Chapter 162: Testing The Octopus
The Apex relied heavily on micro-missiles for firepower. While effective for clearing out lesser threats, it was becoming insufficient against the increasingly formidable types of zombies and mutated creatures. The suit's firepower could only manage basic enemies; it lacked the lethality required for true challenges. "It's time to build the Apex Mk-2," Zack said, his tone solemn.
"Sir, the mechanical octopus prototype has been completed. Would you like it delivered?" Ego's voice chimed in suddenly.
"Already? That's fast," Zack said, glancing at the time. Three hours, exactly as promised.
"Send it over on a Avalon," Zack instructed. Soon, a Avalon arrived, switching to hover mode as it approached Zack's location. The hatch opened, revealing the cargo hold, where the mechanical octopus sat dormant, waiting to be activated.
Zack stepped inside, his gaze immediately drawn to the prototype. The mechanical octopus was compact, standing less than a meter tall, but its tentacles were strikingly long—each extending up to five meters and as thick as a human arm. The tentacles were coiled together, resembling a cluster of roots. "Activate it," Zack ordered after a quick inspection.
"System is activating..." The moment Ego confirmed activation, the mechanical octopus came to life. Its tentacles, which had been tangled and knotted, untwisted effortlessly and began moving with an eerie fluidity. The machine lifted itself upright, using its tentacles as support, and scanned its surroundings with its cluster of mechanical eyes.
As if to show deference, the octopus bent forward slightly in a gesture resembling a bow and emitted a series of high-frequency chirps. "Not bad," Zack said, watching the machine's performance. While primarily a patrol drone, the mechanical octopus was equipped with high AI capabilities, similar to the Titan. However, Zack had deliberately omitted a voice module, reasoning that communication wasn't necessary for an underwater machine. Signals were enough.
"How strong is it?" Zack mused, his curiosity piqued. Underwater combat posed unique challenges. Most conventional weapons lost their effectiveness or were significantly weakened. The mechanical octopus's primary attack method relied on close combat: strangling enemies with its tentacles or stabbing them with claw-like appendages. Both required immense physical strength.
"Let's test it," Zack said, extending his arm toward the octopus. As if understanding his command, several of the mechanical tentacles lashed out, wrapping tightly around his left arm like metallic pythons.