Inside the laboratory, Dr. Merlot had recently cleared and refurnished. The semi-mad scientist was meticulously examining the intricate machinery before him for any errors, making sure that no mishaps happen during the process. His keen eyes filled with a mixture of excitement and apprehension, scrutinizing every detail of the aura transfer machine he had made. A culmination of years of research and experimentation that had found its way to the palm of his hands with little of a fuss.
The one who delivered it to him was Jaune Arc. He had brought him the invaluable schematics of the machine and also the brainchild of a certain Dr. Petro Polendina which he seems to have taken from and stored inside his strangely advanced Scroll. With the schematics, Dr. Merlot did not waste time and made his own machine, correcting what he saw as errors, and adding it to the pool of knowledge he had accumulated in years.
Inside the pod, the androids lay dormant, their metal-synthetic forms pulsating with energy as they awaited the moment of awakening. These were not mere machines; they were vessels imbued with fragments of Dr. Merlot's own aura, a daring experiment born from simple curiosity.
With practiced precision, Dr. Merlot initiated the transfer process, his hands dancing across the controls with practiced ease. The machine hummed to life, its mechanical components whirring and clicking in a symphony of creation. As the energy surged through the conduits, Jaune Arc stood by, his aura intermingling with Dr. Merlot, amplifying and stabilizing Merlot's aura.
A flicker of light danced across the androids' features, a spark of consciousness awakening within their synthetic minds. Red and Blue, the first of their kind, stirred within their confines, their eyes glowing with newfound awareness. They were no longer mere constructs; they were beings unto themselves, with an artificial soul and aura.
But the process clearly took its toll on Dr. Merlot, draining him of strength and vitality with each passing moment. Beads of sweat formed upon his brow as he struggled to maintain control, his voice strained with exertion.
"It's working," he murmured, his breath ragged with exhaustion. "But at what cost?"
As the last traces of energy faded into the pods, Dr. Merlot staggered back, his chest heaving with exertion. Jaune Arc caught him. His eyes remained on the androids, now infused with their creator's essence and complete with the instructions and programming.
But the Doctor perceived the truth. This feat of science was not sustainable. The strain upon his soul was too great, the risk of irreparable damage was too high.
As he gazed upon his creations, a sense of dread gnawed at his heart.
"It would be impossible to do this again," he whispered, his voice tinged with regret. "Impossible to recreate... without sacrificing everything. It's tearing and poking holes in my very soul. Two seems to be my limit."
And in that moment, amidst the whirring of machinery and the pulsating glow of artificial life, Dr. Merlot understood the true cost of using this machine. Jaune Arc's brows furrowed slightly as he regarded Dr. Merlot, a hint of surprise flickering in his eyes. "I must admit, Doctor, I'm somewhat taken aback that you would use Dr. Polendina's work at all."
Dr. Merlot, undeterred by Jaune's astonishment, met his gaze with a calm resolve. "Ah, but you see, Mr. Arc," he began, his voice carrying a measured tone, "my fascination lies not only with the pursuit of innovation but also with the exploration of artificial intelligence. Dr. Polendina's contributions to this field are undeniably significant, and as a scientist, I do not hesitate to leverage the knowledge and advancements made by others. I am not an Arthur Watts."
He paused, his expression thoughtful yet unwavering. "In the realm of science, knowledge is our currency, and to disregard the discoveries of our predecessors would be a disservice to the pursuit of progress. Innovation often builds upon the foundation laid by those who came before us, and I am not one to overlook valuable resources merely because they originate from another source."
With a gesture towards the array of machinery surrounding them, Dr. Merlot continued, "Every piece of information, every insight gained, contributes to our collective understanding of the world. It is not a matter of ownership but a collaboration of minds, each adding their unique perspective to the tapestry of human knowledge."
He offered Jaune a faint smile, the gleam of determination evident in his eyes. "Rest assured, Mr. Arc, my endeavors are driven not solely by ego," he laughed, as if he himself couldn't believe his own words, "but by a genuine thirst for discovery. And if that means incorporating the work of others into my own, then so be it. After all, in the pursuit of progress, there are no boundaries, only endless possibilities waiting to be explored."
