Wow! The item-dropping rate is really high! Chapter 1071 - 729: Ancient Ruins (2)

~6 minute read · 1,544 words
Previously on Wow! The item-dropping rate is really high!...
The squad fights through intense close-quarters combat against the Bug Race within the Traveler. As the data download nears completion, Bai E devises a plan to use the damaged Traveler as a shield and springboard. After initiating a partial restart of the Traveler's propulsion, the squad evacuates onto the Thorny Bird and follows the drifting wreckage, which successfully draws some of the Bug Race's attention, while the vital downloaded data is analyzed.
He paused, then accessed another file labeled "Star Alliance Top Secret/Galactic Strategic Value Assessment," which the "Traveler's" mainframe's remaining decryption modules had painstakingly partially decoded. "Additionally, sir, captain, while we were compiling higher-level briefing summaries received by 'Traveler' as a frontline intelligence and support node for the Star Alliance, we uncovered something... even more astonishing," Ash's voice held a tone of disbelieving shock. "This might possibly elucidate why the Star Alliance's supreme directive mandates defending the Aisera Star System at all costs. Even before our contestant teams arrived, the United Fleet was already heavily engaged in fierce combat with the main forces of the Bug Race." The screen then presented a satellite's scanned image, accompanied by a concise description. It depicted a rocky satellite orbiting Aisera I, designated with the codename "Ancient Bell." Adjacent to the image were brief textual descriptions and several extremely blurred schematic diagrams illustrating the relic's internal structure, appearing as if subjected to multiple layers of encryption and damage. The key excerpts from the text description were highlighted: "...Located approximately 12 kilometers beneath the surface of the 'Ancient Bell' satellite, a large-scale relic of an ancient civilization, not of human nor Bug Race origin, has been confirmed. The relic remains relatively intact, with its construction materials exhibiting a 'phase shift' state that defies conventional physical properties, rendering it inert to most detection methods. An unusually stable high-dimensional energy field has been detected within, along with... a suspected dormant or awaiting activation unknown technological creation." "Initial archaeological and high-dimensional physics analyses suggest that this civilization's technological framework fundamentally diverges from the current Star Alliance perception systems, potentially involving direct matter-energy-information conversion, localized spacetime manipulation, and a more profound utilization of the essence of Spiritual Energy. The Star Alliance's premier academy, through its 'Trace' project team, has been secretly conducting research here for over thirty-seven standard years. Progress has been slow, yet some 'defensive' functions of peripheral facilities have been confirmed to be minimally activatable under specific conditions." "Strategic Evaluation: The technological potential embodied within this relic, particularly its defense or offensive capabilities that may surpass current Star Alliance standards, is assessed as possessing 'civilization-level' strategic importance. Should it be compromised, contaminated, or reverse-engineered by the Bug Race, the repercussions would be beyond comprehension. Consequently, the Aisera Star System, and specifically the 'Ancient Bell' satellite, must be held resolutely. This constitutes an S-level directive from the highest security council of the Star Alliance." Following this, the data included several fragmented observation records or research notes from various periods, all filled with bewilderment and awe: "They appear to be... 'dead,' yet not entirely so. As if awaiting a specific 'key' or 'command.'" "The energy response signature defies categorization; it is neither Spiritual Energy nor pure physics, resembling more a... solidified 'rule' or 'concept.'" "Attempts at physical contact or energy infusion have proven ineffective; the relic's surface actively 'absorbs' or 'shifts' any external force attempting to alter its state. The sole limited interaction observed involves the faint activation of certain facilities, seemingly triggered by specific frequency Spiritual Energy resonance..." "Warning: The seventh attempt to activate the peripheral 'Automatic Defense Array' (tentative designation) resulted in failure and an unknown energy backlash, causing permanent Spiritual Energy damage to three researchers. The project's risk assessment has been escalated." Upon reviewing this information, Catherine, along with others and technical personnel monitoring through internal channels at their respective stations, lapsed into a brief silence. "'Ancient Bell' satellite... ancient technology research hub..." Bai E murmured quietly, turning to Catherine. "Have you ever encountered anything similar before?" Catherine's brow furrowed deeply as she slowly shook her head. "The Star Alliance governs a vast territory; discovering relics of ancient civilizations is not uncommon. However, for one to be classified as an S-level strategic secret, potentially impacting the defense decisions for an entire star system... that is rare. Based on these incomplete descriptions, the technological level of the 'Ancient Bell' relic is likely far beyond our current comprehension. It's no wonder the Star Alliance places such immense value upon it."

