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Chapter 264: Tempestuous Speed

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

Everybody assembled on the training ground. Qiu Si surveyed the bunch of youngsters in front of him emotionlessly. They had indeed demonstrated their grit in taking grueling training. Their futures were bright and unlimited, but for now his role was to pile on the rigor and subject them to all kinds of mental and physical stress.

"You have all developed some familiarity with the mecha. We will now test the fruits of your training. One thousand-meter race, while defending against interference."

The terrain in front of them had been constructed full of sand pits. Within the thousand meters, snipers had been positioned on the left and right. They had to break through under the two marksmen's interference.

In Qiu Si's words, this training was a breeze. In the actual battlefield, no one would tell you that there were two snipers.

The two training venues began at the same time – this was also a contest. Whether by design or coincidence, Carl was matched up against Masasi. Under such circumstances, team members were definitely pleasantly surprised and would work harder.

This was a test of mecha maneuverability and reaction time. Each sniper would only fire once. A hit meant failure.

Masasi and Carl were both skilled. Their Bata Type Vs growled loudly and burst forward in the same beat as the starting gun. The desert training was treacherous with uneven ground. At the same time that one was accelerating, one had to be careful of one's footing, all while reserving some spare power.

Both mech warriors were advancing at a rapid pace when a gunshot rang out.

Both instinctively engaged in evasive maneuvers. However, it was but one gunshot meant for one target. This was also a test of judgment.

Whoever had ducked meaninglessly had squandered their opportunity to further the lead.

But not many people could judge that accurately, and Masasi and Carl both did well, dodging the sniper fire and arriving at their goal.

Masasi, 4 minutes 20 seconds.

Carl, 4 minutes 35 seconds.

Both were equally skilled, but when the sniper had attacked Carl, Masasi had made the correct call not to dodge and had pulled away with the lead.

This was a demonstration of judgmental skill! Not luck. If he had made the wrong choice, he would definitely have gotten hit and disqualified.

Masasi and Carl had effectively been guinea pigs for the rest.

To the students, they were unafraid of face-to-face battles, but to fall to a cold gun was an unsatisfying end.

But like it or not, they had to adapt to it. The previous position of the snipers was not relevant. Within the range, they could fire at any time.

Everyone went up one after the other. On the whole, the Moon's competitors performed the best, with the Eight Stars' timings all slightly above 4 minutes. They boasted consistently higher averages, while other average people clocked in at 5 minutes and above. There were some close moments with the sniper fire, but basically everyone had made it through. No one had received a direct hit, and this was expected. After having been preemptively warned of snipers, to take a hit meant one might as well pack up and head home.

Raston's time was average, at 4 minutes and 5 seconds. In light of his previous eligibility as a leader, this time was slightly poorer than expected. Speed contests were not his strong point. However, his performance throughout was stable, and his decision-making had been on-point.

Taros flexed his speed abilities and was the first to break the four minute mark, clocking in at a dominating 3 minutes 40 seconds. The Bata Type V mech was like a ghost in the wind under his steering. Even under the sunlight, it moved with a ghastly manner. When dodging the attack, he was sure and composed, clearing it without problems.

Like it or not, this was Taros' forte.

After Taros crossed the finish line, he received quite a few cheers. In the military, ability spoke louder than pretty words.

Lear and Wang Zheng had been put to the back. Evidently, the leadership contest was reserved for last.

It was Achilles' turn. Everyone watched with anticipation. He had led the pack all the while. Although he had to shoulder the responsibility of the brawl, it did not stop him from displaying his strength and character.

One had to ride it to know if it was a mule or horse after all. They wanted to see what was so special about the Sun God.

The contest had started!

The Bata Type V's engine roared. Competing against him was Lin Ruofeng, who clearly felt the pressure. He snuck a glance at Achilles beside him, who stood still as a mountain.

On the starting gun, Lin Ruofeng aggressively moved, the Bata leaping forward like the wind. His take-off speed was fast!

But in that instant, the Bata mech beside him was already gone with the wind. Achilles had left him in the dust.

God!

What unbelievable speed!

Achilles' Bata Type V mech was advancing at a blistering pace when the gunshots rang out together.

… Both gunshots had been aimed at Achilles. This guy was just too dangerous.

Under normal circumstances, each person was allocated one shot. If one judged that way, Achilles would be finished. This would rock the boat drastically and cause him to lose face no matter the reason.

But the Bata Type V made no move to evade. As if time had frozen, the mech unbelievably put on a burst of speed, leaping forward and evading both shots. It roared forward, the desert terrain not even hindering Achilles' movements in the slightest.

As though running over flat ground, he cleared the course at 2 minutes 59 seconds. Right as he crossed the finish line, Achilles had already taken his hands off the controls, timing it perfectly.

Behind him, Lin Ruofeng was laboriously moving forward. His pace had been thrown off horribly by Achilles. Against someone of similar ability, he could pace himself thus, but against Achilles, to attempt to follow his pace only meant trouble.

Lin Ruofeng was almost hit by sniper fire as well and finally finished at 4 minutes 50 seconds, clearly below his usual standard.

Everyone's jaw had dropped. What kind of monster was this???

Would they really have to go up against such a person?

The Moon people did not cheer, they had smug smiles on their faces. This was Achilles, the Moon people's leader. Without such absolute power, how else could one stand as the leader of these choosy Moon people?

Achilles' time on such a terrain was already heaven-defying. The little adjustment of the snipers had been noted by everyone, but to a pro, an additional shot meant nothing.

As Achilles returned to the group, many of them looked upon him with newfound respect. At first, they thought that Achilles was beatable, but now they saw it was but wishful thinking.

Lear and Wang Zheng had to demonstrate some skills, or they would risk their leadership being in name only. In IG qualifications, a leader would never resign themselves to fate. One had to possess sufficient power to earn the respect of the members, or else they would run a disparate team with subpar results.

Lie Xin was up. Achilles had applied enormous pressure on everybody, but Lie Xin was unconcerned. In terms of individual ability, Achilles was stronger than she was. This had long been established in Academy X.

Lie Xin finished at 3 minutes 15 seconds, faster than Taros, and establishing her own ability. Her own advancement speed was just behind Achilles', and she did not mind. The Lie family's most terrifying skills were not on the race track.

Because of the fight, the two designated leaders had been punished. However, in this qualification, a simple contest would reveal all. If either Lear or Wang Zheng could not produce results, it would be a joke, and they would not be able to live up to the mantle of leader. It would be a meaningless title.

In the end, the military would not let those who lacked ability lead a team in IG. That would be tantamount to suicide.

"Next round, Zhang Shan, Luo Fei!"

Fatty Luo Fei gave a cheeky grin as he climbed into the mech. Everybody hated him. Taunts were tolerated, but to be able to provoke Atos into brooding silence was a whole new level of provocation.

Lear merely looked at Luo Fei and nodded.

It was time for Luo Fei to demonstrate his true strength.

Zhang Shan knew that the contest was about to begin. It was just a fatty. It was time to show this bunch of louts the fruits of his summer holiday training.

Both mecha readied themselves. Because many were reeling from Achilles and Lie Xin's strong performances, the level of anticipation for these two was not high. Many were already speculating about Lear's strength and whether Wang Zheng was qualified to pose like he did.

A weakling who took up the spot of probationary leader would be grilled on the rack. No one wished for this to happen to themselves.

Everyone was observing Wang Zheng as well. On the surface he did seem to play the part and was calm.

Once a veteran showed their hand, everyone would immediately recognize their skill. However wretched Fatty was, if he was capable, it was a different matter entirely.

Both mecha leapt forward wildly at an astonishing speed. Fatty took the lead in an instant. By their pace, they were both of high caliber. Fatty, especially, controlled his mech with decisive fury and was clearly at ease in anticipation of the snipers' fire.

Everyone was a little taken aback by their speed. From the first phase scores, these two had poor foundations, but they seemed like completely different people here.

Wang Zheng and Lear were both clear that Ability X users' capabilities definitely outstripped normal people. Some people were born to be warriors, just in different fashions.

Zhang Shan and Luo Fei were definitely polar opposites. One was brash and extroverted, the other wily and reserved. But in this competition, both brought their full strength to bear.

Neither sniper had fired. This, in fact, gave both racers pressure, as they did not dare to go all out.

The onlookers checked the time. Not yet 4 minutes. This speed was bewildering. It was expected for Luo Fei to keep a few tricks up his sleeve, but when did Zhang Shan become so strong as well?

They were almost at the finish line when the snipers made their move, the shots cracking out in the air.

Luo Fei seemed to be unaffected, keeping his mech at the original pace… The attack had missed!

Damn, what kind of lousy shot was this, to miss such a target???

Luo Fei's speed had not changed and he had made no movement, which meant it had been the sniper's error.

But Achilles and the rest had a glint in their eyes. This was the reason why Atos had unknowingly been baited.

"This fatty has the ability to stealth," Milo said with interest.

For the sniper to target him, the sniper needed to focus all his concentration to lock in on the target. But the target itself was prone to misperception. You thought you had aimed accurately, but a slight error for a sniper meant a huge miss.

Zhang Shan was not the type to back down either. With a huge bellow, he rushed forward, forcing an increase in pace and dodging the first shot. But the second sniper now fired. For them to be assigned as snipers and miss both shots would be too embarrassing.

Chapter 265: Split Second!

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

Zhang Shan's move had pushed himself to the limit. His forced movement had reduced his speed, and although he drew ahead for a moment, Fatty soon overtook him. The hurdle of sniper fire had been crossed, and he needed but to reserve a little energy for contingencies.

The sniper took aim at Zhang Shan's position. They must've really been taking the snipers lightly if they thought such a maneuver could avoid the attack.

This shot was a sure hit!

Besides the sniper, the onlookers had picked up on this as well. Rash action without consideration for the next step was a death sentence.

Zhang Shan was about to become the first failure.

Lie Xin's gaze flicked over to Wang Zheng. This way why she had been adamant about leaving Zhang Shan behind. Conceited and brash and without much competence. To die alone was no loss, but in a pinch, such a person could drag the whole team down to their deaths.

