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 …