1012 - 1022

Chapter 1012: A Unique Eye

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

"Who would have thought I'd see you here? Keke, I haven't seen your father. Is he alright?"

It was Borg Group's director general York, who was a former important business associate of the Tadinger Group. He was also a legendary one back in the day, but they eventually parted ways. Notably, his daughter was also with him. She was a sexy and fashionably made-up girl, and she had almost become Jasper's wife at one point. But in the end, Jasper's "footloose-ness" had compounded with the groups' disagreements. Put simply, York would not let his daughter marry a useless creature.

York was indeed surprised to see Jasper here. Access to the Maple Leaf Club was not just something that money could buy. This was a club for the truly successful, not a playground for second generation heirs. Although he had heard that this kid had shown signs of redemption recently, he was still not qualified.

Jasper nodded politely. He was more restrained now. "My father's health is good. He has been planning a vacation recently, and handed over the management of the family to this incompetent son of his. Ms. Lais, it's been some time. You are as charming as ever."

Back then, Jasper being abandoned from the circle had been a topic of no small import. Of course, Jasper did not care back then.

"Keke, the young must swallow their pride and learn. There is a salon on the 17th floor. Shall I introduce some seniors to you? They are all powerful people. You know how much I love to groom youngsters." York did not think that the cowering boy who had not dared to meet his eyes back then would hold his head high now."

"I'm waiting for my girlfriend, I won't impose. Lais, you're not that young anymore either. Stop playing around with those hooligans all day, and put Uncle's heart at rest," Jasper said warmly.

Lais rolled her eyes at Jasper. "Speak for yourself. Your status is becoming worse and worse. Is this fatty your new lackey? Couldn't find one that resembled a human more?"

"Lais, watch your language. Mr. Yan is an important guest."

"Guest? This guy with the big head and stubby neck? One look and you know he's nothing more than a hawker. I thought you had made progress. Clearly, the rumors are not to be believed," Lais said mockingly.

Yan Xiaosu rubbed his nose. This wench had a mean look. But in truth, Little Lucky Star was indeed a small business.

"Jasper, youngsters cannot be full of themselves just because they have some modest accomplishment. One must be humble, or one will fall." York's smile was sanctimonious.

"Old geezer, can you stop putting on airs? And you, with the big eyes and slim waist, what are you trying to do, twisting yourself like that, seduce me? You couldn't pay me to take her."

Yan Xiaosu was not as courteous. D*mn the place, sometimes people just climbed all over your head when you were being nice.

At that moment, York was so angry, he could barely breathe. "Guards!"

Maple Leaf's service was indeed good. Immediately, personnel hurried over, clearly recognizing York.

York's hands were trembling with anger. "Throw this bastard out. When did this club become such a mess, letting such unsavory characters in!"

A few staff immediately surrounded them. One look at Yan Xiaosu and they knew he was not of Lya Sphinx. Jasper they knew, as a member, but his rank was not high enough. And this fatty looked like his lackey.

"Mr. Jasper, could I invite your subordinate to the recess room to wait? Just to avoid misunderstandings," the staff said very politely.

Jasper was angry as well. This was on his own head. He had lost face now. He had to make things right. How should he do it?

The other louts crowded up. At this moment, clear laughter interrupted Jasper.

Laurel had arrived.

"Isn't this Mr. York? What has got you so riled up?" Laurel had come over like a fresh wind. Her rank was on a completely different level.

"Laurel, you're here." Jasper smiled and took her hand. "These disdainful bastards."

Lais was shocked. Laurel was a goddess-level person in their circle. She and Jasper… how could this be possible?

"Mr. York, I feel like you may have made a mistake. Mr. Yan Xiaosu is Mr. Sam Green's important guest. Your bad manners could besmirch the reputation of our Lya Sphinx. If I were you, this would be a good time to offer an apology, wouldn't it?" Laurel continued smiling.

The moment he heard "Sam Green," York started. Actually, they had all heard the news, only no one knew that Sam Green was actually here to meet this unremarkable fatty.

"Keke, a mistake. Lais, let us go."

But Laurel laughed. "Mr, York, if you leave just like that, how can I ever explain it to these honored guests? Lais is young and immature. Surely you are not also immature."

This last remark demonstrated Laurel's queenly aura. Yan Xiaosu stood smiling wordlessly. He had purposely blown up the matter, because he wanted to see the other party's reaction.

York's face stiffened. Clearly, many thoughts had flashed across his mind, but he readily smiled. "Mr. Yan, I am so sorry. My daughter is young and immature…"

"Keke, Mr. York, she is old enough to be a mother. But a magnanimous guy like me is very forgiving. We'll let this matter go. Shoo, shoo, don't waste my precious time."

York's anger was unbelievable. Were these three young b*stards trying to pick a fight? He puffed up, only to realize that Sam Green's niece had come out… His enraged expression immediately turned genial.

Sam Green was watching this scene from the meeting room. His son, Little Green, was frowning.

Sam Green smiled slightly. "Are you dissatisfied?"

"Father, this person is young and brazen, and has the air of a bully. Setting aside the issue of how qualified he is to talk business, just his upbringing alone is out of the question," Little Green said mildly. These young heirs had begun to build their own empires, and he had not approved of his father sending his own daughter down to save the situation.

Old Sam laughed. "What do you think of the girl Laurel?"

Little Green was quiet for a beat. "Steady and dependable, a unique eye, and one of the excellent ones among our younger generation at Lya Sphinx."

"Then why did you not watch her reaction?" Sam Green quietly prompted.

Little Green brooded for a while. Laurel was the unstated leader of the younger generation, and wise to the ways of the world. Logically, a character like Yan Xiaosu should have been someone she would hate to meet. But contrary to that, Laurel's aggressiveness was completely inconsistent with that logic.

"Father, you mean this Yan Xiaosu is more than meets the eye?"

"You shouldn't look down on youngsters nowadays. To make Laurel act this way, ability is not enough. It means that Laurel trusts the character of this fatty, and is willing to offend others for his sake. This means that any business with this fatty is dependable." Sam Green gently knocked the table.

Little Green said no more. He too was a smart man, but age was still experience.

If Tita Star wanted to expand, it must pass the Sam Green family. That was why Laurel had brought Yan Xiaosu and Jasper for a talk. As for success, she had no guarantees either.

She had been worried that the incident downstairs would leave a bad impression on Sam Green, but on the contrary, Sam Green was very welcoming. And Yan Xiaosu's pitch had no "tricks." He was open about everything.

This was real art. Against a wily old fox, sometimes honesty was the best policy.

That was why Tyrant Su was also a smart man.

Chapter 1013: En garde!

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

At Elite Academy X, the last round of the Greatest King competition was about to begin. The last round was also the most glorious one. To Aslan, it was extremely important.

There was a little snag over at Imperial Glory. Aslan's second princess' coming of age ceremony was nearing, and she had returned home, unable to support this glorious battle. Of course, some had said that the little princess was extremely disappointed with the Imperial Glory battle team.

No matter the reason, everyone knew that all the burden had now shifted from the Saruman Snake battle team to the Imperial Glory battle team.

Whether a small fry or big shot, psychological advantages would change anytime. The glory of being a former big shot was a burden at this time. Others could afford to lose, but the Imperial Glory battle team could not afford to lose, and did not want to lose.

If their loss against the Asura battle team was a hard clash that they had no choice about, then against the Saruman Snake battle team, they could not lose again. Otherwise, the loss in the finals would be the biggest embarrassment of the Imperial Glory battle team.

This was in the case where Princess Aina had personally overseen the battle team. For a week, the entire Aslan battle team was not to be seen, clearly preparing for this last battle.

The advantageous news was that Saruman Snake's lineup was really bad. Their main scout and main fighter were absent, and it seemed like everything was up to Wang Zheng, the super fighter.

Although the Greatest King competition's purpose was to demonstrate a battle team, who knew? There were many times when humans needed heroism, where an individual hero stepped up.

For the last battle. Elite Academy X had turned out in full force as well, to witness this historical moment. Of course, a competition that drew very little concern had now become one that drew the most concern.

Imperial Glory battle team:

Heracles – Phantom King

It was very clear before the competition, as though the Atlanteans had suddenly rallied and actively sought to take the leadership. He had previously not displayed any startling potential, and many students were rather unsatisfied. They found it hard to accept this midway show of bravado from the Atlanteans. And they were facing an Earth-rank soldier. What were these Atlanteans to them?

But the Imperial Glory battle team had given him some trust.

Lu Die – M200 Oracle mech.

Annil – Imperial Guardian

Jin Yaoer – Wasp Sting M

Di Maria – BS001

Di Maria was not as spirited as before. His handsome features were grave and solemn. The battle with Asura had completely eradicated his arrogance.

But Asura was in no great position either. Offstage, the Asura battle team members were expressionless. In truth, the Arbiters were not well suited to such situations. It had been who knew how many years since they were reduced to spectators.

Today's battle outcome meant nothing to them, but still they had to come.

In terms of quality, the Arbiters were far better than Imperial Glory because Olivios had beaten his way into Earth-rank through one competition. This was no small feat, but many had overlooked it.

There were many obstacles on the path to Earth-rank. Marzu was a given, but Olivios was about the same age as Wang Zheng. The moment he entered Earth-rank, it was hard to tell the distance between the two.

He had lost his vanity, but gained ability.

But if Imperial Glory lost this, they would have nothing and not double. Saruman Snake was already in such a state, and they had no way out.

Di Maria, who had relinquished the right of command, had his complaints, but it could not be helped, because he could not offer a better tactic. After all, he was not an Earth-rank fighter. But Di Maria looked down on the Earth rank because Wang Zheng had no talent, only some foundations. Unlike him, with both time and talent. Di Maria saw his entry into Earth-rank as a given. That sort of resistance ability had nothing to him.

To him, who was close to Earth-rank himself, he was not helpless when faced with Earth-rank fighters. His Ability X was not bad, only his comprehension was not on the same level.

This would come down to tactics. At the same time, they would see if Heracles was as useful as he made out to be.

Saruman Snake battle team:

Mu Zhen – Giant mech.

Lie Xin – Flaming Elite Guard.

Oli – Overlord mech.

Takumi – Earthly Grizzly.

Neither side could see others' choices, but the audience could see it clearly. The Saruman Snake battle team was… The best housewife could not cook without rice.

