandora.
Could this arachnid race that appeared out of nowhere have…….been induced by them on this planet Pandora?
But how is that possible! In fact, I’ve heard before that once someone’s reputation has reached a certain level in the Starship Trooper world, it is possible to purchase mining machineries from relevant powerful authorities, that can harvest pandora crystals; that includes arachnid drones as well. However, they would possess only harvesting capabilities ah…….
(TN: In vol 5 ch 59, author states the arachnid drone egg Sheyan purchased possesses all capabilities of an ordinary drone, not just harvesting. So I guess his are special eggs. Also from ch 82 this vol, author states that he and the Blackthorn overmind had arranged a special communication link beforehand.)
Mcdh was indeed a knowledgeable fellow, and could already scarcely graze against the truth of the matter! However, what he didn’t know, was that Sheyan had a slut named Jinkuang with him. A slut that could turn rotting into miracles, transforming the impossible into reality!
Having met their skirmish objectives, Sheyan and the rest were presently riding an arachnid overlord as they swiftly left the Windstone Highland. When they glanced down from their elevated altitude, they could distinctly see billowing clouds of dust and ash dashing through the broad land beneath. That was obviously the hastily returning Mosake warrior battalion after realizing something was awry.
Sheyan had clearly exploited the absence of a Mosake clan aerialforce; playing this tremendously invincible barbaric clan within his palms, by smoothly leveraging his superior flight travelling duration disparity. Such a scheme involuntarily caused a faint thread of apprehension within Mcdh’s heart……witnessing the performance of might Sheyan and buddies were displaying, his strength alone, felt like it had seemingly been tossed to the edge of weakness!
In actual fact, his exterior haughtiness and indifference were merely a feign. Just understanding how unrivalled Mcdh’s sniping and long range shooting was, it would be impossible to conceal the powerlessness and deficiency in the aspect of close combat of this peak Growth-hunter.
As he observed the dense Pandorian forest drifting speedily past beneath him, the more Mcdh pondered, the more he felt an urge to speak up and break this awkward silent atmosphere. Inside the body of the overlord, he pushed away a twisted fleshy tentacle and coughed before he broke the silence.
Where are we headed to now?
Sheyan smirked faintly.
Of course to the birthplace of the overlords. Oh, we’re about to arrive.
Mcdh once utterly shakened. As he gazed towards the view ahead; not even 30 seconds had elapsed since flying in this overlord, but the sight of the Blackthorn tribe’s subsidiary base at the Triangle Shoals surfaced in his eyes. This formidable Growth-Hunter heaved in a deep breath as his ears suddenly resounded with the harsh words Golden AK has spoken before –
Oi! Boss, I object. Since we already possess great confidence in our mission, why would we want any unnecessary side variables?
All of a sudden, Mcdh realized that those words were very possibly the truth!! That damned black ghost wasn’t attempting to pull a bluff to gain some extortion from our negotiations previously! His words are actually true!!!
After a whole 24 hours of incubating, the subsidiary base of the Blackthorn tribe had already reached a junior scale. Although their current area had expanded to only roughly a quarter, the quantities of drones were relatively plenty. These tireless brats were incessantly mining and harvesting low purity ores, before compressing them to fragments, and finally squirting out liquids to refine them.
One had to acknowledge, harvesting such low grade pandora crystal ores was indeed a rather time consuming affair. Thus, the mining efficiency of the drones was inevitably limited. However, to the Blackthorn Overmind whose wings were already fully developed, time was no longer a pressing factor to him.
Moreover, to the delight of the Blackthorn Overmind, when comparing the pandora crystals between the Kiwatakin clan ruins and the Triangle Shoals, although the former contained natural purities 10 folds of the latter, when comparing in terms of reserves quantities, the latter was a hundred folds that of the former! This no doubt signified that as long as the Blackthorn tribe colonized these 2 ore mines, there wouldn’t be a need to search for newer ore veins for at least 50 years.
The overlord’s landing was without a sound nor tremor, allowing full serenity and comfort for its carrying passengers. It was a stark contrast to its vile and eccentric appearance. As he stepped onto the arachnid ‘Creep’ carpet, Mcdh stamped his feet around this unfamiliar discomfort. He frowned as he examined the mucus beneath his feet. After scanning once through the arachnid’s base, he randomly blurted out.
The defensive fortification here is truly tight, there’s actually an entire array of 30 Sunken Colonies!
Sheyan smiled slightly in response.
Ah, that is because some guests would be visiting us soon.
Guests?
Mcdh curiously asked.
Why would there be guests here?
Sheyan returned a mysterious sneer and replied.
You’ll understand soon enough. According to my primary estimation, these guests should arrive in roughly 20 minutes.
Mcdh repressed the urge to continue asking, because he had frustratedly realized that in his carelessness, he had suddenly been influenced and drawn into the conversing tempo of the opposing party; and this was indeed not a good omen.
Yet very quickly, Mcdh discovered something – in rough intervals of one minute, a blood drenched and battered zergling would sprint in from faraway! At the start, he didn’t felt like it was something bewildering, but eventually……..Mcdh’s pupils suddenly contracted!
At this moment, a clarity had formed in Mcdh’s mind pertaining to the ploy of this group! The raid back at the pastures was merely a foreshadowing, a beginning! Ambushing the grazing herds first, to raiding and rummaging the nest of the Mosake clan; then purposefully leaving traces of hints to lure the Mosake clan into a vendetta from afar. A ploy within a ploy, schemes within schemes. It could also be described as agitating the opponent’s spirits, while exhausting their bodies! An act of calculating the actions of one’s foe to the limits, and thereby withering their fighting capabilities to the limits!
He could feel his lips turning coarse in this instant, as though every spoken word was immersed inside the deserts of the mediterranean sea.
You……you aren’t possibly intending to bait the Mosake clan here?
Thinking of that, Mcdh couldn’t help but shiver. Instead, Brother Black who was presently chewing his gum forcefully, while rapping and swaying his head, snorted as he swung around.
Is there a problem? My man?
You guys are nuts!!!
Mcdh snarled indignantly and fumed loudly.
You guys don’t know how terrifying the Mosake clan is! These Sunken Colonies possess a powerful offence, but they absolutely cannot prevent the onslaught of that fanatically beast tide!!! You could’ve waited you know. With the cover of hundreds of zerglings, even if they couped themselves within the Windstone Highland, I could’ve at least eliminated 7-8 ordinary clansmen!
Brother Black shook his finger silently as he scoffed.
That may not be true. Do you dare to bet? 5,000 utility points! Oh right, if you’re afraid, then you are free to leave first.
Mcdh’s facial muscles twitched slightly. At presently, he genuinely wished he could point two middle fingers at this cursed thick lips black ghost with a ‘f you’. However, that conduct would undoubtedly ruin and shatter the cool appearance he had painstakingly built. Hence, Mcdh could only forcefully endure.
Currently, he also desired to leave, because his rationality was warning him of the horrific dangers to his life if he continued staying. However, Mcdh couldn’t not admit that the individuals in party Ace were definitely not fools. Truthfully, any fool definitely wouldn’t have been able to stay in this Avatar world till now. He was only dying to understand one fact – where the hell are those 3 brats getting their ridiculous confidence from!!!?!
A billowing cloud of dust and ash surged up from afar like a raging dragon.
They had finally arrived.
Incoming was the full force of the Mosake clan. Moreover, this savage and immensely daunting clan was boiling with extreme fury. First, was the death of their shepherding clansmen, and causing the Direhorse herd, which took 3 years to establish, to go up in smokes.
Second, was when they spontaneously campaigned out, their Windstone Highland residence had been raided. The clan’s painstaking efforts of constructing a freezer had been demolished and buried underground. Furthermore, almost half of the houses had been wrecked.
Yet the worst part was; a tier-7 legendary Thanator that was unwilling to be tamed had been accidentally released from captivity, and smoothly escaped after completely venting its rage!
Chapter 442: A war of meat grinders
Cherokee had expended lengthy efforts and blood to capture that Thanator. Even without mentioning the harm and damages inflicted on his clansmen and the destruction of his home, to capture another beast as powerful as it would require at least 6 months, possibly 30 clansmen lives, unending plotting and an awful load of luck.
Hence, one could imagine the state when the powerful Cherokee had discovered clear trails of his enemy’s escape, immediately roaring a furious command to pursue urgently. This time, he no longer bothered with leaving any clansmen to protect their home, because there was seemingly nothing valuable left worth protecting. Furthermore, the entire hierarchy of the Mosake clan, be it male, female or the elderly, were all warriors. Their only difference lies merely in the disparity of their strength.
Cherokee was definitely not a recklessly irascible individual. Presently, the major portion of the clan’s wear and tear was mainly due to internal aspects and materialistic goods. Instead, the fighting prowess of the clan could only be described as enhanced by rage rather than declining. It was obvious; the hidden enemy in the darkness would only resort to such underhand means, going round the curves and skirting the corners, because their strength was inadequate. Therefore, they only needed to directly crush them, totally decimating them before they could even flee; that would suffice to smash all cradles of schemes the enemy were harbouring!
Relying on a pair of highly magnified binoculars, Sheyan could easily differentiate out Chieftain Cherokee from the other na’vi warriors. This wasn’t because the chieftain was modelled uniquely, or had peculiar bone structures, or having the back of a tiger and waist of a bear, or had a starkly different facial appearance. Instead, it was due to that exceedingly menacing Thanator he mounted beneath his waist.
In stark contrast to one’s imagination, Cherokee appeared essentially like a frail old man. His back was crooked and his face filled with cut like wrinkles. From his left shoulder till the bottom of his right rib, was an exceptionally glaring scar! It was as though, if his injuries sustained were even more severe previously, it would’ve directly chopped him into two!
The only perceiving irregularity was his eyes, an insidious chill hidden within the incisiveness; like a rapid grinding saw, slowly carving away at one’s mind as if it was sawing timber!
