Chapter 482: A Lopsided Battle
The audience was filled with excited cheers and shouts from players.
"Go, Frenzy! Charge!"
"For Omnissiah!"
The name "Iron Frenzy" echoed throughout the battlefield, while support for Floating Chaos of War was sparse, limited to a few acquaintances.
In the stands, Construction King had tears in his eyes and whispered, "Good luck, Chaos. You're the last hope for us casual players."
"Grinding Emperor, you got this!"
"Go, Chaos!"
The followers behind Construction King also cheered softly.
"Both contestants, take your positions."
The sweet voice of the announcer echoed through the arena.
The announcer was a popular player known for her voice and appearance—her nickname was "Red Maple."
"As you can see, the crowd's enthusiasm is through the roof."
"And no wonder! The red side's contestant is the guild leader of the Machine Cult, a well-known professional player—Iron Frenzy. As the first-ever Mechaneer player, Iron Frenzy's strength is formidable. His Guardian Armor is an impeccable creation, a perfect blend of technology and magic, featuring a forcefield shield and elemental lightning cannon…"
"Iron Frenzy!"
"Flesh is weak, machine ascends!"
The audience erupted in another wave of cheers.
"Hahaha! Looks like Iron Frenzy is quite the crowd favorite."
"And now, our blue-side contestant, Floating Chaos of War…"
Red Maple hesitated.
She glanced at the nearly blank information sheet, which only had a few lines, then carefully chose her words before continuing, "…is also an eight-level player."
"We should note that Floating Chaos of War joined during the Northern War era, yet he has already reached the level cap. That alone proves his perseverance. His strength should not be underestimated."
"Red Maple is so kind."
"This guy is really unlucky, running into such a monster right from the start."
This time, there weren't many voices.
Hearing the announcer's words, Floating Chaos of War's mouth twitched.
At this point, he had no choice but to tough it out.
With heavy steps, he walked onto the battlefield. Meanwhile, with each rumbling footstep, Iron Frenzy's Omega Energy armor advanced.
One large, one small—two figures.
The six-meter-tall mech stood next to the human player, forming an overwhelming contrast. Its shadow alone could completely envelop Floating Chaos of War.
It was clear—this was not a fair fight.
Floating Chaos of War tried to lift his head, locking his gaze on the pro player inside the cockpit—Iron Frenzy. His grip on his sword trembled slightly.
Stay calm.
Don't be afraid.
Even pro players aren't invincible.
Even this massive hunk of metal must have a weakness.
Floating Chaos of War, you're meant to be a pro player, the future Dragonflame Champion—you can't fall in the preliminaries!
With this thought, his gaze on Iron Frenzy grew resolute, as tactical plans and strategies formed in his mind.
Against such a massive opponent, mobility must be its weakness.
If he used Phantom Step to close the gap, the mech wouldn't have time to react.
A slide tackle to its rear, followed by continuous heavy strikes to kill the pilot—end the match instantly.
Defeating the Machine Cult's guild leader would be the perfect start to his career!
One battle to fame! Instant legend!
That's it!
His grip on his sword trembled, but this time, it was from excitement rather than fear.
Meanwhile, inside the cockpit, Iron Frenzy glanced down through the reinforced glass, scratching his head in confusion.
"Man, why does this guy look so weird? He's staring at me like he's possessed—it's creeping me out."
"Whatever, let's get through these prelims quickly. My guild still has projects waiting for me, and the Gene Scientists and Forgemasters are arguing over budgets again… so exhausting."
"Speaking of which—"
"How do you even lose when you have a mecha?"
The crowd's excitement remained high, cheers and chants echoing throughout the arena.
The announcer's voice rang out clearly across the field.
"Both contestants, prepare yourselves."
"Three, two…"
"One."
"Match start."
Before the referee finished speaking, Floating Chaos of War quickly stepped back, creating a safe distance.
He carefully observed his opponent, his mind racing.
I must find a weakness and land a decisive strike!
I only have one chance!
"We can see that Floating Chaos of War is playing it safe, choosing to keep his distance."
"Interestingly, according to official data, he's a Champion Berserker, a class that focuses on heavy melee attacks. He must have a unique strategy in mind."
"Oh? We see Iron Frenzy opting to use his Elemental Lightning Cannon right away! For a Mechaneer, this is the optimal attack range!"
Inside the cockpit, Iron Frenzy pushed a lever, muttering, "Might as well wrap this up quickly. I heard they're about to pit battle mechs against synthetic beasts…"
The left arm of the [Guardian] armor glowed intensely, electric arcs dancing across its surface.
