Chapter 1: Rebirth
by Unattributed
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Chapter 1: Rebirth
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
“Test subject number 24. The subject lasted for two minutes and forty-five seconds after the administration of Valkyrie. Time of death: 4.22 a.m.”
I should be the only one at home. Who's talking?
Han Xiao opened his eyes, only to be blinded by light. The familiar hatch of his VR-capsule was no longer there—instead, he was facing a white ceiling. The walls that surrounded him were also white and reminiscent of cold, hard metal. They felt like something straight out of science fiction. The room resembled an intensive care unit, and Han Xiao lay atop a cold metal table, bare-chested and wired to all sorts of machines. His back was freezing.
Han Xiao noticed that there was a group of people in white coats surrounding him, and they were looking at him as though they had just seen a ghost.
I thought I just accepted a leveling request? Where am I?
Suddenly, Han Xiao felt as though a large amount of data was being transmitted into his mind, causing his head to throb painfully. The last thing he could remember was accepting a leveling assignment. He was in the midst of creating a new character in 'Galaxy' when he seemingly started to smell burnt eggs...
“Quickly, let Ms. Hila know! The test subject has come back to life!”
“Call the guards!”
As the researchers started a commotion, Han Xiao realized that he could understand them, even though they were speaking in a language he had never heard before. 'Test subject', 'back to life', and 'guards'—these terms unnerved him. Soon, he could hear the sound of rushing footsteps coming from outside.
Should I make a run for it or just lie still? Han Xiao decided on the former in a split second; he was not the kind of person to just lie around waiting. He abruptly sprang up, ripping the wires off him, and made a clumsy beeline for the door. The researchers did not attempt to stop him, instead, they backed off hastily to avoid being knocked into.
Crash!
He pushed his way out into a white corridor, only to be greeted by a dozen or so guards suited in black and armed with electric batons advancing upon him from both sides.
Han Xiao gasped at the sight of the crest on their uniforms. It depicted half a plant.
The Germinal Organization from Planet Aquamarine back in version one? Weren't they eliminated‽
Suddenly, a guard swung his electric baton at Han Xiao and Han Xiao unconsciously raised a hand to block it. The ensuing current caused his whole body to spasm in pain. It felt like his bones were about to split and his entire body turned numb.
Is the pain calibration at 100%‽
Galaxy's pain calibration was restricted to a maximum of 40% because any higher setting could potentially cause nerve damage to players. The VR-capsule was also supposed to monitor the player's vitals to prevent this, but it was currently malfunctioning.
It's only been seven years and the capsule is having problems? Damn it! The repairman I paid $300 to a few days ago told me that it would still be good for another six months! I want a refund!
The guards yanked him up and took him to a small room where they locked him up alone in pitch black darkness.
Han Xiao grimaced in pain as he massaged his wrist. His head continued to throb as more information poured in.
It took Han Xiao a moment to reconcile the facts and make sense of what had happened to him.
I've... transmigrated into Galaxy?
His eyes widened with amazement.
Galaxy was a fully immersive virtual reality game that ran servers worldwide and boasted a peak concurrent player count of almost 60 million.
The game was set in a vast universe with a world map and landscapes that were procedurally generated using the latest generation of quantum computers. The scale of its world was massive, and it was said to be able to run smoothly even with a billion concurrent players. There existed many organizations and companies that specialized in farming gold and running dungeons, and the best pieces of gear could even go for ridiculous prices of up to a million U.S dollars.
Being an extremely popular game, good balance was of the utmost important. While big spenders did have certain advantages, it was not so unfair to the extent that it displeased the casual players. Maintaining competitiveness and improving skills were key factors towards game balance, and Galaxy did a good job in these areas, facilitating its strong allure as an e-sport.
Although Han Xiao did indeed make a living out of playing the game, the term 'professional gamer' didn't fit him well. He was, instead, one of the despised power levelers and preferred to work solo.
Han Xiao had been playing the game since its very inception, and through the numerous patches, he had made a name for himself. In the last annual top 100 rankings, he placed 47th. He definitely had what it took to try his hand at going pro, but what he enjoyed most about the game was the leveling experience.
“The Germinal Organization originates from one of the beginner planets new characters were sent to back in Version 1 of Galaxy: Planet Aquamarine,” mumbled Han Xiao.
Before transmigrating, Galaxy had already been operating for over a decade. Version 1.0 was ancient history.
“Have I time traveled too?” Han Xiao's expression darkened.
“Does that mean I won't be getting my three hundred dollars back‽
“Am I stupid‽ That's the least of my concerns!” Han Xiao slapped himself.
His memories were still jumbled up, and he could not recall anything about his original life—not even his name. All that he could recall were details regarding this world, such as its present era. He was currently in the year 687 of the Galaxy calendar, a year behind the updated timeline.
In Version 1, there were three universal powers that were upholding a peace that had lasted for ten thousand years, since the era of exploration. They were the Commonwealth of Light, the Crimson Dynasty, and the Arcane Church. The Silver Revolutionary Army had yet to be formed, the one responsible for the Supernatural Disaster was still fighting for dear life on some desolate planet, the World of Light had not come into existence, the civilization of the World Tree had not yet invaded from the beyond, and the Shattered Belt that contained Planet Aquamarine was still budding inconspicuously along the fringes of the explored universe.
In order to ensure that the game remained attractive, Galaxy borrowed and implemented ideas from its predecessors, such as 'WoW', where each version update revolved around a disaster or some major event. While Han Xiao enjoyed the game, now that he had transmigrated over...
“Get me out!”
While the Germinal Organization was small fry compared to the interstellar powers introduced in later updates, to the currently powerless Han Xiao, it was an entirely different story.
“Planet Aquamarine was modeled after Earth, and the Germinal Organization's aim is to overthrow this planet's government. If I'm not wrong, Valkyrie test subjects are brainwashed to serve as cannon fodder.”
The body he currently possessed had experienced a memory wipe. Apart from some general knowledge, all that remained were fragmented memories of captivity and experimentation.
It seemed to be roughly twenty years old and bore a slight semblance to his original self. However, its state of health was as yet uncertain. He had heard the researchers mention that he had been injected with Valkyrie, one of the Germinal's gene altering drugs that was used to strengthen the brain. Valkyrie had a survival rate of only 30%, but this body had reacted positively to it.
Suddenly, a glowing line of blue text blue appeared before his eyes.
___________________ _
You have been injected with Valkyrie!
+1 Endurance
You have learnt a new ability: Concentration
You have learnt a new ability: Low Level Willpower
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“Virtual interface!” Han Xiao jumped for joy.
___________________ _
Name: Han Xiao
Race: Human/Carbon-based (Yellow)
Model: N.P.C (Countdown to Version 1.0 launch: 358 days 11 hours 03 minutes)
Level: 1
Experience: 0
Main Class: N.A.
Sub-class: Civilian Lv. 1 (0/50)
Attributes: Strength 2, Dexterity 2, Endurance 3, Intelligence 3, Mystery 1, Charm 2, Luck 1
Unassigned Stats: 0
Energy: 0 (Lv. 0)
Energy Rank: 1~2
Grade: F (Mortal)
[Piece of trash with a combat strength of 5; pick any N.P.C out from the streets and he will wipe the floor with you a hundred times! A hundred times!]
Health points: 23/30 (injured)
Stamina: 36/36
Abilities:
– Concentration: +10% to learning and crafting speeds
– Low Level Willpower: +3 Resistance
Skills: None
Talent points: 0
Class Talents: None
Influence: 0
Reputation: 0
Equipment: None
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“Thank god I still have the interface!”
Han Xiao was ecstatic but quickly discovered that there were several irregularities.
N.P.C, not a player? Countdown timer?
Han Xiao furrowed his brows as he organized his thoughts.
First of all, although he had no idea how the interface had transmigrated together with him, he had to treat this world as his new reality, meaning that if he died, he could not bank on being able to respawn like in a game.
Secondly, he could still access the system's interface despite being classified as an N.P.C. This suggested that he could still level up like a player, which was good news.
Thirdly, if the countdown timer confirmed his suspicions that he had indeed traveled back in time to before the game's launch, did it mean that 'real' players would soon appear?
Lastly, and most important of all, he was currently in grave danger!
Han Xiao felt indignant. Didn't people who transmigrated normally receive perks such as resources, companions, or... at least an ex-girlfriend? At the very least, he should have started out in a safe location! The war hadn't even begun, and he was already a lone hero deep behind enemy lines. A single slip could prove fatal; he could very well end up in the Hall of Heroes... if such a place existed.
Han Xiao only had one life here. If he died then that would be the end of it. It would be a pity.
Yes, Han Xiao only felt that it would be 'a pity'. 'I want to survive!' would be a more normal line of thought. As for variations such as 'My fate is not for the heavens to decide; if the heavens want to erase me, then I will erase the heavens!' or 'Swallow an aurous core to transcend life and death', such ramblings were exclusive to people with second-grade syndrome.
“What the hell, why am I the only one S.A.O-ed?” Han Xiao lamented.
And while his senses confirmed that this was indeed reality, he started to wonder...
What exactly am I now? Am I an actual life-form, or am I just a bunch of data? Did my soul transmigrate, or is it something else entirely?
He sighed. I guess I'll just have to make the best out of the situation and take it one step at a time.
The essential thing was to survive.
With a year to go before launch, he had enough time to get prepared; this was the sole glimmer of promise that he could cling on to.
Clank!
Suddenly, the door opened, and several people walked in. As he could only make out their silhouettes due to the light streaming in from outside, Han Xiao could not see their faces clearly. However, he could make out from their outlines that one of them was a woman with a fiery figure.
“The subject's condition?”
Said woman spoke to her subordinate in a voice that was smooth, yet intertwined with an ever-so-faint rasp, reminiscent of a cup of rich coffee.
“It appears that the test subject has calmed down.”
The experiment leader, Lin Wei Xian, answered the woman as he stared at Han Xiao passionately, as though he were looking at a prized possession.
“Who are you people?” Han Xiao asked hoarsely.
“Hmm? Amnesia...?” The woman's eye twitched.
“Valkyrie stimulates the brain, so memory loss is not unexpected,” replied Lin Wei Xian, squinting.
When Han Xiao's eyes had finally adjusted to the light, he was stunned by the sight of the woman.
Boasting a headful of luscious, burgundy hair that concealed part of her face, the woman wore a tight-fitting, jet black bodysuit from which her curvaceous figure threatened to burst out at any time.
Her features were telling of her Western descent, but they were also composed of a certain softness that was characteristic of Eastern women; perhaps it was her mixed heritage that blessed her with such beauty and charm. In a different world, she could have been easily mistaken for a beautiful snake demoness.
If Da Ji had possessed such beauty, then King Zhou did not die in vain! 1 thought Han Xiao.
“I am Hila, the commander here,” said the red haired woman as she looked at Han Xiao. She waved a hand and ordered, “Conduct a blood test. I want to see the report asap.”
