Chapter 1221-1224
Chapter 1221 – Immensely Powerful Aura
But after seeing the spells that others launched, Zheng Li understood what was going on. He couldn't help but pay more attention towards Zhao Hai. He discovered that Zhao Hai wasn't a team leader. This meant that he was a participant. A participant being stronger than a team leader, this was too astonishing.
However, he couldn't observe for too long. After giving Zhao Hai a glance, Zheng Li left and entered the battle. The fight outside had become very violent. The bugs seem to be endless.
Zhao Hai continually sent out hundred layer formations. The bugs outside slowed down. This doesn't mean that the bugs stopped attacking. It was just that Zhao Hai had already killed the fastest bugs outside the wall.
Upon seeing this situation, Zhao Hai relaxed. Although using hundred layer formations couldn't tire him out, doing so would attract attention towards him. If he continues his attacks, everyone would pay attention to him soon. He doesn't want that to happen. He was already eye-catching enough.
Zhao Hai stopped firing magic, he closed his eyes, and then drank a bottle of potion. It looked as if he was recovering his energy. This made Zheng Li, who was paying attention to Zhao Hai, feel relieved.
Zheng Li was counting, and Zhao Hai had fired a total of eight 100-layer formation spells. These eight spells weren't the same, which meant that these spells weren't dependent on Zhao Hai's staff but instead in Zhao Hai's spiritual force. Even if his staff was a treasure, only a formidable spiritual force could allow him to fire off eight 100-layer formations. This was an astonishing feat. Even average level 5 Mages couldn't achieve this.
It was good that Zhao Hai was now catching up his breath. Otherwise, Zheng Li would have to reevaluate how he sees Zhao Hai. In fact, it wasn't just Zheng Li, other people were also looking at Zhao Hai in surprise. They didn't expect Zhao Hai to be so fierce. Sending out eight 100-layer formations almost instantaneously, how much spiritual force does this require? They were astonished when they thought about it.
Taking advantage of the bugs slowing down, the Cultivators as well as Ma Rulong and the others dealt with the bugs on the walls. However, they didn't celebrate, they knew that another wave of offense was coming soon.
Although the other Mages of the Machine Field were also firing spells towards the bugs, their effects weren't very good. Their power wasn't as great as Zhao Hai. As long as Zhao Hai's attacks reach the bugs, they would be heavily injured if not killed. On the other hand, the other Mages could only give wounds to the bugs, they couldn't kill them.
The life force of these bugs was very strong. As long as they weren't hit in a vital part, they could still continue to fight for a long time. Because of this, the other Mages weren't able to deal with the bugs effectively.
Ma Rulong also noticed this point. He knew that the spells of the others weren't necessarily bad. They were using wide-scale magic so their attacking power was naturally dispersed. It was natural that they weren't able to kill the bugs.
This also allowed Ma Rulong to see the difference between Zhao Hai's spells and the spells of other people.
Upon thinking about this, Ma Rulong couldn't help but shake his head. Then he loudly commanded, "Everyone, change to single-target attacks. There's no need to use wide-scale attacks." Upon hearing Ma Rulong, the Mages couldn't help but feel their faces redden. They knew that they lost face this time. They couldn’t help but get embarrassed. Then they changed to single-target attacks and achieved better effects.
Not only the Mages, even the Cultivators were also using single-target attacks. However, their attacks were coming from magic treasures, different to the Mages and Warriors that use Magic and Sword Qi.
Since the bugs that had climbed up into the wall had already been killed, the Cultivators found that it was now easier to deal with the bugs. Ma Rulong paid attention and saw that even if the Cultivators were using different treasures to make numerous attacks, their effects were still much better compared to magic spells and sword qi attacks.
The Machine Field's spells and sword qi seemed like bullets fired from a gun. Once the bullet has been fired, they could no longer be controlled. If it was shot down, then it would be impossible for it to injure the enemy. After all, bullets could not make a turn mid-flight.
The Cultivators' weapons were different. Once their weapons were released, they could still be controlled. It was like a missile that can be remotely controlled to chase the target. With more control over their attacks, the Cultivators were able to deal more damage.
Although the people on the walls were able to block the bug attack, Zhao Hai wasn't optimistic. It seems like the bugs were endless. Moreover, only low-level bugs were attacking. If a higher level bug appears, then what would happen?
Whether it be Cultivators, Mages, or Warriors, none of them would be able to stay in peak condition for a very long time. If no reinforcements came, then Base Number 5 would be in deep danger.
As he was thinking about this, the transmission formation of the base flashed. Then a large number of Cultivators emerged. These Cultivators immediately flew towards the city walls. Naturally, this flash couldn't be hidden from the defenders. A cheer erupted as the attacks became faster.
Upon seeing this situation, Zhao Hai relaxed. He closed his eyes and continued to pretend to be recovering. Just like him, there were also several Cultivators, Mages, and Warriors recovering their energy. The reinforcements had already reached the walls. At this moment, there was no longer and division between Cultivators and people from the Machine Field. The situation was now purely humans versus bugs.
Seeing that the walls had been well-defended, Zhao Hai thoroughly felt relieved. Meanwhile, even if he was still closing his eyes, he was actually paying attention to the cultivators. He wanted to take a look at their offensive strength.