They already had blanks to fill in their positions. Who would have thought that they would directly give up on the sniper position? Below stage, Snow Li was a little worried. Oli was not bad at all, but she was not a specialized sniper. It would be a hopeless matchup against Lu Die.

But two tanks, that was really useless. Because of Mu Zhen, one tank was enough. But there was no choice, because Takumi was an honest-to-goodness tank. If you gave him any other type of mech, he would not be able to fight well at all.

It could be said that at this stage, their formation had no silver lining to speak off. Not just silver linings, the whole thing was painful to look at.

In comparison, Imperial Glory had a completely balanced lineup. Such a lineup would get thrashed. Were they counting on Wang Zheng to win this alone?

But the Saruman Snake battle team members looked fairly composed. This would make a great feature article. Any soldier that did not aim to be a general was not a good soldier. At this stage, if the Saruman Snake battle team was not aiming for the win, it would be very strange indeed.

When the mech appeared, the audience was silent. "Professor Jiang Feng, do you think Wang Zheng can 1 v 5?" Ka Tao asked. He was not asking blindly. But only Jiang Feng could properly weigh the fighting power of an Earth-rank fighter, which was Wang Zheng's current fighting ability.

Jiang Feng smiled slightly. "Even an Earth-rank fighter cannot face a synergistic battle team. Everyone, please do not blindly worship the power of Earth-rankers. To my knowledge, too many Earth-rank fighters fight their own Waterloo."

"Thank you, Teacher Jiang Feng. Given our current popularity polls, the Saruman Snake battle team and the Imperial Glory battle team are basically even," Ka Tao said.

Everyone could see the judgment of the various major military school students. The Saruman Snake battle team was originally higher, but everyone had seen the lineup gaps and the un-synergistic choice of mecha. The Imperial Glory battle team started to rise. And as Jiang Feng spoke, the support percentage of the Imperial Glory battle team rose a little more.

But Wang Zheng's reputation after that battle with Asura was too incredible. As long as he was there, he was a rock for the battle team.

Faced with such a frustrating lineup, what would Wang Zheng do?

Hercules?

Against Imperial Glory, such a sluggish mech would not work. The battle with Asura had ended up that way because of the information gap, paired with Wang Zheng's accurate anticipation of Asura's strong offensive tactics. He had chosen a defensive counter attacker Hercules, and indeed created a miracle.

In that battle, he had made the whole world see that basic mech for what it was. It was said that many countries had bought fleets of Herculeses after that. The mech's stability was astonishing. Simply put, it was of good quality.

But against these mobile sprites of the Imperial Glory battle team with a balanced line up, he would be beaten up without even touching base if Wang Zheng dared to choose the Hercules.

As Ka Tao and Xue Yue continued to analyze the lineup and situation, everyone settled in. Earth-rank fighters were still human, and not gods. A cannon did not make a man.

Wang Zheng was evidently still considering. Tactics?

Well, honestly, there was no f*cking use, because the lineup and reality of things were clearly displayed. At this moment, all the Saruman Snake battle team could do was muster up their spirit and let everyone choose what they were best at. In the end, seeking strength was a better choice than seeking synergy.

Wang Zheng had to prepare himself to take a 1 v 5. As the leader, he had to shoulder the responsibilities he should.

Phantom King?

The crowd argued. It had said that Atlanteans had discussed before the competition. Phantom King to fight Phantom King. Footage of Wang Zheng's heyday at IG had been unearthed. With one Phantom King, he had laid the Atlantean battle team bare. Only then did the kids know that Student Wang was already awesome a long time ago, and not just on the stage of Elite Academy X.

This was why the Atlanteans were out to get Wang Zheng.

The free-moving Phantom King was not a bad choice. Many thought so.

But Jiang Feng, Marzu, Olivios, and the rest frowned. Wang Zheng naturally used the Phantom King sublimely, but there was no luck in battle. The way they saw it, the rest of Saruman Snake could not render much help. As the leader, he had to plan for the worst.

The Phantom King's mobility and attack power were indeed strong, but Wang Zheng should not forget something. Di Maria, although he had lost, was indeed a genius. In Elite Academy X, his Ability X quality was the highest. The Phantom King was a mech that could be repressed by his ability. Once it entered the time swamp, the Phantom King would die without question. Besides, the Phantom King did not have the defensive power of the Hercules.

If Wang Zheng chose the Phantom King, then things would be difficult.

But what to choose?

Wang Zheng's mecha inventory switched to the Storm Swordsman.

This was undoubtedly a model with incredible attacking power that could show off his techniques. But choosing the Storm Swordsman was not as good as the Phantom King. After all, the Phantom King had better evasive capabilities.

Wind God? Immediately abandoned.

Better not treat the Imperial Glory people as idiots. Wind God, once it entered the fray would definitely be unable to exit.

Golden Wheel Battle King?

Use his battle teammates as shields and let him wreak havoc to the fullest?

It has to be said that when the Golden Wheel Battle King was shown, the Manalasuo people cheered. Wang Zheng had acknowledged the Golden Wheel Battle King. That was an honor.

Everyone knew that Wang Zheng would have to pull his battle team from the fire for this battle.

The Golden Wheel Battle King's killing power and attack style were definitely good enough.

But the problem was still obvious. Although the Golden Wheel Battle King was the king of moderately damaging attacks, against Di Maria and Heracles, that was of no f*cking use.

After all, those two were not normal humans.

In that instant, countless military students started to see this as truly impossible. For one person to take on the universe alone was not possible. No matter what Wang Zheng chose, he could not best the current lineup.

It was the first time that those close to Wang Zheng started to worry for him.

Zhang Shan and Achilles, as the wounded, could only sit above. Nothing could be done, and panicking would not be helpful at all.

Just when everyone was at a loss, Wang Zheng's mech was locked in.

Everyone's eyes popped. This, could it really work???

Wang Zheng was smiling a little. A cheeky smile.

Arbiter–Slayer!

It was time to unsheathe his sword!

Chapter 1014: Dread

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Both sides' pilots entered the preparation phase, but Wang Zheng's choice had thrown them all off.

Everyone knew that there were five pros in the Solar System that had made a name based on their physical techniques. Achilles' organization skills, Lie Xin's bravery, Lear's intellect, Zhang Shan's agility, and Wang Zheng's might. But they had never heard of the Solar System people specializing in shooting mecha.

Especially Wang Zheng. His fearsome physical skills needed a powerful mech to reflect that. Just like in the battle with Asura, his steel had already reached their hearts. It could be said that no one was willing to enter a direct clash against Wang Zheng. At present, he had already carved an aura of invincibility.

Even a mech like the Golden Wheel Battle King in Wang Zheng's hands was extremely frightening.

But Wang Zheng had actually chosen the Slayer. This mech was an offensive fighter. If the Golden Wheel Battle King could be said to be an excellent conduit for Wang Zheng's Ability X, then the Slayer seemed to be quite a poor fit. Besides, although both the Slayer and the Golden Wheel Battle King had made their names through close-up fights, but they were two completely different mecha. The Golden Wheel Battle King was an unconventional approach, while the Slayer was a stickler for tradition.

This mech's defensive abilities were too weak. Even Olivios had only used the mech on the basis of his short camouflage ability.

And now they were facing the mobile Imperial Glory battle team. Wang Zheng had actually chosen the Slayer. Whether it was the BS001 or the Phantom King, they were both the nemesis of Slayer.

What was Wang Zheng playing at???

And the biggest question was, when had he ever used the Slayer???

Sharpening a sword at the last minute against Imperial Glory was no use at all. Besides, what thinking was this? Why would he choose this mech? Even the Golden Wheel Battle King was stronger than the Slayer.

"I'm reeling as well. Am I dumb, or is Wang Zheng way ahead of the game? Even if you used your butt to think, you would know that you can't choose such a mech!"

"It's all a mess now. How can the Slayer do well? If I were Imperial Glory, I would let the scout and the Phantom King go ahead. Even someone with godlike abilities would lose!"

A pilot's skills and ability would be discounted heavily in a mech. If the affinity of the mech was at a disadvantage, then the distance would further lessen. This was a known fact.

Everyone's hearts sank after seeing Wang Zheng's choice.

Whether they understood tactics or not, they felt it was a bad choice.

But after all, it was Wang Zheng. Anyone else, and they would have been scolded like a dog. But after Wang Zheng chose the mech, they only felt puzzled and ignorant, but not many dared to question him.

"Zhang Shan, you understand Wang Zheng best among us. Has he used this mech before in the past?" Dendi could not help asking. "Vincent, have you seen it before?"

Vincent thought about it. "I seem to recall him training it before. But Wang Zheng is interested in many mecha. I've never actually seen him use it in battle."

Zhang Shan shrugged. "I don't know either. He must have used it before. But like Vincent said, never in a formal competition. The Slayer's attack is sufficient, and it's more agile than the Golden Wheel Battle King. Perhaps Wang Zheng is aiming for a breakthrough."

Vincent shook his head. "The Slayer is a little more versatile, but its attacks are rigid. Against Imperial Glory, it's too dangerous. We can only look to Takumi and Mu Zhen and hope they can withstand the enemy's attack."

Dendi and Pampas clearly did not think much of it. They were not buying it at all. At least from their level, and their way of thinking, the Slayer could not save this match.

But neither thought that Wang Zheng was the kind of person to give up. At this level, someone who had entered Earth-rank at 20 years old would not know what surrender meant.

Marzu looked over at Olivios. The loss had not hit Olivios too hard. Perhaps because he had lost once before, and perhaps because of the pleasure of entering Earth-rank, Olivios was in an exceptionally good mood. As for Marzu, he seemed stressed. But to Olivios, who understood Marzu, he felt a little odd. Even when stressed, those of the Van family should not show it outwardly. But Marzu had. This seemed a little too fishy to be a cover-up.

Olivios seriously suspected that Marzu had held back in the last hit, in order to create a chance for him to break through. Of course, this was Olivios' individual guess. It was like a riddle with no answer. At the same time, he needed one.

"The Slayer's attack is sufficient. Actually, those with strong cultivation techniques can support the Slayer and the Golden Wheel Battle King for the same reasons. Although its attack trajectory is not as swift, its mobility and savagery are a step ahead. The Golden Wheel Battle King is suitable for bullying noobs, while the Slayer is the real pro's choice. A pity that the Slayer, like the Golden Wheel Battle King, lacks protection at this level."

Even Olivios, with his temporary camouflage ability, would not dare to use the Slayer at this level.