Jaune's curiosity piqued, and he ventured further into the realm of Dr. Merlot's ambitious goal of turning Grimm against their own kind. "So you must have thought about infusing souls into Grimm?" he asked, his voice tinged with a mixture of intrigue and suspicion.
Dr. Merlot paused, considering Jaune's question with a thoughtful expression. "Ah, an interesting proposition indeed," he mused, his gaze drifting to the towering vats of swirling, viscous liquid that contained a captured Grimm essence. "While theoretically possible now that I have this machine, such a feat would be fraught with challenges."
He turned back to Jaune, his eyes alight with a spark of intellectual fervor. "You see, Mr. Arc, my ultimate goal is not merely to tames these creatures but to address the root cause of the Grimm problem itself. By harnessing the very essence of Grimm and transforming them into weapons against their own kind, we have the potential to turn the tide of this eternal struggle. The sole cure to the Grimm, a way to counter their genetic makeup."
He gestured towards the monitors displaying simulations of battles between Grimm and their mutated counterparts, the Grimm-infused creatures created through his experiments were faster and stronger than the base form of Grimm.
"The true solution lies in leveraging the inherent nature of Grimm to our advantage, to create a force capable of combating the Grimm that threatens Remnant."
Jaune nodded, a sense of understanding dawning upon him. "So, instead of trying to tame the Grimm, you seek to weaponize it," he concluded, his tone tinged with a hint of solemn acceptance.
Dr. Merlot offered a wry smile, acknowledging the gravity of their endeavor. "Indeed," he affirmed, his voice resonating with determination. "But for the betterment of humanity, of course."
Jaune scoffed. He then turned his attention to the screen displaying the upload process.
Dr. Merlot regarded Jaune with a quizzical expression, a faint furrow forming on his brow. "Forgive me for asking, Mr. Arc, but considering your remarkable combat prowess, why did you feel the need to seek assistance in the first place? From what I've witnessed, it seems as though nothing could stand in your way. You plowed through my defenses like they were nothing."
Jaune met Dr. Merlot's gaze evenly, his expression thoughtful yet resolute. "While strength and skill are undoubtedly valuable assets," he began, his voice steady with conviction, "overconfidence can be a fatal flaw. I've learned that it's better to have more helping hands than to rely solely on one's own abilities."
He paused, a faint crooked smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "That's why I entrusted you with the schematics to Project P.E.N.N.Y and the Aura Transfer machine," he explained, gesturing towards the intricate devices newly made in his laboratory. "By creating allies like Red and Blue here, I hoped to bolster our efforts and increase our chances of success. We are fighting two forces, Dr. Merlot. We need allies that don't take much effort and disposable."
Dr. Merlot nodded in understanding, a newfound respect gleaming in his eyes. "It is a wise decision indeed, Mr. Arc," he conceded, his tone tinged with admiration. "For fighting those appointed and cursed by the Brothers, collaboration and cooperation is key. I did not say it was unwise."
Jaune said nothing, running a hand over the glass of Red's pod.
Dr. Merlot fixed Jaune with a probing gaze, his curiosity clear in the furrow of his brow. "Tell me, Mr. Arc," he began, his tone measured and contemplative, "did you anticipate requiring assistance in your quest to capture the Relic of Knowledge from Haven's Vault?"
Jaune considered the question for a moment, his mind calculating the challenges that lay ahead. "It's possible," he admitted, his voice tinged with a note of uncertainty. "But first, we would need to locate the Spring Maiden, as she holds the key to accessing the Vault. And she's not an easy opponent. I have… some methods on how to take her down, but I have no prior experience of the Spring Maiden other than secondhand information…I don't want to test her limits so I'd rather overwhelm her before she can use her Semblance and I'm going to need your Androids and Mutated Grimm for that."
"I see."
At that moment, Dr. Merlot reached into a control panel and turned on a display. With a flourish, he presented data and reports to Jaune; the screen filled with detailed accounts of General Ironwood's movements and strategies in his pursuit of Raven Branwen's tribe.
"These reports," Dr. Merlot explained, his voice tinged with a hint of satisfaction, "were gathered by my assets, providing valuable insights into Ironwood's efforts to locate the Spring Maiden. It would seem that his search has led him to the outskirts of Mistral, where the trail grows cold or more literally where that woman's tribe left a scene of destruction from her raids."