"Boom!"
A thick lightning bolt shot forth, targeting Floating Chaos of War.
"He can't move now!"
"This is it!"
A glint flashed in Floating Chaos of War's eyes. He gripped his sword tightly as the silver bracelet on his wrist shone.
Phantom Step!
"Boom!"
The blue-white lightning struck where he had just been, leaving a massive crater. But the only thing left was a faint silver mist.
Floating Chaos of War had reappeared behind the mech, sword in hand.
"Whoa!"
The crowd gasped in shock.
Even Red Maple sounded surprised. "Unbelievable!"
"Floating Chaos of War used Phantom Step to enter Iron Frenzy's blind spot! Could this be a miracle?!"
Floating Chaos of War tightened his grip on his [Frostbite Sword], charging forward—he even executed a slide tackle!
This is it!
Strike the mech with a heavy blow!
In a flash, he leaped high, swinging his sword toward the Omega Armor's rear—the location of the cockpit.
The audience held their breath.
Could this really be happening?
"Clang!"
A sharp metallic sound rang out.
Floating Chaos of War was sent flying backward, his sword knocked from his hands, embedding itself into the ground.
A forcefield shield had appeared on the mech's back!
The Omega Armor was completely unscathed.
"Impossible…"
Floating Chaos of War lay on the ground, stunned.
Red Maple's voice quickened. "Floating Chaos of War's sneak attack has failed!"
"Who would've thought Iron Frenzy's mech also had a rear forcefield! Such protective enchantments are outrageously expensive—just a small piece costs hundreds of gold!"
Iron Frenzy chuckled, controlling his mech as it slowly turned. "After losing gear to a backstab last time, I realized—full-body shields are king!"
"I call this—the Turtle Shell Strategy!"
Floating Chaos of War glared at the laughing Iron Frenzy, cursing internally. "This is just pay-to-win!"
Frustrated, he pointed at Iron Frenzy. "Referee! That's cheating!"
"Sorry…"
Iron Frenzy raised his mech's massive fist, thrusters glowing as it gathered power.
"Boom!"
A single punch shook the ground, kicking up a cloud of dust.
When the dust settled, a massive crater had formed on the ground, and Floating Chaos of War lay in a bloodied heap—clearly, he was dead.
"That was an accident!"
That was the last thought that flashed through his mind before his screen went black.
"Wealth is part of strength too!"
"This is the true combat style of a Mechaneer!"
Iron Frenzy flashed a triumphant grin as his massive Omega Energy mech raised its fist, steam venting from its back.
The battle had ended too quickly, leaving the announcer less than enthused. "A completely one-sided victory!"
"Let's congratulate—Iron Frenzy on winning this round!"
"Ooooooooh!"
"Frenzy is unstoppable!"
"Flesh is weak, machine ascends!"
"Wait, that's it? Just one punch?!"
Inside his game pod, waiting for resurrection, Floating Chaos of War scrolled through the forums to see if anyone was talking about him.
Soon, he found a video, and his expression darkened—"Mechaneers Are the Future! Iron Frenzy One-Punch KOs Level 8 Warrior"
And he, Floating Chaos of War, was the unfortunate background character.
[Damn, that damage.]
[Frenzy is still insane.]
[This isn't about Mechaneers, just pure gear difference. Give me that much money, and I'd do even better!]
[The other guy doesn't seem weak either. Just unlucky to run into a beast like Iron Frenzy.]
[Wait, isn't this the Grinding Emperor?]
[Yeah, just the sheer grind to reach level 8—I couldn't do it.]
Seeing this, Floating Chaos of War's expression eased slightly.
"Exactly, I was just unlucky. Losing to a player like Iron Frenzy is nothing to be ashamed of."
"What doesn't kill me will only make me stronger! Hardships and setbacks will only make me tougher!"
He clenched his fists, determination returning to his eyes.
"Well then… Sorry, future opponents, but from here on, I'm not losing another match!"
Tournament participants received free "quick resurrection" services, though the experience penalty for death was non-refundable.
Luckily, Floating Chaos of War had enough experience saved up to remain at level 8 without dropping a level.
With the tournament schedule packed tight due to the upcoming server maintenance, his next match was soon.
This time, he spent all his savings to buy a high-quality armor set from the Empire's armory.
This time, he was determined to win!
An hour and a half later, Arena One.
"Contestant #22054, Floating Chaos of War."