At this time, a scene unfolded that left everybody stunned.

The shot… had missed!

Everybody felt like their eyes were deceiving them. They rubbed their eyes. Zhang Shan's mech was still flying forward, having overtaken Luo Fei.

3 minutes 51 seconds.

Everyone's mouths were agape. This was Ares College's Mountain Maiden?

Damn, everything was rapidly devolving now.

"Hey, did my eyes play tricks? It seemed like his mech moved forward in an instant."

"You saw it too? Damn, I thought I saw wrongly."

"My goodness, for real? Displacement?"

The others looked towards Achilles and his followers, full of suspicion. Achilles, too, was reeling. To think that such an Ability X user would materialize on Earth.

"Interesting. Displacement Ability X, and to be able to move the mech as well. Somebody worth reckoning with has appeared on Earth."

Achilles' calm features were uncharacteristically creased with a bemused smile.

Displacement???

The entire crowd broke out into discussion. Even Qiu Si immediately took notice. Displacement ability was definitely a first-class Ability X. Due to this ability alone, he could have been assigned special grooming by the military.

Zhang Shan rushed past the point with a jaunty wave. Ha! That would show them. This was the true power of Brother Shan.

Now no one would dare to call him 'Mountain Maiden'.

"That was cool, Mountain Maiden!"

Yuan Ye and the rest cheered from afar, gesturing enthusiastically.

No wonder Zhang Shan had been so cocky. His ability was so cool!

Luo Fei's timing of 3 minutes and 54 seconds was also an excellent result, but it could only play second fiddle to Zhang Shan's Displacement. Regardless, Fatty was still all smiles.

"Damn me, this ability is too awesome. The future poster boy of the military!" Fatty said enviously.

Zhang Shan laughed loudly. "Fatty, you can consider supporting us. Of course, it depends on Wang Zheng's approval."

"Looks like Friend Wang Zheng isn't as weak as we thought." Raston laughed. His temperament was similar to Wang Zheng's. Even though they were not in the same camp, he did not wish to become enemies.

"A tad unexpected. Displacement does expend a lot of energy."

"I'm starting to regret not coming to IG earlier. There are so many interesting people here, although that fatty is the most dangerous snake." Lie Guang gestured.

"This is just the beginning. Testing one's basics and battling are totally different. This is looking good too, and it seems like Wang Zheng is hungry for it as well."

Lie Xin stared at Wang Zheng. A pretty boy like you taking the lead? Prove yourself first!

The second phase was indeed the domain of Ability X users, but Dark Horse Zhang Shan had shocked everyone!

Many abilities had their own limitations. For example, Stocker's underwater breathing ability was useless in certain environments, but Zhang Shan's had a high usability and was cool to boot.

Suddenly, many people realized that Ares College was a force to be reckoned with after all.

The next race between Meng Tian and Zhang Runan saw an average performance. This type of race was not their forte, and they both clocked in at 4 minutes.

Nobody could be good at everything unless you were Achilles or Lie Xin.

The highlight was about to start. It was time for Wang Zheng and Lear to race.

These two untested leaders now had to prove themselves.

Even if they could not beat Achilles' timing, they could not be too far off either.

As they were climbing into their mecha, Lear suddenly said, "Wang Zheng, actually, I've treated you as a worthy opponent from the start."

Wang Zheng smiled but did not reply. Sometimes actions spoke louder than words. During the first phase, Wang Zheng had not spared much thought regarding the leader positions. He just wanted to go to Aslan and also pit himself against all kinds of strong opponents, although things were not playing out exactly as he envisioned.

To them, IG was a battlefield. You either improved or were left behind. Rather than leave one's fate up to others, why not take control of one's own destiny? This leader role… he was interested in it!

"Come on, Wang Zheng! Clean 'im up!" Zhang Shan shouted without care, unheeding of what others thought of him.

Meng Tian and Zhang Runan exchanged glances. Nobody actually knew Wang Zheng's true capabilities. Whenever something cropped up, he settled it without too much difficulty. The incident with the quicksand had been the only time he had shown his true strength. To be perfectly honest, the sight had blown them away.

But how were his basics?

The two Bata Type Vs readied themselves.

The starting gun roared!

Wang Zheng and Lear's Bata Type V mecha burst forth together, bearing down the course like a hurricane. Their speed bewildered the eye. Their unstoppable rush was equal to Achilles' speed.

It had been a while since they had graduated from Academy X. In these three days, Lear had always been unwilling to clash head on, due to his preference to stay low-profile. As a result, Achilles and Lie Xin had been lulled into a false sense of security.

But this was the time to assert his dominance. Perennially keeping his head down was stifling, and that was not Lear's intention.

What he did not expect was that Wang Zheng would actually keep up with his pace!

Both mecha stormed down the lane at a frightening pace. Even the snipers were aghast. What manner of monsters were these?

But after blanking out for a few seconds, they recovered and locked onto their targets, waiting for their chance. Against opponents of this caliber, they had to attack consecutively.

Lear knew that Wang Zheng had grit. He had sensed it in him at the networking event. Although it was subdued then, he felt it in full force now.

Lear's Bata Type V mecha creaked, straining from the torque. The mecha was already rushing forward at full power, but its speed continued to increase… It seemed as though it would approach its speed limit soon.

It was about to break Achilles' speed record!

Suddenly in a flash, Lear glimpsed a shadow dart in front of him. Wang Zheng was actually ahead of him!

In this instant, the snipers' guns roared out, firing at both of them simultaneously. When one's speed was at a maximum, that was also the time when it was hardest to evade.

But the two youths had more in store.

As though they were reflections, both made a quick stutter step. With a minimal toll on their speed, they both evaded the sniper fire. At their terrifying speeds, the slightest mistake would have tripped them, a testament to their flawless speed control.

They were really playing with fire!

But both bullets thudded into the sand with a puff of black smoke, while the two mecha whistled past without heed, as though the shots were not even a concern. Their states of mind were undisturbed and their movements were unaffected.

Whoosh!

Both mecha arrived at the end point neck and neck in a spray of golden sand. Their forward momentum had been killed at the perfect instant. Such sublime control spoke of motor coordination that left one gasping in amazement!

Lear, 2 minutes 56 seconds!

He had beaten Achilles!

But Lear had a hint of dissatisfaction on his features, because Wang Zheng had beaten him by a sliver.

2 minutes 55.6 seconds.

He had beaten Lear by a hair.

As the two mecha headed back, the rest looked at them with a glimmer of respect.

Clearly, reputation wasn't everything.

Zhang Shan was unreservedly jumping up and down and whooping. Damn, who would still dare to look down on Ares College? Perhaps it was different in the past, but a new era had arrived!

Qiu Si was stunned. He clearly saw the fierce desire to win in the two. From the start, both had tried to throw off their opponent's pacing, repeatedly pushing their Bata Type V to the limit. It may have seemed like a blind pursuit of speed to the casual eye, but in truth, they had clashed with a high level of finesse. If it had been any other opponent, they could have lost without even knowing why.

This standard was far ahead of the rest. This was power capable of being the military's trump card. These two were truly experts.

Many only saw the results, that the two had beaten Achilles despite not using any Ability X or cheap tricks. But the whole process had gone by so quickly. Even their stutter-step had been done with the highest of efficiency and their movements executed with economy.

Were these what they called 'polished diamonds'?

Although the rest were oblivious, the race between these two had been even more impressive than Achilles. Achilles was indeed refined. He executed movements with a graceful aura about him, but these two brought deadliness within their solid movements.

The winner in this clash was Wang Zheng, something that no one expected.

The races continued, but the disparity in times only became clearer.

Achilles' ego had taken a hit, but his face remained genial. The other Moon members were less calm.

"F*ck, if they had competed against Achilles, they would have been fodder. Damn, how dare they act cool!" Atos spat bitterly. He was surprisingly vehement. After he was laid low, he had a persistently foul mood. It did not help that he was part of the reason why Achilles had lost his chance at leadership.

"Keke, don't be too hung up. Speed is determined by one's opponent. Don't mind the gossip," Taros said scathingly, directing his comments at the others who still oohed and aahed. "Lear has played this hand in a dirty fashion. Too bad for him, Wang Zheng rocked his boat and seized the opportunity instead."

"That guy definitely has a solid foundation. His control was smoother than Lear's, which decided his victory. To be honest, the sniper did not cut him any slack. He fired in the instant that he took the lead, which hurt his timing a little, but Lear still could not beat him."

Chapter 266: The Next Level

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

"I'm more concerned about how much of his true strength Lear used," Milo said. The Moon crowd was not used to being relegated to onlookers.

"I hear Wang Zheng has no Ability X. No matter how flawless his basics are, he's still but an excellent grunt soldier – useless. Lear looks indomitable, though."

Achilles waved it off. "Forget all that useless chatter. Focus on ourselves. Since Lear has started to get serious, then it's about time we do too."

No matter how collected Achilles appeared, a trickle of anger simmered within him at the current situation as well. To what extent this rage would manifest remained to be seen.

Taros narrowed his eyes. He had yet to meet someone more dangerous than Lear. His thinking was a full leap ahead of the average person, layered with complexities.

But human calculations always bowed down before fate. Despite his machinations, he had not foreseen the unknown factor, Wang Zheng.

In Lear's original calculations, Wang Zheng was a decent opponent to demonstrate his own abilities, and he would make himself look good in comparison. Yet now he had been the one to make Wang Zheng look good.

This was the first clash of power since the beginning of the second phase. Wang Zheng's uncanny win had left Zhang Shan and the rest overjoyed, as though the leadership had been secured. However, the others soon passed it over in their considerations, and their focus was still on Achilles, Lear, and Lie Xin.

"Wang Zheng, that was great! From now on, we also have to work harder and take the win. The first leader from Earth is about to be decided," Zhang Shan declared with confidence. Although his score was not the best, his revealing of Ability X had shaken the field as well and was even more impressive than Wang Zheng's win.

"Now I also feel that we have a chance as well!" Yuan Ye could not resist exclaiming. He had always thought Wang Zheng's chances of victory were zero, but today's performance had opened his eyes.