In the face of an immense hatred, any superfluous words were futile. The Mosake clansmen faced the foreign and massive succulent base, the enormous alien meat organs, the queer structures that were messily squirting starch fluids; then, they very brazenly…….dispatched the most units under their control, as multitudes of cannon fodder viperwolves charged forth! (meanwhile on the viperwolves’ faces – why is it us again 🙁 )
The Sunken Colonies started unleashing their maroon tendrils, impaling towards their foes hundreds of metres away. Their positioning fully encompassed the base in a circle, hence there wasn’t a single blind spot in their defence. Needless to say, the proceeding events were analogous to the beast tides of before. Ultimately, without the right conditions, success wouldn’t follow. Thus, the Mosake clan’s first onslaught suffered a thwarting defeat. The only war fruits of the nearly 300 viperwolves could only cause 3 Sunken Colonies to erupt into a fountain of blood. Instead, their carcasses were swiftly decomposed and absorbed by the ‘Creep’ carpet.
I wasn’t wrong right!
Mcdh’s tone already contained a stifling fluster.
The first probing assault of the Mosake clan was already so effective. Though 30 Sunken Colonies appears extraordinarily impressive, without massive congregations of zerglings blocking its front, it would become relatively weak. It isn’t too late to leave now.
No hurries.
Sheyan chuckled gently. His gaze was fixated towards the back of an arachnid lair. Suddenly, a greyish giga-cocoon surfaced over that plain region, and wiggled repeatedly; as though the creatures within were eagerly on the verge of drilling out.
Consecutively, most of the Mosake clan warriors could already fathom their enemy’s prowess clearly. They began booming sonorously as they charged in; with a force comprising a mix of viperwolves/ direhorses/ sturmbeest as the leading close combat fleet, with slingers tailing behind as the long range squad. However, never ever forget, every na’vi individual was an excellent archer! Positioned at the rear, the threat they posed was the most fearsome.
Some of these master beast-tamers were identical to snipers like Mcdh on the battlefield. Their ejection of their two metre long arrows, smeared with concentrated venom, was like a spectacular nightmare. Even those organ structures that had been struck were rapidly withered away in time, degenerating to a wilted state.
The remaining 28 Sunken Colonies were practically eroded away at an astonishing pace. Mcdh’s countenance was utterly downcast, fortunately for him, he had already recovered some basic strength needed for escape. Yet for some unknown reason, he suddenly felt a strong urge to witness the trio’s faces being slapped by the palm of cruel reality; to gloat at the horrified and startled expressions they were about to reveal!
This is fine too. I reckon the suggestion that I’ll raise later, will then be valued greatly.
Mcdh couldn’t help but thought gleefully to himself. He had enough of this trio occasionally and carelessly exposing haughty expressions of confidence, as if they had cards up their sleeves. Such purposeful carelessness had kind of deeply damaged the degree of conceitedness Mcdh had.
They should know, even Zi had to remain courteous to me. Even Prince Stalo, someone who could already touch the doors of the Awakener realm, had to cower in the face of my gun! If not to revive her, why would I even be bullshitting with you guys for!
As he held a deep conviction for the coming success, Mcdh remained indifferently arrogant as he strolled towards the trio and solemnly advised.
Gentlemen, in view that these fleshy buildings can still earn us a precious 30 seconds duration, we should leave now. The only consequence of staying, would be being squeezed out of their drainage system, after passing through the digestive tracts of those uncouth wild beasts and barbaric aboriginals!
Sheyan turned his head over, his expression actually portraying a sly smirk – one that undoubtedly caused relative disappointment and dejection to Mcdh!
Ho, my friend, do you think this is the end? No, a marvellous performance is about to commence!
A marvellous performance? ……..I, what, heavens……what is that thing!
Mcdh’s pupils suddenly shrank back.
Standing in his current position, he finally saw that breeding giga-cocoon stealthily hiding behind that towering lair! Right at the instance the final Sunken Colony exploded, it coincidentally sounded off the advanced ‘Nydus Worm’ gateway of the arachnid race rupturing out from the cocoon, as it stood uprightly erected!
A humongous malevolent gateway that could fold space and ‘teleport’ units in a split second, once again towered over the lands of planet Pandora!
A dozen plus Ultralisks coupled with epic hordes of zerglings flushed in like a flood, pressing forward insatiably with hysterical vigor, as they clashed head on with the incoming Mosake clan warriors!
At this moment, the Mosake clansmen had already invaded into the ranks of the arachnid base, even destroying several organ structures by now. Therefore, per the agreement between Mother Nature Eywa, the arachnid’s retaliation wasn’t considered violating the regulations at all. Amidst the mournful blood-curdling screams, both parties collided with unequalled ferocity.
(TN: recap, the agreement’s fourth condition was that the earlier 3 restrictions could be temporarily lifted if anyone initiates hostility against the Blackthorn tribe)
Sheyan’s warfare methodology resembled a reef that stood upright against the raging gales and violent waves; waves after waves enveloping him, still he persevered amidst all perilous situations! Leaving an impression that once both sides clashed, then the fight would not cease until one suffers a pulverizing defeat, where bones would shatter and disperse into oblivion!
Right now, when the Mosake clan and the arachnid race collided, they resembled two simultaneously and speedily whirling meat grinders; insanely engulfing each other’s lives in the process of overlapping!
As flesh and blood splattered and scattered, several arachnid organ structures were forcefully pounced on and exploded. It looked as if the entire state was exceedingly disadvantageous to the arachnid side. The Mosake clan beasts hordes had already infiltrated within a third of the base; the misty pollution of blood stench in the air acted like adrenaline, as it aroused the bloodlust of every creature.
Instead, Cherokee observed the situation’s development with a gloomy countenance. Standing tall beside him were 13 others, each were powerful riders having dominion over a legendary creature. Hammerhead-Titanothere rider Authe had originally been part of these 11, but he had already fallen into eternal slumber inside Mother Nature’s embrace.
The entire battlefield had once again sunk into an awkward war of attrition. Dozens of sparse zerglings along with 1-2 Ultralisks would always stream out from the Nydus Worm at crucial moments, critically reinforcing the crumbling battlelines. The present impression was that the arachnid defence lines would be infiltrated at any second; however, no matter how much strength they exerted, the herculean and incomparably tough Mosake clan warriors constantly failed by a thread!
What they needed was just one thread!
Perhaps this thread could be a few viperwolves, or perhaps just a single slinger. If only they could supply in a few more sharp arrows, to utterly collapse the obstinate tenacity of their foes…….yet in war, such words like ‘if only’ or ‘perhaps’ didn’t exist.
This state persisted for roughly a minute, before chieftain Cherokee raised the scepter gripped in his left hand. Then he pointed towards 3 legendary beast-riders behind him.
In comparison to several viperwolves, a single slinger, and few sharp arrows, the wholesome might of 3 legendary beast-rider magnified theirs by a hundred, or thousand folds!
At present one could perceive; chieftain Cherokee’s character was exceedingly resolute and daring. Once he decided to fight, then like a lion seizing a rabbit, he would throw in an extravagant amount of strength! Seeking for just one strike, to thoroughly smash his opponent!
But after the 3 ‘second to none’ legendary beast-riders roared thunderously and charged into battle, the arachnids of the battlefield swiftly executed a single move.
They abandoned 3 blocks of organ structures that were originally strictly guarded, proceeding to shrink their defence circle, squeezing inseparably closer together. Simultaneously, 7-8 drones begun incubating new Sunken Colonies on the ‘Creep’ carpet. After this one retreat, the situation immediately returned to normal. Meanwhile, the demolishing of those few gigantic organ structures roughly tarried the beasts for scarcely 30 seconds.
Chapter 443: Cherokee’s counterattack
During that 30 seconds period, the Nydus Worm coughed out another batch of zerglings and Ultralisk into the arachnid fleet, quietly replenishing whichever corners required. After another brief period had lapsed, new incubated Sunken Colonies had sprung up!
The warring state continued submerging into a drawn out war of attrition…..
The addition of 3 legendary beast-riders appeared successful, yet they had merely slew some arachnids, destroyed several Sunken Colonies, and 3 harmless organ structures that supplied no assistance to the battling!!
At this moment, Mcdh was utterly stupefied! He couldn’t help but mumbled to himself.
How could there be such an individual that can grasp the battlefield sequence so precisely…….how is it possible for an individual to grasp the battlefield state so accurately!
To actually be able to erode the enemy’s forces under such circumstances; granting the Mosake clan a misconception that victory was within reach, but in actual fact, victory was unattainable all along!
Chewing on a gum, Brother Black swung round and glanced at him before laughing mischievously.
There’ll always be some freaks that surface, ain’t that right?
(TN: author is prolly referring to the Blackthorn overmind and not Sheyan. Sheyan isn’t capable of controlling the entire arachnid army, but only give instructions/commands)
Following that, Mcdh once again shook his head and issued gravely.
Chieftain Cherokee is greedy and cunning, but also a cautious fellow. He isn’t so easily dealt with, and it wouldn’t be long before he orders a withdrawal.
Sheyan suddenly interrupted indifferently.
That may not be true. Since they’ve already come, trying to leave now wouldn’t be simple feat.
They witnessed as the stalemate battlelines persisted for another 5 minutes, with lives continuously falling with each fleeting second. Chieftain Cherokee’s expression was presently as deep as water. Suddenly, he retrieved a bugle horn from the saddle of the Thanator beside him.
His bugle horn was coated in crimson blood, and engraved with helix vein lines. Estimatedly as long as two metres, he curved it towards the sky in a 45 degrees angle. It was as though its periphery was densely layered with a dull glow of blood, causing one to stand on edge!
Chieftain Cherokee then lifted his head and blew the bugle horn. A mournful pensive tone echoed into the air, like an unsophisticated yet rich tide that swept through the land. At the sound of the bugle horn, the legendary beast-riders rushed forth simultaneously, as though their fighting spirits had aroused. The arachnid defensive circle once again pulled back substantially! Through the Nydus Worm, large amounts of zerglings and ultralisks poured out once again!
Yet this time, those rushing legendary beast-riders upon reaching the first line of battling, opted not to pursue and attack! Instead, they rein in their blades horizontally, awaiting in strict formation! Meanwhile, the arachnids had hastily shrunk back their defence line, thus the originally climatic battling had came to a spontaneous end. A gap had formed, as though a ceasefire region had abruptly surfaced.
Moreover, one could clearly observe; sheltered by the legendary beast-riders at their front, the other Mosake clansmen had started supporting their casualties, at the same time calling for their favourite adored tamed creatures to them.
Evidently, the Mosake clan was enlightened of this terrifying snare! A cruel snare devised by a crafty nemesis that had preordained the time and location, with the goal of thoroughly chiseling away the strength of the Mosake clan!
