Hidden Dead Ends

The *League of Mech Masters* maintained a strict ranking system. Competitors who placed in the top three of their tournaments were awarded prestigious titles, recognized across the globe. 

Kong Sicheng, standing amidst the chaos outside Iron Peak Corporation’s headquarters, had once been on the brink of securing third place in a national ranking tournament. A true professional Mech Master, his skillset was undeniable.

“This isn’t on us,” said Ding Zaocheng, one of Suiyang’s Deputy Security Chiefs. He spoke without looking at Kong Sicheng, his gaze focused instead on a projection playing in his retinal display. It looped over security footage of the attack.

“The attacker was an unknown model. In our nation, fully enhanced cyborgs aren’t even allowed in cities without specific clearance. With **Silent Fort** overseeing all entries, it’s impossible for one to sneak in undetected.”

“Ridiculous. What about the **Utopia Terror Incident**? Weren’t those attackers fully enhanced cyborgs?” Kong Sicheng countered sharply.

“There may have been internal collusion,” Ding replied, his tone calm. “I understand your frustration over the losses you’ve suffered, but our priority now is identifying the suspect.”

Ding opened his eyes, his jet-black irises locking coldly onto Kong.@@novelbin@@

“For such a significant incident, why hasn’t Zheng Kai made an appearance? Why are you the one taking the brunt of this?”