Pretending to be a genius starts with the civilization advancement assessment.

Chapter 223 The Three-Year Term is Gone (5.6K)

"Please see, this is a 'Elite Pioneer' standard solution that we have carefully tailored based on your company's scale of 5,000 people."

Consultant Chen's voice rang out, tinged with pride.

He raised his hand and waved it, and in the void, light seemed to be kneaded by an invisible hand, quickly condensing into a shape.

The first thing to appear was a warship with sharp lines and a length of about five kilometers.

Its entire body is dark gray, with a deep blue energy crystal that pulsates slowly like a living thing embedded in the bow. The sides of the ship are outlined with complex energy conduction patterns, and a sense of killing intent is overwhelming.

"This is the 'Borei' assault ship, which is recommended as your group's flagship and command center."

Old Chen explained, "It is equipped with a 'Deep Blue Pulse-V Type' large-scale energy source furnace, which delivers powerful and stable energy output."

Its primary weapon is a single-mounted 'Judicator' heavy energy shock cannon, and its secondary weapons consist of eighty octet 'Thunder Arrow' rapid-fire energy turrets. It also possesses a close-in weapon system, a force field generator, unmanned surface vessel attack platforms, and is equipped with a full-coverage 'Prism' force field shield.

As he spoke, the scene shifted, and everyone seemed to be instantly pulled into the command bridge of the warship.

A huge, curved observation window stretched out in front of them, with various data streams flashing with source energy runes flowing across the virtual control panel.

Immediately afterwards, the simulated battle began. Suddenly, the deep blue crystal on the bow of the ship burst out with a dazzling azure light, and a thick, destructive torrent of energy roared out, instantly vaporizing and annihilating a distant asteroid.

At the same time, a three-dimensional energy shield, interwoven like rhomboid crystals, appeared around the ship, steadily blocking the simulated dense energy attack from the "enemy," creating ripples but remaining as solid as a rock.

"Its shield is strong enough to withstand the full force of a low-level Star Domain expert for a short period of time without breaking. The engine supports short-to-medium-range jumps and is the core and source of the team's confidence. Price: 15 million Star Crystals."

After careful observation, Irelia whispered to Lin Yi, "Commander, the North Wind has well-balanced performance and a perfect command system, making it very suitable as a flagship."

Lin Yi's gaze was deep. He looked at the North Wind-class warship and then nodded in approval.

He had already recognized it; the massive warship belonging to the Ziles family back then was the North Wind class.

Then, another warship, about two kilometers long and with a sharper shape, appeared beside them, resembling a drawn sword.

"This is the 'Sharp Edge' assault ship, a high-speed assault force for the fleet, boasting powerful firepower and excellent maneuverability. Unit price: five million star crystals."

Then, the silhouette of a ship, which was noticeably larger and heavier, came into view.

"The 'Guardian' escort ships focus on area defense and fire support, providing reliable flank protection for flagships and assault ships. Each ship: two million star crystals."

In addition, Lao Chen also demonstrated a multi-functional integrated supply ship, a dedicated personnel transport ship, and an engineering ship equipped with a large power source repair arm.

Lin Yi and Irelia exchanged a glance, then Lin Yi said, “We need one Borei-class assault ship, five Sharp Assault ships, fifteen Guardian escort ships, two supply ships, two transport ships, and one repair ship.”

Old Chen chuckled as he wrote it down, then with a wave of his hand, the scene instantly shifted, and the group appeared on an alien battlefield filled with jagged rocks and strange abandoned buildings.

"Individual soldier equipment is an extension of a soldier's life."

As Old Chen spoke, several sets of combat equipment, all with the same style but different details, quickly took shape in front of everyone.

The first thing shown is the equipment of basic combat personnel.

A set of form-fitting armor with a streamlined aesthetic suddenly appeared out of thin air.

This suit of armor is made of dark bio-energy polymer with subtle, scale-like adaptive patterns that fit snugly against the lines of the human body's muscles.

"This is the 'Raging Tide' general-purpose battle armor, suitable for Star Core-level combat personnel."

As soon as Old Chen finished speaking, the energy patterns on the surface of the armor lit up instantly, forming an almost invisible active energy film that covered the entire body.

"Its built-in 'Tidal' miniature energy circulation system provides basic to moderate boosts to strength, speed, and reaction time. It is also equipped with a shield generator that can activate an energy shield that can effectively resist early-stage Star Core level attacks and significantly buffer and deflect attacks from mid-stage Star Core level attacks."

"The Raging Tide Basic Set includes an adaptive armor, twenty-one common melee weapons, energy-based firearms, and basic tactical accessories, priced at three million star coins."