Most importantly, the victorious Wang Zheng was still calm and was not acting any different than usual, as though nothing out of the ordinary had happened.

Of course, some might think it was just him acting cool, but who cared?

To Wang Zheng, beating just about anybody at a test of basic proficiency was to be expected. If he did not even have the confidence for this, how could he think of going to Aslan?

The appearance of Wang Zheng's faction had heightened the atmosphere of competition subtly. Qiu Si was not too bothered. The test was simply an evaluation of the results. The training would again begin anew.

Mecha Pole- Circling.

In the uneven sand stood two huge, wooden pillars. The trainees had to pilot their mecha through the pillars, circling them as fast as possible. However, they could not touch the pillars.

The battle-obsessed students felt a little let down. Clearly, this type of training was the most dry and dreary thing to them. However, Wang Zheng was interested. His body, adjusted to the Plum Blossom Pillar, could easily execute the circling movement needed, but he still needed to get used to doing it in a mech.

This could dramatically increase a mech's operational agility, especially in a pinch. The pilot's understanding of a mech was an often understated skill which saved lives in critical moments.

A majority of the students were still resentful. More boring training. Wang Zheng was explaining the training objectives to his Ares College friends. They brightened up considerably after hearing his words.

They key was that the training had to be useful.

A guy like Qiu Si only cared about getting it done, but did not bother with explanations.

In the military market, OMG's Wind God mech was making astonishing progress, accompanied by stories that seemed overblown. The prototype was being subjected to a few military tests, and it performed spectacularly. Things had turned from lukewarm to serious, and the difference was clear.

The performance standards were definitely there. OMG had provided a demonstration video which showed the skeletal structure, to explain the mecha's capabilities and unique strengths to the military testers. It had tremendous strength and speedy displacement, satisfying the needs of battle needs and strategies. In controlled conditions, the military testers unanimously gave its battle capabilities an AA rating.

As for the protective shields, the three testers were in agreement. Although the chances of accidents were low, they were nevertheless present, and they remained logically necessary. If the mech could be refined to become more armored, the Wind God mecha could be used in a huge variety of situations and strategies. At present, they could already envision more than 10 types… confined environment group battles, dual-mecha operations, specialised missions…

When the military testers demanded changes the defence system, Ye Zisu was speechless…

Although the mech was her design, the excess shield function was completely excluded from her plan…

This was an ingenious advancement. Every mech had energy shields and naturally possessed the equipment to replenish and sustain these shields. However, this resulted in a curious reaction with the magnetic source, which had not occurred to her previously.

Yet controlling this was very difficult. It would only absorb the remaining energy from recharging the source, and the heat control had a refractory period. Ye Zisu knew that the military testers only cared about their own pride, but the suggestion was not useful. It was difficult to pull off in experiments, let alone actual battle. As for the situation in CT, they simply saw it as a matter of difficulty. However, if this mech could stabilize its performance, it would be very well received among mecha users.

Regardless, even if the excess shields were not stable, in the end, a AA-rank evaluation result sat on Ye Zisu's office table. This was the final report written by three different S-rank testers. This was definitely of interest to OMG. Furthermore, it was unclear why the military had assigned three S-rank testers to OMG. It was a form of recognition for OMG's entry into the military market, and the final result had been excellent. The army's order request was also in the process of deliberation. Although the quantity was modest, it was nevertheless a good start.

The research team led by Ye Zisu looked at the evaluation report displayed on the large electronic board in the laboratory. The room was silent. A few had tears in their eyes. CT had just been a trial run, but the military's recognition had been a necessary step. In the days when the Wind God had faced suspicions and doubts and the researchers had been on the verge of being disbanded, sentiments had been varied. Some were young, some had more than a decade of work experience, and to take up work in a different laboratory was no big deal. With their professional standards, if they lowered their expectations a little, they would not lack work. Their only regret was that the Wind God was indeed something special, and everyone had invested blood and sweat into it…

But finally, the moment of recognition had arrived for them…

Recalling their prior hardships, there were a few runny noses and constricted throats in the room.

"CHEEERS!"

After a short emotional moment, it was time for reckless celebration!

Documents and papers flew in the air, and they danced as if possessed. Both young researchers and old veterans expressed their joy through wild dance.

Ye Zisu smiled tolerantly as she walked out of her office. She waited until the hubbub had died down, then said, "Listen to me, everyone. It's too early to celebrate. Was our goal just to get an AA-rank?"

What?

AA-rank was not enough?

Military certifications were strict. In the last decade, various large manufacturers had sent their products for grading. Only 64 models had achieved the A rank. As for the AA rank, only six had made the mark.

These were the accumulated numbers of a decade. Now OMG had joined the AA-rank club. Was she still not satisfied?

"Set your sights higher. What's stopping us from joining the S-rank club? Is my ambition too large, or your confidence too small?"

In the laboratory, Ye Zisu seldom made these stirring speeches. Everybody was a professional and would give their utmost in their jobs even without such rhetoric.

But now, she needed more from them, for them to push past their limits and give her their very best efforts. More importantly, her mind was filled with that profile that moved like the wind. She had designed the perfect mecha for him.

"Leader Ye, tell us what you want. We are yours to command."

An elderly researcher spoke up. His gaze was bright. He lived for this work, and if they could create an S-rank mecha… it would be the crowning moment of his life.

The younger researchers' eyes were lit up as well. Why not give it a go while they were young and able?

Wasn't it a matter of just trying?

Ye Zisu smiled gratefully. She waved the pointer in her hand and the projector screen in the lab changed. Data on the Wind God mech's usage during the CT period began to show.

"This is the weekly data report from when the Wind God was in CT. Win rate… 41 percent. This isn't too exceptional. However, the platinum and diamond players' win rates reached 50.6 percent. This proves that our mech isn't just pilotable by those with skills like Skeleton. Any ordinary person, with enough familiarization, can achieve displacement. The rest depends on the ability to seize opportunities and one's grasp of battle strategy. These are the qualities that pilots have to develop, and they do not concern us that much."

The room chuckled. Skeleton had become somewhat of a hero to the laboratory, although they did not come into contact with CT frequently.

Ye Zisu continued, "The numbers match up to our predictions. However, the additional excess shields succeeded not more than 100 times in total. This is very, very low. Whereas in the military report…"

Another chunk of data appeared on the screen.

A three-line graph appeared, displaying the three S-rank testers' usage of the magnetic power source to power the shields. The average success rate was 11 percent, and actual battle rates would be even lower. It was virtually useless.

"It is exactly because the excess shields were not stable that our Wind God mech was unable to qualify for the S-rank," a young researcher pointed out regretfully.

"We control our destinies. We shall not give up here." Ye Zisu's eyes were shining. "Therefore, I have decided that the research group's next task is to deal with the problem of the energy shields!"

All the researchers were stunned, staring blankly at Ye Zisu.

An old and sensible researcher frowned. "Logically, funneling the excess power off magnetic-type power sources is the unique point, but to trigger the shield requires agile control from the pilot. Someone like Skeleton could do it easily, and it would have an advantage in CT. But for the common person to use it this way… would be impossible, wouldn't it? Moreover, this was an accidental discovery and not what we initially planned."

Chapter 267: Change of Fate

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

Theory. In the end, it was all theory. Just like batteries, for example. In theory, a battery which required charging once every 10 days would really have to be charged once every three days.

The other laboratory members nodded as well. The Wind God's output levels had reached a sublime balance, and additional components could no longer be attached. In order to facilitate displacement, is shields were thin. Unless they wanted to take a leaf out of the Wargod No. 1's book and completely do away with shields?

Ye Zisu smiled encouragingly. "I know this is a huge challenge. But none of us are satisfied and ready to give up. I'm thinking that we can add on a few interesting design changes without any additional components that might affect the energy setup…"

Click. A schema and initial workplan draft appeared on the projector screen.

Everyone was stunned. Would this work?

"Of course, this is still riddled with problems. I don't think the details will end up as I envision, and the arrangement of the mech might undergo an endless number of revisions. This is why I need the help of each and every one of you."

Ye Zisu begged in a pleading tone.

"This design, it's ingenious, maybe- it might just… Even if I have to work through the night tonight, I want to come up with the first experimental module…"

"Old Man Chang, tomorrow is your wife's birthday isn't it? You were supposed to be on leave. How about calling it quits for today…" Ye Zisu shook her head with an exasperated smile.

"We've been married so long, there's no way she won't understand. It'll be fine. I'll call her up, she'll scold me for a while, and we'll be fine. I'll just promise to get her a promotional poster autographed by Lin Huiyin as a present." The old researcher had surged up with feverish excitement. It was possible… He still had years in him left. It was possible that, under the leadership of this woman, he would finally achieve the glory of creating a S rank mecha.

Without even pausing to celebrate, the entire research cell promptly threw themselves into the research for the Wind God 2.0.

Ye Zisu was also immersed in her work. The image of Wang Zheng using the Wind God to fend off 100 enemies was still deeply imprinted in her mind. One day, he would emerge in the arena, and on that day, he would definitely have a mech worthy of being his battle companion.

She would make the Wind God mech… a real god.

After a week, the results of OMG's Wind God v2.43 were out after countless minor revisions. It was now in the third iteration of the fourth major revision. It was finally returning positive feedback.

The Wind God v2.43's recharge through the magnetic source emissions was now able to produce a stable excess shield on the mech. The protective shield was no longer an advantage limited to Skeleton, although the strength and duration of the shield would depend on the mech pilot's abilities.

This was a classic case of standards speaking for themselves. Mech design was not Ye Zisu's vocation, but a hobby from her childhood. Her imagination had been allowed to run unfettered when she was young, and she had learned much from the experienced maintenance master, Luomu. It enabled her to look at the mech from a different angle.

Following the experimental model's data release, the entire mech production industry was again shaken. In such a short period of time, the Wind God mech had actually made enormous progress. All the time that OMG had kept their heads down and labored was now paying off.

