Hebrew's passion for weaponry surpassed that of ordinary men; otherwise, he would never have co-founded the Brom Company with his brother, dedicating themselves to the research and manufacture of advanced arms.
Hebrew said to Xiao Feng, "Though I cannot discern it by sight alone, I can identify the model of this weapon merely by touch—do you believe me?"
Xiao Feng nodded, lifted the slender black case, and offered it to Hebrew with both hands. "Please, feel it for yourself."
Beside them, Kailey watched the two men she cherished find common ground, her heart lightened. She sat quietly, sipping the coffee Lily had brought, observing their conversation.
Hebrew placed his hand upon the sleek black case, feeling its contours. A confident smile soon spread across his face, yet beneath it lay a trace of surprise as he murmured, "It's the 'Blood Demon'!"
Xiao Feng chuckled softly, "You guessed right… You may be surprised to know how I came to possess this Blood Demon sniper rifle."
"Heh, it must be a company oversight that allowed this rifle to slip out," Hebrew mused. "To be honest, the Blood Demon was originally designed for mass production, intended to arm alliance soldiers. But recent developments halted its manufacture."
"Uncle Hebrew," Kailey interjected, "is the Blood Demon currently the most formidable sniper rifle?"
Hebrew chuckled again. "Tell me, child, what makes you think the Blood Demon is so formidable?"
Xiao Feng pondered. "Its sighting system, the bullet's range and power, its weight, and shooting precision are all excellent."
Hebrew nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed, it was meant as a standard-issue weapon. It boasts many strengths, yet none are overwhelmingly exceptional. Do you sense that?"
Xiao Feng readily agreed, "You're right. This rifle can't even pierce the hide of an E-class beast."
Hebrew's brow furrowed in surprise. "You've encountered E-class beasts? The Blood Demon certainly can't slay such creatures."
"No," Xiao Feng replied, "though the Blood Demon falls short against E-class beasts, we have other means. I can now confidently say I am capable of taking on one single-handedly."
Hebrew was taken aback. "To duel an E-class beast solo requires at least Level Five abilities, to my knowledge. What is your power level?"
Xiao Feng shook his head. "I don't know. But with stronger weapons, I believe I can conquer even higher-level beasts."
"Wise words, child. Humanity is inherently fragile, so we must empower ourselves with mightier arms. Fortunately, we share a passion—come, I shall show you my collection."
Xiao Feng smiled warmly, "It would be my honor."
Hebrew led Xiao Feng, Kailey, and Lily via a private elevator to the uppermost floor. Upon exiting, the room's lights illuminated instantly, Hebrew proudly ushering them into his armory.
Xiao Feng's eyes widened in astonishment. The entire floor was adorned with firearms—an overwhelming arsenal numbering in the tens of thousands.
Hebrew observed Xiao Feng's astonishment and explained with satisfaction, "Here lie not only modern weaponry but also many firearms from before the Great Purge. The sheer volume is staggering. Knowing your fondness for sniper rifles, I'll guide you to that section."
Leading the amazed trio to the sniper rifle collection, Hebrew introduced each piece: renowned pre-Purge models like the Barrett, AWP, Remington, alongside every sniper rifle Brom Company has ever produced—hundreds in total.
Casually, Hebrew lifted a sniper rifle, saying, "This rifle is the king of guns—only true warriors can master its formidable power."
Gradually regaining composure, Xiao Feng inquired, "Which is the most powerful sniper rifle here?"
Hebrew laughed heartily. "I knew you'd ask. Come, behold this one."
He led Xiao Feng to a colossal black sniper rifle that instantly captivated him. The weapon was robust and sleek, over two meters in length, with an enormous magazine suggesting rounds exceeding twenty centimeters. Three scopes arranged in a triangular formation adorned the top, the longest scope over half a meter long.
Hebrew proudly declared, "Impressive, isn't it? Its effective range surpasses five kilometers—unprecedented. Such power can effortlessly fell an E-class beast."
Xiao Feng regarded the rifle as if beholding a breathtaking muse, his passion for sniper rifles deepening with every detail.
Cradling the weapon tenderly, he asked, "Uncle Hebrew, what is this rifle called?"
Hebrew took a draw from his cigar and replied, "I prefer its name: The Black Angel."
"The Black Angel—what a fitting name! Uncle Hebrew, I truly adore this rifle. Will you gift it to me?" Xiao Feng asked unabashedly, embracing the rifle and peering through its scopes at the sky beyond the window.
Hebrew chuckled, "Child, you jest. You already have the Blood Demon, which suffices."
"No, no, I require a more powerful weapon. Were it not for the inconvenience of a laser cannon, I would have one by now. This rifle is perfect. Since this is our first meeting, surely you won't be so stingy?"
"No, this is my most treasured sniper rifle…"
"Will you not produce another?" Xiao Feng glanced through the scope at a helicopter approaching in the distance.
"This rifle's craftsmanship is extraordinarily intricate. Only three were ever made. One was stolen, another lies in the hands of a certain devil, and this is the last. I am certain it shall not be yours…"
Xiao Feng smiled wryly, eyes fixed on the approaching helicopter. "Well then, I'll just have to take it by force." Yet, a strange unease stirred within him—something about that helicopter felt distinctly off.