The southern construction zone of the underground base, near the Titan Project Center station.
Samuel Young, his sons, and six hunters disembarked from the train onto the platform through the open doors. The group then took an escalator up to the reception hall of the project center.
The space was vast, with a ceiling about 15 meters high, and the lighting was soft and bright, resembling the sunlight streaming through windows in the afternoon. In reality, the effect was created by holographic projection systems installed around the area, along with real green plants, to simulate a natural environment and sunlight.
In certain areas, the central hall resembled a "sunny" park. Since the production base was underground, employees could suffer from a lack of sunlight, leading to a deficiency in vitamin D. Additionally, being underground for extended periods could exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, or even claustrophobia.
To address these issues, the Engineering Division had installed virtual systems in the office, residential, and research areas to simulate an environment similar to the surface. The company also provided ample vacation time each month to help employees relieve stress.
At that moment, a researcher with slicked-back hair, dressed in a black uniform, approached Samuel and his group, his face showing signs of excitement. Extending his right hand, he said:
"Titan Project Director, Wang Jieran. Welcome!"
"There's no need to be nervous," Samuel smiled as he shook Wang's hand. After the handshake, Samuel headed toward the main workshop and continued, "I'm not here for an inspection, just to take a look. I have complete confidence in your abilities; that's why I entrusted you with full responsibility for this project."
Wang Jieran followed closely, trying to steady his breathing. He replied, "I know, but... the nerves are inevitable. Ever since you handed the project over to me, I've been worried about messing up or some unnecessary accident happening."
"Take it step by step," Samuel paused, glancing at Wang from the corner of his eye. "Your grandfather made plenty of mistakes when he first started working for the company too. You shouldn't be afraid of mistakes or failure, but rather learn from and acknowledge your shortcomings. This is a reminder from me as your grandfather's friend, but I hope I don't have to say this again when we meet next time. Understand?"
Upon hearing this, Wang Jieran's expression became more serious as he solemnly replied, "Yes, boss."
"Good."
Samuel didn't say anything further but gave Wang a reassuring pat on the shoulder.
Meanwhile, Dorn, walking behind them, noticed they were leaving the reception hall and heading down a corridor leading to the main workshop. He leaned toward Vulcan and whispered:
"Hey, what do you think the Titan Project is?"
"No idea," Vulcan shrugged, responding bluntly.
"Can't you guess?" Dorn tapped Vulcan's arm and shared his own theory. "Titan... it sounds like a robot to me."
"Oh? If you say so, then I guess it's a robot," Vulcan chuckled in agreement.
"Probably one of those tall, strong ones."
"Yeah, definitely."
"Maybe it even needs a pilot… wait! Oh no, I suddenly want a mech toy, but I already told Dad I wanted building blocks..." Dorn muttered in frustration.
Seeing his brother worry unnecessarily, Vulcan offered a suggestion: "I happen to want some building blocks myself. How about I ask Dad for a mech toy, and we can trade?"
!
Dorn immediately nodded at the idea but hesitated just before speaking, eventually shaking his head. "You don't like building blocks. You prefer all kinds of toy hammers. I don't get what's fun about hammers, but forget it. I'll just ask Dad next time."
As they spoke, the brothers followed the group out of the enclosed corridor and into an open area with large observation windows on both sides.
Through the windows, they saw that the corridor was positioned above the main workshop. They could also see massive 3D printers, automated robotic arms, and...
Were those the "robots" they had just been talking about?!
!!
Dorn and Vulcan's eyes widened, and they quickly covered their mouths to stifle a "Wow!" so as not to disturb their father or the adults around them.
The "robot" they saw, still unpainted, had half of its body hanging on the right side of a support frame, while the other half was still under construction. The 3D printers and robotic arms were busy manufacturing the necessary modules and components.
This was the full scope of the Titan Project—Titan Combat Mechs.
Samuel stopped walking and stood in the elevated corridor to observe.
From the completed sections, the appearance and size bore many similarities to the Jaegers from Pacific Rim, such as the head-mounted cockpit and the unique four-arm design.
These Titans were part of Atlas' large-scale mech project, combining the proposed "Sixth-Generation Jaeger Plan" from the Pan-Pacific Defense Corps and detailed data from the previous five generations of Jaegers.
Powered by a fusion reactor and electric turbine systems, the Titans also featured advanced neural link technology that significantly improved stability among multiple pilots.
They were equipped with ship-grade Ti-Ta alloy frames and protective armor, along with magnetic levitation balancing devices in the legs, shoulders, and other areas to enhance mobility on land, preventing the mechs from becoming immobile or slow-moving targets on Earth or other Earth-like planets.
Once completed, the Titan mechs would have weaponry far superior to Jaegers, including handheld plasma pulse cannons or Gauss guns, shoulder, chest, and back-mounted close-in defense guns, and large rocket pods.
Their primary melee weapon was still in the research phase—a plasma blade held together by electromagnetic force.
While on paper, the environments in which Titan mechs could be effectively used were limited, Samuel only planned to build two units in preparation for potential scenarios.
"Boss," Wang Jieran reported from beside him, "Titan 001 is expected to be completed by October 20th of this year, and 002 by April 1st of next year, with a production time of around four months."
"Very good. Use this time to gain experience. It will greatly help with your future work in the Research Division," Samuel reminded.
"I understand," Wang replied, unconsciously standing up straighter.
"Now, go about your business. We'll take a look around on our own."
"Yes, sir."
With that, Wang Jieran turned and left.
Samuel then looked at his two sons and asked, "Do you want to stop by Akra's mall later and check out some toys?"
"Of course!" Dorn responded quickly.
"Sure," Vulcan smiled casually.
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