But regrettably, there was nothing but silence from the military. The Chronos family's influence had begun to assert itself. It was only a single mech model. The impact on the military seemed to be minimal and thus they sided with the Chronos family. After all, the Chronos family was heavily involved in many facets of the Federation and held huge influence. It was unwise to offend them.

Chronos' move was despotic, aimed at removing this threat to their most profitable industry.

Chronos had been thoroughly cruel with this move. Within OMG, the effect was already being felt, and senior members had begun to hand in their resignations.

Ye Bingwen had foreseen this. Entering this industry meant encountering such setbacks. Those that left were not worth keeping around anyway. Besides, the core driver was the research team led by Ye Zisu. As long as this core remained firm, a little pressure in other divisions would mean nothing in the long run.

The best defense against pressure was offense. Ye Zisu directly approached Solon with the newest data on their latest mech.

Solon would definitely render full cooperation. Besides Skeleton as a good reason, this mech had the best chance of becoming popular in other major regions. CT was definitely better in the entertainment sector. Whether this mech would enjoy popular success was not guaranteed, but CT was definitely a good place to set it up for success. As the Solar System regional president, it would be another feather in his cap.

The shield was undoubtedly more stable than before, and it attracted countless pilots. This mech attracted those who wished to never stop and relentlessly plunge on.

But in actuality, there was nothing too special about it.

The Chronos family's influence was so deep-rooted that market penetration had virtually stopped, despite the initial recognition that OMG received. Even the huge conglomerates had been warned off. The mech was clearly promising, but purchase negotiations were lukewarm and noncommittal. It was slowly becoming one of those critically-acclaimed products that saw no real world reception.

No one would dare to risk offending the Chronos family over one mech.

In actuality, this was a double-edged sword to the Chronos family. Their overly hardline approach had strained the relations in the industry. They had broken the rules of the game, but retaliation needed an opportunity to surface. No one would step up to be the first to challenge the Chronos family.

Yet, this deadlock was very quickly broken. An Aslan shuttle arrived on Earth without much ceremony, but the entire Earth was surprised at the people who walked out of it. It was the Aslan military's FS mecha research evaluators!

Only a mech that had perked the interest of the Aslan military could activate such an evaluation team. In other words, they could be interested in buying the mech!

When the reporters received the news, they swarmed to the scene. Everyone felt that there might soon be something the prideful Earthlings could indulge in.

"Excuse me, are you here on Earth for holiday?"

The reporters' first question was asked jokingly, but it was indeed the fear of thousands. It would have been embarrassing to realise they had only been imagining things.

The evaluation team leader shook their head slightly, with the air of elegance that one expected from those of Aslan. "We're here about OMG's Wind God mech…"

WOW!

Everyone present exploded in a cheers. Everybody knew of the fabled FS evaluation team because they were the advance foreign mecha purchasers of the Aslan army. Once they were dispatched, it meant the Aslan military would buy.

"Is Aslan really interested in a mech that hasn't been fully refined?"

Clearly, the reporter had a different opinion.

"We'll decide how refined it is after the evaluation."

The FS team left promptly, leaving a stunned crowd behind…

"Quick, send the message out, the Wind God mech is about to go crazy! I'm chasing the details now…" Reporters and editors screamed to each other over their Skylinks, chasing the news desperately.

"Damn, I just sold OMG stock yesterday…"

The reporters that dabbled in stocks were howling in frustration. They had followed the Chronos' family's lead, and… well, tears would not help now.

The news shook the Solar System military as well. The higher leadership held back to back conferences, and at last, the Federation's legislative assembly joined in as well… the Federation assembly leader sternly dressed down a few of the senior leadership who had been sent by the Chronos family.

Regardless of the result, the mech's development alone had indicated that it was worth supporting, and now it had blown up into this.

No matter how formidable the Chronos family was, their domain did not extend outside. Once OMG broke into the foreign market, the Chronos family would be powerless to stop them. Especially when Aslan was involved, one wrong step could lead to an external dispute.

Most crucially, just as the Solar System was scrambling to increase its military reputation, Aslan's willingness to buy Earth's mech was a huge point of pride, and it had political implications.

The assembly's point was clear. Full cooperation would be provided from now on to open the doors for OMG.

That very night, a few of the OMG applications that had previously been blocked were all awarded permits and approved. Ye Bingwen had even received praise from his shareholders.

Once this deal with Aslan was complete, the Chronos family would be forever powerless to sully the reputation of OMG's Wind God.

The next day, the public relations department of OMG was too busy to go home. All kinds of requests for interviews and statements flooded in one after another. All kinds of project requests that had been ignored for the longest time despite numerous attempts to connect now began knocking on the door looking to work together.

Although they were so busy that their dark eye circles grew and their eyes became swollen, the entire PR department was gripped with feverish enthusiasm. Due to the Chronos family's interference, OMG's PR department had entered a slump and hit walls wherever they went. A few enterprising staff members had jumped ship, scorning that only fools and wastrels would remain.

Who was stupid now? Who was useless?

"The Solar System's Star newspaper wants to interview the Wind God's architect? At this time, it might have to wait until next Wednesday. Yes, Aslan Times has made a prior appointment with us, you see… Yes, we're fully packed, the earliest would be next Wednesday."

What drove the media craziest was the architect of Wind God mecha. OMG's next leader, Ye Zisu, the beauty who was only in her second year at university. In the higher tiers of the mecha design world, where the old and stodgy dominated, she floated in like a fresh breeze, attracting the attention of every media outlet.

The Wind God's prior success was already earth-shattering. This time it stood out proudly again as a completed product, and everybody was anxiously waiting on the Aslan FS evaluators' final decision.

Two days later, the FS team pronounced it Result S-, which classified it as an S-rank mecha.

This news took the Milky Way by storm

Everybody knew that the Aslan standards were fairly high. The same S-rank from Earth meant nothing much, but Aslan's was held as quality throughout the Milky Way.

Perhaps only 20-odd mecha had ever received the S-rank rating from Aslan, and the Solar System models had at best achieved A-ranks.

Although S- was a lower tier within the S-rank classification, it brought unspeakable glory as Ye Zisu's first mech model.

FS's evaluation was: Capabilities, superb. It requires expert control, and training difficulty is considerable. Suitable for specialized warfare.

Once this evaluation was announced, it meant that OMG's client base would no longer be confined to Earth's boundaries.

Ye Zisu was about to shake the universe!

Chapter 268: Rushing to the Sky!

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

"I merely came up with the design concept. The bulk of the credit must be attributed to the team's collective expertise…"

Ye Zisu adopted a humble attitude during interviews. She had no interest in fame.

However, she was clearly on the fast track to fame, given the way things were developing. Especially after an album of her photographs were exposed on the net…

These had been leaked by Ye Zisu's high school junior. They were of Ye Zisu participating in public high school events, as well as her high school graduation photographs.

In an instant, she melted the hearts of countless mech fans… Even those not interested in mecha expressed thus: Ye Zisu was cuter than most idols!

Most outstanding was Ye Zisu's passport photographs; virtually every high school boy was enamored by her innocent beauty. Each vowed to enter Ares College in order to get closer to the goddess of their hearts. Even the elementary school boys were set thus. Target: Dawn Middle School, the path that their goddess once tread.

Her team also didn't abuse her humble approach towards the interviews. They frankly revealed that the Wind God 2.4's modular core was the brainchild of Ye Zisu. "Lab Leader Ye is the most gifted mecha architect that I've ever met. I personally don't think much of those reports of her that are going viral. I hope that more people can have a professional eye, to look past the 'young beauty' and see the talent that lies underneath. Hmm, your article wouldn't be one of those, would it?"

The reporter laughed it off. "Honestly? I'm afraid I can't …"

A university undergraduate, a beauty, and a genius in design who rose to prominence from nowhere. This was sensational news material. Who cared if every other report was gushing about her beauty? Why not take an original approach and present this heartfelt view?

Many powerful countries in the Milky Way extended offers and invitations to Ye Zisu. Aslan invited her to attend networking events, while others took a more direct approach, dangling titles like "National Scholar" in hopes of tempting her to migrate. Many colleges similarly sent her offers of matriculation. In their view, Ares College was a second-rate institution, and a military school to boot. Surely a talent like herself would be looking to move, right?

Ye Zisu was also not military personnel, and Ares College had no business hogging such talent to themselves. Xiao Fei… was the exception.

Although Ye Zisu was only a second year, and a little too young, the policymakers were clear. This was a mech that enabled anybody to execute continuous displacement. Once its battle capabilities had been affirmed, the main designer would deserve every bit of recognition and then some. Besides, it was also a political move.

Doors opened everywhere for OMG, especially for Ye Zisu. If it was not for her adamant refusals on several occasions, the rank of Solar System Federation Scholar would have long been been announced for her.

"Zisu, it's the Federation Scholars… There are less than a thousand of them in the entire Solar System…"

Ye Bingwen felt a pang of regret. Many scientists held the title of Federation Scholar as their dearest ambition, working their whole lives to attain the proof and recognition the title entailed. Ye Zisu had flatly turned it down. In truth, second chances at such opportunities would not come.

Ye Zisu demurred. "Dad, my ability is still lacking. Success this time around was in part due to luck."

Ye Bingwen smiled knowingly. He felt proud as a father, to have raised a daughter that could keep her cool when faced with the temptation of unspeakable glory.

Far away in the Aslan empire.

Ye Zisu's name had also made an appearance in the palace's intelligence department.

"Your Highness, this is the latest watchlist. Locke's Xia Liyun and Earth's Ye Zisu are the most noteworthy," the Imperial Chief of Intelligence reported to Aina. Although she did not have the authority to decide the list, she had been granted access to the list.

"Ye Zisu? Elaborate." Aina was a little surprised. It was a familiar name. Could it really be?

"As you wish. Since Your Highness also studied at Earth's Ares College in the past, you might have met before…"

On the slide, Ye Zisu's information streamed through the display. Age, background, academic portfolio, achievements, and comments by the Intelligence Department itself.

"In summary, her work in mech design speaks of a rare talent, especially her latest Wind God mech. While it shares many similar characteristics to the Super X mech that the Intelligence's Mech Development Department is currently researching, it is a cut above in the finer details."

