The Importance of Superpowered People and the Purchase of a Defensive Array

At this very moment.

Blue Star, the Great Cave Region.

Gao Linzhi opened his eyes.

He was just now engrossed in reading the system code.

Other transmigrators rely on the tasks issued by their Golden Finger, work hard to complete the tasks, accumulate experience, meet the requirements of the Golden Finger, and then add points to become stronger.

He's currently using a cheat Golden Finger to gain the highest level of access, directly using the Wind Spirit Moon Shadow ability to freely add points to himself and become stronger.

The code analysis work has made further progress.

He had already learned some about the core code structure of the Skyfall Game from the outside.

Now he has obtained even more classified information.

The goal of this game's code is to seize Source Energy.

The way to achieve this is by using the game framework to organize manpower and deploy it to other worlds.

This process of deployment will disrupt the world's original development pattern.

It's like a normal person who would normally live a peaceful and stable life until old age.

But when pathogens get in, they disrupt the body's normal systems.

At this point, it has two possible paths: one is to kill the person directly, hold a feast on the spot, and eat more than 100 kilograms of food.

Of course, there will be more than 99% waste in this process, so it can only eat very little.

Secondly, it transforms into companion bacteria, reconstructing the body's internal balance, just like the flora in the human digestive tract, and has been consumed for over 80 years.

The Game System chose the second path.

It has introduced new elements into the world, restructured the world's development system, and thus continuously extracted the World Source energy.

The Skyfall World was originally just a normal material world, which is why it was able to exist in a parallel universe with Blue Star and Earth.

It was because of the invasion of the Skyfall Game that strange elements were introduced, and it slowly became distorted.

Once the distortion was successful, it was then injected into the players for exploitation and support.

This harvesting is a long-term process, while also curbing the anomaly and preventing it from growing stronger.

After reviewing the code, he understood the current state of the Earth and how it came to be.

The beasts have become demonic, and attacks are frequent.

So it turns out everything is the Game System's fault.

It has absolutely nothing to do with Master Gao.

Master Gao is kind-hearted and can't bear to see poor people.

Let's give them some extra benefits.

Gao Linzhi found the Safe Zone settings in the game code.

They began deploying Safe Zone into the Earth.

If those people allocate resources rationally, this Safe Zone will be the best guarantee.

In this way, symbiotic development can be maintained.

Ultimately, his bottom line was still too high.

Those who follow the dark side wouldn't care about these things.

And at this time...

Zhang Mingzhen, who was a pawn in the game, remained completely unaware of this.

As he walked along East Street, he easily spotted the striking, tall building – "Fragrant Cloud City Auction House".

Upon entering the hall, one is greeted by a spacious and elegant lounge area, where a waiter immediately comes forward to greet them, "Greetings, distinguished guest."

"Today's auction will begin in one hour."

"If you have items to consign for auction, please proceed to the second floor."

"I'm here to see Director Zhang Mingcheng. Is he here?"

The waiter immediately replied respectfully, "The board members are preparing for the auction on the second floor. Please wait there while I inform them."

He could tell at a glance that the person was a spiritualist, so naturally he wouldn't say anything disrespectful.

Zhang Mingzhen then went up to the second floor, where he saw that the space extended downwards in a stepped fashion, with a display stand at the bottom, and the layout was quite similar to an old-fashioned theater.

Before long, Zhang Mingcheng rushed over. "Your Excellency arrived very quickly."

"You must have already been to the Spiritcaster Guild?"

"I didn't expect you to be a third-tier spirit mage. You are truly young and promising."

"Please follow me to the private room on the third floor. The auction catalog will be delivered to the room in advance so you can carefully consider it. We will also do our best to provide comprehensive service."

That's thoughtful.

With nothing else to do, Zhang Mingzhen decided to browse the forum messages while waiting for the auction to begin.

Recently, there has been an increasing discussion on the forum about the Mutation Tier in reality.

The players have clearly noticed the changes in the outside world.

One by one, people began hoarding food, drinking water, oil, and medicine...

In a short time, the prices of basic commodities skyrocketed, becoming two to three times higher than before.

The currency also began to depreciate rapidly...

The reason is simple: it's not that too much was issued, but rather that many wealthy people had previously kept these funds in their homes without allowing them to circulate. Although many wealthy people have high annual consumption, there are still limits to their spending.

Now that danger has arrived, there's no time to worry about anything else.

When a large amount of currency is injected into the market at once, it will naturally cause currency devaluation.

Fortunately, Dragon Han is a major industrial country, and strong demand naturally leads to strong production.

Moreover, there is a lot of inventory.

However, agricultural product prices are high, while industrial product prices remain unchanged.

Many wealthy people have flocked to rural areas to rent land or build underground fortresses in the name of village collectives.

Many more people have chosen to go abroad.

One post, titled "Speculations on the Connection between Real-World Mythical Beasts and the God's Domain," also attracted considerable attention.

Those who replied to the post could be roughly divided into three groups, "Those who actively prepared for the challenge, those who were pessimistic and worried, and those who procrastinated and gave up."

It's just like the various reactions of people when war breaks out.

