Disclaimer: I don't own the BLoSC series or the movie. Enjoy!
Chapter 17
Mega Pack
Few hours after Zyra left the facility in secret, the Gamma Laboratory buzzed with its usual scientific activities, night shift researchers engrossed in experiments and analysis, when suddenly, the silence was shattered by the distinct sound of hydraulic mechanisms.
The white gates, typically closed and restricted, unexpectedly swung open, granting access to an express shuttle that had smoothly maneuvers its way inside the facility. The sleek vehicle drove towards the main doors of the laboratory, arousing curiosity and a sense of anticipation among the security guards who paused their work to witness this out of the blue arrival.
A man emerged from the shuttle, his brown hair is unusually styled with two thin, upward-facing points on each side and one larger, flatter point in the middle, a distinct signature that made him immediately recognizable to many.
Professor Spyro Lepton, a dedicated scientist with a passion for unravelling the mysteries of the universe, hurriedly made his way inside the laboratory.
Entering the Gamma Laboratory, Professor Spyro Lepton barely spared a glance for the familiar faces that lined the hallway, all eager to exchange pleasantries and catch up on recent developments.
His unwavering focus propelled him forward, overriding the niceties of social convention. Colleagues, accustomed to his single-minded dedication, understood that when Professor Lepton had an important scientific discovery within his grasp, nothing else mattered.
As he neared the midpoint, he saw Osmar striding purposefully towards him, their paths converging. They exchanged a brief nod before falling into step together.
The professor couldn't help but express his curiosity. "Osmar, what was so urgent that you called me in the middle of the night?"
Osmar, his voice barely a whisper, "it appears that the crystal core's stability is far more precarious than we initially anticipated. It seems to be experiencing intermittent fluctuations in its energy output, causing unpredictable momentarily surge."
As he spoke, Professor Lepton couldn't help but notice Osmar's fidgety hands, a clear sign of nervousness and anxiety.
Professor Lepton held a particular affinity for Osmar, finding himself favoring him above the rest of the scientists, recognizing his unique skills and contributions.
Concerned for his fellow man of science, he inquired, "What's troubling you? You seem on edge."
Reassuringly, Osmar replied, "Oh, don't worry, Professor. I'm fine. It's just that I experienced a sudden rise in my senses few nights ago while I was at home. It was quite intense, but thankfully, it subsided by morning."
Taking note of Osmar's explanation, Professor Lepton's expression turned serious. He had long been aware of Osmar's extraordinary talent, his innate ability to sense and perceive threats, whether they were visible or concealed in the shadows of the unknown.
The phenomenon that Osmar had experienced weighed heavily for its implications is undeniably grave and demanded immediate attention.
"Keep a close eye on things, Osmar. We can't afford any leaks or unauthorized access to the crystal in the Spectra Lab. Only those I've personally selected can be trusted with that knowledge. We will discuss more in the lab."
Osmar nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. He vowed to remain vigilant, ensuring the crystal's secrecy and safeguarding the valuable research within Spectra Lab.
The bustling lab environment during night shifts faded into the background as they directed their attention towards the Spectra lab section. They walked through the outer layer into the inner Spectra lab, their presence commanding attention.
Disregarding the curious glances and expectant eyes of his fellow scientists, Professor Lepton remained undeterred in his mission. He shut out the distractions and honed his attention solely on the crystal, fully aware that within its mysterious depths lay the potential to unlock ground-breaking knowledge.
Without missing a beat, Professor Lepton wasting no time in diving straight into business. He signal Osmar as the dark skinned man approached one of the scientists involved in the crystal core research, requesting a detailed report of their findings.
Osmar carefully reviewed the document, ensuring every crucial aspect was covered. Satisfied with its contents, he proceeded to hand it over to Professor Lepton.
The weight of anticipation hung heavy in the air as Professor Lepton greedily read the analysis reports.