He had spent a long time adjusting himself to this. If Wang Zheng was half-baked, then it would be a dud.

But given what they knew of Wang Zheng, that did not seem likely. But Wang Zheng's specialties were not few. Hercules, Storm Swordsman, Wind God, Golden Wheel Battle King, Phantom King, Heavenly Dragon Knight. They spanned many positions and models. When you thought about it, it was pretty frightening.

Slayer…

The Arbiters did not feel particularly pleased or honored. They were on a different level from the Manalasuo people. If Wang Zheng's Slayer came up with some new trick, they would only feel even more pressure.

This was the same logic as with the Phantom King.

Aina quietly awaited the beginning of the fight. Huiyin, that girl. She had really left as she said. She did not know why. Perhaps girls who were infatuated were fickle. But thinking it over, perhaps it was for the best. Given time to calm down, Huiyin would be clearer if her decision had been the right one, or a moment of impulse. She had been worried at the start, but now she saw that Huiyin had really matured.

In this battle, Aina was definitely standing on Imperial Glory's side. No matter how she felt about Wang Zheng, this concerned national honor. Before the battle, Aina had cheered them on considerably. In this battle, they had to shelve their illusory pride and seriously demonstrate the majesty of the Imperial Glory battle team. The style of Aslan.

As a fighter, they were not afraid of losing the fight. They were afraid of the fight they could not afford to lose.

10 mech pilots appeared on the battlefield. On Imperial Glory's side, they had thought that Wang Zheng would choose a fighter mech, or at least something very similar.

Both sides advanced in a tight arc. At this level, clearly any 1 v 1 heroics were quelled. The more important the battle was, the more they would use flashy moves.

A straight-on clash, and both sides had their fears. Imperial Glory dreaded Wang Zheng, and Saruman Snake dreaded Di Maria's ability, especially at the crucial moment. This was always on the minds of the Saruman Snake battle team. No matter whether Atlantis really was capable or otherwise, they had already achieved their aim. One could never tell if battle tactics were as straightforward as they seemed.

Both sides' pilots approached. Very quickly, both lineups changed almost at the same time. This was getting interesting, both sides were doing something big at the same time!

Chapter 1015: Imperial Glory's Chance

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

The first to change formation was the Imperial Glory battle team. Their five lanes became two. Heracles, piloting Phantom King, was solo. The other four were led by Di Maria down the middle lane. Clearly, Di Maria had confidence in his Ability X. Basically, those like Marzu who were almost immune to Ability X were fatal against Di Maria. But not everyone had Marzu's abilities, especially Wang Zheng. Wang Zheng's cultivation technique was very strong, but Di Maria's abilities were a perfect counter to Wang Zheng's.

Most crucially, the moment they clashed here, the Phantom King could be used at its fullest to make a tactical choice. It could advance alone, and also flank and gang.

But soon after, Imperial Glory changed formations. The Saruman Snake battle team also changed formations. Only Wang Zheng was left on the middle route, with the other four clustering tightly.

Both sides' formation changes left the audience gaping. If Imperial Glory's change had some logic to it because advance and retreat were within their control, then what was Saruman Snake playing at?

Wang Zheng had chosen the Slayer but went solo mid. Was he trying to save the world? Or get mobbed to death?

If Saruman Snake's tactic was banking on a group battle from Imperial Glory, then Wang Zheng could have chosen the Wind God, which could both advance and retreat. At least given Wang Zheng's abilities, he could suppress them at a certain level with no problems. But he had chosen the Slayer.

With any other person in charge of Saruman Snake, they might have used the other four to suppress, and let Wang Zheng be the core. Or even let him be a solo surprise attacker.

Both sides had perhaps thought of this method to break open the situation. But unfortunately, Heracles' Phantom King would meet the four led by Lie Xin. A scout, a fighter and two tanks against Phantom King was not the best of choices. At least these four had little hope of pinning down Phantom King.

And Wang Zheng was even worse off. He would meet, alone, the balanced lineup led by Di Maria. A fighter, a scout, a tank, a sniper.

A perfect mini lineup.

Both sides for now clearly did not know the opponent's movements, but the situation was starting to lean towards the Imperial Glory battle team. In terms of numbers, the disadvantaged Phantom King on Imperial Glory's side could advance or retreat, while on Saruman Snake's side, once Wang Zheng entered the attack radius, he could not retreat even if he wanted to.

Advance…

Nobody knew what was going to happen. Which brain-dead person had cooked up these tactics?

If assumed that Wang Zheng could use the Slayer on a godlike level, then he should have stuck to the group, and let Mu Zhen and Takumi be the sacrificial tank defenses. Let Lie Xin deal with the scout, and let Oli's Overlord be the X factor.

Ai Xiaolu and Luo Er were very composed, but many eyes were turned to Ai Xiaolu. It was rumored that this Hail Cloud person was of Saruman Snake's battle team. She must have considerable say. This tactic would not be hers, would it?

Completely illogical.

Luo Er had not come for the last battle's planning. She had her own matters to attend to. But at this stage, she was full of curiosity, although she would not verbalize it.

She would judge for herself, and needed to judge for herself. In terms of battle tactics, this was definitely not viable. Whether they were fighting a line battle or a group battle, they should neither do this, nor choose this mech.

Where was the variable at play?

The Arbiter girl Oli?

She had always been a reserve, and fresh to the battle. Her performance had been average, and not remarkable.

One could not always look for a miracle every time. If miracles were so common, then that word would not exist.

Ai Xiaolu paid no heed. Her thoughts were not even here. Lin Huiyin had left. Ai Xiaolu felt that this little princess was rather pitiful. Faced with this situation, she had chosen to leave.

This was probably the smart choice. Why persist if one knew it was impossible? It was foolish. That was why Aslan people were sometimes called clever.

From a different angle, Aina had lost her memory, and this must be the best chance. But one look at Huiyin and you knew she could not do that sort of thing. One could also feel that Aina truly loved her sister, and even entrusted her beautiful dreams to Lin Huiyin.

But Ai Xiaolu would not leave. Because she felt that when no one else had a chance, then she might have a chance. Besides, she had confidence in this regard. When guys were in school, they needed a girlfriend with "the right feeling". But once he graduated, he would see women with a different standard and a different eye.

They were all young. She could wait. All she had to do was follow in Wang Zheng's footsteps.

As for Aina, that was just their fate, just like Saruman Snake and Imperial Glory must fight for victory.

Wang Zheng would not give way for Aina's sake, and Aina would not retreat for Wang Zheng.

As long as there was life, there would never be a simple self.

On both routes, the mecha from both sides neared. Out of habit, at these crucial periods, the mech would enter stealth mode, and advance based on strength alone.

But this time was very short. Waiting for the enemy to come to you was not viable in such battles. It was too risky. Initiative was an advantage.

Especially when you had the numbers.

Jin Yaoer made his move, and as a scout, his keen senses had realized something. A hand gesture, and Imperial Glory's mech fighters responded instantly, leaping into action.

Wang Zheng's reactions did not seem as fast. In an instant, the enemy four mecha had already surrounded him from four directions and locked on their target.

When they saw the Slayer, all of them had a fright. But almost instantly, Di Maria made the call.

They had netted the big fish!

Among the Saruman Snake battle team, the only one who would use an "unconventional" fighter like the Slayer must be Wang Zheng!

An ambush???

This was the thought that immediately sprung to Di Maria's mind, and also the rest. They were wary for an instant.

But at this crucial moment, the Phantom King sent a message. The other four were with him.

Perfect!

A look of uncontrollable happiness appeared on Di Maria's face. Heaven was with him. The Phantom King's mobility could completely hold off the other four, and he did not care about whether these Atlanteans lived or died. Best if they all die together, they had stolen his leadership and still acted cool.

The important thing was if they finished off Wang Zheng, this match would be over.

One Slayer, watch yourself fall!

With a command, Jin Yaoer had already rushed over. Annil hooted. At this moment, the gentle girl suddenly became a beast. Huiyin's departure had caused Annil and Lu Die to be extremely angry. They would not warmly look on it as a first love. It was all because of Wang Zheng, that bastard, who had hurt their happy little princess.

Lu Die immediately entered a state. She did not need to hide, or even defend herself, because there was only one opponent. Di Maria was smarter now. Although the advantage was unbelievably huge, he had advanced at the first instance as well, observing. One fatal blow!

This battle needed no support!

Chapter 1016: Mysterious Phantom

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Wang Zheng was surrounded well and good. What would he do?

He reacted almost instantly. As an Earth-rank fighter, how could he be slow?

Everyone thought that Wang Zheng had chosen the Slayer to slay. After all, he was Earth-rank. Even against four, even against IG kings. Marzu could do it, and Wang Zheng could as well.

But the Slayer retreated. Wang Zheng's wind ability boosted the mech. The Slayer made an emergency turn, and escaped the killing formation of the four enemies.

All of them, including Di Maria, were a little surprised. They… had not expected Wang Zheng to run…

Those like Wang Zheng, Marzu, Olivios, they were the brainless rush-in-and-kill types. To retreat?

Clearly, they could not let the Slayer go. Even with wind ability's boost, did he think they would let him escape?

On the other side, the Saruman Snake battle team's four had met with the Phantom King, and Heracles' Phantom King had no intention of dodging.

Mu Zhen knew what he had to do. On this stage, he represented the Tita people.

A Tita brave, faced with a non-human, the first race, the Atlantean. The highest intellectual tribe.

To the Tita brave, his will for battle was lit.

Ferocious wind ability, combined with the towering Giant mech, made it seem like an avalanche was rushing towards the Phantom King.

Takumi followed behind the Giant mech closely, prepared to act at any time. Oli and Lie Xin similarly prepared themselves.

Heracles' Phantom King had not seemed particularly outstanding before. Compared to Marzu, he had not displayed the battle power expected. This had made Atlantis seem like one to pick on the weak and fear the strong. It had to have been their slim physiques. They were not tough enough. This was the way that humans sought to deal with Atlanteans.

Hong…

The giants' tremendous Ability X could not make their Giant mecha agile, but could nevertheless pose a threat.

Imbued with tremendous Ability X, the huge sword cleaved towards the Phantom King. This horizontal sweep was filled with intense energy. A hurricane was whipped up, and this immediately affected any smaller mecha.

BOOM…

The Phantom King disappeared.

Illusion ability used!