Some people actively prepared for battle, while others hesitated, only knowing how to wait for the unknown, not knowing what to do, and in the end, they were often killed.

Some people, while fleeing, spread pessimistic and surrender-like sentiments.

"This is clearly a sign of the end of the world! Monsters from the God's Domain have appeared; is there any safe place left in the world?"

What's so scary about Warcraft?

"I've slaughtered countless monsters in the God's Domain! I kill every single one that comes my way, I'm already a superhuman!" someone said disdainfully.

"It seems that only by becoming a superhuman can I maintain basic peace of mind; otherwise, I can't feel at ease."

"The monster in the news looks a lot like the one on Spider Mountain."

"Our team investigated this; could it be that the game not only makes people stronger, but also affects real-world animals?"

"Very likely."

"These days, people who own pets at home must have noticed a difference, right? I've heard there have been several incidents of pets injuring their owners."

"My dog Ahuang is very well-behaved and can even guard the house. The other day, he even killed a wild wolf that broke in."

"Where do people live upstairs? How come there are wolves roaming around? This place is certainly dangerous."

"Our home is on the grassland in the suburbs. Nowadays, many wild animals are appearing in the city, and they no longer seem afraid of people."

"It's truly unsettling not to have someone with superpowers in the family."

"In short, we must focus on leveling up as soon as possible, becoming a power user, or further enhancing our strength in order to cope with this rapidly changing world."

Browsing through the various comments on the forum, Zhang Mingzhen secretly analyzed the current situation.

"It seems the influence of the God's Domain extends beyond the players; all life is undergoing Mutation Tier."

"I wonder how strong those monsters are in reality, and whether the official weapons will still be effective?"

Just then, the sound of the auction starting came from downstairs.

Before anyone knew it, the auction hall was already packed, and activity was also starting to break out in the other rooms on the third floor.

A host stepped onto the stage and announced loudly, "Welcome, distinguished guests, to Fragrant Cloud Auction House!"

"This month's auction begins immediately; may everyone find their desired treasures."

"Without further ado, let's move on to the first item—"

As a VIP, the auction house had already sent a detailed list of items to his room so he could preview the items he needed.

After scanning the area, Zhang Mingzhen realized that this place truly lived up to its reputation as a source of pride for Fragrant Cloud City. The items in this major auction were indeed of exceptional quality. He wondered what the smaller auctions on ordinary days were like.

Several items in the catalog caught his attention:

"Mistshadow Set: Includes mask, top, bottoms, gloves, boots, and belt."

"Effect: Reduces visibility, making it easier to hide."

"Physical Defense 120, Spell Resistance 120, agility increased by 35."

"Lure Potion: Using it on the target increases the success rate of taming."

"Warcraft Experience Pill: A pill that allows Warcraft to grow rapidly. After consumption, they will gain experience and accelerate Warcraft development."

"Defense Array: A special shield developed by the Spiritcaster Guild. Once deployed, it can cover an area of three kilometers in radius. It requires Spirit Stone to maintain its energy during operation."

The "Mistshadow Set" was the first outfit he had ever seen with additional attributes, and it could also enhance the wearer's abilities, making it highly practical.

Warcraft Experience Pill and pet-attracting potions are more important to players, and if he has extra Gold Coin later, he might consider buying them.

What caught his attention most was the defensive magic array—if he could bring this into reality, his safety in the real world would be further guaranteed.

After all, each time you enter the game, your body is still in the real world, and your life will be threatened if you encounter Warcraft attack or other accident.

As for Spirit Stone, he has never obtained any in the game and does not know how to acquire them.

Could this be something from the cultivation world, or is it an invention of the Spiritcaster Guild?

It seems I'll have to find an opportunity to inquire about it.

The auction was still ongoing, and the Mistshadow Set soon appeared.

"Mistshadow Set, a full-body armor set that increases defense and speed, and reduces the attention of wild Warcraft. Starting bid: 20 Gold Coin!"

The starting price of a single garment was twenty gold coins, which surprised Zhang Mingzhen somewhat, but the benefits of the attribute bonuses were undeniable.

So he acted decisively.

"25!"

"30!"

Fortunately, not many people needed this set of equipment, and players had not yet entered Fragrant Cloud City, so he got a good deal and finally bought it for fifty Gold Coin.

Next up were pet Experience Pill and pet attractants; to be on the safe side, Zhang Mingzhen didn't bid.

According to Zhang Mingcheng, both items will appear in the daily auctions and can be brought back at any time in the future.

His vulture king egg was auctioned off for 150 Gold Coin.

It seems that players will also need to Demon Transformation to protect themselves, and in the future, players who lack suitable pets will be able to find what they need through the auction house.

Even pet growth experience can be purchased, demonstrating that with enough Gold Coin, one can obtain everything needed at the auction house.

Finally, it was time to start the defensive magic circle.

As expected, the starting price was very high.

"The starting price is 150 gold. As you all know, this item is very important; it takes us half a year to get one."

"I won't say anything more."

It seems that even in Fragrant Cloud City, this kind of formation is no ordinary thing.

Zhang Mingzhen currently had a total of three hundred gold Gold Coin, including the money he received from selling the pet egg.