One has to say that the Cultivators were indeed very strong. Although they had numerous strange and unusual magical artifacts, once these artifacts were used properly, their lethality couldn't be underestimated. The attacks made by these artifacts were much more powerful than Mage spells.
Moreover, Zhao Hai discovered that the attacks made by these Cultivators were much stronger than Li Chuchen's. Li Chuchen might have a lot of attacks that were swift and fierce, but these Cultivators from Base Number 5 were on a different level. They were unforgiving in their attacks, all of it were meant to kill. Each action they do were all done with an intent to eliminate the enemy. Zhao Hai knew that this can only come forth through innumerable combat situations. In summary, the experiences they gained were kill, kill, kill!
Zhao Hai was aware that it was these kinds of people that were dangerous. People like Li Chuchen might be undefeatable, but you can still retreat when faced against them. But as for Base Number 5's Cultivators, if you weren't dead, then you would be severely injured.
Just as Zhao Hai was paying attention to the artifacts that these Cultivators were using, a powerful imposing aura was suddenly felt from outside the city. This was the most powerful imposing aura that Zhao Hai had ever felt in his life.
Zhao Hai felt his heart turn tighter. This imposing aura certainly wasn't coming from a person. This aura was as firm as a mountain, but was as wild as a savage beast. Even savage people couldn't let out this kind of aura. This was certainly coming from the Bug Race.
It wasn't only Zhao Hai who felt this imposing aura, the others did as well. Everyone's faces changed color immediately. None of these people were ignorant, they all knew what this aura represented.
It was a powerful bug, a very hard to deal with creature. If the bug race did indeed send a powerful bug to attack the base, then the base was truly in danger.
While everyone was thinking about this, the danger had already arrived. The bugs that had just slowed down seem to have turned crazy. All of them frantically rushed to the base. It didn't take long before all of the walls were in a dangerous situation.
Zhao Hai looked at the situation and couldn't help but sigh. He had a feeling that Base Number 5 could no longer be defended. He immediately sent forth several hundred-layer formations. Then he moved towards Ma Rulong and then whispered, "Team leader, we couldn't defend this place anymore. Make everyone prepare to evacuate, just in case."
Ma Rulong looked at the situation around them, then he sighed and said, "I also want to retreat, but we cannot fall back now. If we do, the battle will be taken to the streets. We have less advantage there. Let's defend here for a while, then afterwards….."
Just as Ma Rulong said that, the imposing aura sped up towards the base. Everyone's expression turned dark. They knew that the powerful bug has come!
Zhao Hai looked at the base before turning his head to Ma Rulong and said, "Team Leader, I'll head back first to check on my brothers."
Ma Rulong looked at Zhao Hai and then sighed before nodding. He was beginning to feel despair at this point. Outside the base was an inexhaustible sea of bugs. And now there was a very powerful bug approaching the base. With only them here, it was impossible to defend the base. The only thing they could do now was to do their best to hold on for several minutes.
The other Cultivators were also thinking the same way. To be honest, these Cultivators cherish their lives more than ordinary people. They worked hard and even robbed in order to become immortals. Even if it was clear that there was no hope, they would still not give up knowing that they can live for a few more minutes.
Zhao Hai didn't think about the situation so much. He knew that he wouldn't die. But he was in a dilemma. He was now deciding whether he should take Xiong Li and the others with him and leave, or to show his power and deal with the bugs. If he uses his strength to deal with the bugs, then the base would surely be saved. However, he could no longer act low-key in the future.
On the other hand, if he took Xiong Li and the others to leave, then they would be able to discover the Space. This was his biggest secret. If this goes known, then he would have no place in the World of Cultivation. Whether it be in the Machine Field or wherever else, people would want to catch him.
Of course, Zhao Hai wouldn't be caught. However, it would be very hard for him to gain a foothold in the World of Cultivation. This was the reason why Zhao Hai was in a dilemma.
Although it wasn't a big deal if Zhao Hai reveals his power, one shouldn't forget that it had been less than a year since he had ascended. If he showed outstanding prowess, then wouldn't people be suspicious?
But when he thought about this, Zhao Hai couldn't help but smack his own head. He suddenly remembered something. It wouldn't be a problem if his strength suddenly increased. This was because the Ashley Family told him that if worse comes to worst, then he could use Liquid Silver. Liquid Silver was a weapon of legends. It should be able to keep attention off of him for a while.
Also, after the Six Realm Beginner Competition, people would be aware of his strength. Even if people wanted to deal with him, the scale wouldn't be as bad.
With this thought in mind, Zhao Hai began to relax. He also understood that being too low-key wouldn't be good. As long as you have enough strength, then you would be able to call the wind and summon the rain. Even if people wanted to covet your treasure, nobody would dare make a move. On the other hand, if you don't have the strength, then even if you don't have anything, people would still catch you and turn you into a slave. This was the case with non-practitioners in the Cultivation Realm.
At this time, Zhao Hai arrived at the courtyard where they were staying in. Xiong Li and the others were eagerly defending the place. Dongfang Yu was still silent. Zhao Hai used his spiritual force to scan the room only to be repelled. This caused him to be startled. He immediately asked Cai'er to look into what's happening in the room.