Two stone-faced guards walked forward to yank him away. Their massive bodies and the fact that they were carrying guns dispelled any notion that Han Xiao had of resisting.
He recognized the 'Crimson Snake', Hila, and that this was one of the playable scenarios on Planet Aquamarine, Valkyrie Experiment Lab, located in a key base of Germinal.
During Version 1, Hila was a boss who had caused beginners on Aquamarine much grief. She had many nicknames, one of which was the 'Goddess of Death'. She would eventually attain 'Celestial' class strength and rise to prominence in the Cotton Cluster.
Han Xiao laughed bitterly on the inside. The situation was bleak!
Chapter 2: Mechanic
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
The blood test results were compiled quickly.
Hila went over the data she had received from Lin Wei Xian with knitted brows.
“No abnormalities detected?”
“Valkyrie mainly affects the brain. We will need to open the head up for assessment.”
Open the head up? snapped Han Xiao inwardly. Open the head up‽
Hila waved a hand in dismissal of the idea.
“He is the only subject to have ever survived the experiment. We'll leave that option out for now.”
Han Xiao's eyes lit up as he realized that his current status was somewhat advantageous for him.
Lin Wei Xian was not pleased by Hila's decision, but he made no fuss about it.
“In that case, we'll observe him for the time being to see if anything has changed.”
“Proceed with the brainwashing,” ordered Hila suddenly.
Brainwashing?
Han Xiao's heart sank. Brainwashing was a common method of subordination, and while in the game, a brainwashed character would simply become an ally of the faction, it was completely different now! Losing his sense of self was the worst-case scenario.
No way!
The good news was that memory altering technology available on the planet was still under-developed, so the organization's methods were very primitive; they made use of sensory stimuli to re-calibrate the subject. A character with at least ten points in Intelligence would be immune to the effects of the brainwash.
Valkyrie had given Han Xiao a +1 boost to the growth potential of his Endurance. Growth potential was an innate stat that affected the growth rate of the affected stat. Different races had differing starting potentials in each stat, and in the entire world of Galaxy, humans generally had a mediocre growth rate. They did, however, boast the highest Intelligence potential. As they also possessed the lowest Health, this single point in Endurance growth potential was nice to have.
[Concentration] gave him a 10% increase in mastery and crafting speeds, also increasing their success rates.
[Low Level Willpower] gave him three points of Willpower, which substituted for three points of Intelligence, so he still lacked three more Intelligence to survive the brainwash.
Leveling the Civilian class will boost a random stat by one, and also give me one unassigned stat point... but the chance for Intelligence to be boosted is extremely low...
Han Xiao knew that he could not rely on luck. In fact, he had always suspected that he was cursed. If a god or goddess did smile upon him, it would have to be the goddess of disaster. Rather than rely on luck, finding some way to learn a new class was a more reliable idea.
Although Han Xiao was incapable of moving freely, there had to be a way! After all, it was a scenario, wasn't it?
Suddenly, he thought of something.
If I'm an N.P.C... I should be protected by the system... right?
“Take him,” ordered Hila.
Han Xiao was yanked away once again and brought to another room.
Han Xiao noticed that there was a bookshelf in this room.
<<Tom's Introduction to Machinery>>
<>
<<Randt's Hypothesis>>
...
They were all reference books.
Hold on, there's a class book there! rejoiced Han Xiao.
Han Xiao disregarded the two guards behind him as he stood up to walk towards the shelf.
His actions startled everyone, and instantly, the two guards were pointing guns at him.
However, Han Xiao steeled his nerves and continued to approach the bookshelf.
You'd better not fire! he prayed. I'm a valuable test subject!
“Hold your fire! Let's see what he's up to,” shouted Lin Wei Xian all of a sudden.
The two guards hesitantly lowered their guns.
Han Xiao heaved a sigh of relief. He had been banking everything on his status as the first successful subject.
<<Tom's Introduction to Machinery>>
This was the book that had caught Han Xiao's eye. He picked it out from the shelf and started flipping through.
Although the long paragraphs of texts and complex diagrams were hard for Han Xiao to comprehend, he patiently read on. After twenty seconds or so, the interface lit up.
___________________ _
You have completed one session of self-learning in basic machinery knowledge!
[Basic Assembly] has progressed by 2.0% (based on your Intelligence).
(+0.2% from Concentration)
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As I expected! Han Xiao rejoiced. Although he wasn't able to understand the book's contents on his own, the system's automated mastery system had allowed him to directly absorb the knowledge.
Lin Wei Xian curiosity was piqued. The test subject seemed to be learning!
He allowed Han Xiao to continue in order to observe him more.
The entire room was now silent, except for the rustling of paper.
___________________ _
[Basic Assembly]
Progress Rate:
15% (+1.5%)
...
29% (+2.9%)
...
48% (+4.8%)
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Han Xiao's reading speed increased with time. However, the pressure mounted on. Every second that passed could be his last.
When Hila arrived at the room, the sight of Han Xiao reading caused her to frown.
“What's going on?”
Lin Wei Xian began to explain what had happened.
“You're saying that his learning ability has been strengthened?”
“That is my initial conclusion. If you allow me to open his head up to perform a thorough assessment, I will be able to come up with a more complete answer.”
Han Xiao flinched. How much does this bastard love brains‽
Hila thought to herself, If his brain has been enhanced, he could prove to be more valuable than we initially thought...
“Is the brainwashing apparatus ready?” she asked.
“Preparations are complete.”
Damn it! I have to be faster! thought Han Xiao.
Suddenly, a notification accompanied with a sound popped up on the interface.
___________________ _
[Basic Assembly]
Progress rate: 90% (+10%)
You have learned basic knowledge of Machinery, unlocking the Mechanic talent tree!
You have unlocked a new profession:
[Mechanic (Novice)]
S.T.R +10, I.N.T +1, End +1
You have gained 2 stat points.
You have gained 1 talent point.
You have acquired new skills:
[Mechanic (Novice)]
[Basic Maintenance]
[Basic Enhancement]
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As warmth surged through Han Xiao's body, he realized to his surprise that he could actually comprehend the contents of the book now!
I can gain actual knowledge from the game‽ Are you kidding me? Galaxy has been in service for over a decade! How come the Federation of Earth hasn't conquered the Milky Way yet‽
Strange...
The 'Character Information Interface' had updated as well:
___________________ _
Name: Han Xiao
Race: Human/Carbon-based (Yellow)
Model: N.P.C (countdown to Version 1.0 launch: 358 days 10 hours 11 minutes)
Level: 2
Experience: 0
Main Class: Engineer (Novice) – Lv. 1 (0/200)
Sub-class: Civilian – Lv. 1 (0/50)
Health: 43/50 (injured)
Stamina: 80/80
Attributes: 3 S.T.R, 3 D.E.X, 5 End, 4 I.N.T, 1 M.Y.S , 2 C.H.A, 1 L.U.K
Unassigned Stats: 2
Energy: 10/10 [Lv. 1]
Lv. 1 (10) – [S.T.R +1, D.E.X + 1, End + 1, Max Stamina + 20]
Energy Rank: 3~4
Grade: F (Mortal)
[You still lack the combat strength to take on 5 lowly thugs.]
Abilities:
– Concentration: +10% to mastery and crafting speeds
– Lesser Willpower: +3 to focus
Skills:
[Mechanic (Novice)]
Lv 1 (0/1000) – Increases mastery of engineering
[Basic Maintenance]
Lv 1 (0/400) – Able to perform simple maintenance
[Basic Enhancing]
Lv 1 (0/600) – Able to enhance machinery
Potential: 1
Class Talents:
– Arms: Basic Assembly Lv 1 [19 talents not learnt]
– Energy: [20 talents not learnt]
– Control: [20 talents not learnt]
Influence: 0
Legend: 0
Equipment: None
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Regarding stats, Strength improved melee damage and was also a requirement for some heavy equipment.
Dexterity improved movement speed, attack speed, and evasion. It also gave a bonus to ranged attacks.
Endurance increased Health and Energy. 1 Endurance gave 10 H.P and 10 Energy. Endurance also affected some abilities and skills and increased H.P and Energy recovery rates.
All actions depleted Energy, be it attacking, blocking, walking, running, swimming, crafting, etcetera
Endurance also affected physical defense. There were many formulas contributing to the calculation of defense. For example, even if two characters' defense stats were equal, one of them might not be wearing metal armor, so they would take more damage from a bullet than the other character.
Other factors that affected damage taken included Energy, range, bullet type, racial characteristics, and equipment material. All of these factors were taken into consideration when calculated by the quantum computer that the servers were run on. It was impossible for players to accurately optimize defense, but this wasn't that big of a deal, as having more defense could only be a good thing.
Intelligence affected growth rates and Willpower. A character with higher Intelligence could master their skills faster. It also increased mastery and crafting speeds, and it could affect the quality of any machinery crafted by a Mechanic, making it the most important stat for the class.
Mystery affected a character's talent for supernatural powers, and it affected psychic powers and magic abilities, like how Strength or Dexterity affected physical abilities.
Charm was useful when improving relationships with different N.P.C's and Factions. It even enabled characters to enjoy discounts with certain sellers.
Luck affected judgement and item drop rates.
These were the seven main attributes that stat points could be added to.
Then, there was also Energy, a core component of the game that functions as 'Mana' for superpowers. It could only be increased through leveling or by acquiring certain skills, and it was described as 'a manifestation of the dormant power that lies in living cells'. Energy was a requirement to unlocking superpowers, as well as latent awakening.
A character would also receive bonus stats based on their Energy level. Lv. 1 Energy was reached at 10 points, Lv. 2 at 50 points, and Lv. 3 at 100 points. Each Energy level would give random stats according to the character's class, and a character with a higher level class would benefit more from this. This bonus worked retroactively.
Energy was also the mana for superpowers, and the additional stats received from Energy were lost when the amount of Energy remaining dropped below its tier.
For example, Lv. 1 stat bonuses would be lost when Energy dropped below 10 points; the character would become fatigued after exhausting power, and this affected their combat ability. This mechanic made micromanagement in combat important.
Energy recovered automatically but at a slow rate. However, Stamina could be used to recover Energy faster. Also, when using Superpowers without sufficient Energy, Stamina could be used as a substitute, and when there was both insufficient Energy and Stamina, Health could be used. Many players ended up dying carelessly by sucking themselves dry this way.
A character's grade reflected their combat strength. Characters were ranked according to their grade. The standard unit of measurement for Energy was the Ona.
Superhumans were graded A, B, C, D, or E, based on their Ona levels.
An E-grade superhuman, such as the present-day Hila, possessed 100 Ouna.
A Celestial-class superhuman would fall under grade A. Grade A superhumans were capable of planetary-scale destruction.
Of course, grade A wasn't the limit. Han Xiao knew this, having transcended grade A himself. However, then was then and now is now.
Having gained two unassigned stat points from unlocking the Mechanic class, Han Xiao still needed one more Intelligence in order to endure the brainwash.