A defensive formation starting at 150 gold; I wonder if 300 would be enough.

Soon, when the NPCs had bid up to 280 gold, it was no longer possible for Zhang Mingzhen to buy it.

It will definitely break 300.

He had no choice but to find Zhang Mingcheng and ask how he could acquire the defensive formation.

"Defensive magic arrays typically sell for around 450 gold."

"If you're willing to pay 300, I can personally lend you 150 gold, on the condition that you help our guild complete a task—of course, within your capabilities."

Seeing that the price had soared to three hundred, Zhang Mingzhen no longer hesitated. "Okay, I agree."

"350!"

"380!"

As expected of someone who has spent many years in the auction house, Zhang Mingcheng has an extremely accurate judgment of the value of items.

In the end, he really did spend 450 gold coins to purchase the defensive formation, and Zhang Mingzhen's savings were completely depleted.

They may appear wealthy, but in reality, they are insignificant compared to true substance.

His name disappeared from the wealth list instantly, and soon some observant players noticed this change.

"Look at the leaderboard! The Chongxing player Chongxing has actually fallen from his pedestal of wealth!"

"Where is he? He's still at the top of the rankings, number one in both combat power and level, and the equipment rankings are full of top players."

"Seriously! He's no longer on the wealth list! Did the big shot go on a spending spree?"

"Is the cost of living in the main city really that high? Can we country folk even afford to go in...?"

"Congratulations to Big Gold Tooth on taking the top spot on the wealth list! The perennial Second Brother has finally turned the tables!"

"Don't try to sow discord between me and the Great God. My greatest respect is for Chongxing Big Gold Tooth."

But I'm really curious about what this expert bought, since they couldn't even crack the top ten.

"The more it's like this, the more I yearn for Fragrant Cloud City! I really want to go there and spend money! I'm going to be fully armed with Gold Coin!"

"You can't even pull out a few Silver Coins, yet you're dreaming of Gold Coin? Starting today, I'll start trading and making money!"

After successfully obtaining the defensive formation and the set of equipment, Zhang Mingzhen asked Zhang Mingcheng what tasks he needed to complete.

"The matter is related to the mines in the Fragrant Cloud City."

"There is a high-grade mine outside the city, from which the Mystic Spirit Stone is the main raw material for refining Spirit Stone. Many facilities in the city rely on Spirit Stone to operate."

"Normally, the mines are overseen by several major powers within the city on a rotating basis, changing every three months."

"It just so happens that our Fragrant Cloud Auction House is in charge of the North Mountain Mine during this period."

"But recently, accidents have been occurring frequently at the mine, with many miners disappearing without a trace, and adventurers sent to investigate also never returning."

"We suspect... that a mineral-devouring beast has appeared."

"The Ore-Eating Beast is a fourth-tier Warcraft that usually dwells deep within mineral veins without a fixed lair. Its most troublesome feature is its ability to traverse rocky terrain, making it elusive. In addition, it carries a potent poison that causes immediate decay upon contact."

"Instead of looking for someone else, I'd like to ask you for help."

"I think it's well worth settling this matter for only one hundred and fifty Gold Coin; everything now depends on your esteemed presence."

"No problem, after this matter is over, our accounts will be even."

Upon hearing about the clues to the Spirit Stone, Zhang Mingzhen immediately decided to head to the mine.

He was short of money at the moment, and if he wanted to activate the defensive formation, he would need to prepare some Spirit Stone.

This commission came at just the right time.

After bidding Zhang Mingcheng, he headed towards the North Mountain.

The North Mountain Mine of Xiangyun City is one of the city's major pillar industries. A large number of spirit stones are refined from the ore here. The defense is directly dispatched by the city lord's mansion and is quite strict.

"Halt! Who goes there?" As soon as Zhang Mingzhen entered the mining area, the guards blocked his way with their halberds.

"Entrusted by Fragrant Cloud Auction House, I have come to handle the unusual situation at the mine."

"This is proof."

After verifying the token, the guard allowed them to pass.

Due to recent frequent accidents, mining operations have been suspended, and the cave is empty and deserted, with only a deep passageway extending forward.

Zhang Mingzhen walked deeper into the area, where the light gradually dimmed.

Deeper inside, only the outer garments, tools, and bloodstains left behind by the miners were scattered on the ground, clearly indicating that no one had come to clean up afterward.

As he was exploring, a dark shadow suddenly pounced from the shadows! The cave was narrow, and he couldn't dodge in time; a huge damage number appeared on his body.

Having struck successfully, the dark figure vanished into the rock face in an instant, disappearing without a trace.

Throughout the entire ordeal, its appearance and method of escape remained unclear—it must be the Warcraft the mission was referring to.

If Zhang Mingzhen high HP, he would have been dead long ago.

A series of continuous damage messages popped up, and the status bar displayed "Poisoned".

Zhang Mingzhen tried to heal himself, but his health continued to drop until he took a bottle of high-grade Poisons, which finally stopped the bleeding.

After the attack, silence returned to the surroundings.

After waiting for a while, the Warcraft still did not reappear.