Before long, Cai'er reported what was happening. Dongfang Yu can currently cross-legged on the ground. His entire body was red, probably at a crucial point in his cultivation.
Upon hearing Cai'er, Zhao Hai's facial color changed. He knew that they could no longer leave. This was the most important moment in Dongfang Yu's cultivation. If Dongfang Yu was interrupted, then he might be heavily injured.
At this moment, Xiong Li and the others also saw Zhao Hai. They quickly flew towards him. Then Xiong Li worriedly asked, "Little Hai, how is the wall doing? Where did that powerful aura come from? Can we hold on?"
Zhao Hai smiled bitterly and said, "I'm afraid we couldn't hold on. And even worse, we cannot disturb Second Brother now, otherwise his cultivation would be severely damaged. It seems like we really have to go all out this time."
Upon hearing Zhao Hai, the color in Xiong Li and the others' faces changed. Xiong Li immediately said, "Alright, let's head to the wall. We need to block off those bugs."
However, Zhao Hai shook his head and said, "You going there is useless. You might as well continue defending this place. If a bug comes, kill them all. Leave the walls to me." Then his body disappeared as he quickly returned to the wall.
Chapter 1222 – Silverback Gold-winged Bug
Zhao Hai calmly returned to the city. He looked at the distance and felt the powerful aura closing in fast. It wouldn't take long before it would arrive. The expressions on everyone on the walls weren't good. They knew that when the immensely powerful bug gets close to the base, then that would be their end.
The insects outside were still coming in. Everyone was doing their best to resist. However, it can be seen that they were doing their final struggles.
Ma Rulong saw Zhao Hai, but he wasn't in the mood to manage him right now. Although he didn't stop attacking, the color of his face was already pale. This was partly because he was tired, and partly because he was worried.
Ma Rulong brought the elites of the Machine Field in the past five years with him. And some were even the strongest people in the last decade. If all of them were lost here, then he would have no face left to show the higher ups of the Machine Field.
But now he can't leave, and would only wait for his death in this place. This feeling was really bad, he doesn't have any means to deal with it.
Ma Rulong felt that his heart was on its last embers. He scolded himself again and again. Why must they come here early? If they came later, then they would have evaded the tragedy. Coming here was just charging to their deaths. Not only that, he was ruining the Machine Field's hope!
At this time, Ma Rulong suddenly felt a powerful aura that seem to soar through the heavens. This aura wasn't any less than the aura being emitted by the bug, it was even more powerful.
Ma Rulong was startled, then he quickly turned his head around. He saw Zhao Hai calmly standing there, his imposing aura was very strong. Even the powerful bug outside couldn't overwhelm him.
Ma Rulong stared at Zhao Hai. He didn't know what to say. He felt that Zhao Hai was somewhat strange, that Zhao Hai wasn't the person he knew him to be.
Not only Ma Rulong, everyone in the base was looking at Zhao Hai. They were struck dumb by his powerful aura. This was especially true for Cultivators. These Cultivators knew that only Nascent Soul Sect Masters would have an aura as strong as this.
The Nascent Soul stage, people on this level can be regarded as experts in the Cultivation Realm. They were known as grandmasters. This meant that they could already establish their own sects. Besides the major sects, there were a lot of minor sects that were created by these Nascent Soul experts.
And it wasn't only those in the base that were dumbfounded, the bugs that were attacking the base couldn't help but pause. Although they weren't afraid of death, their instincts could still stop them in their tracks.
Animal instinct was much keener than a human's. Although the level of intelligence of these insects weren't high, they could clearly feel Zhao Hai's imposing aura. Zhao Hai managed to put pressure on them that they couldn't help but slow down.
As for the powerful bug , it naturally sensed Zhao Hai's aura. In turn, it intensified its aura. The bug's aura exploded with intensity, it was like a tide that suddenly welled up.
Zhao Hai's aura slowly increased. It was like an ordinary rock in the sea, steadfast against all currents!
Both the base and the insects couldn't help but stop. This was no longer a fight they could participate in. For weak beings like them, the only thing they could do was wait for the outcome.
The bug's imposing aura was quickly approaching. Before long, Zhao Hai could already feel the bug with his spiritual force. He didn't really expect the bug's aura to be this strong. This caused a huge impact towards the entire base.
As soon as he saw the bug, Zhao Hai immediately noticed its differences compared to the other bugs. This bug was a huge version of a rhinoceros beetle. It's back was akin to black iron. A silvery white stripe streaked through its entire body. It's back was opened as a pair of golden wings provided it with flight. It had six blade-like feet that added to its menacing look. In front and behind the head of the bug were two sharp horns. One could see the offensive capability of this bug.
Silverback Gold-winged Bug, Zhao Hai immediately thought of this name. He was certain that this was the silverback gold-winged bug. The name alone described what this bug looked like.
Zhao Hai's body slowly flew up, then he proceeded to fly forward. When he was a kilometer away from the base, he stopped.
Before long, the bug flew up until he was a kilometer away from Zhao Hai. The bug's blood-red eyes were looking at Zhao Hai. There was even a hint of confusion in its gaze.
