1144 - 1153

Chapter 1144: Enemy and Not Friends

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

In the battle of the top sixteen, the opponent Saruman Snake would face off were the Dark Knight battle team of the Darkness Empire.

Many people were investigating the follow-up of Luo Fei yesterday, but without avail. Luo Fei was usually mysterious. Generally, such prominence could only be credited to Wang Zheng. Yet, Luo Fei's sudden rise to such prominence was indeed the most celebrated. The ordinary members were very curious. Luo Fei was nowhere to be found in a time where he should lead the charge. Luo Fei did not even appear in the audience. The Dynasty battle team were also expressionless.

Many people suspected that Luo Fei was injured and was being treated in the hospital. However, Luo Fei's name was not on the treatment list provided by the SIG. Some people also investigated other surrounding hospitals. In order to protect Luo Fei's ability, Lear may have transferred him elsewhere. But this was not the case. Which meant that Luo Fei was still in his room.

Zhou Yun and the others had already lost their usual composure. Lear was still his usual self. Zhou Yun and the others had gone to look for Luo Fei. They felt it was time to change their attitudes and showed their loyalty. However, what they saw was how Luo Fei was being treated by Lear.

This very person who had made a great contribution to the Dynasty battle team was treated like a dog, kicked aside by Lear. The only reason that he was unable to go to the hospital was to ensure his secrets would not be exposed.

Yet Lear intentionally showed this to the trio, including Zhou Yun.

He wanted to teach this trio a lesson – if they were not his "friends", they would be his enemies, to say the least.

The three of them finally understood that their so-called supplant was just child's play. Lear was a bona fide ruthless person. He would prefer it if everyone was betrayed by him, instead of him being betrayed by everyone. That was the reason why he was the candidate for the Son of Saint instead if the others.

Wanted to withdraw? That would make you an enemy because you already knew too much.

Likewise, to serve Lear, you needed to be useful. Otherwise, you would be disposed of. Luo Fei had served under Lear for the longest time. Zhou Yun and the rest used to think that Lear was sentimental. The three felt that everything was subverted at that moment. Especially when Lear had kicked him out with determination and without hesitation.

Under such circumstances, if Luo Fei was unable to withstand it, he would surely have gone demented. Death would have been better; it would have been a living hell.

Satisfying Lear was the only goal in Luo Fei's mind going to the second stage. That was why he couldn't care less about the consequences. This approach of "swallowing" would eventually kill him.

Lear had not done anything, yet Zhuo Yun and the rest were already very obedient. They needed to prove their worth to Lear. Otherwise, unless Lear was dead, they would have a tough time in the Saint Sect. A rebel would not deserve a good end.

The Dark Knight battle team led by González was also one of the top ten battle teams. The rise of the Darkness Empire was amazing. They had also received much attention in this competition.

But all the captains knew that González had lost to Wang Zheng with his tail tucked between his legs. But the people of Darkness Empire did not care. The spoils go to the victor – such a simple principle.

Saruman Snake: Wang Zheng, Achilles, Lie Xin, and Snow Li.

Dark Knight: González, Matonna, Dows, Leland, Sherman.

Not to mention Ghost King González. Words about his battle with Wang Zheng at the qualifier did not spread. As captains, none of them were gossipers. Besides, there was still a vast difference between a qualifying match and the actual match.

However, looking at the line-up of Saruman Snake, Wang Zheng would play a key role in the team. Together with the all-rounded Achilles, with his state and ability to see the overall situation, especially his cool-headedness. As the vice-captain, he was genuinely at the core of the command, making it a problem for all. The tank Mu Zheng was already a mainstay of SIG, having lost his position to Vincent and benched for a long time. The scout positions were filled by Zhang Shan and Lie Xin. The sniper position was the only position that was a little vulnerable. It was filled by the genius girl, Snow Li, who had not had enough opportunities to demonstrate her skills. This position was not really required according to Saruman Snake's current style. But tactics were just tactics. In truth, no matter the combat style, the eventual winner would be the one who played to the extreme.

Compatibility was the best.

Saruman Snake truly possessed this aura now. González and the rest had noticeably prepared long and hard for this, investigating every member of Saruman Snake. When facing Saruman Snake, do not be pretentious – no one was qualified to be.

The first round was of utmost importance. Battles of the forwards generally determined the course of the competition.

Competitors from both teams entered the arena.

Representing the Dark Knight battle team – González!

Everyone was stunned. It seemed passable on second thought. This was because no one was confident challenging Wang Zheng. Not everyone was ruthless. Most of the people competed for the sake of victory. González, nonetheless, had a certain level of success against Achilles. Besides, González had yet to reveal his Ability X. A gravity ability was like tiger balm, relying more on IQ. In a head-to-head confrontation, it would not be as lethal.

At least González did not care

However, representing Saruman Snake in the first round was… Wang Zheng.

Ai Xiaolu and Luo Er laughed happily. They guessed that González would never be hard-nosed. There was no lack of antagonists, but there were only five people who dared to challenge Wang Zheng. Unlike Achilles, Wang Zheng was a warrior. He yearned for powerful battles, just as he yearned to battle Luo Fei, who was at the peak of his game.

Wang Zheng would be less interested if this ability appeared from Lear. Even if Lear was strong, it would be repulsive. However, Wang Zheng would long for a gratifying battle if it appeared from Luo Fei. Not everyone would be fortunate enough to choose his own path. Therefore, it would give Wang Zheng great pleasure to be able to see such a matchup.

González's expression changed slightly. He did not expect this possibility. However, he still felt that Wang Zheng would seek stability. Yet they still met.

His techniques were better than Wang Zheng's. This, González was very confident of. However, Wang Zheng possessed some unusual techniques. But the techniques would be dented during mech battles, resulting in the battle of Ability Xs. Wang Zheng's techniques were not outstanding. The primary objective in the five elements – fire, ice, and wind, as well as compound ability – was to increase lethality. It would not be as difficult to defend as Luo Fei and Di Maria's Ability Xs, which were also hard battle-types.

Honestly, what Wang Zheng was skilled at had been scrutinized by many people. He would rely on the landslide and the revolving shovel as his main winning technique. The ice-fire combo was his greatest trump card. However, this ability required time. In other words, if his opponent did not allow him the time, or was able to seize the opportunity, the outcome would be completely different.

A person was bound to break under constant scrutiny no matter how powerful they were. Some habits were unbeknownst to themselves, but not their enemies.

The person who would know you most profoundly in this world would most definitely be your enemy.

Chapter 1145: Blade and Sword

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

All the members of the big battle teams were present in this round. The reason laid on the fact that by watching Wang Zheng repeatedly, you would be able to feel his subtle movements and rhythms. You would then get use to those movement and rhythm and uncover the means to deal with him. Afterall, they were in the same grade.

Of course, basically no one wanted to compete with Wang Zheng in physical technique. His single punch had devastated Qiqin Nacchai's finger technique. Truly chilling. However, a mech would definitely unable to exert such power.

At González's age and experience, being distracted would only last momentarily. He soon regained his composure and chose his mech – Ghost Warrior.

In order to fight against Wang Zheng, there must be a determination to stare death in the eye and be resurrected. González was a man of the world. He had to take a risk. He would have to use his experience that he had over Wang Zheng to finish him off.

The Wind God – Storm Swordsman. Hercules – Storm Swordsman!

Storm Swordsman!

González's trademark was his speed. Physical technique – Lion Thunder was definitely of little use here. The most critical factor was González's Ability X. Professional soldiers were better at keeping secrets, and the Ghost King was the most stable in this area.

It was well known that González was a very skilful at wielding a blade. The Ghost Warrior was also a special mech specially created by the Darkness Empire to facilitate swift blade maneuvers. The mech's alloy sabre was made using the relatively rare hundred forging method. To include craftsmanship as part of the assembly of a mech seemed ridiculous in this day and age, but the effect was, in fact, quite amazing. The Ghost Warrior was also a state-of-the-art piece of equipment for the special forces of the Darkness Empire.

Storm Swordsman, a mech from Earth. It was well-known for a period of time because of the fusion of some gravity energy mines. However, ultimately, this mech was not as popular as the Wind God. Both the Storm Swordsman and the Wind God had a special characteristic – both were relatively fragile. The merit was both were both, although the Storm Swordsman was not as flexible as the Wind God, so it gradually faded off. However, the Ghost Warrior was different. This mech was a masterpiece of the Darkness Empire. After being tested on the battlefields, every aspect of its specs had been enhanced.

Wang Zheng chose this mech to compete against González on sabre and sword fight.

González was very worried initially. But when he saw Wang Zheng's choice of mech, he breathed a sigh of relief. He was very fearful that Wang Zheng would choose monsters like the Wind God or the Hercules. Honestly, he would not know how to deal with the situation, but the opponent had chosen the Storm Swordsman, a mech that he had used previously. So he was well-aware of its advantages and disadvantages. The attack methods and patterns were his speciality. Wang Zheng was courting his own death.

"What is the relationship between Wang Zheng and Ye Zisu?" Luo Er asked feebly. This guy would continue to advertise for OMG at every opportunity he got. There was a need to understand that the Ghost Warrior topped the ranking in the market as the number one seller for this type of mech, and smashed the records of the Storm Swordsman in a few star domains.