"Fascinating," Professor Lepton remarked, "Despite the short time it happened, the spike in energy seemed to exhibit a unique frequency modulation pattern, which we haven't observed before."
Osmar added, "Our initial analysis suggests that the high energy could be tied to the crystal's internal structure and its interaction with external electromagnetic fields."
Professor Lepton furrowed his brow and spoke, "We must address this issue immediately. Have you explored any possible solutions?"
"Indeed, Professor. We're currently investigating different approaches. One option is to reinforce the crystal's support structure, enhancing its resilience against these vibrations. Additionally, we're examining the surrounding energy modulation systems for any potential interference," Osmar explained.
"Good. I want detailed reports on those results," Professor Lepton said, "We may be on the brink of a significant breakthrough in energy technology. Keep up the great work, Osmar."
"Thank you, Sir," Osmar responded, "I'll compile the data and have the scientists gather it right away. With your guidance and support, I'm confident we can unlock the true potential of the crystal power core and make use for it as renewable energy source."
As Osmar left him alone with the crystal and approached a group of scientists nearby, Professor Lepton watched him with a hint of amusement and shook his head at what he perceived as Osmar's naivety. Although he had come to trust and admire Osmar's skills, Professor Lepton recognized that the young man still had much to learn.
Renewable energy? Ha! That's a good one. He thought to himself.
With a knowing smirk, Professor Lepton reached out and touched the crystal core. He felt the pulse radiating from the crystal, even seeing the cryptic symbols that are etched on the inner crystal core yet to be deciphered sends a thrilling surge of anticipation through his veins.
The recent developments and the insights gained from the crystal power core are the only basis to prove one of the professor's long-held theories, as it has finally come to fruition.
Rather than using the crystal energy for mundane purposes, he envisioned harnessing its immense power to fuel Star Command's soldiers, arming them with an unparalleled energy source. The eradication of the galaxy's sworn enemy, Zurg, seemed within reach with such a potent weapon at their disposal.
A determined glint sparkled in Professor Lepton's eyes as he contemplated the implications of his newfound theory. The crystal's energy could revolutionize warfare and tip the scales in favor of Star Command.
He, Professor Spryo Lepton, will exploit the crystal's potential, envisioning a future where Zurg's tyranny would be nothing more than a distant memory.
The galaxy's salvation lay in the convergence of scientific brilliance and tactical strategy, and he was ready to lead the charge.
The following day was considered a well-deserved rest day from the relentless lab work. After days of tireless experimentation and analysis, the scientists took a break to recharge their minds and bodies.
While the equipment and experiments lay dormant, the scientists embraced this much-needed pause, knowing that rejuvenation was crucial to their continued pursuit of scientific innovation.
However, for Zyra, the free time held a different purpose. While her colleagues sought rest and relaxation, she had an important matter to attend to. Half a day had gone by, and yet the results were elusive…leaving Zyra pacing back and forth in her dimly lit living room, frustration etched on her face.
She discreetly accessed the spy cameras she had skillfully installed throughout Spectra Lab, aiming to monitor any unusual activities. The screens displayed a scene of scientists encircling the enigmatic crystal core, engrossed in their meticulous observations. However, what truly startled Zyra was the unexpected presence of Professor Spyro Lepton himself.
So far, nothing of significance was unfolding, Zyra decided to stop her surveillance by terminating the spy camera feed.
Meanwhile, her partner was busy tampering with the home console computer.
Desmond remained motionless, his physical form seemingly melded with console through the cable port. As of right now, his consciousness delved deep into the sea of data, analyzing every fragment and intricate detail.
Time seemed to stand still as he deciphered the complex codes and algorithms, his mind navigating the vast digital landscape while she checks other data pad logs.
Yet, even though they did all that, the stolen data from Spectra's laboratory had yielded nothing, leaving her more perplexed than ever. There were no other logs about the runes, they simply just written down and can't find a single clue about the language. She had also hoped that the information would hold the key to understanding the strange power the crystal had over her, but it seems no use.