Zhao Hai looked at the insect, then he smiled faintly and said, "What clever fellows. You actually had the idea to lure the tiger out of the mountain. Now that you lured the Nascent Soul Experts out, you attacked the city once more. Interesting. I didn't expect you bugs to be this smart."
The rhinoceros beetle-like bug had a glimmer of pride in its eyes. It roared twice as if to show off to Zhao Hai.
Zhao Hai looked at the rhinoceros beetle, then he smiled faintly and said, "But now that I'm here, you can no longer attack the base. Go back now, I don't want to injure you." The bug seems to understand Zhao Hai's words. It's eyes flashed with anger before he charged towards Zhao Hai. Zhao Hai smiled faintly and then waved his hand. A 100-layer formation appeared, forming a big shield that blocked the attack coming in front.
Since this bug was like a rhinoceros beetle, its main attack was ramming with its huge horn. Zhao Hai braced for the impact. A huge bang was heard before Zhao Hai's shield was shattered. However, the bug didn't slow down at all, it still continued to charge towards Zhao Hai.
Zhao Hai held up his staff and then used it to block. 'Dang', a loud sound was heard as the rhinoceros horn slammed into Zhao Hai's staff. However, the staff didn't move. Not only was the staff unfazed, Zhao Hai was also unaffected by the attack. He was able to completely block the bug's attack.
A burst of energy erupted from where the staff and the horn intersected. A wave of energy spread out. The bugs around them were hit by this wave of energy. The bugs that were hit were immediately turned into green dust.
The strength of the collision caused those in the base to be startled. Whether they be from the Cultivation Realm or the Machine FIeld, even those with weak spiritual force, all of them could easily see the situation a kilometer outside the base. Not to mention the fact that it was now bright as daylight, it was very easy to see the fight. The Cultivators in the base were taken aback by the strength of the impact.
When the bug discovered that it failed to damage Zhao Hai, it quickly retreated. Then it reorganized itself before attacking once more. One could feel the aura of an ancient general coming from the bug. It had exquisite combat skills. All of its actions were well executed and used a bit of martial arts.
The silverback gold-winged bug was small. All in all, it was six feet tall. It had two pointed horns that can be used as weapons. And with its thick armor, it was like a knight holding a lance and a shield. Moreover, it had six blade-like feet that can also be used for attack. Ordinary people wouldn't be able to deal with this bug.
However, Zhao Hai wasn't an ordinary person. His body moved as he began to send spells one after the other. The staff in his hand was also used as a weapon. He wasn't in any disadvantage in a melee against the bug.
People in the base now knew that Zhao Hai was both a Mage and a Warrior. Moreover, his skill in both professions was formidable. The people from the Cultivation Realm were quickly able to accept this. Meanwhile, those from the Machine Field had mixed feelings about it.
There were a lot of participants who had met Zhao Hai in the competition. Before this, they were not convinced of their loss. But after seeing Zhao Hai, those who were unwilling to accept their loss couldn't help but be convinced. They knew that Zhao Hai was still holding back when he fought them. If Zhao Hai did indeed use his true ability, then they would have been injured to near death. They thought that they might only be warm-up for Zhao Hai.
With this thought in mind, people couldn't help but get embarrassed. Naturally, some people felt envy and hate. One of these people was Streep. He already envied and hated ZHao Hai before this, but he just didn't have the opportunity to act. After seeing Zhao Hai fighting evenly with the silverback gold-winged bug, Streep became aware of how naive he really was. At the same time, he felt that he was lucky. If he had acted against Zhao Hai, then he would have died. He thought that Zhao Hai was just a strong level 4 Mage.
When he thought of this, Streep's face turned red with anger. He didn't know why Zhao Hai suddenly showed his strength, which was unbecoming of Zhao Hai. But no matter what, Zhao Hai had already displayed his immense strength. This only meant that Streep would have to make another plan to deal with him.
Amongst everyone present, only Ma Rulong knew why Zhao Hai suddenly showed off his strength. Ma Rulong knew about Zhao Hai's relationship with Xiong Li and the others. Zhao Hai went back and saw that Dongfang Yu couldn't be disturbed. Those who were in seclusion shouldn't be disturbed. If the base was broken through, then Dongfang Yu would certainly be attacked. This might be the reason why Zhao Hai made his move.
Ma Rulong wasn't angry that Zhao Hai wasn't going all out before. On the contrary, he felt that Zhao Hai did the right thing. Those from the Cultivation Realm weren't easy to deal with. If they discover that Zhao Hai was this strong, then they would be able to prepare. When the time comes, Zhao Hai would have more trouble when trying to defeat them.
When he thought of this, Ma Rulong couldn't help but feel his heart going hot. He knew that with Zhao Hai's current strength, he could definitely achieve great results in the Six Realm Beginner Competition. As long as Zhao Hai gets great results, then the Machine Field would get benefits. Then as a team leader, Ma Rulong would also get benefits.
What Ma Rulong didn't know was that at this time, Xiong Li and the others were also looking at the direction where Zhao Hai and the beetle fought. Tears were actually in their eyes. If they still had any doubts about Zhao Hai's feelings for them, then all of these doubts were now gone!
