Apocalypse Gachapon Chapter 2042: Mountain Fury
Previously on Apocalypse Gachapon...
Both mechanical combat beasts and organic combat beasts possessed their own distinct advantages. When selecting organic combat beasts, individuals typically had clear objectives in mind, with the intended purpose dictating the specific type of beast chosen. These defined goals allowed for a clear demonstration of their utility, and furthermore, the growth trajectory of organic combat beasts was generally predictable, fostering a sense of continuous anticipation. After all, combat beasts, much like the various races found throughout the cosmos, were living entities capable of evolving throughout their entire existence. In terms of synergy, if a master and their combat beast shared a profound understanding, their combined strength would invariably increase over the duration of their contract. Should fortune favor them and no unforeseen calamities befall either party, it was even possible for them to live out their days together, evolving from mere master and pet into a true family unit.
Mechanical combat beasts, however, operated on a different principle. Their inherent abilities were fixed from the outset, offering limited customization options. Due to the rarity of such combat devices, which were essentially a patented specialty of the Talos Red Dwarves, users were generally limited to what the manufacturers produced. This stood in contrast to organic combat beasts, which presented a vast array of variations. Simultaneously, once manufactured, the combat prowess of a mechanical combat beast was essentially finalized, with minimal potential for subsequent upgrades. The primary advantage, however, was the immediate boost to combat strength upon acquisition, something organic combat beasts could not initially match. For races that predominantly relied on their inherent combat capabilities, such devices might not hold significant importance. Yet, within the Su Race present, the situation was evidently different. Upon obtaining one, their strength would undoubtedly soar. One only needed to observe the current expressions of these individuals.
"A mechanical combat beast, the 'Mountain Rage'!"
Despite having witnessed it before, a flicker of longing still appeared in Kanagu's eyes. "This is the most magnificent and formidable mechanical combat beast I have ever laid eyes upon," Kanagu declared initially, before continuing, "The Mountain Rage measures thirteen meters in length, stands seven meters tall at its highest point, and possesses a width of three meters. The primary material comprising its entire structure is 'Deer Night Crystal'—yes, that exceedingly rare Deer Night Crystal, which is yielded only in meager quantities by Deer Night Beasts. Its inherent sturdiness is beyond question; more importantly, it possesses the remarkable ability to self-repair within a specified timeframe after sustaining damage. This implies that, as long as the primary chassis remains intact, this mechanical combat beast will endure indefinitely."
A collective gasp of astonishment rippled through the onlookers. It was no wonder this mechanical war beast exuded such a crystalline appearance; it was fashioned from a self-regenerating material. Concurrently, one couldn't help but marvel at the sheer scale of the Taros Red Dwarves' undertaking. It was likely that only they possessed the capacity to procure such vast quantities of Deer Night Crystal and then utilize it to forge mechanical war beasts, rather than crafting the protective gear for which this material was most suitably employed.
"Firstly, all mechanical war beasts are capable of being ridden, and the Mountain Rage is no exception. It can accommodate up to four individuals within its interior."
Kanagu proceeded to unveil the cockpit of the Mountain Rage, revealing to the assembled crowd that within this imposing 'automaton,' seating was strategically placed below the neck, at the hip area, and on either side of the abdomen.
"However, when individuals are situated inside, the mechanical war beast can be operated manually. The front and rear positions are designated for controlling offensive actions, while the middle positions are responsible for managing movement. Naturally, manual operation results in somewhat unrefined coordination; achieving optimal results necessitates extensive practice."
Everyone present, with the sole exception of Ye Zhongming, grasped this concept immediately. In reality, mechanical war beasts were seldom operated manually, as even with superb coordination among multiple individuals, they could not rival the efficiency of an integrated control system. The internal seating arrangements were, therefore, far more conducive to being passengers.
"Much like the majority of mechanical war beasts, the Mountain Rage's entire body functions as an arsenal of weaponry. Its teeth, claws, and tail are all viable components for offensive maneuvers. The head, in particular, features reinforced plating, making it exceptionally suited for charging and ramming attacks."
As Kanagu expounded, his hand gestured habitually towards various parts of the Mountain Rage's anatomy.
"Furthermore, the Mountain Rage's offensive capabilities are concentrated in its eyes, mouth, the flanks of its abdomen, and its mechanical legs."
