MPWATMBC Chapter 75

A special thanks to mah.taiyaki for your support!!!

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Since Emperor Qin Feng Anderson piloted the first mecha and struck a decisive blow against the Zerg—self-destructing to kill the Zerg Queen—the status of mechas in the eyes of the people has risen significantly. As research on mechas has deepened, their applications have extended beyond the military. Miniature mechas are now used in medical procedures, heavy-duty mechas in agriculture, and lightweight mechas in security, making mechas an indispensable part of society. Every time the Imperial Mecha Research Institute announces the successful development of a new model, it captures attention across all social strata, becoming a hot topic of discussion for days to come.

Despite their expanding applications, mechas remain primarily focused on the military domain. Their ability to perform on the battlefield is a concern for researchers, government officials, military leaders, and the public alike. Incidents of Zerg invasions at border regions and piracy-related violence persist, with civilians often bearing the brunt of these dangers. Though the Empire enjoys prosperity, there are still pockets of instability, fueling a collective desire for robust military power to ensure safety.

Would equipping the garrisons of every planet with mechas reduce the occurrence of such dangers?

This question arises from time to time, but it remains unanswered.

First, the manufacturing of mechas demands immense resources—human, material, and financial—and the production cycle is relatively long. Second, political maneuvering has always restricted the scale of mecha production. Third, there are ongoing debates about whether it’s appropriate for local forces to be equipped with heavily armed mechas.

But such concerns are for others to grapple with. As the protagonist of today’s new mecha unveiling, Ryan doesn’t need to worry about any of this.

“I’m actually a little nervous,” Ryan muttered, adjusting the buttons on his uniform and glancing at his reflection. He wasn’t wearing the standard white uniform issued by the research institute but the military attire of the Golden Crusade Legion. Today, he would be announcing the birth of a new mecha not as a scientist but as an imperial soldier. This carried a strong military undertone—practically a direct challenge to Prime Minister Gustav.

The recent attacks, the war of public opinion between the factions, and the subtle balance that had once held everything together were now thoroughly disrupted. There was no longer any need to hide intentions.

Gustav likely never anticipated that after abandoning the Bromfield family, he would only scrape together a few crumbs while the biggest prize—the Imperial Mecha Research Institute—had all but slipped from his grasp. Now, it was semi-independent and had quietly aligned itself with Ryan. Ryan’s unparalleled expertise and strength in mecha design had earned him the respect of many dedicated researchers. After purging the Bromfield family’s influence from the institute, under McAryan’s leadership, the place had become a sanctuary for pure talent and innovation, leaving scheming and infighting at the door. This was something McAryan had dreamed of for a very long time.

Auston personally fastened Ryan’s belt and then stepped back a few paces to take in the sight. Ryan stood tall and resolute, exuding both sharpness and a quiet elegance. After silently admiring him for a moment, Auston finally spoke, “Perfect. There’s no need to feel nervous. Just standing there, you’ll be the most dazzling presence in the room.” His words weren’t mere flattery but sincere praise.

One look into Auston’s eyes confirmed the authenticity of his admiration. Honest words have a way of warming hearts, and Ryan was no exception. He stepped closer to Auston, his gaze steady, and planted a kiss on his cheek. “Just wait and watch me steal the show.”

Auston smiled warmly. “I’ll be looking forward to it.”

The press conference was held in the 700-square-meter conference hall on the first floor of the Imperial Mecha Research Institute. To accommodate the event, most of the chairs and tables had been cleared away, leaving only a few for the invited guests from various sectors, particularly the military generals who had come to the capital for the 750th National Day parade. Journalists from multiple media outlets had already set up their equipment, ready to capture the proceedings. Numerous live streams were running, but the Central News Live Platform had the broadest reach. Viewer numbers were climbing by the second, and in just twenty minutes since the broadcast began, they had effortlessly surpassed two billion. Experienced media professionals predicted that peak viewership for the event would likely exceed ten billion.

“More viewers than previous conferences,” one reporter remarked.

“Let’s check the audience comments.”

“Got it.”

The comment feed on the side of the screen was scrolling rapidly, with one name standing out above all others: Ryan. Accompanying it were phrases like Admiral Dalton’s spouse, that enviable guy, and a divine favorite. Indeed, being genetically matched to Admiral Dalton was a rare blessing—what people would call “an ancestor’s blessing from beyond the grave” in ancient terms. Many viewers had tuned in just to see who Ryan Smith was—a person who not only won the admiration of the legendary General Dalton but also the recognition of Master McAryan.

