Reboot: Mechanic

The field in front of Shi Tian appeared deceptively ordinary, but he knew better than to underestimate the traps that Mary had set. 

With a cautious expression, he took a deep breath and prepared himself for the challenge ahead.

As he started moving, he focused his attention on the ground beneath his feet. 

Each step was calculated, and his senses heightened to detect any signs of danger. The terrain seemed harmless at first, but he knew that a single misstep could have serious consequences.

'Mary isn't the joking type when she acts in such a cold demeanor. If only I knew what types of traps were laid in the field.' Shi Tian exclaimed inwardly.

The only information he had in hand was that there are traps laid in the field, and it was hard for him to imagine that she was able to place multiple traps in such a short amount of time.

Nevertheless, he could only grit his teeth and accept whatever obstacles were thrown at him.

As he ventured forward, Shi Tian noticed subtle irregularities in the ground. 

Small pressure plates, disguised as patches of grass or dirt, revealed themselves upon closer inspection. He could sense the presence of hidden mechanisms waiting to be triggered.

Carefully maneuvering through the field, he used his agility and quick reflexes to his advantage. 

With each step, he instinctively avoided the traps, sidestepping pressure plates and dodging concealed snares.

Mary observed his progress with a critical eye, analyzing his footwork, speed, and decision-making. 

She noted his ability to adapt, adjusting his stride to avoid traps on the fly. His natural instincts and physical prowess impressed her, hinting at his untapped potential.

"What a shame though, his movement is too slow," Mary muttered, shaking her head.

And sure enough, the very next moment, Shi Tian somehow triggered a trap.

"Crap…" Shi Tian was dumbfounded that this particular trap was a double-layered one. Alas, there was nothing else he could do besides feeling a powerful gush of force, propelling him backward. 

With two arms covering the front, Shi Tian received the impact blast and returned to his starting position, albeit further. 

Mary clapped her hand softly and went toward him. From behind though, she left some mirage images, proving that her movement speed was no joke. 

"Not bad, Nathan. To be able to go that far should be considered great… for a buffoon that is." Mary smiled coldly. She had no intention of complimenting him whatsoever, even if he does have some untapped potential waiting to be unleashed. 

As of right now, Shi Tian was no different than a diamond covered in the rough. 

Shi Tian patted his clothes which were covered in dirt from the previous impact and held a calm composure.

"Thanks for the guidance. I shall do my best again." He cupped his fist and said. Not an ounce of resentment could be seen in his face nor the sound of his tone. 

"Again? Aren't you afraid that your gas mask might break from continuously being blasted by the impact? If the gas mask breaks, then oxygen would soon go loose and you will inhale the hazardous air or other substances." Mary sneered coldly, clearly trying to frighten him. 

She wasn't afraid to train a newbie, but she was most afraid of training a coward that would be of no help when the crucial time came. Cowardly people have no existence in her perspective. 

Shi Tian chuckled a bit and pointed at the Iron Sentinel that was stationed afar. "Didn't we have two extra gas masks in the storage compartment? Why would I be afraid of damaging the gas mask then?" 

"Hmph, those gas masks aren't used for your training, but as a safety backup. Do you think these gas masks are easy to manufacture?" 

"Well, even if there are no gas masks available, I still wished to continue the training." 

Mary narrowed her eyes and glared at Shi Tian. She was examining his behavior and personality. 

A few seconds later, she nodded her head, "Fine, if you insist on continuing the training, then the traps shall be different this time as well. I just hope your action will be the same as your determination." 

To be totally honest, Mary really didn't want to train Shi Tian, but Isaac Aaronax insisted on this matter and urged her to train him. Thus, she wanted to test Shi Tian's character whether or not he was worthy to be trained.

Training would only be fruitful if the other party had the determination and courage to improve themselves. If the other party had no intention, then no matter what training they go through, there would be zero improvement. 

"Thank you for your effort, Mary." Shi Tian gave his thanks. 

He knew Mary didn't seem to like him ever since they met in the apartment complex. It was pretty obvious when one could see a slight annoyance emitting from her, especially when she was trying to probe for his information.

After all, they could only be considered acquaintances at best, so being in charge of training him would result in slight discontent. 

"No need to thank me. I'm going to improve the traps I will lay, so if you truly want to thank me, get past this obstacle first." Mary waved her hand and said. 

A few minutes later, she finished setting up the traps and once again instructed Shi Tian to do the same.

Shi Tian nodded his head and began to dash forward, confronting this new obstacle course.

The training continued for what felt like hours, with Shi Tian facing increasingly complex challenges. 

The traps became more sophisticated, some triggered by sound, others by proximity. Yet, he persevered, his determination unyielding.

Occasionally, he stumbled upon a trap, causing him to be propelled backward by a sudden burst of air or a hidden spring mechanism. 

However, he quickly recovered, using his athleticism to regain his balance and continue the course.

His clothes were completely filled with dirt from the knockback, but that never stopped him from giving up. 

"Truly a buffoon…" Mary mumbled softly, shaking her head.