Therefore, the true aim for Chieftain Cherokee’s blowing his bugle horn, was seemingly to escort injured clansmen to retreat hurriedly at once!
Witnessing such a scene, every arachnid life form appeared to have paused briefly; like a human brandishing his fist before a fight, as they contracted while bracing their muscles and gathering strength. Progressing from there, they flooded in avariciously as though a dike had been breached!!!
If our enemies are thinking of retreating, then now is the best time to attack.
Yet at this instant, Chieftain Cherokee tossed aside the bugle horn in his hand, as his lips curved into a scarring smirk; abruptly revealing an contemptuous countenance as he gazed down.
Ijgtasaala rattata morobzzgu zusmozi!
(English: Damned rats, I’ve finally got you)
He suddenly raised his scepter!
The tip of his thick and crude scepter ignited ablaze, scorching the dried leather with flames in an instant! Following that, the flames suddenly blossomed into a blinding radiance! One could observe, over it was shockingly a naturally high purity pandora crystal the size of a goose egg!
Under Chieftain Cherokee’s frantic hastening, the pandora crystal on the scepter’s tip gradually dissolved while it dispersed out regiments of blood red mist; the mist wafting towards a Hammerhead-Titanothere that was tailing behind him.
The eyes of that gigantic beast immediately turned scarlet, as it buried its head and incessantly dug its front hooves into the ground. Its breathing became heavier as its physique swelled by 5-6 times, forcing its originally creasing and thick outer skin to inflate into the outline of bulging muscles.
Within a second, every Mosake clansmen obstructing the path of that Hammerhead-Titanothere divided a pathway in succession, like waves splitting apart. The Hammerhead-Titanothere’s tiny eyes winked as fast as shutter speed photography. Chieftain Cherokee then hurled his scepter towards the Hammerhead-Titanothere, as the beast lifted its head and widened its mouth; its throat squirming momentarily as it utterly swallowed the scepter.
Immediately, this monstrous gigantic beast begun trampling, steamrolling in at breakneck speed! Its tremendous body frame rocked, as it charged courageously and fearlessly while its vitality combusted away!!!
Following the divided up path of blood and gore!
Aligning straight towards the flooding arachnid sea before its very eyes!
Yet its eyes contained no regard for the arachnid sea. From the very first step it stomped out, both its eyes had already ruptured with a blunt ‘psshh’, as blood trickled down the corners; as though it was sorrowfully shedding blood tears. Only one final message was engraved within its heart – a message about a gateway, that strangely malevolent and alien gateway, the Nydus Worm!!
How fast was this Hammerhead-Titanothere’s speed, no one could fathom. Its body mass swayed and rocked with every trampling step, so much so that the sounds of splitting skin and muscles stretching could be heard. When it charged within 20 metres approaching the arachnid sea, it practically appeared like a high speed whistling steam train. In its bloodlusted frenzy, blood sprayed out as it speared forth with indomitable insanity!!
Mcdh’s vision hollowed drastically, while concurrently listening to Mogensha’s heavy breathing! It didn’t matter who, anyone who saw the rampaging charge of this fanatical inflated rocking beast, would inevitably feel like their hearts were compressed by a heavy boulder; welling up with an premonition that ‘approaching it meant death’!
Yet right at this moment, a cawing screech pierced out from the throats, or hearts, of the battling arachnids. Treating the gigantic beast like a giant magnet, they surged towards it berserkly!
To compete in terms of unwavering mentality, the ravenous arachnids had never lost to anyone in their entire lives!!!!
When the gigantic beast impacted into the arachnid sea, it upsurge huge torrents of gory flesh tides. Though Ultralisks were obstructing this Hammerhead-Titanothere as well, their outcome would without an exception be getting knocked down, and trampled over into mincemeat. However, arachnids poured in to replace fallen comrades one after another, pouncing in ludicrously.
Screeches repeatedly resounded in unison; when the Hammerhead-Titanothere had thrusted 50 metres into the arachnid sea, its speed had distinctly waned, allowing the dense mass of voracious arachnids to claw and nibble at its body. Even more terrifying was that the surrounding arachnid sea continued to congest together, as they pounced fanatically without any fear of death.
Although the gigantic beast’s dark violet scaled leather was extraordinarily tough, and its limbs as thick as a tree, the Ultralisk’s crescent bone-scythes were equally an acclaimed lethal weapon. Though initial lacerating tempo was relatively slow, once the leather skin was breached, the fresh reddened flesh were rapidly torn and devoured by the insatiable zerglings!
50 metres before reaching the Nydus Worm, the Hammerhead-Titanothere finally collapsed to the ground with a loud bang. Still, its body remained as inflated as before it began rampaging. Moreover, after it died, its swelling rate accelerated by several folds! Witnessing such an abnormal scene, Sheyan’s gaze flickered as he couldn’t help muttering.
Could it be, Chieftain Cherokee’s trump is……..
As his words just faded,
With that Hammerhead-Titanothere corpse as the core,
Unleashed an oppressive and thunderous detonation!
The destructive might of the explosion was beyond terrorizing. An 18 square metres pit had appeared in its wake. The scattered flesh in the vicinity had been evaporated to ashes, as hundreds of zergling and dozens of ultralisk caracasses nearby had been utterly incinerated. Furthermore, a radius of a kilometre had seemingly experienced a downpour of blood and gore!
Yet even more foreboding, were scattered flesh that were still combusting with flames!
Fortunately, seconds prior to the explosion, several ultralisks had blocked off the front of the Nydus Worm. Though that was so, the ultralisks still emitted incomparably anguished roars amidst the flames. Moreover, the left area of the Nydus Worm had probably been affected by the outburst of bones and flesh, frying off a massive bitter wound that was as long as 6 metres! Within the wound,the deathly pale supporting skeleton of the Nydus Worm was faintly discernible.
What was worst was the dull red flames still adhering to the wound, that even its gushing blood could not extinguish the flames. Flesh was being roasted as it released sizzling cackles.
A battlefield vacuum, an astounding battlefield vacuum had appeared within the legions of arachnids!
Meanwhile at this instance, Chieftain Cherokee heaved up his bugle horn with a contented smirk on his face, and blew on it with great might!
HUM~HUM~HUM!
Under the urgent humming, the legendary beast-riders formed the primary arrowhead, with the remaining Mosake clansmen following behind; forming into a typical ‘Spearing Arrow Assault’ formation. Thousands of kilograms rumbling with thunderous momentum, as they targeted straight for the Nydus Worm and stampeded towards it!!!!
TN: Did you guys catch the pokemon? 😛
Chapter 444: Broken! Defeated!
Chieftain Cherokee had clearly identified the weakness being that strange, malevolent looking massive gateway; realizing that the reinforcements it could supply was limited, and every spatial transportation required a definite interval. This was because the Blackthorn Overmind had purposefully suppressed the effects when incubating out the Nydus Worm, less the Blade Empress would notice irregular ripples in space!
Within Cherokee’s schemes, he sacrificed the life of a legendary beast without hesitation, and eradicated an entire 7-8 stacks of the opponent’s forces! Thus at present, there was nothing to worry about as the opponent’s forces had just suffered immense casualties. Moreover, when his warriors successfully speared to the front of the Nydus Worm, it could at most regurgitate 2 more waves of limited reinforcements.
Such limited reinforcements was absolutely insufficient to obstruct the full blow of Cherokee’s warriors. Thus, to him, he had 100 percent confidence in destroying that gigantic gateway that could supply reinforcements. Following that, success will naturally follow when the conditions are right, and leveling this place would be a matter of seconds.
Yet at this moment, Sheyan who was spectating from far, issued an odd hand gesture!
He raised his left arm highly, and held up his forefingers as he signalled with incessant shaking.
Following his queer action, a weird shadow abruptly propelled out from the forest nearby the arachnid base. This figure was perhaps foreign to the Mosake Clansmen, but to Sheyan or Mogensha, it was extremely familiar……none other than an elite Queen-zerg.
It soared with lightning impetus towards the front of the Mosake clan.
For some unknown reason, when Chieftain Cherokee noticed this creature, his heart suddenly palpitated with an unfathomable danger, as he urgently bellowed.
Shoot it down!
As Chieftain Cherokee’s roar faded away, the foremost legendary beast-rider of the charge slapped heavily against the neck of his mount. His mount resembled an amplified version of the monitor lizards of earth, with its split red tongue dangling out as it ran. 3 large black thorns spiked out from its neck, looking glimmering and sharp.
When its master slapped its neck, this Greater-lizard emitted a ‘human belching’ sound; and within a second, one of its long neck thorn shot out, whistling like a thunderbolt and accurately piercing the elite Queen-zerg. In that instant, the Queen-zerg inflated like a balloon and popped into a blood-filled sky.
Only right before the thorn pierced it, murky fluorescent green had already been circulating along the body of the Queen-zerg; before it swiftly congealed at her two feelers, and jetted out like a fluorescent green mucus.
The long thorn then brushed past the green mucus.
The Mosake clan obviously understood, the incoming green mucus was no doubt not a harmless object. However, they had configured into this spearing formation, and leaving the formation now was definitely an impossibility. Hence, the few clansmen at the tip shut their eyes tightly and clenched their teeth, awaiting for the assailing stench and agony of corrosive acid! Yet that pain would be converted into fighting spirit, igniting their frenzy as they vented their agony onto their obstructing foes!
Except seconds after the regiment of green mucus soared through the air, it divided from 1 to 2, 2 to 4, 4 to 8……..with distinct green mucus threads interlinking the fission gaps. When the spearing tip of the Mosake clan formation arrived, it had already shockingly metamorphosed into an expansive spider-web of fluorescent murky green! Very straightforwardly encompassing over them.
Ensnare!!
(TN: note I’ve changed the queen-zerg’s ability from ‘capture’ to ‘ensnare’, which is the correct term in starcraft.)
Indeed, it was the Queen-zerg’s ‘Ensnare’ ability!
Though 3 legendary beast-riders were exempted from the massive AOE speed decline effect, one couldn’t discount the fact that the majority of those 10 plus legendary beast-riders storming the front were affected.
Drenched in murky green mucus, they evidently became more clumsy with every movement seemingly constricted by elastic ropes; mobility became arduously challenging, as their speeds abruptly fell by 50%!
