Shortly after the trio ready their things, with some equipping their new gears, and some not so much.
Unlike Carmen and Jeff, who were satisfied with the dropped loot of the Skyrazor Harbinger, Xu Feng frowned upon it.
Though it was mainly because he had better equipment.
He bought quite a few goodies from Blacksmith Fiona, but there was no opportunity to equip them due to his low level.
Now that he reached the level requirement, Xu Feng still hadn't equipped them yet.
And no, it wasn't that he forgot about it, but he felt that it wasn't needed. If he equipped them now, then with the perception of Jeff and Carmen, they would take notice of his change instantly.
By that time, it would simply create a troublesome matter with them questioning or looking at him suspiciously.
'Those with wealth tend to be judged.' Xu Feng thought, preferring to stay humble until it was time for him to show off.
With that in mind, the trio continued to advance steadily, and luckily for them, there was no more random aggression from some monsters.
"Okay, we've arrived at the territory of the Ironhide Behemoth." Jeff paused and explained cautiously.
The Ironhide Behemoth might be a bit inferior when compared to the Skyrazor Harbinger, but that didn't mean it was easier to take down.
After all, the defense of the Ironhide Behemoth was no joke, and its offensive power was technically more fierce and domineering.
Just when Jeff was about to explain a battle plan, Xu Feng raised his hand.
Dumbfounded, Jeff turned to him and asked, "Is there something wrong?"
Carmen was equally confused by his signal, but kept quiet, seemingly waiting for him to talk.
"I'll take the command for the battle this time," he revealed, astonishing Jeff and Carmen. Throughout their journey, Xu Feng had only been supporting in the background silently, offering zero advice or strategy.
It was the same for the Skyrazor Harbinger.
They didn't even know what his plan was when he isolated himself from them and decided to confront the beast head-on.
And although Carmen didn't mention it, she was truly infuriated by his risky action. She merely kept it to herself because everything ended well and she couldn't fault him for the action either.
Had it not been for Xu Feng's sacrificial move, along with a method to resurrect himself, they would have lost their healer and the battle would have been devastating.
Yet now, Xu Feng suddenly wanted to take the lead.
How could they not be surprised?"
"Are you sure about that?" Jeff asked cautiously, ensuring his tone didn't sound too doubtful. As an experienced mercenary, he would naturally want to take the lead and command of the battle, considering it was the norm in every team's battle.
The strongest or more experienced person would usually command the others to maintain an efficient battle or raid.
"Yeah, I'm sure." Xu Feng responded. "I just want to end this battle quickly."
"..."
Although not much was said there, his statement was equivalent to saying Jeff was inadequate when compared to him.
Subconsciously, Jeff turned to Carmen, seemingly looking at her for her response to this. It was as if he was programmed to know that Carmen's words had an effect on Xu Feng.
Sensing Jeff's gaze at her, Carmen took a deep breath before deciding.
"If Feng wants to take the command, then he shall be the commander. I'm fine with it." She calmly said, choosing to trust Xu Feng. Their interaction might not be long, but throughout their time, she knew he was not the type to speak nonsense. Unless it was necessary, he would usually refrain from talking.
"I supposed there's no more problem now, right?" Xu Feng assumed an authoritative tone and glanced at Jeff.
Jeff scratched his head and relented.
"I have no problem with it." He responded and continued, "But if the battle is deemed a failure, I will take over to avoid casualties."
If even Carmen agreed, it was two against one, and the worse outcome would be having to restart if they were to fail. Thus, he rather gave himself a leeway to regain command if the battle was going into disarray.
Not surprised by Jeff's adamant suggestion to take over, Xu Feng readily agreed.
Shortly after, the trio entered the territory base of the Ironhide Behemoth, and their hostile environment heightened tremendously.
"Why do I feel more weary walking here than outside?" Carmen questioned, feeling like a heavy boulder was placed on her back.
"That's because the concentration of mana is very restricted, causing you to feel discomfort." Xu Feng calmly explained.
"You should consume another Stamina Potion to lessen your weariness. We're going to have to move a lot once we encounter the Ironhide Behemoth."
Without hesitation, Carmen quickly retrieved another Stamina Potion and consumed it.
"Do you want one as well, Feng?"
"No, you should keep it to yourself."
"Are you sure? I still have two left if I give you one. We're going to move a lot, so we can't have you remain still like a scarecrow."
Speechless, Xu Feng promptly ignored her and stepped forward. "Jeff, when we begin the battle, do your best to immobilize it rather than deal damage."
"Rest assured, I'll try my best." Jeff nodded, his grip tightening on his battle axe along with his new gloves shining brightly. Unlike Carmen who had turned off the glowing effect, Jeff was proud and loved the effect.
'He really ignored me…' Carmen twitched her brows, confused by Xu Feng's refusal to accept her Stamina Potion.
She merely wanted to repay the favor of him giving her the Superior Uncommon equipment. Yet it was clear that he wanted her to feel indebted and maliciously doing so.
"How hateful," she pursed her lips, finding herself not able to hate him to be fair.
Meanwhile, the trio continued to advance within the lair of the Ironhide Behemoth.
A few minutes later, they were rather astounded by the sight in front of them.
"Damn, did these behemoths copulate for years?" Xu Feng twitched his brows.