But in that instant where the Phantom King appeared, there was a huge sound. Takumi's Earthly Grizzly rushed over, aiming for the gap where the illusion faded.

The Phantom King's ability was marvelous, but the moment its marvel was brought to light, there was nothing mysterious about it anymore. Borrowing Mu Zhen's group wind ability, Takumi's movements were quite ferocious as well. There was nothing much to guard against. All-out attack, even if he fell with the enemy!

The Phantom King's greatest problem was that it had no energy shields. Runes had their uses, and also their shortcomings.

Hong…

Hong…

The savage Earthly Grizzly thundered towards the Phantom King. As an iconic member of White Tiger Region, Takumi lived up to his name. Under Wang Zheng's shine, each member actually had their own abilities and specialties that made them qualified to stand on this stage. Perhaps they were not as flashy, but their abilities were definitely beyond question. They only did not shine because their opponents were equally fearsome.

BOOM…

Missed!

Takumi's target was actually an illusion. But the problem was that Wang Zheng also understood the Phantom King very well. And as his teammates, Takumi and the rest would definitely not be taken in by Heracles' performance.

Although slowed by a beat, the Giant mech had already sent a fist flying towards the illusion.

BOOM…

This fist hit something solid!!!

Heracles' runic sword blocked the Giant mech's huge fist. With a deafening sound, the ground fissured, a testament to the giants' terrifying strength. The most important thing was that Mu Zhen's punch was not a direct hit, but directed downwards, to prevent Heracles from using the energy to escape!

It was all about the details!

Who said that giants were all brawn and no brain?

But this was just the beginning. This punch created a huge rebound of energy which pinned Heracles. At the same time, the Overlord had already charged its Sky Rocket Cannon and had rushed towards the Phantom King.

From the left side, Lie Xin's Flaming Elite Guard was already closing in. It was a beat slower than the Overlord. This was to prevent the Phantom King from making any other variations. Especially Heracles – the Saruman Snake battle team still gave their opponent due respect. Lie Xin did not believe that Atlantis would not have something up their sleeve.

But these layered attack approaches overwhelmed Heracles.

Everyone watched on, shocked. When… had Saruman Snake's other members become so strong?

This synergy, this layering, this staggering, this judgment?

Zeng…

This was something only the top tier battle teams had!

This Saruman Snake had not just grown because of Wang Zheng. Each person was accumulating confidence and strength. They were grinding and training. They were growing and becoming even stronger.

They also had the belief in their victory!

Killing from all four sides!

Even if you were as godly as the Phantom King, you would still be completely cornered.

SHING…

The Overlord mech's long spear thrusted out first. To be able to unleash such an attack while using the Sky Rocket Cannon was ample proof that Oli was the descendant of the Heavenly Overlord.

Just this move alone was enough to earn respect from many Arbiters.

The Phantom King had nowhere left to run.

All of the attacks arrived at the same time. Suddenly, the runes on the Phantom King's hull flashed purple, and a black ball of light appeared.

All of the attacks were caught in the ball of light…

What… the hell was this???

Lie Xin's all-out attack had clearly hit, but it seemed like it had hit an energy shield. But it was not an energy shield. Energy shields would rebound, but her attack on this black light shield seemed to sink like a buffalo in water.

Something was off.

Lie Xin felt as though her head had been hit by a truck. The world spun. She bit her own tongue savagely to clear her head, but it was too late.

Two Phantom Kings had already arrived. Their two runic swords cleaved at the same time. And that moment where her mental faculties were disoriented had lost Lie Xin her only chance to activate her energy shields.

BOOM…

Hong…

The Flaming Elite Guard exploded. Heracles' choice had been very clear. Finish off the strongest, most agile one first.

The Overlord's attack missed. The Phantom King's shadow exploded. The mech immediately retrieved its black shadows and disappeared.

To appear in front of Takumi in the next instant. Takumi immediately opened his energy shields and shouldered forward. He wanted to lock down the Phantom King. But that beam saber with burning black flame immediately pierced his energy shields, cutting through the cockpit of the Earthly Grizzly.

The Phantom King seemed to have risen from hell itself. It disappeared again, and Mu Zhen barely had time to even turn.

But Mu Zhen was a genius from Tita. The wind was his protector, and he could feel any ripple. The Giant mech's right arm swept out.

A bolt of black light flashed past. The right arm of the mech was sent flying. The Phantom King slipped past beside the Giant mech and split into two. One thrust a runic sword into the Giant mech's cockpit, while the other charged at Oli.

Oli adopted the defensive stance of the Heavenly Overlord Arts. That runic sword, still burning with black flame, came slicing downwards.

Zeng…

Zeng…

The Overlord leapt up to meet it, blade to blade. The Heavenly Overlord was not afraid of the Phantom King. Besides, the Phantom King had already used consecutive attacks. It could not possibly still use energy to divide itself.

Overlord Shield!

SHING…

That black flame runic sword directly cut through the Overlord's famous alloy shield…

And also cut through the Overlord mech

SHING…

The Phantom King disappeared, again appearing 10 meters away. The Phantom King, shrouded in the black flame, was terrifying.

What… was this…

Chapter 1017: Victory Within Grasp

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Whether it was an analyst, military school expert, or student, they were all mind-boggled. Although the Phantom King was difficult to obtain, the major military schools had it regardless. They had even done research on it. Humans with strong mental energies could use it, although the drain was larger. But they had never heard that the Phantom King could be used like this!

How was that possible?

Jiang Feng's face was solemn. He had heard of the Atlanteans' abilities. Back in the day, humans had not feared the runic mecha, but rather the real terror was the Atlanteans!

The Atlanteans' research towards mental aspects far surpassed that of the humans. This had been the real reason the allied human forces had stopped attacking. But for some reason, Atlantis had not publicly used it ever since they entered the Milky Way Alliance.

But against Wang Zheng, Heracles had actually used the taboo power of the Atlanteans…

This was a runic mech's true strength!

Runic mecha were not without defensive energy shields, it was simply that humans did not know how to use it.

Butcher had analyzed runic energy for quite some time now. He understood with just one look. His hypothesis was completely correct!

It was not that Atlanteans did not know how to use Ability X. Their mental energy was far more sophisticated than humans', and they could easily pilot runic mecha. So why could they not use the external world's energy?

This was not logical at all. And now it was clear that they were not incapable, but had merely not used it for their own reasons!

Afraid of human envy? Or something else?

Clearly, the legends were true.

They must never think they had completely seen through the Atlanteans.

Once used, all four members of the Saruman Snake battle team had been finished off in just five seconds…

This was representative of the best battle team at Elite Academy X. A casual slaying in less than five seconds!

Physical defenses and energy defenses were as weak as tofu when faced with that black runic sword.

The Phantom King flew high up, borne by the black flames.

This meant that the Phantom King was not only able to hover with low levitation powers… it could fly.

The audience finally realized the problem.

The Atlanteans… were angry!

The low-profile Atlanteans had been the strongest from the start. They were not inclined to war with humans, but that did not mean that humans could invade their territory.

Wang Zheng's biggest mistake was using the Phantom King to defeat the Atlanteans, which had angered them past their breaking point.

And now the Atlanteans were angry.

There had always been rumors that Heracles had come to Elite Academy X to win back lost glory from IG. They wanted to tell humankind that Atlantis had always been there, just like centuries ago. They should not be crossed.

The Asura battle team members were smiling bitterly as well. No wonder Marzu had been finished off so easily. From the power level that Heracles had just displayed, that black runic shield could completely absorb physical and energy attacks. This was similar to Marzu's invincible Ability X, except that they could use it with more impunity.

Those who had underestimated the Atlanteans and thought that humanity was on the rise were extremely thrown off now. Humanity had researched for so many years, and only scratched the surface.

The mech was just there. It had always been there.

And the question was, what would Saruman Snake do?

Wang Zheng was also a magnet for trouble. In this world, he was probably the first human to be targeted so by the Atlanteans.

But he was also the first to be able to push the Atlanteans this far.

Aina was not at all surprised at this turn of events. She was a human who was very familiar with the Atlanteans. This power was not unexpected. The Atlantean civilization sought a oneness between their spiritual energy and the universe, a completely opposite path from the Mayans. As the first civilization on Earth, they were much stronger than the humans who had come after. Simply because of some taboos, the Atlanteans had "sealed" this power. But this unsealing had surprised Aina as well. Was it simply to take back the name of the Phantom King?

Or… because of Wang Zheng?

The great Atlantis would break their seal, just for a human?

Suddenly, Aina realized another strange issue.

While the Phantom King was unleashing its powers, Wang Zheng was not sitting idly. The Slayer could not possibly dodge everything. If the opponents could not even chase a Slayer, then Jin Yaoer could not call herself a scout.

The Wasp Stinger darted up like a shadow, facing Wang Zheng. Jin Yaoer did not dare to hold back. Even if the mech was at an enormous advantage, he would fight till the last.

This concerned Aslan's glory, and a scout's honor!

Kill him!

All in!

Every scout must know this move. It was also a way of attacking.

The Wasp Stinger M's engine growled. The mech leaped forward, Jin Yaoer's Ability X bursting forth in full. Metal Ability X's sure-kill ability!

This was why she was qualified to enter the Imperial Glory battle team, and been the main scout. As long as her Ability X hit, it was a sure kill. Even an Earth rank would have his skin peeled off if he survived.

The scout advanced in a straight line, opening the way. But Jin Yaoer was confident that even if she was hit by the Slayer, he could activate her energy shields. A mech like the Slayer was static once it started attacking. And he still had friends behind him!

Strong, dependable teammates!

The retreating Slayer suddenly met the attack, raising an explosive burst laser… This…

Jin Yaoer's face twisted with maniacal battle will. Wang Zheng, no matter how awesome you are, don't try and show off in front of a scout!

There was only three meters between the two mecha. Only now did the Slayer raise the laser gun. Was he trying to club the scout to death with the gun?

Rumble, rumble, rumble…

Bubble, bubble…

Just as the two mecha were about to collide, the Slayer hummed and moved like lightning… A 90 degree turn, immediately coming to the Wasp Stinger's flank.

BOOM, BOOM, BOOM…

For the laser gun, firing three shots was an instant thing. But it has to be said that Jin Yaoer's reactions were quick enough. Perhaps it was instinct. The energy shield activated.

Blocked!

But the two mecha were too close to each other. The prodigious momentum carried Jin Yaoer crashing into the wall. This level of momentum did not faze Jin Yaoer, but suddenly, something like a bomb exploded beside his skull…

Mental breakdown… over.

