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Chapter 46 - Episode 46: A Junker Transformed

The original 6-cylinder engine had been upgraded to a V12, multiplying the horsepower several times over.

The front-wheel drive had been converted to all-wheel drive, improving handling and the ability to adapt to various terrains.

The outer shell had been replaced with a more robust alloy, and the frame reinforced to make the vehicle body as sturdy as a military transport vehicle.

New hydraulic rods had been added to the suspension system, controlled by an onboard intelligent program that not only stabilized performance but also added the function of "adjusting chassis height in real-time according to changing terrain."

The chassis was wider and longer, complementing the expanded body, which greatly increased the interior space.

Even with Shi Xiaolei height of over two meters, he wouldn't feel cramped or uncomfortable.

The interior had been replaced with a more premium setup, and additional high-end accessories that weren't originally included had been added: an onboard refrigerator, car television, premium sound system, and fully automatic sunroof.

Combined with a more sophisticated intelligent control system.

Without exaggeration, from every inch inside and out, front to back, top to bottom, probably only the car emblem remained from the original factory.

Stark had modified everything else.

"So, are you satisfied with the car?"

With his elbow propped on the hood, pointing back at the car he was leaning against, Stark raised his eyebrows smugly, just short of having "tell me you're impressed" written on his face.

"Satisfied? Of course I'm satisfied!"

Rubbing his hands together excitedly, Shi Xiaolei nodded.

"Tony, you're incredible. Honestly, I thought it was completely totaled and could never be fixed, but you not only repaired it, you transformed it into this. It's... it's just unbelievable."

"I am Tony Stark, after all."

Feeling extremely pleased, Stark smiled proudly.

Standing up straight and walking around to the back of the car, he patted the "]"-shaped rear end and said with a smile.

"Actually, there's one very special feature you haven't discovered yet. Let me show you."

Under Shi Xiaolei curious yet expectant gaze, Stark opened the trunk, lifted the soft mat covering the chassis, opened a small hidden compartment, and took out something like a remote control, pressing it lightly.

Support struts extended from beneath the chassis, stabilizing the vehicle.

The compartment began to disassemble and transform, and within seconds, it had resettled into a new configuration.

"What do you think? Inspired by my armor."

Patting the trunk area, which had expanded four or five times its original volume—equivalent to the size of two capsule hotel rooms combined—Stark proudly explained.

"One-button operation, fully automated deployment and retraction. With this, camping outdoors couldn't be easier."

If the previous modifications could still be measured in terms of money, this major alteration before his eyes was beyond what money could buy.

After all, the technology required for such functionality far exceeded what was available for civilian use.

"..."

Wide-eyed and utterly shocked, Shi Xiaolei never imagined Stark would invest so much in his car.

After being stunned for quite a while, he finally blinked with immense appreciation and suddenly shouted, jumping up.

"Holy crap, Tony, what is this? Wow, this, this, this... I'm speechless! It's so cool, it's incredible, man!"

"I knew you'd love it."

Holding his head high, Stark grew even more pleased with himself.

In a good mood and wanting some alcohol, Stark turned around and went to the small bar in the corner of the workshop.

He took out a bottle of well-preserved fine liquor and poured a glass for himself and Shi Xiaolei.

"Here, moments like this call for a drink. Cheers!"

"Tony, thank you."

Raising his glass and clinking it with Stark, Shi Xiaolei downed the drink.

Perhaps because the new car was so pleasing, even the foreign liquor that he usually didn't care for seemed to taste better.

Looking back at the car sitting under the lights, Shi Xiaolei felt a surge of excitement, already eager to take it out for a drive.

Of course, there's a difference between wanting and doing.

It wasn't like he could act on his impulse and leave immediately.

After all, this wasn't just grabbing a backpack and heading out; it was a self-driving road trip.

Before hitting the road, certain preparations had to be completed.

For instance, equipment needed for camping along the way, as well as food ingredients and seasonings for cooking outdoors—fresh vegetables, meat, and seafood weren't a concern.

Those could easily be purchased when passing through small towns, or Stark could use his "money power" to have them flown in.

The critical items were the dried goods used in Chinese cuisine and various Chinese seasonings, which couldn't be found on the road.

Even if he entrusted Stark to handle it, there was no guarantee he wouldn't get it wrong.

Additionally, he needed to visit the school to personally meet with Kanna teacher to request time off for her.

There was a high probability the request would be approved, but no guarantee.

If the school disagreed, or if they had already arranged other group activities where absence would be disadvantageous, then, to accommodate Kanna schedule, the departure date might need to be pushed back.

Finally, he needed to buy some clothes for unexpected situations.

Not hiking boots or mountaineering jackets—this was a road trip, visiting places accessible by car with minimal walking required, so there was no need for specialized functional clothing for hiking.

What needed to be prepared were some autumn and winter clothes for changing—when he arrived in this world, it was late spring/early summer, and over the months, whether for himself, 2B, or Kanna who arrived later, they had only purchased summer clothing with good breathability.

Now, as the weather gradually cooled. As the saying goes, "each autumn rain brings more cold" no one could guarantee they wouldn't encounter rain during their ten-day journey. So, to prepare for possible "sudden temperature drops," it was best to prepare some warmer clothes in advance.

He spent Saturday at Stark place and took the opportunity to drive the newly refurbished car back to his temporary apartment building.

The next day, Sunday, Shi Xiaolei took 2B and Kanna out for a major shopping trip.

Then, under little Kanna eager anticipation, time finally arrived at Monday.

"Kanna, are you ready?"

At Shi Xiaolei call, little Kanna put on her small backpack and pattered out of her room.

"I'm ready! Xiaolei, Xiaolei, let's go!"

Partly because Shi Xiaolei rarely took her to school himself, and partly because she knew today they'd be requesting time off from school before going on their trip, Kanna was clearly more excited than usual.

Bouncing around while holding Shi Xiaolei large hand, she looked even more adorable than usual.

"Okay, okay, let's go."

Smiling as he adjusted the ribbon on the little one head, Shi Xiaolei responded while calling toward the other room.

"Sylvia, hurry up, Kanna can't wait anymore."

(T/N: Like the story fellow daoist?you can read 20 chapters ahead on my P@treon [[email protected]/DaoistRongyi] Thanks for your support! 😊)

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