Next, Old Chen demonstrated the "Raging Tide" suit used on the Star Swirl class. Its armor material resembled flowing liquid metal, subtly changing color according to the user's elemental characteristics. The energy patterns on the armor flickered like breathing, full of spirituality.

"The Raging Wave Armor resonates more deeply with the user, greatly amplifying the speed of condensing and releasing the power of rules. Its 'Domain' shield activator can even briefly withstand a surprise attack from a Star Vortex-level opponent. A single set costs 3 Star Crystals."

In addition, there is the "Weilan" series of general support kits, which focus on functionality and basic protection for non-frontline combat personnel such as logistics, technical, and medical personnel, with a unit price of approximately 50 Star Dollars.

As previously agreed, Lin Yi purchased 20 sets of Raging Waves, 2500 sets of Furious Waves, and 2500 sets of Slight Waves, along with various engineering tools, medical equipment, tactical accessories, and so on.

Soon, the mercenary group's equipment was largely finalized, followed by the planetary defense system.

The scene shifted again, and the group appeared on a pale blue planet.

"Look, the 'Guardian God-V' planetary defense matrix." Old Chen's voice was solemn.

On the planet's synchronous orbit, six lotus-shaped orbital fortresses, seemingly cast from metal and crystal, slowly rotated.

At its core, the giant energy condenser was steadily drawing energy from the void, emitting a chilling energy fluctuation.

Suddenly, the simulated attack began.

Dozens of thick, destructive energy beams, comparable to the full-force attack of a Star-level Perfected expert, shot out from different angles in the distant void like the spears of death.

Instantly, the six orbital fortresses shone brightly, and countless more condensed beams of source energy shot out from the "petals," rapidly intertwining around the planet to form a massive energy shield covering the entire planet.

boom! boom!
The destructive energy beam slammed into the "planetary barrier," unleashing a blinding flash.

Energy ripples violently spread across the shield's surface, and geometric energy patterns flickered wildly, distributing the destructive impact evenly throughout the entire shield system.

The shield is like the toughest rubber; even after being violently deformed, it stubbornly returns to its original shape, firmly blocking all attacks.

At the same time, thousands of energy projectors, resembling spires, rose from the ground, their tops shooting out condensed energy beams that, like precise swords, pierced the direction of the attack, effectively deterring and counterattacking.

"This enhanced 'Guardian-V' system's 'Planetary Barrier' can effectively defend against the combined attacks of more than ten Star-level Perfection experts for a long time."

The core 'Prophet' wide-area psionic detection network can detect early-stage star-domain beings, providing civilizations with the highest level of early warning and at least one hour of preparation time.

Old Chen solemnly introduced, "The entire system, including six orbital fortresses, 1,200 ground-based amplification counterattack matrices, a planetary detection network, and a core command center buried deep underground, is priced at 20 million star crystals."

Lin Yi exchanged opinions with Li Yue and Irelia and decided to buy the defensive equipment.

After finalizing the three core bulk purchases—main warships, individual soldier equipment, and planetary defense systems—Advisor Chen's smile grew even brighter.

"Commander Lin Yi, the equipment you have chosen are all reliable products that have been tested by the market."

Old Chen enthusiastically added, "To help your team quickly achieve combat readiness, in addition to the standard basic equipment and materials, our chamber of commerce will provide a complete set of advanced virtual training tutorials, covering all basic subjects from individual weapon operation to fleet coordinated operations. Furthermore…"

He paused, then smiled and said, "Considering your guild is newly established, you must have a need for more advanced tactics and rules. Within my personal authority, I can also apply for an additional 'Starry Sea Barrier' advanced virtual training tutorial package for you, worth approximately 300,000 star crystals. This includes advanced combat tactics suitable for Star Core and Star Vortex level mercenaries, simulations of rule domain applications, and contingency plans for handling special situations in complex environments. I hope it will be helpful to you."

Three hundred thousand star crystals is no small sum; this old consultant Chen is clearly trying to curry favor.

Lin Yi nodded slightly and accepted the offer readily: "Then thank you very much, Consultant Chen."

"It should, it should."

Old Chen waved his hand repeatedly and then asked, "Besides these large items, do you think we need to purchase some auxiliary supplies? For example, a portable login device for the Pan-Spirit Alliance virtual network that makes communication easier? Or some regular resources that can assist in cultivation and quickly restore source energy? Our Chamber of Commerce has ample supplies and fair prices."

Lin Yi pondered for a moment and concluded that it was indeed necessary.

After a brief discussion, based on the current situation on Earth, the two ordered an additional 6,000 portable virtual network launchers, a large quantity of universal energy crystals suitable for stardust-level to star core-level systems, various potions, and 20 small personal spaceships suitable for rapid squad mobility and reconnaissance capabilities.

