Chapter 416 (2/2)

The Empress kept smiling gently.

“Defeat is completely acceptable. It only proves that there is still room for growth, which dictates us to aim higher next time.”

“Oh, you’re so positive.”

The Empress’ gentle smile rubbed off on Jin, turning his frown into a smile.

“He-he, that’s right. The women of Shouro Empire are positive.”

Hearing her remark, Jin suddenly remembered Elsa’s positive attitude, too.

“Then, do your best. I’m concerned about Elsa as well.”

Having said that, Empress Gelhart Hilde Von Rubies Shouro left.

Finally, it was time for Gonkurrenz to start.

* * *

“Good morning, everyone! On this 3rd day of Technology Expo, as a special event, we formally present the Gonkurrenz!”

The moderator’s voice echoed throughout the arena.

“The promoter is Viscount Georg Randol. The challenger is Jin Nidou!”

The cheers of the audience roared in the arena.

“Furthermore, three people, namely Engar Gerdus, Theolord Governors, and Kelly Galvani, will participate in the competition as last-minute entrants! All three are up-and-coming Magi Engineers!”

The audience applauded to the announcement.

“As everyone is familiar with, this competition will consist of 5 types of events: footrace, heavy throw, long-distance swimming, exploration diving, and simulated combat. We have also devised a special simulated battle with the giant golem, Goliath!”

Marcus’ golem, Goliath, entered the competition as a participant as well. He must have been quite confident to suggest such an event.

“Without further ado, participating Automatas and golems, please step forward!”

The referee Christoph Valde Von Tarnat, Under Secretary of the Ministry of Magical Technology, called upon all participants to come forward. The Automatas and golems stepped forward one after another, leaving their creators in their respective seats.

There were a total of six golems, two from each participant: Engar Gerdus, Theolord Governors, and Kelly Galvani. They seemed to have arranged the pair for land and underwater competitions.

Viscount Georg Randol, or rather Marcus, had prepared two Automatas and two golems to participate. It was apparent from first glance that they were each prepared for land, underwater, and combat competition.

One Automata had a light and slim build for land competition, while another had fins on the limbs with a perfectly fitting swimsuit for underwater competition. There were two golems for the combat event. One of them was wearing an armor, while the other looked burly but without an armor.

“Hmm, victory is on Marcus’ side, after all.”

With a smug expression, Viscount Georg Randol marveled at Marcus’ arsenal, while making light of the last-minute participants. He deemed them no match for Marcus’ opponents.

Suddenly, the audience cheered hysterically.

“What?”

They were reacting to the Automata that came forward from Jin’s team.

A girl-type Automata wearing a one-piece black dress with a white apron that looked absolutely out of place. Needless to say, it was Reiko.

Jin only registered her as the sole participant from his team.

Astnohisment, admiration, bafflement, anticipation … were the cocktail of emotions that intermingled in complete harmony to create the audience’s thundering applause.

“Hmph, are you underestimating the other participants with that style, or are you way too confident? We shall see which it is, sooner than later.”