Apart from leveling up, there did not seem to be a way for him to obtain it. How was he supposed to gain experience? He obviously couldn't hunt monsters now or complete quests!
Damn it, is there no way?
Suddenly, an idea occurred to Han Xiao.
He abruptly tossed the book to a side and proceeded to stare at the gun on the guard's waist with a blank expression.
Hila frowned but did not act. Everyone looked on to see what Han Xiao was up to.
Han Xiao walked rigidly towards the guard. As if to make his intentions extremely clear, he reached out exaggeratedly for the gun.
The guard instinctively drew his gun, and although Han Xiao did not seem to have any intention of snatching it, he tightened his grip.
As Han Xiao was moving extremely slowly, the guard did not see a need to fire.
“Unload the gun and let him have it,” ordered Hila.
She was keen to know Han Xiao's motives.
The guard obliged and proceeded to do so.
Upon receiving the gun, some information popped up on Han Xiao's interface.
___________________ _
73-W.A.S.P (Small Caliber Handgun)
Grade: Grey
Damage: 28 -35
Fire Rate: 1.1/s
Power Output: 13
Key components: Spring, Slide, Firing pin, Magazine (missing)
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[Basic Assembly] automatically gave Han Xiao knowledge about many types of machines, and the blueprints for a 73-W.A.S.P appeared in his mind.
Instantly, Han Xiao understood how to assemble it. While in the game he simply needed to 'load' the gun after 'learning' it, he now had to perform some more technical procedures.
Everything was truly far more immersive than it had been in the game, confirming his suspicion that he had transmigrated to an actual 'reality'.
Han Xiao began to strip the handgun and reassemble it.
The skill icon for [Basic Assembly] lit up.
After 40 seconds, he finished the task.
To a specialist, 40 seconds was nothing. However, Han Xiao was a complete newbie!
He had only spent 10 minutes on a book!
Everyone was shocked.
Is this the effect of Valkyrie‽
Lin Wei Xian started speaking excitedly. “Such learning prowess! If I can analyze his brain, perhaps I can recreate...”
Go to hell! How much, exactly, are you obsessed with brains?
Han Xiao proceeded to repeat reassembling the handgun.
___________________ _
You have succeeded at an Assembly (Basic)
69% perfection rate, 28 exp gained
You have succeeded at an Assembly (Basic)
73% perfection rate, 32 exp gained
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There were many ways to gain experience in Galaxy. Apart from hunting monsters and completing quests, skills and crafting were two key sources of experience for Mechanics.
As Han Xiao repeated the task again and again, he gradually became faster and faster. He was soon able to complete the task in a mere 20 seconds.
“Proceed with brainwashing now,' ordered Hila suddenly.
Fortunately for Han Xiao, it had been enough. He had accumulated a total of 200 experience points.
Use all experience to level up Class: [Mechanic]!
Ding!
___________________ _
[Mechanic (Novice)] has leveled up.
Lv. 1 -> Lv. 2
Energy +10
Intelligence +1, Endurance +1
You have gained 2 stat points
You have gained 1 talent point
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Han Xiao breethd a sigh of relief.
That was close.
Chapter 3: Life Is All About Acting
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
Han Xiao was strapped to a metal seat with his eyes forcefully pried open by extensions. Before him was a black screen with speakers on either side.
He was unable to move at all.
“How long is the procedure?”
“Twelve hours.”
“Keep watch here,” ordered Hila before she left with some grunts.
Lin Wei Xian activated the procedure, and the screen lit up. It began to display all kinds of geometric shapes and patterns that morphed continuously. The vivid, rapidly changing colors and harshly alternating music caused Han Xiao much discomfort. While he wanted to close his eyes badly, he was unable to, and soon, his eyeballs turned bloodshot and swollen.
Ah! This is so uncomfortable!
It was a primitive method of brainwashing. The theory behind it was to overwhelm and distort the subject's thoughts to make it easier to feed messages into their mind.
It did, however, have the advantage of not causing permanent damage to the brain, which both Han Xiao and Lin Wei Xian could appreciate.
The depraved expression on Lin Wei Xian's face enraged Han Xiao. He felt like he was a pig at the slaughterhouse.
Han Xiao added two of his four unassigned points into Intelligence.
___________________ _
You are being Brainwashed (Low Level)
Your I.N.T: 7
Your Resistance: 3
Brainwash Failed
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Han Xiao's discomfort immediately eased.
...
At the end of the twelve hours, Han Xiao's entire body was aching, and his eyes were completely dried out.
Hila returned on schedule. The boss had assigned her the task of brainwashing Han Xiao, so she had to ensure that everything went smoothly.
She undid Han Xiao's shackles, revealing bruises on his limbs. Although Han Xiao was still hurting, he continued to look at the screen blankly in order to act the part.
Hila suddenly bent forward, and her face came to within two inches of his. Her moist breath fell upon his lips, but Han Xiao was far too concerned with his predicament to be distracted.
Perfume filled up his nostrils, tickling him, and it took great effort on his part to resist the urge to sneeze.
“Who are you?” asked Hila in a soft, hypnotic voice.
Han Xiao decided to twitch his face instead of replying.
Although Han Xiao had never been a good actor, it wasn't too hard to act like an idiot.
Suddenly, Hila began to whisper into his ear. As her hair tickled Han Xiao's throat, two snowy mountains came into his view through the window of her collar. He steeled his heart with a prayer.
Between the mountains is a valley, empty like the void.
Atop the seas stands an island, straight as a tree.
I, who have seen over a hundred gourds, will not fall for your bait!
“From today onward, your name is Zero. The Germinal Organization is your home, your country, and your everything. You will forever be loyal to the organization and will forever strive to help the organization achieve its goals. You will neither hide anything from nor betray the organization. You will carry out your orders faithfully, and you will sacrifice yourself for the greater good when the time comes!”
Lin Wei Xian broke out in manic laughter.
“Your life belongs to the organization. You will do whatever you are ordered to do,” he added.
“Who are you?” re-questioned Hila.
This time, Han Xiao knew that he had to reply. However, he did not reply immediately.
Hila shot a frown towards Lin Wei Xian.
“I followed the procedure! It's not my fault—”
Suddenly, Han Xiao began to speak.
“I... am... Zero...”
Lin Wei Xian's eyes lit up.
“Valkyrie strengthened Zero's learning ability. However, as a side effect, it impaired his speech.”
Hila thought back to Zero's earlier behavior. He had indeed responded slowly to his surroundings.
“Seems like the experiment was not perfect after all.”
“You're wrong. This is perfection! He does not need emotions.”
“...Take him to recover, I will report to the boss.”
I'm safe now!
Han Xiao could finally relax. He had come up with the idea of acting slow to lower their guard during the procedure.
Although I didn't transmigrate to an ideal location, at least it's not so bad time-wise.
The Valkyrie experiment was the prototype of a later supersoldier project that implemented microchips into test subjects in order to ensure loyalty.
Transmigrating to then would have been way worse. They would have been able to blow him up anytime.
At least Lady Luck is smiling upon me in one regard!
...
Hila made a call through an encrypted line.
“Boss, the situation has stabilized.”
“Is the brainwashing complete?”
The man's voice was hoarse.
“I oversaw the procedure. There was no issue. What arrangements do you have for Zero?”
“The Valkyrie experiment's aim is to train soldiers, so train him.”
“How is my sister doing?”
“Don't forget the deal,” the man warned. “I gave you permission to visit her once every two months. Don't cross the line.”
Hila clenched her fists.
...
The interior of the underground Valkyrie lab was almost entirely white. Guards constantly patrolled the grounds.
After a night's rest, Han Xiao was brought to an isolated training field where Hila awaited.
While he was not too sure of what arrangements the organization had for him, he was certain that they would value his 'learning ability', meaning he would definitely get the chance to level up his Mechanic abilities.
It was virtually impossible to escape from such a tightly guarded fortress, so Han Xiao had steeled himself for the long haul.
“Zero, you will undergo daily combat and shooting practice from today onward.”
Hila tossed a suit to him.
“Put it on.”
Han Xiao quickly wore it.
As soon as he put the suit on, Hila attacked, launching a vicious kick at chest level.
Bang!
Too fast!
Han Xiao was unable to react, and the kick cracked his ribs through armour. He staggered back over a dozen paces and clutched onto his chest, coughing.
As expected of a superhuman.
Although she was obviously not going all out, she was still several times faster than an ordinary person.
“30 seconds of rest,” she stated blandly.
Combat training was tough, but straightforward. No words were exchanged between the pair.
They continued like this for two hours, by the end of which Han Xiao was completely exhausted and covered in bruises. He also now suspected that Hila had masochistic tendencies.
'Are all ice queen types like this?' he wondered.
___________________ _
Hila (Lv. 30) has taught you [Basic Combat]
Progress Rate: 5%
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Hila left wordlessly.
A stout, burly man arrived to yank Han Xiao to the target practice field.
“I am your shooting trainer, and one of the vice-managers of this base, Baltar,” introduced the scary looking man with a hideous knife scar across his forehead.
He pushed a 73-W.A.S.P into Han Xiao's hands and said, “There's ten bullets, hit the bullseye with all of them.”
Han Xiao frowned. How could a beginner who had never touched a gun in real life before hit the bullseye‽ Moreover, the target was a moving dummy 30 metres away.
“I'm no Olympic champion!”
Han Xiao shrugged his shoulders and raised the gun with his aching arms.
Bang, bang, bang...!
After ten shots, Han Xiao took a look at the scoreboard. As expected, he had failed.
Suddenly, he felt a searing pain in his back. It was only with great restraint that he did not scream out.
He turned around, only to see a frenzied Baltar licking blood off a black tactical knife.
“Continue. One miss, one cut. Let's see how much blood you will lose today.”
Han Xiao moved a hand across his back, and it returned bloody.
“Bastard!” he cursed inwardly.
One of the glass panels in the room was a one-way mirror. Hila and Lin Wei Xian were observing from the other side.
“Baltar is being too careless with my precious test subject! Might as well let me dissect him now,” bemoaned Lin Wei Xian.
Hila cast a plain look at Lin Wei Xian and replied, “The organization will not approve of your request.”
Lin Wei Xian laughed coldly in response.
“I will have my way sooner or later. I created him! He is mine!”
Hila remained silent.
...
___________________ _
Baltar (Lv 15) has taught you [Basic Shooting]
Progress Rate: 5%
[Agent] Profession Unlock Rate: 1%
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Han Xiao was cut again and again. The cuts themselves might not have been deep, but there were so many of them that his clothes were completely drenched in blood.
Baltar watch the weakened Han Xiao with a grin. He reveled in the smell of fresh blood.
“Why are you not screaming?” he asked. “A good toy screams.”
Damn bastard!
Han Xiao took a deep breath to compose himself. While he really felt like punching Baltar, he knew that he could not afford to act recklessly. It was similar in some sense to LoL – when you trash talk despite losing, you are only setting yourself up for a more spectacular fall.
