Translator: CinderTL
Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!
In the Radiant Light Secret Realm, the inverted golden pyramid loomed majestically, suspended amidst the swirling clouds.
Below, the sprawling city lay shrouded in a vast shadow, as aircraft streaked across the sky, patrolling and maintaining vigilance.
"First position: clear!"
"Second position: clear!"
Continuous reports crackled through the communication module. A blue light shield, as vast as the sky, enveloped the pyramid and the surrounding cloud layer like a transparent amber dome.
Silver-gray anti-gravity devices hovered within the shield, each carrying elite squads of Modified Humans and Cyborgs armed with electromagnetic weapons, their gazes scanning left and right.
The sole entrance to the pyramid was heavily guarded by two Suppression-Type Warships, their blazing energy main cannons charged and ready to fire at a moment's notice.
This unprecedented level of security drew intense scrutiny from Radiant Light City. Countless eyes converged, speculating on what had been discovered during the initial exploration that warranted such an overwhelming display of force.
Amidst the swirling curiosity and conjecture, at the heart of the floating light shield, near the observation post closest to the pyramid:
Tap-tap!
Leather boots clicked against the ground as a low, urgent voice approached.
"Report, Representative!"
"Major General Chen has rendezvoused with the delegation and is about to depart!"
The senior military officer, dressed in camouflage fatigues, stood at attention. Xia Mingyuan, at the forefront, heard the report clearly and finally withdrew his gaze from the pyramid.
"They've already set off?" he murmured, his voice tinged with emotion. The collar of his black Tang suit was fastened tightly.
This mission to the Platinum Federation appeared routine on the surface.
But Xia Mingyuan knew that the stakes were far higher than ever before.
This marked the Red Nation's first time adopting such an assertive stance, flexing its diplomatic muscle in the federation.
The eyes of the entire Earth were focused on this mission, and its outcome would have profound and far-reaching consequences.
In that instant, a thought flashed through his mind.
Facing the complex gazes of the core leadership behind him, Xia Mingyuan finally nodded and spoke.
"Since our warriors fear neither life nor death, we must not leave them isolated, unsupported, or burdened by our own hesitations."
"Issue the orders."
His gaze deepened, and for a rare moment, a bright anticipation flickered across his middle-aged, dignified face.
It was a vision of hope and blessings for the delegation, and also the emboldened confidence born from securing cooperation on the civilization ruins.
"The aircraft carriers along the Yun Port coast, the warships in the Great Ocean..."
"It's time they moved."
Buzz!
A white wave of vapor lingered in the air, its form unwavering, as three silver-gray streaks of light slashed across the sky.
Below, in the city, countless figures tilted their heads to watch the spectacle. Within Tian Hao Security, young personnel smiled knowingly.
"That guy's always showing off," one of them muttered, his face a mixture of anticipation and suppressed worry.
Silent blessings for their safety filled the air as countless eyes followed the departing aircraft.
Whoosh!
The three aircraft rapidly gained altitude, piercing through the cloud layer.
The earth and city below vanished from sight. Chen Feng, seated in a metal chair by the window, slowly withdrew his gaze.
"This is quite the send-off. So many people seeing you off," Star Spirit murmured in his mind, simultaneously manipulating electromagnetic waves to reinforce her protective systems.
Chen Feng didn't deny her words, focusing instead on calming his inner turmoil and suppressing his surging emotions.
The trip to the federation had been long planned.
Though Xia Mingyuan had warned that Divine Generals might be monitoring them as a precaution, no one could guarantee their safety.
He could feel the genuine concern and blessings for his safety from Liu Duanyun and the others.
Yet, with his gaze now completely calm, Chen Feng turned to observe the others in the cabin.
Chairman Li Yun and Han Chao were both present, representing Nanjiang on this diplomatic mission.
Despite being ordinary humans, neither showed the slightest trace of fear or apprehension.
How could he possibly be inferior to them, or fear any danger?
"Our negotiation venue is Black Harbor City, a port city in the southern part of the Federation," Chairman Li Yun announced with a smile. An assistant behind him produced documents, explaining the details to the others.