Under the eyes of the crowd, the resurrected Floating Chaos of War entered the arena once more, his eyes brimming with confidence.
He even waved at the audience, sparking discussion.
"Isn't that the guy who got one-punched by Iron Frenzy earlier?"
"Wait, he's the One-Punch Warrior?!"
"Man, this dude's luck is awful. Who's his opponent this time?"
Hearing the chatter, Floating Chaos of War clenched his fist, gritting his teeth, forcing a casual smile.
His earlier loss was just an accident. Now, he would show his true strength and earn everyone's respect!
This was the real beginning of his pro career!
"Contestant #00023, Mighty Dragonlord."
The referee's voice echoed, and Floating Chaos of War's smile froze instantly.
He looked up to see a nearly three-meter-tall, muscle-bound bald monk stepping out from the hallway.
The monk grinned, flashing perfect white teeth, and waved toward the audience with arms thicker than a man's torso.
His body was sculpted like a statue, and his gleaming bald head reflected the sunlight.
"Mighty Dragonlord! The god of Monks!"
"That's the guild leader of [Shaolin Temple]? The leader of the Eighteen Arhats?"
"It's him!"
"I heard he took a high-dose Dragonblood Potion but didn't grow scales. Instead, he gained the raw strength of a humanoid dragon!"
"Absolutely terrifying!"
"Man, this guy's cursed. How does he keep running into monsters like these?"
As the announcer introduced the contestants and the referee gave the signal, the match began.
"We can see that Mighty Dragonlord's strength and speed are inhuman!"
Wall-Running Technique!
The bald monk pushed off the ground, leaving two deep footprints.
With a burst of dust, he soared over ten meters into the air, crossing the battlefield in an instant, his shining bald head gleaming under the sun.
"Oh, sh—"
Floating Chaos of War instinctively raised his hand to shield his eyes from the blinding glare.
"Boom!"
Lightweight Step!
Rubble scattered!
Mighty Dragonlord landed right next to Floating Chaos of War, completely unscathed, taking no fall damage.
Unarmed against a weapon, armorless against armor—this was his advantage!
Now's my chance—Heavy Strike!
Floating Chaos of War swung his sword, cutting a perfect arc toward the monk's sculpted body.
"Prajna Buddha, Prajna Paramita Boom!"
Intimidating Fist!
The bald monk threw a punch, his massive fist radiating powerful inner energy, smashing toward Floating Chaos of War.
"Boom!"
A shockwave blasted forth, leaving a deep fist imprint on Floating Chaos of War's chestplate.
His armor shattered, and he himself was sent flying over ten meters, crashing into the ground, barely clinging to life.
"Crash!"
Along with his shattered armor, his dreams of championship seemed to crumble as well.
Mighty Dragonlord laughed heartily, flashing those dazzling white teeth. "Kid, a Monk's fists are the strongest weapons!"
"Another crushing victory! Congratulations to Mighty Dragonlord!"
"And let's also recognize Floating Chaos of War's… uh, unyielding perseverance. His never-give-up spirit is something we can all learn from."
"Are you f—"
"Boom!"
Before he could finish speaking, Floating Chaos of War's screen went black again.
His own inner energy had exploded inside him!
Mighty Dragonlord sheepishly scratched his bald head, chuckling. "Haha, my power's been growing too fast—I still don't have full control over my inner energy."
"Monks Are the Strongest Class! Mighty Dragonlord One-Shots an Armored Level 8 Warrior!"
[Mighty Dragonlord is a freak of nature. No way we regular players can compare.]
[Yeah, lots of beta testers are like this.]
[Wait, why is Floating Chaos of War the background character again?]
[This luck… is he trying to compete with Charlotte for the title of "Ultimate Unlucky Player"?]
"It's Floating Chaos of War again!"
Lying powerless in his game pod, Floating Chaos of War let out a mournful wail.
This loss wasn't his fault.
The enemy was too strong, the arena was unfamiliar, and his gear was lacking.
Monsters like Mighty Dragonlord weren't opponents regular players could handle. Losing so badly was only natural.
Many forum users expressed their sympathy.
"I… still have one last chance."
Determination flickered in his eyes—he couldn't give up yet!
Even if he couldn't advance, he had to win at least one match!
He had to leave his mark in this arena!
This was his final shot, his last stand!
People were starting to notice him. If he could win this next match, he might just secure a spot in a top guild!
Floating Chaos of War clenched his fist again. "No matter who I face next, I won't hold back."
An hour and a half later, still in Arena One.
