Had it not been for Benjamin's swift reaction, ensuring everyone safely reached the ground, their fate might've mirrored that of the pilots.Therefore, upon hearing Benjamin's command, all soldiers responded unanimously.Upon witnessing this, Benjamin gave a slight nod of approval.He then scanned the terrain.Truthfully, Benjamin's mission wasn’t merely to accomplish the task at hand.He sought something specific.Having ascertained their position and realizing their objective was not far off, Benjamin once again gave his instructions."Teams one and two, follow me.Team three, hold your ground!""Understood!"Leading two teams, Benjamin ventured deeper into the dense forest.At that moment, in Benjamin's hand, a map emerged.This was the artifact Bahjat Taylor had given him some time ago.However, he wondered why Bahjat hadn't ventured himself to search but instead entrusted him with the mission.Of course, Benjamin didn't have much trust in his father-in-law.From the day Bahjat ga

Venn, slightly taken aback, immediately saluted: "Understood, sir!""Good, you may leave."As Venn's figure retreated, Benjamin's face eased slightly.He hadn't expected so many complications on this mission. The burning of the helicopters had stirred suspicions in him, suspicions which now seemed more valid than ever.By connecting recent events, he felt more convinced of a lurking danger.Relying solely on his soldiers, who were of average combat capabilities, for this treasure hunt, seemed like sending them into the jaws of death.Given the power the serpent-human creatures displayed, it was evident they were no less formidable than a master martial artist.What worried him more were the formidable entities deep inside the cavern, one of which exuded an aura that deeply unsettled him, reminding him of powerful figures he knew.Yet, these were merely speculations.The battle wasn't over, and there might be more lurking threats inside.These serpent-human creatures indeed seemed stra

All was unexpected. Before the shadow could react, the light was upon it.Before it could flee, the phoenix's phantom rejoiced.It transformed into a luminescent streak, merging with the radiant beam.The shadow's visage betrayed fear, not anticipating such a formidable force hidden within Benjamin's consciousness.But now, escape seemed impossible.Thus, before the impending light struck, the shadow roared in defiance."No, I am the supreme Dark Deity, how can I perish so easily here? A..."In the end, a desolate scream echoed, and the shadow's essence vanished entirely.In the void of Benjamin's mind, a floating fireball emerged.Around it was a slightly ethereal apparition of the phoenix."Ah, consider this a twist of fate between us.With this last sliver of my consciousness, I'll awaken you!"These words came from the phoenix.Subsequently, like a flash, it plunged into the fireball, disappearing from sight.All this, Benjamin was oblivious to.Time wore on, and Benjamin was unaw

Their spirits, however, remained undeterred. A profound transformation was taking root within them. Though they might not emulate Venn's instantaneous rise to sagehood, with diligence and time, it wasn't an unattainable dream.In the world of martial arts, not everyone could touch the zenith of sagehood, especially in the military. Unless they were as exceptional as Benjamin or the former captains of the Dragon Guardians, blessed with unparalleled dedication and innate talent.But now, even with just a smidge of the diluted Thousand-Year Mystical Elixir, they were on a transformative journey, a privilege even some from the noble houses might envy.Benjamin's gesture wasn't merely a token of goodwill. He had grander visions: building a formidable battalion loyal only to him, ensuring no power would ever threaten him or use his loved ones as bargaining chips.But these thoughts remained unsaid, unshared. Benjamin believed actions spoke louder. He knew, if he treated his soldiers with re

For a moment, Benjamin's mind brimmed with a deluge of questions. Just then, Andrea descended from upstairs. Yet what caught Benjamin off-guard wasn't her presence, but her changed attire. From her demeanor, he surmised she'd sneakily ventured into her room to try something secretive.But before Benjamin could voice a response, Mr. Aylmer, stifling a cough, hurriedly covered his mouth.“Ahem…”“Father, are you coughing again?”Witnessing Mr. Aylmer's continuous cough, Andrea's stern countenance shifted to one of pure concern. Without hesitation, she rushed to his side, gently patting his back for comfort.“It’s... it’s nothing, my dear. Perhaps the recent weather fluctuations have aggravated an old ailment of mine." Mr. Aylmer managed to say, though his appearance suggested otherwise.Seeing this, Benjamin interjected with a hushed tone: "Sir, perhaps I could escort you to a hospital for a quick check-up? I know quite a few professionals at a nearby military hospital.”“That’s right,