Excluding security personnel, the core delegation consisted of twelve members, mostly from Red City, dispersed across different aircraft. These included key councilors from the General Federation and high-level representatives overseeing foreign affairs.
After brief introductions, Chen Feng exchanged polite greetings with the others in the cabin. Finally, his gaze shifted to a familiar face.
Long, tousled hair framed a face that looked to be in his early twenties. He wore a white Flying General Combat Suit with crimson patterns, the sword-and-shield crystal emblem on his left chest gleaming brightly, occasionally reflecting sunlight from the window.
"This mission may carry some risks," Chairman Li Yun said with a smile, settling into a window seat and initiating conversation. "The Royal City Flying General has completed his new legendary transformation and is highly reliable. Upon our arrival in the Federation, I trust you both will remain vigilant, just in case."
The accompanying secretary and assistant served coffee and tea. Chen Feng nodded in acknowledgment, accepting a cup, and finally met Wang Cheng's gaze across the cabin.
"Old Man Xia tried to keep it from me, refusing to say who it was."
"But you're alright. You're more reliable than the others."
Wang Cheng ordered a cola with ice, while one of his Flying General subordinates held his gaming tablet behind him.
His tone remained as casual and carefree as ever.
Chen Feng didn't mind, merely glancing at the blue light patterns on Wang Cheng's left cheek.
Through his Perception, he could sense the man's consciousness blazing like a scorching sun, far surpassing the level he had sensed during their previous encounter.
Combined with Chairman Li Yun's earlier remark...
"Congratulations," Chen Feng said calmly, his suspicions now confirmed.
The Red Nation had indeed achieved the second stage of legendary transformation.
No longer just theoretical, they had successfully implemented it, transforming it into individual power.
"Oh?" Wang Cheng paused, feigning surprise.
Then, remembering Chen Feng's sharp Perception, he chuckled.
"That blabbermouth Old Man Li can't keep anything to himself."
"Still, thanks."
He accepted Chen Feng's congratulations with a grin, while Chairman Li Yun pretended not to hear the disrespectful nickname.
The two men used the opportunity to engage in casual conversation.
Before this, they had fought side-by-side twice—once in Suojia City and again during the Nanjiang Black Tide—enough to consider themselves acquainted.
The atmosphere remained cordial, and Chen Feng seized the opportunity to ask a question that had been on his mind.
"I've heard that after the second stage of the legendary transformation, legendary consciousness gains a form of immortality."
"If I'm not mistaken, you must have more than just this body, right?"
The Star Spirit had previously explained that second-stage legendary cyborgs possess multiple backup bodies. This allows them to project their consciousness across vast distances and dominate various regions. Given the unpredictable dangers of their mission to the federation, Chen Feng couldn't believe Wang Cheng hadn't prepared contingencies.
Wang Cheng gave Chen Feng a deep, appraising look. After a moment of silence, he surprisingly didn't press him about how he had learned this.
"That's correct," he admitted, setting down his glass of iced cola. "This body is indeed just one of many."
"But rest assured, I won't abandon you all or become a deserter," Wang Cheng said earnestly, his tone sincere. He clearly misunderstood Chen Feng's meaning.
Sensing the weight of Wang Cheng's commitment, Chen Feng nodded lightly and ended the conversation without further explanation.
"Then let's hope for a successful mission," he said solemnly. Wang Cheng nodded in agreement.
The cabin fell silent again, broken only by the occasional rustle of documents as members of the delegation reviewed files and discussed strategies.
As the group left the Red Nation's border, Wang Cheng soon put on his headphones, took a tablet from his assistant, and immersed himself in a game.
"This guy really has a big heart," Star Spirit remarked in Chen Feng's mind, clicking her tongue in amazement.
Chen Feng shook his head. Everyone had their own way of managing their emotions; he saw nothing wrong with it.
In contrast, he closed his eyes briefly and reactivated his mental link.
He saw Gata and the other Mermen's Soul Flames, as well as the boundless Ghostly Blue depths of the Deep Sea.
I wonder how the windrider's search is progressing, he thought.
Splash!
Waves crashed against coastal reefs, the spray evaporating rapidly under the sunlight.