For now, all he could do was suck it up.
'Laugh while you can...' Han Xiao gritted his teeth.
Chapter 4: 600,000 experience points!
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
After the blood boiling training session, Han Xiao was brought to dip in a special restorative bath for two hours. Although it healed his wounds, the pain from the cuts still lingered.
There was an unused machinery tuning room in the base, and as Han Xiao had demonstrated some talent with machines, he was arranged to reside there. In the room were materials, tools, and a vehicle bench that he was given free rein to use. There were also shelves of books lined against the wall. Although there was a surveillance camera in a corner of the room, Han Xiao paid no heed to it—he had expected to be monitored 24/7.
In the present year 687, Aquamarine was still a relatively new planet in the grand scheme of things. The planet was in the midst of a transition towards a 'new era', hence its technologies were still quite far behind for a sci-fi game, similar to that of Earth.
Mechanic talents were split into three trees. Each talent tree had over 20 talents that were divided into the five levels of basic, intermediate, advanced, expert, and master. Talents formed the core of a character's class.
Learning a class unlocks the first talent, and subsequent talents require talent points.
There are three ways to obtain talent points: through leveling, special quests, or mastering a skill.
Han Xiao decided to hold on to his two talent points. Talents were not yet a major concern for him. Many new players spent them as soon as they got them, but talent points actually became harder to come by in the later stages of the game. They were to be used wisely.
Outside of training, Han Xiao was basically free to do whatever he could, and he spent all his time on machinery in order to accumulate as much experience as possible to escape this prison.
...
Time went by quickly.
Han Xiao continued to assemble and enhance machines to gain experience, and as he improved, his perfection rate in assembly consistently hit over 90%. This gave him a lot of bonus experience.
Although assembling the same kind of machine too many times gradually decreased the experience gained—up to a point where it would not yield any experience at all—there was an armory in the base that was essentially a gold mine of machines, providing Han Xiao with all the resources he needed to gain experience through assembly.
Han Xiao kept a low profile and continued to remain quiet and docile. Gradually, the organization also stopped monitoring him so closely.
Although the organization had high hopes for him, he knew that standing out would only be disadvantageous, so he chose to accumulate experience instead of leveling up when he could.
Very soon, the research team lost interest in him. The degree of skill that he displayed in assembly was easily attainable by trained logistics personnel, and he simply did not fulfill their expectations.
They continued observing him for another month before writing him off as a failure. Instead of wasting more time on him, they chose to devote their efforts elsewhere and ceased the 24/7 surveillance.
This allowed Han Xiao to relax a little.
As the organization's attention gradually shifted away from him, eventually, only Lin Wei Xian and Baltar continued to keep tabs on him.
Although Lin Wei Xian's continued requests to dissect Han Xiao for research were still being rejected, Han Xiao knew that it was only a matter of time before they would be approved. There was not much time left for him.
As for Baltar, Han Xiao had become the sole target of his affection. As recovery pills were readily available, and the researchers believed that torture could stimulate growth, Baltar was allowed to indulge in his sadistic ways.
Han Xiao gradually grew numb to the pain.
With nothing much to do and no one to converse to, Han Xiao channeled his focus and thoughts into studying machinery. He found solace in the sense of accomplishment that crafting brought him.
...
One day, a number of armored guards came to the tuning room to move a large portion of Han Xiao's resources away. As Han Xiao watched them quietly, a person walked up to him.
“You have let the organization down. From today onward, your resources will be cut by 80%.”
The person who spoke to Han Xiao was test subject No. 1.
“I heard that you are my predecessor. With so many resources, is all you can make garbage like this?
“You are a failure, and I have been chosen to replace you.”
For some reason, the sight of Han Xiao irked No. 1. Han Xiao remained silent.
The organization prioritized results. Since Han Xiao was not giving them results, he was being stripped of his privileges. They planned to devote their resources to grooming the more promising No. 1.
As the research lab did not have any maintenance personnel for machinery, Han Xiao still got to keep the tuning room for himself. He was now assigned to perform maintenance and repairs.
“Tsk tsk, sad rats.”
A few guards who saw the pair conversed among themselves.
“Brainwashed lab rats. Fated to be sacrificed.”
“I'd rather die than end up like that.”
“Shh, they can hear us.”
“It doesn't matter does it? They've already been brainwashed anyway.”
To them, test subjects were less than animals.
Han Xiao walked away silently.
...
Half a year passed.
In this period of time, Han Xiao managed to figure out the layout of the entire facility and the routines of the staff.
The Valkyrie Laboratory, commanded by Hila, was an underground facility that comprised of three floors. Because it was a secret base, it wasn't built to be very big, and was concealed within an uninhabited forest. Its supplies were delivered by airdrop.
A total of 60 armored guards patrolled the facility. Every now and then, the organization would send a batch of test subjects who had had their memories wiped here for experimentation.
Although there were a dozen so other Valkyrie laboratories, this base was the main one. After Han Xiao and No. 1, the Germinal Organization had managed to produce another 76 successful test subjects.
While most of them had already been transferred to other facilities, No. 1 and nine other exceptional test subjects were chosen to form a squad, and they were still awaiting orders here.
Han Xiao had grown accustomed to his life here. Aside from training, he spent all his time working with machines in the tuning room. The room had become a haven of sorts for him.
The guards gradually began to ignore his presence and when he passed by, they would simply gloss over him as though he were invisible.
This was extremely advantageous for Han Xiao, who was tirelessly gaining as much experience as he could. He also tried to memorize as many blueprints as he could.
The experience that assembly and enhancement rewarded were separate. When Han Xiao could no longer gain experience from assembling a certain machine, he would proceed to work on enhancing it. He was always careful to revert the machinery back to its original state after enhancing so as to keep his abilities a secret.
After many hours of training, Han Xiao also managed to master the two skills of [Basic Combat] and [Basic Shooting] and unexpectedly unlocked a passive ability called [Grinder], which gave him +100 Health.
He also unlocked the sub-class of [Agent], and was now at a character level of 4.
After his continued efforts, [Basic Assembly] and [Basic Enhancement] reached Lv. 4, while [Basic Combat] and [Basic Shooting] reached Lv. 2.
Mechanics required substantial amounts of resources and currency for growth, and while this would normally be a limitation to the class, Han Xiao had access to free materials from the organization.
He had used up almost 90% of the machines in the armory, accumulating a total of 600,00 experience!
Without monsters or missions, only mechanics could earn so much experience in such a short amount of time.
...
“Give Lin Wei Xian the green light. He has asked repeatedly. He may dissect Zero,” ordered the boss over the line.
Hila frowned.
“You rejected him repeatedly.”
“The organization has devoted so much resources to him already. We must gain something in return,” said the boss plainly. “The only worth that trash has is in being recycled. That, is Zero's fate.”
Hila bit her lip.
“Understood.”
“What are the results of No. 1 and his team's training?” continued the boss.
“Very promising. I see potential in them.”
“Very good. Send them to the Night Owl base for training, I have already sent the Night Owl squad to receive them. They will arrive in two or three days.”
“That's the day I visit my sister!”
“You don't need to follow them.”
“Alright.”
Chapter 5: Lightweight Mechanical Arm
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
“Ha!” cried out Hila as her bullet-like fist connected onto Han Xiao's chest.
Han Xiao endured the pain of the blow to grab Hila by her collar. With a mighty twist, he threw Hila over his shoulder.
However, it was ineffective. Hila effortlessly nullified the shoulder throw by performing a flip.
Han Xiao paused to rub his chest.
“Is that all that you are capable of?” Hila was visibly upset.
Han Xiao remained silent. He had expected the organization to have given up on him with what little progress he had shown, but for the past six months, Hila had dutifully trained with him every single day. For some reason, though, she was going especially hard on him today.
Although Hila was the commander of this base, she did not have much work to do. Training Han Xiao was actually one of the few things that she had to look forward to. When she had learnt of the boss's intention to hand him to Lin Wei Xian, it had upset her.
Although they had never actually conversed before, it was 6 months of accompaniment regardless. A person could even develop feelings for an object if he or she spent that much time with it! Perhaps, due to having grown used to seeing Han Xiao everyday, Hila was a bit reluctant to hand him over.
“How many times has it been?” she wondered. “All those people... all those faces...”
The organization's cruel methods had not only caused her to lose many of her friends—she had also lost her sister.
The reason she had pushed Han Xiao harder today was to try and stimulate him. She had hoped to be able to draw out any latent talent in him.
However, it had clearly been too much to ask for.
“The boss has approved of Lin Wei Xian's request to dissect you...” She sighed.
Strictly speaking, this was the first time she had ever spoken of anything outside of training to Han Xiao.
Han Xiao's eyes flashed.
Finally...
Although Han Xiao had been anticipating this from the moment he decided to lie low, he did not regret doing so—his background made it impossible for him to rise up through the ranks, which meant that he would only be able to continue on as a henchman. Either way, Han Xiao did not wish to work for the organization.
Suddenly, Han Xiao noticed a photograph on the ground. It seemed to have fallen out of Hila's pocket during their fight. Han Xiao bent down to pick it up.
It was a group photo set in front of a vast, blue sea that was basking under a setting sun.
Two girls stood side by side in the center. One of them was Hila, who was smiling radiantly. The other girl had snow-white hair and seemed to resemble Hila somewhat. She looked both clever and gentle.
Hila's face changed upon realizing that she had dropped the photo. She immediately bent down to snatch for it. When she saw that it was undamaged, she let out a sigh of relief. As she pocketed it, she took a final, probing look at Han Xiao before turning around to leave.
The interface suddenly lit up with a message.
___________________ _
You have initiated a D-Class Quest:
[Night Owl Plans]
Accept / Decline
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Han Xiao's eyes lit up. My first mission in six months‽
Accept!
___________________ _
Quest Synopsis:
The dark and blood-stained advent of the Germinal Organization has always been a great mystery to the Six Nations of Planet Aquamarine. Hila has a secret past that no one knows about. Where do her loyalties truly lie? You now hold one of the clues to this mystery. Will you seek to uncover the truth?
(You may choose to pass this clue on to someone else for a small reward.)
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The quest had obviously been initiated by the photo.
Han Xiao knew who the white-haired girl was. She was none other than Hila's younger sister, Aurora.
While the sisters both possessed supernatural powers, their powers were of two extremes.
Aurora's blood possessed mysterious healing properties that could extend life or even bring back the dead. She had been brainwashed, and was now being controlled by the Germinal. Not only were they taking advantage of her powers, they were also using her as leverage to make Hila do their bidding.
Hila only cared for one person, and that was Aurora.
The war between the six countries and the Germinal Organization reached a climax at the conclusion of Version 1.0.
As a last resort, the Germinal Organization used Aurora's flesh and blood to create an endless supply of miracle drugs that won them the war. Hila, who had been at the front lines at the time, only learnt of what had happened a few months later.
