The Giant’s Retrofit

Xiao Feng resolved to forge an exclusive combat system for the mighty Giant—customized weaponry, a dedicated auxiliary system, bespoke mech armor, and a tailor-made warplane—transforming the Giant into an indomitable fortress of war.

The Giant's physical prowess and immense strength allowed him to bear heavier, more formidable armor, thereby enabling the carriage of an arsenal far greater than most.

His personal aircraft was a modified iteration of Pandora's original dagger-shaped flyer. The retrofit encompassed an upgraded power supply system, replacing conventional fuel with arcane crystal energy.

The overhaul of the Giant's weapons system was entrusted to Victoria Corporation. Initially hesitant, Jason relented after a candid discussion with Xiao Feng, conceding to the creation of the armament system for the Giant.

Xiao Feng's stance was unwavering—not negotiating but commanding Victoria Corporation to execute the task.

Jason, a man of reason, offered no further objection. The balance of dependence had shifted; though reluctant, he had little choice.

Nearly a month was devoted to the meticulous retrofit and testing of the Giant's weaponry.

The Giant emerged equipped with a brand-new mech suit—twin machine guns mounted on his arms and shoulders, a pair of compact missile launchers on his back akin to Tugu's micro-missiles, armed with fifty miniature rockets. Moreover, Sam Corporation forged for the Giant a heavy machine gun that fired artillery shells as ammunition—an instrument of destruction suited only for beings of terrifying strength. Only Xiao Feng, Tugu, and Pandora wielded such power; even Old White lacked the strength to manage it.

Meanwhile, Pandora's black dagger aircraft also underwent enhancements, gaining a magical energy cannon. Though this cannon demanded high-grade arcane crystal power, such energy was no longer a challenge for Xiao Feng.

Once complete, the Giant donned his mech armor and stood beside Tugu, evidently surpassing him in might. He possessed a superior auxiliary system, greater strength, and more potent weaponry. The sole disadvantage was his humanity—while Tugu, a relentless automaton, operated tirelessly with an endless power supply, the Giant, despite his strength, required rest. Like Xiao Feng himself, even the mightiest must succumb to fatigue.

During this period, Xiao Feng retrieved Qin Tian back to the New City, having learned that Qin Tian's grandfather had passed away due to old age. Unburdened, Qin Tian sought refuge with Xiao Feng, accompanied by Ghost Demon.

Though Xiao Feng admired Ghost Demon's abilities, his past as a member of the Alliance Army's temple and the dreaded Seven Killers unit warranted caution. Consequently, Ghost Demon was assigned within the X Legion rather than kept close. Though begrudging, Ghost Demon understood the reasoning and settled quietly in the ranks.

Xiao Feng also conferred with Rush and Pandora, analyzing the current situation. The widening rift between X Legion and Victoria and Sam Corporations was largely due to Xiao Feng's own actions. Yet, he conveyed that this estrangement might prove beneficial; X Legion's eventual independence from the two corporations was inevitable. He sought to understand their intentions moving forward.

Rush, formerly Jason's bodyguard, initially leaned toward Victoria's side. However, having spent considerable time with Xiao Feng, he grew to understand and ultimately chose to side with him. A man of wisdom, Rush recognized that Victoria Corporation would sooner or later fall under X Legion's control, making allegiance to Xiao Feng the most prudent course.

Pandora, with a faint smile, remarked, "I am a machine. In critical moments, I may no longer be under my own control. Severing ties with Victoria Corporation would require replacing my auxiliary system's control program with one beyond their reach."

Xiao Feng, contemplating this, replied, "This is not insurmountable. Not only you, but Tugu's auxiliary systems will be altered. As long as you both follow me, no obstacle is too great."

"Good, that reassures me," Pandora responded.

Determined to resolve the issue, Xiao Feng concluded the solution lay in locating the engineers who designed them and compelling them to replace the systems or change the command codes. It was a straightforward task.

Armed with this resolve, Xiao Feng and Qin Tian set out to execute the plan.

From Pandora, they learned the engineer's residence. Dressed impeccably in tailored suits, the two drove there directly.

Since Qin Tian's arrival in the New City, Xiao Feng had kept him close—more akin to brothers than comrades.

Parking near a shopping mall adjacent to the engineer's complex, they proceeded on foot.

The operation demanded utmost secrecy; Xiao Feng was determined to keep it from widespread knowledge.

Under the cloak of night, they scaled the perimeter wall silently. Xiao Feng observed the elegant architecture before identifying the villa belonging to the engineer and approached.

Like shadows, they infiltrated the villa.

Such a residence felt as familiar to Xiao Feng as his own home. He leapt directly to the second floor and slipped inside. The summer air left the bedroom windows open, allowing easy entry.

Qin Tian's approach was even more effortless. Utilizing invisibility, he passed through walls as if strolling into the villa.

At that moment, the villa's occupant dined downstairs. Xiao Feng and Qin Tian met by the staircase; Xiao Feng adjusted his suit and proceeded deliberately into the dining room.

Candlelight flickered upon the table, illuminating two young lovers engrossed in their romantic dinner. The sight arrested Xiao Feng in stunned silence.