Thanks to Ryan, the entire Empire seemed to be brimming with jealousy-turned-humor. Lately, some joked they didn’t even need vinegar for their dumplings—there was already plenty of “sourness” to go around.

The press conference began promptly. The attendees settled into their seats as Auston sat among his peers, maintaining a perfectly measured smile. Probing remarks, congratulations, veiled jabs—it all washed over him like water off a duck’s back. His gaze remained fixed forward, awaiting the formal start of the event.

At 9:00 a.m., Eve City, Capital Star—the venue’s lights dimmed, plunging the hall into darkness. Suddenly, a massive Arctic wolf appeared at the forefront. Its metallic body shimmered with realistic simulated coloring, and it’s cold, brown eyes scanned the audience with an icy sharpness. The gleam of its razor-sharp teeth, protruding from its snout, caught the light, adding to its menacing aura.

In the silence, the wolf began to move. Every motion showcased its ferocity and precision: its agile form, graceful strides, and the powerful musculature of its limbs. When its enormous front paw rose, a chilling sound—chua—pierced the air, revealing claws sharper than any steel blade.

No one doubted its lethality. A cold, primal savagery seemed to emanate from the creature, filling the hall with an oppressive atmosphere. Fear settled in, palpable and raw. Somewhere in the crowd, a scream broke the silence, sparking a ripple of chaos. The security personnel swiftly intervened, restoring order before the situation escalated.

As the audience calmed, curiosity replaced fear. Was this massive Arctic wolf the new mecha being unveiled? Since the inception of mechas centuries ago, their designs had remained rooted in humanoid forms. Could this wolf represent a groundbreaking departure from tradition? Was the new model truly this revolutionary? The thought stirred a mix of awe and skepticism in every heart present.

The generals, their faces betraying shock and disbelief, felt their hearts surge with excitement. A few even half-rose from their seats, as though they couldn’t resist the urge to touch the new mecha inspired by the Arctic wolf.

The mecha, now motionless, emitted an imposing yet majestic presence. Its chest opened with a smooth mechanical whir, revealing a cockpit. From within, a composed figure emerged—none other than Ryan Smith, the host of today’s press conference. His demeanor was calm and poised, exuding warmth and grace while still maintaining the crisp, commanding presence of a soldier.

“Good morning, everyone. I’m Ryan,” he began, his voice carrying a balance of authority and approachability. “Today, it’s my honor to introduce you to our new partner: the beast-type mecha.” He paused for a moment, his gaze sweeping across the captivated audience.

“This design, originally envisioned by Emperor Qin Feng Anderson, was brought to life by none other than Master McAryan, who dared to break the mold with bold innovations. The beast-type mecha emphasizes several key advantages that I will outline shortly. But first, let’s welcome Master McAryan to the stage to elaborate on the exceptional features of this groundbreaking model.”

Ryan stepped aside with a confident nod, gesturing toward the entrance as the audience broke into a wave of eager applause. All eyes turned expectantly, their excitement palpable, as the legendary McAryan prepared to take the stage.

Master McAryan stepped forward, standing beside the beast-type mecha. He ran his hand over the metallic foreleg, his expression filled with admiration. No matter how many times he watched Ryan’s seamless and natural movements piloting the mecha, he couldn’t help but feel awed. Touching the mecha, it was almost as if he could sense the pulse of life beneath its metallic surface. Taking over the presentation, McAryan’s first words were heartfelt:

“If it weren’t for Ryan, this mecha would never have had the chance to stand before you today.”

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When Ryan emerged from the beast-type mecha, the audience erupted in astonished murmurs. Yet, order didn’t falter; within moments, everyone was captivated by his clear and engaging explanations. A series of videos demonstrating the mecha in combat scenarios played on the massive screens, showcasing its power and versatility. To top it off, Ryan climbed back into the cockpit and performed a series of high-difficulty maneuvers live.

The finale left a lasting impression: under Ryan’s precise control, the fearsome beast-type mecha transformed into an endearingly playful “puppy.” Its intimidating aura softened, replaced by charming antics that had the audience roaring with laughter, both at the venue and across countless live streams.

By the end of the event, Ryan’s identity in the public consciousness had shifted. No longer was he primarily seen as Admiral Dalton’s spouse. Instead, he was recognized as the pilot of the beast-type mecha—a name in his own right.