Losing her sister tore her apart, and the Germinal Organization took advantage of her moment of weakness to capture and imprison her.
After her escape, she became cold-blooded and ruthless, going so far as to sacrifice countless of lives in order to awaken her latent powers.
She turned to the dark side and stopped at nothing to gain power, eventually coming to be known as the 'Goddess of Death' whose very name spread fear throughout the Shattered Belt.
Although the present Hila was cold, compared to the future Goddess of Death who wielded the power to wipe out entire civilizations, she was a billion times nicer.
If he had the chance, Han Xiao would definitely do his best to alter her tragic fate – not out of pity, but to prevent her from destroying his fleet of spaceships. However, he was still far too weak to do anything. Escaping the base was his primary goal.
Han Xiao knew from Hila's routine the past six months that she would leave the lab in two days.
That would be the perfect chance.
Han Xiao returned to the tuning room and summoned the interface. He currently possessed two sub-classes, and one main class: Civilian, Agent, and Mechanic (Novice).
Of the five main classes, Mechanics were weaker in the early stages of the game. They were also more intended to be a support class early on. In Version 3.0, however, they would receive new talents that greatly buffed their combat capabilities to become one of the more popular classes.
In the later stages of the game, a high-level Mechanic was akin to an entire galactic fleet.
Mechanics were well known for having many skills. Each blueprint itself could be seen as a skill, and since there were thousands of blueprints of machines, Mechanics could be played in any number of ways. The slew of skills at their disposal made them adept at all sorts of tactics and warfare.
Nevertheless, they had a glaring weakness—they needed more experience than other classes to level up.
Han Xiao contemplated for a moment before dumping all the experience he could into [Mechanic], initiating a leveling frenzy.
___________________ _
Engineer (Novice) has been raised to Lv. 3
+ 10 Energy, + 1 I.N.T, + 1 End
+ 2 unassigned stat points
+ 1 talent point
...
Engineer (Novice) has been raised to Lv. 10 (max)
+ 30 Energy, + 1 I.N.T, + 1 End
+ 2 unassigned stat points
+ 1 talent point
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It took 130,000 experience to level Lv. 2 Mechanic (Novice) to Lv. 10. As a result, Han Xiao gained 8 Endurance, 8 Intelligence, 100 Energy, 16 stat points, 8 talent points, and was now Lv. 12.
It was usually more cost-effective to raise the level of the main class first as it gave more Energy.
As Han Xiao did not meet the requirement for class advancement yet, he could not level [Mechanic] up any further.
Most classes had a starting level cap of Lv. 10 that could only be exceeded after performing an advancement.
Han Xiao continued to use 80,000 experience to level up [Agent] to Lv. 9. He gained +12 Strength, +9 Dexterity, +3 Charm, 9 talent points, and 9 points of unassigned stats from this, and hit Lv. 20.
While a character could have any number of classes, Lv. 20 was the maximum character level before completing the special advancement mission. In the game, the maximum level was usually raised every major update. In Version 1.0, it was Lv. 60.
Galaxy had hundreds of classes and this gave players unlimited combinations to play around with. It made it common for a character to have individualized skill-sets. As there was no fixed strategy in particular, each and every character could be skilled uniquely. This was one of the game's strong points.
Han Xiao discovered an anomaly! His interface did not display a maximum level! This could mean that he was allowed to exceed the limits of a regular character!
The gameplay of Version 1.0 and Version 2.0 was mostly based around the beginner planets. Although the stronger civilizations in the universe were already implemented from the start, players were unable to interact with them. Han Xiao wondered if his N.P.C status would have any impact on this.
___________________ _
Lv. 20 Advancement Mission:
Learn an advanced Mechanic skill.
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As one of the requirements to learning an advanced Mechanic skill was to gain advanced knowledge, Han Xiao had no way to proceed with the advancement.
He used another 150,000 experience to raise [Basic Assembly] and [Basic Enhancement] to their Lv. 10 each, thereby gaining two talent points.
He then used 10,000 experience to raise the level of his [Machinery Affinity (Novice)] to Lv. 3.
After some calculations, Han Xiao proceeded to use 60,000 experience to reach Lv. 6 in both [Basic Combat] and [Basic Shooting], and this unlocked [Grappling] and [Precise Aim].
He intended to use the remaining 170,000 experience to do some 'blueprint gambling'.
Blueprints were an important feature of the Mechanic class. The first method of obtaining them would be through leveling talents.
The second method would be through completing missions—some missions rewarded blueprints.
The third way through perform reverse engineering, done by disassembling machinery. However, on top of certain conditions and requirements, this method expended experience points.
The fourth way—and the most important one—was through combining talents. This method also expended experience points.
As there were 60 talents, and the same type of combination could yield different kinds of blueprints, the possibilities were endless. Some blueprints even had hidden prerequisites, making it hard to determine exactly how many blueprints could be derived from a certain combination.
The experience needed to perform talent combination also increased with each attempt, and if the player received the same blueprint again, the experience expended would not be compensated. This it is why talent combination was widely known as 'blueprint gambling'.
As useful as it was, it did consume a lot of experience.
Back to before he had transmigrated, players had discovered and researched thousands of combinations, and Han Xiao was familiar with many of them! As a Mechanic, he would be able to overcome the early weaknesses of the class as there were a few rare blueprints of godly equipment that could be crafted by a Novice Engineer!
Besides the four methods of obtaining blueprints above, there was also a lesser used method known as 'free creation', where players were allowed to freely create machines that they conceptualized. However, this method had an abysmal success rate.
The success rate of free creation depends on various factors such as the viability of the concept itself, the quality of the materials, the character's level in knowledge, certain abilities, tools used, and so on. Before Han Xiao transmigrated, players still had not managed to figure out the exact science behind it. It was simply too hard to succeed at this method, causing it to be largely viewed as a waste of time and effort.
As Han Xiao had gained 19 talent points from leveling his classes, and 2 points from maxing two of his skills, he now had a total of 21 talent points.
Han Xiao proceeded to pick out two books from the shelf before summoning the interface.
___________________ _
Use 1 talent point to unlock the Weaponry branch talent: [Basic Mechanical Engineering]. Y/N
Use 1 talent point to unlock the Weaponry branch talent: [Basic Bio-engineering]. Y/N
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Confirm!
A large amount of information related to these two talents began to be transmitted into Han Xiao's brain, causing him some discomfort. This continued for ten minutes.
When he was done, he used another two talent points to raise them to Lv. 2, increasing his degree of comprehension for them.
“Combining these two Lv. 2 talents can yield 6 types of blueprints. Each combination will double the required experience for the next. The first combination requires 10,000 experience, so 170,000 experience will allow me to combine 4 times. I must get that blueprint in four tries!”
Han Xiao's nervously proceeded to combine [Lv. 2 Basic Mechanical Engineering] and [Lv. 2 Basic Bio-engineering].
___________________ _
Proceed with talent combination of [Lv. 2 Basic Mechanical Engineering] and [Lv. 2 Basic Bio-engineering]?
10,000 experience will be used.
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Yes!
Han Xiao's vision whirled momentarily as a new blueprint appeared before him.
___________________ _
Success! Congratulations on discovering [Sky Swallow Gliders]!
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Not this one! Han Xiao clenched his fists. Continue!
___________________ _
... 20,000 experience will be used.
Success! Congratulations on discovering [Bionic Limb]!
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Damn it! This is the worst one!
Again!
___________________ _
... 40,000 experience will be used.
Success! Congratulations on discovering [Lightweight Mechanical Arm]!
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This is it!
Han Xiao slammed the table excitedly.
Haha! Lightweight Mechanical Arm... This is what I was hoping for!
Half a year of hard work almost went down the drain.
___________________ _
Name: Han Xiao
Race: Human/Carbon-based (Yellow)
Model: N.P.C (countdown to Version 1.0 launch: 182 days 8 hours 23 minutes)
Level: 20 (Can proceed with advancement)
Main Class: Engineer (Novice) – Lv. 10/10 (Can proceed with advancement)
Sub-classes:
Civilian – Lv. 1
Agent – Lv. 9 (0/25000)
Health: 320/320
Stamina: 434/434
Attributes: 21 S.T.R, 17 D.E.X, 22 End, 15 I.N.T, 1 M.Y.S, 5 C.H.A, 1 L.U.K
Unassigned Stats: 27
Energy: 120 [Lv. 3]
Lv. 1 (10) – [S.T.R +1, D.E.X + 1, End + 1, Max Stamina + 20]
Lv. 2 (50) – [S.T.R +3, D.E.X + 2, End + 3, Max Stamina + 50]
Lv. 3 (100) – [S.T.R +3, D.E.X + 3, End + 5, Max Stamina + 100]
Energy Rank: 48 to 55
Grade: F (Mortal)
[To the weakest superhuman... you are a slightly huge ant!]
Abilities:
– Concentration: + 10% to mastery and crafting speeds
– Lesser Willpower: + 3 Focus
– Grinder: + 100 Health
Skills:
[Mechanic]
Novice Mechanic Affinity – Lv. 3
Basic Maintenance – Lv. 10 (max)
Basic Enhancement – Lv. 10 (max)
Blueprint: Cloud Sparrow Glider – Lv. 1 (0/5000)
Blueprint: Bionic Limb – Lv. 1 (0/2000)
Blueprint: Lightweight Mechanical Arm – Lv. 1 (0/10000)
[Agent]
Basic Combat – Lv. 6 (0/16000) – +6% Damage when unarmed
Basic Shooting – Lv. 6 (0/16000) – +6% Accuracy
Grappling – Lv. 1 (0/3000) – +3% Parry, +2% Damage when unarmed
Precise Aim – Lv. 1 (0/3000) – +3% Accuracy, +2% Ranged Damage
Talent Points: 17
Class Talents:
Arms
Basic Assembly Lv. 1 (0/1)
Basic Mechanical Engineering Lv. 2 (0/1)
Basic Bio-engineering Lv. 2 (0/1)
(17 talents not learnt)
Energy
[20 talents not learnt]
Control
[20 talents not learnt]
Influence: 0
Legend: 0
Equipment: None
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In one shot, Han Xiao was able to reach Lv. 20 and significantly boost his combat ability.
He spent 5 of his 27 unassigned stat points to raise his Intelligence to 20, fulfilling the prerequisite to craft the Lightweight Mechanical Arm.
Now, he had one thing left to do: suit up!
Han Xiao grinned as he looked at the spare parts scattered all across the floor.
I will show you what 'raising a tiger's cub' means!
Chapter 6: Taking Action!
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
The Valkyrie Lab was hidden underneath an abandoned farm situated within an extremely large forest. The farm itself was enclosed by a tall electrical fence.
A Black Harrier helicopter descended on the abandoned farm. Six fully equipped agents dressed in black emerged from the aircraft.
“I am the captain of Night Owl Squad 3, Silver Blade. I've come under orders to transport the Valkyrie Squad,” introduced the stony-faced captain.
