Hey guys! RGQC back here with another chapter of this story, I asked what you guys think Lucia, Luna and Penny would find in the hidden room and man, do you guys make clear what you all wanted to see in this chapter. But allow me to tally up the total number of votes before we move on to reviews.
So here are the results.
Out of the 19 votes in the reviews, at least 8 of ya voted for all of the above. This is then followed by a tie between the Construct programme and motorbike with 4 votes each. Nanomachines come with 3 followed by 3D printing tech with 2 votes and poor personal Jet with no votes. Oof.
Anyways with all of the above winning here, I will do my best to integrate all five ideas into the story and let us see how it goes yeah? But allow me to address some of the comments in the last chapter which are not votes.
Nova1233: Oh yes, that makes logical sense. Hopefully, I can implement something like your suggestion in the future. I'll keep it in the back of my mind for further reference in the future.
Enki7794: Hehe. Ugly frog doll.
Nawoc: Thanks! And I hope you keep enjoying my stories as well!
Warlord of Chaos: Funnily enough, that is what I was going for. I wanted to show how Alpha is well… a super prototype that nobody can make copies of thanks to Dr Kurt's passing. And how others like Watts failed to get the same result. And I'm going to make her even more broken in this chapter lol.
Yolo27th: Thanks! I will keep pumping out more chapters to keep the story going. Hope to see you in the review again.
Singular Ash: This means a whole lot to me. I understand that self-inserts can get cringy and I have seen my fair share of them. But I anyways want to delve into the genre and make my spin on it. Thus, this story was born with an android SI. (And partially because of me playing Punishing Gray Raven.) And yes, I do need to work on my commas. Hopefully, this chapter is much better.
dragon slayer of death 98: Giving Alpha and Luna another sibling, eh? Interesting… You might have given me an interesting idea. The idea of Penny getting another sister is heart-warming indeed. But I do not wish for them to participate in the Vytal Festival. Power creep and stuff.
And with the comments addressed, we can officially begin this chapter. Like before, I hope you all enjoy the chapter. And just a head up there is a bit of a time skip later in the chapter.
I do not own any of RWBY or their content. They all belong to their respective owners. Nor do I own any content belonging to Kuro Technology and their series Punishing Gray Raven.
After what was half an hour after leaving the recently reactivated generator. The three androids soon arrived at Lucia's main hub. Like before, the door was damaged with clear signs of someone forcing it open. Yet there was a lack of the stench of blood in the air. Nor blood stains that should be there based on Lucia's footage.
"Shouldn't there be bodies here?" Penny was the first to speak as all three androids walked into Lucia's main hub.
"It must be those drones we saw earlier. They must have cleared the bodies and blood." Luna was next to voice her theory. Lucia then walked off as she then took off Benizakra in its sheath from her belt before placing it into a containment field that housed it.
"Yes. That is likely the case. I wonder where they took it?" Lucia hummed as she turned her head around. Her eyes could be seen glancing everywhere, with no doubt that she was trying to find the entrance to the hidden room.
"So… where is the room?" Penny asked as both she and Luna regrouped at Lucia after observing the entire hub in detail.
Lucia then points at the corner of the hub that was blocked by machinery hardware. Lucia then walked towards it and began to feel around it before she found a button that was incredibly well hidden. Pressing the button resulted in part of the room shifting around before the wall opens to reveal a dark corridor that leads to somewhere.
"What do you think we would find in there?" Penny asked as Lucia just shrug.
"Unknown. The room does not appear on my map schematics. We will be charting unknown territory." This understandably earned a look from Luna.
"If that is the case, wouldn't it be wise to have your blade with you?" Luna asks as Lucia just walked into the corridor.
"Yes." Lucia paused as she turned her head towards her siblings. "But I trust both of you to do what needs to be done if there are any threats." Lucia then continued her way as both Penny and Luna glanced at each other before following Lucia. Of course, Luna had her guard up while Penny seemed unsure as to where it leads to. But chose to keep her mouth shut for now.
As the three walked down the corridor with the only light source which came from their eyes, the corridor was unusually long as it took minutes to walk and soon arrived at another door had had a palm scanner on it. Glancing at both Penny and Luna who nodded back at her, Lucia lifted her right hand before placing it on the scanner.
Seconds passed as a familiar automatic voice could be heard as Luna brought her rifle up just in case. "Welcome, Lucia." It says out as Penny had two of her swords out as the door opened. And what they all saw confused them greatly.
Inside the hidden room was a room that had a bed, a table with a chair, an entire bookshelf full of all sorts of books and a piano. All three androids could only walk into what could be described as a bedroom that was unaffected by the passage of time. Which was strange indeed since everything else they had seen so far had been affected by time.
"Its… just a bedroom?" Penny observed as Luna looked disappointed as to the whole thing. Yet Lucia could be seen walking around the room slowly, her fingers brushing over everything as if she knows them and her eyes seemed dazed as to the whole thing. This was quickly picked up by both Penny and Luna who could only wonder why she was doing it.
"Lucia, is there something wrong?" Luna asked as that alone kicked Lucia out of her dazed state.
"I… I know this place…" she mumbled as she walked over to the bookshelf and took out a book that had the title, 'Anatomy of the Body' Lucia stared at it when she suddenly stumbled slightly to her left and clutched her head while her eyes were closed shut tightly. Lucia also dropped the book she was holding it lands on the floor with a thud.
"Lucia! Are you alright?" Penny asked out as she ran over to her older sister's side when she suddenly raised her hand to stop her.
"I'm fine Penny," Lucia said as she recomposed herself. "It appears that returning to this place has restored some of my wiped memories." Lucia explains as she picked up the book she dropped as she faced Penny. Luna could also be seen walking up as she asks.