The Intelligence Chief's voice was measured and clinical. Aslan's strength lay not in pride, but in a clear understanding of its weaknesses, an appreciation of the strengths of others, and a willingness to learn.

The corner of Aina's mouth quirked. It really was her. "Elaborate on this Wind God mech."

"As you command." Seeing that the princess' interest was peaked, the Intelligence Chief retrieved the data from his Skylink.

"The Wind God mech is OMG's attempt to enter the military mech market… It possesses the capabilities to execute consecutive displacement. At its limit, it can surpass Atlantis' Shadow Stream mech. Of course, it has its flaws, which are considerable… In summary, as the first iteration of a mech, it is excellent, and it has much potential for improvement. This is the Wind God 2.4's modular experiment. Using the magnetic power source, it generates an emergency energy shield…"

It was apparent that the Intelligence Chief was singing the praises of this mech. Furthermore, it was not his personal opinion, but an objective report largely synthesized from the palace's best mech researchers.

"This is a clip of battle footage from CT, which is pertinent for reference."

Lastly, the Intelligence Chief played a clip of Skeleton's 1 versus 100 battle.

Aina glanced at Skeleton's ID, and her mouth twitched with a hint of infatuation. Longing welled up in her heart.

Another week of training continued. Fights, contests, collision courses… each was a test so basic that it left them wanting. The Moon side held their tongues. This was one confusing matter after another. They were the aces, not trash, but they had no choice. This was Earth, and military discipline compelled them. And then there had been the matter of Lie Xin and Achilles' chastisement. Everyone held their anger simmering in their bellies.

In comparison, Wang Zheng and Zhang Shan had even attitudes. Zhang Shan was always up for anything and went through the training with hoots and yells of enthusiasm. He had now opened up completely, and he was extroverted to boot. The more people there were, the freer he felt. He loved this feeling and atmosphere.

Wang Zheng was the very picture of pose. He had decided to contest in all seriousness and placed first by a comfortable margin in each task.

Achilles and Lie Xin had been cowed. Even Lear was bothered. Wang Zheng dominated in every basic task they were set, whether it was trekking, maneuvers, or shooting. To sum him up, the classic model test scorer.

Earth's training had long been criticized for its love of meaningless data. It was as though they thought impressive numbers could translate into actual skill, although their results on the battlefield were nothing special.

Normally, even military discipline gave room for the development of individual specialties, but Earth's training excelled in killing any such individuality.

It was frustrating, but it could not be helped. It was not that they could not beat Wang Zheng, but within the task constraints, their real abilities were suppressed. In comparison, Wang Zheng's basics were mind-numbingly strong, and this saw him to first place in each and every task.

"Pah, Earthlings."

Many were privately unhappy that the Earthlings' outdated methods were not helping. The competition, apparently fierce, nevertheless proceeded under heavy regulation, and they were unable to really go at it. While the Earthlings were used to such an environment, the others, especially the Martians and those from Space City, were being exposed to a completely different style of training and felt cooped up.

The day's training had ended, and the mood in the canteen was heavy. First place in every task had again been dominated by Wang Zheng, and everyone was more or less resigned to the fact.

Yuan Ye walked over to Zhang Shan, massaging his shoulder. "Damn, you were wild today. What got into you?"

Zhang Shan's training that day had been excellent as usual, and his improvement was steady. Most of all, his enjoyment was a sharp contrast form the general resentment. Together with his results, they invited jealousy and hate.

"Tch. It's only natural for someone with such excellent capabilities like myself to become something special." Zhang Shan was one of those who could never resist bragging.

"Will you drop dead if you don't boast?"

"Boasting is healthy." In the military, men had to be strong, and Zhang Shan had long thrown humility away for good.

A distance away, Atos had a wild look in his eyes. His scores for the day had slipped. This had nothing to do with his abilities, but rather the stifling atmosphere. His heart chafed rebelliously. Furthermore, his temper had caused Achilles to lose status. Although Achilles never mentioned it, his looks and tone always seemed to hint at the responsibility. This had soured Atos' mood further.

Their regal smiles faded from the features of the Eight Stars. Everyone's performance had been unremarkable, free of errors but equally free of excellence. Conversely, this left them angry.

Achilles was still tranquil. In the recent training, he had acquitted himself with distinction, although it still fell short of Wang Zheng's performance. His own foundations were already reaching their peak, but if he used Ability X, it would seem like an unfair advantage, in bad taste.

Lear's performance was similarly stable. It was generally excellent. It seemed that he was of the same mind as Achilles regarding their Ability X. But, unlike Achilles, Lear was truly on track. The larger scheme of things were moving as he desired.

The Martians were holding it together. The close watch by those of the Moon reduced them to spectators of the boisterous scene.

The more Atos watched Zhang Shan, the more irritated he got. And then there was Lear and that fatty, Luo Fei… As for Wang Zheng, he had no basis putting on airs. He could only show off his basics and had no Ability X. Only in Earth's training regime could someone like Wang Zheng shine.

At this moment, he overheard Zhang Shan bragging to Yuan Ye about "skills". He surged to his feet uncontrollably. "Zhang Shan, shut up, will you?! How dare a thing like you have the cheek to brag so much? Let me tell you, I could destroy you with one hand. A rotten place like Earth only breeds more trash. It lowers our standards!"

Chapter 269: Action!

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

Instantly, the whole canteen fell silent. Some people had started to pre-emptively move the benches away. It seemed as though the situation was escalating into a fight.

At this moment, Zhang Shan stood out with a crash. "Hey, you sure have a big mouth. How come your results are so poor, huh? All talk, no action."

The moment his words rang out, Atos flew out of his seat with a clatter. He had been waiting for Zhang Shan to rise up and had been holding in his strength. He immediately used his Ability X and, in the blink of an eye, appeared before Zhang Shan.

In that instant, Zhang Shan felt a sharp, oppressive force rush towards him.

Atos was not one who could take insults. He understood how it was going to play out. Did Qiu Si think he could hold him in line with his heavy-handed cancelling of Lie Xin and Achilles' leadership status? Really? Were the Mars and Moon factions going to continue to take this lying down? Besides, he hated the mundane training. They could go on without him.

He might as well go out with a bang and give Zhang Shan a good beating. He wanted to see if they would really disqualify the whole lot of them.

If the Solar System wanted to make a name for itself in IG, they needed Achilles and the Eight Stars. No one else could do it.

BANG…

Zhang Shan did not see it coming clearly, but he felt a fiery, stinging pain. Atos' ability, superspeed! This was why he was part of the team – it was an important ability.

In that instant, he slapped Zhang Shan in the face and followed it with a kick that sent Zhang Shan flying back.

BANG! In an instant, Zhang Shan's fire had been lit. Military rules and discipline had vanished. There was only one thought in his mind: f*ck him!

BANG. Zhang Shan pounced forward, a hand outstretched towards Atos.

Atos looked at him with contempt. That kind of speed? Even a tortoise crawled faster.

Yet at this time, Zhang Shan's body distorted violently and he disappeared.

Displacement, but what would be the most advantageous location he would appear at?

He activated his superspeed once again. In the same instant, Zhang Shan leaped down from mid-air, towards what would have been Atos' back. Yet in that moment, Atos had already circled behind Zhang Shan again.

In a straight fight, Atos' ability trumped Zhang Shan's. Furthermore, Zhang Shan's ability use was still not fully mature, and he immediately suffered a couple of kicks. Atos was purposely humiliating Zhang Shan, and he sent another slap whistling towards his face.

In that instant, a figure exploded over like a hurricane, sweeping Atos away.

Zhang Runan!

"I'll even fight you with one hand, you flea," Zhang Runan stated coldly.

There was no movement from the Moon faction, and Taros stood up. "Unfair numbers? You gotta run that past me first."

As he spoke, Taros made his move with no intention of hearing anybody out.

BANG. Someone at Taros' level could stand against Zhang Runan even without Ability X. At this moment, his eyes flashed, clearly using his Ability X. He appeared in front of Zhang Runan, clamping down on her shoulder, but a huge wave of force roiled up at him.

BANG…

Zhang Runan had lashed out with a foot and Taros had fallen. He had not anticipated that. Her ability was not rigid but fairly adaptable and flexible.

Atos had already leaped for the unprotected back of Zhang Runan's head when a huge force came his way. BANG…

Atos was kicked away, flying over 10 meters and slamming into the wall.

Wang Zheng had intervened.

"Atos, you backstabber. If you want to die, just say the word."

Fighting was no big deal, especially in military school. Unhappiness was settled with a quick scuffle, but Atos had no boundaries.

Achilles blocked his way with a cold smile. ���Wang Zheng, you talk too much."

As he spoke, an enormous wave of energy shrouded the entire place. Achilles had made his move.

Atos crawled up from the ground, wiping blood from his mouth. "Boss, if you want to be the gentleman, you gotta choose carefully as well. This bunch of trash are only fit to be slaves. Benevolent leadership be damned, the victor is the king. Whoever is strongest should be the leader. These Earthlings only know how to play dirty, but they are weak!"

"Atos, you can eat rubbish, but don't talk rubbish. If you're not convinced, I'll beat you with both hands tied behind my back," Lear said.

"Boss, you need not concern yourself with trash like this. I'll clean it up with a few moves." Luo Fei loved hitting someone when they were already down.

As they spoke, Atos' eyes gleamed again. His Ability X reached a peak, and he rushed towards Wang Zheng, stabbing towards his eyes.

Ching…

His profile was frozen. Atos' fingers had been pincered by Wang Zheng. The speed of the attack confounded the eye, and the onlookers could not clearly catch what was going on, yet Wang Zheng had accurately blocked it.

Crack.

With an anguished scream, Atos' two fingers had been snapped.

Wang Zheng patted Atos on the cheek lightly. "Boy, it's dangerous to play with fingers."

He then threw Atos away, completely ignoring the Moon crowd. No one expected such ruthlessness from Wang Zheng. Although Atos played rough, in consideration of Achilles, nobody dared to go too overboard.

"Impressive. You've been holding back on us. Looks like I really have to experience it for myself," Achilles said coolly. Clearly the Sun God was starting to get angry.

