Chapter 244: Chapter 244: No Stranger to Strong Rivals
"Lord Feng Mo, I understand you have a long-standing feud with the New Humanity Church. Revenge is understandable, and the Star Giants have no grievances with that. However, may I ask the purpose of your visit here?"
Feng Mo chuckled at the Giant King's diplomatic approach. The king was cleverly affirming Feng Mo's right to vengeance while also questioning his intentions, hoping to subtly dissuade Feng Mo from pressing further into the Lihuang Sector.
"King of the Giants, my purpose here is straightforward: I ask that the Star Giants submit to the Storm Empire. In return, I will share T6 starship blueprints with your people and grant you authority over the Lihuang Sector. Your people can continue their way of life here, and you may still lead and protect them. Your only commitment would be to assist the Storm Empire when called upon. Of course, such assistance would be compensated according to your contribution. Joining the Storm Empire has many benefits. You may know I designed the T6 starships, and with time, T7 and T8 are within reach. Imagine the new heights the Star Giants could achieve under your leadership."
Feng Mo spoke earnestly, preferring diplomacy over conflict. But he wasn't naive enough to think a few words would sway the Star Giants. He presented the potential benefits transparently, trusting the Giant King to see reason.
The Giant King pondered for a long while before replying, "Lord Feng Mo, your offer is truly tempting for my people. However, we have always cherished our independence and are not inclined to join any faction. I ask for your understanding."
With that, the Giant King stood up and offered a slight bow. Feng Mo recalled his research on the Star Giants before entering the Lihuang Sector: their king was traditionally the strongest warrior of the tribe, who gained his title by challenging and defeating the previous king. Feng Mo decided to use this custom to his advantage.
"I understand that in the Star Giants' tradition, a new king must prove his worth in a challenge. Might I, too, have the chance to challenge you, King of the Giants? We can settle this between us, no starships or mechs involved. What do you say? Or perhaps... are you afraid?"
A transparent taunt, but it struck a nerve with the Giant King. Feng Mo was offering him a way out: a fair duel, where if he won, he would keep his freedom, but if he lost, he'd submit to the Storm Empire—and gain access to T6 blueprints. It was an appealing prospect.
"Very well! Lord Feng Mo, I accept. I will arrange a platform at the giant starport on our main planet. I look forward to this match!"
Once the video call ended, Feng Mo turned to Xing Shuwen and said, "Let's go. It's time to meet this Giant King."
Xing Shuwen, however, voiced her concerns. "My lord, I've heard of the Star Giants' incredible strength from my time in the Stellar Empire. They're masters of close combat, and you're a Level 4 genetic warrior facing a Level 5 at his peak. You may not have a fair chance."
Feng Mo smiled confidently. "Humans have survived in the cosmos not just by muscle but by wit."
With the fleet traveling in synchronized hyperspace mode, they reached the Giant's main planet within minutes.
"Feng Xian, assemble a team of mechs to accompany me. Everyone else, remain on standby and ready for any contingency."
Moments later, Feng Mo and his team, including Xing Shuwen and ten armored troopers, descended from the Vermilion Ape to the starport platform on the Giant planet. Awaiting them was the Giant King himself, flanked by his council.
As Feng Mo arrived, the Giant King, Toth, burst into laughter, looking up at the Vermilion Ape with a glint of admiration. "Welcome, Lord Feng Mo, to the land of the Star Giants. Toth, King of the Giants, along with my council, greets you warmly."
Standing five meters tall in a sturdy combat outfit that left his thick, muscular limbs exposed, the Giant King made an imposing figure. Feng Mo noted that Toth's thigh was nearly as thick as his own waist, a testament to the giant's raw power. However, Feng Mo had no intention of engaging him in pure hand-to-hand combat, finding a way to level the playing field.
Without ceremony, Feng Mo said, "Toth, save the pleasantries for after the fight. Take me to the platform."
Hearing Feng Mo's direct words, Toth's smile faded, replaced by a fierce focus. He gave a nod. "Then follow me, Lord Feng Mo."
As they walked, Toth introduced Feng Mo to the customs and history of the Star Giants, perhaps laying the groundwork for a future alliance. After a ten-minute walk, they reached an open field where a massive arena awaited them—a structure reminiscent of a boxing ring from Feng Mo's former life, though far larger.
Toth stepped onto the platform, armed with a massive shield and a spear. As he stood there, his entire demeanor transformed into that of a ferocious warrior. Feng Mo admired the stark contrast between the hospitable leader and the relentless fighter, recognizing Toth as a worthy adversary.
As he eyed the towering ring, Feng Mo bent his knees slightly, then leapt ten meters into the air, landing on the platform as lightly as a feather.
"Just to be clear, I'm a Level 4 genetic warrior, while you are at Level 5. A close-combat match seems rather one-sided. Human technology includes combat armor distinct from starships or mechs. Would you allow me to use it?"
"Ha! Why not? I'd be interested to see what human combat armor can do!"
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