Chapter 1223 – Drinking a Forbidden Potion
Xiong Li and the others became friends with Zhao Hai because of various reasons: his temperament, his friendliness, and many more. However, they were all from the lower realms, their hearts were as hard as iron. It was impossible for them to leave their lives to other people just because of friendship.
Xiong Li and the others regarded themselves and Zhao Hai as friends. But although they call themselves brothers, their relationship wasn't that deep. But faced with Zhao Hai's sacrifice of facing the silverback gold-winged bug alone, Xiong Li and the others' hearts melted. They now regarded him as a brother for a lifetime.
Zhao Hai continued to fight the silverback gold-winged bug. Moreover, they went farther and farther from the base. They fought until the bugs and the base were far away. Surprisingly, the bugs didn't use this opportunity to attack. Instead, they slowly retreated.
Seeing the bugs retreating, the people in the base cheered. The Bug Race's retreat was really important for the base. Now that the bugs had left, this meant that the base was safe.
At this moment, the base's transmission formation flashed with white light. Walking out of this formation was a group of Cultivators. The quality of this group of cultivators was clearly higher than those before. Each one of them had threatening auras. Moreover, some of them were experts of the Nascent Soul Stage.
Upon seeing the Nascent Soul experts, everyone in the base began to relax. Zheng Li immediately welcomed the reinforcements. At this point, Ma Rulong became aware of Zheng Li's identity. Zheng Li's Five Element Team was the entire garrison of Base Number 5. This meant that the captain was the manager of the entire base. As for the Nascent Soul defenders, they really didn't care about positions.
Zheng Li arrived in front of the five Nascent Soul experts and then gave them a salute, "I have seen the five grandmasters."
One of the five was a red-faced old man, he nodded and said, "Alright, did the bugs retreat?" Zheng Li nodded and said, "Yes, they retreated." The red-faced old man nodded and said, "Tell me what happened."
Zheng Li nodded, then he said, "Yes. Masters, please take a rest at the main hall first. Allow me to give you a comprehensive report." The five Nascent Soul experts didn't say anything and just nodded. Then they all flew towards Base Number 5's main hall.
These Nascent Soul Experts knew that a small captain like Zheng Li still had quite the power in Fabio Planet. Although Zheng Li couldn't control them, these Nascent Soul Experts still needed to give Zheng Li face.
After the group arrived in the main hall, Zheng Li immediately gave an account of the situation to the five experts. Upon hearing the details, the five couldn't help but be stunned. When Zheng Li finished, the red-faced old man immediately said, "You mean the bug attack was blocked by someone from the Machine Field? Are you sure?"
Zheng Li quickly replied, "I won't dare lie in front of the grandmasters. That is indeed the case. Zhao Hai is a participant of the Six Realm Beginner Competition. His initial strength is only slightly stronger than a level 4 Mage. However, when the silverback gold-winged bug attacked, he suddenly exploded with strength."
The red-faced old man knit his brows and said, "He's participating in the Six Realm Beginner Competition? When did such a powerful figure appear in the Machine Field. Hmmm, I seem to have heard of this Zhao Hai. He gained first place in the Machine Field's qualifiers. He also blocked three attacks from that kid Li Chuchen from Extreme Cold City. But is he really that strong?"
The others nodded. Meanwhile, Zheng Li just stood there without saying anything. Ordinary electronic products wouldn't function in Fabio Planet. Besides places that can be reached by short distance teleportation, the planet had no news coming from the outside. Therefore, those in the planet weren't well-informed about Zhao Hai and the others.
The red-faced old man and the others just came from the Cultivation Realm, so they knew about Zhao Hai, albeit not too detailed. But because of this, all of them couldn't help but wonder. Can a Machine Field rookie really contend against a silverback gold-winged bug? This sounds like something from fantasy.
Silverback gold-winged bugs were high-level beings in Fabio Planet. A fully grown silverback gold-winged bug could never be defeated by an ordinary Nascent Soul Expert. It would need multiple Nascent Soul Experts to defeat a single adult silverback gold-winged bug. And it wasn't certain that they could kill it, only injure. Since this was the case, hearing that a rookie from the Machine Field managed to fight one silverback gold-winged insect alone was something that only very few people could believe.
The red-faced old man as well as the others stayed silent for some time. Zheng Li didn't dare to make a noise as he just respectfully stood there. After staying in Fabio Planet for some time, he knew when to speak and when to stay silent.
At this time, a frail and scholarly looking expert said, "Did Zhao Hai do anything special before fighting the Silverback Gold-winged bug?"
Zheng Li stared for a moment, he didn't quite understand what this person was asking about. However, he didn't dare speak his mind. Although this scholarly man looked frail, Zheng Li knew that he was the strongest and most ruthless among the five.
Therefore, he quickly responded, "He didn't do anything special. But when he was fighting ordinary bugs, he drank a bottle of potion to recover. And before fighting against the silverback gold-winged bug, he returned to the base to check in on his friends. This is because one of them is still in seclusion. "
The scholar nodded and said, "Zhao Hai's strength shouldn't be so high. He must have used a secret potion that burns his potential in order to increase his strength. If he really used that, then there's no need to worry about him. If Zhao Hai didn't use this kind of potion, then he would be terrifying." The others in the room nodded. They also agreed to the scholar's point of view. Zhao Hai must have taken a secret potion. Otherwise, he wouldn't have become that strong.