"A childhood friend." Ai Xiaolu laughed. Luo Er's character was quite peculiar. Sometimes she was mature and composed like an old politician. Other times, she was like a child.

"This guy is dreadful!" commented Lou Er deviously. "He has wasted the youth of a talented, young girl!��

Ai Xiaolu smiled. "Don't look at others through thy own eyes".

Wang Zheng did not disrespect his opponent. As one of the top ten captains and a mature member of the special forces, he was definitely skilful. Combat skills could only represent part of his skills. Among his opponents, González was the most composed, running unswervingly, without hesitation. This was not a question of reputation. It could be said to be cowardice or, from another point of view, this was a true warrior; understanding when to charge, when to retreat, when to fight for life.

Using a similar type of mech was undoubtedly the best choice when dealing with such an enemy because it could not be restrained easily.

"Although it cannot be restrained easily, will Wang Zheng's understanding in this respect be comparable with González's? This guy's nickname is Ghost King, and he has a more thorough understanding of the Ghost Warrior," Di Maria said. Di Maria was feeling the pressure. The performances of the other students from Elite Academy X were increasingly stunning. As an Aslan person who was playing in this home match, he felt embarrassed, hoping that someone could trip.

"You can tell just by looking," said Qiankun Zadeh. Having said that, looked towards Lin Feng. Lin Feng was a blue-blooded Aslan person, exemplifying all the excellent qualities of an Aslan citizen. He could feel that Lin Feng was initially indifferent to this SIG, but subsequent to the performance of Wang Zheng, Luo Fei, and the others, he began to gradually show interest. As the main talent identified for grooming by the military academy, he had once heard the principal mention Lin Feng unintentionally.

This person would assist His Highness, Aina, who would lead Aslan to the peak of the Milkyway Alliance, in the future.

After Wang Zheng demonstrated such tyrannical strength, so did Luo Fei. Lin Feng had since taken a serious attitude in this SIG. No one knew what Lin Feng's expertise was, but one thing was for sure: neither Qiankun Zadeh nor Di Maria could compete with him.

Principal Lin Hong had proposed to allow him and Lin Feng to have a good fight. But his principal declined, on the grounds that he was afraid that he would lose his confidence.

Sitting beside Lin Feng, Qiankun Zadeh could feel a sense of satisfaction from Lin Feng's eyes.

Who could withstand this kind of loneliness?

The battlefield of the two mecha. Tactics were of little use to these two. It would be an intense battle between a swordsman and a knifeman.

The Ghost Warrior revealed two forged blades, unpretentious. He knew what to do as they had fought in hand-to-hand combat before. The double-blade flow was his trump card. The Ghost Warrior's strength was in offense, not in defence. Substitute attack with defence.

As soon as the two opponents stood up, the Ghost Warrior attacked immediately. A professional soldier could adjust his situation more rapidly, and was effective at disrupting the rhythm of others.

The double blades slashed ceaselessly, not affording the Storm Swordsman any room for retreat. The Storm Swordsman was very nimble, but he needed room to display this. This, the Ghost Warrior was very clear of. So he was using the double blade oppression, forcing Wang Zheng to fight him head-on.

Wang Zheng was unruffled. The Storm Swordsman defended firmly. Although the double blades were ferocious, the pace at which Wang Zheng was moving was also not to be taken too lightly. Everyone was focused on Wang Zheng attacks, but no one had realized that to have gotten this far, Wang Zheng relied, to a large extent, on defence, and his pace was also crucial.

Plum Blossom Steps, ever-changing, comprising countless varieties of changes. Pulling apart or closing in the distance completely would throw off the opponent, rendering them powerless to display their techniques. This was truly terrifying. This seemingly chaotic pace was the real essence, laying the foundation to Wang Zheng's invincibility.

What seemed to be an attack that could have easily killed the Storm Swordsman did not achieve its expected result. González's attacks were becoming increasingly awkward, not knowing what to do. It was evident that his strikes had yet to reach their full potential. As the Storm Swordsman conferred his sword, part of the power rebounded. Another strike, but it came out short, missing the mech. It was so close…

It was a close shave. Once was accidental, repeatedly was fatal. Was this playing with fire?

Chapter 1146: Darkness of the Soul

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Obviously not. González knew too well. It was similar to sparring with a lesser opponent. It was seemingly dangerous but was actually a good reaction. He was able to anticipate his opponent's attacking format; the slightest maneuver, either attack or defense. The variation could be anticipated within himself.

Equally skilled in physical combat and sword fighting, this was a hard pill to swallow.

Wang Zheng and González had fought before. In his physical combat state, he could basically analyze the opponent's combat format and rhythm. Wang Zheng was different. He had no personal traits. He was usually the most difficult opponent to encounter.

González's double blades were just about to strike but were hit immediately by the Storm Swordsman.

Surging… Boom…

The Ghost Warrior retreated violently. González panted hard. He had used his full energy in the attack, but his opponent only needed one third of his energy to defend against that. Physical exhaustion apart, this was a real mental blow.

His confidence was definitely shaken, despite his reluctance. During the qualifier battle, he had already lost. Initially, he thought that it would make a difference with the addition of the mech. After all, with an additional gigantic piece of equipment, and some people would lose the feeling of freedom they had during physical combat. However, it was different for Wang Zheng; his control of a mech was as good as his physical combat, and his understanding was even better.

There was no way he could win, even through a fierce battle. Not a chance!

Silence filled the battleground. The Ghost Warrior's focus was on a quick and endless attack, but González remained still.

Unlike the audience, he was unable to see clearly. Not a murmur could be heard in the arena. In fact, everyone was staring at the Storm Swordsman.

Liken a mentoring game, Wang Zheng was demonstrating how to deal with the Ghost Warrior's Double-Blade Flow. This made the ferocious unparalleled Double-Blade Flow seem particularly vulnerable.

Li Feng and company kept watch on the Storm Swordsman's maneuvers. They could sense that there were many variations. In Lin Feng's mind, all the maneuvers that the Storm Swordsman had made had all been connected, forming a beautiful Plum Blossom Trail.

Seemingly only a few variations, but the variations were only superficial. Wang Zheng's steps were three-dimensional.

There were two analytical methods in Aslan's battle techniques. One was two-dimensional, which was used by both nations to this day. The other was the three-dimensional tactics, which was researched by Aslan in the recent years. Seemingly, it had only a few variations, but the variations were only superficial. Wang Zheng's steps were three-dimensional.

The level of difficulty was amazing, and what Wang Zheng had demonstrated today was the three-dimensional tactics.

Lin Feng was delighted. Who was Wang Zheng? Lin Feng would not believe that Wang Zheng could have comprehended it himself. This was the fruit of wisdom of the Aslan Empire Research Institute.

This would not be possible even through pure talent.

This was the ultimate level in the pursuit of skill. Talent alone was not enough. It came with tenacious training. At Wang Zheng's age, it was amazing!

Those who did not understand the three-dimensional tactics would never be able to understand the subtleties.

This was what depressed González, and it was driving him crazy. What he was feeling now was pressure, something that had not appeared in a long time.

Bang…

González threw a blade. Hands clasped; the Ghost Warrior raised his arms. His Ability X exploded instantly. He would lose hope in himself if this continued.

This was the power of the Earth rank. The remaining forged blade burned with a dark aura. González belonged to the rare dark element, belonging to the five major elements.

The Storm Swordsman's Ability X also exploded completely. An Ability X could be dealt with by a certain level of Ability X, but Wang Zheng did not try to suppress his opponent purposefully.

The blade's black aura appeared wavy, giving out an extremely dangerous sensation. This characteristic was rare, and was not something that the regular five elements could defend against.

The Storm Swordsman had no obvious tendency. Typically, Ability X would have shown signs of its attributes by now – be it wind, ice, fire, or a compound ability. But Wang Zheng kept his ability hidden.

This was too tiresome!

The ability to react required time. Facing a dark force, especially if the other party was still an unknown, the best option was to strike first.

The Ghost Warrior's power was congregating continuously. Instead of expanding, the blade's strength was beginning to be restrained, desperately being compressed. It seemed that González was setting up for a fatal blow.

Of course, Wang Zheng may have been planning teleportation, frustrating the Ghost Warrior's packed blow. However, this was a dangerous move. The teleportation boxes definitely created many variables, but it would be dreadful to be too obsessed with this.

The Ghost Warrior attacked convincingly, quietly. In an instant, the forged blade rushing towards the black lightning had reached its zenith.

From the corner of his mouth, González drew a cold smile – Ghost Shriek!

With Storm Swordsman as the center, a black enclosure had descended, covering a five-meter radius. It looked as if it was formed by countless spirits, with ear-piercing screams, shooting straight through to the soul. It was unstoppable.

Wave after wave, it was way more brutal than Wang Zheng's Lion Thunder.

Under the stimulation of these spiritual shackles, everything seemed to darken. Regardless of which element one possessed, the dark power was one of a kind. Intruding in an instant, a single shriek would kill the weak-minded instantly. González's strength would be enhanced when a person died to this ability. One fifth of the opponents' power would basically be absorbed. González was nicknamed the Ghost King not because he was skilled at using the Ghost Warrior, but rather because of this devouring ability. Although unrespectable, it was brutally ruthless.

González dared not underestimate his opponent, Wang Zheng. Poised, the forged blade struck.