“Stop wasting my time,” replied an irritated Hila as she fixed her tousled hair. “There are vehicles in the hangar. I'll take the helicopter.”
No. 1, who had been chosen to lead the Valkyrie squad, stepped forward.
“Test subject No. 1 greets officer!”
“Follow us.”
“Yes sir!”
As Hila hopped on the helicopter, she frowned.
“Strange... It feels like I've forgotten something...”
...
Machinery tuning room.
Han Xiao was almost done with crafting the Lightweight Mecha Arm. It had proven harder to craft than expected. In the game, blueprint crafting was guided—the player simply needed to input the materials and follow a few simplified steps. Now, however, Han Xiao had to do everything manually. It wasn't necessarily a bad thing though, as it did give him the freedom to make small modifications.
Although the organization had taken away most of Han Xiao resources, there was still enough left for him to work with. He had primarily used manganese, a tough alloy well suited for making weapons and armour.
While the design of the Lightweight Mecha Arm was very basic, it would have to suffice.
Han Xiao put down the wrench in his hand. The Lightweight Mecha Arm was now complete.
___________________ _
Lightweight Mecha Arm (Left)
Quality: Average
Basic Stats
– Damage: 35~58
– Defense: 13~17
– Power Level: 38
– Durability: 270/270
Equip Requirement: 25 S.T.R
Stat Bonus: -3 Speed
Length: 0.51 m
Weight: 14.7 kilograms
Additional Bonus: +10 S.T.R
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Han Xiao gained 3000 experience points from crafting the arm. Crafting generally rewarded more experience than assembly or enhancement.
Han Xiao currently had 21 S.T.R, so he needed to spend another 4 stat points to equip the mecha arm.
After crafting the mecha arm, Han Xiao crafted a 73-W.A.S.P and enhanced it to 38 to 47 damage. He also forged a 10 damage carbide tactical knife.
He hid the Lightweight Mecha Arm and the enhanced 73-W.A.S.P before heading out to the canteen.
The canteen was like a recreation room of sorts for the staff in the facility. They would come here to relax and while away the time. Han Xiao had learnt a lot of information from eavesdropping on their conversations.
A groups of guards were chatting nosily.
“I want to go outside too! Being confined for so long is getting on my nerves.”
“Well, Hila's an officer. Her status is much higher than ours.”
“Man, I'd do anything to spend a night with her.”
“Hey, watch your mouth. Do you know why she's an officer?”
“Because... she's a superhuman?”
“Of course she is!”
Han Xiao rejoiced at the confirmation of Hila's absence.
“Looks like today is the day,” he murmured to himself.
Han Xiao got up and headed to basement 3. His target was the surveillance room.
There were two guards stationed outside the surveillance room. Before entering the corridor, Han Xiao slapped a piece of half-chewed bread onto the surveillance camera.
He had learnt that the guards did not take their shifts seriously, and true enough, nothing happened even after a while.
After composing himself, Han Xiao entered the corridor and approached the two guards.
“No unauthorized personnel,” warned the first guard.
“It's Zero. Just shoo him away,” laughed the second.
The first guard nodded. He was about to push Han Xiao away when, suddenly, Han Xiao grabbed hold of his wrist and stabbed the second guard in the chin with a knife. The knife pierced all the way into the guard's brain.
Han Xiao then immediately maneuvered around the first guard to perform a chokehold on him.
Crack!
Han Xiao had dispatched of both guards in an instant!
___________________ _
You have dealt a fatal blow!
You have dealt a fatal blow!
“-162”
“-171”
You have killed a Guard of the Germinal Organization, gaining 360 experience!
You have killed a Guard of the Germinal Organization, gaining 360 experience!
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Han Xiao carefully placed the guard on the ground before checking their stats.
___________________ _
Lv. 7 Agent
10 S.T.R, 15 End
150 Health
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___________________ _
You have acquired 4 bullets.
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Han Xiao re-equipped the dagger before slowly pushing the door open.
A jaw-dropping sight greeted him.
Two guards were pressed together in an extremely compromising position. The sound of the door opening had startled them, and they were staring at Han Xiao in horror.
Spicy.
Chapter 7: Panic
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
Well, this is awkward. Should I just pretend like nothing happened and step out?wondered Han Xiao.
Han Xiao did not have anything in particular against any group of people. He respected people's hobbies and interests. These two men before him were simply two lonely hearts who had had no way of releasing their pent-up frustrations. Over time, their common bond developed into something special...
It's not your fault! It's Tokiomi's 1 —I mean—it's just how things ended up!
Although Han Xiao's mind was dulled with such thoughts, his body was quick to act. Reversing his grip on his knife, he rushed forward to attack the closer guard.
The guard was unable to react in time, and as he fumbled to draw his gun, Han Xiao went in for the kill.
Unfortunately, the second guard kicked him to safety.
Han Xiao's surprise attack had failed, but he was not disheartened. Twirling the knife in his hand, he switched back to a standard grip and stabbed the second guard in his abdomen, followed by striking his neck with his free hand. The guard collapsed to the ground.
___________________ _
Overwhelming Force!
You have 25 Strength. The target has 10 Strength.
As you have over twice as much Strength as the target, your attack dealt 50% more damage!
The target has lost consciousness.
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One down!
The other guard who had been kicked to safety rolled further away to create some space between him and Han Xiao before raising his gun to fire.
Han Xiao immediately tackled him down and slammed his hand against the floor, causing him to release the gun in pain.
It would have been disastrous for Han Xiao if he had managed to fire.
Han Xiao proceeded to head-butt the guard on his nose, disorienting him, and circled around to strangle him from behind.
Rear naked chokehold!
The guard's face turned purple as he struggled to break free.
___________________ _
You have performed a [Submission].
You have 25 Strength. Your target has 11 Strength.
Your target is unable to break free.
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The guard struggled for a few more seconds before fainting.
“That was close... It would have been easier if I were a Pugilist,” panted Han Xiao as he got up.
The Pugilist class was the most popular class in Galaxy for the simple reason that it was the coolest looking class. Their skills had the coolest names, such as 'Inferno Quake', 'Devil's Beam', or 'Star Breaker'. Of course, many skills were not actually as powerful as their names suggested, but the point is that they sounded cool!
Shouting out the skill's name as you used it also always seemed to make it stronger. Although most players weren't thick skinned enough to do so, Han Xiao enjoyed it.
Pugilists were also a much simpler class to play – basically, just keep on hitting the enemy. Compared to the most demanding class to play, the Mechanic, the difference was night and day.
Han Xiao used his knife to finish the two unconscious guards. He looted four magazines of bullets from them.
He then moved the bodies of the other two guards into the room, cleaned up the bloodstains in the corridor, and smashed up all the security monitors. After confirming that he had not missed anything, Han Xiao emerged from the room with his usual blank expression on once more.
Eliminating the surveillance room was important to Han Xiao's escape – it allowed him to move freely.
Han Xiao returned to the second floor where a guard suddenly stopped him.
“Mr. Lin Wei Xian wants to see you.”
Han Xiao's eyes flashed.
Lin Wei Xian was one of the few people in the base who possessed a security pass that could access the main gate. He was saving Han Xiao the trouble of looking for him.
Han Xiao followed the guard to Lin Wei Xian's private laboratory. It was a dimly lit room. The walls were lined with shelves of specimen jars filled with organs – almost like the private collection of a homicidal murderer.
“The organization has finally let me have you. If I dissect you, I will be able to find out the difference between you and the other test subjects. After extracting all the valuable information your body has to offer, I will preserve your corpse as a specimen. You will be fondly remembered as the first test subject.”
Han Xiao remained silent in the dark.
“You there, secure him tightly and don't let him struggle. It'll ruin my experiment,” ordered Lin Wei Xian.
He then proceeded to turn around to retrieve his toolbox of oddly-shaped surgical knifes and scalpels. Before Han Xiao, how many had fallen prey to them?
Suddenly, Lin Wei Xian heard a dull thud from behind. He turned around, only to discover that Han Xiao was standing right behind him.
Before he could react, Lin Wei Xian felt a pain in his chest. Looking down blankly, he saw that a knife was stabbed directly into his heart.
His eyes widened with shock as he dropped the surgical knife he was holding
He could see the motionless guard lying on the floor behind Han Xiao, as well as the coldness in Han Xiao's eyes.
Right! This room is under surveillance!
Han Xiao seemed to have read his mind. “Give up. I've already cleaned the surveillance room.”
That tone... is this really that dim-witted Zero?
Lin Wei Xian shuddered as the color in his face drained quickly.
“Half... half a year... you've been faking it all along?”
Han Xiao nodded.
“How is that possible... You've fooled everyone!” Lin Wei Xian wondered aloud, incredulous.
“Nothing is impossible in this world.” Han Xiao twisted the knife viciously.
Lin Wei Xian crumpled to the ground, wide-eyed in indignation and terror.
“I... am your... creator...”
Chapter 8: I Have the Trashtalk to Back Me Up
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
Han Xiao changed into the guard's uniform before leaving Lin Wei Xian's laboratory.
It was likely that people knew he had been taken to Lin Wei Xian, so a disguise was necessary. There were usually four people in the base that he had to watch out for – Hila, No. 1, Lin Wei Xian, and Baltar. As Hila was not in, No. 1 had left, and Lin Wei Xian was a non-factor now, Han Xiao's escape would proceed smoothly as long as he did not encounter Baltar.
The main gate to the base was a reinforced steel door almost one metre thick. Even if Han Xiao used all the explosives in the armory, it would still not be enough to blast it open. The only way to escape would be through unlocking it, and only three people possessed the security pass to do so. One of them was none other than Lin Wei Xian, and, naturally, Han Xiao had already acquired his pass.
However, as the main gate was heavily manned, and everyone knew exactly who possessed a pass, escaping was not that straightforward.
If Han Xiao so much as appeared at the main gate, he would be surrounded by heavy fire in mere seconds. One bullet would do only 10 damage to him, but add them all up and he would be lucky to last for even a second.
Mm, not a bad way to go, he thought, but I think I'll come up with a better idea.
Han Xiao's plan was to cripple their communications in order to gain a few hours of time. This was the safest option. Currently, he was heading back to the tuning room to retrieve the mecha arm first.
As the tuning room came into sight, Han Xiao was suddenly pushed from the side. To his horror, the person who had pushed him was none other than Baltar.
Why am I so unlucky‽ he groaned inwardly.
“Which squad are you from?” questioned Baltar. “Why have I never seen you before?”
Han Xiao lowered his head and pushed his cap down.
“I'm new here. I'm from squad B.”
“Why was I not informed of new guards? Hold on, your voice sounds familiar. Raise your head and show me your face.”
Han Xiao noticed that Baltar was slowly reaching for his handgun. Three guards nearby had also sensed that something was amiss.
What should I do now?
If Han Xiao were exposed now, Baltar would definitely send guards to look for Lin Wei Xian. That would be disastrous.