BOOM, BOOM, BOOM…

This was a burst laser, which instantly exploded on Jin Yaoer's Wasp Stinger mech. At the same time, the mech side stepped. SHING, SHING, SHING…

There were three holes in the ground. Lu Die's sniper had arrived, but had not hit Wang Zheng. The Slayer did not continue fighting. The wind ability kicked in, and the mech speedily retreated.

A city terrain had always been unfavorable to the Slayer, but Wang Zheng simply changed his rhythm in this place.

Lu Die's eyes were full of bloodthirst. Calm down, calm down. This Wang Zheng was no ordinary opponent. One could not judge based on an average person's stamina and recovery time. Be calm, be savage!

Annil's Imperial Guardian wanted to pursue, but Di Maria bellowed for a stop.

Because, they had won.

To win this competition, they need not kill Wang Zheng, but merely win.

Chapter 1018: Z-shaped Stutter Steps

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

On the other side, Heracles' Phantom King had already finished off all four members of Saruman Snake. Although he could do it, at this time, nothing was more important than victory.

The Imperial Guardian and the BS001 converged. They need only wait for the Phantom King, and Wang Zheng would be finished.

It was clear that Di Maria's mind was fully in the game, to be able to calm down at this moment. Just this move alone won recognition from many of the teachers present.

The Greatest King Competition was not a slugfest. One could demonstrate one's ability through many ways. Bravery was one, but battle tactics and intellect were more important. And most of all was attitude.

Control one's impulses!

They clearly had the advantage, and should build it even further. With the Atlantean at full strength, plus him, combined with a tank and a sniper, enough…

Sh*t!

"Lu Die, watch out!"

They had come to a halt and forgotten about Wang Zheng.

How could Wang Zheng only dodge? The opponent's reactions were fast. Wang Zheng had wanted to use this method to scatter their formation, and take them down individually. But Di Maria clearly restrained himself. In that case, then he did not need to "restrain" them.

Wang Zheng's retreat was actually a feint. Once past a building, his target was Lu Die's Oracle mech.

As a sniper, Lu Die was too aggressive.

But Lu Die had discovered the Slayer early. Her judgment was very quick. At this moment, there was no time to retreat. The Slayer was the most agile offensive fighter. Conversely, if she could delay Wang Zheng, then she could create an opportunity for her teammates.

Her energy shield activated. As a sniper mech, she had no reason to be afraid of a Slayer that was a street and some tens of meters away.

He was already within her attack range. Her mental energy was completely trained on the Slayer, and the laser gun fired.

Snow Li, as a famous sniper in Elite Academy, used her almost perfect frost energy. In this, Lu Die was no match. But there were hundreds of ways to win in this world. Her ability used mental energy to mark a target, then compressed the mental energy, solidifying into a fatal, superbly penetrative needle.

This was her pride as a sniper. Wang Zheng's last two maneuvers had shocked even her. Could he still do it?

At this moment, Di Maria and Annil had already appeared in the corner. Both sides were about equidistant, while the mid-air Phantom King was only one zone away, and would arrive soon.

Everyone held their breath. Wang Zheng's Slayer did not slow in the slightest. BOOM, BOOM, BOOM…

Burst laser!

Hong…

The M200 heavy sniper immediately trained on Wang Zheng's Slayer, which had no intention of dodging. Annil and Di Maria were backing her up. Saruman Snake was eliminated on the other side, and the Phantom King was making its way over.

No one knew what the Atlanteans had done, but from afar they could feel an overwhelming energy which belied the gravity of the situation.

The Phantom King was very quick with its flying ability. More accurately, Wang Zheng's intention to finish off Lu Die was naïve. After Di Maria and Annil arrived, the Phantom King could arrive soon after. At most 10 plus seconds. At this distance, what could the Slayer do?

More importantly, what else could Lu Die do?

BOOM…

Arc gun!

It was that bold, that awesome. The highest level a sniper could reach was to finish off the opponent head to head. I aim better than you, I'm fiercer and more clever!

In an instant, three arc gun shots fired out in sequence. This move alone left many sniper students sweating. Arc guns were undoubtedly the hardest shooting technique to master, let alone consecutive shots.

But Wang Zheng changed his straight line to a stutter-step, dodging all three shots without slowing.

In that instant, neither could back down. Lu Die did not. The M200 fired out again, and three more well aimed shots flew out. This one was two normal sniper shots and 1 arc shot.

This was the hardest battle for any sniper. All shooting had a method to follow. It was a matter of habit and feel. For example, consecutive normal sniping, or consecutive arc shots. To be able to use two types of shooting techniques so smoothly, and with rhythm – that was a completely different level.

The Slayer had already halved the distance. Against such an attack, the only way to avoid dying might be to duck into one of the alleys on the side. But that was like a fish in a net. Once Di Maria and Heracles pincer attacked, they could become the perfect defense, nigh unbreakable by anybody. Lu Die could fire at will, and definitely be any opponent's nightmare.

Finish off Lu Die at all costs.

The Slayer neither slowed nor dodged. As an explosive offensive fighter, the Slayer's mech body also had the capabilities to do high frequency actions. This was something that the Golden Wheel Battle King could not compare with.

While Lu Die fired, everyone's jaws dropped. Wang Zheng moved in a Z-shape, leaving everyone bedazzled.

How much torque did one have to endure to do that???

But most crucially, while Wang Zheng was executing the Z steps, the laser fired out.

Unquestionably accurate. At this distance, Wang Zheng was very confident. This was an accurate attack that only a very well-trained shooter could make. All the snipers who had trained hard understood from the way that Wang Zheng raised his gun. He did not rely on his eyes, nor his brain, nor his feel. He relied on his hands!

That's right, based on hand feel. This was the highest level that a sniper could aim for!

Lu Die could not dodge. Energy shield activated!

At this distance, the burst of the lasers' force was not that big. They blasted against the energy shield.

At this moment, Lu Die's trump card was used.

Ability X – Fatal lock-on attack!

He was already within her attack range. Her mental energy was completely trained on the Slayer, and the laser gun fired.

Snow Li, as a famous sniper in Elite Academy, used her almost perfect frost energy. In this, Lu Die was no match. But there were hundreds of ways to win in this world. Her ability used mental energy to mark a target, then compressed the mental energy, solidifying into a fatal, superbly penetrative needle.

This was her pride as a sniper. Wang Zheng's last two maneuvers had shocked even her. Could he still do it?

At this moment, Di Maria and Annil had already appeared in the corner. Both sides were about equidistant, while the mid-air the Phantom King was only one zone away, and reaching soon.

Everyone held their breath. Wang Zheng's Slayer did not slow in the slightest, BOOM BOOM BOOM…

Burst laser!

Hong…

M200 fatal shot.

Both sides had fired at the same time, but based on the distance and power, it was clear that the Oracle mech was at an overwhelming advantage.

BOOM…

The Slayer's energy shield activated, blocking the M200's heavy sniper. On the other side, the Oracle mech's energy shield had also blocked the Slayer's burst laser.

But the Slayer continued to stride forward, passing by Oracle mech…

Pilot Lu Die was already OUT!

A small skill like energy lock-on was nothing to an Earth rank fighter. The Ability X compression method that Lu Die was so proud of was easy to deal with for Wang Zheng. This was the difference in their Ability X ranks. A complete shutdown.

From the start, Lu Die had been in her own naïve world.

"Go to hell!"

The Slayer did not retreat at all. His target was Di Maria and Annil.

Annil was angry. At that moment, there was no way back. The Imperial Guardian was rushing forward, energy shields activated at full. She did not believe the opponent was godlike. Just delay for time!

Di Maria had already lost control at this moment. He could not just wait for Heracles. He immediately attacked with the Imperial Guardian.

"Go to hell!"

After screaming it, Annil's Ability X burst forth. Waves of energy gushed forth, while Di Maria's Ability X was already in effect. Wang Zheng was trapped in his energy field.

He was asking for it!

Time swamp!

He, Di Maria, the ultimate genius. In his energy field, he was God. Wang Zheng was trapped in the time swamp, while Annil was sped-up.

Instantly, they reached Wang Zheng. A d*mned Slayer. They would reduce it to ash!

The beam saber swept down. A tank as agile as a scout, and a Slayer as slow as a tank.

Chapter 1019: I Don't Want to See A the Slayer Ever Again!

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Zeng…

Whoosh…

The beam saber missed. The Slayer immediately made a diagonal movement and attacked.

Annil's endurance was much stronger than Lu Die's. The energy shield blocked the attack, and Annil actually survived.

Di Maria was reeling in shock. His Ability X had not taken effect!

"Naïve," Marzu said emotionlessly. No matter how high the quality of Ability X, it was still restricted to its level. Wang Zheng's Earth-rank understanding was not weak. In terms of level, Di Maria was still far from him. He had naively believed that his Ability X could hold his opponent.

Wang Zheng could not ignore his opponent's Ability X, but he could actively move to avoid the ability's interference.

Di Maria came charging, but the Slayer retreated nimbly, letting the attack pass. A sidestep, then another attack. Another round of shots fired.

Three consecutive hits. The Imperial Guardian's shield exploded, but the Slayer did not pursue, because Annil had already fallen.

He spun and fired three shots again, beating back the BS001 that was preparing an ambush behind him.

It was not that Wang Zheng did not want to attack. It was that Heracles had arrived.

Burning with black flames, the Phantom King was like the demon king from Hell.

Di Maria heaved his first sigh of relief. The BS001 and the Phantom King stood together. From that last clash, they had felt that Wang Zheng was not impervious to their abilities, but could negate them for a short period of time. Although they did not know how he had managed it, it probably took a large portion of his concentration. And against Heracles now, what would happen to him if his attention was divided?

"Heracles, I'll suppress him. You find a chance to act!"

The two super mecha had been held back this long by a Slayer. To even need tactics… In any other competition, they would be laughed out of the battle. But no one was laughing now.

Wang Zheng's situation did not look good. It was not Di Maria, but Heracles. And when they worked as one, things would get even stickier. The two of them had been on the same team for a while now, and had some synergy.

Faced with these two, the Slayer did not dodge, nor seek to draw distance. Instead, it stood lightly, bursting lasers angled downwards to the ground.

The mood grew heavy. Clearly, the real battle was about to start.