Meanwhile, Ma Rulong was unaware of this conversation. He was currently leading his people back to their courtyard. Xiong Li and the others were still there, they didn't leave even for a single step. Moreover, there was no need for them to step forward. The arrival of the Nascent Soul Experts meant that Base Number 5 was already safe.
After Ma Rulong had the others take a rest, he directly went to see Xiong Li and the others. Xiong Li and the others had already calmed down. They knew that Zhao Hai's action of revealing his strength would put him in great danger. They accepted this outcome but they buried the sentiment deep inside their hearts.
Ma Rulong looked at Xiong Li and the others, he sighed and then patted Xiong Li's shoulder as he said, "Zhao Hai will be safe, don't worry."
Xiong Li smiled faintly and said, "Team leader, rest assured, we know that Little Hai will come back. That bug couldn't take his life. Also, he needs to return for the Six Realm Beginner Competition." Ma Rulong nodded, then he suddenly laughed and said, "I didn't expect that kid to conceal that much strength. It seems like the Machine Field will win big in the competition." Li Kuangren and the others laughed as well. They were confident in Zhao Hai. They believed that he would come back, he certainly will.
At this time, Zhao Hai and the silverback gold-winged bug were already far from Base Number 5. They were currently on a mountain in Fabio Planet. Although massive insects inhabit the planet, its environment was actually very good. There were giant trees everywhere and its mountains were covered in forests. Taking a broad view of the planet, one could see a sea of green.
Upon feeling that there was truly nobody around them, Zhao Hai waved his hand and sent forth a 1000-layer formation. After beating the silverback gold-wing insect back, Zhao Hai waved his staff as the formation formed into a huge net.
The rhinoceros beetle stepped back from the net and then spewed a lightning bolt out of its mouth towards Zhao Hai. This lightning was as thick as a bucket. One could see how powerful it was.
Zhao hai didn't expect this rhinoceros beetle to have a lightning attack. However, he didn't stop as he sent another 1000-layer formation to block the lightning.
Upon seeing the flexible maneuvers of the silverback gold-winged bug, Zhao Hai knew that it would be impossible for him alone to deal with it. So he waved his hand and released an army of Undead that immediately charged towards the beetle.
The rhinoceros beetle looked at this situation and couldn’t help but pause. Then it angrily roared as it attacked the Undead. It must be said that the beetle was very strong. When it came it contact with the Undead, it was able to kill them in large numbers.
The Undead weren't true immortals, and with the powerful attack of the beetle, these Undead were smashed into pieces. It was impossible for them to continue living.
Zhao Hai calmly looked at the battle between the beetle and the Undead. He didn't do anything as he waited for an opportunity. He knew that the beetle was still keeping an eye on him. If he moved now, then the beetle would definitely run away.
After fighting with the bug for so long, Zhao Hai learned to never underestimate it. He knew too little of Fabio Planet, so he didn't know if the beetle had any other means. He didn't want it to go all out.
The beetle and the Undead continued to fight for an hour. Zhao Hai lost several thousand Undead. In the end the opportunity finally arrived. Zhao Hai moved and then used the Space to teleport himself on top of the beetle. Then Liquid Silver turned into a large net. With such a sudden action, even the Undead that the bug was fighting were caught. The other Undead immediately helped as they pushed the net towards the Space.
As the silverback gold-winged bug entered the Space, a prompt was immediately heard, "New type of bug lifeform detected. It has an aggressive attitude towards the Space. Subduing, subjugation successful. The bug is a genetically modified bug with strong offensive strength. The host can now buy it inside the Space."
Chapter 1224 – Reaction From All Parties
When Zhao Hai heard this prompt, he couldn't help but knit his brows. He wasn't satisfied with the result. The reason he captured the rhinoceros beetle wasn't because he wanted it to help him fight. What he wanted was the Bug Race's evolutionary ability. The prompt didn't mention anything of that sort. It was clear that this silverback gold-winged bug had evolved. This caused Zhao Hai to be confused.
Zhao Hai immediately said, "Cai'er, use the scanner to do an analysis. See what's going on. Why does this bug not have any evolutionary ability?" Caier immediately used the scanner. By this point, the scanner had already reached an advanced level. It can't only analyze objects, it could also make readings about situations.
Not long after the scanner was used, a prompt was heard, "The bug is only a gene improved member of the Bug Race. It doesn't have any capabilities that its parent had, therefore it doesn't have the ability of rapid evolution. From the analysis, there should be a type of bug queen in Fabio Planet. This queen can grasp changes in the environment and conduct gene improvements on the larvae to suit the Bug Race's needs. Since there is too little data, this is just a possibility. Host needs to provide more material."
When he heard the prompt, Zhao Hai stared. Then he nodded once he understood what the scanner meant.
In other words, a Bug Race Queen Nest was in Fabio Planet. This nest must be the key to the Bug Race's ability to evolve rapidly. Bugs like the silverback gold-winged bug didn't have the ability to evolve on their own.
Although the scanner said that this was just a possibility, and can only be used for reference, Zhao Hai knew that it was likely to be true.
