The Curtain Rises

"Though this isn't my first time seeing it, I have to give you credit for turning that mess of parts into such a well-proportioned design!"

Standing at the feet of the "Orca," Feng Xue gazed up at the machine, which could only be described as broad-shouldered and narrow-waisted, and looked quite pleased.

At this rare praise from Feng Xue, Mang Ke immediately planted her hands on her hips and tilted her nose toward the sky.

"Machine design is my specialty! And whether it's adding Electromagnetic Muscle Bundles or hydraulic pressure-boosting systems, I've left plenty of room for upgrades. Even if we replace the frame, this outer armor can still be used as long as the cockpit layout stays the same. Of course, if you can get your hands on better alloys or armor technology, replacing it isn't out of the question."

That was right. Although the machine had been built with the intention of using it once and then scrapping it, after finishing the frame, Mang Ke had still made a set of outer armor from composite ceramic coated in Titanium Alloy.

The machine itself had the peculiar look of a Baki-style physique: broad shoulders, thick arms, and a slim waist. If the big guy saw it, he might well say something like, "I've never seen a wrestler this scrawny."

"Have you topped up the fuel?" Feng Xue put a hand on the machine's knee and flipped up to the cockpit in one smooth motion. He released the safety latch, and the machine's head and chest armor shifted, exposing the cramped cockpit.

"The fuel from Bailin Country is much better than I expected. Two fuel rods will keep it running for 72 hours."

Mang Ke stood at the maintenance platform beside him, calibrating the machine from the outside while Feng