Soul Eater Shrieks!

The black blade slammed like a hurricane, with ear-piercing shrieks booming. This dark element had the rare ability to possess the soul, rendering anyone defenseless.

This was the key to González becoming one of the top ten captains. This was a skill meant for killing, not for sparring.

Yet Wang Zheng… this idiot feigned excessively.

The aura of the blade sealed off the air above. The surroundings were overcast by the wailings of the spirits. It was questionable if the teleportation box was useful at the moment, let alone moved.

RUMBLE…

With strength soaring violently, the shrieking sounded repulsive, even outside the halls. It felt as chilling as being possessed by ghosts.

Dark element – a tendency similar to a human's negativity. It had nothing to do with good or evil. Yet it had the negative ability to kill, and was often the most effective at it.

Demonstrating this strength at SIG was inappropriate, but if this could kill Wang Zheng and absorb one-fifth of his strength, González was willing to take any punishments.

Any rushing force could not be stopped.

The Storm Swordsman held his ground even though the energy was spreading outwards. Not dodging… the energy shield wasn't being used either.

This move was a direct attack on the pilot…

Undiscerning pretence was fatal – Lear desperately wanted to say this. He wanted to stand up and sneer vigorously, but he remained quiet because he was dumbfounded!

Even if González's attack was based primarily on dark mental strength, what the hell was the blade's aura about?

How was there no damage to the mech?

Growl.

The Storm Swordsman had an energy trajectory. Growl… Lightning curved, teleportation!

It was fatal to be distracted in front of Wang Zheng. The light of the sword struck!

Chapter 1147: Golden Wind Wall

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Growl

González also used teleportation. This was the swiftest instinctive reflex. The Ghost Warrior disappeared…

González's Ghost Warrior reappeared six meters away, staggering. The back of the mech had been split apart, sparks flying.

Wang Zheng smiled slightly. Truly a professional soldier. This reaction was really astonishing. His trajectory curved, then teleportation, followed by a sudden lunging stab, were still not quick enough, otherwise the Ghost Warrior would not have gotten out.

The ability to fight would, in the end, transform into instinct. In the ever-changing battlefield, this was the ability that would save lives.

González frowned. The alarm inside his mech rang constantly. Although he had been slashed in the back and he was in danger, it was not fatal.

He could escape during the qualifier, but he was unable to retreat here. He knew that most of the captains might have seen that, and most would have been mocking him, but this didn't matter. As a professional soldier, he had learned not to take things too seriously. Qiqin Nacchai had died because he was not observant. So his death was not unjustified.

The Ghost Warrior's forged blade went crushing in squarely. The dark element energy burned like flames on the surface of the mech.

It was at this moment that everyone detected a layer of faint golden shimmer on the surface of González the Storm Swordsman… What was the power of this element?

Such pure and brilliant hues have never been seen in either the minor five elements or the major five elements.

In the cockpit, a military-grade injection had already been pierced into the neck. González had always had the means to bring it in. In fact, the organizing committee did not even consider this possibility. This injection was very rare, so nobody expected it to be used during SIG.

Yet, González used it nonetheless. González took this into consideration after the qualifying games. As luck would have it, he came up against the Saruman Snakes again.

The veins on the neck protruded. González's pupils burned with dark light. A strange and stifling atmosphere cut through the air.

An unstoppable surge of energy permeated, sending evil violent chill. However, González's thoughts were unparallelly clear. This was not those junks from the black market that would drive a person crazy upon use. A warrior needed the most imperturbable and effective thing.

A strong body could sustain such mental outburst. The dark element had always been uncommon. The attacks that he had used previously, had been more about the spirit-driven energy. Although the impact of the mental outburst was extensive, it lacked physical attacks. The PPO injection helped to elevate the situation.

Wang Zheng could feel the sudden surge in his opponent's strength. It was strange. But this was obviously not the time to ponder this problem.

The black flames were burning. The attacks had been furious and chilling. However, just like a ferocious dog that did not bite, the exaggerated strength displayed previously, had now diminished. But the burning "black flame" was in a different league altogether.

González knew which ability Wang Zheng employed to defend against his attacks and effectively so. His dark element ability was virtually invincible because the conventional element could not defend against it. Even the best Earth element within the five elements dwarfed in comparison to his ability.

Boom….

This was the true Ghost Warrior, ghost warrior from hell. Blade war – erupted!

The black aura of the blade split the air. Stabbing… anything that was swept past felt like it had been cauterized, leaving a sea of charred black.

In addition, the attacking trajectory was an unstable wave-like locus…

The Storm Swordsman's trajectory traversed. González's let out a cold sneer from the corner of his mouth. The Storm Swordsman's energy shield activated almost simultaneously.

Growling .

The blade's aura exploded, shattering into several shrapnel.

One of the auras teared towards the Storm Swordsman. Upon hitting the energy shield, instantaneously penetrated through the energy shield. The Storm Swordsman leaned back but was swept aside, immediately eroding a part of the mech.

Terrifyingly, that black section was still eroding away.

The energy shield could not stop it. The power of the darkness had a strong phagocytic effect. This was similar to that of Luo Fei, but different at the same time. This power was the assimilation of instinct.

This was the scorching, dark fire from hell!

"Display your true strength Wang Zheng unless you want to end it this way. Dance of the Dark Fire could not be eliminated through the physics!"

"Demonstrate your true strength Wang Zheng unless you want to end it this way! Dance of the Dark Fire could not be eliminated through the physics!"

X ability could only be eliminated by X ability. This was the first principle of the X ability.

Wang Zheng laughed. Of course, he was aware of this. But this was a rare opportunity to encounter such an opponent. He wanted to relish this valuable experience a little longer

The most invincible thing in the world was knowledge; also known as vision. Only when attacked would one realize know what this power meant.

Wang Hao was curious about being fully detached from the power of the minor five elements, but would not try lightly. After all, the power of the five elements were most essential elements to his practices and physique.

Growling .

That golden shimmer re-emerged on the Storm Swordsman again, and the grim hell fire tattered, disappearing into the golden shimmer.

González's pupils contracted rigidly. This was the second time he met an opponent with an X ability that could restrain him completely. The so-called restraint was actually relative, derived from the confrontation of the realm. But most of the strength, even if it was stronger than his, was not his match. This was the difference in the grade.

Compound ability? The basic character could not be changed. It was still a low-level quality. Why?

This was not González's only doubt. It was also everyone's doubt. Had Wang Zheng's ability altered?

Or was this his new technique?

Growling… the Storm Swordsman returned to normal. The alloy sword opened up in a defensive posture allowing González to attack?

This courage was like going against the gods, but no one was surprised. There was nothing this person named Wang Zheng would not dare to do, if he dared to utter derogatory words in the presence of Kashawen.

González laughed. He did not believe that there was any one in this world who could withstand the full power of the hell fire.

Coagulated!

The breath became heavier and more laborious. The skies seemed to turn darker. The Ghost Warrior burned all over. The forged blade drew a circle in the air. Under the shadows of the blade, González held his hands tightly across his right shoulder.

In an instant, a black energy caved in. Boom… the black flames burst into the skies.

— Dark Soul Decapitation!

Boom…

A black bolt of lightning blasted towards the Storm Swordsman as the forged blade struck. The spiritual power carried the dark energy in space like the blood of the undead, swallowing the Storm Swordsman.

At this time, the alloy sword of the Storm Swordsman waved silently. A golden beam burst, and a Golden Wind Wall appeared in front of the mech.

— The Sighing Wall!

Boom…

The vicious dark energy burst into a mist in front of the wind wall, barely damaging it???

Yet the Ghost Warrior's forged blade had cut through the Wind Wall. This was González's killer move. As a professional soldier, he needed to be prepared for the worst.

Yet the Storm Swordsman's attack had started. Growl…

Another attack ensued. Growl…

Stabbing, stabbing stabbing… Growl…

The Storm Swordsman's attack was followed by a penetrating stab that completely split the Ghost Warrior apart.

The space between the two mecha was battered beyond recognition by the dark energy. As for the Storm Swordsman, it remained radiant.

Saruman Snake WIN!

Among the special forces, dark energy was undoubtedly the most respected. It was no weaker than the time and space abilities, including Luo Fei's devouring ability. These were all the best-in-class.

Such power was, however, useless against Wang Zheng.

What was this?

Chapter 1148: Reverence

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

It would definitely be an agony for anyone in the arena to be confronted with this dark element. They would have to be prepared to force the enemy to a corner and perish together. Yet Wang Zheng had defeated his opponent easily.

Anyone with the basic theoretical knowledge of Ability X knew that the minor five elements would be unable to withstand the dark element.

The spectator hall was overcast with an oppressive atmosphere. It was oppressive because they were competitors, and they needed to battle. But future opponents gave them a feeling of wanting to escape.

What kind of power was this?

This Wang Zheng was no longer the strongest of the strongest. He had improved again!

Yes, he was improving continuously.

This time nobody explained, nobody uttered a word. Wang Zheng, of course, did not feel responsible to do so either. This was the only way to deal with the dark element if one had yet to fully comprehend the balance of the five elements. González needed to strike first; to finish off his opponent. However, with the balance of the five elements, the minor five elements were an absolute circle, circulating exclusively around him. The dark element was the same – at least González had not been overpowered thus far.