Zhao Hai was happy. One, because he knew that there might be a queen nest. And two, because he discovered that the scanner was beginning to sound more natural. Moreover, its ability to analyze had gotten stronger and stronger. This was a very good thing, especially to him, it was very good.
At this time, Laura and the others took a look at the silverback gold-winged bug. To be honest, this bug was basically just an enlarged version of a rhinoceros beetle. Despite its overwhelmingly powerful strength, it actually looked pretty good.
Laura and the others touched the bug as though they had forgotten that it was an insect. It seems like the black sheen on the bug's armor caught their fancy.
Zhao Hai didn't disturb them as he stood on the side and enjoyed the sight. In any case, the bug has already been subdued by the Space. There was no danger for Laura and the others.
Quite some time after inspecting the bug, Laura turned to Zhao Hai and said, "Brother Hai, let's head inside. Cultivators in Base Number 5 are talking about you."
Zhao Hai stared, he raised his eyebrows and said, "Really? What did they say?"
Laura smiled faintly and said, "They said that you took a forbidden potion to become strong. What do you think?"
Zhao Hai stared, then he chuckled and said, "Isn't that great? Then I'll go into seclusion later when I go back. This will make them think that I really took a potion." Laura and the others chuckled as well.
Zhao Hai didn't immediately return to Base Number 5. Instead, he stayed inside the Space for some time before returning.
……………….
The place where Zhao Hai came out from wasn't far from Base Number 5. It didn't take long before he arrived at the base. The Cultivators in the base were still anxious. There were quite a lot of patrols on the wall, obviously on guard against any bug attack.
As Zhao Hai flew forward, a voice was suddenly heard, "Who's that? Halt!" Zhao Hai turned his head to see a Cultivator stepping on his flying sword. Zhao Hai didn't stop as he coldly snorted and continued flying towards the base.
When the Cultivator saw that Zhao Hai ignored him, his expression changed as he said, "Alright, Little Mage. You're quite arrogant. Stop!" Just before the Cultivator finished his statement, a hand suddenly covered his mouth. The owner of the hand quickly looked at Zhao Hai and respectfully said, "I apologize, Mister Zhao Hai. He's new here. Please come in. Everyone from the Machine Field has already returned to the courtyard to rest. You can go there directly." Zhao Hai nodded and then proceeded to fly forward. He didn't mind the two people, he didn't even speak a word. However, the Cultivator didn't have any dissatisfaction on his face.
Once Zhao Hai was no longer in the wall, the second Cultivator let go of the first one. The first Cultivator immediately said, "Third Senior Brother, why did you do that? It's just a Mage from the Machine Field. He dared to be rampant, aren't I supposed to teach him a lesson? We should let him know that he shouldn't be arrogant in the Cultivation Realm."
The Third Senior Brother looked at the man and said, "Stop talking. If I didn't cover your mouth, then you would have already been killed. Do you know who that person is? That's Zhao Hai, he fought off the silverback gold-winged insect alone. If you continued to shout at him, then you will have died in vain." Then he ignored the man and flew away.
The Cultivator stared, then he turned to look at Zhao Hai's direction and muttered, "So he's Zhao Hai. No wonder his aura was so overwhelming. He's that strong."
The Cultivation Realm was a very realistic place. If you were strong, then you can kill all the weaklings you want. But if you're weak, then you can only prostrate yourself to the strong. People might not kill you in public, but there would certainly be someone plotting against you in the shadows. This was the Cultivation Realm.
Zhao Hai didn't care about the man as he directly flew towards the courtyard. Just after he entered, he was immediately discovered by Xiong Li and the others. They surrounded Zhao Hai as Xiong Li worriedly asked, "Little Hai, are you alright?"
Zhao Hai smiled faintly and said, "I'm fine. I just need to close up. Help me inform team leader Ma."
When Xiong Li heard this, he immediately said, "Alright, go. I'll tell team leader Ma." Zhao Hai nodded before quickly going inside Dongfang Yu's room.
Just as Zhao Hai closed the door, Ma Rulong came out of his room. When he saw that Zhao Hai wasn't there, he turned to Xiong Li and the others and said, "Where's Little Hai?"
Xiong Li immediately answered, "Team leader, Little Hai said that he would close up for some time."
Ma Rulong's expression changed. Then he said, "Alright, if Little Hai needs anything, tell me immediately. I'll try to help as much as I can."
Xiong Li and the others nodded. Then Ma Rulong entered his room and immediately sent information back to the Machine Field. Passing on information from here to the Machine Field wasn't easy. Since Fabio Planet had a lot of interference, signals going in and out were being heavily affected. It was great that the Cultivation Realm had devised a way to send signals to other planets through a transmission formation. Then this signal would use the satellites on those planets in order to pass the information.
But in the base, one would need to spend money in order to use this method. Ma Rulong had to pay a hefty price to send information back to the Machine Field.
Ma Rulong was sent on behalf of the realm, so he wasn't worried about these charges. Keeping the Machine Field informed about the situation in Fabio Planet was of utmost importance.
Actually, it wasn't only the Cultivators who suspected Zhao Hai of drinking a special potion. In Ma Rulong's mind, it was the only explanation for Zhao Hai's sudden increase in strength. Anything else was abnormal.