Jaune eyed the reports, his gaze flickering over the dense text as he absorbed the information contained within. "I see that you have been busy, Doctor," he murmured. "This could prove invaluable in our search for the Spring Maiden."
Raven Branwen was only a stepping stone. Securing the Relic and safeguarding it was the primary goal.
Suddenly, Dr. Merlot's eyes gleamed with excitement as he turned to Jaune, a grin playing on his lips. "Come with me, Mr. Arc," he beckoned, his voice alive with anticipation. "I have something to show you."
Intrigued, Jaune followed the eccentric scientist through winding corridors and passages until they arrived at a secluded workshop hidden deep within the bowels of Merlot's complex. As the door swung open with a creak, Jaune's brows raised.
"So it's done?" Jaune asked.
Jaune followed Dr. Merlot into the armory, his eyes immediately drawn to the imposing figure of a rust-colored dust-steel armor standing proudly amidst the rows of weapons and equipment. The armor sent an eerie reminder of the armor he wore in the Everafter but somewhat more advanced, completely covering up most of the vulnerable parts, such as the elbows and knees.
"It's... impressive," Jaune remarked, his voice filled with awe as he took in the intricate details of the armor. The headpiece, in particular, caught his attention — a visored armet with a vaguely skull-like appearance, adorned with circles for ears and a mouth that held no defining traits of humanity, only the suggestion of a visage. The design mirroring Merlot's androids.
Dr. Merlot nodded, a hint of satisfaction playing upon his lips as he observed Jaune's reaction. "I'm glad you think so, Mr. Arc," he replied, his tone tinged with pride. "This is a new creation of mine, designed to provide maximum protection while still allowing for agility and maneuverability in combat. It has the same functions as of my Red and White Androids, capable of generating localized hard-light shielding. Ah, don't forget, this is the deployable projector you asked for."
Jaune's nodded and accepted the projector. His brow furrowed in confusion as he examined the armor more closely, his gaze lingering on the Merlot Industries logo emblazoned upon its chest plate. "But why?" he asked, his voice tinged with skepticism. "Why go through all this trouble? You're being too nice, Doc."
Dr. Merlot chuckled softly, his eyes crinkling at the corners with amusement. "Ah, but you see, Mr. Arc," he replied, his tone gentle yet firm, "the logo serves as a reminder of our partnership, a symbol of the collaboration between us. And as for being 'too nice,' well, let's just say it's in my best interest to ensure that my allies are well-equipped for whatever challenges may lie ahead."
Jaune snorted, taking off the logo emblazoned on the chest plate somewhat rather easily.
Dr. Merlot's gaze hardened as he fixed Jaune with a penetrating stare, the air between them thick with tension. "I know what you're doing, Mr. Arc," he declared, his voice low and steely. "You're using Merlot Industries as a shield for your own schemes, hiding behind the façade of collaboration while you pursue your own agenda."
Jaune's eyes widened in surprise at the accusation, his expression a mixture of defiance and resignation. "And what if I am?" he countered, his voice tinged with defiance. "You're not naïve, Doc. You know how this game is played."
Dr. Merlot's lips curved into a sardonic smile as he regarded Jaune with a knowing glint in his eyes. "Indeed, I am no amateur in this game," he conceded, his tone laced with a hint of amusement. "But don't mistake my willingness to cooperate for ignorance, Mr. Arc. I am well aware of your intentions."
"Why?" Jaune demanded, his voice tinged with frustration. "Why go through all this trouble? Is it because I can grab your neck and snap it?"
Dr. Merlot chuckled at the slight threat, a hint of sincerity shining through the layer of cynicism. "Because, Mr. Arc," he replied, his voice quiet yet resolute, "I truly believe in the potential of turning Grimm against their own kind. And if I can acquire the knowledge I need from the Relic you spoke of and get the answer to my question, then I will be satisfied."
He fixed Jaune with a steady gaze, his eyes reflecting a rare glimpse of vulnerability. "You promised me that one question, Mr. Arc," he reminded him, the weight of their shared purpose hanging heavy in the air. "And I will have it. So I don't mind throwing you all these gifts if it means that my research can progress. As you can see, I am not lacking in resources either. I can waste the money and time."
