Everyone Is A Lord: My Talent Is A Little Too Strong Chapter 2601: 1433: Inside and Outside the Market
Previously on Everyone Is A Lord: My Talent Is A Little Too Strong...
Under the glow of twin half-moons, a massive, deep brown city stood firm in the heart of a sprawling valley, radiating an aura of unshakable strength.
The city gates had already swung wide, offering glimpses of the vibrant, bustling streets hidden within.
Despite the open gates, ripples of Magic Flow Light frequently shimmered across the entrance, indicating an invisible barrier was in effect. Rows of sturdy guards stood in perfect formation, a clear sign that the city maintained rigorous defensive protocols.
This was none other than the Administrator’s Shadow Market. The opening of these gates signaled the official commencement of the advanced market.
The site of the market was Yingming Valley, a location strategically chosen by Leo Ray after discussions with the Administrators. It sat precisely at the junction where the Rainforest Fortress Alliance, the Desert Alliance, and the Flower Demon Territory met.
High above Yingming Valley, a group of figures radiating majestic power appeared as a faint, cold wind swept through the area.
The leader, a muscular humanoid, pulled back his hood to reveal a lion-like visage. His thick, dark golden hair and a mane that wrapped around his neck like a heavy scarf made his appearance exceptionally commanding.
This individual was Loris, the Clan Leader of the Lion-man Clan and the head of the Rainforest Fortress Alliance.
The sound of soft hoofbeats followed as a powerful elite from the Centaur Clan moved to Loris’s side. He gazed down at the grand Shadow Market nestled in the valley with sharp, intense eyes.
This was Thomas, the Centaur Clan Leader and Vice Leader of the Rainforest Fortress Alliance.
As this group of formidable experts emerged, the surrounding space seemed to warp slightly, filled with a dangerous aura of wild hostility.
“Leader, this gathering for the advanced Shadow Market seems incredibly abrupt and rushed. Why did you decide to accept the invitation?”
Thomas, his face obscured by a thick beard, voiced his confusion with a deep frown.
“Naturally, I am aware that there are complexities involved,” Loris replied, his lion-like features twisted with anticipation as he licked his lips. “However, the invitation specifically mentioned that the star attraction is the Tier 6 Divine Weapon I have long coveted! There is even Tier 6 Armor available. The Administrator of our own territory personally verified this and gave a strong recommendation for me to attend.”
“I don’t care who originally owned that Tier 6 Divine Weapon and Tier 6 Armor; I am determined to claim them for myself this time!” Loris declared.
“Furthermore, I recently came into possession of an item of equal value. If the seller understands its true worth, a direct trade for the set might be possible.”
“As for any hidden agendas, they do not concern me. This is a Secret Realm Market equipped with full defenses. Even if the Administrator who issued the invite is rumored to be the least influential, surely no real trouble will arise here.”
A look of mockery crossed Loris’s beastly face as he added, “Besides, even if a conspiracy exists, do you think I would fear them?”
“Haha, the leader’s bravery is truly unmatched.”
A raspy, aged female voice drifted from the back of the group. A small figure floated forward, her withered face highlighted by the silver moonlight. Two pairs of wrinkled, translucent wings flapped slowly, giving her the appearance of a tiny, ancient witch.
This was Elder Susan, the Clan Leader of the Water Elf and an elder of the Rainforest Fortress Alliance.
Susan’s eyes gleamed with a sharp, calculating light as she let out a strange cackle. “The leader has already positioned our 30 most elite Tier 4 Legions in the vicinity. Their strength is equal to a massive force of 300 Tier 3 Legions. Even if a Grand Army marched upon us, we would have nothing to fear. We also have a multitude of Tier 3 Legions on standby, not to mention our secret weapon is primed for action.”
“I still have a bad feeling. We are currently on the verge of war with the forces of the Human Emperor, and the timing of this advanced market is far too convenient. It cannot help but cause suspicion,” Thomas remarked, his tail flicking nervously as his brow furrowed further.
“Vice Leader, are you suggesting that the Human Emperor is the one hosting this Shadow Market? Do you believe those Tier 6 equipments belong to him?”
Loris laughed dismissively, his face full of scorn. “That is preposterous. He is merely a lucky brat who stumbled upon an ancient Secret Treasure. What reason is there to fear him?”
“The leader is absolutely correct,” Elder Susan chimed in, her wrinkled face hardening with malice. “Our primary reason for deploying troops to the border is to face our true rivals, the Desert Alliance, not that insignificant Human Emperor.”
“It would be ideal if the Human Emperor clashed with the Desert Alliance first,” she added. “Moreover, the choice of Yingming Valley for this market is telling. The Desert Alliance was undoubtedly invited as well.”
Thomas remained unconvinced, his expression grim. “Neither side will be easy to deal with. They are certainly massing heavy reinforcements at the border in secret.”