"Lucia, what is this place?"
"My own room in which I stay in when they are not conducting testing on me or maintenance. Father would always be here with me throughout my time. He taught me many things in this place." A small nostalgic smile emerged on Lucia's face as she places the book back.
"But there is another thing I need to tell you." Lucia's face turned serious. "We will be heading to another part of the facility that I believe would be of interest to both of you and your creators. Normally we would have to walk there which would take at least 2 hours to reach. But there is a faster way to get there." Lucia says as Penny asked her sister while hopping on the spot with enthusiasm.
"Oh oh! What is it you want to show us?" But all she got was Lucia pulling the bookcase to the side and then pushing the wall, part of it then flipped around to reveal a console on the other end of the wall. Lucia then approaches it and entered a code before the sound of machinery could be heard.
Seconds later, part of the ceiling moved to the side for a tube to be seen extending down as Lucia explained. "We can ride the pneumatic tube that will take us to our destination the fastest. And do trust me on this, it has been tested and is safe for us to use. Do keep your hands close to your chest when riding the tube. Wouldn't want any of you to lose limbs while inside it." Lucia explains.
"Isn't this like the pneumatic tubes that Atlas has to carry Dust into it?" Penny asks as Lucia nodded her head.
"Yes. It must be developed first somewhere. Now follow me." Lucia gestured her hand towards herself before she walked underneath the pneumatic tube and jumped. The tube then activates and sucked Lucia into it as both Penny and Luna looked at each other before Luna shrugged as Penny smiled at her.
"Don't worry Luna! I am sure this would take us to whatever Lucia wishes to show us!" Penny said as she too jumped towards the pneumatic tube and got herself sucked up by it. Luna could only just stare before rolling her eyes while letting out a sigh as she then followed the both of them.
As all two of them rode the pneumatic tube to whatever destination Lucia planned to show them with both Penny and Luna catching up to her. Luna called her out as they could see the interior parts of the facility and the place is massive!
"Lucia! Where is our current destination?"
"We are heading for the main R&D of the facility! All the other R&D laboratories above serve as decoys for the main work beneath here! ETA 1 minute!" Lucia says back as they went past even more structures. Strangely enough, it looks like they are heading deeper underground which Luna noticed and quickly send a message to Ironwood as to what's going on.
They soon arrived at another part of the facility which was an R&D section based on all the manufacturing machines in the area. All three of them stepped out of the tube Penny had an ecstatic look on her face.
"The view on the way here was spectacular and so much fun! Can we do it again?" Penny asks as Lucia could be seen adjusting her unkempt hair as well as her clothes. The same could be said for Luna who looked annoyed as she combed her ponytails with her hands before adjusting her uniform.
"Perhaps later. The pneumatic tubes are the only way to get to this part of the facility with relative ease. Any other way would take longer and we can leave through it once this area is fully explored." Lucia explained as little drones could be seen flying around with a couple of them seemingly scanning all three of them, followed by it flying off somewhere.
"What are the directives of these drones? They do not match any models recognised by Atlas." Luna asked as Lucia paid those drones no mind.
"They are harmless. Their main directive is to handle the logistics of this place. Additionally, they are easy to manufacture at low cost." Lucia explained as she walked forward while both Penny and Luna followed her.
"You know of this place Alpha?" Penny asked as she look around as numerous drones could be seen flying all over the place.
"Yes. It was this area in which my frame was first manufactured. I've spent over 87.436% of my existence within this part of the facility, this is where they tested my capabilities and combat prowess here every day." Lucia explained to Penny. Though, Lucia would never say to her face that her memories of this part of the facility had been unlocked thanks to its criteria being met. Which was back in her room.
All of them left the room in which the pneumatic tubes took them, they came across an interesting sight of what Penny and Luna could guess is a printer. It could be seen printing out the drones that all three of them had seen earlier on at ridiculous speeds via lasers.
"What is this Lucia?" Penny points her finger at the assembler with curiosity in her tone.
"This is one of father's greatest creations." Lucia stared at the machine as she explained. "A laser-powered nano-assembler. It can be used to manufacture anything and everything. But I still wonder how he made it. The technological requirements outpace anything Atlas could design and make."
"Perhaps he had help." Luna suggests as Penny threw her hat into the discussion.
"Or perhaps he has a technology-based semblance that allows him to create it!"
"Either one is a possible explanation as to how he made it. Do note that everything my father owns will go under Pietro Polendina and Arthur Watts except for a few I am sure are here." Lucia paused for a second. "Luna."
Tilting her head slightly to the right, Luna acknowledged. "Yes, Lucia?"
"Back in Atlas, I've come across some information that Dr Watts was trying to replicate the self-sufficient nanomachines in my system correct?" Lucia asked as Luna just nodded.
"That is correct. Father has been trying to replicate your father's work for years. To no avail." Luna concluded then raised an eyebrow. "Why do you ask?"
That got Lucia to give a small smile as she signalled Penny and Luna to follow her. They soon arrive at another section of the room itself and it has several greyish vials that were tightly secured with glass and an unusual lock that has a handle.
As both Penny and Luna's gaze landed on the grey vials, Penny could be heard gasping in surprise when she ran a scan as to what are those substances inside the vials. "Is that what I think those are?" Penny could be heard asking.
"Yes. Those are the very same nanomachines that are in my system. And scans indicate that they are still in perfect condition after 25 years." Lucia says as she approached the lock before grabbing it with her hand. Lucia then twisted the lock before pushing her hand into the lock itself, it then slammed shut on Lucia's hand much to her sister's shock.