Heracles' black flames roiled. The mech's runes glowed even brighter. Heavy pressure crushed down on the Slayer from above.

Marzu and the rest frowned. Heracles' Ability X undulations was of an Atlantean adult standard. It was already at B-rank.

A pillar of ice that rose to the skies…

Di Maria's attack was actually stopped, his Ability X dissipating in an instant. The mech shut down.

From start to end, Heracles had not followed, because he had not agreed.

From start till now, Di Maria still had not realized the gravity of the situation. Imperial Glory still had not realized exactly what kind of fighter they were facing.

This was the strongest Earth-rank fighter Elite Academy X had ever known. An Earth-rank fighter full of battle experience.

Wang Zheng, through all the battles and training, had reached where he was today. Even Zhang Shan and the rest had improved, let alone Wang Zheng!

This was a truly horrifying fighter. How could a small fry like Di Maria ever hope to compete? His excellent Ability X could not be put to use at all.

True, close distance could bring out his Ability X best. But was he ignorant of how fearsome an Earth-rank fighter was at this distance!

And he had dared to make the first move. Wasn't he just asking for it?

Frenzied frost energy immediately solidified. The reaction time of an Earth-rank was extremely quick. At least, non-Earth-rank fighters could not hope to master it, or even respond in time. Di Maria had no time to use his time reversal before he fell.

In the cockpit, Di Maria was frozen in sleep.

A pity. Wang Zheng had wanted to lure the Phantom King to act, but the Atlantean had not fallen for it.

The Atlantean was not moving. Clever. It was clear that he understood the situation. Given Heracles' level, there was no way he could synergize with him. He would only be underfoot. But this was something Heracles could not say directly, so he had chosen an indirect explanation.

The Phantom King hovered. This could help the Phantom King's movements leave even less of a trace.

Their two Ability Xs met, and it was clear that the Phantom King's aura was stronger. He had the the Slayer well under control. This was a clear gap in their abilities, although he could not fully suppress him.

Zeng…

There was still a trace of an excited smile on Wang Zheng's face. To a fighter, although ability was important, experience and worldliness were equally important. Because thanks to his experience, the Phantom King's weakness was glaringly obvious to Wang Zheng.

SHING…

The Phantom King vanished. The final battle began!

Without question, the Phantom King's dual body technique would completely defeat a mech with weaker defense. The Phantom King defeating the Slayer was like a hawk after a rabbit.

But two meters away from the Slayer, the Phantom King suddenly materialized…

His attack had failed!

Heracles had forgotten one thing. Wang Zheng also understood how the Phantom King worked. He erased the spiritual mark on himself so that the simultaneous attack would not occur.

The runic sword flashed out.

The Slayer moved sideways at the same time. BOOM…

A streak of black light flashed past. The building behind Wang Zheng… was cut in two.

From the side, the Slayer attacked, the burst laser booming.

The Phantom King disappeared, The building behind the Phantom King took three hits.

BOOM! RUMBLE… It immediately collapsed.

Both mecha had drawn a distance away.

The Slayer seemed frail, but the Phantom King was no heavy mech either.

These two mecha were inclined towards heavy offense and weak defense. If Heracles could firmly suppress Wang Zheng, then he was clearly at the level of an Earth-rank fighter. Faced with anyone else as an opponent, this terrifying pressure alone would make their legs weak. The mental control was something that the Atlanteans were indeed excellent at.

Which meant that at this distance, Wang Zheng could do nothing but take hits.

Even Marzu had not experienced such a battle before. He could not predict the outcome. The key was, he did not understand the choice of the Slayer. If it was a warrior-type mecha, he would not need to be placed in such a dilemma, considering their balanced capabilities.

The same questions were in Jiang Feng's mind. Even for him, this was a difficult situation.

The Phantom King attacked again, knowing that those beautiful moves were useless. Heracles was not intending to finish him off in one attack. His advantage was obvious. He would cut his opponent to death gradually… one slash at a time!

BOOM…

That black light flashed out, and everyone broke out in a cold sweat. It was too terrifying. The Atlantean's attack was not flashy or explosive. Instead, it possessed terrifying offensive power.

And this was the most fatal attack yet!

When the Phantom King lunged, the Slayer would dodge and draw back. While dodging, the burst laser gun would return fire.

Lightning speed Z movements with burst laser point shooting…

This was the undisputed technique of an invincible Slayer! Unless one could warp or suddenly vanish, this was an almost invincible strategy. The problem with such an attack was that it was difficult to use. While dodging and gauging the distance, one had to use the burst-specialized laser to fire precise volleys, which was extremely difficult.

This was a brain-fuddling issue that no attacker wanted to deal with, because it was too perverted. Executing one complete set would exhaust the pilot.

But Wang Zheng had done it. And it was an unbeatable strategy.

Heracles understood how this human attacked. The Phantom King could not warp. The warp needed time, and this delay would see him beaten a few times over.

The black runic shield activated. The Slayer's attacks sank without creating the slightest ripple.

Heracles completely defended, then used his mental energy to suppress him again. Once he had control over the situation, the runic mech immediately split into two. He was smart about it. He immediately split and lunged at the Slayer. Whether Wang Zheng could tell if it was real or fake, he would have to take both heavy attacks due to the short delay!

At this level, there was no need to test one's eyesight in determining the fake. It was about who was stronger and using their actions to determine victory!

Two Phantom Kings came at Wang Zheng. Two black blades swept out…

F*ck… Phantom Cross Seal!

Two swords sliced the air, using his mental ability to coordinate both the illusion and the real body. Heracles could do such an attack!

How could he avoid it?

Even if Wang Zheng avoided the attack, he could not counter. From the way the situation looked, based on Heracle's mech advantage, he would eventually whittle Wang Zheng down. With a good rhythm, Wang Zheng could not retaliate.

Everyone's eyes widened. See if Wang Zheng would gamble it all. The Slayer had already made its move, still cool without the slightest trace of fear.

Wang Zheng's Slayer again moved in a Z… At the first step, the burst laser fired out to counter. By the second movement, the mech was already in an extreme state. He was in midair right now, and to fire again was of the highest difficulty. But after completing the third movement of the Z, he forcefully controlled his mech and fired a third burst.

This waist strength…

BOOM! RUMBLE…

The fearsome attack completely landed on the runic mech. The Phantom King's runic shield was completely activated, which absorbed all of the energy.

Unbeatable!

The Phantom King still controlled the situation. How many times could Wang Zheng execute this high level move? How long could his stamina hold out?

In this battle, the slightest mistake would be fatal for Wang Zheng.

"Isn't there a way to win against this runic shield?��

"The key is that attacks can't even connect. A graze is a wound, and contact is death!"

"When did these Atlantean devils get so good?"

Wang Zheng's ridiculous physical techniques left them shocked, but against such overwhelming suppression, the crowd was frustrated.

The audience was discussing. This seemed hopeless. The same attack played out once again but it was clear it was draining Wang Zheng out significantly. At this rate, Wang Zheng would be exhausted to death. The key was that his attacks were useless against his opponent.

But at this point, Marzu and Olivios exchanged a look. Evidently, they understood something.

This was why Wang Zheng had chosen the Slayer!

Earth-rankers had a method of fighting called: distance control from an invincible position!

Regardless of how powerful the opponent's attack was, close or far, he could not be touched.

Just as everyone's attention was hooked on how Wang Zheng's Slayer was being chased and cornered by the Phantom King, those like Jiang Feng and Marzu saw this completely differently from the pros' point of view.

The Slayer's movements started to link up. He was actually moving in a zigzag circular pattern around the the Phantom King, keeping him in the centre. This was the ultimate display of distance control. The wind and lightning Ability Xs' speed boosts helped him maintain distance. The Slayer's movement was faster than the Phantom King's. Ice and Fire Ability X complemented the burst lasers to continually batter the runic shield.

Calm, without the trace of smoke.

At this time, Jiang Feng was already completely at ease. Wang Zheng, at his level, could take the 12 Paths Challenge.

This was already the 20th time the attack repeated. Their surroundings had been blasted to smithereens by the Phantom King. The Phantom King's every attack worried them. The runic mech's every defense quelled their spirits.

It was unbelievable that Wang Zheng could hold out for so long. But he could fall at any time now. This seemed to be delaying the inevitable.

Wang Zheng's 20th time making the same unnerving maneuver. Another volley of burst lasers!

Bo…

Heracles still could not completely avoid it. But no trouble. The runic energy shield ate another volley. The runic energy technology was not something that humans could break. This was not a simple drain. Wang Zheng's idea was not bad, but too naïve…

WARB…

A change had finally appeared.

The runic shield was hit with the red and white energy, immediately returning black energy. BOOM…

That runic shield which had caused despair cracked…

This energy shield could crack!!!

Suddenly, Heracles was stunned. How could this be!?

Runic technology… how…

Wang Zheng's mouth twitched. That was how the world was. When the road ended, one had to fly!

One must fly!

Any absorption must have a limit. But runic technology had a conversion mechanism. Otherwise, Heracles could not have held on for so long. Then he would give it something it could not take. Ice and fire combination. This was not something anybody could do. Especially against a runic system!

In that instant, the Slayer disappeared!

Instant disappearance, the ultimate dodge!

Not just evasion, but appearing in front of the runic mecha. S close!

Lightning speed boost + wind speed boost + powerful control!

In this instant, the Phantom King could not even swing his runic sword if he wanted to. They were too close. But the burst laser was virtually plastered to the hull of the Phantom King mech.

Body double? Illusion?

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM…

As the burst lasers boomed out, there was nothing left in Wang Zheng's view.

In this nightmare battle, the battlefield had been levelled. The Slayer's view was a world with no horizons.

The Phantom King, which had dominated the battlefield, crumbled.

In this moment, it seemed like a miracle.

The elation was completely different from the last battle. Now Wang Zheng felt strength in his peace!

At this moment, everyone was thinking that this had been a city terrain. With a more complicated terrain, wouldn't Wang Zheng's Slayer rule the world?

Chapter 1020: Perfect Work of Art

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

When only the Slayer was left standing on the battlefield, everyone present – former opponents, friends, spectators – all felt something curious.

This battle was very different from the previous two. It had neither Marzu's violence, nor Wang Zheng's desperation of beating back the Arbiter brothers.

The Slayer was complete. It was at peace. It was noble.

At this moment, everyone realized something. The person before their very eyes, known as Wang Zheng, was dominating everything.