After purchasing the equipment, Lin Yi was about to discuss payment when Li Yue suddenly said, "Guild Leader, you still haven't bought a personal vehicle. It should at least be of Starfield level."

Old Chen's eyes lit up upon hearing this, and he quickly introduced, "We have the latest model of the 'Flashlight' personal spaceship. Although it's not large, its engine technology is top-notch, its short-range warp drive capability is extremely strong, and its shield and stealth performance are also quite excellent. It perfectly meets the mobility requirements of a star-domain level expert, and is very suitable for reconnaissance, pursuit, or as a commander's vehicle. The only downside is the price... it's a bit expensive, requiring 500 million star crystals." This price is enough to buy nearly ten ordinary frigates.

Li Yue nodded slightly and said to Lin Yi, "That's not bad."

Lin Yi gave Li Yue a deep look, then nodded and said, "Okay, I'll take it."

With this, all procurement projects have been finalized.

The total cost, including major equipment, miscellaneous items, and personal vehicles, reached approximately 80 million star crystals.

"Great, Commander Lin Yi, all items have been entered into the order."

Old Chen operated the interface and finally confirmed, "So, regarding the delivery method, which one would you like to choose? We offer four options."

He explained in detail: "First, 'Self-pickup,' where you send someone to our designated deep-space warehouse to collect the goods. Second, 'Regular Delivery,' via the stargate network, handled by our regular transport fleet; delivery time is uncertain, but the freight is included in the payment. Third, 'Express Delivery,' delivered directly through the divine kingdom channel network established by our chamber of commerce in cooperation with the eternal deities of space laws; extremely fast, and because they are all non-living entities, only an additional delivery fee of 1000 million star crystals is required. Fourth, 'Instant Delivery.'"

When it came to the last option, Old Chen's expression became somewhat subtle, even carrying a hint of dissuasion: "This... according to regulations, I must inform you. 'Instant Delivery' can theoretically achieve near-instantaneous cross-star system delivery, but the cost is extremely high. Based on the total value of your shipment, the delivery fee is approximately 2 million star crystals. To be honest, I don't really recommend you choose this option."

2 million Star Crystals!
Lin Yi's heart skipped a beat.

All his goods combined only amounted to a little over 80 million star crystals, yet the delivery fee was more than double the value of the goods!
In his previous life, he had spent many years wandering the stars and had only heard rumors of "Instant Delivery," which was said to involve the great power of gods, but he had never seen it with his own eyes, let alone used it.

This price is indeed beyond his current means.

Self-pickup is out of the question; Blue Star simply doesn't have that capability right now.

While regular delivery is free, it relies on stargates and conventional navigation, which takes too long. Lin Yi estimates it won't be much faster than the Purple Gold Star Alliance's guiding fleet; it would take at least thirty years.
"I wonder how fast it will be delivered," Lin Yi thought to himself.

In his previous life, he was not of high enough status and had never used such high-end logistics services, so he was unsure whether spending 1000 million star crystals was worthwhile.

Just then, Li Yue suddenly spoke up, "Advisor Chen, is the delivery speed of the Human Race's territory similar to that of the top merchant guilds within our Spirit Race's territory? As long as it's within the territory's coverage area, is delivery guaranteed within a standard year?"

Upon hearing this, Old Chen's face flashed with embarrassment, and he chuckled dryly, "Hehe, you flatter me, esteemed guest. The Spirit Race's 'Path of Life' network is indeed unparalleled in the Pan-Spirit Alliance, and our Human Race still needs to work harder in this regard. However, please rest assured that the Divine Kingdom network established by our Chamber of Commerce has already covered the entire territory of the Human Race, and we guarantee delivery within three standard years!"

Upon hearing this, Li Yue nodded slightly, seemingly approving of the speed.

She turned to Lin Yi and suggested, "Commander, although it's a bit slower than within our Spirit Clan, within the human territory, delivering such a large quantity of supplies across the endless star sea in three years is quite remarkable. I personally suggest choosing the faster delivery option."

Upon hearing this, Lin Yi's heart stirred. This clan leader was not only decisive in his actions, but also very tactful in giving advice at crucial moments, pointing out the key points while fully respecting Lin Yi's final decision-making authority as the clan leader.

He increasingly felt that choosing the Hina family as an ally was a very wise decision.

With that in mind, Lin Yi no longer hesitated and said to Old Chen, "We'll choose express delivery. The delivery coordinates are..."

He provided a suitable space coordinate near Earth.

Old Chen wrote it down with a smile, "Please rest assured, we will use the most professional packaging and protection to ensure that all materials pass through the divine passage without any problems. It is expected that you will be able to receive this batch of goods at the designated coordinates within three years."