Hence, an ordinary affair of tailgating occurred. Though it wasn’t fatal like chain high speed traffic accidents, but a completely pitiful mess was unavoidable with such a speed decline. In time, a full-blown traffic jam happened.
Thus!
A deviation had surfaced from Chieftain Cherokee’s previous calculations,
A fatal deviation!
He was anticipating at most 2 waves of reinforcements streaming out from the Nydus Worm before reaching it. However, in lieu of such a sudden twist of event, the Nydus Worm was able to supply out 4 waves of reinforcements!!
Moreover, this incident had probably forced the Blackthorn Overmind to panic! The first wave of arachnids dispatched itself was fully 15 monotonous Ultralisks, in addition to……two Defilers!!!
The Ultralisks roared furiously as it charged straight on fanatically, directly colliding into the incoming legendary beasts completely unafraid of death. Their impressive body frames solely existed for this purpose!!
In a flash, the ‘Dark Swarm’ that could totally suppress all long range attacks enshrouded over the Nydus Worm.
In the next second, the signature ‘Bloodied Clouds and Mists’ ability of the Defiler splashed against the foremost legendary beast-rider’s body. In an instant, his body and the air around him was directly dyed in red.
After a series of frantic and ferocious collisions, the imminent crisis of the arachnids was once again averted! Once again, the momentum swung back to this unrivalled pack of battle instruments. Moreover right at this moment, the Blackthorn Overmind shedded all notions of disguise as the Nydus Worm accelerated into full swing; incessantly churning out an unending stream of arachnids into the battlefield. Even more terrifying, was the increased speed of breeding newer arachnid units! Yes, the Blackthorn Overmind had switched to solely breeding out monotonous packs of zerglings. Such lowest-tier arachnid units would undoubtedly yield the most horrifying results when pursuing enemies.
A prolonged and melancholic hum of a bugle horn echoed rapidly through the battlefield.
In this instance, the wrinkles on Chieftain Cherokee’s face seemed to deepened a little, and his gaze darkened while carrying a trace of pain! Under his command, the hundreds of Mosake clansmen arranged themselves into a row, as they controlled their wild beasts to form into a makeshift defence line. One one hand, they prepared to receive the returning legendary beast-riders; while on the other, they engaged in breaking out from the rear.
A task of inevitable death.
Offering one’s death in exchange for the survival of more clansmen!
Nevertheless, not every individual was willing to meet death with courage and nobility, but every time such an individual surfaced, Chieftain Cherokee would snarl thunderously and point towards the old/sickly/spouse/child of those fleeing deserters; before maliciously waving a wooden spear he pulled out from an unknown place, obviously utilizing the deserter’s kins to coerce them.
Sheyan appeared rather hesitant as he observed the suspended skull necklaces slung across the necks of the Mosake clansmen. His brows creased continuously, as the words seemed to be trapped in his mouth. Instead at this time, the bystander Mogensha sucked in a deep breath of air and implored.
Hey! Old pal Blackthorn, are you able to control your subordinate arachnids not to chew those barbaric aboriginals to death, but just nibble their legs?
The Blackthorn Overmind very bluntly replied.
《 I am, but doing so will raise the fatality rate of my troops by 17.3% 》
Mogensha spat out the gum he was chewing as he earnestly urged.
But I dare to bet you that this will fking cause the enemy’s at least a 30% increase in casualties.
The Blackthorn Overmind suspiciously doubted.
《 Really? 》
Sheyan smiled bitterly as well.
It’s true. Not every living organism can be as icy-cold as you during war, completely immersed in rationality. Damned, I would truly feel a mental barrier if you ask me to lay hands on little children and pregnant women. I’m afraid, even na’vi folks are no exception.
Brother black paused briefly in silence, lighting up a cigar before he spoke.
Years back in Mogadishu, ethnic massacres were commonly seen……the blood of women and children would dye the rivers red. I am a fortunate surviving orphan from those ethnic massacres.
Speaking till here, Brother Black tilted his head as a profoundly deep scar was revealed on his neck. The reddened scar was like a surprise centipede that had leeched onto his neck, seemingly about to carve into his artery; if it did, he would undoubtedly perish. Mogensha then revealed his pearly white teeth and chuckled.
This is my birthday gift presented by those fking racist bastards when I was only five. Hence, whenever I touch this scar, it’ll always remind me to harden my heart against enemies; especially those can threaten my life.
Sheyan sighed as he patted Brother Black’s shoulders without uttering a word.
Thus, with such brief efforts, the current scene of the battle had evolved into a crumbling and withdrawing Mosake clan, with the arachnids hot on their heels!
Meanwhile, Sheyan’s final trump card finally showed itself! He had secretly burrowed roughly a hundred zerglings along the journey from the Windstone Highland and this Triangle Shoals. These zerglings were burrowed stealthily in groups of 5-6, utterly insufficient against the Mosake clan under normal circumstances.
Yet right now, the Mosake clansmen were weary and crumbling in retreat, being pursued from behind. Suddenly, these vile creatures drilled out from the ground and displayed their usefulness. They were only required to hinder the mounts of their foes for roughly 10 seconds, to allow their crazily pursuing arachnids to wage war once again.
Apart from that, Mogensha’s raised tactic to cripple their legs instead of taking their lives revealed its vast effectiveness. It was already mentioned before, that Chieftain Cherokee had mobilized his entire clan!
This indicated that those Mosake clansmen that were clearly on the brink of escape would frequently hear the cries and wails from behind. Scenarios of heroic rescues of their old, sickly, and crippled kins played out, with the conclusion of themselves being captured! More noteworthily, such scenarios included an entirety of 8 legendary beast-riders!!!!!
Chapter 445: ‘Handling’ the elderly, the sickly, women and children
Though these legendary beast-riders’ abilities were formidable, amidst the boundless sea of crazed arachnids, what awaited them…….was without an exception, exhausting their strength till they finally succumbed to death.
Regrettably, with the Blackthorn Overmind prevailing, Sheyan and the rest could not hope to earn any benefits. Oh, wrong, one cannot put it that way. At least, those 23 hearts required for the sacrificial ceremony, minus the beating one still inside Chieftain Cherokee’s chest, had all been assembled.
While Sheyan and buddies were plotting how to follow up from their victory, Blackthorn Overmind transmitted an unfortunate news – Mother Nature Eywa had contacted him, and issued an ultimatum. She believed the Blackthorn tribe’s war conduct was understandable in terms of safeguarding their base, but since they’ve already succeeded in doing so, the regulations cannot be violated any longer.
This signified that if the Blackthorn tribe didn’t wish for war to erupt between themselves and Mother Nature Eywa again, they could only pull back those Ultralisks and Defilers to their own base, and decommission them. Thus, it implied that Sheyan’s plausible mobilizing fleet had returned to its earlier state – limited to 800 – 900 headcount, which totalled to 1,600 – 1,800 zerglings; coupled with a minute few rare elites.
For an army of such scale…..truthfully speaking, attempting to defeat the Mosake clan with an outburst of vigor was still beyond their reach. Besides, the zerglings were really too weak, and to confront the large-scale killing capabilities of their enemy back in their home ground, death would not come any faster. Minimally, the army must comprise of normal Ultralisks that could absorb the majority of incoming damages.
In his current situation, though Sheyan had already anticipated this, he still sighed humbly and halted any form of pursuit. Still, this single campaign had already attained his primary objective. The entire fighting force of the Mosake clan had been weakened by 6-7 folds, and their food storage had been utterly wasted.
Apart from that, amongst the core strongholds of the clan, only 4 remained from those 13 legendary beast-riders. Moreover, each sustained injuries. Minusing the slain, captives, or missing Mosake clansmen, their manpower had declined by close to a third! If one were to strictly analyze further, even their various tamed creatures had a mortality rate of half!
Watching the fleeing figures of the Mosake clan, Sheyan turned back and gazed towards the powerful Growth-hunter, Mcdh. He exposed a cheeky expression as he teased.
Our 3 hours duration is nearly over.
Mcdh’s expression was relatively dismal. He sighed as he shook his head faintly.
I get it. To you guys, my strength is indeed dispensable.
Concurrently, Brother Black made eye contact with Sheyan, as he whistled and laughed heartily before slapping Mcdh’s back.
So, I wish that our upcoming collaboration will be a slightly more pleasant one.
Mcdh was stunned.
What did you say? Collaboration?
He immediately retracted his gaze and suspiciously doubted.
You guys still intend to collaborate with me? But……
Sheyan chuckled and spoke with profound interpretation.
We wouldn’t mind helping while we are at it, but the premise is the receiver of this help should owe us a favour. As for whether he chooses to repay this favour, that will be another matter.
Mcdh breathed in deeply as he earnestly replied.
Alright, then I’ll owe you guys this favour! As long as I remain alive, I’ll definitely repay this debt.
Brother Black abruptly interrupted.
I’ve heard before, a requisite resurrecting sequence for a ‘Fairy’s Praise’ seed, is hunting down powerful creatures to acquire their soul as resurrection essence. Could it be, you’ve already accomplished that step?
Mcdh nodded and answered.
That’s correct. It sounds rather simple but I’ve already wandered through several worlds. Though I’ve acquired souls from the creatures I’ve hunted, they aren’t compatible with the seed in my hand. Furthermore, back when I was about to hunt down a legendary female Hexapede that they’d tamed, my carelessness allowed Hammerhead-Titanothere rider Authe to lock onto to me. In the end, I failed and got caught.
Sheyan nodded and replied.
I understand. Looks like we wouldn’t have to specially craft out a plan for you. Our current goal of debilitating the Mosake clan is unanimous with yours. Oh right, have you tried harvesting any soul from those powerful creatures that had been ravaged by the zerglings?
Mcdh smiled bleakly in response.
I haven’t, because the carcasses of those legendary beast had all been dissolved into the ‘Creep’ carpet, either that or devoured directly by those zerglings. I didn’t even have a chance.
At this moment, a frowning Reef strolled over and reported to Sheyan.
We currently have 131 Mosake clan captives, but i can predict that this figure will raise to estimatedly 180 after half an hour. The majority of them are women, elderly and kids. What should we do with them?