Xiao Fei smiled lightly. Lady Xiao's intellect was top-class. Even if she did not understand mecha, but she was no complete stranger either. She merely believed and supported in her own way. Her indifference to the result had been born of her worry. Wang Zheng did not need more pressure.

But seeing the Slayer's performance, Xiao Fei did not care how much skill had been shown. All she knew was that throughout the battle, Wang Zheng had controlled the pace. Perhaps there had been some unforeseen variations, but the situation had never been out of control.

This was life. One could not expect everything to go according to plan, but the best could always integrate the variables into their plan.

The Slayer meant a killer. A demon. This was the strongest existence on the battlefield, the pinnacle of savagery had finally fallen, but the Slayer had not.

In this battle, the might that Wang Zheng had demonstrated was overwhelmingly holistic. This was something that a single challenge could not bring out. This was true composite strength, enough to satisfy all the professors of the school.

Yet, none of this was necessary nor important now. At this moment, what was needed were cheers.

The entire Elite Academy X was impassioned. Everyone, including both grudging and convinced opponents, had to stand up at this moment to pay homage to this person.

He was the Greatest King!

He had finally won.

Zhang Shan and the rest were whooping madly. They rushed onto the training field. They could not believe that all of this was real. It seemed like just yesterday that he and Wang Zheng were worrying if they could stay at Elite Academy X. And now, they stood at the pinnacle of Elite Academy X.

The undisputed peak.

The winner of the Greatest King battle's first iteration. This was no luck. They had beaten the strongest Arbiter and Aslan teams to emerge at the top.

Marzu was applauding, and Olivios as well. This was a sign of respect to their opponent. This Greatest King competition had meant a lot to them as well. When the outcome was finally decided, none of that honor mattered anymore. It was necessary to let go of what they should.

The entire Elite Academy X reverberated with cheers for the Greatest King.

And on Earth, Moon, Mars, more than 10 military schools cheered for the same thing for the first time. After so many years, internal strife, grudges, losses, and more losses had plagued the Solar System. In this moment, the Solar System team had finally won glory.

And as the core, Ares College had completely lost their minds. More accurately, this wave of enthusiasm had spread through the entire upper district. In a major international competition, Ares College students had defeated Arbiter, defeated Aslan, and taken the title of greatest.

Even the average citizen received it like heavenly news. It was such a far-fetched thing. A few middle-aged people were roused to remember their own youth.

Ares College's recruitment hotline was bursting. The postbox was brimming with countless consultation and report documents. Nobody believed that talent alone was enough. Because if that was the case, no one could hope to compete with Aslan and Arbiter. Wang Zheng had displayed fortitude, will, and passion with composure. This was what was most moving. What kind of military school could raise such a fine fighter?

Wang Zheng had done it. Leading Saruman Snake, this rag-tag team had created a miracle, and defeated the opponents who had once looked down on him.

Wang Zheng had been hoisted up, and thrown around. For a while, he would not feel solid ground again.

Most importantly, Wang Zheng and the Saruman Snake team had done something else, which was break the domination of Aslan and Arbiter.

This was also something that the professors wished to see.

Humanity needed to progress. If the Milky Way was to find balance, it needed even more new powers for balance, which could bring forth other powers.

Without question, besides Arbiter and Aslan, the other countries had all been longing for a miracle. Even other superpowers like Manalasuo were happy to accept this outcome. It was better than always seeing the sour face of Arbiter or the pasty white face of Aslan.

Many soon found out that even those opponents like Dendi or Pampas could find it in their hearts to be happy with this victory.

This was what Wang Zheng had achieved, and some could never do.

A certain person had received the news on Tita Star as well. Lear indeed could hold it in. Lear now was like a wild man. After such a long time spent outdoors, his hair and beard had grown long. Fatty was not doing well either. But after hearing the news of Wang Zheng's championship, Fatty did not cheer, but stood silently at Lear's side.

Anyone but him could cheer.

What was more painful was the "bootlicking" from the former opponents!

This was something that Lear could never do.

Two shadows disappeared into Tita Star's forest. Time would go on.

The school was not tight-fisted either. They had thrown a magnificent celebration for Saruman Snake. Elite Academy X was not a prison. Some things were taught by the military, and not here.

Within the cheers, Wang Zheng saw Aina, who coincidentally met his eye. She could feel his eyes burning with a conquering flame, naked yet with a wild sense of protection.

It was a look that Aina could not dismiss, and was scared to meet. Her team had lost, and she had not even felt denial or unhappiness.

Aslan's team could not possibly stay at this celebration long. In this battle, two of their members had been wounded. Wang Zheng's killing power was too terrifying.

The Atlanteans had used their taboo powers to bring forth overwhelming strength, but still fell under the calm hand of Wang Zheng. It was not much to triumph over the weaker, but defeating such a worthy opponent was the most fearsome thing. It left one's opponents in despair.

Heracles was frustrated, but he was not the first to lose.

The projector screen displayed an analysis of Wang Zheng's battle. Each scene brought forth more cheers.

This was even more awesome than the result. From start to finish, the Slayer had completely controlled the distance, minimizing damage. This was the Slayer's original intention, to play the distance and make the strongest attacks.

Z movement again and again, without the slightest mistake. How long did one have to train to be able to do it?

In a normal battle, Wang Zheng's Ability X was not that remarkable. But he had used foundational moves and the basic nature of Ability X to its finest.

A complete domination.

And amidst the crowd of Elite Academy X, the rush from the replays was too overwhelming. Some had started to faint, and were escorted out by those around them. Luckily, at such gatherings, the school had arranged for medical personnel, otherwise there would have been complications.

Such excitement was indeed not for those with weak hearts.

The textbook dodge and attack over and over again, it was a perfect work of art!

Chapter 1021: Idol Effect

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

The frame froze on the Slayer's last attack, confident and stable.

In truth, faced with Atlantis' runic shield technology that was revealed for the first time, no one knew how to beat it, including Wang Zheng. Only one who was truly strong could remain confident when faced with a problem, and maintain an indomitable attitude.

The extremely draining movements compounded with the burst shots, rendered ineffective again and again. Anyone else would have started to doubt themselves after three failures, and given up after five failed attempts. Those who persevered 10 times were monsters, and Wang Zheng had actually done 20. Until the opponent crumbled.

Such perseverance was the most unnerving.

This was a warrior's soul.

Inner strength was the real might.

The Greatest King made Wang Zheng famous. Everyone around the world knew this young man called Wang Zheng. But his background was ordinary and unremarkable. He was just a young man from Ares College. He had moved step by step from IG to Elite Academy X, and finally gained glory.

Saruman Snake battle team would undoubtedly celebrate. The good times in life must be enjoyed, and one should relax when the time called for it. This was, of course, orchestrated by Ai Xiaolu. Miss Ai was over the moon. To Ai Xiaolu, who was disinclined to believe in miracles, this had been unreal.

Saruman Snake's members, as well as members' friends and family. This time, there was no fear that not enough people would come. There were too many who wanted to come. Not just these, but there was a whole horde of classmates who would want to come.

They might have been gilding the lily, but at this joyous time, they should celebrate happily.

Staying up through the night was compulsory, and the school would not care either. These youngsters should be allowed to relax. This Greatest King had ended wonderfully because of Wang Zheng's appearance. It was a realization of this competition's purpose. Now the galaxy needed to awaken the potential of the mighty, and at the same time demonstrate battle team battles. Of course, battle team battles did not mean that the individual was ignored. The battle team was made up of individuals. One had to choose well between individual potential and individual sacrifice – that was the message that Elite Academy X wanted to impart to every student.

Pampas and Dendi had received invitations as well, and both came. Although neither battle team was counted as a success score-wise, the entire process had been a valuable experience, and they had made many fast friends.

The entire night Wang Zheng was drinking. He could not refuse. In the end, student Wang would definitely go home lying down. Even God could not quell the volume that these brothers quaffed.

The next day, Saruman Snake's members would sleep until the sun roasted their backsides. The accumulated stress and fatigue were all released in one go.

Wang Zheng woke up and looked at the warm sunlight streaming through the window, quietly savoring the peace. He knew that others might savor the experience for a long time more, but to him, the Greatest King competition was over. In this battle, his improvement and baptism had been of utmost importance. Especially through this process, he had been at a loss and filled with doubt. But in the end, he had made the correct call, and his teammates had backed him up.

Now, everyone thought that Wang Zheng was too awesome. He was not just individually awesome, but he could motivate a battle team, and believe in them. To have such a leader was a blessing for any member.

But what others did not know were Wang Zheng's own doubts and struggles. At times, he had felt their lineup was helpless. More than once he had been tempted to go at it alone. But after agonizing over it, he understood something. He must learn to believe: otherwise, the Saruman Snake battle team would not be where it was today.

Being racked with doubt was an experience that everyone had to go through. But as long as one persisted, regardless of the result, in the end one could turn back and face everything with a smile.

A new day was beginning.

Student Wang went to class like normal. Battles were battles. Actually, many classes at Elite Academy X covered a wide range of topics. And the professors' standards were recognized. Even if they were not world class, they were still excellent. For example, psychological control, facial control, and other such small tricks. These things had no direct relation to battle, but were widely relevant.

Only now Wang Zheng was completely different from before. Almost everyone he passed smiled at him. Of course, even at Elite Academy X's level, there was no one who was on Wang Zheng's level.

The Greatest King's power was too awesome. Babes he passed made eyes at him and blew kisses. It was normal now.

It was not just Wang Zheng. The Saruman Snake battle team members were the same. Before defeating Aslan and Arbiter, they would be getting all kinds of rude comments, but that was normal. Imperial Glory and Asura had accumulated their wins until now, and it was natural to be popular. There was no reason that a new battle team should be more popular than them. Being questioned was part of the path to success. But as long as one could stand the pressure and eventually triumph, then the reward would be multifold.

Fame followed merit in this Greatest King Competition, and no one would doubt their value. If it were not for Arbiter and Aslan's all out, this Greatest King moniker would not have the meaning that it had now.

In the next few days of class, Wang Zheng was exasperated. His normal life was indeed interrupted, but he could handle it fine. Once he entered study mode, those stray thoughts disappeared.

Zhang Shan was handling it fairly well also, perhaps even better than Wang Zheng. Zhang Shan accepted all followers, but resumed his usual state during class and training. This was a personality thing, although it was rumored that Student Zhang Shan recently had a new target. He seemed to be chasing… Sweeney.