The dark element was not totally unbeknownst to Wang Zheng. In the earlier years, the Normalization Technique was based on the major five elements; land, sea, fire, air and space. Of which, space comprised of light and darkness, and some even greater strength – very oppressive, like what Charcoal had said. Humans would not be able to ensure it, at least not in his current state. In order to be better in touch with the universe, one needed to master the foundation of the five elements, and constantly perfect the energy of the human body; otherwise, the obsession of the power of the universe would ultimately lead to desolation.

Thus, the dark force bore no mysterious suppression on Wang Zheng.

Thus, the dark force bore no mysterious suppression on Wang Zheng. It could be said that he and Aslan had an ill-fated relationship. Having gained an understanding of the balance of the five elements propelled him to the next level. This was stronger than the breakthrough of individual ability. At the same time, it was also an enhancement of his foresight and state.

He and Aslan truly had an ill-fated relationship. Having gained an understanding of the balance of the five elements, propelled him to the next level. This was stronger than the breakthrough of individual ability. At the same time, it was also an enhancement of his foresight and state.

Wang Zheng and González had been sent out, and both were in good shape. This meant that the team battle was in the preparations.

However, the momentum favoured Saruman Snake. Although González was very strong indeed, and there is an endless stream of strength, he fell short in the end.

But González still could not understand how Wang Zheng had managed to thwart his attacks.

After taking the lead, Saruman Snake focused on the line-up. Lie Xin was up in the second match. The Darkness Empire battle team did not give up. Although González had lost, the captain was in excellent condition. The team battle could still exercise its strength. The Darkness Empire also wanted a fighting chance.

However, a miracle did not happen in the second battle. Although Lie Xin was a woman, her domineering Tyrannical Fire Technique was incredibly overbearing and overcame her opponent with ease. It was a closely contested battle. Unfortunately, the opponent's Ability X was suppressed by the Tyrannical Fire Technique. In terms of physical combat, as a descendant of the Lie family, Lie Xin, of course, would not be inferior to anyone.

Saruman Snake won the second battle. When Wang Zheng was around, the entire Saruman Snake battle team seemed to be enveloped with an invincible force of confidence. It felt as if all the members of the team had an increase of twenty percent in fighting power, and the fortunes by one percent. On the other hand, the morale of the opponent was reduced, and so too were the fortunes. Wang Zheng had become a symbol of terror by now.

Even the members of the Dark Knight battle team were not losing their confidence. Once they lost their belief, they would not be able to show tenacity in the battle.

While preparing for the third match, the organizing committee intervened and took González away. This was because he had taken illegal drugs during the match. While SIG would not deliberately check for contraband, it did not mean that it could be used, especially contrabands like PEDs. This contraband was used only during life and death situations. In reality, the Darkness Empire was a little foolish now, which was also the predicament that many empires were currently facing, and despite their desire, this problem was something that the Silver League was unable to manage.

Saruman Snake effortlessly advanced to the last sixteen, appearing… extremely easy.

The opponent was terrorized once again in this battle. Despite González's used of the PPO, he was still defeated by Wang Zheng. This was indeed strange.

The battles for day two had finished. The Arbiter Soulless battle team had advanced easily and indisputably. Arbiter was still powerful.

However, every major team was reviewing Wang Zheng after the match. Reviews were necessary; otherwise, death would be imminent. When did this fellow have a breakthrough again? The reviews were simply unable to keep up!

The Golden Wind Wall was obviously not the power. If it was the power of the wind, the Storm Swordsman would have already been blown into shreds.

Gold from the five elements? It could not withstand that either.

Compound?

Compound ability had always been used for attacks. Compound had nebulous indicators. This Golden Wind Wall did not have any clear indication of its element. Was this a new category of ability?

Trait type?

This was a huge problem, and everyone was most fearful of this indiscernible power.

Wang Zheng was accustomed to all this, and was unconcerned with them. This had made him stronger instead. While the manifestation could be displayed, the core had to remain a secret. The stronger the power, the easier it was to be restrained. Although he was not afraid, he had a normal sense of security nonetheless.

Kashawen was watching the recording in her hands while Mitchell, who was beside her, was presenting the information.

"Your Highness, this person's combat ability is among the best of the best, and he will definitely a contender for first place," said Mitchell candidly. Aslan evidently did not want Wang Zheng to be crowned champion.

It was impossible for Wang Zheng not to draw their attention since the qualifying matches. Dealing with this was indeed a problem.

It was also tricky to deal with Princess Aina. The rules had been fixed and everyone had to follow those rules. If Kashawen broke the rules, Aina was also not one to be trifled with.

However, if Wang Zheng were to be crowned champion, it would prove to be a greater setback. No matter how strong he was, he was still a warrior. In fact, the stronger they were, the less likeable they were. This type of person was suitable to be the captain of special forces. However, it was pointless because this would drive the difference in status between a warrior and a princess even farther.

"It was it the finals yet. Let's wait and see," said Kashawen.

"Your Highness, this is still dangerous. What if…" Mitchell said worriedly after considering all the opinions of the others. This Saruman Snake could likely advance to the finals. This was too dangerous.

Kashawen smiled, and Mitchell stopped talking. She knew Her Highness had already formed her opinion. Whenever he saw this smile, he knew that no one could escape from Kashawen's hands.

No matter who they were.

Having effortlessly advanced to the top sixteen, Zhang Shan and the others' moods were undoubtedly exceptional. They sat waiting for their competitors. With their experience in IG and their calmness, watching someone else's competition was a completely different sentiment, especially when watching the competitions of some of the powerful opponents. The top sixteen was manageable. The next stage would basically not be too different. They could even encounter an "old friend".

Wang Zheng was in an excellent state. So too was the entire Saruman Snake battle team. Although not unimpregnable, there was still a chance of winning no matter who they encountered. The factors outside the arena were even more worrying. Wang Zheng did not believe that the Prime Minister did not necessarily equate trustworthiness, especially for these sorts of people. Ai Xiaolu had also reminded him that the Saruman Snake battle team be wary of Kashawen's under-handed tricks. It was easier to be guarded against out-right tricks than the under-handed ones.

Chapter 1149: Power of Light

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

With the top sixteen battles climaxing. The Gemini Gravity battle team was the third team to advance. It was a long and fierce process. The final teams battled for over an hour, only to win by a small margin

In comparison, lady luck was not smiling on the Imperial Glory battle team, led by Di Maria. Their opponent, the Tiantong Star battle team, advanced to the fourth round through sheer luck; cruising to a three-nil win.

The battle between the Astina Justice battle team and the Light of the Sons battle team was a battle of the titans. The Astina Justine battle team was a traditionally the stronger team. But the Light of the Sons battle team was a roadblock that every team was wary of.

Even during the qualifying rounds, basically no one wanted to face the Atlanteans and the Mayans. Not because of any alliances, but rather because their assessing tactics were unusual. Often times, they would sacrifice themselves heavily in order to win.

There was no doubt that the Maya Empire was the real super power.

Of course, the opponent in this round was also a force to be reckoned with. Although the odds were stacked against the Astinians, there was still a chance of winning.

Captain Ogan, twenty-five years of age, an Earth-rank warrior. His Ability X was rated at the highest level and he was also a power figure. Although not ranked as one of the top ten captains, he was a force to be reckoned with.

In round one, the Astina Justice battle team sent out the most reliable member for probing purposes.

However, when the Mayans sent out their warriors, it angered Astina. Even the audience was shocked. What was this situation!?

Substitutes!

Matt Locatelli sent out the substitutes despite facing the Astina Justice battle team!

Was this madness from Matt Locatelli, or was he being supercilious?

Ogan was absolutely furious!

The Light of the Sons battle team? Did they think they had the ability to glow or did they really think of themselves as sunshine?

"Sidney, show the Mayans the manners of a warrior." Looking across at the Mayans, Ogan, cold and still as stone, obviously did not think much about the Astinians.

He had to admit that the Mayans were strong. However, when it came to one-on-one battles, the Mayans had no advantage. The energy-centred Maya's real power laid in team battles.

"Roar!��

Sidney pounded his chest, his eyes revealing a vicious fighting spirit. Sending the reserves against him? Light of the Sons? Not necessarily sons of the sun, it might just be the candles in the wind.

Wang Zheng was amongst the audience, watching the Light of the Sons battle team, feeling somewhat awkward. There had to be some disparity between the Light of the Sons battle team and the two Mayans beside Lear. The front seats for the contestants had emptied quite a bit. It was a rare sight for the losers to stay behind. After all, those who made it to the main competition were individuals who were prideful, and it would not be wrong to say that they were conceited. Failure meant departure. This was the natural law of humans.

The Van brothers of Arbiter were the ultimate victims. They had had many glorious years, but they suffered an unprecedented defeat at SIG. This was reality; for the lack of any reason. Pressure from the family, the Arbiter Empire, and much more. Their lives had never been easy, and that was life. Wang Zheng could only wish them luck. He was not faring any better either. The more Kashawen did not make her move, the more cautious he needed to be. The only consolation was that Aina had more fighting spirit than before. After all, they were fighting together.