After finishing all their business, the three of them did not linger. After politely bidding farewell to the Liyue clan chief in the virtual space, Lin Yi and Irelia's consciousness returned to reality.

In the reception room, Lin Yi opened his eyes. Without a moment's delay, he immediately gave Xuanji the order: "Xuanji, in my name, issue a recruitment notice for the mercenary group through the Blue Star Community Merit System and all public information channels."

After all, there is only a maximum of three years to prepare, so time is tight.

Soon, a prominent notification appeared on the personal terminal of every eligible individual.

[The Pioneer of Civilization Project Launched – Recruitment Notice for the First Batch of Members of the Dongfeng Mercenary Group]

Mission: To pave the way for civilization and clear the path for the future. The Dongfeng Mercenary Group, as the first spearhead of Blue Star civilization's journey into the stars, is now officially recruiting its first batch of members globally.

Our goal: the stars and the sea.

Expected departure time: 3 years from now.

Recruitment requirements:

Formal combat members: Must reach the Star Core level and possess independent interstellar survival and combat capabilities.

Prospective members must reach the Stardust level and master at least one combat skill or special ability rated as 'Masterful Skill', possessing good potential and a firm will.

Special Reminder (Please read carefully):
The journey to the stars is fraught with both opportunities and dangers. This journey may lead us directly to the unknown, traversing light-years. Given that the theoretical lifespan of a Stardust-level being is approximately 1000 standard years, during the expedition, if one cannot break through to the Star Core level, or due to mission or environmental factors, it may be a one-way trip. All interested parties are urged to carefully weigh their own circumstances, fully communicate with their families, and proceed only within their capabilities.

Registration is now open.

This conscription order instantly caused a huge uproar within the planet Earth.

"The Dongfeng Mercenary Group! It was personally established by Commander Lin Yi!"

"Only those at the Star Core level can become official members. I'm still far from that level."

"Stardust level is acceptable? But the requirement of mastering a special skill is not low either."

"Gone and never to return. That's a really creepy thing to say."

Some were filled with excitement and eager to try; some calmly analyzed and assessed themselves; and some, upon seeing the words "never to return," fell into deep thought and fear of the unknown.

Just then, on the "Source Martial Arts Forum," the most widely used forum among Source Energy users on Blue Star, a post was pushed to the front page at an astonishing speed, its title highlighted in red and bold instantly catching everyone's attention:
If I go and never return, then so be it!

The poster is a user with the ID "Meteor's Will". Judging from his past posts, he is a veteran who lost an arm in the apocalyptic war, but rose again with his tenacious will and mechanical prosthetics. He is now stuck at the eighth level of the Stardust level for many years.

He wrote in the post:
"Brothers, did you see the conscription notice? Did you see that line, 'Never to return'?"
Am I scared? To be honest, a little. Who doesn't want to live a peaceful and stable life?

But what am I more afraid of?
What I fear even more is that, hundreds of years from now, when I am old and lying on my sickbed, looking back on this day, I will regret missing this door to the stars and the eternal peace that would have opened for future generations because of my cowardice and hesitation.

Commander Lin Yi led us out of the apocalypse and created a miracle.

Now, he has presented us with an opportunity.

A lifespan of a thousand years at the Stardust level? If you can't break through that, you'll just end up as a handful of dust! Rather than eking out a thousand years on this tiny planet and watching your lifespan come to an end, why not gamble your life on the vastness of the stars?
If there's truly no turning back once we go, then we won't turn back!
With my crippled body, I will light a star for civilization ahead; with the rest of my life, I will witness the vastness of the universe.

Isn't this a thousand times more pleasant than dying of old age in bed?
I have submitted my application to become a prospective member.

If there are like-minded people, let's meet again in the starry sea three years from now!

If we go and never return, then so be it!
This post, every word is powerful and resounding, filled with a resolute determination to risk everything and an infinite longing for the stars.

It accurately struck a chord with many Source Warriors who were stuck at a bottleneck and yearned to break through, or who were unwilling to be ordinary and were willing to dedicate themselves to civilization.

"Well said! I'll take the blame too! It's just one life, right? I'll gamble!"

"Count me in! Stardust level 8, ultimate skill 'Melting Rift', applying for reserve duty!"

"It's getting me all fired up! Even though I'm at Stardust Level 8, I don't have any special skills. When's the deadline for registration? I'm going to give it one last shot. Of course, if I don't make it, I'll be happy to be a cleaner in the logistics department!"

"Salute! This is the spirit that we humans on Earth should have!"

The comments below the post exploded instantly, with countless people agreeing, following, and paying tribute.

A sense of heroic spirit, "I will go even if there are thousands of people against me," began to spread throughout the Blue Star.

Many eligible people made up their minds and clicked on the registration link because of this post.

(End of this chapter)