Lucia's POV
I must admit. I didn't expect that to happen when I twisted that lock before pushing it. Then again, I have its instruction as to how to unlock it directly in my system. And I could feel several plugs attaching themselves to my arm which was still in the lock. That was quickly followed by a Hud then appeared in front of my eyes.
[Connecting with security lock. Passcode received.]
[Disabling security lock.]
[Please stand by…]
"Lucia, is your hand ok?" I heard Penny call out to me with worry as Luna just walked forward and stared at the vials that contain Father's nanomachines.
"I'm fine Penny. Yet, I am accessing the security lock and disabling it with my hand." I explained as clickings could be heard coming from the locks.
[shutting down security locks…]
…
[Security locks disabled.]
One final click could be heard as a hiss emerged from the locks before the glass panel rose. That also allowed me to remove my hand from the lock as it releases my hand from it. Pulling my hand out of the lock, I then reached over and took one of the vials full of nanomachines and passed it to Luna.
"Here. Take this Luna." I said as Luna stared at the vial in my hand for a second or two, she then reached with her hand out and took it from me and kept it in her pocket. I then explained to her.
"Take it to Watts and give it to him. I'm sure he would appreciate having access to father's tech to enhance you further."
"Understood." That was all Luna said as she gave me a small smile. Aww, she looks so cute and I just want to give her a head pat! No Lucia! You're getting distracted! There is more to look at first. Then you can pat her head later. Probably. Maybe.
Nodding at Luna, I turned around and switch my optics to an X-ray filter. And I could see through the walls and all the internal wiring inside it. But what I saw not too far away looked like an underground hangar and something big was there. Looks like an aircraft, how did that get down here? And to my left in another room, it looks like several bodies in some sort of pod. The bodies are not biological though. They appear to be mechanical in origin. Did father create even more bodies for me?
Disabling the X-ray filter from my eyes, I turned my head back at Penny and Luna before signalling them to follow me. We are going to see the bodies first as they had my curiosity. We can look at the hangars later. Both Luna and Penny followed me closely behind as I detected a transmission between the both. Whatever they were talking about, I cannot access it without alerting them both since it's encrypted. Nevertheless, I let them have their talking as we walked on.
When we arrived at our destination 5.4 minutes later, the room itself looked incredibly bland with all painted white. But what interest me the most was the mass of machinery hardware in the middle of the room connected to five pods in a star formation. As I approached one of the pods, I bushed my hand on the dusty glass to reveal a metallic exoskeleton frame lacking any sort of artificial skin inside every pod. It looked quite spooky.
Is that how I look on the inside? I look horrifying if that's the case.
Brushing that thought off my head. My systems received what could be an entire data file related to these exoskeleton frames and I began to read through it in seconds. And after reading through the entire file, what I came across about it was both fascinating and horrifying.
They were built by my father and several others in secret as emergency frames should my current frame be severely damaged or destroyed, their secondary function allows the exoskeleton frame to house a human's consciousness and aura. Cybernetically augmenting them to the levels of a machine while leaving their original bodies devoid of life and mind. Turning them into a vegetable in the meantime.
Did father decide to take that experimental tech even further than canon? Transferring both mind and soul into a mechanical body? This is sick. And if the wrong people like Salem get their hands on this tech, things will go bad fast. This tech must remain a secret. There may be a time in which this kind of thing may be needed but I hope not anytime soon.
At this point, people who undergo the transfer could be more readily called androids with human memories than actual humans with prosthetic augmentations. If I could express my disgust at what I have read through, I've chosen not to do it. Though it shines an even darker image of what my father had done right here. I hope no one was used to test these 'constructs' as they are called.
Interestingly enough, these bodies are built more recently compared to my current body and are more updated. Scans indicate that they were made after my body was first created for what purpose, I do not know. These construct bodies seem to allow for an almost accurate imitation of the human body. With it, they can consume food just like any normal human could.
I wonder why my father made these frames for. For team RWBY? Why does this place have this kind of tech that violates ethics and morality?
"Lucia?" I heard Penny calling me as she rests her hand on my shoulder. It appears that I've been staring at the pod for a while now and she's concerned about whether I am alright.
Snapping out of my head, I retract my hand away from the pod and turned to face Penny who then asked.
"Do you know what are these exoskeletons for Lucia? My scanners say that these bodies are much more advanced compared to mine or Luna's."
"These exoskeleton frames are more accurately called constructs. According to father." I said as Luna gave an eye raise. "They serve as backup bodies for me, should my current frame be severely damaged or destroyed. My aura and consciousness will be transmitted into one of these spare bodies. They also seem to allow for almost accurate imitation of the human body."
"What do you mean Lucia?" Luna spoke up as she turned her optics on the pods before turning them back at me.
"If any of us were to have a construct's body, our system effectiveness would increase and we will be able to consume food like any other Human or Faunus." I explained as Penny was in awe of what she heard. But it was Luna that caught me off guard for a second. Her eyes seemed to light up for a second before she returned to her default expression.
How strange. Why would she have that kind of reaction? For Penny, I can understand why she does it but Luna? Luna's more composed compared to Penny yet it does not explain her sudden excitement at the prospect of consuming food. Hm…
"Is there anything else you know about these construct bodies?" Penny then asked as I hesitated for a second.
"These exoskeleton frames can if needed to be, house a Human or Faunus consciousness and aura. Turning them into androids with human memories and souls while their organic bodies will be in a prolonged state of unconsciousness. Until their aura is returned to their body." Penny looked unnerved at the whole thing while Luna looked disgusted at the whole thing as I nodded.
"The general needs to know about this." Luna muttered as I agreed with her.
"Yes. If this technology falls into the wrong hands, things will likely get from bad to worse."