The Dynasty battle team were the hot favorites, but Luo Fei was not around. Ever since that last battle, Fatty Luo had not appeared again. It was rumoured that he had been consumed by his ability and was no longer able to walk. But there was no concrete evidence to this rumour. Luo Fei's energy was not Heaven-rank. With the current level of his Ability X, the way he was "consuming" would definitely have consequences, but to what end? His opponents would wish that Luo Fei would not stand up again. He was frightening. Even if there were consequences, it would only benefit others if he failed.

It was quite a good fortune for many people; with Asura eliminated, and Lou Fei seriously injured. There was nothing to Asura. The people that followed were very fortunate.

Round one.

Sidney came on, fully charged!

The first rule of battle with the Mayans: never compete with long-range firepower with the Mayans.

The Astina battle team was roaring, cheering Sidney on. This was their style, a one-person team, the prayers of the team. Each time anyone came on, it carried the courage of the entire team.

Substitutes?

Go to hell!

Battle was sacred, not be defiled.

Sidney was clear that the key to winning was to get close to the opponent. Once they entered melee range, the Mayans were novice. But he was blade!

However, halfway through the charge, Sidney sensed that something was not right.

The Mayan's Heavenly Crystal King was standing still, not moving at all; with no intention of stopping his approach.

What was this?

Some of the spectators were stunned too. Did it mean that the Mayans were hinting at a close range battle?

Dina Atlas gave a little smile. The Mayans were finally taking that move.

Moving closer!

The two mecha collided head-on!

Sidney burst forward. After closing in, the explosive force of the mech was like a ferocious tiger. In his presence, the Heavenly Crystal King, with beautiful curves, was like a half-undressed woman.

What needed defence was the Mayan's Energy Force Field. It was not a problem for Sidney. What looked like flamboyant attacks may be deemed as a threat during IG, but for SIG, it merely looked good, like a wallpaper.

The Heavenly Crystal King then made his move.

Energy Force Field?

Sidney was prepared. A counter defence, and that would teach the Mayans the meaning of a warrior's pride, the humans' version.

But it was not an Energy Force Field.

Rather, an Energy Light Sabre was drawn.

Bright lights flashed!

The Heavenly Crystal King suddenly disappeared right before Sidney. Vanished right in front of everyone's sight. NO!

Not disappeared, but turned into bright lights.

Distorted and active.

Lights. In a flash, it passed through Sidney's mech.

The Heavenly Crystal King then appeared again behind Sidney.

The Energy Light Sabre made a maneuver.

Decapitated!

Silence filled the arena.

What was this attack???

The Atlanteans were known for their spiritual strength and runes, while the Mayans were known for the use of energy and light. Compared to the high acceptance of the Rune Power, the Mayan technology seemed to be only self-treasured!

Every battle team from all nations were watching. Obviously, it was a headache for the technicians. They needed to grasp the key issue of the problem. They needed to break the code; otherwise, they would be suppressed.

Round two…

Astina's momentum was not destabilized despite the lost in the first round.

"The Mayans have concealed themselves well. However, sicne they have been exposed, they will not stand a second chance us Astinians. This power is nothing but the mere exploitation of lights and illusions. We had simulated the response methods during training. Menkes, your power is best at dealing with this. Go thrash them."

Ogan was a typical Astinian leader. No matter the situation, the momentum should not be lost. Motivation was needed even though he did not feel like he was convincing.

However…

It was useless.

Menkes tried his best. Second only to Ogan. He was already within the threshold of the Earth rank; he just needed one transformation.

Facing the Heavenly Crystal King, his method was not too bad. However, he only lasted two attacks longer than Sidney. Facing an opponent that he could not defend as the opponent could suddenly turn into light, changing its tracks, failure was inevitable.

Two-zero. The Astina Justice battle team was standing on the edge of the cliff. Ogan stepped up.

This was an Earth-rank expert!

Would the Mayans still send on the reserves?

Two-zero. Another win would take them straight to the next round, avoiding the team battles, which had too many variables.

The most reliable scenario was for Matt Locatelli take on the challenge himself.

However, Matt pointed to the person behind him.

Still a reserve!

Ogan was fuming mad. He was an Astinian, a blazing messenger, an Earth-rank warrior. Reserves?

Battle cries!

Ogan was burning.

But the audience was silent.

The Earth-rank expert merely lasted an additional five minutes. Ogan's Ability X was a trait technique – Puppet Force Field. It could create a mental suppression, even to the point of mind control.

However, this was utterly useless against the Mayans. Five minutes into the battle, entering into a frenzy mode, Ogan was utterly suppressed.

In the last second of the five minutes, Ogan could not evade the eventual fate of decapitation.

The timing was so accurate that one wondered if it was intentional.

Silence, followed by many debates. Much research had been carried out on the Mayans' technology by the different countries. But none were as strong as this group of people!

Matt Locatelli did not accept any interview after the competition. Whether it was disrespect or arrogance, it was of no consequence. The Mayans were displaying their power everywhere. Compared to Atlantis, who had enjoyed many glorious years, the Mayans' core technology was still a mystery to the humans.

As the loser, Astina seemed despondent. Sometimes, advancing to the next round might not be a good thing. Losing like this was devastating. Their intelligence personnel had to bear the primary responsibility. There was complete lack of understanding of the Mayans' battle tactics and skills.

Before the humans could find a solution, whether it was the first team or the reserves, the end results would be the same.

Chapter 1150: Striving for Betrothal Gift!

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Before what the Mayans had left behind had even been undone, Macaah Republic's Atomic battle team had been unexpectedly defeated by the Earthworm Federation.

The Mayans and Astina Federation were the same – they were traditional old power countries, and their capabilities were not that far apart. The Atomic battle team also had two Earth-rank warriors. Although taking first place might be a stretch, they were publicly acknowledged as a team with the ability to enter the top eight.

Having matched up against the Earthworm Federation's Demonic Dragon battle team, which had been critiqued as "standard" and "ordinary", in the top sixteen, it could be considered a sure win battle.

In the end, it had instead become a three to one, which left people dumbstruck.

On top of that, the Earthworm Federation's Demonic Dragon's captain did not even enter the battle!

Zhou Yun looked for Lear the first minute he could. "There's something wrong with the Earthworm Federation. It could be possible that…"

Lear slightly nodded his head. He had also seen it, "Go investigate a bit."

If it were some general ancient martial arts, then there would be nothing to bother with, but if it were their competitor, he would need to ponder over it carefully. It was just that he did not expect that while the Mayans' real strength was so great, the two Mayans with him were not of that level. But he knew the reason. It was because of the level of energy conversion within the body. These two fellows' energy conversion was not as strong as that of the Child of Light battle team's. With the Mayans, if the body did not evolve by ten percent, the effect that it would bring about would be different. It could be said that amongst all living civilisations, the Mayans desired the most was to become the light, the gods. Even till now, they had not given up.

The battle continued on. SIG's skill level was clearly above IG's and much greater than the level of any country that wasn't involved. There were a few unexpected situations that frequently emerged upon entering the actual competition. There was no one that was absolutely strong.

On the transport route side, Yan Xiaosu was more relaxed. Even if HU had only revealed a bit of strength, it was like a sudden clap of thunder. He could feel the disparity in his bones, the difference between aristocrats, and new money. So much so that it made him recall that he once sold sanitary pads, but this was a necessary road to take. Yan Xiaosu did not ask, but he knew deep down that it was almost certainly related to Princess Anna; otherwise, there would be no for HU to be as such. Afraid that this was just responsibility. Wang Zheng neither spoke nor asked, he only wanted to get it done with even more. They had to prepare an abundant betrothal gift for Wang Zheng. Boss was taking a princess as his wife, not marrying into her family, so they would have to work hard.

The KO Tita Business Organisation and HU Shipping joined hands in strength, leaving Margate Interstellar Airline dumbstruck.

This really was some peoples' joy and others' distress, innocent yet unjustly implicated. Fuller, who was placed in charge of obtaining this transport route project, nearly cracked his head to bits, but he still could not understand why HU would work with the KO Tita Business Organisation. There was no reason to do so!

All the more, this was HU Shipping!

Looking at the clause, aside from the addition of gaining from participating in the construction cost, HU had actually no control rights?

It was just a bit of a profit at max? It was simply like letting a fierce tiger become vegetarian. Wasn't it just absurd? Had HU come here just to do a bit of good?

Fuller spat in contempt.

In this age, how many people would provide help in somebody's hour of need? There were only people trying to make something perfect even more perfect, fighting to be in front of others.

It would've been okay if he could not get it, but the shipping alliance that Margate Interstellar Airline had spent an enormous price for previously had fallen apart.

Fuller did not even dare to express his desire to stay. HU had already stated their stand, what more could they do? Go up head to head against HU? He was not that crazy yet.

In the shipping world, what kind of a giant was HU, which had been established for over two hundred years? They had close relations with the Aslan's royal family. Thus, wouldn't it just be making their own selves uncomfortable?

People were in awe as no one explained clearly. In the business world, there was bound to be people who would be unconvinced. They had the backing of the higher-ups in HU, but what would be the outcome?

HU was like the sun at midday, while the opponents were like night blooming cacti that only showed once. The most critical part was that this was business, where the strong feed on the weak.

What made Fuller unable to swallow his anger was that he had to look on helplessly as those people, who had all claimed to be his brothers just yesterday, turned their backs on him to submit a collaboration proposal to KO organisation.

"Chief Yan, the people from YUN company have arrived…"

"Let them wait."

