Ash’s curiosity about the wider universe became insatiable. The virtual realm he accessed was like a vast ocean, holding almost anything one could imagine. Here, he could find tools, machines, and most importantly, knowledge. Quickly, he went from hesitant explorer to someone who knew the ropes of this virtual domain.
Rune had been mysteriously absent for days. Every time Ash logged into the virtual network, Rune vanished.
Ash’s favorite spot was a sprawling district called Guteisda. It offered everything a Mech enthusiast could want: parts, customizations, and people with expertise. Many engineers and seasoned pilots frequented Guteisda to share insights and display the newest designs. A collection of advanced Mech data was available there too, a treasure trove Ash eagerly explored. The experienced engineers appreciated his eagerness, often going out of their way to mentor him.
With a solid foundation from his father’s teachings, Ash absorbed the new knowledge quickly. The engineers soon recognized his rapid learning and became even more willing to help.
One evening, returning home, Ash slipped into Rune’s cockpit and put on his battle helmet. While he enjoyed the virtual world, he knew Garbage Planet 12 was his real home. The danger of the scrapyard meant he couldn’t afford to get too attached to anything virtual.
Ash logged in and headed directly to Guteisda. But he hadn’t even caught his breath when Rune’s voice suddenly filled his mind. “Ash, I want to take you somewhere.”
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Ash was puzzled. “Where?”
“You’ll see,” Rune replied, guiding him through the network.
Following Rune’s directions, Ash arrived at a bustling building. “What is this place?”
Rune explained, “This is the Pilot Neural Training Center. It offers comprehensive neural reflex training. Your self-taught skills need refinement, and after evaluating the training modules here, I estimate it would boost your abilities considerably.”
“Neural training?” Ash echoed.
“It’s formally called Neuro-Reflexive Training. The program instills nerve-based memory for specific maneuvers. You’ll still need real-world practice to perfect them, but it shortens the learning curve.”
Ash nodded. Rune was seldom wrong.
The Pilot Neural Training Center was a part of the infrastructure provided by the Farr Quadrant Pilot Association. Ash walked through the hall, finding numerous columns. Each time someone approached a column, they vanished in a flash of light.
No longer a novice, Ash strode confidently to a nearby column, tapping it to reveal a translucent display.
“This is divided into three sections,” Rune explained: “Fundamentals, Advanced Training, and Combat Zone. Let’s start with Combat Zone.”
With Rune’s voice still lingering, Ash scanned the list of available combat rooms and selected one.
In an instant, he found himself facing a black Mech. Recognizing it instantly as a beginner’s model, Ash couldn’t help feeling a bit underwhelmed. His Mech, though modest, was leagues better than what he was used to back on Garbage Planet.
But as he was taking it in, Ash noticed his opponent’s Mech—a stunning, fiery red machine called the Phoenix II. Sleek and powerful, it was leagues beyond his current model. Yet despite its glamorous exterior, Ash couldn’t help but think all those wings were just added weight, especially in a fight.
The signal to begin snapped him back to the present. Ash steeled himself and launched into action.