Chapter 141: Rice’s Predicament

Ivy glanced at Xiao Feng's earnest expression and couldn't help but smile softly. "Xiao Feng, what is it that you truly desire? What is your ultimate goal?"

Xiao Feng returned her smile with calm composure, then took the pencil in his hand and drew a large, encompassing circle on the map before him—encompassing dozens of cities within its bounds. "The first step is to seize control of these cities."

Ivy and Alice leaned over the map, staring at the vast circle that nearly covered the entire expanse. Both exchanged stunned glances, disbelief mingled with awe.

As the afternoon waned toward dusk, the second wave of transport aircraft finally arrived—scarred with bullet holes and bearing signs of fierce combat. The number of helicopters was noticeably fewer than before.

Xiao Feng approached the transport captain, inquiring sharply, "What happened to you all?"

The captain's face clouded with displeasure. "We were intercepted by the Alliance's fighter jets and engaged in battle. Fortunately, we had fighter escorts; otherwise, our losses would have been severe. It's clear they've discovered we're transporting arms here. You must expedite the construction of your air defense system immediately!"

Xiao Feng nodded gravely. "Understood. Looks like tonight's going to be a sleepless one…" He then sought out Brada to brief him on the situation.

Brada chuckled reassuringly. "Don't worry. Tonight, we'll coordinate with Dr. Mark and work through the night to complete the defense system."

"Good. The sooner, the better…" Xiao Feng glanced at the darkening sky and queried Mark, "Why haven't Rice and the others returned yet?"

Brada scratched his head in perplexity. "I'm not sure. Maybe they ran into some trouble?"

"If they're intercepted again by the Alliance troops, that would be disastrous!"

"Not necessarily. They only ventured into smaller protected zones, which barely have any Alliance soldiers stationed. Besides, Rice is a Level 3 psychic—ordinary soldiers pose no threat to him. Something else must have happened."

Xiao Feng nodded thoughtfully. "Alright, unload the missiles first. I'll ask Mark if he can locate Rice and the team. By the way, where exactly did Rice go?"

"Hmm, probably the 57th Protected Zone, right?"

"The 57th? Why would Rice choose that area? It's swarming with magical beasts…" Xiao Feng muttered anxiously, hastening to find Mark.

After explaining the situation, Mark smiled reassuringly. "Don't worry. I'll show you what I can find, though visibility tonight may limit our chances…"

Mark pulled up a digital map, zooming into the 57th Protected Zone. Using some mysterious method, he swiftly located the military truck Rice and his team were driving.

The truck was parked inside the zone. As Mark zoomed in further, Xiao Feng's heart sank at the unexpected sight: Rice and several mercenaries were bound and restrained.

Observing Rice's expression, Xiao Feng understood why they hadn't returned and furrowed his brow deeply. He had no idea how Rice had been captured, but as a Level 3 psychic, only someone of at least Level 4 or higher could have subdued him.

"I must find out what happened and rescue Rice at all costs!" Resolute, Xiao Feng instructed Mark to ensure the missile defenses were fully established tonight, then turned and departed immediately.

As he walked, his mind raced. He lacked the confidence to confront this alone, so he sought out Rush and recounted the situation. Rush nodded in agreement. "It's night now; the Alliance won't act rashly. I'll accompany you. After all, the boss ordered me to ensure your safety."

The two packed quickly. Xiao Feng shouldered his Black Angel rifle and alloy combat knife, donned armor, and together they drove a jeep out of the city toward the 57th Protected Zone.

Their helmets were equipped with night-vision goggles, allowing them to navigate the dark with ease. Xiao Feng focused intently on driving while Rush scanned their surroundings. Whenever a magical beast approached, Rush effortlessly obliterated it with a surge of psychic power.

After three hours on the road, they reached the perimeter of the 57th Protected Zone.

The massive gates were locked tight, two spotlights sweeping over their jeep. Xiao Feng whispered, "Take them out…"

With a faint chuckle, Rush unleashed a psychic pulse, instantly rendering the Alliance soldiers unconscious before they could react.

Xiao Feng exited the vehicle, sprinted to the gate, and leapt high into the air.

Rush grinned, gave a running start, and jumped as well, though not as high. A burst of psychic force surged from beneath his feet, propelling him upward to vault over the gate.

Xiao Feng glanced at Rush, and together they advanced toward Rice's truck. By now, the protected zone was largely silent, save for a small tavern still glowing with light.

At the barracks entrance, Xiao Feng spotted Rice's truck. Without a word, he drew his alloy combat knife and strode inside.

To Rush, dealing with these Alliance soldiers was like swatting away ants—utterly effortless. Calm and unperturbed, he followed closely.

Suddenly, a soldier emerged hurriedly from a nearby room, trousers half-falling, staring dumbfounded at the two strangers in peculiar gear. Xiao Feng shot him a cold glance before swiftly closing the distance and delivering a brutal kick.

The soldier shouted in alarm, "What are you doing here?!"