"Okay." The negotiation team's leader smiled, feeling exuberant. He had followed Chief Yan to ten over shipping companies. There were those who gave face and allowed them into their buildings, but some just directly had their security teams block them outside under the hot sun.

Yan Xiaosu smiled. He sure was in the mood to prevent those who had not acknowledged him days before from climbing up the social ladder.

Of course, the issue of collaboration still needed to be discussed. Yan Xiaosu had managed to control the scale very well. These people had come for HU, and at the same time, he was clear that using HU's influence was like borrowing wind – it needed to be just right. If they ended up borrowing a typhoon, it would not be easy to clear the mess.

Although it was pretentious, the progress of the transport route had actually not become smoother because of shipping circle's full cooperation.

The Fairy Star Federation did take the lead, and there were also a few countries that had reached an agreement to cooperate under HU's negotiations. However, there were still a few countries who were still unyielding; they had even allied together, forming a Five Country Conglomerate headed by Helson Federation and Du Ma Free Planet.

It was not that they did not agree on having a transport route built through, but they hoped to gain more benefits. They also requested for the harbours to be managed by the public service personnel they would dispatch and for dividends from the profits that Yan Xiaosu would earn every year.

To put it simply, it would do for Yan Xiaosu and the others to only hold some stocks and receive dividends from there.

This was obviously not possible, as the harbour was the node of the transport route. According to the Milky Way Alliance's practices, the attribution rights belonged to the main authorised party. Their status was equivalent to an embassy. The only difference was that it had an economic function, and at the same time contributed taxes to the countries in the star field.

The negotiations had immediately entered a deadlock. HU had sent a few negotiation teams on their end; however, in the end, it just showed that small devils were hard to deal with. The troubles of the small countries were that they could be easily ignorant and narrow-minded, but their advantage was that because they had few experiences when it came to doing things, they did not have concerns and would dare to act.

If the deadlock continued, HU would definitely pull something huge.

But there would always be something unexpected.

"Chief Yan! Maklou…"

"What happened to Maklou?"

"They sent an official letter over…"

Yan Xiaosu took the document from his secretary's hands, eyes sweeping across the page a few times. His facial expression turned serious in a second.

The Maklou visiting delegation headed by Maklou's governor, Mr. Mobo, would be doing inquiry visits to the countries along the transport route.

This was a very sensitive timing. They wanted to do an inquiry visit, but KO had yet to settle the preceding matters of the transport route.

Unfortunately, the Five Country Conglomerate refused to let it go.

Five Country Conglomerate's meeting.

They were also having an intense discussion on the matter of Maklou's delegation.

Fuller was surprisingly within the meeting. In actuality, the Five Country Conglomerate was able to be formed mainly due to Margate Interstellar Airline's previous work as a go-between, and Fuller was the main person in charge. Although HU had shown their hand, there was not too much of an impact in the first wave of the movement. It had always been Margate Interstellar Airline's tradition to retreat to advance, letting others oppose at the forefront instead.

In addition, having studied the collaboration between HU and KO in detail, there was not much depth to it. Having already showed their strength once, the possibility of a second offense, although not impossible, was very low.

With the current situation, Margate Interstellar Airline could not possibly intervene in the transport route again directly. However, they could earn profits and gain high operability through other methods.

The proposal that they had brought up with Yan Xiaosu was just a smoke screen, an act for HU to see.

Their biggest plan laid with this Five Country Conglomerate. These five puny countries that have never been exposed to society basically would not have the resources or capability to construct and manage the harbour. In the end, wouldn't it be Margate that would have the final say?

The reason he had used to convince the five countries had been simple: HU had not deeply involved themselves and had no interest in it, so how would they be offending them?

"With regards to Maklou, we have done a lot of work, which we believe has helped accumulate quite a bit of dissatisfaction with KO. My suggestion would be to ally with Maklou, and give them a part of the rights and benefits. As long as we can seize the harbour, our future will be even brighter.��

Fuller enthusiastically advocated his theory. "Right now, the transport route is two-sided. Titatitan Star was only one end of it, so Maklou also has the right to turn the tables. As long as we have Maklou tied to our battle plans, we can ignore the rest, including HU Shipping. Of course, we can't fall out with them, so we will prepare shares for them. Everyone would have an easy life. I believe no one would reject such a huge interest!"

Everyone was a businessman, so they would flock together for profits and also part ways for profits!

The leaders of each of the countries all lowered their voices to discuss, nodding their heads once in a while. The magnitude of HU's intervention was not huge. This was also the reason they had persevered on. In addition to the future enormous profits to gain, they had to give it a try regardless. If anything were to happen, did they not have a big talker of a scapegoat in front of them, someone who excelled at casting off the blame.

Fuller was also grasping on to his final chance. He could not lose. Once he lost, everything would go to waste, and the organisation did not need a failure. Maklou and KO's relation was not too close, so there was a huge possibility that they were introduced through Tita. They would definitely have a chance with Maklou as the public relations point!

Chapter 1151: Trump Card

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

SIG did not just revolve around Wang Zheng. All the major formidable teams had also revealed their fangs one after another.

The entrance of the Sword Shield Rose Rider battle team was also widely followed. To be exact, all eyes were on them. That passion, that craze, it sufficiently showed their status within Aslan.

Lin Feng did not stay hidden – he had immediately entered battle in the first round. The mech that he used…

Had a pure silver outer appearance, engraved with many lines of runes. However, it was a runic mecha from humans, and not of the Atlanteans. At the same time, it was different from Elite Academy X's. It had originated from the real Aslan skills.

Kashawen had personally arrived at the arena to watch the battle. The Prime Minister, who had always seemed as if she had given up on SIG, had finally showed her face. She completely disregarded Wang Zheng. It seemed like the "declaration of war" before the qualifying battle had been nothing much.

This was no longer a competition, but instead Aslan's martial arts exhibition.

Aslan has once again moved into the frontlines in the area of mech development.

Lin Feng performed the capabilities, strength, speed, defense, and flexibility of the runic mech perfectly. Sword Shield Rose Rider had advanced with a score of three to one. The warriors had not displayed much of their own strength but had only relied on the mech's superiority to suppress the opponent. At the same time, there was again a new technological innovation in Aslan's new runic mech model. It did not seem like a big issue, but the combat results were absolutely shocking. It was the runic energy shield. The energy hood had been replaced with an energy shield in the right arm of the mech. It could be activated any time, covering seventy percent of the front area of mech. The flexibility was something that the energy hood could not compare to. At the same time, as the energy was concentrated on one area, the tenacity and strength to defend attacks had increased greatly.

Aslan had once again relied on its technology to stun the world. After this battle, all the military experts of each country would be frantic. Would this lead to a new generation of innovation?

This might make the military personnel lose sleep.

The Versailles Empire's Radiance battle team against the Sagittarius Alliance battle team.

The Radiance battle team, as a top ten seeded battle team, evidently held the absolute advantage, winning two rounds continuously. However, at the third round, they were forcefully overturned by the Sagittarius' captain, bringing the decisive round to the team battle.

To the Versailles Empire, this was a disgrace!

The Sagittarius Galaxy's Alliance team did not come from one country, it had been formed by multiple mid-level countries' colleges…

They were of legitimate age. The captain, as the oldest, was only thirty-one years old. Their overall evaluation was that they were a "lower mid" battle team, but in the end, they had dragged the dignified top ten seeded Radiance battle team to the team battle segment!

The anger they felt caused Versailles' Radiance battle team to reveal the claws that they had always kept tightly hidden.

The team's rhythm was impeccably tight. With rapport of greater telepathic connection than those of twins, in addition to their individual capabilities, they oppressively destroyed the Sagittarius Alliance Team, who had just ignited their hopes, with one blow.

Sometimes, hopes would actually cause you to fall from an even more tragic cliff.

"This does not look like team cohesion. It should be that one of the members has an Ability X that can interlink the team's thoughts."

"F*ck, they're already in the top sixteen and yet there is so little intelligence on them."

"It's alright, at least it's better than not having anything."

Each team's intelligence gathering members were all rubbing their heads. Versailles may have exploded in this round, but in actuality, they had exposed a pitifully small amount of information. Out of the ten seeded battle teams, the Radiance battle team's protection work was the tightest.

Versailles had clearly started with a foul beginning.

In the battle of Arbiter's Iron and Steel College's battle team against the Cancer Alliance's Infinite Stars battle team, it had been three rounds of blood oppression.

Captain Ogas directed Dynasty College.

What Mars had left behind, the Iron and Steel College would pick it back up. After all, Mars had originated from the same place, and the fall this time had been a huge blow for the Iron and Steel College. The Iron and Steel battle team had to stand strong. If not, a huge problem would occur in their supply of students for the next three years. If they disappeared, others would grow stronger, and Warrior Soul College would become unrivalled.

Lear evidently disregarded such provocations. Such trifle tauntings totally underestimated Lear's unrivalled skin, it was just that Luo Fei had still not appeared. This fatty seemed to not even have come out to eat at all. His food had been delivered by his teammates, resulting in everyone not gaining a single bit of intelligence at all.

Manalasuo's Golden Wheel battle team and Aslan's Military Officer School battle team had all easily advanced through.