She paused and added, "Based on the prior draw outcomes, the World of Forge Alliance's team is currently executing the 'Echo' operation. Their specialty lies in technological decryption, making this task allocation quite fitting. However... considering the 'Traveler's' report, the Star Alliance's research progress over the years has been slow; it's uncertain if they can achieve any breakthroughs with the Bug Race threat looming."

"Regarding the 'Ancient Bell' relic, ensure all related data is encrypted and archived as top-secret information."

Bai E's voice came through the communication line, issuing instructions calmly. "For the present moment, our main objective is the 'Main Nest Prototype' located on Jade Stone Star. Nevertheless, this intelligence is crucial as it illuminates the conflict's deeper context and implies this star system's war may be far more intricate than initially perceived. In the future, should circumstances permit, or if an opportunity arises... we might consider investigating the status of the 'Ancient Bell' satellite."

He deliberately placed emphasis on the phrase "if circumstances permit."

Bai E was acutely aware that New Bauhinia's current capabilities were limited, and the paramount goal was to accomplish his exceedingly difficult mission.

The enigma of the ancient relic was a concern for the Star Alliance and the World of Forge Alliance to contend with.

Yet, for reasons unknown, Bai E harbored a subtle premonition that the document's description of the relic's technology—possessing "unconventional physical properties" and "solidified laws," alongside its resistance to activation or influence by conventional means—might... one day become an unforeseen factor when faced with an insurmountable dilemma using current assets.

This was merely an ephemeral flash of intuition; he committed it to memory, cataloging it as a potential consideration among numerous strategic possibilities.

"Understood," Catherine responded, immediately relaying her orders. "Ash, proceed with compiling the remaining tactical data, with particular focus on detailed oceanic charts of Jade Stone Star and projections regarding potential underwater Bug Race units. Comprehensive preparation is essential for the second phase of our operation."

"Acknowledged!"

The journey persisted, enveloped in quiet vigilance.

The derelict remains of the 'Traveler,' akin to a fallen pioneer, drew significant fire from the Bug Race, carving a strange, descending path through the cosmos towards Jade Stone Star.

Simultaneously, the 'Thorny Bird,' much like a stealthy assassin, skillfully exploited the cosmic dust, scattered debris, and the lingering spiritual energy disturbances and aftershocks from the 'Traveler's' engagement, staying in close pursuit.

During this passage, they successfully evaded two small Bug Race patrols and observed intense combat erupting in distant sectors of the starfield—

These engagements could have involved other competing teams battling the Bug Race or desperate last stands by remnants of the Star Alliance forces.

Through the observation viewport, the silhouette of Jade Stone Star, veiled in its blue atmosphere, progressively grew larger.

Equally alarming was the expansion of the dark purple, fungal-blanket-like patches marring the planet's surface, resembling festering wounds, and the intermittent atmospheric explosions.

In orbit, further wreckage of human warships and fragmented Bug Race biological matter drifted silently, stark testaments to the brutal offense and defense actions that had previously transpired.

"We are entering Jade Stone Star's gravitational influence zone."

Catherine reported, "The final trajectory calculation for the 'Traveler's' crash is complete. It's projected to impact a vast ocean expanse in the southern hemisphere, likely triggering tsunamis and significant environmental disruption, which could draw increased Bug Race attention. We must disengage before its impact and identify a secure entry point and landing site."

"According to the 'Traveler's' data, the target continental shelf region is situated within the temperate oceanic zone of the northern hemisphere, identified as the 'CT-7' trench."

Bai E accessed detailed nautical charts, synchronized with the mecha's tactical computer. "The water depth there ranges from approximately 4500 to 5200 meters. The seabed is characterized by a complex terrain featuring hydrothermal vents and active geological phenomena. The Bug Race's selection of this location for their 'Main Nest Prototype' likely stems from its potential for geothermal energy utilization and the challenging environment offering natural concealment."

He swiftly issued updated directives: "Catherine, identify a location in the northern hemisphere suitably distant from major fungal blanket formations, possessing adequate deep-water access to serve as a temporary concealment zone and underwater operational launch point for the 'Thorny Bird.' The chaos precipitated by the 'Traveler's' crash will divert the attention of Bug Race forces in the southern hemisphere, affording us the necessary time."

"Second group, conduct a final inspection of the mechas' underwater modules, life support, and weaponry. As per the adjusted first phase directive, your mission is to provide cover for the 'Thorny Bird' during its dive and concealment, then swiftly transition to preparing for the second phase of our deep-sea operations."

"First and third groups, following the 'Thorny Bird's' successful concealment, your responsibility will be to establish temporary defensive positions. Maintain vigilance against orbital and aerial threats, secure the evacuation routes, and remain prepared for any emergent circumstances."

"Understood!" The assembled group members affirmed in unison.