"But why did Dr Kurt decide to make use of such technology? I know that father spliced off part of his Aura to give me life. But even he views this kind of tech as ethically immoral." Penny asks as I could only shake my head and shrug.
"I do not have a conclusive answer, Penny. Perhaps we will never know why my father pushed this kind of ethically immoral tech further. All we can do is to ensure that it does not fall into the wrong hands." I admitted as Penny seemed happy at what I said.
"We still have one more place to investigate. There is an underground hangar not too far from here. We should head there." I began to walk off only to pause for a second. "And Luna, do inform the general in your report about what we have found so far. He should know about what my father has been up to. As much as it pains me." I gritted my teeth as I felt a pang in my chest. Which was strange since I don't have a heart in the literal sense of the words.
It does hurt me to say it but. Was it really necessary to delve into that kind of technology? Logically, it is the right choice to inform them as to what father has been up to.
And so, we soon moved on to the hangar that so happens to be underground and what we encountered made me wonder how far did father go for me to achieve my objectives in defeating Salem. In the middle of the hangar itself was a grey/black jet that was much larger and longer than Bullhead.
Its wings were not like a normal jet's as it faced upwards with several thrusters on each wing. It was also clearly more armoured and from what I can gather from first glance, the ability to carry cargo. As we continued walking, Penny could be heard gasping at the sight of the jet plane as Luna just remained as quiet as always. I also took the time to scan the plane and got some interesting titbits from it.
[Scanning unknown vehicle.]
[Scan complete.]
[Vehicle name, Condor Mk. I/ Griffin.]
[Features. Switchable modes between jet and hover mode. Equipped with auto-turrets on the wings and under the cockpit for aerial engagement. Has Internal capacity to hold numerous passengers or cargo.]
"Griffin huh? Interesting name for an aerial vehicle." I muttered as I could feel both Penny and Luna turning their heads towards me as I rest a hand on it.
"That I would say so myself." All of us immediately turned around to face the intruder only to see that it was Dr Watts and Pietro who had arrived, alongside Winter and the ace-ops. Ah, Luna must have informed Ironwood who in turn, informed them that we're here. As soon as we saw all of them, Luna, Penny, and I immediately drop our guard and gave a salute to all of them.
"Father! I see that you've arrived here!" Penny called out to Pietro who just let out a chuckle.
"Yes I have darling. With the facility secured, we decided to come over here with Ironwood's permission as long as we have an escort." Pietro smiled as he explained while Luna walked towards her creator with the vial in hand.
"Dr Watts. Lucia has a gift for you." Luna speaks out as Watts raised a curious eyebrow at me before looking back at his creation.
"Oh? And what gift does Lucia wishes to give me?"
"A sample of Dr Kurt's nanomachines. She wishes for you to have this." Luna explained as she held up the vial that contains the nanomachines inside it. Watt's eyes widen in shock as he then slowly took the vial from Luna and after having a quick observation of it, kept it inside his coat.
Even Pietro, Winter and the Ace-ops looked curious as to the sample.
"You have my thanks, Lucia. Perhaps… you have changed. But you must do more than that if you want to convince the rest of Altas and the world." Watts thanked me as he looked brighter than before. No doubt as soon as we get back to Atlas, he would want to work on the sample as soon as possible. I only gave a nod in response as I turned around and continue staring at the jet before us.
"Are you all aware of my father's secret works?" I asked softly as there was silence for a time before Pietro broke the silence.
"Parts of it," Pietro admits as he rubbed his chin. "He informed the both of us as to his works. But I never expect him to go this far."
"General Ironwood had to inform us as to some of Dr Kurt's projects that even we don't even know existed till just now. It's part of the reason that both Pietro and I are here." Watts added in.
"I see…" I hummed as I slowly walked over to the jet's tail before it seemed to recognise me as its owner when suddenly, a ramp appeared out and came down in front of me. Penny appears to be in a state of wonderstruck when it hits her and everybody else that I have my very own aircraft to myself. Even I was amazed at how far my father was willing to prepare me for the coming battle.
I mean, extra bodies as well as a personal Jet? What's next? A motorcycle? If there is one, I hope it is better enough to make Yang jealous over it. But in hindsight, I should have kept my mouth shut for as soon as we walk into Griffin, inside of it were enough seats to house at least several Huntsman and Huntresses or several cargoes inside. And on the side of it was a black/red motorbike that had parts of it glowing neon red and it was locked in. Was it excessive? Perhaps but seeing that bike again ended up causing what had happened earlier in my room to happen again.
[Memories restored.]
That's what my Hud reads when it replayed what looks to be me researching motorbikes before requesting my father to make one. The memory video then changes to show me using the same laser-powered nano-assembler to produce the parts required for my motorbike. Then it moved on to show me assembling it with the assistance of other engineers.
"Lucia! Are you alright?" I heard someone calling me, only to quickly realise that I was kneeling before my bike. Turning my head, I could see everyone giving me a look of concern.
How did?! Did it just happen again? Never mind that. I'm getting distracted.
"I'm… fine," I mumbled as I stood back on my feet. Before turning my head to face everyone. "More of my memories were restored. Just like earlier."
"And what are those memories to be exact?" Watts curiously asked as I stared at my bike again.
"I… was researching about motorbikes. Before concluding that I wished to have my own. Then we used the Nano-assembler to produce the parts, before assembling them with other engineers." I said as my hand brushed on the seat.
"I see. The Nano-assembler... I remember it now. I thought it was once lost. And, one of the techs Ironwood wishes to have when he asked me all those years ago." Pietro hummed.
"Once of Dr Kurt's greatest technology that will revolutionise the world if it gets out." Watts added in as Winter and the Ace ops could be seen glazing around the interior of the ship.