Those Mosake clan members had mostly sustained grave wounds to their legs, and were incapable of escape. Their sole existential purpose previously was to hinder their fleeing comrades, implicating them as they recklessly returned to rescue. Having fallen into Sheyan’s hands at present, they were like sweet potatoes that were scalding to touch.
Megensha hesitated briefly before suggesting.
Perhaps we could release them back? Those people will end up as heavy burdens for Cherokee.
Mcdh urgently refuted.
Don’t! You guys are belittling Cherokee too much. You mustn’t neglect the possibility of speed recovery methods in the Mosake clan. And if forced to the last resort, Cherokee will definitely order to cannibalize the heavily wounded as food! A rashful release would only bolster their strength!
After listening, Reef smashed his fist into a nearby tree, as he raged.
That scum! Wouldn’t he be afraid of his own clan rebelling as a result?
Mcdh calmly replied.
According to the knowledge i acquired earlier, the Mosake clansmen are very likely to place all accountable debts on our heads.
Reef fumed out.
What kind of dogshit logic is that?
Mcdh answered.
The logic of the na’vi race!
Then, Brother Black grumbled.
Is our only option to feed them to the bugs? Dammit, I’m guessing that brat Blackthorn will be elated to hear about such great news.
Sheyan swept his gaze towards a frightened Mosake kid, an idea then directly firmed up in his heart. Everyone should have their own bottom line, though Sheyan could execute all means necessary against his foes, that should at least not include children. Even for kids of a different species, they were still innocent.
Upon thinking of the term ‘different species’, Sheyan’s eyes suddenly flickered. He momentarily realized he had discovered an optimal method, one that could perfectly handle this ‘scalding sweet potato’ problem. If he executed this well, then maybe, he could even rake in numerous benefits.
At present, the wild aerial creatures of this region had mostly perished previously in the beast tide. Hence, Sheyan blatantly dispatched and stationed large groups of overlords around the periphery of the Windstone Highland, closely monitoring the Mosake clan’s activities.
(TN: refers to the war between Eywa and the Blackthorn)
Putting it bluntly, he was clearly bullying the Mosake clan’s lack of aerial jurisdiction. These hovering jellyfish were the perfect sentinels, and could even perceive traces of invisible creatures as well.
Sheyan currently possessed the authority to mobilize roughly 1,600 – 1,800 zerglings; congregating them together to directly swarm forward in resistance should any Mosake clansmen dare to charge out of their nest.
Whatever the case, a death truly meant a reduction in forces for the Mosake clan. Instead with the Blackthorn tribe’s reproductive capabilities, even if all their zerglings were annihilated, they would at most require 3 hours to replenish them. Despite that, when the zerglings raided the Mosake clan’s nest, it only resulted in an awkward scenario due to the constraints of the Mosake clan’s complicated homeground base; a scenario of ‘one guarding the narrow pass preventing ten thousand from passing’ would occur.
Thrown into such a scenario, even Sheyan alone could personally slay hundreds of zerglings; what more the Mosake clansmen whose prowess far exceeded his? What more hundreds of them? Hence, battles should only be engaged over broad plains, where 1,800 zerglings could rummage in from the 4 corners and 8 directions; exhibiting their overwhelming strength in numbers! Only in such a setting, staking all in would be extremely worth it!
Still, even if the dispatched arachnids were totally annihilated, Sheyan could still exploit the Mosake clan’s absence of aerial jurisdiction, with squads of overlords tracking their every move. Moreover, at intervals of several hours, he would command 1,500 zerglings to board the overlords and initiate sneak assaults. Under such a state, 2-3 days would be all it takes to grind the Mosake clan to death. Ultimately, they would fall to the unceasing bouts of frenzied raids!
More importantly……how would Cherokee, who had just suffered harshly to the Blackthorn tribe, be aware that Sheyan could only employ 1,800 zerglings against him? Hence, he could only deem such reckless assaults as a trap, and impulsively charging out would be a minute probability occurrence.
After arranging all necessities, Sheyan whispered several words into Mogensha’s ears. All of a sudden, Brother Black’s face revealed an enlightened countenance as he laughed loudly.
Woah oh, boss. I really have to give it to you, to even think of a such an idea! Great, leave this matter to me. You guys can head off first, I’ll follow soon after.
Sheyan nodded as he brought along the confused Reef along with Mcdh, and boarded an overlord. As Reef observed their flight direction, he asked curiously.
Where are we headed to?
Chapter 446: Glad tidings for the Takji clan
Towards Reef’s inquiry, Sheyan chortled and replied.
To conduct a transaction. Relax, I too am a man of principle.
Reef silently nodded and continued.
I trust you.
Observing the flight direction of the overlord, it became astonishingly clear their destination was the Takji clan.
Between 2-3 kilometres from the Takji clan’s Hometree, Sheyan hopped off the overlord. Apart from the ex-patriarch’s mighty Mountain Banshee, their archery capabilities weren’t weak as well. To impulsively approach inside an overlord may trigger an unnecessary air crash.
When they entered a kilometre proximity of the Hometree, several Takji clan members noticed them; however, upon identifying Sheyan, they immediately spurred their direhorses and shamelessly fled afar. This happened until Sheyan arrived in front of their Hometree, greeted by the scene of the Takji clan’s current patriarch, Murru, and their Tsahir, Mourbo. Both stood at the entrance with crestfallen expression, filled with utter disgrace.
My brother, please forgive my cowardice in battle. We only chose to retreat after receiving admonishing from the Divine Eywa’s oracle. It is absolutely not because of danger!!
Murru stretched out both arms as he persuaded with great anguish. His face was distorted with haggardness and wilt, and both his eyes were bloodshot; indicating his sincere honestly. Sheyan released a long sigh and replied.
Alright, my friend, I can understand your feelings and I respect your faith. We are after all, brothers; this matter……just treat it as it had never happened before.
Murru shook his head in heartache, as tears streamed down his eyes.
I’m no longer fit to be your brother, I’m a coward who runs from battles.
Murru drew out his bone saber smoothly and offered the saber’s shaft to Sheyan.
Please end this life of humiliation. This way, I can then be at ease.
Shedding crocodile tears by the side, Tsahir Mourbo suddenly turned flustered as he hurriedly hugged his child.
Ah! My child, don’t do this. It was I who had forced you to retreat, this blame should be placed on me!
Sheyan watched on with cold detachment, he obviously could see through the hypocritical show of affection within the deepest bones of Tsahir Mourbo. Instead, it was that brat Murru who was truly genuine. Presently, Sheyan didn’t wish to waste any time and straightforwardly sheathed Mourbo’s bone-saber back into its scabbard. Then, he stepped before Murru and interrupted.
Since I’ve already said this matter had never happened, then this matter concludes here. Do you want to turn me into someone who renegades on his words? However, Murru, my return this time is earnestly to ask you something.
Upon hearing that, Murru immediately turned eager and asked.
What is it?
At this moment, Brother Black’s face abruptly revealed a peculiar expression; a licentious look of unspeakable wretchedness, analogous to how Edison Chen would lead an innocent model into a brothel. He licked his thick lips and answered for Sheyan.
(TN: Mogensha probably caught up to them already. Also, Edison Chen is an actor in Hong Kong who is also known for scandals with other actresses)
I seem to recall you mentioning before, lasses from the Mosake clan aren’t bad eh?
Murru was stupefied as he glanced nervously at his old dad before replying.
Did I say…. I really said that?
Borther Black instantly knew Murru was trying to hide this embarrassing deed, and also noticed the gloomy look on that old fart Mourbo, as though a family disciplinary session was round the corner. Soon, several others also faced away to the sky to mask their giggles.
Nevertheless, this topic Mogensha raised triggered a commotion from all the males who shared the same opinion. The Takji clan had all along not been strict with their internal hierarchy; hence, several eavesdropping Takji warriors started butting into the conversation, similarly attempting to liven up the mood.
Yeah man, yeah man!
Although the corrupted Mosake clan had lost favour from Goddess Nature, on the contrary, their women had become exceedingly alluring!
Rumours has it, it is because of their corrupted sacrificial temples they built.
Indeed, they are far more pleasing to the eyes than our worn-out women.
Those voluptuous chests that looks amazing to touch.
Those round buttocks.
………
………
While Sheyan listened to their mindless chatter, more or less pertaining to the ampleness of Mosake chicks, he carefully realized a subtle relationship between this and Mother Nature Eywa! Naturally, corrupted clans were free from abstinence, and could hunt and feast on any creature they liked. Thus, such flourishing carnivorous diet would obviously yield greater abundance in females; naturally, the product of plentiful nourishment.
Yet the current Sheyan couldn’t care less to carry on bullshitting with them. Despite the fuming countenance of old Mourbo, Sheyan blatantly pulled the incomparably awkward Murru to one side and whispered.
Looks like your clan’s males uphold the same standards as you, eh.
Murru replied bashfully.
This is only normal alright. If not, why would the most beautiful ladies garner the most pursuers?
Having probed a clearer understanding of them, Sheyan coughed and offered earnestly.
Actually this time, I wish to make a transaction with you.
Murru refuted with shame.
Whatever you’ve set your eyes on, just take them. Why the need for a transaction.
Instead, Sheyan thought in his heart; despite your forthrightness on this issue, what I want is regrettably, indeed something I can’t even set eyes on; I reckon this matter resides in the hands of that wily old fox, Mourbo. Therefore, he directly continued.
I’ve just campaigned against the Mosake clan, managing to capture loads of their women and children. If the Takji clan is willing to fork out an adequate sum, then I can consider selling them to you guys. If not, they’ll have to be sacrificed to my ally.
Murru exclaimed in suspicion.
My friend, deceitfulness corrodes from the inside.
Sheyan rolled his eyes nonchalantly.
Ah, but I haven’t spewed any lies…….forget it, forget it. Just convey my message to your father, I’ll negotiate with him.
Murru then relayed his message. After a brief while, that old head Mourbo strolled over and scanned Sheyan with a doubtful gaze.
This may be impolite of me, but I still have to express my disbelief……..years after years had gone by without the Mosake clan even losing more than a dozen clan member. I don’t believe you could’ve accomplished such a feat after incurring the wrath of Goddess Nature Eywa.
Sheyan unfolded his hands and answered bluntly.
Fine, Tashir Mourbo, you really should applaud your own eloquence; because your words have succeeded in extinguishing my desire to offer friendly rates. Now, give me some time.