Those who once mocked Auston for waiting years to find his genetic match—only to pair with what they deemed a “common youth”—were forced to reconsider. Now, as they glanced at Auston, their gazes held undisguised envy. It was clear that Auston had found not just a partner, but a star destined to shine in his own brilliance.

After the conference, reporters eagerly swarmed Auston, their questions rapid-fire, until one particularly bold journalist asked his opinion of Ryan’s performance. Auston turned to glance at the outstanding young man beside him. His usual formal smile softened into something genuine as he replied, “I’m proud of my husband. He worked tirelessly for the beast-type mecha project, sacrificing countless days and nights to bring today’s success to life. Every bit of applause and every bouquet is something he’s truly earned.”

The crowd nodded in agreement—hard work was the foundation of achievement. But wait… husband? Did they miss something?

The reporter blinked, visibly stunned, and hesitated before asking, “General… Did you just say that Mr. Smith is your husband?”

Auston nodded without hesitation. “Yes.” His tone was calm, as though discussing the weather. To him, it was simply a fact, unworthy of secrecy. While many people kept their genetic sequences private before turning 30, marriages past that point were common knowledge. There was no reason to hide it.

“Oh my god!” The reporter had completely lost his professional composure and just wanted to scream, just like the millions of people watching the live broadcast online, shouting loudly, Ahhhhhh! General Dalton’s genetic sequence is X, he’s actually the wife?! Ahhhhhh! Did Ryan save humanity, the world, and the entire universe in his past life? Why does he have such amazing luck to match with the General and marry him?! He must have engaged in all sorts of intimate behaviors with the General. Everyone is going to die of envy, ahhhhhh! Countless people with Y genetic sequences were shouting in their hearts, Throw Ryan away! Let me take his place! Ahhhhh!

Ryan and Auston’s marriage had been a hot topic on the internet recently, and now, with the involved parties themselves adding fuel to the fire, multiple trending topics emerged, driving people into a frenzy. However, unlike the earlier wave of harsh criticism aimed at Ryan, his outstanding performance today had etched into people’s minds the undeniable fact that Ryan Smith was a mecha prodigy! This marriage was far better than they had imagined.

Online opinions didn’t affect Ryan and Auston’s lives. They continued to enrich their lives at their own pace. Ryan, injured, didn’t participate in the military parade. His absence didn’t affect the event. When the troops from various corps marched through the central streets of Eve City, the entire nation entered a celebratory National Day frenzy.

During the week-long holiday, people enjoyed various activities: taking interplanetary or interstellar trips, sleeping soundly without work obligations, tasting long-awaited delicacies, or cooking at home… The festivities seemed to pass in the blink of an eye. The holiday quietly ended, and everyone had to return to their posts. The next break would be the statutory holidays set by each star region.

Ryan and Auston’s six-month vacation after their cruise had ended, but they did not return to the Gamma Military Base. Previously, they thought it would be easy: since they had a child, they could just let the child grow in the gestation pod without needing their company. However, once they became parents, they realized this idea was utterly ridiculous. They were completely unwilling to leave their little treasure. According to imperial law, there is a three-month paid leave after marriage, five months of maternity leave after pregnancy, and one year of paid leave after the child emerges from the artificial womb, that is, the gestation pod. The government, in its effort to boost the birth rate, went to great lengths, even encouraging citizens to take all their leave at once—there were national subsidies for this! Ryan and Auston had not taken advantage of this leave before, but now they were making up for it. They decided not to leave their home on the capital planet for the next 12 months.

It’s worth mentioning that, in the parliamentary session convened after National Day, Auston’s faction held the majority of parliamentary seats. From among them, a speaker was selected to preside over the meetings. Apart from discussing various issues such as people’s livelihood, military, and medical reforms, the speaker raised ten major questions to Prime Minister Gustav. These questions were later regarded in textbooks as the starting point of imperial reform. As a result of the questioning, Prime Minister Gustav did not secure a third term, and his government was dissolved. The empire entered a six-month “anarchic” period, during which the speaker temporarily assumed the position of prime minister and formed a provisional government to handle national affairs. During this time, various factions nominated candidates for the prime ministerial election, conducted campaign tours to gain public support, and held the final election in the sixth month. The details of this series of operations will not be elaborated here.

Taking advantage of the weakened state of the old political faction represented by the Gustav family, the speaker, supported by the Dalton and Lannister families (Auston had established contact with them and confirmed they were allies), became the provisional prime minister. During this period, significant achievements were made, and the truth from 700 years ago would eventually come to light.