“This is a problem... I didn't want to have to resort to plan B...” muttered Han Xiao.
“What did you say?”
Suddenly, Han Xiao raised his head to reveal his face to Baltar.
“I've always wanted to tell you this: go see a shrink, psycho!”
“Zero‽”
Han Xiao took advantage of his confusion and thrust his knife into Baltar's chest.
Unfortunately, Baltar dodged on reflex, and Han Xiao's knife only grazed his chin.
“Fire!”
The three guards hastily reached out to draw their guns. Unfortunately, they were too close to Han Xiao, and Han Xiao managed to close in on them before they could fire. He sent a fist smashing into the nearest guard's face.
-48!
The punch sent the guard flying backwards into his comrades.
Han Xiao gritted his teeth as he turned around to make a dash for the tuning room.
Baltar's face darkened as he felt his chin. As he gave chase, he shouted into the transmitter on his collar, “All agents, listen up! Come to the tuning room on the second floor at once! Test subject Zero has gone rogue!”
All the guards who heard the news were stunned.
“Zero? Gone rogue? Are you sure‽”
“Wasn't he brainwashed?”
“Is this a drill?”
“Are you dumb? Didn't you hear the gunshots‽”
Han Xiao became strangely calm under the assault of Baltar's gunfire. As his brain began to process all the variables and data in his surroundings, the world before him astonishingly changed. Han Xiao's surroundings began to be reduced to 3D lines, as though his mind were filtering out all the clutter – making everything look clear to him. Somehow, he had entered a state of mind in which all his brain's functions were heightened.
“2.0 seconds to reach the tuning room. 3.7 seconds for Baltar to catch up. The three guards will not pose any threat for another 4.2 seconds. Roughly 30.0 seconds before reinforcements arrive...”
Han Xiao had been through countless battles before. Although they were all from his time in the game, it was still experience. And it was precisely experience that enabled him to tap into this special state.
He started to run in an irregular pattern to dodge the bullets.
“Interesting. The toy wants to resist,” mused a frenzied Baltar. “You asked for it!”
Baltar was an elite agent with over 20 years of experience. No matter how terrifying Han Xiao's learning capability was, he had essentially trained for only 6 months. To him, the outcome was already decided.
As soon as Han Xiao neared the tuning room, he jumped inside and locked the door.
Baltar burst out in maniacal laughter as he paused to reload his gun.
“Hiding in a room? You have sealed your fate!”
Suddenly, the door was blasted into smithereens by what appeared to be a gigantic mecha arm that appeared out of nowhere. It followed through to smash into Baltar's chest.
-95!
Baltar was sent flying into the wall. 4 or 5 of his ribs were broken by the force of the impact. As he got up, he coughed a mouthful of blood and looked at the newly emerged Han Xiao in disbelief.
“What the hell is that‽” Baltar stared in shock at the gigantic mecha arm that was enshrouded by the black smoke it was pumping out.
The three guards raised their guns to fire, but Han Xiao was a step quicker. With his right hand, he drew his enhanced 73-W.A.S.P and fired two consecutive shots.
With the accuracy bonus provided from his skills and D.E.X, Han Xiao's current shooting abilities were extremely frightening. Each bullet hit either guard squarely in the throat.
The third guard opened fire, but Han Xiao simply raised the mecha arm.
Clank!
The bullet deflected.
___________________ _
Lightweight Mechanical Arm (Left) has lost 8 durability.
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Han Xiao fired another shot.
The guard collapsed to his knees with an expression of disbelief.
The corridor quietened down. Han Xiao and Baltar faced each other off.
“The nearest guard will take another thirty seconds to arrive,” calculated Han Xiao.
Han Xiao flexed his mecha arm tauntingly.
“I really feel like crushing your throat with my bare hands to thank you for all four hundred and twenty cuts.”
Baltor furiously spat out some blood and laughed coldly as he unsheathed a dagger that had been concealed within his boots.
“That was quite a punch, but don't think that you can defeat me with a piece of junk like that!”
“We'll see.”
“I can kill you ten times in thirty seconds!” howled Baltar as he suddenly pounced forward.
Han Xiao charged forward to meet him.
Sparks flew as Baltar's knife clashed with Han Xiao's mecha arm.
In the moment that they passed each other, Baltar bent down and aimed a kick at Han Xiao's knee with his foot. To trip the enemy from behind was an extremely effective tactic that Han Xiao had learnt from Hila, and, unfortunately for Baltar, Han Xiao had anticipated the move. Seemingly with superhuman reflexes, Han Xiao swung the entire mecha arm back to smash into Baltar's foot.
Baltar's foot was fractured by the blow. He crumpled to the gruond.
-87!
The Mechanical Arm had a power level of 38. Added onto Han Xiao's own power level, the might of blow was already at the level of an E-grade Superhuman. It had essentially doubled Han Xiao's damage.
Han Xiao estimated Baltar to have a max H.P of 300. Coupled with that destructive blow from earlier on, Han Xiao knew that he was probably at half health already.
Baltar was indeed extremely weakened. However, he endured the pain and continued to attack. Unfortunately, his actions had grown dull, and Han Xiao easily caught his arm.
“Impossible... How could I... You...”
Baltar howled indignantly as he struggled to break free from the grip of the mecha arm.
Suddenly, the world before him darkened as Han Xiao wrapped the mecha arm around his head and slammed him into the wall.
Splat!
Baltar was no more.
Han Xiao dragged the already unrecognizable Baltar against the wall.
“Sorry, I lied. I didn't crush your throat. Why don't you get up so I can do it properly?”
Baltar did not reply, not that he could.
___________________ _
You have killed Baltar, Vice-commander of the Valkyrie Lab, gaining 1,500 experience!
Chapter 9: Fierce Battle
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
Team A and Team B arrived at the gruesome scene on the second floor.
“Vice-commander Baltar has been killed‽”
“What exactly happened here?”
“Where's the enemy?”
“Why is the surveillance room not responding‽”
“Inform Professor Lin Wei Xian immediately!”
“Team C has discovered Professor Lin Wei Xian's body!”
“Oh my god...”
All the guards gasped in fear. Was all of this really done by Zero alone? All the commanders were either out or dead, and they realized that there was no one left to give them orders.
“Wasn't he brainwashed already‽ Has he been planning this from the very start?”
The thought of it sent chills down their spines; Han Xiao could have taken their lives anytime he wanted!
“Don't panic. There's only one enemy. Proceed with a sweep of the facility. Fire at will. Team A will head to the armory, Team B, check out the surveillance room.
Team C, go protect the laboratory. Team D, fortify the main gate. If Zero wants to escape he'll have to go there. Now, go!”
The Team A leader rose up to the occasion to give the orders.
There were a total of sixty guards in the base grouped into four teams. Usually, they were scattered, but this was an emergency.
Unfortunately, Han Xiao was reading them like a book.
Bang!
A loud crash came from above, and the entire facility started to tremble.
“What's going on‽” asked the panicked Team A leader through his intercom.
The sound of gunfire intermixed with panicked yelling could be heard from the other end.
“Team C has encountered the enemy in the lab. I repeat, Team C has encountered the enemy in the lab. Damn it! Zero set the lab on fire with a grenade!”
“Where did he get the grenade from‽”
The Team A leader was both enraged and horrified. His team had been standing guard outside the armory, but they had seen no one the entire time.
“Send reinforcements quickly! Which team is nearest?”
“Team B is also at basement 3. The surveillance room has been wiped. We're coming over right now!”
...
In Basement 3, Han Xiao was hiding behind a corner near the laboratory while the fire raged within. He had used three hand grenades to set the lab on fire. Presently, there were a dozen guards from Team C that had suspected his presence and were advancing on him.
After his battle with Baltar, Han Xiao had not headed for the main gate immediately. Instead, he had gone back down to basement 3, predicting that the guards would conduct a sweep of the facility from the top.
Since it was no longer possible to sneak out as he had planned, Han Xiao had to change his tactics. Here in the laboratory at basement 3 was where all the Valkyrie data was stored, making it one of the key areas of the entire facility. He knew that setting it ablaze would cause the enemy to panic.
I still have 77 bullets and 5 custom grenades.
Han Xiao reevaluated his inventory before peeking out from the corner for just an instant. Bullets were fired almost instantly.
Twelve guards. Three N.9 submachine guns, Nine 73-W.A.S.P handguns. I'm outclassed in firepower.
Han Xiao's mind raced. It had been a minute since he set the laboratory on fire. Team B would arrive within three minutes, so he did not have much time left. Han Xiao knew all of this because he had been eavesdropping on a stolen intercom.
Everything had happened so suddenly that the guards did not stop to consider this possibility.
Han Xiao tossed out a grenade, causing the Team C guards to frantically jump for cover.
Bang!
Han Xiao used the smoke of the blast to sneak up onto the nearest guard. He gave him a mecha punch in the stomach, crippling him.
“Shoot! Quickly! Shoot!”
The other guards resumed shooting. Han Xiao yanked the poor guard up to use as a shield, and while this did not stop them from shooting, Han Xiao was able to close the distance, and he swiftly dispatched of another three guards.
The remaining Team C guards scattered further back to pull apart from him. Han Xiao rolled and ducked as he closed in on them. The mecha arm's durability plummeted as bullets rained upon it. As Han Xiao evaded, he pulled out his handgun to return fire and scored three more kills.
Suddenly, Han Xiao grimaced.
___________________ _
You have been shot in your right arm by a 73-W.A.S.P! 17 damage taken!
You have been inflicted with a gun wound! You are now bleeding (light), and will lose 1 H.P every second for 15 seconds. Quickly bandage your wound!
You have been shot in your left leg by an N.9-SMG! 21 damage taken!
You have been inflicted with a gun wound! You are now bleeding (light), and will lose 1 H.P every second for 15 seconds. Quickly bandage your wound!
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If not for Baltar's 'training', he would definitely not be able to endure the pain.
Han Xiao grit his teeth and threw out another grenade.
Bang!
The blast of the grenade caused Han Xiao's ears to ring in pain. He growled it off and proceeded with his onslaught.
One minute later, Team C no longer existed. Han Xiao proceeded to bandage his wounds. He had lost 110 H.P – more than a third of his max H.P.
“A head-on assault is too costly. If only I had active skills...”
“Team C, Team C, please respond. What's the situation?” asked a guard over the intercom.
Han Xiao pinched his throat and replied, “Cough, cough. Team C has suffered heavy losses. We have trapped the target inside the lab. The target has been shot. Please send reinforcements quickly!”
He then picked a submachine gun on the floor and casually sprayed it to create the illusion of a fierce battle.
“Roger that. Please hold on. Team B is on the way!”
The guard did not doubt him at all. As Han Xiao's silent act was deeply ingrained in their minds, the idea that he could employ such tactics simply did not occur to them.
Han Xiao proceeded to tie his three remaining hand grenades together and hung them on the door of the laboratory. He then hid behind a desk and loaded three submachine guns before firing his handgun multiple times to create the illusion of a crossfire.
