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14.31% Arcane: Twin Cities Mechanic / Chapter 60: CHAPTER 60 - Reform

Chapter 60: CHAPTER 60 - Reform

After the brief incident with Caitlyn, Li Lin dismissed the idea of meeting Lady Cassandra.

Later, he returned to his room to get the Hextech energy crystal, informing Caitlyn that he would equip the Power Armor to the Undercity again.

Reflecting on the recent kidnapping and the attacks targeting the Kiramman family last night, Caitlyn understood that it was not the time to roam aimlessly.

To avoid causing trouble for Li Lin and the family, she decided not to accompany him to the Undercity.

Li Lin went to the workshop, inserting the Hextech energy crystal into the groove on the chest of the Power Armor.

With the filling of the core energy, the metal gaps of the Power Armor were covered by blue energy light, one by one.

He pressed several buttons on the armor's arm, gears rotated and locked, and mechanical parts on the back of the Power Armor quickly separated and expanded, revealing the cabin for him to enter.

The events of last night had caused a stir throughout the city. With orders from the Council and strict law enforcement by the enforcers, the situation was somewhat under control.

However, in the lawless Undercity, maintained by a loose alliance of Chem-Barons, the situation was uncertain.

If the batch of Shimmer potions from Silco were still available, the sudden appearance of a few domineering Chemtech-modified individuals in the streets would be something his non-armored body couldn't handle.

Although there were law enforcement officers investigating the events of last night, relying on oneself was better than relying on others.

Even a group of trained enforcers would not provide the same sense of security as this set of armor did for him.

After preparations, Li Lin controlled the Power Armor and headed for the Hex Gates.

Unlike previous years, the afterglow of Progress Day faded quickly this year.

Yesterday, the streets were lively, decorated with lights, and street vendors were trying to make extra money during the festival.

Today, regardless of the street, citizens tried to stay indoors as much as possible. The few figures seen on the streets were enforcers patrolling in groups, fully armed and in uniform.

Due to hearing about the events of last night, the enforcers mostly recognized Li Lin's armor as belonging to the Kiramman family.

Therefore, Li Lin reached the Pressure transporter without hindrance after paying the fees for two people and taking the elevator down to the middle layer of Zaun.

The atmosphere in the Lanes, compared to the past, seemed no different on the surface.

Narrow streets and alleys were still bustling with people going about their business. Everyone seemed to be doing whatever they needed to do as if nothing had happened.

However, upon closer observation, the air was filled with a haze that seemed to carry a subtle and unknown meaning.

Struggle.

Not a struggle against the upper city but internal conflicts within the Undercity.

The struggle between Vander's leadership in the Lanes and the factions led by Silco, particularly the Hextech-powered battlesuits, presented a different kind of tension.

On his way, Li Lin felt a variety of complex and intertwined gazes. He arrived at Vander's tavern.

As it was still early, the Last Drop was not open yet, but the internal noise, resembling arguments, indicated that there were at least twenty people inside.

The armed thugs guarding the entrance, upon seeing this huge Power Armor, widened their eyes. Their throats moved slightly as they swallowed saliva.

Their faces did not show fear but rather a kind of astonishment at encountering something extraordinary for the second time.

Clearly, they recognized the Power Armor, and the person driving it was the one who had helped Vander last night.

"Is Vander here? I have something to discuss with him," Li Lin's mechanically resonant voice came through the mask.

"He's inside, discussing last night's events," one of the more discerning thugs hurriedly replied, "Please wait a moment, I'll go inform him."

Saying that, the thug rushed into the building, and Li Lin seemed to hear him being scolded by several people.

However, after a short while, Vander and others, led by him, rushed out of the tavern.

Seeing the familiar yet still shocking Power Armor, Vander, with a purplish-black swelling on his left eye and only his right eye visible, showed a joyful expression.

As his subordinates caught sight of Li Lin, their expressions varied.

They had experienced the power of this powered armor last night.

Vander had returned and described to them the extent of the transformation undergone by those subjected to alchemical technology enhanced by Shimmer serum.

This armor effortlessly annihilated those clearly beyond the realm of humanity, instilling a sense of awe in them.

"Li Lin! You've finally come. I waited for you last night and even considered sending someone," Vander exclaimed.

Vander seemed relatively unharmed, though an occasional flicker of pain crossed his face.

Li Lin lifted the visor of his armor, observing Vander's nearly closed left eye. He inquired, "How's your injury?"

"Ah, just a minor scratch. In my younger days, I was often worse off. This is nothing compared to that," Vander replied casually.

Waving off his concerns, Vander motioned for his subordinates to make way, inviting Li Lin into the tavern.

As they walked, Vander continued, "Benso found a doctor for me last night. He insisted I lie in bed for at least two weeks. I can't stand being inactive for a day, let alone two weeks. Aside from a bit of headache and nausea, I don't think it's a big issue."

"Sounds like a concussion," Li Lin, familiar with such symptoms, couldn't help but ask.

"Concussion?" Vander raised an eyebrow, clearly unfamiliar with the term.