Compared to all these disputes and complexities, nothing could hold a candle to their precious baby, Tuantuan. Spending time with their child every day and observing the baby’s new changes filled the hearts of these first-time fathers with joy and an indescribable sense of trembling excitement.

On June 1, 3020, at the spaceport in Eve City on the capital planet, a civilian starship from the Storm Starfield docked. After taking nearly a month to travel from the E69 Plantation Star to Eve City, the Smith family stepped out of the passenger terminal and entered the waiting hall. Gazing at the cityscape, which was entirely different from their homeland, the elderly grandmother—who didn’t need the support of her son or daughter-in-law—stood with her hands clasped behind her back, lost in thought. She had once promised her late husband to stay away from everything on the capital planet, yet now, in her old age, she had broken that promise. Unable to resist her longing to see her great-grandchild, she had come.

“Grandma.” Ryan ran over and hugged his grandmother from the front, giving her a big bear hug. He effortlessly lifted her up and spun her around like a scene from a romantic drama. His grip was steady, and there was absolutely no chance of him dropping her.

Grandma laughed as she hugged her grandson. “My Ryan is looking better and better.”

“In Grandma’s eyes, no matter what I look like, I’ll always be a child.” Ryan put her down and smiled at his parents, welcoming them to the capital planet. He explained, “Auston was supposed to come with me, but something came up at the last minute, and he was delayed. He sends his apologies.”

“There’s no need to apologize. If he’s busy, he shouldn’t delay important matters just to pick us up. It’s fine, it’s fine. We’ll see him at home anyway,” Grandma said, urging Ryan forward. They were eager to meet little Tuantuan.

Ryan’s parents and grandmother had hurried to the capital planet to arrive before Tuantuan’s birth. They wanted to witness the baby emerging from the gestation pod. This was a significant day for the child and a major event for both families, one that was well worth celebrating. For the occasion, Ryan’s parents had even brought a special kind of flower native to E69, dried and preserved. Once the baby was born, they would bathe the child with it, as it was believed to strengthen the body and promote health. This was how Ryan had been welcomed into the world, and how Ryan’s father had been too—it was a family tradition.

When they got home, Auston had not yet returned. Ryan first took his family to see the baby. Just as they were about to enter the nursery, the elderly grandmother suddenly exclaimed, “No!”

Ryan, startled, asked, “What’s wrong?”

Grandmother said, “We’ve traveled a long way and are covered in dirt. How can we go see Tuantuan like this? We must bathe first.”

Both his father and mother agreed. His mother added, “There might even be germs. We can’t risk passing anything to the baby.”

Ryan replied, “…That’s not necessary.” The gestation pod was completely sealed off from the outside world. It was an independent space designed for the baby’s growth. Even if a zombie virus outbreak were to occur outside, it wouldn’t affect the baby’s development. He and Auston always went to see the baby immediately after returning home without any concerns.

But Grandmother insisted, “No, we must bathe first.”

Ryan couldn’t argue with his grandmother, so he led them to their rooms. Washing away the dust of the journey and taking a hot shower to ease their travel fatigue was not a bad idea. His father, however, was more eager to see his little grandson. This was Ryan’s first child and his father’s first grandchild, an event of extraordinary significance. Just a moment ago, he had even placed his hand on the nursery door—just a little more, and he could have pushed it open. What a pity that his mother and wife insisted on not seeing the baby like this.

The father and son stood by the guest room window, sipping coffee and looking at the limited view of the Dalton family estate. (Compared to the plantation star, this place was much smaller.) Ryan’s father broke the silence, saying, “I understand your mom and grandma.”

Ryan was a bit puzzled. In two lifetimes, he had never truly figured out women.

His father, speaking from experience, explained, “They probably feel that after a long journey, they don’t look their best. They think it’s not appropriate to meet the baby like this. They want to take a shower, change their clothes, and maybe even put on some makeup.”

“Uh…” Ryan replied, “Tuantuan is only capable of instinctively opening his eyes right now, and even that is just a physiological reflex. He can’t distinguish anything from the outside world.”

“It’s different,” Ryan’s father said, taking a sip of his coffee and repeating, “It’s different. When you were in the gestation pod, every time your mom and I went to see you, your mom would nervously and excitedly change her clothes several times. She would dress up beautifully before going in. This is a way of showing care and attention.”