15 minutes later. In the end, a youth dashed hastily towards his Hometree on his direhorse. His face flushed with red and his body was trembling in excitement as he disregarded all formalities…….
P…Pa…Patriarch, Tashir! M..ma…many women and kids from the Mosake clan!!!!!
What would this youth be excited over……the only explanation should be that Na’vi kids matured earlier. Eh, this hypothesis is truly obnoxious.
Clearly, Sheyan had previously tasked Mogensha to ‘escort’ those Mosake captives alongside 200 zerglings. The reason for tasking Mogensha with this was naturally his ability as a long range combatant. Once someone attempts to flee, a shuttle of bullets would easily bring the situation under control.
Furthermore, the forte of the Mosake clan only laid in two aspects. One was their ability to tame beasts, and the second was in long range combat. With their legs gravely wounded currently, every Mosake captive was assigned with one zergling and compelled to board the overlords. With virtually zero threat, transporting them wasn’t a slow process at all. It was only trying to get them to board the overlords that wasted some time.
In spite of their disbelief, Murru and Mourbo were utterly convinced by the facts before their very eyes…….in particular, that stirred up old fart, Mourbo. Don’t let your thoughts run wild, that old thing no longer held interest for females; instead, due to the Takji clan’s recent tragedy, a shortfall in important prime seedlings had arose. Waiting for nature’s replenishment was akin to waiting for 20 years before their clan could develop back to former glories.
Instead, if the clan could acquire these batch of women and kids, the kids would reach adolescence in roughly 3 years; which was more or less half a matured adult. With another 5-10 years, they would morph into brave warriors. This implied the recovery duration of the clan would be shortened by more than half!
As for loyalty wise, Sheyan guessed that such a crucial problem could very well be negligible. This was due to the current primitive era of the Na’vi race, resembling that of the stone age. In term of various social customs, it would be similar to ancient tribes of the grasslands!
For example, the emergence era of Temujin. His wife had been seized by an enemy tribe, which later escalated into an exceedingly violent and perverse affair. When Genghis Khan had snatched his wife back, she was already pregnant and gave birth smoothly to the infant. Ghengis Khan then treated him like his own, caring fervently and sincerely for him. That little child would grow up to be known as Ögedei Khan. Thus, Na’vi customs can be somewhat derived from this.
(TN: Temujin is the birth name of Genghis Khan.)
Moreover, once these Mosake captives are transferred to the Takji clan, they could only choose death or pledge allegiance. Pledging allegiance meant that they had to take an oath before Divine Nature Eywa, and swear absolute loyalty to the clan. Besides, this was planet Pandora! The greatest critical difference from earth was that Divine Eywa was explicitly known! Thus, only a tiny handful would dare to betray their oaths!
A chance to establish our clan’s dominance, and perhaps even attain secrets of Mosake beast taming. Sufficient women and seedlings……..
Even the wily old fox, Mourbo, couldn’t help but shiver with excitement, as he muttered inaudibly to himself.
Chapter 447: Severe bleeding
However, Sheyan was presently well informed of the value of this batch of ‘goods’ on hand. Mourbo’s greedy gaze and aroused reaction had gravely sold himself out. Identifying he had rare ‘commodities’ worth hoarding, Sheyan flatly changed his expression as he glanced at Mogensha and proclaimed.
Let’s go! Let’s pay a visit to the more hospitable Prince Tsu’tey! At least, the amicable Omaticaya clan would treat their friends with more sincerity.
Old Mourbo’s pupils instantly bulged as he hastily called out.
My friends, my esteemed friends, please wait a moment!! I express my sincere apology for my suspicious conduct previously.
Sheyan then offered a ‘snapping’ gesture, before Jinkuang leapt out from behind him and issued arrogantly.
Woah! An apology! Ah, such sincerity indeed. My honorable Mr Mourbo, I too wish to express my most earnest apology; because we have to leave immediately. At least, the Omaticaya clan would treat us with more earnesty and camaraderie.
At present, the wrinkles on old Mourbo’s face had deepened gravely, displaying his amplified distress. He understood that if he still refused to ‘show blood effort’, then such a grand opportunity would slip away from his fingertips.
Gritting his teeth, he fished out an animal hide pouch from his bosom, and reluctantly poured its contents out. The contents were 3 precious gems, that shimmered with a warm brilliance. Then he bent his waist, and offered them to Jinkuang with both hands.
To compensate for my earlier discourse, this is just a tiny little gift.
These were rather familiar objects, and were indeed the naturally high purity pandora crystals; dazzling with luminous brilliance like precious gems. Sheyan and the rest had also discovered that when the Mosake clansmen wanted to execute a certain powerful and unique ability, they would occasionally borrow the assistance from these gorgeous casting material.
When Sheyan interacted with those crystals, he instantly received the notification.
[ You received a special object of the Pandora World: Soul crystal. ]
[ This is a natural high purity crystal that has absorbed the natural energies of this world, being imbued with the tremendous force of earth, water, fire and wind! ]
[ Its value is exceptionally high, and its usage application diverse. Under normal circumstances, erudite mages can perfectly study these mystical gems with their expansive experiences and magic books. ]
Observing the list of notification, Sheyan’s countenance finally soothened a little. Following his usual practice, he tossed a block to Jinkuang as reward and stored the rest.
Hmm, alright. Respected old fox Mourbo, oh my bad, old Sir. You’ve finally expressed sincerity that was long overdue. I’ve just finished a series of intensive battling, and am extremely exhausted. Hence, you can continue further detailed negotiations on the remaining issues with my agent, Mr David Beckham. I confer all authority to him.
Old Mourbo’s complexion immediately turned pale…….causing a blue-skined na’vi to have such a complexion was indeed not an easy feat. Brother Black flashed a pitiful glance at the old man, before looking over to the nominal Patriarch, Murru, of the Takji clan. The latter had already congregated with his fellow like-minded peers with fervent and passionate expressions, not having a shred of concern towards matters here.
As for what that congregation was discussing, one just needed to guess what a bunch of vigorous and thirsty males would talk about when peeping at ravishing female slaves they could handpick from.
Ignorant arm-flinging shopkeepers are indeed the most blissful of individuals.
Brother Black couldn’t help but sigh.
(TN: idiom, means individuals who asks others to do work but does nothing himself)
After Jinkuang’s saliva had splashed against old Mourbo’s face for the fourth time, the curtains finally drew on the bilateral negotiations of both parties. Old Mourbo had seemingly aged by 10 years, and his present walking posture was as though he had constipation and diarrhea for 10 days. The following were the advantages acquired from trading those captives:
[ 1 tier-6 Great Banshee rider……] (The poor Mourbo had even sold himself. During the remaining period, he would act as Sheyan’s temporary servant and was attached to Jinkuang, with Jinkuang having jurisdiction over him. Of course, he would automatically regain his freedom after Sheyan left this world)
(TN: Hybrid between Great Leonopteryx and Mountain Banshee)
[ 2 ‘Soul Crystals’ ]
[ 20 of the mightiest Takji clan archers. ]
[ Na`vi secret medicine – using it will instantly restore 50% HP. If damage is dealt by Pandora creatures, its healing property would receive an additional 25% (Meaning restoring 75% HP). Cooldown of 8 hours. ]
Amongst everything, the most valuable would be that ‘Na’vi secret medicine’, which was a pleasant surprise harvest to Sheyan. Though this bottled medicine had an 8 hours cooldown, it was an independent entity and didn’t share cooldown periods with other medicines.
Going deeper into specifics, when facing a formidable opponent; after Sheyan consumes an ‘Honorary medicine dosage’ and restores his HP to full, if he encounters another crisis, he would still be able to consume this ‘Na`vi secret medicine’ to restore 50% HP, or even 75% based on the situation. If he factored in his party skill ‘Gloryheal’, that was equivalent to another bonus life! Such immense significance was simply unimaginable.
Naturally, a day of crazed celebrations for the Takji clan followed this, the group of men started dividing the women. Every clansmen harbored zero concern towards Old Mourbo’s pact of selling out his country. Even Murru himself accepted the pact. To him who had fled the battle and abandoned his benefactor, this matter had already plagued his heart for a long time and felt he owed Sheyan far too much. Therefore, even if Sheyan desired loads of riches from the Takji clan, it was still reasonable.
Watching the young clan fledglings having such a mentality, the old foxes of the Takji clan could only sigh piteously; sorrowful that there were no qualified successors, and lamenting over the shallow foresight of their young ones. However, their sighs were soon drowned out by a baffling grand sound – the intertwined sounds of Mosake clan captives weeping, and the energetic cheers of young Takji clansmen with raging hormones; such a sound was extremely weird and exotic.
Yet out of their expectations, when served with two choices of life or death, the majority of captives decided to adhere to new traditions and chose life.
Every single Mosake captive harboured deep hatred towards Sheyan and the other outsiders, and resolved to never reach a compromise with them. Instead, they belonged to the same species as the Takji clan, and compromising wouldn’t be so tough to accept. One by one, they were selected and questioned on their decisions. Most of the captives were famished and exhausted, choosing painfully to yield and enlist into a new clan; while only a handful abided by unwavering loyalty.
Although in the end, 7 female and 3 heavily wounded males were executed, that was simply unavoidable. Fortunately, to Sheyan and Reef’s relief, all the children were spared and swore oaths before Mother Nature Eywa – from henceforth, they would be part of the Takji clan and have no relations whatsoever with the Mosake clan. They would then be inculcated with certain elementary ideologies, to correct their cannibalism vices.
As time trickled away, Sheyan’s masterminded besiege on the Mosake clan had already reached its fourth day.
During the past four days, not a single Mosake clan warrior left their building premises. Hence, the unrivalled sniper, Growth-hunter Mcdh, had no chance to display his talents.
According to their earlier intelligence and deductions, the Mosake clan should have completely depleted their water supply by now, and their food supplies reaching a critical state. However, as for today, their combat prowess would not be substantially restricted due to hunger or thirst. Until they exceeded a critical point, the combat prowess of the clan would then plunge with shocking severity.
Therefore, it could be said that Sheyan was strictly awaiting in formation today. Instead, the battle he was anticipating did not arrive. At this moment, Sheyan discourteously summoned Old Mourbo. Although the Takji clan’s total might was vastly inferior to the Mosake clan, Old Mourbo was still a genuine talent; compared to those 13 legendary beast-riders beside Chieftain Cherokee previously, he was not the least bit inferior and could even occupy a frontal position. Besides, there was no need to elaborate on the advantages of aerial superiority.