The biggest black horse team of this SIG was the Heaven's Arrow Federation's Harbinger battle team and the Big Bear Federation's Fiery Bear battle team. They had both exhibited valiant battle capabilities no lesser than that of the other teams that had advanced.

For the last advancement battle, Atlantis' Sea Queen battle team was up against the Gandella Federation's Nebula battle team.

There was no suspense at all.

However, the difference this time was that the people of Atlantis had started to reveal their Ability Xs instead of just relying on the runic mecha's formidable might.

With Ability Xs converted with their strong mental strength, in addition to the runic mecha's special capabilities, the Sea Queen battle team was a hurricane that could not be obstructed. Anything that stood in their way would either become a part of that hurricane or have their bodies' torned and bones crushed.

The formidable teams that appeared later were more aggressive than the previous, seemingly stimulated by the Saruman Snake battle team and the Dynasty battle team. Overall, they could crush their opponents to bits just by slightly moving their pinkies, and these formidable teams had exhibited the strength in their entire team's impeccability, especially the suppressiveness in their mech skills.

Unfair?

This was fairness. These teams represented their own countries, and SIG was a competition between countries.

It was at this point that the top sixteen name list was announced: (Irrespective of the rankings)

1. Saruman Snake battle team (Elite Academy X)

2. Soulless battle team (Arbiter Republic)

3. Dynasty battle team (Elite Academy X)

4. Gravity battle team (Gemini Union)

5. Imperial Glory battle team (Elite Academy X)

6. Child of Light battle team (Maya Empire)

7. Demonic Dragon battle team (Earthworm Federation)

8. Sword Shield Rose Rider battle team (Aslan Empire)

9. Radiance battle team (Versailles Empire)

10. Golden Wheel battle team (Manalasuo)

11. Zero Degrees battle team (Hail Cloud Alliance)

12. Sea Queen battle team (Atlantis Empire)

13. Steel battle team (Arbiter Republic)

14. Harbinger battle team (Heaven's Arrow Federation)

15. Military Officer School battle team (Aslan Empire)

16. Fiery Bear battle team (Great Bear Federation)

It may seem as if Elite Academy X was very impressive, but the gloriousness was still of the two countries', Aslan's and Arbiter's, who had also exhibited the strongest composite of capabilities.

Wang Zheng and the others had discovered that they were being closely monitored by each team's scouts. They had to be very wary of every glance that came their way from every corner. Nearing the top eight battle, everyone would be starting to be serious.

Jiang Feng had initiated a combined meeting again with the main objective being to commend and, at the same time, give out some battle tactics guidance, reminders, and instructions. From now onwards, it would be the actual battle. Upon entering the top eight, aside from the respective powerful teams, they would have practically completed their predicted goals.

In the Prime Minister's official residence, Kashawen was looking through the newly announced top sixteen name list. She was rather satisfied with the outcomes. Aslan's three teams had all advanced, and the only slight thorn was the Saruman Snake battle team.

Kashawen was also conflicted. On one hand, this person's tenacity was unimaginable, reaching to where he was right now from being a commoner who had nothing, implying that he would be a bit hard to dispel. On the other hand, she felt that Anna's insight was passable. She had finally picked someone who was not useless. The other's innocence was also beyond imagination. It was just that up to this point, she also wanted to see how far this little fella called Wang Zheng could actually go. As for that small HU issue, she could not be bothered in the slightest.

If… by any chance, it was as Mitchell had said, that he really could do it, Kashawen would feel sorry for him. He would then experience what genuine desperation was.

Chapter 1152: A Level S Incident

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

Ai Xiaolu officially entered the busy period. With the top sixteen being set, it also signified that future opponents were about to appear. All the major battle teams entered a short period of rest and reorganisation. There would be a lot of information needed, not just for the Saruman Snake battle team, but also for Aishi Financial Group's growth and self-training. Such experiences, especially participating in the process of affecting the outcomes, were something that most people would never be able to experience. And these experiences brought to Ai Xiaolu were very important.

Their time as students was undoubtedly great, but there will come a day where they need to take the step out to face the world. Even if they were looking from Ai Xiaolu's circumstances, she still had a small, indescribable sentiment inside of her, and was not too excited. Luo Er was different. In comparison, Luo Er was filled with fighting spirit for the future. What she had learnt needed to be utilized in society. On the other hand, Ai Xiaolu had already experienced many commercial battles a long time ago. Having seen and experienced it before, there was really no meaning. Everything had originated from ** but there was no way of stopping, as once they stopped, they would be eaten. She had chosen to leave the world of finance, and chosen Elite Academy X for the sake of escaping. It could be obtained, but what should they fight like this for?

When they were young, it was to receive praise, for vanity, but happiness was easily lost. Right now, she had another reason: rekindling her fire.

Luo Er would not be able to help with it. Luo Er had quite a number of people under her involved in every area of politics. It would be troublesome for them to be assigned to extremely principled matters, but it would be slightly convenient and a walk in the park as their collaboration was successful in every endeavor. To put it straight, the collaboration between the two held almost the same weight as Aina.

"Luo Er, how's the situation on your side? Did Kashawen make any moves?"

"Do you take me as all-powerful? That is Aslan's Prime Minister. At present, there are no traces. It feels like she will not be anxious until the finals. Recently, Aslan's public relations have been incredible; it seems that they have very high hopes for the parliament seat," Luo Er stated.

"How confident is your dad?" Ai Xiaolu knew that this matter was very critical to Ryan. The ratio of the parliamentary seat would ultimately affect his future run for the election of parliament speaker.

Although Ryan was balanced, it was clear that the benefits of the small and weak alliances that he represented was not exactly in line with the enormous empires' requirements. Originally, they wanted him to just give an act, but in the end, Ryan had fully displayed his strength. In addition to Gemini Star's innately decent foundation, it had formed a tremendous political power within the Milky Way Alliance. Like the issue with Titatitan Star, it was just the tip of the iceberg. It had been said that it was impossible for Aslan to take action on Ryan. There was competition everywhere, and they would need to prepare for a rainy day.

Destroying Aslan's plans would also be in accordance to Luo Er's needs, it would just be up to whether the Saruman Snake battle team could make it to the top.

"Oh, right, let me tell you about an interesting matter. It is of level S." Luo Er chuckled.

"Oh?" Ai Xiaolu went blank for a second. Information of this level was not easily accessible, at the very least not for the Aishi Financial Group. This was the difference, this was a secret that would be hard to access even with more money.

"The interstellar exploration team that we sent out has been completely wiped out."

Ai Xiaolu wrinkled her eyebrows. How was this level S. "Wait, you mean that fleet?"

"That's right. The most critical part is that a photo was sent back right before the fleet disappeared. They seemed to have discovered something extraordinary. I��m not very sure of the specifics, but you can think of possibilities," Luo Er mentioned.

Ai Xiaolu nodded her head. This matter seemed completely unrelated, but if they could seize it properly, it would be the Milky Way Alliance's market's trump card.

They had to at least mentally prepare, but it was just that their current important mission was to take down SIG.

Wang Zheng and the rest did not idle around either. They had defeated the Dark Knight battle team and also entered recovery training. Wang Zheng had been continuously fusing the Primordial Regression Technique and his own Five Elements together. Since the moment he understood the essence of the Five Elements, it had also caused him to gain a new understanding of martial techniques. From realisation to actual combat effectiveness, there was still a certain amount of change to be made. However, it was already different. For example, a wind wall. If it were purely of the wind element, it would be a dead end, but the wind wall of the Five Elements was not really wind. It was a barrier used specially to counter Ability X. Such progress would be unimaginable to outsiders.

Wang Zheng was controlling. He had to control it and not let himself get overly excited. The closer he got to this stage, the more he had to hold steady. Those show-off actions were made only for outsiders to see. He needed to keep calm inside, and at the same time, adjust his condition. If he exploded too early, it could be dangerous.

At Wang Zheng's current level, he had already confirmed who his opponents were. Of course, the possibility of hidden experts could not be ruled out. Luo Fei was not counted. Luo Fei's abilities had appeared, but regardless of how Lear hid it or whether there were weaknesses, these were not important. Luo Fei was not his opponent. This had nothing to do with his strength, it was his inherent instincts, which Lear was unable to change. At least now, this had yet to be thoroughly changed.

Aslan's Lin Feng, Soulless' Aragorn, Atlantis' Dina Atlas and Maya's Matt Locatelli. These four all held skills not inferior to his, and not to mention their teams' capabilities. Wang Zheng could feel it. If there were no attacks from other factors, Wang Zheng believed that he himself would be victorious. He had high confidence in that at the very least. But this was SG, where there were too many external factors. If he wanted to triumph over them, he would need to become stronger himself, just a bit more!

Wang Zheng's gaze burned brightly in the dark. Confidence was for others to see. He had to have faith that he would be undefeated. However, he himself knew the opponents' strength, especially as there was no clear background information on the few of them. Even if Ai Xiaolu had investigated, only the tip of the iceberg would be found. Owing to the Greatest King Competition, with the addition of being tried by quite a number of people in the qualifiers, no matter how confident Wang Zheng was, he could feel that he could only be victorious through surprises. The only thing that he was confident that could not be deciphered was the Atomic Bomb, but this was a move that could greatly harm his own self almost as much as it could harm his opponents. As for the rest, he had no absolute certainty. But this was in situations where he controlled the flow. Once the opponent grasped control of the rhythm, it would be hard.