Zhao Hai had just ascended less than a year ago. He learned magic theory in that time frame and now he was as strong as a Nascent Soul Expert? Nobody would be able to believe it.
Meanwhile, the Machine Field and the Cultivation Realm had methods that could make a person stronger in exchange for their potential. These things were quite common. Therefore, people were more inclined to believe that Zhao Hai drank a forbidden potion than Zhao Hai being this innately strong.
Whether it be in the Machine Field or the Cultivation Realm, these kinds of drugs were very overbearing. The side effects would sometimes manifest itself right after the effects wear off. It's even common for a person to just dry up and die. And if they survive, the drug would have a tremendous effect on later cultivations. Because of this, Ma Rulong worriedly passed information back to the Machine Field.
The Machine Field counts on Zhao Hai to gain a good position in the Six Realm Beginner Competition. Now that Zhao Hai was possibly crippled, the matter needed to be reported.
This information wasn't only relevant to Ma Rulong. When Zheng Li heard that Zhao Hai secluded himself right after returning, it affirmed their suspicion that Zhao Hai took something. Otherwise, he wouldn't have been that strong. Zheng Li immediately reported this situation. Whether it be the Machine Field and the Cultivation Realm, they both discussed someone, and it was Zhao Hai!
Zhao Hai was currently inside the Space. He was currently observing Ma Rulong and Zheng Li's response. Ma Rulong still felt good about Zhao Hai. After he reported the situation, the higher ups of the Machine Field told him to give up on Zhao Hai. However, Ma Rulong didn't agree with it. In the end, the Machine Field had to agree with Ma Rulong's arrangement. After all, Ma Rulong was the one in the field, and nobody could influence his actions.
Zhao Hai also expected the response of the Machine Field's higher-ups. It doesn't matter if it was in the Cultivation Realm or the Machine Field, these places were practical in their approach towards useless people. They wouldn't waste any investment in those that wouldn't benefit them.
What Zhao Hai cared the most was the Ashley Family's response. If the Ashley Family and the Machine Field had the same response, then Zhao Hai would be really disappointed.
But much to Zhao Hai's surprise, the Ashley Family didn't give up on him. Thunder didn't tell Margaret to leave Zhao Hai as well. This caused people to wonder about this situation.
Zhao Hai didn't expect this. Thunder was a practical person, so how could have this attitude towards a useless person?
After monitoring Thunder, Zhao Hai began to understand. The Ashley Family needed to send a message, and this message was in Zhao Hai.
The Ashley Family obtained first place in the realm qualifiers because of Zhao Hai. They obtained a lot of benefits and even gained several allies. Funding their development was definitely not a problem.
For the family to develop, they would need all kinds of talents. Thunder knew very well that Zhao Hai might already be crippled. Yet he still gave him the best treatment and even gave him his daughter. This would give bystanders the message, "Look, see how we treat those who contributed to the family. Even if he is crippled, he would still get everything he deserves!" The Ashley Family could use this to attract talents to the Ashley Family. This way, the family could develop as soon as possible.
After looking into Thunder Ashley's actions, Zhao Hai couldn't help but recognize that the Patriarch wasn't a simple man. He could actually achieve something like this.
But no matter what reason, at least they didn't ruthlessly cut him off. Zhao Hai decided to treat the Ahsley Family better in the future. After all, it was also Margaret's family.
At this moment, the Cultivation Realm became relieved about Zhao Hai. They weren't as concerned about him as before. After all, Zhao Hai blocked three swords from Li Chuchen and also killed Gongsun Zheng. There were a lot of people that liked Zhao Hai to perish since he had the capability to undermine their plans.
But now, nobody cared about Zhao Hai. Disabled people weren't worth their attention.
Zhao Hai thought that trouble would come looking for him once he revealed his strength. But instead, the opposite happened. Not only did he avoid trouble, there would no longer be anyone that would come looking for him. This caused somewhat of a surprise to Zhao Hai. However, he took this matter off his mind. Even if people came looking for him, with his present strength, there was no need to be afraid. Whether it be in the Cultivation Realm or the Machine Field, he could already carve his own place.
Not to mention the Machine Field, even the Cultivation Realm had sects being set up by Nascent Soul Experts. These Nascent Soul Experts being called grandmaster wasn't a joke.
After seeing everyone's response, Zhao Hai began paying attention to Dongfang Yu's state. Dongfang Yu had closed up for several days and had yet to come out. Moreover, the last time Zhao Hai saw his second brother, Dongfang Yu was at a critical point in his cultivation. Therefore, Zhao Hai wanted to see how he was doing right now.
Seeing Dongfang Yu's situation through the Space, Zhao Hai began to feel relieved. In the past, Dongfang Yu's face was red and his expression was exhausted. But now, Dongfang Yu had a calm expression. The fire dragon sword had already disappeared from sight. Dongfang Yu's whole person was sitting down and meditating. Upon seeing this, Zhao Hai knew that Dongfang Yu would soon come out.
Since Zhao Hai took the silverback gold-winged bug to the Space and with the presence of Nascent Soul Experts in the base, the bugs stopped their attack. However, the elimination round for the Six Realm Beginner Competition had been pushed back 10 days. This was also within Zhao Hai's expectation, it was normal given what happened.