As if sensing a colossal presence in the depths, white seagulls that had been diving to catch fish suddenly took flight in alarm.
Farther out, warships docked at the coastal harbor remained stationary, paying no heed to the commotion.
Deeper within the city, most residents remained oblivious, going about their daily routines. Only when passing a certain manor villa did their expressions shift, revealing a mixture of awe and envy.
"Miss, the Red Nation's delegation is arriving soon."
A stern voice echoed through the Roth Family estate, drawing the residents' gazes away from the windows.
Ouna had long grown accustomed to the envy and awe of the federal citizens, finding their humble existence as insignificant as dust. Such sentiments held no interest for her.
In contrast, the delegation from the Red Nation...
"What time are they expected to arrive?"
Ouna turned to address the loyal security personnel. The aloof indifference in her eyes softened slightly, replaced by a hint of seriousness.
"Around ten o'clock, ma'am."
"The foreign affairs bureau has already dispatched representatives to the designated meeting point, preparing to greet them at the port customs."
The white-skinned security personnel swiftly reported the details. Ouna narrowed her eyes thoughtfully before turning to the silent middle-aged man beside her.
"Uncle Longjia, what do you think?"
"Their sole purpose is to retrieve Han Mingchuan. We simply need to handle this matter accordingly."
"Given your past conflict with that Martial Artist, it's best you avoid further public appearances."
Longjia, a legendary-grade mech warrior, spoke earnestly, his amber eyes gleaming like polished gemstones.
Ouna understood his meaning. Logic dictated that she should avoid direct involvement in this polarized conflict to prevent being manipulated.
Yet...
The thought of that Martial Artist stirred lingering resentment within her.
"He slaughtered so many members of the Roth Family."
"Are we just going to let him go?"
Amon and Milan's deaths had long been confirmed through other channels. Combined with the internal strife in Niduo, their traces were pinpointed, leading to the suspicion that they were connected.
This was a disgrace to the Roth Family.
Even though Ouna had benefited from this, solidifying her position in the line of succession, it couldn't erase the resentment of having once been ignored.
"No, we can't let him off too easily."
Longjia, the legendary modified human known as a legendary-grade mech warrior, shook his head and lowered his voice.
"Master Velatu's Source Consciousness hasn't fully recovered yet. He won't forget this grudge."
"Moreover, as the family's foundation, no one can stop his decision."
As his words fell, Ouna's gaze sharpened.
Her tightly furrowed brow relaxed, and she felt the pent-up anger in her heart about to burst forth.
Even more, a crucial thought sparked in her mind.
The Niduo Royal Family's defection had enraged the federal council, especially after the investigation bureau and Military's assassination attempts failed, sparking endless debate.
If that Martial Artist was so fond of meddling, then it stood to reason...
"Heh."
A cold smile crept across Ouna's face as she looked out the window again.
High above, the cloud layer resembled a patchwork quilt as a federal military aircraft carrier slowly approached from the sea.
The port bustled with its usual activity, coastal cargo containers piled high like mountains, showcasing the grandeur of the south's largest city.
For now, no one could know.
A black raven descended from the sky, landing atop a towering skyscraper.
The second hand of a massive clock swung around, its crimson vertical pupils reflecting the world, dyeing everything within its gaze a blood-red hue.
Buzz!
The cloud layer rippled as the red maple aircraft began its descent.
Chen Feng severed the mental link to the Deep Sea, where Gata and the Mermen were still searching for the world ark deep beneath the Platinum Federation's coastline.
"They should be close now."
Undeterred, Chen Feng had already received Gata's report through the Soul Flame.
Most of the area had been searched, leaving only the federation's southern coast unexplored. At this rate, results might be imminent within the next few days.
Whoosh!
Chen Feng calmed his mind, suppressing his impatience.
After a brief exchange with the Star Spirit, she retracted her electromagnetic fluctuations and activated a higher-level stealth protocol.
"The Platinum Federation's Sky Eye System is highly advanced, especially in the port defense areas."
"I'll remain hidden for now."
With those words, the Star Spirit vanished from his mind.
Chen Feng nodded silently, gazing out the cabin window.
