Chapter 427 May We Taste Victory
Villain Ch 427. May We Taste Victory
Meanwhile, Liam and Darren found themselves wrestling with the same nagging doubts. These doubts weren't just reserved for Sophia but extended to each other as well. They shared a mutual sense of unease, a growing suspicion that they were being played. However, neither of them was willing to voice these doubts. It was a topic they preferred to avoid altogether. Their resolve had crystallized, and they had decided that any interactions with Sophia would be kept to a minimum. Her once alluring prize now seemed more like a curse, a tether they wanted to break free from. The video that had driven them down this path felt more like a punishment for their naivety.
On the other hand, Sophia seemed preoccupied with scanning the sea of players around her. Her eyes darted from one guild to another, searching for any sign of Allen or the Shadow Syndicate guild, the guild to which Allen belonged. A notable absence of leadership or official titles within the guild suggested that Allen was merely a member. Sophia contemplated the possibility of ingratiating herself with the guild's leaders or officials, believing that this might serve as a means to get closer to Allen, who remained her elusive target.
Sophia found herself in an unfamiliar territory of obsession and desperation. This was uncharted territory for her, and it scared her. She had never gone to such lengths for anyone, especially not for a man. Yet, her relentless pursuit of Allen was driven by an irrational compulsion. It was a battle of ego and pride that pushed her beyond her limits. Throughout her life, she had never encountered rejection, and no man had ever dared to resist her charms. That's why she couldn't fathom Allen's refusal. It wasn't just about his rejection; it was about the fact that she had once held him in her grasp, only to cast him aside like discarded refuse.
Sophia had meticulously studied Allen, understanding his weaknesses and strengths, and believed she knew how to control him. So, in her mind, if she wanted Allen back, he should have returned willingly. It was akin to a master who had callously abandoned a loyal dog and now wanted it back. In her view, Allen should have been ecstatic to be reunited with his master. But instead, Allen had transformed into a wolf, leading his own pack, and he no longer needed her. It was this transformation that fueled Sophia's desire for him even more. She was drawn to the challenge of regaining control over him, of bending him to her will once more.
Sophia's search for Allen and the Shadow Syndicate guild members turned up empty. Frustration began to creep into her voice as she addressed the group.
"Why don't I see any Shadow Syndicate guild members here?" Sophia inquired, her eyes scanning the surroundings. She was clearly on the lookout for Allen.
Elio, fully aware of what Sophia was really seeking, responded, "It seems like it's a new guild. They might not have been able to participate in this event."
Gilbert chimed in, having done his own investigation about the guild since their encounter at the Black Castle's altar. "That guild doesn't seem to have many members either. There's hardly any information about them in the gaming forum, which is typical for small or new guilds."
Sophia couldn't hide her disappointment. "Ah, what a shame," she muttered.
"Just focus on the war, okay?" Elio said, but the words felt hollow as they left his mouth.
Sophia simply nodded in response to Elio's statement, but her mind was still preoccupied with her own thoughts.
Elio turned his attention to the rest of the group, his voice firm and commanding. "Now, get into your positions and remember your duties," he instructed, knowing that the time for battle was fast approaching.
The members of Elio's guild nodded in unison, their faces determined and focused as they moved to take their positions for the upcoming battle. The ranged attackers, armed with bows and staff, ascended the towers and manned the city walls, their eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of the approaching enemy.
Elio, along with the guild's tank, joined the ranks of knights and paladins who were preparing for the battle. These formidable warriors were mounted on majestic steeds, their armor gleaming in the fading daylight. The knights carried massive lances, swords, and shields, while the paladins wielded holy swords and radiant shields. Together, they formed a formidable frontline that was ready to defend Ront City with their lives.
Elio, positioned in the front row, exuded a commanding presence. His role as a guild leader and the leader of the tank players was evident in the way he carried himself. He looked over his fellow knights and paladins, giving them a reassuring nod as they prepared for the impending clash with the enemy.
With a determined expression, Elio accessed his inventory screen and retrieved a unique item—a mount crystal specifically designed for battle. He held it firmly in his hand, his fingers tightly gripping the crystalline object. As he exerted pressure, the crystal began to crack and shatter, releasing a brilliant burst of light.
From the shards of the crystal emerged a magnificent and fearsome creature—a colossal battle bear with lustrous white fur and thick, impenetrable armor. The bear's muscles bulged with power, and its stature exuded strength and resilience. It was a formidable beast, a max-level mount for his level specially acquired for this critical battle. This particular mount had gained popularity in the item mall and had been released that very morning, making it a sought-after asset for the upcoming war.
An announcement appeared on top of the players' screens.
[The war event will start soon. The Devil Emperor and his subordinates will attack the city of Ront. The event will end in 2 hours.]
Elio mounted the battle bear, ready to lead the tanks into battle atop this majestic and powerful steed. His eyes were fixed on the gate.
"Tonight, may we taste victory," he prayed.