"It's when your head receives a blow causing damage to the brain," Li Lin explained. "You should listen to the doctor and rest; otherwise, it might lead to complications."

Vander didn't seem to take Li Lin's advice seriously. "Let's talk about it later."

Behind the bar, Vander poured a quality beer for Li Lin, who politely declined, pointing to his powered armor.

"No one else here; why not take off this iron guy?" Vander suggested.

"It's inconvenient to wear, too much trouble," Li Lin casually gave a reason, not because he distrusted Vander, but he had overheard arguments inside and was wary of potential mischief during the armor removal.

Vander didn't dwell on it, lifting his own glass, downing it in one go, wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, and releasing a satisfied sigh.

The tavern's patrons maintained silence, over twenty pairs of eyes fixed on the bar, listening intently to the conversation.

Recalling what he overheard earlier, Li Lin asked, "I heard some arguing when I came in. Was it about Silco's matters?"

"Ah, it's related to the incident," Vander sighed heavily. "Last night, that monster killed thirteen of our brothers. Now everyone's debating how to retaliate."

Perhaps fearing that discussing this topic further would reignite the anger among his subordinates, Vander preferred not to delve too deeply into it.

After a brief mention, Vander locked eyes with Li Lin, changing the subject, "You're fully armed today. Need my help with something important?"

Speaking of business, Li Lin became more serious and nodded slightly, "I do need your help."

Vander patted his chest, "No problem. As long as it's within my capabilities, I'll do my best."

"With your influence, it shouldn't be too difficult," Li Lin added.

Pausing for a moment, Li Lin's expression turned serious as he continued, "I believe Zaun needs reform."

(End of this chapter)

=========================================================

DROP THEM POWER STONES AND KINDLY LEAVE REVIEWS AS WELL!

SUPPORT ME ON P@TREON IF YOU'D LIKE ACCESS ON ADVANCED CHAPTERS

PAT REON.COM/TurdTranslations (Just remove the space).


Chapter 61: CHAPTER 61 - Intimidation

"Reform?" Vander's confusion mirrored on the faces of others in the tavern. After a moment, Vander's gaze swept across his subordinates, assessing their expressions.

Taking a moment to ponder, he continued, "I find the Undercity quite satisfactory. Why the need for reform?"

Li Lin sighed, conveying the decisions made by the council during the morning's assembly to Vander.

Not evading others, Li Lin disclosed the details, and the faces of Vander's subordinates were soon filled with discontent and resentment.

"What nonsense from the council! Why do they get to decide this?!"

"We haven't provoked the topsiders in years! Why must these upper-city folks exterminate us?"

"Clearly, this is Silco's doing. Why should we suffer for it?"

"I say we grab Silco and present him to the upper city. That way..."

"Are you a fool? Our internal disputes are our own business. Why lick the boots of those upper city bastards?"

As the voices in the tavern intensified, Vander, fed up, reached for a pipe, struck the table, and raised his voice, suppressing the clamor. "Enough! Can't you let Li Lin finish speaking?"

Following the boss's order, the room gradually quieted, but the restless hearts were far from settling.

Feeling the heated gazes mixed with various emotions, Li Lin turned to face them.

"Don't worry, everyone. I've convinced the council. They agreed to give me five years to change Zaun..."

Before he could finish, three obvious troublemakers showed disdainful expressions, provocatively challenging him.

"Just you? A little brat who hasn't even grown a beard?"

"Hah! I find it hard to believe that an upper-city person like you would help us people from the Undercity."

"Yeah, talking about the council, blah blah. How do we know if it's true or not?"

"I say we..."

Before Li Lin could respond, Vander, unable to endure, intervened, "Enough!"

However, the three troublemakers, always dissatisfied with Vander's tranquil and peaceful ideals, showed no sign of backing down. On the contrary, they became more agitated.

"Vander, he's a topsider, why are you speaking up for him?"

"Yeah, we, the people of the Undercity, should decide what to do, when, and how. Why does an upper-city person get to dictate us?"

"Forget about Silco. If those upper city bastards dare to stir trouble here, we should show them some blood! What do you all think?!"

"Yeah!"

"That's right!"

"Exactly!"

As the emotions of the crowd were stirred up by the trio, Vander's expression grew increasingly gloomy.

Some noticed his anger and warned those around them, prompting them to close their mouths and discreetly move away from the three troublemakers.

At this point, only the three troublemakers remained loud in the tavern.

Vander took a couple of puffs from his pipe, walked away from the bar, and approached the trio.

However, just as he passed by Li Lin, the mechanical hand pressed down on his shoulder, halting his steps.

Vander frowned, looking back at Li Lin, who shook his head.

"Let me handle this."

Vander nodded, silently leaning against the bar, blowing smoke rings, eager to see how Li Lin would handle the situation.

Li Lin, manipulating the armor, donned the face mask again and asked the lead troublemaker, "What's your name?"

"Heh, you, an upper-city kid, want to know my name?"