Achilles was more serious than they had ever seen him before. He took a deep breath. Taros was right. These were not Moon people, and he had clearly been using the wrong approach. In that case, it was time to show them the stick instead of the carrot.

Masasi shook his head. He had wanted to intervene before, but things had now come to a stage out of his control.

Wang Zheng smiled. "The esteemed name of the Sun God. But the name isn't too good. The sun means ri… are you telling others that you're qian ri?" [T/N ri literally mean day, but also a slang for f*cking, and qian ri is an insult, asking to be f*cked]

Zhang Shan's eyes gleamed. He clenched his fists and moved up wordlessly to back Wang Zheng up. Meng Tian also moved up quietly. The temperature of the place was rapidly dropping.

Lie Xin clapped her hands. "Achilles, your guy was too dirty. He holds nothing back in his insults and doesn't fight head on. Besides, a couple of blows would be harmless enough, but to gouge at the eyes is really too much, isn't it?"

Raston lazily shrugged his shoulders. "Looks like there aren't too many gentlemen on the Moon these days."

In a short while, Lie Xin had made up her mind. This was no time to sit back and hope they would destroy each other. If she finished Achilles now, she would be number one.

Achilles stared at Lie Xin with a cruel smile. "I, and only I, can lead the Solar System Federation to break out of the cycle. It seems like I've mollycoddled you all for too long."

"On Mars, those that brag so much normally see their teeth punched out." Lie Xin stood up with an evil grin.

Achilles' eyes suddenly exploded with silver moonlight. What a fearsome spirit!

His unfathomable strength became a revolution of energy that permeated the entire space. Pressure like a huge mountain bore down on everybody's bodies, and they could not move!

Chapter 270: A Chair Flies

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

Enough was enough!

He had already expended enough in terms of effort, ability, and manner. It seemed like his envisioned dream was not about to become a reality. In that case, he had to use raw strength to beat them into submission. Just as Atos had said, these people were too overconfident in their strength.

Thump, thump, thump…

Some fell directly to the floor. Some were barely standing but unable to move even an inch. Achilles alone took them all on.

The Eight Stars of the Moon needed but to stand behind the Sun God. Taros was especially surprised. He knew that Achilles was strong, but he did not expect him to have grown so fast in the few years apart.

To crush people with pure energy was something that only C-rank and above abilities could accomplish.

Meng Tian's face was white as a sheet. This heavy pressure emitting from Achilles' eyes could only be withstood by Ability X users, and then only for a short while. She would soon succumb as well. Her body shook as she felt the strength ebb from her body.

Zhang Runan held on a little longer than Meng Tian, but it took all she had to simply protect herself.

The only ones who remained calm were Lear, Lie Xin, Raston, and a few others. However, they too were temporarily stumped as to how to proceed.

They were clear as to what Achilles' move meant.

Regardless of their rank or Ability X, all were helpless before Achilles' power!

Achilles twitched a finger. BANG!

The fearsome energy changed its current. An invisible strength crushed them with the power of a tsunami.

Raston and Lie Xin's gazes wavered. Even defending against it took a lot of energy. Achilles was hailed as the Sun God precisely because he had this profound ability to back the name.

People were beginning to see Achilles differently. In the military, the strongest were deserving of respect, and they were no exception. This, this was the real Achilles. The previous training, as the Moon people said, was truly paltry and meaningless. This was an insurmountable difference.

Lear's expression changed. If things continued as they were, then Achilles would really draw the popular sentiment. His fist moved slightly, ready to act.

Suddenly, laughter broke in the air. It was Wang Zheng. He had overestimated Achilles' temperament. Flexing his strength seemed like a cool move, but few here would be moved. Childish.

One, two, three steps, Wang Zheng advanced towards Achilles. The chair legs dragged on the floor with a hiss of friction.

BOOM. The silver light from Achilles' eyes became even more intense.

The energy volume blazed forth, stronger than before.

Everyone suddenly realized that their bodies were free. Achilles was concentrating all his power directly on Wang Zheng!

At this moment, there was an intangible energy between Achilles and Wang Zheng. It formed into silver spots in which the energy levels had condensed. Achilles really wanted Wang Zheng to be crushed before him.

BOOM. The entire energy vortex was rushing towards Wang Zheng.

In this instant, Lie Xin, Lie Guang, Raston, Lear, Taros, and even Achilles himself flinched. If they had been in Wang Zheng's predicament, they too would have collapsed to the energy vortex.

But Wang Zheng just stood there smiling.

BANG!

He actually threw the chair!

Under the pressure of an ability user, standing alone required enormous energy, let alone throwing a chair.

With this move, Wang Zheng had finally made an impression on them.

To actually be able to attack as he wished under Achilles' immense energy pressure.

BOOM…

The chair exploded a meter away from Achilles, but the condensed aura dissipated with a burst as well. Everyone heaved a collective sigh of relief and breathed again.

Achilles was frowning. "You're an ability user?!"

Everyone had always thought that Wang Zheng had not awakened and simply had strong foundations. This was also a psychological advantage that they had always held over him.

Yet with this move, they felt apprehension grip them anew. His expression had frozen. He hadn't acknowledged Wang Zheng as a rival and had treated his better scores lightly because Wang Zheng was not an Ability X user.

A non-Ability X fighter, regardless of performance, could only be a member but never a leader. With this forgiving attitude, he had hoped to win some hearts. After all, Ares College had a few who showed promise. If he could use them, they would be a big help, at least in stabilizing his hold on Earth.

But things had changed.

He had not batted an eyelid in the face of Achilles' energy suppression and had dissipated it with ease. Could he be an Ability X user of equal rank?

That was impossible!

Achilles' eyes were bright. Their gazes met, and Achilles realized that his energy ability was useless against his opponent.

His energy ability was substantial and powerful. He had to be an Ability X user, or else he could not have withstood it.

This Wang Zheng was really someone who was more than meets the eye.

Things had really taken a new turn.

"Whoever wants to be a leader has to have the ability of a leader. No one who made it here is weak. Everybody's eyes are bright. Just because you think you can be leader doesn't guarantee you that. C rank Ability X users are not invincible."

Wang Zheng stated mildly.

In truth, Wang Zheng was faking it a little here, but it would not hurt to put a scare in them. He was guessing that Achilles' ability C-rank, and although his energy suppression was merely a display of his energy powers and not his Ability X, Wang Zheng had guessed right. Given Achilles' personality, he would not show his true strength here… If he gave ground here, it would be enough to start an open war. It was not much.

Although he had been exposed, Achilles retracted his energy. "Very well, that should be how things are as well. But Earth has been unfair. This regulation is unreasonable. As a military student and a participant in IG qualifications, to disqualify mine and Lie Xin's contestant statuses over a small fight was too heavy-handed."

Wang Zheng shrugged. "I agree. But I'm not the instructor."

Achilles had not expected Wang Zheng to concur. He had thought he would find some other rebuttal.

Seeing Achilles' astonishment, Wang Zheng smiled. "I wish that those around me become as strong as they can. Only then can the Solar System Federation break through. Whatever moves we have should be saved for use against Aslan. To use it against our own is no talent at all."

"Well said!" Achilles extended a thumbs up to Wang Zheng while facing Lear.

To play such tricks during IG training was too petty and a waste of time and energy.

Lear's face was unchanging. Lie Xin was moved as well and stepped forward. "This is why the Solar System has been faring poorly all these years. We're too busy fighting amongst ourselves. If Qiu Si was here, he would disqualify us all for what just happened."

Lie Xin spoke resolutely. Things had gotten out of hand previously, but she had to hand it to this pretty boy Wang Zheng. He was not what she expected.

"We can collectively bring this matter up to the instructors. Truth be told, regardless of whoever leads and becomes official members in the end, we all hope for the strongest leader to take charge," Wang Zheng said.

"Hey, hey, Wang Zheng. Why does it seem like you're singing your own praise? You as a leader? I refuse to acknowledge you," Taros spat maliciously. He could not stand the likes of Wang Zheng, who was assuming authority.

Wang Zheng looked at Taros without changing his expression. "As I said, whoever has the ability should be leader. Whether you like the person, or will acknowledge the person, is irrelevant." He then looked at Atos. "This is but a small chastisement. Fights between men with a quarrel are common, but boundaries should be respected. If that happens again, not even God can save you."

Wang Zheng's words were filled with casual arrogance. He did not even acknowledge Atos.

Meng Ao was watching quietly from the side. He was aware of Qiu Si's little games. The Cronos family's arm was long. He had not intervened, as he was curious to how these youths would solve the problem.

There were indeed a few calm ones among them, but the one that surprised him the most was Wang Zheng.

That guy was actually an Ability X user. He had fooled them for a long while. He must have awakened late. And that Zhang Shan as well. It was a series of unexpected good fortune.

While watching the scene in front of him, Meng Ao gestured. A young major saluted crisply and went over. This iteration of IG seemed like a small matter, but in actuality, it also symbolized a revolutionary turn for the Solar System military.

They had to reinvent themselves, or else they would be stuck forever. It was difficult for the older generation to change now, but the newer generation was highly flexible.

Wang Zheng's suggestion was met with general approval. They were still divided into their three factions, and although Mars and Moon had been eliminated, Earth alone held no persuasive power.

At this moment, an unknown young officer approached. "Assemble."

"My name is Zhang Jingqi. Instructor Qiu Si had to leave to attend to matters. From now on, I will be in charge of your training."

"Sir!" Milo raised her hand. It was easier for girls to be heard.

"Speak," Zhang Jingqi said.

"Although we made some errors previously, we do not feel that this should disqualify Achilles and Lie Xin from the leadership contest. We are willing to accept punishment, but not to be excepted from the responsibility and contest."

Milo had spoken well.

Zhang Jingqi smiled. Atos still glowered as the medical attendants took him away. Wang Zheng was unconcerned. Some people were just like dogs; they had to be beaten to learn.