"Don't know about you but I think that the General should know that Dr Kurt made an entire craft for you. And, your motorbike." I heard Clover asking as he got noises of agreement from his team.
"Way to make us all jealous Alpha. Getting all the fancy toys." I heard Marrow jokingly points out to me as I just had the urge to act all smug at him. After all, who gets a jet fighter as a gift?
…
Oh wait.
"Heh. I'm sure if things get better, the General will give all of you better gear eventually." I shrugged my shoulders. "With the facility under Alta's control and its tech secured, all objectives are completed. We should head back to Atlas to report."
I say as Luna interrupted me. "Lucia, what about your sword?" She asked as I could only facepalm internally. Right. I left Benizakra upstairs. Oh well, not like I need it at all right now.
"It is not important. I can always come back here to collect it." I said as I felt myself connecting with the ship itself as my eyes flicker again. Seconds passed before multiple seats rose from the floor.
"Allow me to take all of you back to Atlas upon this craft. And be assured that no harm will come upon you during this journey. I will be in the cockpit to pilot it." I turned and walked off as everyone watched before hesitantly getting onto their seats and strapping themselves in.
"Should we follow her?" Penny asks as she glanced at me and back to her father
"Go ahead darling. I should be fine here. Though... should we get the chance, I wish to study this craft in closer detail when I get the chance." Pietro gave the go to his daughter.
"Luna, accompany Penny to see where Lucia is heading." Watts gave an order as Luna nodded.
"Understood." Luna nodded as she and Penny followed me into what I guess is a cockpit that had only one seat. Without looking at them, two chairs appeared from the ground and formed in front of everyone's eyes.
"I've taken the opportunity to allow both of you to have the front-row seat with me. Do you accept?" I offered a comforting smile at them both as Penny looked utterly ecstatic at the chance. As for Luna, I can't fully understand her thoughts. But I think she's excited at the prospect but doesn't show it openly.
Now if only I could get inside of her head, and why does she remind me a hell lot of Sarah when she acts all cold and aloof?
"I loved the chance to experience sitting with you! I accept your offer big sister Lucia!" Penny cheerfully rests one hand on her hips while the other was extended out and gave a thumbs up. As for Luna, she just nods her head.
Taking her nod as she accepts the offer, we all sat down on the chair as we strap ourselves in. Turning to Luna who was on my right, I ask for her assistance. "Luna, can you alert the General that we're heading back to Atlas in an unregistered aircraft? It would be wise to inform him of it. Tell him that Specialist Schnee, the Ace Ops, Dr Watts and Dr Pietro are inside the craft."
"Understood." That was all Luna said as I began pressing and accessing the instrument panel. Soon, I felt something connecting to the back of my neck as a helmet with numerous wires and cables could be seen descending from the cockpit's ceiling. Knowing what to do, my hands reached for it and grabbed it before placing it on my head.
I felt something connecting to the mechanical parts of my head as something else appeared on the visor in front of my eyes.
[Connection established with Condor Mk. I.]
[Destination. Atlas. Confirm?]
[Confirm.]
Seeing this, the whole hangar platform we were on began to rise as I spoke into the mic that was inside the helmet to everyone inside my jet. "This is Lucia Alpha speaking. We are about to leave and head for Atlas. Do ensure that you are always strapped in during the journey. We will arrive back in Atlas, ETA 15 minutes."
As soon as I gave my announcement, the whole underground facility began to rumble as I, Penny and Luna looked up to see the ceiling that looked like a gate slowly opened to show the endless winter.
"15 minutes to reach Atlas from here? Just how fast does this aerial vehicle go?" Luna asked as I answered her.
"Around Mach 2 at full speeds. Anymore would risk hull destruction of Condor Mk.1." I say while reading it through my visor.
"Maximum speeds up to Mach 2? That is outstanding!" I heard Penny praising as the platform stopped moving. Knowing that I have no idea how to fly, I enabled the autopiloting system and let it take over.
[Autopilot enabled.]
Both Penny and Luna watch as my hand got to work and began pressing buttons with the other hand on the joystick near my knees. Condor began to roar with life as its thrusters activate and pushed the aircraft into the air. Once it reached a certain height, its wings slow began to adjust and face forward. Propelling us all to Atlas.
What a day it must be for everyone here…
Ironwood read through the reports that came in from Luna to him. Mostly involving what she, Penny and Lucia had come across. A Nano-assembler that can make anything and everything. How the hell did Dr Kurt have this under the radar the whole time? If Atlas gets its hands on it, it could save on manufacturing costs and it alone would change Remnant with the technology to print anything.
The more Ironwood read the reports, the more confused and intrigued he got. While he understands the nanomachines inside Alpha were deep in the facility, it does not explain what Luna had discovered that even had Alpha expressed her disgust with it. It appears that Dr Kurt went further with the Aura capturing technology Atlas discovered many years ago but never revealed it to the public. Now he made robotic exoskeletons he called constructs to house a person's soul and consciousness inside it.
The idea of it made Ironwood feel dirty with himself reading this. Turning what could be normal people into android bodies? Why would Dr Kurt come up with it? What were his thoughts when he created it? Why? Why did he do it? Ironwood could only ask himself as he read through the reports. He could see the positives of it and how it could help against the Grimm threat but, the whole thing is ethically wrong. Was Dr Kurt planning for a possibility of war behind everyone's back?
Interestingly enough, the frames themselves allow the user to consume food as fuel for the body and give them a sense of taste. This was strange since the exoskeletons' purpose is to house a person's aura and mind. Luna suggests a theory as to why that feature exists and that is to maintain mental stability for the user.
But more data is required to see if her theory is correct.