Footsteps approached and the door was kicked opened.
Kaboom!
As soon as the guards began to scream, Han Xiao rushed forward under the cover of the smoke and stuck two S.M.G's out of the door to open fire onto either side. Although vision was limited, Han Xiao could hear his shots landing, and when he had emptied his clip, the guards were no longer making any sound.
The standard tactic to attack a room was for one person to kick the door while the others hid on either side. As the guards in the base were not an elite squad, Han Xiao had known that they would employ this tactic. Although most of Team B had been lucky to survive the first round of grenades, they were unable to hide from the ensuing storm of bullets.
His interface lit up like crazy.
When the smoke cleared, Han Xiao saw that three guards remained. When they saw Han Xiao emerge from the room, their eyes grew wide with shock and fear.
Is this really that dim-witted Zero‽
Han Xiao fired three consecutive shots to finish them off.
“What was that explosion? What's going on‽” Team A's leader shouted through the intercom.
Han Xiao randomly picked up several scattered guns and fired them around casually.
“Team B is under ambush! We are engaged with the enemy in the experiment lab. Requesting assistance! Requesting assistance!”
“Team A is coming right now!” Something seemed off about the entire situation to him, but he could not figure out what.
It was only when they reached basement 3 did the Team A leader finally realize what was bothering him, and he hurriedly ordered, “All guards, listen up. Zero might have infiltrated our comms. From now on, only take orders from me!”
It suddenly became apparent that Zero could be baiting them. After all, they hadn't heard of any other Team B member speaking since then.
An unbelievable notion occurred to the Team A leader; did Zero already wipe out both Team B and Team C?
The notion caused him to shiver.
If that was what had happened, it would mean that Zero had wiped out over half of the entire base's guards alone! Although he was unwilling to believe the idea, everything pointed to the fact that it indeed what had happened!
Was Zero baiting them? Or was he trying to divide them while he made a run for the main gate?
“Team D, any abnormalities at the main gate?” he asked through the intercom.
“None yet.”
The Team A leader sighed a breath of relief. He couldn't let Zero play them for a fool any longer. The situation at present was already extremely bad. He knew that hoping to kill Zero now was no longer realistic, and that he had to inform Hila asap.
“Team A, listen up. Return to the main gate right now!”
He decided it would be better to gather all the remaining people to fortify the main gate. There, they could simply wait for reinforcements. This was the plan that appeared safest and surest to him.
No matter what Zero's aim was, his fate would be sealed as long as he had nowhere to run!
Chapter 10: Night Owl
Translator: M.J_ Editor: Millman97
Team A retraced their steps to join up with Team D at the main gate.
“Teams B and C have most likely been eliminated. I'm going to call for reinforcements. Guard the exit.”
The Team A leader glanced at the present members.
There were 31 of them. With 31 guns directed at the corridor, the second Zero appeared he would be torn to shreds.
However, he suddenly realized that something was off... Hold on a second, shouldn't there only be 30 of us?
Beep beep!
The security panel flashed green as the gates suddenly opened.
As the guards turned back to look, their jaws dropped. There was a man who was wearing the same uniform as them at the gate. The man began to whistle as he pushed his cap up with a finger to reveal his face. It was none other than Han Xiao.
“Bye bye.” He waved before abruptly pulling the manual lever and rolling out as the gate clamped down.
The guards continued staring at the gate in disbelief.
The veins on Team A's leader's temples bulged.
“When did Zero blend in with us‽”
On the other side, Han Xiao rejoiced.
I've finally escaped!
Han Xiao stretched as he basked in the sunlight. The sight of the clear sky seemed to evaporate all his worries. It was roughly 4 or 5 in the afternoon, and Han Xiao could discern the silhouettes of several moons in the sky. Some of them were even close enough for their craters to be observed!
Han Xiao took a deep breath. The crisp air was reinvigorating.
Since the start, Han Xiao had never planned on taking all the guards head-on. Even though the guards had already been weakened, it might not even matter if he were able to kill them all since they could put the entire facility in lockdown at any point!
Then, his expression would not be that much different from the guards on the other side of the gate.
After impersonating a Team B member to bait out Team A, Han Xiao had searched around for a relatively clean set of uniform to change into before concealing himself underneath the stairway.
The guards had failed to notice him joining their ranks as they had been panicking.
As such, Han Xiao was safely 'escorted' to the entrance where, while they let their guard down, he had crept towards the gate, and the rest is now history.
It had been a huge gamble. If anything had gone awry, he would have been torn to shreds by dozens of guns. Han Xiao would rather not have had to rely on this risky plan. However, Baltar had ruined his original plan, leaving him with no choice but to do so. It was a 50/50 all-in gamble, but there was no other choice.
Han Xiao found himself in the middle of an abandoned farm. He noticed the trails of several vehicles and traced them back to a garage where there were several all-terrain vehicles. Conveniently, their keys were all slotted in.
Reinforcements might appear any moment. I need to leave asap.
His escape was far from over. The Organization definitely would not let him off so easily.
Han Xiao threw his backpack into the passenger seat and got into the driver's seat.
He ignited the engine and stepped on the gas pedal, intending to leave immediately. He ran the vehicle over the electric fence and headed into the forest.
As Han Xiao knew nothing about the geography of the area, he would have to bet it all on following one direction.
...
On the Black Harrier helicopter, Hila noticed her phone ringing.
“Who?” she answered, irritated.
“Commander Hila, there's a situation. Zero has gone rogue. He's killed Vice-commander Baltar, Professor Lin Wei Xian, and over 30 guards. He's also destroyed all the Valkyrie records in the base...”
The Team A leader was dispirited. They were definitely going to be punished for having been useless—that went without saying. However, he still had to swallow the bitter pill and contact the commander as they were all trapped and needed someone to deactivate the lockdown.
Hila frowned.
“Are you kidding me? I personally conducted his brainwashing! How could he have survived the procedure? Has he been fooling even me?” she wondered.
Hila immediately contacted the boss to relay the news.
“Turn back right now and give chase,” ordered the boss, enraged.
“But my sister—” Hila began to argue.
“Shut up. You have no right to bargain with me.”
Hila glowered as she reluctantly ordered the pilot, “Return to base!”
“Commander Hila, the helicopter needs to land to refuel first.”
“Step on it.”
The Night Owl Squad had also received the order to return.
No. 1 was livid with rage at the guards' pitiful appearances.
“There are sixty of you and you can't even stop one person! Are there spies here‽”
He was unable to believe that Han Xiao could have escaped alone, not when it was impossible for himself.
The guards were terrified by his accusation. No one dared to betray the organization, and for good reason. However, they were demoralized and unable to talk back. They did secretly hope that Han Xiao could escape as it would help their case.
“That's enough. The boss ordered us to hunt him down,” interrupted Silver Blade coldly.
“Hold on, the test subject team will follow,”
No. 1 was now rattled by Han Xiao's combat prowess, and this frustrated him. He felt like he needed to defeat Han Xiao in order to prove his worth to the organization.
...
Night had fallen, and the night sky was decorated by numerous blue moons.
Each planet in Galaxy had a different kind of landscape and environment. In Han Xiao's previous life, there existed players who specialized in galactic tourism. They would sell albums of beautiful scenery and landscape from across the universe.
Unfortunately, the thick canopy blocked out nearly all the moonlight, making it hard for Han Xiao to see, much less enjoy the night view.
Han Xiao drove carefully, fearful of crashing into a tree. The darkness was extremely disadvantageous for him. Not only was he unable to move quickly, the sound of his engine could also expose his location.
It's really bad to drive at night. I'd better walk.
He stopped the car and turned off the engine, deciding to abandon it.
The silence in the forest began to set in, and he noticed that the shadows around him resembled ghostly figures.
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You have obtained Combat Biscuit x5, Mineral Water x3.
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Han Xiao found some ration and water in the boot of the car. He stored them inside his bag and continued on foot. As he was unable to do anything about the trail that his car had left, he could only change his direction slightly to throw off any pursuers.
The night was his cloak.
Although Han Xiao was completely exhausted, and his stamina was almost depleted, he did not dare to stop for a break.
Suddenly, Han Xiao heard the sound of engines coming from behind. He instantly sought for shelter behind a tree before peeking out to see 3 sets of flickering headlights about 300 meters away.
He was about to creep towards a safer location when suddenly, a gunshot pierced the night.
Han Xiao's danger sense tingled, and he threw himself onto the ground. Something grazed past his shoulder. He turned to see that the bullet had narrowly missed him to pierce a tree ten meters away.
The three vehicles stopped, and 6 men alighted. They were were none other than Night Owl Squad 3. The person who had fired was Silver Blade.
Six Cyclopes‽ Han Xiao was momentarily taken aback by their appearance. Those are night vision goggles!
Han Xiao cursed his luck.
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You have been grazed by an S.W.P sniper rifle! 18 damage taken!
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Holy cow. Even though it was just a graze, it did as much damage as a direct shot from a handgun!
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You have entered combat and gained enemy information!
Night Owl Agent
Lv. 15
Classes: Lv. 10 Agent, Lv. 5 Elite Agent
Stats: 18 S.T.R, 15 D.E.X, 25 End, 10 I.N.T, 3 M.Y.S, 8 C.H.A, 1 L.U.K
Energy: 0
Power Level: 40
Health: 350
Abilities:
Grinder: +100 Health
Pain Tolerance: Combat strength not affected by injury
Skills:
Lv. 4 Basic Combat
Lv. 5 Basic Shooting
Lv. 2 Precise Aim
Lv. 1 Sniper (Leader)
Equipment:
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S.W.P Sniper Rifle (High Caliber)
Grade: Common
Damage: 70 to 88
Fire Rate: 0.5/s
Ammo: 5 bullets per magazine
Power Level: 30
Prerequisite(s): Lv. 1 Sniper
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Thermal Night-vision Goggles
Grade: Common
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73-W.A.S.P Handgun
Grade: Common
Small Caliber Handgun
Damage: 28 to 35
Fire Rate: 1.1/s
Ammo: 10 bullets per magazine
Power Level: 13
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G-Grenade (3)
Deals 50 to 80 damage to all targets in a 20-meter radius. Has a chance to do bonus damage.
Power Level: 45
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Jackson Assault Rifle
Grade: Common
Assault Rifle
Damage: 36 to 42
Fire Rate (manual): 1.5/s
Fire Rate (continuous): 4/s
Maximum Fire Rate (burst): 10/s (3 seconds)
Ammo: 30 bullets per magazine
Power Level: 33
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Lightweight Kevlar Vest
Grade: Common
Defense: 10 to 12
Durability: 50
Metal Alloy Dagger
Grade: Common
Damage: 8 to 12
Length: 0.28m
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All six of them were elite agents, an advanced class. Although they were lower level than Han Xiao, they still had high stats, and were much better equipped.
Han Xiao's face darkened.
Oh boy...