"Contestant #00325, I Going to Eat a Mantou."
Before the referee's words even finished, the audience erupted into heated discussion once more.
"It's Mantou the Old Bandit!"
"This guy hasn't updated in two months—he spends all day hunting down players!"
"Somebody, beat him back home! I want him to update his videos!"
"No worries, I have faith in Mantou. He's so bad that he'll go home on his own—we don't need to worry."
"Hahahaha! Guaranteed elimination, Prison Bun!"
In the contestant tunnel, Floating Chaos of War's eyes lit up, and a look of delight appeared on his face.
Judging from the audience's words, was today's opponent weak?
Finally, a soft target!
Floating Chaos of War had been too busy grinding quests to watch Mantou's videos, but he had heard of the entertainment content creator.
Great! If he's just an entertainer, how strong could he be? He's probably just a casual player—not even close to a grinding emperor like me.
I couldn't beat the rich warriors or the muscle freaks, but surely I can beat a mere entertainment content creator?
Finally, a chance to prove my strength!
His grip on his sword trembled with excitement. This time, he was really going to win!
Thirty seconds later, Floating Chaos of War stared blankly at the wyvern soaring high above, watching its sinister shadow sweep across the ground.
What is wrong with this world?
Why does a hard-working player like me keep encountering these monsters?
"Referee, he's cheating."
"This is a solo match. How is a wyvern allowed? That's clearly outside assistance!"
He pointed to the sky, his once-resolute expression now numb.
The referee reminded him, "Wyverns are the contract mounts of the [Crimson Scaled Conqueror] class. They are personal player property and meet tournament regulations."
Floating Chaos of War stood on the ground, gazing at the wyvern circling in the sky, feeling utterly helpless.
His melee techniques were good, but he couldn't fly!
Was he supposed to jump up and drag both the rider and wyvern down with a single slash?
And how was an entertainment content creator using [Crimson Scaled Conqueror], the so-called strongest warrior advancement class?
Every aspect of it completely outclassed his own [Champion Berserker] build.
Where was the casual entertainment creator he was promised?
The audience's intel was completely wrong!
Yet the brutal reality left him no time to grieve—he had to figure out how to handle this airborne enemy.
"Screech—"
"Noodles, let's go!"
From the sky came a hoarse dragon roar, Mantou's excited shout, and the sharp sound of wings cutting through the air.
With a battle cry, Mantou and his wyvern achieved a blood resonance, radiating the overwhelming presence of an ancient dragon. A phantom image of a red dragon seemed to materialize behind him.
"Whoosh—"
Floating Chaos of War failed to dodge in time and was impaled through the chest by a lance.
"Ah… Another one-sided victory. It seems Floating Chaos of War was unprepared for an aerial assault."
"Let's congratulate I Going to Eat a Mantou on winning this match."
"Prison Bun won?"
"What the hell?!"
"Dude, did you really think he was bad? He only looks bad compared to those pro monsters!"
"Think about it—he's a Dragonblood Baron of the Ember Empire, a high-ranking enforcer, and a Crimson Scaled Conqueror. How could he be weak?"
"No worries, this is just the preliminaries. Don't stress—Prison Bun is guaranteed to crash and burn in the main tournament! He really is bad!"
"I'm a die-hard Mantou fan. He can't win at all!"
"Man, Floating Chaos of War is so unlucky. He barely got into the tournament, played only three matches, and ran into 2.5 pro players. His luck is on par with Charlotte's."
"Hmm? The Chosen One? (Detecting Critical Elements)"
"Wait, 2.5 pro players? Who are you implying? No way… You don't mean Mantou, do you?"
"Haha, giving Prison Bun a 0.5 rating is already generous."
"It's not Floating Like a Dream—it's Floating Chaos of War!"
Lying on the ground, Floating Chaos of War screamed internally, but as his blood drained, his strength seemed to be siphoned away as well.
You cheating bastards, can't you take it easy and leave some room for regular players?
That was his final thought before blacking out.
Floating Chaos of War—dead.
In the end, Floating Chaos of War got his wish—he became famous among the players.
Riding the wave of the tournament's popularity, he became a well-known figure on the forums.
For once, the forum's top post was about him—not just as a background character. He even overshadowed major pro players like Summer Night Autumn Rain.
Though, perhaps, his rise to fame wasn't exactly how he imagined it.
The title read:
"The Preliminaries' Winless Legend! Floating Chaos of War vs. Three Pro Players!"
Well, the difference wasn't huge… they had just swapped "undefeated" for "winless."