They had been flying over the Great Ocean for hours, traversing over ten thousand kilometers.
Now, in the distance, the azure sea stretched out below, white mist drifting across its surface, and seagulls soared through the air.
The scorching red sun climbed higher in the sky. Due to the time difference with the Red Nation, it should have been approaching evening, but here it was still mid-morning.
"We're almost there," Han Chao said softly, appearing beside them as if from nowhere, reminding the group.
Becoming Nanjiang's military representative had been his own initiative, which had secured him this opportunity to travel.
As if to confirm his words, the mist over the distant sea suddenly dissipated, revealing the landscape beyond.
A vast continent stretched across the ocean, dotted with white-gray cargo ships sailing past, unloading red and blue container boxes.
Five federation warships, each a menacing hundred meters long, patrolled the harbor, their hulls gleaming with vigilance.
At the center of the formation, the aircraft carrier loomed like a steel behemoth, fighter jets periodically taking off and landing on its deck.
The golden Flying Eagle emblem and military flags stood out sharply against the backdrop of the bustling port city, where buildings of all shapes and sizes crowded together.
There were coastal villas and estates, as well as futuristic skyscrapers with floor-to-ceiling windows.
Neon projections rippled beneath the wakes of Flying Cars like ocean waves, while layered anti-gravity staircases crisscrossed the mid-air, forming a city within a city.
In that instant, the entire delegation froze. Even Wang Cheng, who had been wearing headphones the entire time, lowered his gaming tablet and looked out the window at the breathtaking sight.
"We've arrived," he murmured, as the Sixth-Tier Flying Generals accompanying him relaxed, their faces gradually hardening with seriousness.
This was the Western Continent.
They had long since left the Red Nation and now faced the continent's dominant civilization alone.
A heavy silence settled over the cabin. Despite the mental preparation they had undergone before the journey, most of the occupants felt a growing sense of unease.
Noticing their subtle shift in mood, Chairman Li Yun opened his mouth to speak.
He had rehearsed countless words of encouragement and reassurance, but none seemed quite right in this moment.
Finally, a middle-aged man from the Military spoke up, exhaling a long breath.
"We've finally arrived, huh?"
"I've been itching to see where those pampered brats from the federation live. Today, I finally get my wish."
"Honestly, this trip was worth it just for that, Old Zhao!"
The words hung in the air, startling everyone.
Chairman Li Yun stared blankly for a moment before realizing the atmosphere had lightened. Similar remarks began to ripple through the cabin.
"Heh, you know what? That golden eagle emblem of the federation really does look like a dumb bird."
"Ha ha ha, Lao Xu, I never knew you could be so crude!"
"What's wrong with that? We've been itching to tear those federation bastards apart for ages!"
"Exactly! We're already here, so we can't let our descendants down!"
One by one, the impeccably dressed members of the delegation chuckled and teased each other, instantly dispelling the tense atmosphere and replacing it with lively camaraderie.
It was true that they harbored some apprehension, even unease in this unfamiliar environment.
But having chosen to set foot here and project the Red Nation's unwavering resolve, they had naturally cast aside all reservations.
Witnessing this scene, Chairman Li Yun felt a sudden, inexplicable emotion stir within him.
"Old Li, relax a bit," one of the delegation's senior members said with a smile, turning to reassure him. "Do you really think we're still young pups?"
A wry smile tugged at Chairman Li Yun's aged face as he shook his head. He opened his mouth to reply, but a hand clapped him on the shoulder.
"Old Man Li, don't worry."
Wang Cheng, still wearing his headset, had risen to his feet. His gaze, filled with unwavering confidence, fixed on the cityscape looming outside the window.
"I'll bring you all back safely."
The smiles on the faces of the delegation members froze.
A sense of relief and anticipation settled over them as their gazes instinctively shifted, including Wang Cheng's, to Chen Feng.
Their eyes met, acknowledging the gravity of the moment.
After a moment of silence, Chen Feng stood with his arms crossed, his gaze sweeping past the crowd to survey the rapidly approaching port city.
"Go ahead and do what you need to do."
"Leave everything else to me."
(End of the Chapter)
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