Jaune couldn't suppress the grin that spread across his face at Dr. Merlot's words. "Then I'm glad you understand where we stand, Doc," he replied flatly.
Dr. Merlot nodded in agreement, his expression a mixture of determination and resolve. "Indeed," he acknowledged, his voice tinged with a note of urgency. "Preparations are needed if we are to succeed in our endeavors. Playing a game with such ancient beings would be a challenge, but it is a challenge I welcome. So shall we start fitting it?"
Dr. Merlot's places his hands on the controls as Jaune readied himself to fit and wear the armor.
With the rust-colored metal armor encasing him like a second skin and Jade Marionette, now upgraded with a blue handle and a golden cross-guard, strapped securely to his side, Jaune stood tall and resolute. He tested the weight of his sword, feeling the familiar balance in his grip, and activated the mechanism that extended hard light from the crossguard, transforming it into a formidable greatsword.
As he stepped onto the dock, where Dr. Merlot's modified Atlas cargo airship was on a mobile base for Jaune to use. Two large wings stretch outwards, each adorned with a pair of intakes. Perched atop these wings are three smaller winglets, and at the rear of the airship were three formidable engines. Within the heart of the airship lies its nerve center, a station where the pilot commands the ship. Towards the stern, the cargo hold was open. The most noticeable about the airship was the subtle logo of Merlot Industries replacing where the Atlas symbol should be.
Red and Blue joined Jaune. The newly born androids wore imposing frames adorned with the unmistakable insignia of Merlot Industries emblazoned proudly upon their chests. Neon lights traced intricate patterns across their entire bodies, casting a mesmerizing glow that accentuated their imposing presence. Their eyes, glowing with an eerie crimson and azure brilliance, pierced through the darkness like beacons of technological prowess.
Each android carried a formidable mini-gun capable of unleashing a barrage of bullets and grenades with deadly precision lugged on their back, though Red carried a double-ended glaive. The sleek metal armor they wore, intricately highlighted in hues of red and blue. Their heads, covered with a vague semblance of a skull, exuded a menacing aura. Where faces would typically reside, only the suggestion of a mouth and the piercing gaze of their helmet's neon-lit eyes marked their visage and circular protrusions, covering their ears.
"This is where we part ways for now," he said, his voice tinged with both regret and anticipation as he transferred the controls to the androids. "We will remain in contact, but I will be using this opportunity to study more of my mutant Grimm and perhaps refine my formula, while you embark on your mission to recover the relic. I assure you Red and Blue have been programmed to assist you, and I have uploaded them with the necessary skills to do so."
Jaune nodded in understanding, grateful for the scientist's assistance and determination. "See you, Doctor," he replied, his voice filled with gratitude. "That reminds, couldn't bother to name these two?" Jaune thumbed at Red and Blue.
"Hmm, I was thinking of naming Red as Sarge and Blue as Carolina… but I find it better not attach such names for now," Dr. Merlot made a serious thought about it. "For now, Red and Blue will do."
"That so?"
Jaune snorted, allowing his companions to board the heavily modified Atlas cargo airship. The two androids went straight to the cockpit. Jaune stood at the helm of the modified Atlas cargo airship, watching Red and Blue worked in tandem to ensure a smooth departure from Dr. Merlot's pad. Red's armored fingers danced across the array of switches and levers, while Blue monitored the engine readouts that made the two looked experienced despite recently being 'born' just a few moments ago.
With a low rumble, the engines roared to life, the powerful thrum of its engines reverberating through the hull of the airship. Jaune felt the vibrations beneath his feet.
"Engines at optimal levels," Red called out, his voice flat.
"Ready to ascend," Blue added, her armored hands poised over the controls with unwavering confidence.
Jaune nodded at them. With a last glance at the control panel, he instructed them to push forward, and the airship lurched forward, breaking free from Dr. Merlot's pad.
As they shot up into the open sky, Jaune couldn't help but sink into his seat.
Mistral awaited them.
Their destination was going to be troublesome, with Ironwood and Cinder trying their best to find Raven.
Finding the Spring Maiden was easy, but making her cooperate with him was the most troublesome part.