The days passed quickly, and the next task on Ethan's agenda was to secure the black iron mine. But before that, there was a matter of vital importance he had to address: the Vesper armor. After the last encounter with the cultivators, it became clear that even the toughest steel couldn't stop the impact of their attacks. The energy generated by a cultivator, a kind of kinetic force powered by their Qi, was capable of denting steel and crushing the internal organs of a human being.
Ethan had summoned Yuan Kai to help him. After all, he was an experienced blacksmith, and although his knowledge didn't focus on high-tech materials, his forging skills could be key in this task.
"What do you think?" said Ethan, watching Yuan Kai analyze the piece of black steel in front of him.
"This material is incredible," Yuan Kai replied, his voice tinged with awe.
"Much stronger and more durable than black iron. It's ideal for making armor and swords."
Ethan nodded, listening carefully.
"Black iron has the property of absorbing spiritual energy. Many use it in armor or defensive treasures because it absorbs impacts better. But this... this material goes beyond that," Yuan Kai explained, studying the surface of the metal in more detail.
Ethan frowned, thinking about the possibilities. "Could we develop a scale or plate armor with this?"
"We could," Yuan Kai continued without losing focus. "The plates of this material could disperse the impact energy, absorbing part of the damage. If we reinforce it properly, even the strongest blows from cultivators could be significantly reduced."
Ethan thought for a moment, an idea forming in his mind. He was thinking of a bulletproof vest, but with the enemies they were facing, that approach wouldn't be enough. They needed something different.
Ethan smiled slightly. "Something that not only protects but also allows us to carry more gear or ammunition without sacrificing mobility. Something flexible, that gives us freedom to act, but offers protection against direct attacks."
Yuan Kai thought for a moment, his mind analyzing the concept. "So, a lighter and more adaptable armor?"
Ethan nodded, the idea becoming clearer. "Use something modular, so each part of the armor can distribute the impact without overloading the wearer. And if we can add some kind of compartment to carry more resources, like ammunition or tools, even better."
"Ah... I see," Yuan Kai said with a slight smile. "It would be armor that not only protects but also becomes part of the battle gear. That would give us an advantage."
"That's what I want," Ethan responded firmly. "A solution that combines the best of technology and human flexibility. We need the Vesper to be able to move agilely, but without sacrificing protection or resources."
Yuan Kai nodded, the spark of excitement in his eyes.
Ethan looked around, his mind already focused on the next steps. "Alright. Let's begin the design."
The workshop filled with a renewed sense of determination.
The basic structure of the armor would be made up of interconnected plates, crafted from black steel. However, the plates wouldn't be continuous or rigid like those of medieval armor; rather, each section would be modular and flexible, allowing the Vesper to move with agility.
The most crucial part was the torso. The chest and back would be protected by a layer of movable black steel plates, arranged in a staggered fashion, like the scales of a dragon. These plates would allow them to bend as the user moved their arms or torso, maintaining excellent mobility.
The plates overlapped to provide a dense layer of protection against blades and blows.
The arms would be protected by modular gauntlets made of plates. These pieces would be lightweight.
The legs would have similar protection to the arms, the design of these pieces ensuring mobility, allowing for jumps, runs, and quick movements.
The head would be protected by a black steel helmet, designed with a detachable visor. The helmet would have an aerodynamic shape, ensuring minimal restriction of vision.
Foot protection was equally important, especially considering that battles wouldn't always take place on solid ground.
The black steel boots would be reinforced at the heels and toes, with an outer layer, allowing excellent traction on any surface, from slippery stones to sandy terrain.
Ethan had considered the need for the Vesper to carry more ammunition, and the solution was to integrate a belt system that could be adjusted to the lower torso or thighs.
This system would allow for the storage of additional cartridges for the Mauser Kar 98.
Each section of the armor was designed not only to protect but also to be efficient in the battlefield, maximizing the use of resources and the agility of its wearers.
Ethan observed the armor with satisfaction. The sight of the finally finished piece before him gave him a sense of accomplishment, though he knew this was only the first step. The mix of materials and design he had managed to implement took the best of both worlds: flexibility, mobility, advanced protection.
It was a completely different design from any conventional armor. Instead of the rigidity of medieval armors, the movable plates provided optimal coverage without sacrificing agility.
"Ye Han, come here. Try this on," Ethan said, pointing to the armor on a work table.
Ye Han, the most experienced Vesper in the unit, nodded and approached the set. He put it on easily, moving with agility as he adjusted the straps and modular plates. When he put on the helmet, he grimaced and, with his voice somewhat muffled by the inside of the protection, commented:
"It's... comfortable, but... the helmet feels strange."
"I know. A closed helmet isn't the most comfortable option, but it provides the most protection right now. Although, you're right. It's something we need to work on."
Ye Han nodded.
They both headed to the training field, where Shen Bao was observing the activity.
"Let's see how it performs," Ethan said, looking at Ye Han. "Do what you do best."
Ye Han nodded, eager to test the armor in action. He started with a series of jumps. His body moved quickly, his agility intact. He jumped forward, then backward. The metal of the plates moved with his body, flexing and adapting without restricting his ability to move.
"This is great," Ye Han said, smiling as he moved. "It's not that heavy."
Then he started running at full speed. The armor adjusted perfectly with every stride. There was no friction or discomfort, just a natural fit that complemented the pace of his run. He felt lighter than he had imagined.
Despite being covered from head to toe, the freedom of movement was not compromised.
Shen Bao, watching from afar, raised an eyebrow with satisfaction.
"How's it feel?" Ethan asked, watching every movement closely.
"Good," Ye Han replied, stopping momentarily. "The weight is light, and the flexibility is surprising."
Ethan smiled slightly. This was a success. He knew there was still room for improvement, but for now, the armor exceeded expectations.
Ye Han continued with more tests, firing the Mauser Kar 98 with impressive ease. The armor's structure did not interfere with his aim.
When the test was over, Ye Han removed the armor.
Ethan turned to Shen Bao. "Get ready for the next step. We're going to secure the black iron mine."
Shen Bao nodded without hesitation, his face filled with determination. "So, when do we leave?"
Ethan looked toward the horizon, where the mountains stood majestic and silent, a reminder of the dangers lurking beyond the safety of Omega Zero.
"As soon as we have the first batch of armors ready," he replied firmly.
There was no time to waste. The mine was a crucial resource.
With those words, the group dispersed, each member focused on their tasks as the hours passed. Meanwhile, Ethan stayed a few moments longer, gazing at the mountains, preparing his mind for what was to come.
The next chapter of his mission was about to begin, and it wouldn't be easy. But he was ready to face whatever awaited him.
NOTE: Chapters 30 and 31 should have been released yesterday, I thought I had scheduled them. My apologies to everyone (＿|￣|○).