Kana Gu initiated his description with the eyes: "The eyes are capable of emitting twin beams of frigid energy, each sustaining a duration of ten seconds. These rays possess extremely low temperatures and are devastatingly powerful, with an effective range of fifteen meters. The device can unleash these beams up to three times consecutively. The energy source for this function is the 'Heart Fire Furnace Stone.'"
"There are two distinct modes of attack originating from the mouth. The first, designated as 'Glimmer Motion,' is directly influenced by the controller's input. It functions as an amplification device for mental shockwaves, expanding the area of impact while preserving the intensity of the effect."
Upon hearing this, Ye Zhongming's eyebrows lifted slightly.
"The second mode is dubbed 'Burning Mountain.' This capability allows the beast to expel a fan-shaped torrent of flames from its mouth, characterized by intense heat and corrosive flame poison. This fiery exhalation can persist for up to 30 seconds, extending its reach to a maximum radius of 30 meters. The energy required for this potent assault is supplied by the 'Scorching Flame Liquid.'"
The abdomen on both sides, it was revealed, could deploy four energy guns during combat. These weapons were capable of attacking both forward and backward directions with a range of 200 meters. Their firing speed was extremely rapid, and at maximum power, they could sustain fire for a full ten minutes. The energy required for replenishment was identified as 'Moonspan Gold.'
Furthermore, integrated into the mechanical legs were 'Cyclone Blades.' These could be activated as needed, projecting outwards to defend both flanks of the body while simultaneously unleashing indiscriminate attacks on any targets within a two-meter radius.
The entire energy support system for Mountain Rage relied on Moonspan Gold. In a state of full combat readiness, the consumption rate was established at one thousand units every twenty minutes.
A collective frown settled upon the listeners' faces upon hearing this; the contraption appeared to be quite the expense. It was projected to consume three thousand Moonspan Gold per hour, and this figure did not even account for the specialized energy sources required for certain attacks, such as Heart Fire Furnace Stone and Scorching Flame Liquid.
Truly, this mechanical beast was a significant drain on resources.
"Is that all?" inquired the heir of the Su Clan, his tone betraying a hint of skepticism.
He couldn't deny the impressive nature of the abilities presented. However, if this constituted the entirety of its capabilities, it would likely only qualify for the Red Condensation-grade, wouldn't it?
"Naturally, there is more," Kanagu replied with a smile. "Mountain Rage, as the name suggests. This monster possesses the capacity to activate its Mountain Rage state when the situation demands."
"The energy consumption during this state would more than triple, escalating to a staggering ten thousand Moonspan Gold per hour."
There was palpable dissatisfaction among the audience regarding the presenter's tactic of revealing the cost before detailing the enhanced capabilities.
Kanagu, observing this, continued with a knowing smile. "In the Mountain Rage state, the combat power of the mechanical war beast would be instantly amplified, doubling all attributes and causing the previously detailed abilities to evolve. The duration of the cold rays would be extended twofold, and their range similarly increased. The Glimmer Motion's influence radius would expand to a 180-degree assault. Burning Mountain would transform into a devastating fireball attack, maintaining its form for one minute. Throughout this period, it could continuously unleash fireballs, each with a three-meter diameter and a maximum attack range of one hundred meters. Upon reaching their maximum distance or upon being intercepted, these fireballs would detonate with a powerful explosion."
"The energy guns would upgrade into formidable energy cannons. While the shooting speed and range would remain unchanged, their destructive power would be doubled. The Cyclone Blades would project blade auras, thereby extending the attack radius from the prior two meters to a more substantial four meters."
Only after this comprehensive explanation were the various primary functions of this remarkable mechanical war beast fully elucidated. As for the finer intricacies, it was implied that the eventual owner would need to embark on a journey of discovery to fully understand and exploit them.
Upon absorbing this information, Ye Zhongming felt a profound sense of awe. The technological prowess of the Taros Red Dwarves was undeniably remarkable. The creation of mechanical war beasts, he mused, was leagues beyond the crafting of mere weapons and equipment; it necessitated an immense breadth of knowledge and a level of technological advancement far beyond his current reach.
"The price!"
The heir of the Su Clan, his anticipation now reaching a fever pitch, was already clamoring for the cost.