This place was revered by all soldiers, as generations of new weaponry were developed here.

Yet another facet of Shao Qi's identity was that he was the Chief Engineer here.

Shao Qi placed his hand on the card reader, only after triple authentication did the heavy door open, revealing a faint scent of gunpowder. Everyone instinctively discarded any flammable items before entering.

Upon entry, display cases lined the corridor, showcasing the latest innovations, each of which bore significant epoch-making potential.

"Wow, is this the black armor that's all the rage nationwide right now, the 'Insect Armor'? I heard it's incredibly affordable," a person remarked, gazing intently at the armor in the display.

The full set of black armor was striking, distinct from their usual gear. It bore a resemblance to ancient armors, which naturally led one to question its weight and comfort.

"Indeed, this is one of the three designs tailored for heavyweight fighters. Its production is limited."

"What's the story behind this pocket-sized handgun over here? I don't think I've seen this model before?"

The adjacent description read, "Model MINXIN-2, a ray gun. Unlike laser guns, a single, slender beam can penetrate even the toughest materials, making even the most resilient armor vulnerable."

However, the energy stones required for these ray guns are exceedingly rare, preventing their widespread issuance in the military. Only a few currently exist.

Within this factory, the focus of research is on firearms, with the miniature electromagnetic bomb used by Shao Qi being one of its exclusive products.

Beyond the second door, they witnessed staff moving between research rooms and production lines. Suddenly, an explosion erupted from one of the labs. Thankfully, the blast-resistant glass held firm. Soon after, a researcher emerged, face masked, his body smeared with soot.

Thankfully, he was unharmed.

Everyone was aware that the weapons they used were the result of countless experiments, fraught with peril. The finished products they saw may well have been birthed from the blood and sweat of the researchers.

The individual promptly headed to the infirmary for a check-up, while another staff member entered the affected lab with a fire extinguisher to begin the cleanup.

Shao Qi led them into an elevator, descending directly to the eighth basement level, the very heart of the factory's storage.

Zhuo Hao and the others began to grasp Shao Qi's intentions. It seemed a fierce battle might be imminent.

Chapter 236: The Final Duel (Part I)

Shao Qi entered a code to unlock a storage room, telling them, "Go on in and choose. Take whatever you fancy, and gear up."

Their eyes gleamed with excitement. Any weapon housed here was surely top-tier, likely the type not easily mass-produced.

Yet, they were not greedy. They took only what suited them, understanding that anything else might become a liability.

Shao Qi opened a secured case, revealing a silver box inside. Upon opening it, nine mini electromagnetic pulse bombs lay side by side, identical to the one he had previously used.

That very device had claimed the lives of three comrades and stripped him of his martial prowess. Yet, if presented with the choice again, he would use it without hesitation.

He pocketed one of the bombs, locked the box, and turned to see the group eyeing him with concern.

"Have you all made your selections?" he asked.

"Yes!"

Shaoyi took a quick glance, impressed by their choices. "Head out," he advised, "Stay out of trouble for the next few days. Don't seek it, but don't shy away from it either. When you have time, train more at the gym."

"Boss, we still have the tournament to watch," Xiong Miley said, scratching his head.

Xu Yuanyao eagerly raised his hand, "I'm one of the competitors. Don't forget to cheer for me!"

Shaoyi looked at him sympathetically, "If you're aiming for a top position, you might want to manage your expectations. If you're just in it for the experience, then give it your best."

Xu Yuanyao chuckled, "Marshal, you don't need to console me. I know I'm just average. I don't even dare to think about winning a top place."

"By the way, did any of you place your bets? Who did you bet on?"

The group burst into lively chatter about the upcoming martial arts competition. Just as they reached the first floor, Shaoyi turned to them, saying, "Bet on Zhou Shan. Don't waste your money on anyone else."

"Why?" They wondered, "Is Zhou Shan some kind of expert?"

Shaoyi's face remained impassive, adding an air of mystery to his words, leaving everyone even more intrigued.

Only Zhuo Hao connected the name Zhou Shan to Zhou You. With a flash of understanding, he immediately started placing his bet online, staking a considerable amount.

When Shaoyi returned, he saw Zhou You waiting in the living room, with a manuscript by his side that seemed to be something he was editing.

Not only did Zhou You restore ancient manuscripts, but he also refined them using his expertise. Any text polished by his hands always moved up several notches in value.

"What are you working on now?"

Zhou You showed a particular palm movement, "It's a manual on palm techniques. I've studied many such manuals and found them quite similar. The real difference lies in the internal energy. I plan to focus on those related to internal cultivation next."

"Alright. You can use my access privileges. Use them before they get revoked."

Zhou You walked over, examining Shaoyi's face curiously, "Does it hurt?"

"It's a bit tingly. The doctor used a local anesthetic. They didn't want patients scratching and making things worse."

Zhou You frowned, pulling him upstairs, "Come on, it's time for your medication."

As the final round of the martial arts competition arrived, the warriors from the Southwest Base were the last to reach. Their large number, second only to the Dawn City, caused quite the stir.

"I heard Han Xi isn't competing this time!" This news devastated those who placed their bets on her.

"Why? Why? Why?"