Though… they could give Fria, the current Winter Maiden under his care a chance to live on much longer than she could and allow her to retain her sense of duty and dedication to her role as the Winter Maiden. Though like before, this is wrong on so many levels unless she willingly takes upon the opportunity. Ironwood could only shake his head as he continues reading the report.
Then there is the case of Dr Kurt providing Alpha with a personal jet which boggles his mind and makes him question his decision to do that. Then again, he could use both Alpha and Luna similar to the Ace-Ops if she continues to remain loyal. Or use them to assist in his and Ozpin's efforts to protect Remnant from Salem with how strong both of them are already.
Honestly, the past few hours had been hectic with the reclamation of the facility and the discovery of Dr Kurt's hidden projects. A beep could be heard from the holographic console on the table as Ironwood pressed it. Seconds later, Luna could be heard on the line.
"General. We have arrived back at Atlas and will proceed to your office for mission debriefing. ETA 10 minutes." Ironwood could only nod in response.
"Understood Luna. See you all soon." Ironwood turned his attention away from his console as he wondered to himself. Should he call his friend Ozpin and have his opinion on it? After all, his guidance would be nice to have in a time such as this. And with that in mind, he decided to call his friend, unaware that Alpha was tapped in and listening.
Somewhere else, a middle-aged man with slightly messy hair wearing a black shirt with a white overcoat could be seen working on a console that had a screen above it. As voices could be heard emitting from it. More accurately, it was Ironwood giving his debriefing on their recent mission. Letting out a frustrated hiss, the man slammed on the console for the White Fang he tipped off had failed their objective.
He wanted them to take those techs and bring them back to him. And now Atlas had reclaimed it and not him!
"Damn those fools! Ugh. Never let a bunch of civilians do a professional's job." He slowly rubbed the tip of his nose with frustration oozing from his mouth. No matter, he can still work it out despite the setbacks. After all, he played a major part in that damn machine's creation. That was their mistake. No. HIS mistake. And damn Atlas for running away from that thing! For leaving their sacrifices to waste. All of them poured their heart and soul into creating that thing. And did Altas do anything when it ran out of control?
They tried to stop it, but they gave up too soon! And for those who lost their family and friends during that slaughter? Were they even compensated for their losses?
No. Nothing was done for them. They were cast aside for their failure of the project when it went on a killing spree. And many deaths were unavenged. Where Atlas cowered and say that they 'learned' from their mistakes, he will avenge the dead. Avenge the souls lost and once and for all, destroy that abominable machine and bring justice to the friends he lost.
But thanks to those foolish terrorists who died, a new plan needed to be created if he is to avenge those who died, thankfully not all was lost. For he had recently come across a scientist who called himself Merlot, who is willing to help him. Though it's more of a teeth-clenching partnership than anything as that man is utterly insane.
Experimenting on Grimm and believing that they can be controlled? Saying that the Grimm are individually flawed and damaged, but are beautiful and full of potential? That is preposterous and utterly insane! But he has the resources from his 'assets' whatever they are.
While Merlot has the funds, he has technological and engineering expertise. Both scientists agreed to work with each other while also agreeing to not step on the other's toes. Most of the time at least.
"Ah, I see that your plans to use those animals to get what you want have failed. Dr Racher." A smug arrogant tone could be heard behind him. Turning his head, he muttered with annoyance.
"Dr Merlot. What the hell are you doing over here? Don't you have your sick studies to work on?" Racher shot back.
"Ah nothing much. Just curious as to how much your plans are failing." Merlot lets out a smug huff only to hear a click and have an arm cannon point-blank to his face by Dr Racher's prosthetic arm.
"Watch your tongue around me Merlot." Dr Racher hissed. "Or do I have to remind you of your constant failures if it wasn't for my expertise? Without me, you wouldn't be able to get your 'research' off the ground. And last I checked, you have been working for it for years it?" Racher gave a smug back at him.
That alone got a frown from Merlot as Racher continued. "And my work alone made your machines better than before. And with Dr Kurt's designs with me? We will claim our rightful place at the top of the food chain. No longer will we quiver in fear from the darkness. I will ensure that we will make the darkness fear us." Racher declared as he got a stare from Merlot before he started laughing.
"You? Lecturing me as to how your mentor's machines will save Remnant? Wasn't your so-called creation's fault that everyone died that day? At least I ensure that my work won't kill me in the process! Yours immediately went out of control and killed everyone, didn't it?" Merlot shot back as Racher growled as he brought down his hand cannon which turned back into his hand and turned away.
"Do me a favour. Refrain from speaking of what happened that day, Merlot. I have full intentions to rectify my failure. Or do I have to throw you out of the laboratory to be devoured by the sea?"
That got a scoff from Merlot. "I doubt you have the will to do that. You need me as much as I need you. But after spending much time with you, you have given me an idea that I will need your help with."
That got a Dr Racher to turn and give Merlot a curious look. "Do tell, Merlot." Merlot began to chuckle with a slightly crazed grin on his face.
"The combination of machine and Grimm. The perfect creation to destroy your failures and a way for me to test them even further. How about that?" That got Racher to rub his chin with a frown for a while.
"Very well then. I will work with you. For now." Racher glanced to the side as Merlot chuckled with glee.
"Excellent! With it, we will break the limits of both Grimm and machine and go where no one had thought of! With it, all our dreams will be achieved!" Merlot coughed into his hand as he calmed himself down. "But first, we should prepare our experiment together, shall we? Partner?" He grinned as Racher slowly nods at him.
Satisfied with the outcome, Merlot began to walk away while chuckling to himself at the wonderful ideas brewing in his head. And once he was no longer in hearing distance, Dr Racher mumbled angrily.