"Everybody's training results are recorded. Earth is a simple place. Whoever scores the best receives the nomination. At present, Wang Zheng ranks first, Lear second, Achilles third, and Lie Xin fourth. The rest are rather significantly far behind, but you four have a chance. In the training to come, whoever can pull ahead will be Earth's chosen leader candidate."

Both the Moon and Mars factions were a little surprised. Nobody had expected such a reasonable change in tone. This was inconceivable. Earth had always been rigid, especially in the key matters, but they actually…

"For real?" Milo asked doubtfully.

He was possibly tickled by Milo's cute expression. "Of course. But the training to follow will only be tougher. This time around, the IG leader will be the best. No other factor will be allowed to affect this.

"Yes, Sir!"

Everyone cheered, their fighting spirit galvanized. In truth, the time they had spent under Qiu Si had been meaningless. They were unafraid of hard times – after all, they had all emerged out of the first phase – but mental torture was unwanted.

Chapter 271: Leader

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

"You must learn to deal with stress, not just physical, but also mental. In the battles to come, fairness will not exist. Most times, you will find yourselves battling against the odds. I hope that in these tough times, you will remember your goals and principles," Zhang Jingqi said. Although he did not explicitly say so, they saw what he was hinting at.

One's attitude must be good.

Zhang Jingqi glanced at Wang Zheng. "Wang Zheng, your performance was the best. Come with me."

Wang Zheng left with Zhang Jingqi, a little surprised. The rest looked at each other. Achilles, who had been in a direct confrontation with Wang Zheng, was smiling a little bitterly. Lie Xin's smile was playful, while Lear could not muster one.

They had expended all their energy and ideas, yet they ended up making Wang Zheng look good.

To Achilles and Lie Xin, they would rather have Wang Zheng, rather than Lear, take the leadership.

The Ares College students were overjoyed. At the start, they felt unsure of themselves, but now it seemed like there might be hope.

Strength was confidence.

Wang Zheng had awakened. Regardless of what issues it had, he at least could hold his ground.

And as for battle foundations, he was unbeatable there.

Zhang Jingqi was also surprised at the coolness of the youth beside him. Before IG started, who would have thought that this youth would come out of nowhere? It had been Achilles' playground until this dark horse appeared. One must also move in accordance to the way events played out. Before the power balance had been upset, they would not give him this chance.

"General, he's here," Zhang Jingqi reported respectfully.

Meng Ao nodded. "Come in."

Wang Zheng did not know what Meng Ao was playing at, pulling him out even before the training had concluded, and in front of all the students.

Meng Ao sized Wang Zheng wordlessly, secretly admiring. He purposely remained silent, testing his response.

Calm, and then more calm. His gaze did not waver, but neither was he one to jump to orders blindly. It must be confidence.

At that age, such confidence was rare. Besides a lack of reputation and background, this kid was a good sprout.

"Wang Zheng, are you interested in being the leader?" Meng Ao asked with a smile.

Wang Zheng thought he was going to be questioned about the fight or his Ability X. This was unprecedented.

"What, no confidence?" Meng Ao pressed.

"Sir! I am confident. I will continue to work hard. I wish to go to Aslan and bring glory to Earth!"

Wang Zheng said. Wang Zheng was not lacking in confidence. He simply realized that empty words were useless, and his actions had to prove his wishes.

"Very good. Then now I formally announce that you are one of the potential leaders. One amongst you, Lear, Achilles, and Lie Xin will eventually become the leader."

Meng Ao said. He needed to reward this boy and at the same time add to his burden in order to have him taste responsibility.

This kid had yet to finish maturing. His power was strong and his leadership skills equally good, but he had not yet experienced the responsibility that leadership entailed.

A leader needed not only to be strong, but also to be aware.

On the way back, Wang Zheng was a little bubbly. Although Bonehead's training preached coolness under all circumstances, he was human as well, not a robot. He had taken another huge leap towards Aslan.

However, Wang Zheng did not feel as though he had already won. Lear liked to play his cards close to his chest and would not act until the crucial moment. Lie Xin seemed flamboyant, but she had the advantage that only girls had. Her personal charm was also considerable, and she simply hid her feminine wiles most of the time.

As for Achilles, he was indeed admirable. Strength determined confidence, and he was a worthy opponent.

In the training to come, Achilles, Lear, Lie Xin, and the rest would start to get serious as well. The replacement of Qiu Si and the appearance of Zhang Jingqi marked the beginning of a new phase. If they did not bring their abilities to bear now, then there would be no other chances.

The Earth sector's tests were divided into two major categories, mech control and shooting.

It was completely attuned to testing the students' ability to resist interference and their fine motor controls.

Although Achilles and the rest had started to give it their all, Wang Zheng continued to clinch first place in the subsequent tests in stable fashion. Although the gap was not huge, he was consistently ahead. Achilles and the rest did not use their Ability X again. Ability X, to a mech fighter, was an emergency measure used to save lives. It was definitely not something one used regularly. Furthermore, knowing that Wang Zheng had Ability X as well meant that this would no longer be an advantage.

"How good are Zhang Shan and Wang Zheng? It feels frightening that they can compete against Achilles for leadership." To Yuan Ye, who had no Ability X, he was both filled with admiration and wistful longing. The four Ares College students all had abilities, but only he was unable to awaken.

"I'm not too sure myself, but it's awesome for sure. We have to support Wang Zheng for leader, this nomination is his for sure!" Zhang Shan said.

In comparison to Achilles' aloofness, Lear's pretentiousness, and Lie Xin's arrogance, everyone generally preferred Wang Zheng. But the number of people remaining was not high, and everyone already had their affiliations. To change now was nearly impossible.

Wang Zheng's scores were slightly ahead, but the advantage was not huge. Could this slight edge be enough to overcome the reputation of the other three? It remained a huge problem.

Atos only returned after two days, and he had fallen behind considerably. His fingers had made a full recovery and his hatred for Wang Zheng had not diminished. To be accurate, he disdained everything about Earth.

To have lost face in front of so many had made Atos even more sullen. Even his friends were disapproving of his rage.

Only Taros treated him well, and in that period, Taros became his confidante.

In the end, all training was for the sake of battle. Atos kept harping on this point, having no intention of changing. He felt that this was a lost cause and that Earth's sh*tty training was meaningless. His results continued in the downward spiral.

Finally, the training reached its conclusion. Everybody was gathered together. Till the end, they had not had the chance to actually fight with mecha.

Zhang Jingqi surveyed the bunch of youths in front of him. In this period of training, their basics had been polished to excellence. Of course, he was aware that these youths thirsted for battle and to train with blood and fire. But this thinking was naïve. As a soldier, such opportunities would come by more often than one wished. In fact, it was at these times that one would look back longingly on the luxury of training.

"According to the training results, Wang Zheng, with a high score of 92 points, receives Earth's vote. Therefore, in the fight for leadership, Wang Zheng need only receive one more vote to become the official leader!"

As Zhang Jingqi spoke, the Ares College students burst into cheering. They had been waiting for this moment.

Wang Zheng's performance was the inhibitive type. It was as though he had been born for the training. Behind his back, he had become the instructor's pet. Whatever the instructor said, he followed to the letter. They had never seen someone so serious about it. Although everyone was serious during training, no one threw their heart and soul into every moment. They could not bring themselves to do it either, without the thrill of competition that is. But Wang Zheng had completed every last detail.

As long as the instructor set the task, he would finish it perfectly. On this point, he had been recognized by Zhang Jingqi. As a soldier, the most important thing was to carry out one's orders perfectly.

Although the saying went that those who only followed orders blindly were weak, Wang Zheng was not one of those.

What was curious was that Zhang Jingqi had a nagging feeling that Wang Zheng did not seem like a new soldier. His execution of orders was fairly flawless, as though it was like clockwork.

Besides a louder-than-average Zhang Shan, there was lackluster response from the rest. They did not know how to voice their dissatisfaction. They did not wholeheartedly agree with the vote.

In the end, it came down to the fact that Wang Zheng's solid foundations were not indicative of his true ability.

All it meant was that he was good at training.

But this was Earth, and Earthlings' decisions held water. Everybody knew that protests were futile and could only swallow the fact that their training skills were not the best.

A silent majority did not mean complete silence. Atos could not hold himself back.

He was clearly beyond caring.

"Sir!" Atos raised his hand.

"Speak."

"May I say my piece?" Atos said.

"Permission granted. Speak."

"Although foundation training is important, if you consider the Solar System, no, the Milky Way, such one-dimensional training only produces grunts, not leaders, let alone generals who can change the world. If our Solar System Federation is to break through, we need strong people with leadership, and not obedient babies. Excelling at training is useless. As you Earthlings say, only a race will tell if it's a stallion or a donkey!"

Atos said, completely ignoring the heated looks from Zhang Shan and the rest.

"For example, although Zhang Shan's results are significantly better than mine, if we switch to mecha, I can thrash him with ease!"

Atos had started to taunt the crowd again. Zhang Shan stared. He had pushed himself hard throughout this training in order to get his revenge as well.

No one else said anything, but their expressions were approving. Although the military had set the rules, they were not formal soldiers. Would they not consider some form of concession?

Zhang Jingqi quickly sized up the general sentiment, reading their expressions. He turned to Wang Zheng with a smile. "Wang Zheng, seems like some of them feel you haven't proved yourself fully yet. What are your thoughts?"

Wang Zheng smiled. As Bonehead would say, a snarling dog did not bite. While Bonehead had ruthlessly cured his bad habit of snarling a long time ago, the world was not the same."

"I welcome all challenges!" Wang Zheng replied.

"Excellent. As the last task of the training, to obtain this vote as leader, everyone is to accept challenges. The victor will obtain the vote. If a leader loses, they must give up leadership. If a member loses, they will be eliminated."

Zhang Jingqi stated. This was clearly no last minute decision, but something he had already prepared.

Zhang Jingqi wanted to convey a message to them: That if one wanted to gain something, one must pay the price. A person like Atos, who fought and gave up at a whim, had nothing but street-brawl attitude.

Everyone was exchanging glances. Who would have thought that after all that training, there would be such a golden opportunity in front of their eyes?

Challenge Wang Zheng!

