As the day of the Power Struggle Battle drew nearer, the attitudes of countries toward foreign relations became increasingly sensitive and cautious. Even the slightest movements were promptly noticed by the higher echelons, especially the incident between Hell's Gate and Zana. Although it ended up being much ado about nothing, the firm stances of both sides unmistakably emitted a strong scent of gunpowder. At this moment, even countries that typically engaged in close diplomatic relations had limited interactions.

While nations were cautious about sensitive topics externally, the common people, over time, jubilantly immersed themselves in this era of prosperity. Common talking points shifted from the top mecha pilots of major countries to the middle and small powers, such as this or that neutral state or chieftaincy.

These middle and small powers might not be strong, generally neutral, and not included in the FCA alliance's permanent council members or possible to be a part of the Empire Alliance. Nevertheless, their technological development did not fall short of any country. Additionally, their average GDP was often at the forefront of the world. Compared to some countries with wealthy governments but impoverished citizens, their standard of living was unimaginably better.

In technology, education, and cultural literacy, they were far ahead, having had ample time from birth to plan their life trajectories, to do whatever they wanted without worrying about retirement or healthcare expenses. After all, healthcare was free, and property belonged to the government welfare system, also granting permanent land ownership rights—no wonder so many lovers of freedom wanted to immigrate to these smaller countries. In reality, it was the welfare systems that compelled people, a truly democratic country offering not just political and spiritual rights freedom, but also considering the next generation.

Large forces, however, painted a different picture—in appearance shiny and harmonious internally, yet rife with bureaucratic corruption and dense as smoke. In this era of technological explosion, the shortage of talent and slow progression of technology were precisely due to the nepotism that prevented real talent from being utilized.

The old saying, "Princes and generals have their own kind," no longer fits the current trend. The unbridgeable wealth gap, the vicious cycle under the selfish interests and checks and balances of power...

There were very few who managed to turn their fate around, lucky and perhaps also unfortunate. They might have worked harder and sweat more than others, or they might not have done more yet were despised for achieving a high status.

Yet, in an age where poverty is scorned and prostitution is not, hard work is rarely acknowledged by most. Despite wealth envy being a common affliction, people devour what's in their bowl while eyeing the pot, mocking the poor and envying the rich, all possibly stemming from complaints or the pursuit of money.

For money, they choose to kneel without bottom lines, turning their back on their initial aspirations. Once accustomed to such a position, they no longer wish to stand; as heroes are eliminated, the inept prevail, and when calls for justice are muffled, even the remnants of doubt are deemed sinful.

The idea that 'the bigger stores bully customers' is an ancient adage and is no exception among forces. Compared to the traditional systems of large countries, the diverse development philosophies of middle and small forces are more favored by the public because from a young age, they focus on one thing, be it the mecha field, gaming strategies, or something else entirely.

With a few days spent surfing the internet, you'd discover that aside from powerful warriors like Revenge Shadow Rider, most of the game strategies and extreme operations come from small forces. This isn't a matter of potential or ability, as in fact, you're already far behind from the starting line.

Yes, when you are at school, they may not necessarily be attending school. They might be mastering games, conducting live streams, or studying some computer issue. And by the time you graduate from college ready to pursue your dreams, you'll suddenly realize that they are already far ahead of you...

Therefore, it's only logical for the public to turn their attention to other middle and small forces, which might very well become the dark horses during the Power Struggle Battle.

In these days, federal cities, big and small, have plunged into a sea of jubilation. Even if you can't make it to Dragon Gate Space Station No. 17, you can cheer for your favorite warrior in your own way.

Take Sky Shadow, for example. Besides Revenge Shadow Rider, Sky Shadow holds an unrivaled status in the Federation. He's the most promising among the 12-star generals, and Dovir is a touch of genius that emerged in recent years. Then comes the pop star Athena. It's undeniable that even Athena can't overshadow the aura of a super warrior in a Mecha Battle.

Currently, many inland troops are also in a state of complete rest and recuperation. In fact, it's nothing more than sending some warmth and welfare to the warriors, with only a few elite troops never relaxing their vigilance, one of which is the Blazing Legion.

At Mardis battle sector, Blazing Legion military residence, resounding numbers were called out tirelessly from dawn till dusk. The struggling warriors didn't slack off a bit, with hand-to-hand combat, shooting, physical training, and modern military knowledge already a part of their weekly mandatory training schedule.

"At ease, attention, dress right, eyes front, dismissed!" John cast a cold eye towards nearly a hundred officers and said, "Rest for 10 minutes, and reassemble here after ten minutes."

After a long half-hour run, John finally ordered a ten-minute rest on the spot. Hearing the dismissal, the officers, bulging with their corruption bellies, were indeed exhausted from his antics. Dammit, what's the point in dragging everyone out like this for no reason? Although these officers were juniors, they were still officers, not soldiers.

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