"Crazy fucker… If this insane plan of yours goes AWOL, I'm killing you myself. That's a promise."
Dr Rancher glanced back at the console with a grin on his face. "Thankfully you will not have control over them when we do make it. And Alpha." Dr Racher gritted his teeth at the sight of that machine on-screen saluting alongside Watts and Pietro's creations at Ironwood.
"If this project proves to be successful in the coming months, I'm coming for you."
Lucia's POV
Weeks had passed since the day I completed my first mission with Penny and Luna and things went by fast. Firstly, Penny, Luna and I have officially agreed to recognise each other as sisters with me being the oldest followed by Luna and then finally Penny. It was an understatement that Penny was ecstatic at the idea of having two sisters, while Luna just seemed glad to have someone else to talk to.
Secondly, with the facility back under Atla's control, much of father's tech ended up in Ironwood's hand and he had begun making plans to replicate more of those nano-assemblers back in the facility. Though he kept it classified from the rest of the world which was understandable. Wouldn't want that kind of tech to fall into the wrong hands.
Especially Salem…
It was also during that time that Penny was assigned by the general to partner up with Ciel and her team. Though from what I heard so far, we have a month before Penny leaves with them to attend the Vytal festival. But during the time we still had with her, both Luna and I took the time to teach her better judgement before she leaves. I think she is just glad that both Luna and I worry about her.
Then we have me asking for Ironwood's permission for something, and with a compromise with him in which they will keep a close watch on me. For what exactly? An idea for me to undertake the procedure to install myself into the construct frames we found in the facility weeks back.
As to why? Data indicates that installing myself into a new body would improve my already experimental body with an increase of 41.532% efficiency boost. That power boost will allow me to deal with threats better. This also made some sense as my systems have the highest compatibility rate out of the three of us. This makes me the most viable candidate to go through this process without suffering any potential side effects from the transfer.
That and both Pietro and Watts were extremely reluctant to touch the experimental frame without testing first.
And that's where I come in.
Not that I blamed them or anything, I'm a willing test subject for the new construct body and they get to see if there are any side effects after the body transfer. Penny was somewhat dissatisfied that she was not getting an upgraded body but it was Luna that surprised me the most.
She looked and even expressed her disappointment openly. Which was new. Even for Watts. She must want the opportunity to taste food if she were to voice it out. With that out of the way, we move on to the operation. Though the process was… something alright. I will have to be in sleep mode as the process requires me to be disassembled into pieces before retrofitting the parts onto my new frame. This includes my aura and consciousness having to be taken away and into my new construct body.
All the experimental features that were in my original body would be taken out of me and reattached to my new body. Even my artificial blood would be drained out from my system and pumped into the new construct body.
Yea… Just the thought and reading through the steps of transfer in my head send shivers down what I think would be my spine. Not a great feeling but we still went on with the process which took an entire day.
And once I reawaken after the operation, I see myself in a pod as the sound of machinery could be heard via my enhanced auditory sensors. There was a loud hiss seconds later as the pod slowly adjusted itself to face forward as the cover came off. All sorts of scientists could be seen with scroll pads in their hands as they watched me closely as my Hud began to run system checks.
[Re-establishing primary CPU algorithm.]
[Primary CPU algorithm operational. All systems online.]
[Diagnostics complete.]
[System synchronization with new body complete.]
Glancing downwards at my own body, I was reminded of how I had to strip before I could be disassembled. This results in a humous and awkward sight of an android made for war refusing and throwing a hissy fit over the idea of stripping and exposing her body before relenting. Doesn't help at all that I have to do it in front of everyone. Including Penny and Luna.
Oh boy, I can't wait for the local gossip about a killer android who's afraid to go naked.
"Lucia, can you hear me?" Pietro, who was in front of most people, called out to me as I raised both my hands out before clenching them into fists. They were still exactly how I remembered them. The left arm is painted black and the right is painted red.
"I can hear you, Dr Pietro," I say as my eyes land on him and my arms went down. "System synchronization is successful. Overall combat efficiency has increased dramatically." I say as my arms moved instinctively to cover my breast and nether regions. All while glowing red on the face from embarrassment as chuckles could be heard in the room itself.
"Of course, Lucia." Pietro just offer me a smile as a scientist, who was still chuckling gave me a white long-sleeve shirt to cover myself in. It's not much but it'll do.
"I must say, these upgrades are quite fascinating, but I believe that field testing is the better option for you if we were to get a better graph on its potential." Pietro says as he read the overall details on his tablet as I slowly got off my pod. Strangely enough, I'm naturally breathing as a normal person should.
Turns out these construct bodies were not kidding about imitating the human body and doing a quick scan of my body reveals that I have an artificial voice box in my throat, though I still possess speakers inside me as well.
"Where are my clothes?" I asked as Watts took a step forward.
"They should be in your room Lucia. And you're free to leave the facility to do your… life field testing." Watts muttered as I gave a nod before walking through the crowd with wires still attached to me. Though they came off my back naturally with a hiss. But before I could do anything else, I heard the commotion of confusion from behind, only to notice that something else is attached to me.
And by my command, it revealed itself to be some sort of articulating arm attached just where I believe my tailbone should be if I was human. Strange… That wasn't there to start with. And from the looks of it, I can use it to hold my sheath for Benizakura. That should allow me to utilise my magnetic belt for other purposes. I can work with that, though it will take a while to get used to this additional feeling just above my butt.
I then received a call from Ironwood himself as a hologram projector emerged from the middle of my chest and displayed Ironwood himself looking directly at me.
I did not know I had a hologram projector installed on me the whole time.
Now you're probably wondering how Ironwood did that, well… the compromise I made with him weeks back also includes permission to access my systems and the knowledge of the exact position and condition I'm in at any time. Though my memory banks were off limit from access as what was agreed upon.