Nobody actually knew Wang Zheng's true strength. Until now, nobody actually had the opportunity to fight with mecha.

He had proved he could drill, but how was his battle ability?

Risk and opportunity went hand in hand. Everyone could hear their hearts thumping loudly, evidently affected.

Chapter 272: Strength

Translator: Abyssruler Editor: Lucas

Who's going?

Who was going to go first?

Somebody go already!

A bunch of people eyed each other. They were not satisfied, but when it was time to step up, they all suddenly had cold feet. Wang Zheng had thrashed Atos and had stood his ground against Achilles. They had persevered so far. If they staked it all on one battle and were eliminated, they would feel cheated.

Furthermore, they would be challenging a leader.

Most members quickly calmed down. They recalled Wang Zheng's performance in the first phase and marked him as a silent but difficult opponent.

Atos sneered at the fearful atmosphere and was about to act, but he was stopped by Taros beside him, who shook his head.

Clearly Taros did not favor Atos in a fight against Wang Zheng.

Even though the average people did not respond, this did not mean that the other potential leaders would not respond either, right?

Atos had thought that Achilles would jump at the opportunity to eradicate Wang Zheng the moment the announcement was made. However, the Sun God stood by, motionless.

He felt a little let down. He had been peeved that Achilles had not assented to intervene on his behalf last time. Although Wang Zheng was a bastard, he had stood up for Zhang Shan. He, on the other hand, had two fingers broken and became a laughing stock to boot. Now he had set up this opportunity for Achilles, but Achilles did not act. When had the Sun God become such a coward?

Atos' resentment gave him pluck, but he found himself restrained by Taros' hand, which gripped him as firmly as a steel bar.

Achilles showed no signs of moving, as though the thought had not occurred to him. Lear too seemed to have heard nothing.

What… was going on?

Was Wang Zheng so scary?

In an instant, Wang Zheng's prestige rose significantly.

"Keke, Wang Zheng, when you came to Mars, I already wanted to learn from you. Well, since the opportunity has presented itself, let's get down to it." Raston stood up with a smile.

Wang Zheng answered his smile with one of his own. "Sure!"

Lie Xin was no fool. More accurately, those who came from the prestigious families were not prone to rash actions. Wang Zheng's Ability X could very well be C-rank. Acting without knowing what to expect could lead to no good outcome.

Achilles and Lear held back, and Lie Xin would too. If she had been alone, she would have challenged him without hesitation. But it was clear that whoever went against Wang Zheng first would come out looking badly compared to the other two.

These three were waiting to see who would twitch first. They were engaged in a contest of patience.

Raston could also be counted as one of the potential leaders – he was definitely qualified. To him, the leadership was secondary. What mattered to him was being chosen for the team. He wanted to go to Aslan. He longed to go to Aslan and test himself against the experts that came from all corners of the Milky Way. As a warrior, it was a dream to him.

Whether he made it as a leader or not was unimportant.

Furthermore, Wang Zheng would make a worthy opponent.

And as for Wang Zheng?

He had controlled himself for so long. It was not to say that he liked basic training – that would be a huge joke. To him, it was the most boring thing. He was simply mature enough to know what to do and what not to do. Beneath his fierce concentration was buried a fierce desire to rebel and a thirst for battle.

Control. He had tremendous self-control.

As Raston took the field, the students gave a cheer. It was a rare opportunity to fight, and everyone looked forward to a real battle.

Bata Type V, 1 on 1, practice mecha. Getting destroyed or surrendering counted as defeat.

In the desert practice arena, the two Bata Type Vs approached unhurriedly. The rest were watching silently from the sides.

Raston, hailed as the prince of Caragal, was praised with the title of King of Power. His ability was prodigious and well controlled, and his mecha handling was highly competent. He had heart and maturity beyond peers of his age, which enabled him to bring even more power to bear in battles.

"Table's open, table's open. Those who bet on Wang Zheng keep left. Those betting on Raston stay right. Don't miss your chance now!" Fatty Luo Fei had opened a betting table. He was clearly one who enjoyed watching the world burn.

Both mecha began a series of warm up movements. Nobody had thought that the dry and dreary Earth training would come to a conclusion with the most direct of battles.

"Lie Guang, who do you favor to win?" Lie Xin quietly asked. As the leader, she had to maintain her composure. She knew that if she had stepped up earlier, she might have won a lot of support, but she had resisted.

"Should be Raston. You know what he's capable of. In this battle, Ability X will definitely be used. However you look at it, Raston has a 60 percent chance of success.

Lie Xin did not reply. She was more worried about Wang Zheng's ability.

"Keke, a great opportunity to see what ability this punk Wang Zheng has," Taros said. "Achilles, it's really unlike you to pass up on such an opportunity."

Achilles merely smiled. "When the battle begins, you will understand. This stage is simply too small."

Taros smiled back mechanically. Achilles seemed a little timid. He understood Lear's personality well – he would never take a fight when there was even a slightest chance of losing.

Just as well, he could see for himself if Raston had grown any stronger in these last few years.

A breeze swept through. The harsh sunlight continued to beat down on the arena. Both mecha were ready now.

Tap tap tap tap tap tap…

Both Bata Type Vs started moving at the same time, rushing ferociously towards the opponent, with titanium blades out.

BOOM.

The blades clashed in a shower of sparks, filling the arena with a piercing sound. At the same time, their engines rumbled, Raston's fist flying out, while Wang Zheng's knee jerked upwards.

BOOM.

Both mecha fighters leaped apart with a rotation, creating some distance. They had both dodged the opponent's attack. After spinning around, Raston seized the initiative. Their brief clash had given Raston a rough gauge of his opponent's power.

An interesting fight! It had been so long since he had found an opponent that could get his blood pumping.

Power and one's explosive movement determined the upper hand.

What made Raston's physical state fearsome was his faster-than-normal recovery times, and in his explosive attack, could counter-attack just a hair of a second faster.

His Bata Type V had already attacked before Wang Zheng. As his titanium blade cleaved downwards, Wang Zheng, who had lost the initiative, could only defend.

CRASH…

The force of the blow was earth-shattering.

After the deafening sound, Wang Zheng's Bata Type V was steadily forced back. The desert terrain was not suited for a solid defense. Once forced on the backfoot, gaps in the defense would readily present themselves.

Raston seemed to have become a different person. Under his deft handling, the Bata Type V moved as though it was a super-class mech, its titanium blades gleaming under the sunlight, again cleaving down.

CRASH.

Raston's attack patterns were unusual. His rhythm was good, defending as he attacked. It was deceptively slow, but he was actually moving with speed and fury. Not a single blow was lacking in power, and no opponent could recover quickly.

CRASH.

Raston's footwork was not lacking either. It complemented his energy and his slashes, leaving Wang Zheng no other option but to continue backing up. If it was not for Wang Zheng's own solid foundations, he would long have been cut to pieces.

"What did I say? This fellow is just a load of talk. Him as captain? Pigs would fly!" Atos spat viciously on the floor.

"Atos, some manners." Milo frowned.

"Milo, what makes you bend over backward and speak up for him?"

"I'm not speaking up for anybody. I'm just saying we represent the Moon here. It's best to speak with our actions."

Milo could not resist retorting. Due to Atos' inciting behavior, everybody else had started to look at the Moon with an unfavorable eye. This would affect Achilles' reputation as well. Although the opinion would probably not be voiced, it would undoubtedly affect the larger scheme of things.

"Tch. Aren't I speaking with my actions now? Without me, there wouldn't be this opportunity to beat this brat up!"

Atos boasted complacently.

"Enough! The battle is not over yet." Achilles glared at Atos, a warning look in his eyes.

He was not one to lose control easily, but Atos' repeated taunts were wearing on his nerves.

Atos mumbled a little to himself, but he held his tongue. Everyone else was focused on the arena, oblivious to Atos' venomous outburst.

Wang Zheng, who had been defending all the while, finally could no longer keep it up and was sent flying by Raston.

But Raston did not press forward. He realized that the blow had lacked sufficient power, and Wang Zheng had used it to spring himself back. If he had recklessly pressed forward, he would have been vulnerable to a counter-attack.

Wang Zheng was surprised by Raston's coolness as well. His Bata mech skidded seven or eight meters and circled to a stable halt.

It was a good feeling. The long treks had left him with no unfamiliarity with the mech. It had helped Wang Zheng to complete the harmonization with the mech.

The Bata Type V crept forward. With a roar of the engine bursting to life, Wang Zheng attacked.

Tap tap tap tap tap tap…

The mech cut towards Raston, flashing with the harsh sunlight that hurt to look at. Raston was unaffected. No big deal.

BOOM.

Raising a blade to block, Raston was unconcerned with any direct attack.

However, his expression suddenly changed. After a fumbled response, his titanium blade had been knocked over.

What ferocious power!

A judgement error.

He immediately cut downwards with his titanium blade. As expected of Raston. A normal person would have been left undone by such an error, but with his explosive power, Raston forced the blade back in a reverse cut.

He did not block. In this situation, he would have been too slow to block. A life for a life; a good offense was the best defense.

Nobody expected such risky moves in the second clash. How could Raston have slipped up?

Wang Zheng would not exchange blows with him. With a violent whirl of the mech, he swiped the opponent's attack aside with a shrill screech of the blades. He followed it up with a roundhouse kick that Raston completely failed to respond to. A direct hit.

The Bata mech was sent flying back, and Raston immediately resisted it forcefully. To think that he took a direct kick.

Wang Zheng did not press. He smiled. "Raston, show me your true strength, or the crowd is going to be disappointed."

Wang Zheng was trying to tell him that this level of ability would not be sufficient to subdue him.

Raston smiled too. He was also one of those with strong foundations, and the most troublesome opponent was someone as stable as he was. One could not tell before clashing with Wang Zheng that he was a monster in action.

Raston's Bata Type V growled. Gunning his engine, his titanium blade was raised high.

WHOOSH.

The mech exploded forward, advancing!

A chop from up high!

As the titanium blade scythed downwards viciously, wielded by the fearsome strength of Raston, a whistle could be heard as it sliced the air. Being cut by such an attack would be no fun matter.