Ryan understood—it was his family’s way of expressing concern and love.

Soon after, he found himself nearly losing patience under his mom and grandmother’s repeated questioning. He truly couldn’t understand whether a long skirt paired with a lace jacket was better or if an open-knit cardigan was the right choice. After much deliberation, the two ladies finally decided on their outfits. The whole family, looking as if they were headed to a formal gathering, entered the nursery. Inside, they saw the quietly operating gestation pod and, within it, the adorable Tuantuan.

At nine months and ten days old, Tuantuan was on the brink of being born. Floating in the amniotic fluid of the artificial womb, his soft, pinkish-white appearance resembled a strawberry mochi. Occasionally, he would wiggle his tiny hands and feet, and his endearing little features filled the hearts of his family with joy. Overcome with emotion, Ryan’s parents’ eyes brimmed with tears. His mother’s tears of joy slipped down like pearls, glittering with happiness.

A new life is always a source of immense joy.

After finishing his work, Auston rushed home to reunite with his family. That evening, they had a celebratory reunion dinner, laughing and chatting together. Despite having been apart for a while, there was no sense of estrangement. Thanks to modern technology, they have been able to keep in touch through video calls, bridging the gap of time and space.

On the second day after the family arrived, Bunier moved into the Dalton family’s estate. On his first day there, under the watchful eyes of everyone, he conducted an examination of the gestation pod and the baby inside. When he stood up, he informed everyone of the results: “The baby is developing very well. The birth will take place in the next few days. I will stay nearby and monitor everything closely.”

The artificial womb, after hundreds of years of updates and improvements, can now very successfully simulate the functions of a human uterus. When the baby is ready to be born, the system automatically triggers a rejection process, similar to uterine contractions. This process cannot be artificially interfered with because it is a vital part of the baby’s development and must happen naturally.

After hearing this, Ryan said, “Thank you. Auston and I will also stay close by.”

Many parents who deeply value their children choose to stay by their side during this time. Bunier had seen this happen often and didn’t discourage it. This long waiting process was also a test for the parents’ minds and bodies, serving as an essential psychological growth stage. Bunier couldn’t help but look at Ryan and Auston with a tinge of envy. Watching them and their baby, he found himself longing for such a happy life. However, there was always something standing between him and Derrick. Derrick wasn’t bad, but something seemed to be missing. He hoped that time would smooth out these issues.

The waiting process felt endless, as if several months had passed. Yet, when checking the time, they realized only 36 hours had gone by as they watched over the gestation pod. During this period, either Ryan or Auston was always present by their baby’s side. Tuantuan was a calm and gentle baby; even on the brink of birth, he didn’t seem restless or overly active inside the pod. Instead, he waited leisurely for the key moment to arrive, though this patience severely tested his two dads’ nerves.

On the evening of June 6, at 10 p.m., Ryan was reading a book when his eyes unintentionally swept over the gestation pod. His gaze froze immediately—he noticed that Tuantuan had become more active, and the color of the amniotic fluid had changed… A series of changes signaled that the baby was about to be born.

Ryan’s body reacted faster than his mind. He suddenly shot up and shouted, “Bunier, the baby is about to be born!”

Bunier had been monitoring the changes in the gestation pod and, hearing Ryan’s shout, said, “I was just about to call you.”

Ryan stood up, not even bothering to put on his slippers, and rushed out of the room. He banged on his grandmother’s and parents’ doors. There was no need to call Auston, though; as Ryan pushed open the door to the nursery, Auston, freshly out of the shower and still exuding steam, appeared at the doorway as if sensing something.

The entire family held their breath, watching the baby inside the gestation pod. They watched the amniotic fluid ripple and flow, and they watched as the baby worked hard to emerge from the pod (a process simulating natural birth). Standing at the exit of the pod, Auston suddenly felt a weight in his hands—Tuantuan had dropped into his grasp. For a moment, Auston froze, feeling dazed and at a loss. When Bunier reached out to take the baby for cleaning, Auston instinctively didn’t want to let go.

“Auston,” Ryan’s gentle voice sounded beside his ear. Auston loosened his grip and leaned into Ryan’s arms, resting his face against Ryan’s chest. Soon, Ryan felt the damp warmth of Auston’s tears soaking through.

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WOW!!! Our adorable Tuantuan has born!!!💥💥 Thanks for your love and support!! Stay tuned for more chapters!!!