"This is Ironwood here." Ironwood spoke as everyone in the room paid attention to Ironwood and with haste, I wore my white long-sleeve shirt to cover my nude body as I spoke.
"Alpha reporting. Conversion into experimental construct body is successful and I planned to perform life field testing on Grimm to fully understand its capabilities." I replied as adjusted my shirt to cover my curves. Ironwood was non-plussed at my lack of clothing as he continued.
"I see. Once you get yourself some clothing, report to my office immediately. I have a new assignment to give to you." He says as I gave a salute.
"Understood general. I will arrive at your office. ETA 30 minutes." That got a nod from Ironwood as the hologram projector deactivates and went back into my chest. I had plans to finally taste some food again after putting on my outfit but I guess that would have to wait.
What a bummer.
Turning around, I gave a small bow to everyone with an apology. "It appears that I cannot delay any more time. I will be on my way, everyone." And with that, I sped off to grab what I need before meeting up with Ironwood. Speaking of the general, he is starting to trust me slowly. So does everyone else in Atlas. It is slow, but at least some progress was made.
I soon arrived at Ironwood's office alone as he requested and it made me curious as to what he wished for me to do. Though he had been talking with Ozpin for a while now without realising that I was listening in. Or perhaps he did but chose to ignore the chances of me tapping in. And I had not been idling around for the past few weeks.
During that time, I had been sharpening my skills with Benizakura whenever I get the chance and took some time to improve upon its designs. The handle and hilt now have a more mechanical look as the blade itself are attached directly to the guard of the sword itself. As for the blade, I managed to improve upon its strength and it came with an unintended but interesting effect.
Whenever I now swing Benizakura around, the colour of the blade becomes more and more bright every time. It's not overheating or anything. It is just… doing its own thing. What was I talking about again?
Oh right. I walking into Ironwood's office alone.
As I did, Ironwood was staring at his console as he turned his head back to me while I saluted at him. "Lucia reporting."
Ironwood lets out a grunt "Hmm. I see you have arrived" Ironwood spoke as I watched him get off his chair before asking him.
"General. What is this assignment you require me to accomplish?" I brought down my hand as the articulating arm shifts Benizakura to the side. Ironwood though just nodded and explained.
"Straight to the point. Very well then." I spotted a small tug on his lips as he continued. "Recently, a friend of mine requested my assistance on a matter. He reported that something strange is happening in the ruins of Mountain Glenn and it requires investigation." Ironwood explained.
"Mount Glenn huh? What's going on over there?" I raised my right eye with curiosity as Ironwood continued.
"Right now, he's busy with the preparations for the Vytal festival coming soon and I have my preparations to make as headmaster of Atlas academy. That is where you come in." Ironwood says as he walked toward me. "I want you to go to Mount Glenn and investigate what's going on down there, you have proven to be independent and reliable during your time in Atlas. Therefore, I am entrusting you with this matter, Lucia." Ironwood paused for a second.
"Normally I would have Luna come with you but she is unavailable right now. Dr Watts needs her attention as of right now as he came up with an inspiration while you were upgrading. As a result of that, you will be running solo on this multi-day mission. Do you have any questions?"
I was silent for a moment. Ok so go in and investigate Mountain Glenn and find out what's going on and get out. Seems simple enough but I do have questions to ask.
"Query. Once objectives have been completed. Do I rendezvous with you back in Atlas?" I asked as Ironwood was silent for a second before he shook his head.
"No. You will meet us at Beacon Academy. I will be there with my friend and you will tell us what you found. He also wishes to see you in person as well Lucia." Ozpin wishes to see me this early? Then again, I guess it makes sense… Ok then, I'll do it.
"Understood. Orders received. I should make my leave now general." I then turned around and walked into the elevator as I heard Ironwood speaking for the last time.
"And Lucia, do send me a report as to how your new body goes after this mission. Luna has been… restless at the chance of an upgrade."
That got a chuckle out of me as I nodded. "Understood general." And then the elevator closes.
And we are done! I hope you all enjoyed reading this chapter and I dearly wonder about your thoughts on it! Reading your reviews is one of the major factors that keeps me going in my stories! But yea, a bunch of stuff happened in this chapter and time skips as well.
We first have the introduction of some of Dr Kurt's creations. While some seemed bland while the others seem to hog all of the attention, I hope I managed to fill in all the stuff I promised and added to the story itself. I mean, Lucia has her bike because she made it herself and a jet that Dr Kurt managed to build and an underground hangar undetected from Atlesian authorities. That happened. Or am I ass-pulling over here?
Originally, I wanted everyone to get the construct upgrade but I changed my mind at the last minute as it seemed excessive to immediately give both Luna and Penny a power boost. But feel free to scream at me in the comments if it pissed ya off. And I want to expand upon how Dr Kurt pushed Atlas tech which also violates ethics with the idea of taking someone's aura and implanting it into a construct's body. Effectively turning them into weapons.
And if you were wondering what Lucia's jet looks like, it looks like the Griffin from StarCraft 2 Covert ops. It is much smaller in size though larger than bullhead in terms of length and size. And I'm a proud owner of Alpha in the game after I posted the last chapter! What are the chances eh?
One more thing, I want to see if we can bum up the number of followers and favourites. Let us start simple, shall we? Let us push the follower count to 250 and for Favourites to reach at least 200 people! With that, I have nothing much to say either than a request for you to follow and favourite me if you enjoy this story!
Do also leave a review of what you think of this chapter as I enjoy reading it and giving replies to it!
And with that, I will see your wonderful people in the future! After I take a day or two to rest up before moving on to the next project.
RGQC out!