As for Zhang Shan's companions, they had nothing to say besides that the kid liked a real challenge!

Everyone's lives had changed. Saruman Snake had changed as well. Vincent and the rest had gradually become the new face of Elite Academy X. During the practical training, he became a role model.

But the one who changed the most was Mu Zhen. Tita Star did not have the resources of Atlantis or Maya, and the giants did not have that kind of intellect. To Mu Zhen, fighting was not the problem. The difficult thing was getting along with humans.

"Hungry?" Wang Zheng smiled. It was already noon.

Mu Zhen nodded honestly, receiving the food and laying into it heartily. It was evident that Mu Zhen's mind was on the battle.

"Ada, so many people want to be friends now. I'm tired." Mu Zhen rubbed his head. Recently, Mu Zhen had been hiding. He did not know how to deal with all this.

Wang Zheng smiled. "Mu Zhen, human speech is just for formality and courtesy. The most important thing is that you don't need to change humankind. While you learn and understand, just focus on yourself, and be true to yourself."

"Ada, do you mean I can stay in the dorm and not go out?" Mu Zhen happily asked.

Wang Zheng was taken aback. Er…

"Keke, Mu Zhen, that's a choice, but it's running away. You forget that you represent the Tita people here. You have to bravely accept new things. That's the mark of a warrior. You're not just in Elite Academy X, but also in the heart of the Milky Way Alliance: Roland Garros. You should get out more, just like on Titatitan. Roam the streets, eat out, make new friends. Let more people know about Titatitan and the Tita people."

This was the real reason why Mu Sen had let Mu Zhen follow Wang Zheng and leave Titatitan, and the real purpose of entering Elite Academy X. It was something that Wang Zheng could not help with. This step had to be taken by a Tita person, Mu Zhen, for it to be meaningful.

And Mu Zhen could not follow him around like a child.

A light breeze wafted over. The leaves rustled. Wang Zheng looked at Mu Zhen's forlorn form and smiled. "There's a battle mech course tomorrow. You can follow me for that. Besides that, there's a warship navigation segment. You go by yourself for that. Try making some human friends."

Mu Zhen smiled happily. He had been worried that he was a nuisance.

Ai Ruifen was a long distance away, looking at the pair under the tree.

One was her idol – Wang Zheng! Saruman Snake's captain. He was so handsome, swoon-level handsome. His casual gaze had such a sharp look to it. As expected of the almighty demon Wang Zheng!

The other was the target she was interested in. The Tita tank simpleton, Mu Zhen!

Chapter 1022: To Battle

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

At Elite Academy X, battle was just one aspect. There were also many other aspects and study directions, like science and governance, although they were not as flashy as battling.

Ai Ruifen was a science specialist. Her Ability X was photographic memory. She was able to memorize huge loads of information in an instant, as well as complete the categorization and basic analysis. In terms of scientific use, this was an extremely powerful Ability X.

Ai Ruifen's hobby was quite unique, which was studying civilizations.

The mysterious and elegant Atlantean civilization, the low profile and luxurious Mayan civilization, Ghana Star's multi-tribal fusion…

Ai Ruifen had started a civilization research association at Elite Academy X, and had found quite a few comrades with like minds.

But problems emerged as the association grew. It was quite pleasurable when a few people sat together to chat and research one civilization. But once the numbers grew, it was hard to get a word in, and things got messy. There had to be structure, some procedural research.

But at Elite Academy X, there was no good research partner. This was the humans' Elite Academy X!

The association only liked to talk war theory on paper.

Until the Atlanteans and Mayans had joined Elite Academy X.

Ai Ruifen had been filled with joy!

But her pleasure turned to disappointment very quickly. They would not even entertain her.

She had tried to stop them on their way twice, but met with their wrath and was immediately knocked out. When she came to, they had already left. She could not even start a conversation. Atlanteans apparently hated this kind of research, and would show her no courtesy.

The Mayans went without saying. The moment a member raised the idea in a meeting, the Mayans would raise an uproar. In truth, who was willing to be studied? Even if the intentions were good.

Ai Ruifen did not like giving up. Perseverance was her strong point. The vice chairman, Wei Ying, was always trying to talk her out of it, and she was always pressing the issue. In the end, the Atlanteans would put up with her no more. The moment they sensed her presence, they would immediately vanish. If they could not fight, they would hide.

However, Ai Ruifen still gleaned some things. The process of hitting a wall was also research. She could discover some new details. In truth, the Milky Way Alliance had long done related research, with formal experts and on a much wider scale. If she wanted to make new inroads, she had best find a different path. She had gritted her teeth to finally write a thesis on "The Shyness of the Atlantean Civilization", which left Di Maria speechless. In the end, Aslan had intervened to settle the matter.

Just as Ai Ruifen was considering her next step, Wang Zheng had brought Mu Zhen back!

Tita person! So huge!

Ai Ruifen's attention shifted. At least Di Maria and the Mayans had breathed a sigh of relief. After all, this was a human world. They had received some orders from their own countries before they came as well, and they had no wish to get into trouble with these sorts.

Ai Ruifen had also learnt her lessons from the Altanteans. She could not be too direct. Nobody liked to be stared at as research.

She had not really liked the Greatest King Competition from the start…

At the start, she had no real interest. But because of Mu Zhen, she had grudgingly supported the Saruman Snake battle team. Once the factions had emerged, watching the competition was no longer as simple as mecha bashing each other. She had been hooked as the situation developed, at times moved, at times worried, and at times happy.

The impulsivity of youth was infectious.

Wang Zheng had brought victory time and again, and Ai Ruifen regarded him as an idol. That sort of feeling was difficult to put into words.

Like Lin Huiyin!

Before she had attended her live concert, she just felt that her songs were not bad. They were nice to listen to, and meaningful.

But after attending one live concert, under the dim lights, her view was colored by the beauty, and she again heard the angelic soul of Lin Huiyin.

As though life had changed.

This made Ai Ruifen want to study Mu Zhen all the more. Her interest and worship merged as one. The feeling was great.

"I have classes in the afternoon. Go around by yourself. Be brave." Wang Zheng still encouraged Mu Zhen.

Mu Zhen hung his head and sighed. Perhaps he really should get to know other friends.

Mu Sen, and the council of elders, were always worried about this whenever they spoke to him.

Mu Sen had worn out his ear every time. "Oh, Mu Zhen, in the human world, you must follow the human way. The caveat being not causing Ada any trouble, you have to get along with humans…"

Getting along. It was not something you could teach, and what Mu Zhen wanted to learn was independence.

Mu Zhen scratched his head, looking at the disappearing figure of Wang Zheng in the distance. He was a little at a loss. He had no class today, so he could not try making new friends in class. Sigh, that big-sized guy who sat beside him in class looked like someone he would have a lot in common with – in some dormitory of the school a two meter plus macho guy suddenly got the chills…

Just as he was considering who would be better to approach, Mu Zhen was startled by Ai Ruifen, who had appeared in front of him.

A beautiful, little girl.

"Hello." Ai Ruifen took the initiative to say hi. The picture of a big guy brooding under a tree had moved her. The original plan had been to observe from a safe distance for a time.

"Hello. You are?" Mu Zhen blinked.

"I'm called Ai Ruifen. Er, a supporter of the Saruman Snake battle team. Can you give me an autograph?"

"Me? Autograph?" Mu Zhen sheepishly pointed at his own nose. He again looked at the little girl. She wore a pair of thick square spectacles that framed her sharp features. Her pink lips smiled convincingly.

"Mm. I want to be friends with you. Is that alright?"

Mu Zhen was stunned, but happy. "Sure."

Just like when you were sleepy, and someone delivered a pillow. And this "little girl" had an aura a little like a Tita person.

Seeing Mu Zhen's smile, Ai Ruifen suddenly felt a little sheepish, because she could sense his sincerity and how much the word "friend" meant to him. And her own motives were not simple.

"Actually, I really want to research the Titatitan people and understand you. Could you help me?"

Research? Mu Zhen was a little confused.

"I just want to be friends."

"I'm serious too, I'm not here with bad intentions. I like the Saruman Snake battle team, and I'm curious about the Tita people." Ai Ruifen was already prepared for rejection. "As you're the pioneer of the Tita people, you should be brave enough and let other humans understand you, and understand Tita Star. We're one big family. Only when more people understand you can we build a peaceful alliance."

Ai Ruifen said sincerely. She had heard of Tita Star's situation as well, and was apprehensive that Tita people might not bear too much goodwill to humans.

Mu Zhen frowned. Sounded logical. "Slice up?"

"What slice up?" Ai Ruifen was shocked. "Do you like sliced bread…"

Seeing Mu Zhen's troubled face, Ai Ruifen could not resist laughing. This was a classic case of watched-too-many-movies.

When Ai Ruifen explained that all she wanted to do was talk and better understand Tita people's habits and customs, as well as Tita Star's wonderful aboriginal culture, Mu Zhen laughed sheepishly.

From far, Wang Zheng looked at the two and shook his head, smiling. This was a good start.

Just as Wang Zheng had predicted, the school came looking for him. More accurately, looking for them.

Elite Academy X was a specialized school that represented humanity's direction. This college did not exactly need idols and models. On the contrary, the school calmly and fairly handled such matters, from individual to national level.

This Greatest King Competition had already achieved all its aims. But now the drawbacks had to be taken care off. The students could immerse themselves in the joy of battle for a while, but learning and training were serious things. After some time of celebration, the students had to calm themselves.

Besides, it was not suitable for those like Wang Zheng to remain at the school too long. This was nothing personal, but a custom that had begun before Marzu and Hocatolin.

Those in the meeting room were all familiar faces.

When Wang Zheng arrived, Marzu and Olivios were already there, as well as the long absent Lear. The moment he saw Wang Zheng, Lear actually smiled.

Pampas and Dendi had arrived as well. Not long before the six arrived, Professor Jiang Feng appeared.

Marzu, Pampas, and Dendi already knew what they were waiting for. For Wang Zheng, Lear, and Olivios, it was their first time.

"I think you might have guessed. Firstly, congratulations. Your performance at the Greatest King Competition has been recognized by the school. In order to elevate your abilities more holistically, you will begin to undertake special missions for Elite Academy X. Marzu, Dendi, and Pampas are already old hands. You can formally graduate after finishing this mission. Wang Zheng, Olivios and Lear, you three are doing this for the first time. There are some things I need to caution you about."