"I'm asking you. What's your name?" Li Lin's tone intensified as he took two steps forward.

"W-What? You want to threaten me? Let me tell you, I've been threatened since I was a kid. This is nothing..."

"Answer my question. What's your name?"

This time, Li Lin activated the power armor's Overcharge.

After a brief three seconds, the metal shell of the entire armor was covered with pulsating blue arcs, enhancing its intimidating presence.

The three troublemakers swallowed nervously, their eyes showing a hint of panic as they looked at their surrounding companions.

Unfortunately, due to their usual arrogance and bullying behavior, their popularity was extremely low. Combined with Vander's lack of reaction to Li Lin's actions, the majority of the crowd remained silent, observing the unfolding situation.

Vander, his face gradually darkening, pulled two fingers from his mouth and whistled sharply.

The loud, piercing sound echoed through the tavern, immediately grabbing everyone's attention.

Li Lin's expression remained unchanged, staring intently at the lead troublemaker.

Vander, in his own way, was trying to convey that the matter should end here, and everyone should return to their seats.

However, the three troublemakers, still not willing to yield, continued their defiance.

"Vander, why are you standing with an upper-city outsider?!"

"Yeah, we should decide our actions, not some upper-city kid!"

Ignoring them, Li Lin's gaze remained fixed on the lead troublemaker.

The intense atmosphere in the tavern seemed to reach its peak, awaiting the resolution of this confrontation.

In the dimly lit tavern, those loyal to Vander didn't dare defend these three fools who enjoyed mocking and had loose tongues, especially when faced with this massive steel giant that could effortlessly crush even "monsters."

The lead troublemaker, nudged by his companions, reluctantly stepped forward to save face.

"Hmph! Utter my name, and it might... startle you! I am called..."

Before he could finish, Li Lin disdainfully snorted, interrupting him, "Enough. I'm not interested in your name."

"...You scoundrel!" The troublemaker's face flushed, enraged. "Are you mocking me?"

"Oh, you're quite clever. Indeed, you figured it out," Li Lin chuckled lightly, raising an international-friendly hand gesture with his powered armor. "So what? I'm playing with you. What are you going to do about it?"

"You...!" The troubled one, now verbally dismantled by Li Lin, drew a short knife from his waist and waved it in the air.

"Remove your metal junk, and let's settle this like men! I dare you!"

Li Lin continued to smile, his tone indifferent. "If you have the guts, spend some money to get an armor like mine. I have time to wait... Oh, I forgot, you're broke. Never mind then."

"You son of a...!" The troublemaker, verbally defeated by Li Lin, cursed vehemently, drawing his attention to call in his two brothers for support.

However, to his surprise, his so-called "good brothers" had silently slipped into the crowd, completely ignoring his pleading eyes.

Now left to face Li Lin alone, the troublemaker turned back towards the imposing figure, feeling a hint of surrender in his gut.

"So, having money makes you superior?" he retorted, desperately.

"I'm sorry, but having money does make a difference," Li Lin's tone turned colder. He took a few steps toward the troublemaker, and the sounds of mechanical gears and heavy footsteps echoed in the tavern.

"You, you, you... don't come any closer!"

The troublemaker, isolated and helpless, kept stepping back with each of Li Lin's strides until he stumbled and fell over a table.

As he tried to get up and distance himself from the iron behemoth, Li Lin approached, crouching down and using a mechanical hand to grip the troublemaker's shoulder, rendering him immobile with a formidable force.

"You've been talking for quite a while. You're very brave, facing me even in powered armor," Li Lin sneered. "Impressive. You must be quite confident in yourself."

Li Lin pulled the troublemaker up, but the man's legs gave way due to fear, causing him to fall again.

Simultaneously, a foul stench wafted through the air. The troublemaker had indeed soiled himself in fear.

Quickly stepping back to avoid contamination, Li Lin cast a disdainful glance at the humiliated troublemaker.

Meanwhile, the others in the tavern distanced themselves, equally repulsed by the situation. However, no one dared to mock the troublemaker, given the intimidation Li Lin had brought.

Vander, sighing in resignation, tapped his pipe and gestured to the other two troublemakers who had disappeared into the crowd.

"Alright, you two, go and drag him out... and clean up this mess."

Reluctantly, the two men emerged, supporting the embarrassed troublemaker, who was still on the ground, avoiding eye contact.

They hastily returned with wet towels and a bucket, disdainfully wiping the liquid off the floor.

Once the trio had completely cleaned up and hurriedly exited the tavern, Li Lin returned to Vander's side, opening the face mask of his powered armor.

Expressionless, Li Lin scanned the surroundings, his gaze stern. He spoke in a chilling tone, "Now, can we have a civilized conversation?"

(End of this chapter)

=========================================================

DROP THEM POWER STONES AND KINDLY LEAVE REVIEWS AS WELL!

SUPPORT ME ON P@TREON IF YOU'D LIKE ACCESS ON ADVANCED CHAPTERS

PAT REON.COM/TurdTranslations (Just remove the space).


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