Yet after 3 minutes, a greatly terrified Old Mourbo returned while gasping for breath and wiping his non-existent perspiration.
Their defenses are completely air-tight, I couldn’t see a single thing.
Hearing his report, Sheyan furrowed his brows, and his expression turned gloomy. Old Mourbo belonged to a category that would induce headaches in people. He was astute, crafty, treacherous and possessed a daunting might. Although he had been forced to a state of servitude, a negative conduct of slacking was still unavoidable. Only during the days prior to this, Sheyan would still display courtesy to him. Yet with the deadline of returning approaching, Sheyan’s patience had been utterly whittled away.
He issued a dull glare at Old Mourbo and questioned.
If you can truly ascertain the stringent defenses from afar, isn’t your eyesight too excessively powerful.
Old Mourbo was feeling indignant in his heart; this one is a dignified and revered Tsahik, and you use me as a scout? Still, he replied with an indifferent tone.
Ah yes, that is what my clansmen praised me for.
This ex clan patriarch surveyed the outsider before him with his heart. Considering in his heart that he could easily slaughter him, and this outsider was a fool to trust others; but also considering that he had in fact, reaped a whole load of benefits from him thus far. More crucially, Old Mourbo had no inkling why he disliked this outsider, and loathed him exceedingly; this human actually attempts in vain to suppress me! Therefore, naturally he was unwilling work hard for this outsider.
Thinking till here, Old Mourbo even purposefully coughed loudly before spitting his thick phlegm before Sheyan’s foot.
Chapter 448: A slut can naturally pester vilely
He didn’t stop there. After spitting, that old na’vi still glanced at Sheyan with a gratified expression; What can you do to me? Chase me away?! This brother wouldn’t wish for anything else.
Facing Old Mourbo’s provocation, Sheyan peacefully replied.
Since that’s the case, I have nothing else left to say.
After speaking, he proceeded to toss everything in front of old Mourbo; the pandora ‘Soul crystals’ he acquired from him, the ‘Na’vi secret medicine’ and various other goods. It was like throwing away a huge pile of garbage. Old Mourbo was pleased beyond expectations as he witnessed these precious treasures being carelessly dumped before him. Still he ached for these treasures treated like garbage, and until he finally stored everything, he sneered mockingly.
It is wonderful that you don’t want it.
Yet at this moment, Sheyan had already retreated into his legion of zerglings, and ordered the vast mass of zerglings to charge towards the east. Old Mourbo was perplexed by this, but a sudden unfathomable fear had sprung up within him. He was suddenly enlightened about something, and hurriedly shouted over.
Oi! The Mosake clan is clearly at the west, why are you heading towards the east?
By this time, Brother Black who was standing guard by his side smirked in response.
Heading to demand repayment.
Old Mourbo replied in astoundment.
What repayment?
Brother black produced a toothpick as he lazily scraped against the gaps between his tooth.
Didn’t boss return everything you gave to him?
Old Mourbo suddenly felt like those gems in his bosom had become like scorching charcoals; as though his skin had been burnt as he nodded while feeling numb.
Brother Black then unfolded his hands and bluntly declared.
Then that is settled. Since we’ve terminated our agreement, boss obviously needs to reclaim the investment he had made in the Takji clan. Of course, this doesn’t only include those Mosake clan captives you know.
Right!
Completely from nowhere, Jinkuang suddenly hopped out from behind Mogensha. Within his hand was a shabby old fashioned calculator, as his fingers rattled nimbly against its buttons.
A total of 179 captives, 84 tons of beast meat, 117 leather, 62 tubes of alcohol, 8 plastic bags, 2 toothbrushes. Of course, not forgetting psychological damages, the loss of youth, child support payment, individual tax, interest and so on. Counting with compounded 8-14 returns, this is indeed rather complicated.
The facial muscles of Old Mourbo twitched incessantly, as he couldn’t resist the impulse to roar furiously.
How the hell is it so much?
Mogensha batted a look at him, and coldly refuted.
Honorable Tsahik, that is truly how much you owe us. Oh right, Mr Jinkuang, you forgot to count in another thing.
Jinkuang was startled, and released a piercing squawk.
How is that possible? How can it be that I’ve shortchanged on something!! To me, it is impossible for such a far-fetched and novice mistake to occur!
Mogensha glanced towards Old Mourbo with malicious intent.
Before this old thing encountered us, his son was a good-for-nothing crippled! Thus, there is still 2 legs!
Jinkuang cusped his face as he released an exaggerated yell.
My friend, how can we possibly reclaim legs that already grows on the body?
Mogensha suggested aloofly.
How do we get drumsticks? Obviously, by chopping it off. Boss mentioned before, to idiots that abandon their benefactors after achieving their goals, logic shouldn’t be used on them. If they dare to discount even a gram of meat, two grams of flesh will be carved out from Takji clansmen as compensation!
Listening to the staged dialogue of the two wretched individuals, Old Mourbo’s eyes flashed with a sinister glint. Beneath his waist, his pure black Great Banshee could also sense its master’s emotions, as it flapped his wings furiously and roared! Such a sensation was as coercive as a precipitous ridge that was on the verge of collapse. It was obvious, the killing intent of this old man had been triggered.
Instead, Mogensha slanted his lips, and strode forward widely. Clutching onto the barrel of his Golden AK, he easily twisted his rifle and viciously slammed its butt against old Mourbo’s face! Mogensha had used such ferocity, that blood trickled out from old Mourbo’s nose and stars appeared in his vision!
Old Mourbo had utterly not anticipated such a ridiculous turn of events. In this moment, he could feel blood rushing towards his head, as he howled crazily; intending to act out. Instead, Mogensha spat a consolation phlegm towards him, staring at him with disdain and contempt.
Old fart, I can see that greed has blinded you that you can’t even see fundamental rationality. Who do you think you are, when compared to Cherokee? Can the Takji clan compare with the Mosake clan? Look at them, they had been beaten up like dogs with tails between their legs, cowering inside the Windstone Highland for fear of leaving! Even your bullshit Mother Nature Eywa couldn’t deal with us. You have the nerve to destroy the bridge after crossing the river?
When Brother Black spoke till here, he repeatedly slapped his rifle butt against old Mourbo’s face.
Let me tell you. If you dare to touch a single strand of hair on my head (Mogensha is bald….), then the Takji clan will lose one member! If I lose a single drop of blood, blood will flow from the entire Takji clan!
Pressing onto his bone-blade across his chest, old Mourbo’s hands turned rigid and his countenance drastically turned distressed. His mind was totally blank, as he shivered violently from head to toe. Even though Mogensha could easily be decimated by himself and his mighty banshee……..even though Mogensha continued humiliating him by slapping his face with the rifle butt, he could not make a single retaliation. He dared not make a single retaliation!!!
Mogensha looked as though he was tremendously pleased with the reaction of this wily old fox. After a brief pause, he issued.
Before he left temporarily, boss mentioned that he was merely mobilizing a feint, observing if withdrawing the pressure away is able to lure the Mosake clan out. However, if he doesn’t gain a single first-hand information about the internal affairs of the Mosake clan within 20 minutes, then his feint would shift towards demanding repayment from the Takji clan.
After a while, old Mourbo shut his eyes. His expression blended with anger and anxiety, before gradually becoming stupefied. Following that, he bluntly knelt to the ground, before prostrating himself as he kissed Mogensha’s shoe. Then, he proclaimed emotionlessly.
You will very swiftly receive what you desire, my master.
After finishing, old Mourbo once again handed over everything that he had kept previously, before leaping up his beloved Great Banshee; flapping its wings, it soared away. This time, old Mourbo only returned after spending 10 minutes. However, when he dismounted from his Great Banshee, he directly slumped to the ground and fainted.
One could vividly see an immensely terrifying wound across Mourbo’s thigh, as though he had been clawed by a massive beast. A strip of flesh had been forcefully ripped out, as blood spewed forth like a hot spring.
Even his mount screeched mournfully as it fluttered is wings incessantly; 3-4 long arrows had pierced deep into its body. If not for the indomitable might of this black Great Banshee, those few arrows could have been sufficient to claim its life!
Though the Mosake clan did not possess high speed mobility and strength of aerial forces, its anti-air capabilities was still exceptionally potent, and wouldn’t tolerate aerial forces from scorning them!
Witnessing this scene, Mogensha frowned. By this time, Sheyan had already rushed back, and after realizing that old Mourbo had earnestly toiled with his life at stake, he didn’t proceed to urge him. Fortunately, their human treatments had a much more effective standard as compared to the na’vis, and were able to rapidly treat and bandage old Mourbo up. That old man was truly redoubtable, and woke up after a brief while. Then, he struggled to kneel and kiss Sheyan’s feet, before he divulged systematically and in full detail.
I reckon the Mosake clan can hold on for an extremely long while. They only lack food supplies, but they’ve begun slaughtering those injured clansmen and their tamed beasts for food.
Upon hearing such a news, Reef couldn’t help but ask.
Is Cherokee not afraid of inciting an internal strife?
Old Mourbo replied blankly.
Everyone would transfer their animosity towards us instead, becoming more unified over the blood and flesh of their comrades……..still, this is something I’ve heard from the old patriarch. What I saw and heard instead, were some resistance and great weeping.
Sheyan nodded, as he pondered briefly before turning around to leave.
Night descended once again.
Sheyan and company were presently residing within a nearby forest of the Windstone Highland. The arachnid overlords shuttled around the skies round the clock. These tireless creatures were indeed the best sentinels and eyes for them, even a bird wouldn’t escape their eyes. Thus, Sheyan and the rest boldly encamped inside the forest, and did not arrange for any security.
The Takji clansmen had grown up with the jungle, and casually gathered several unremarkable looking vegetation to cover a bonfire; allowing faint, insipid white fumes to fumigate out, causing the total disappearance of pesky blood sucking insects. With them participating in this skirmish, Sheyan and the rest became more at ease, digging into the sleeping bags within their tent as they quickly fell asleep. They understood, sooner or later, a massive gruelling battle would transpire. Therefore, everyone did their utmost to rest, preserving and nurturing back their spirits; intending to welcome the upcoming bitter battle at their optimal state.