In terms of mech, it was an Achilles' heel. The Sword Shield Rose battle team, Atlantis, and Maya's mech skills were honestly stronger than that of the other teams by a bit. Although mecha were not absolutes, when the gap between abilities was not large, the advantages of their functions would be extremely fatal.

Old Merchant had often said that intelligence determined success or failure, but there were times where brute force should be relied on.

On the second day, all the members had received the top sixteen battle roster:

1. Soulless battle team (Arbiter Republic) and Imperial Glory battle team (Elite Academy X)

The unfamiliar old leaders', Arbiter and Aslan's, battle. This would also be the first strong battle. Would Aragorn be able to uphold Arbiter's name, or would the genius Di Maria be able to defend Aslan's glory? From the looks of the current accomplishments and performances, the Soulless battle team seemed to hold a certain advantage.

2. Dynasty battle team (Elite Academy X) and Gravity battle team (Gemini Star)

Lear was undoubtedly being underestimated, but the lot he had chosen was not bad. Although the Gravity battle team had entered the top sixteen, they were not one of the strongest teams. If the opponent could be suppressed by martial techniques, the Dynasty battle team would be sixty percent assured of success.

3. Child of Light battle team (Maya Empire) and Demonic Dragon battle team (Earthworm Federation)

The Mayans' performances had been unbreakable. The members' use of light energy this time had been beyond the imaginable, raising Mayan civilisation to the same level as Atlantis. As for the Demonic Dragon battle team, for the Earthworm Federation to be able to enter top sixteen, their mission had been completed. The probability of the Mayans' victory would be ninety percent.

4. Saruman Snake battle team (Elite Academy X) and Golden Wheel battle team (Manalasuo)

It was unquestionably a tough fight, a challenge again for Wang Zheng. Jondi Lilick's abilities were without a doubt good and both their prestiges were identical. The critical part would be on their performance. Based on grandeur, the Saruman Snake battle team would have a slight lead.

5. Sword Shield Rose Rider battle team (Aslan) and Radiance battle team (Versailles Empire)

Lin Feng's battle team and Aslan's trump card. Although the Radiance battle team was strong, it felt like they would still be unable to stop the Sword Shield Rose Rider battle team's advancement. The Sword Shield Rose Rider battle team had a success rate of ninety percent.

6. Zero Degrees battle team (Hail Cloud Alliance) and Fiery Bear battle team (Great Bear Federation)

This would be a battle with not much difference between abilities. The Zero Degrees battle team had a slight upper hand, but ultimately, it would be depend on the two teams' performances.

7. Sea Queen battle team (Atlantis Empire) and Steel battle team (Arbiter Republic)

The clash between two strong teams. The people of Atlantis and Arbiter would finally meet, Mars colliding with Earth. Regardless of who won, it would be how it ought to be.

8. Harbinger battle team (Heaven's Arrow Federation) and Military Officer School battle team (Aslan Empire)

Aslan's Military Officer School had the upper hand. For the Harbinger battle team, to have entered the top sixteen, they had already completed their task.

Chapter 1153: Guillotine

Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios

The first battle of the quarter-finals was held in Aslan Royal College's largest royal arena. The team leaders and the tactical personnel of the representative teams from all the countries were busier, even if the team members had already returned home. They were responsible for the things behind the scenes. It was also an opportunity for each country to demonstrate their true strength at this stage. The VIP area was filled with military and political officials from various countries. Kashawen was not present. Instead, President Lin Hong was present. Such status was adequately significant.

The four cute girls from Resonance got VIP seating too. They actually longed more to watch from the competitors' seats. But their identities were too sensitive, so could only watch from the VIP seats. This was indeed not as convenient as Ai Xiaolu and Luo Er's seats. But this could not be helped. The Resonance princesses sitting behind one of the Aslan teams would be unfair to other teams. The lively scene did not affect the warriors. Everyone was already mentally prepared at this stage. The honor would be to demonstrate their true strength during the battles.

Soulless battle team versus Imperial Glory battle team.

This was the battle that would allow Di Maria to prove himself. So far, the Soulless battle team was the number one battle team for Arbiter. It bore the hope of Arbiter. So long as he could eliminate the Soulless battle team, he would be famous throughout Aslan, leaving a deep impression on the Princess. Di Maria had never lacked ambition, just luck.

In the battle of the heralds, the Imperial Glory battle team sent out Heracles. Sending an Atlantian herald in the first battle was a typical strategy. It was a strategy to assess the depth of the battle team.

Although representing the Imperial Glory battle team, Heracles would not possibly cheat. As a warrior, he had to demonstrate his strength, even when battling Atlanteans; otherwise, it would mean losing the honour of Atlantis.

Heracles – Phantom King.

Aragorn definitely could not represent Warrior Soul College. There were only two reasons for a captain to take on the herald battle. Either he was too weak and wanted to take a gamble, or he wanted very much to capture the opponents' captain.

The Soulless battle team sent on D. Noel. Wasn't… this a tank?

Aragorn was expressionless. His choice was casual… It did not matter who would be sent on for the match.

D. Noel was expressionless, despite facing the "legendary" Atlantean. He chose Arbiter's human-type mech – Guillotine.

Reserve versus the Phantom King.

Was this a tactic?

Clamours of comments arose among the crowds. In contrast to the agile Phantom King, the Guillotine appeared rather cumbersome. This mech seemed to conform to Arbiter's style. Although it was the tank, its attacking ability was very intrepid. The weapon of choice was the overbearing double-hook hatchet. It was particularly prominent when matched against another tank. However, the flaw was also very noticeable, which was the lack of flexibility. While it had a natural advantage against other tanks, the disadvantage was very visible against other mecha. It was a mech that needed the coordination of a team.

Heracles did not care who was the opponent, nor the choice of the mech. He just needed to win this match.

Off the field, His Highness Aragorn, was watching. He needed to be the best version of himself, regardless of which team he was in.

The two mecha entered the arena, with two very distinctive styles. The Arbiters were rather reckless. Heracles had already proven his ability during the clash of the titans that he was a worthy contender of Wang Zheng, unless Aragorn was prepared to hand over this match. However, this was uncharacteristic of the Arbiters.

The Mayans had lifted their sanctions, so had the Atlanteans. They were allowed to freely release their spiritual power to communicate with the universe and unleash the mysteries of the runes. The power of the runes was stronger than the G-particles of the humans.

The Phantom King showed no hesitation, unwaveringly attacking Noel. The Guillotine showed no sign of evasion, an indication of self-awareness. When confronting the Phantom King's attack, any wrong move would result in a faster death. The key to winning was the tank's defence and the results of the counterattacks. Of course, it was too difficult to capture the Phantom King.

Growl.

The Phantom King split in two… The two mecha charged towards the Guillotine simultaneously. Bang, bang, bang…

The Rune Sword and the double-hook hatchet interlocked continuously. Noel was unwavering, and despite Heracles' exploratory attacks, he only defended.

The Phantom King clearly took the offensive, using sufficient speed and agility to completely suppress the tank. The Guillotine was battered beyond defence and could not retaliate. Not only was the Phantom King quick, the tank's defence was also passable. Although he wanted to attack, he was always a step behind. Moreover, the Phantom King's energy swap was virtually impossible to defend against.

Despite continuously using spiritual blasts during their several encounters, Hercules did not achieve the desired effect he had hoped for. Noel's mental defense was very resilient, and skillful, so the spiritual blasts had little effect. The Phantom Kings pulled their distance apart with two consecutive displacements.

To be capable of resisting his spiritual blasts, even if the opponent was not Earth-rank, he would have to have received considerable training in mental endurance, much like a robot.

Noel was expressionless in his cockpit. So were the members of the Soulless battle team. It was not unusual for the Atlanteans, as well as some people with powerful Ability Xs, to be skillful at mental assaults.

The runes of the Phantom King lit up. Immediately, the mech lifted into the air. The Rune Sword started burning with flames, showing the intense energy response. This was how Atlanteans harmonized with the universe. Their communication had no attributes. It was unknown why the Atlanteans could not comprehend the five elements. However, it did not mean that this energy was weak; they communicated with the original force.

The battle of the titans had already emerged. Any attack would basically be thwarted when confronted with this rune technique. The power of the runes displayed by the strength of Heracles could only be stopped by an Earth-rank warrior. It took Wang Zheng and his mech – the Annihilator – a great deal of effort to stop Heracles. Furthermore, it was because the Annihilator had better displacement, as well as the superiority of Wang Zheng's Ability X.

Rumble.

The Phantom King attacked. The sword, burning with black, rune energy, had become very lethal. Separation!

Attacking simultaneously, the Phantom X's Cross locked up.

When Wang Zheng used the Annihilator to evade, it was a complicated maneuver technique, and this technique could not be performed by a tank. Even if it could, that speed was a completely different concept. What the hell were the Arbiters thinking?

If he had wanted to surrender, he should not have pretended to be self-righteous. Heracles was indeed the best in Atlantis. With the terrifying power of the Rune Energy Shield, he did not care about the opponent's attack, which was what was truly terrifying. This had also been verified during the battles of the titans.

The avatar and the physical body attacked at the same time. The Guillotine made only one accurate choice… open the energy shield.

The tank's energy shield could withstand the attack. But… bring it on!