Yet this very night, Sheyan was suffering from insomnia. He had been contemplating over a problem regarding the Mosake clan. Due to them having infiltrated the Mosake clan’s metropolis once, Sheyan was exceedingly clear on the ‘easily guarded, hard to attack’ terrain of the place. Hence, if Cherokee really hardened his heart, and devoured his clansmen for food; this would surely become a thorny problem. To him, he wasn’t confident that mobilizing a massive invasion by the zerglings would be successful. Moreover, the time duration they had left in this world was becoming increasingly limited.
The night of Pandora wasn’t dark at all. With myriads of bioluminescent vegetation, it imposed a hazy perception of indistinct beauty. Sheyan understood this logic – if he were to encounter a certain difficulty, he wouldn’t reveal it to his comrades only until absolutely essential. If not, it would impair his current authority, demoralize them and cause them to panic internally.
Chapter 449: Wild tail twisting slaughter!
Because of matters troubling his heart, Shyan purposefully avoided the encampment the rest were residing in. Instead, he headed out for a stroll around the surroundings, bitterly contemplating on gaps that he could exploit. At present, his complete inability to decipher Chieftain Cherokee’s flaw was his greatest headache. This was the toughest issue, besides, the ultimate goal of this mission was to slay him. Know thyself and thy enemy, and one will never be defeated; the current lack of knowledge regarding the Mosake clan’s internal affairs, was one of the reasons Sheyan couldn’t come to a resolution.
Suddenly at this instant, Sheyan felt a burning sensation overwhelm his back, as though a huge blistering hot chunk of molten iron had scraped speedily across his back; before finally extending towards his entire body! Right now, Sheyan could be hailed as a veteran in battle, yet he couldn’t stop himself from breaking out in cold sweat. What kind of assault was this, to actually encompass his entire body!!
He spun round fiercely, realizing that this forest was emitting a sensation of sentience in the dark of night! The towering trees were swaying, with binding vines bobbling between the trees. Within a second, Sheyan noticed an abrupt shadow fleeing in disarray. Only now did he discover, the tree vines were mixed with several astonishingly thick and slender shadows; like indescribable spirit snakes. At this instant, the tentacle-like shadow hissed as it tore through the air and jolted towards Sheyan.
Upon seeing that shadow jolting towards him with such pace, Sheyan knew he could not evade it. Anyway, his current HP and defence was impressive, and he clenched his teeth while blocking his front with both hands! If this sneak assault could directly sink him into near-death state, that would be too absurd. Thus, he had no notions of fighting to the death; at most, after being whipped and sent flying, he would borrow the force to escape. As long as he could create a buffer of a dozen plus seconds, he would definitely be able to call for aid.
Instead, when that long shadow lashed against Sheyan’s body, it coiled consecutively in midair with unparalleled deftness; momentarily, it tightly constrict Sheyan! After this black shadow had bound him, Sheyan finally realized its skin surface was supremely rough, and discharged a fishy odour that assailed his nose. However, Sheyan could feel wild surges of volcanic like strength hidden beneath the flesh of its epidermis!
[ You received a surprise attack from an unknown creature. ]
[ Unknown creature ability ‘Wild Tail Twisting-slaughter’ – constricts your mobility and continually drain away your health! ]
[ As quickly as possible, extricate yourself from this state. Once your health plunges beneath a certain degree, negative buffs of bone fractures, suffocation, and blood loss will surface. ]
Following that ‘Wild tail’ rapidly contracting in, a massive force emanated out from its interior. Sheyan struggled to break free, but discovered he didn’t possess the strength to do so! His face rapidly flushed with red, only to feel the bones within his body echoing with creaks.
During the first few seconds of being constricted, Sheyan felt that though he was entrapped, he could still withstand the binding force. Instead, he had no clue about the killing danger it contained, the ruthlessness it concealed!
After the ‘Wild tail’ had bounded his waist, though its contracting strength wasn’t very immense, it persisted without a shred of slack. It wasn’t false that Sheyan was a contestant, but he was ultimately still a human; definitely needing to gasp for breath! When a human breathes in, his lungs would expand and his chest pump forward. Yet once he breathed out, his lungs would shrink in and his chest would compress down. Seizing that opportunity, that rightly constricting ‘Wild tail’ immediately besieged him and tightened!
After 2-3 gasps of breath, the horrifying tail had already contracted 3 times, and Sheyan could instantly feel his breath sealing up as he began choking. Borrowing the breathing mechanism of a human, that tail contracted gradually, one bit at a time. Undoubtedly, if this situation were to persist, the Sheyan’s fate could be predicted –
Breathing would obviously become more challenging, and finally his lungs would become totally compressed and cave in; not permitting a single air in nor out his body. At present, the pain was secondary, the terrifying perception of being suffocated to death was now his primary governing thought!
In this instant, Sheyan’s mind immediately flashed with only one notion – to endure against this terrifying tail, the deciding factor wouldn’t be how much HP he had, but his strength! A strength that could resist this tail!
In a split second, a glaring glimmer sparkled from Sheyan’s neck, while he directly employed a ‘Strength gene-mix’ from his nightmare realm interspatial storage! His peak 49 points of strength resurfaced again, and instantly managed to stabilize the situation. In a blink of an eye, a Takji warrior had discovered an abnormal commotion and had rushed over. Sheyan was about to shout out a warning, but his breath was immediately stifled by the suppression over his chest.
After running a few steps forward, yet another terrifying long tail bolted out and tightly coiled around that Takji warrior. The Takji warrior wrestled as he swung his legs, while kicking haphazardly around. Strength had always been the shortcoming of na’vi warriors. Pop! In a flash, a burst echoed out from his slender long body, like a chestnut being fried! That was the oppressive fracture of his bones succumbing to such otherworldly pressure!
Nevertheless, that na’vi warrior’s desire to live propelled himself to gasp for breath. Except, his fractured rib had pierced his lungs, and his nostrils were jammed with gushing blood. Trying his utmost to struggle, his eye sockets suddenly ruptured as all it could see was ripples of blood red!
Crying for help from the bottom of his heart, that na’vi began convulsing before death’s door; his face was already bloated with bodily fluids. Still, that ‘Wild tail’ remained callously tightening, as mangled innards came belching out from his throat; blood and fluids splattering noisily onto the ground.
Meanwhile, Sheyan caught sight of speckles of emerald glows radiating from within the dark forest. Stabilizing his breath, he carefully directed his attention towards those glows; immediately realizing that they were a pair of diabolical eyes, currently eyeing its prey. He knew instantly that it was shockingly, the source of these ‘Wild tails’ – a group of Wild-tail beasts. A gaze cruised through Sheyan’s body, emanating an utterly discomforting sensation; as though a corpse’s icy moist fingers were violating his body.
Presently, Sheyan noticed that apart from the Wild-tail beast’s exceptional long tail, its back was patterned with two layers of scale ridges; like a hybrid between a lizard an an alligator. Its first impression was that of a herculean tyrant like alligator. However, its nimbleness and stealth could match a lizard when traversing through the forest. In the dark of night, it travelled as though it was a fish in the water; not emitting a single sound.
Sheyan’s consolation came in the form of the Wild-tail beast’s flat mouth, which was analogous to a lizard. Occasionally, it would puff out divided red fogs of breath from its snout, revealing its scarlet tongue which carried a trace of revolting fishy stench. Thick murky saliva dripped down from the cracks of its tooth, and splashed to the ground. From its exterior, one could infer that its mouth didn’t possess powerful tearing strength. If not, it would’ve mimicked an alligator, and toss Sheyan into its mouth after coiling him; before flattening everything on a whimper.
In actual fact, when a Wild-tail beast employed its tail to make a killing, it was inevitably required to summon forth all its bodily strength; becoming totally incapable of executing other movements. When it manages to kill its prey, it wouldn’t directly proceed to feast, but wait for the corpse to decay till a certain rate. When flesh became loosened, then it would commence its meal; a scavenger that resembled a hyena.
After realizing this fact, Sheyan’s heart finally calmed down. Even though he couldn’t release a single sound, he was still able to transmit a message through the party channel to Mogensha and Reef. Moreover, the nearby zerglings could also rush to his aid. At most, he needed to endure for a few dozens of seconds.
However, he suddenly sensed a weird fluctuation within that Wild-tail beast’s gaze. It was a stark contrast from an avaricious hunger that a predator would have when capturing its prey. Instead, its gaze was brimming with spite and hostility! Such a sensation, practically contained a flavour of ‘either you die, or I perish’!
Those few Wild-tail beast is actually capable of concealing themselves, and specifically ambushing me; this is definitely something extremely peculiar.
With that thought in mind, an outrageous notion emerged in Sheyan’s heart.
Could it be, that thing is Cherokee?
Yet at this moment, an incomparably muffled gunshot rumbled abruptly into the air! A ringing sound filtered by a silencer, which caused one to involuntarily think of a thick iron hammer smashing against a human skull. A gust of dense chilliness covered the entire battlefield! In merely this one second, those savage pair of emerald eyes glaring at Sheyan was extinguished.
An insanely lethal bullet had drilled between those eyes instantaneously, before splitting the skull of that Wild-tail beast by half! Blood, bone fragments, and brain sap poured out fanatically!
The deadly might of that bullet was tremendous, completely surmounting all imaginations. That Wild-tail beast was stuck flying 5-6 metres away, crashing as it rolled several rounds and struggled frantically. Before its imminent death, its ‘Wild tail’ swept around unceasingly, toppling down trees as it exhibited a final display of astounding strength!
Meanwhile, Sheyan had seized that instance where that beast had suffered a severe blow, and escaped the bindings of its ‘Wild tail’. He somersaulted to the side, and successfully took cover behind a large tree.
Another 2 Wild-tail beasts frantically crept forward with their wriggly bodies, as they surveyed their surroundings with wrathful eyes. Instead, their vision only met with darkness and vegetation; devoid of a hint of a hidden aggressor. The miserable howls of their comrade continued to reverberate through the atmosphere, alongside the reeking stench of blood and smoke.
The aggressor responsible for such a breathtaking gunshot, was obviously that invincible Growth-hunter, Mcdh! After forbearing patiently thus far, he finally assumed the position of a hero!