Desmond still continues to search, all the while running into dead ends.
She picked up one of the observation logs, scanning through it once again, desperate to find a missing clue. The logs detailed various experiments conducted on the crystal, but they only revealed its physical properties and its ability to emit a unique energy signature. There was no mention of its power over individuals or any indication of why it affected only her.
Zyra's mind raced with possibilities. Had she overlooked something crucial from the episode? Did she miss a vital detail from the incident itself? Maybe there was another ability of the crystal that hadn't been documented. Or perhaps its true power would only be revealed when Spyro or any living being fully merged with it, as the episode had suggested.
Her frustration grew, and she flung the data pad across the room. Books and scattered papers flew through the air, mirroring the chaotic state of her mind.
Despite the loud commotion in the room, Desmond remained completely immersed in his task, his focus firm as he delved deeper into the complexities of the stolen data. Oblivious to the world around him, he was consumed by his commitment to unravelling the mysteries hidden within.
Zyra couldn't help but respect his tenacity, the way he dedicated himself to the pursuit of knowledge. However, as her anger simmered beneath the surface, she couldn't deny that his dedication did little to pacify her own frustrations.
Taking a deep breath, Zyra forced herself to calm down. She knew that giving in to anger and impatience wouldn't solve anything. She needed a new approach, a fresh perspective to uncover the truth behind the mysterious crystal.
Zyra decided it was time to take a break from the chaos and seek comfort in her garden. Stepping outside, she was greeted by a symphony of chirping birds and the gentle rustling of leaves
Zyra settled herself on a wooden bench, an addition from moving in. Closing her eyes, she took a deep breath, allowing the aroma of blooming flowers to envelop her senses. As her mind quieted, Zyra allowed her thoughts to drift away. The worries, the unanswered questions, and the weight of everything faded into the background.
She focused on herself, why she needed to do this.
Zyra found herself alone in a universe she didn't recognize, burdened with the weight of future knowledge. The vastness of the unknown stretched before her, a daunting expanse of possibilities and challenges. She knew that her mere presence in this universe was not a coincidence. She possessed knowledge of events yet to come, a glimpse into the future that could shape the course of existence.
But the weight of that knowledge threatened to overwhelm her. Doubts crept into her mind, whispering the possibility of failure and the consequences it would bring.
Where reality itself seemed to dance to the tune of a cartoon verse, she had always believed that she knew what to expect. The villains she had knew were mischievous and their plans often predictable, easily foiled by their clever counterparts.
But Zyra soon realized that even in a realm of colourful animations and seemingly harmless characters, danger lurked in unexpected places. The world around her had a way of defying expectations.
There are other planets, its inhabitants' found themselves ensnared in the webs of psychological manipulation, as their adversaries sought to exploit their deepest fears and insecurities. There is corruption in every sector. A struggle for political power and freedom from oppression raged on.
Amidst these treacherous events in this strange world, one thing remained steadfast—the need to survive.
It was the burning desire for self-preservation that had initially drawn Zyra to the allure of the crystal's power. She recognized that unlocking its secrets would provide her with the means to achieve the strength she so desperately craved, a power that could level the playing field and enable her to face formidable adversaries head-on.
In this moment of quiet reflection, she found clarity.
After all the revelations, Zyra comes to a realization that it is her intellect also holds true power, the driving force that has aided her in countless situations. It is her sharp mind and resourcefulness that have consistently propelled her forward, serving as her most reliable and potent weapon.
Once she adds the power of the crystal into the equation, there is no one who can stop her. She will finally feel safe, free from the shadows of fear and uncertainty that have haunted her for far too long.
With each breath, Zyra let go of the tension that had built up within her. She focused on the rhythmic rise and fall of her chest, finding a sense of peace in the simple act of being present in the moment. She got up from her seat and head back inside the house.
Entering her living room, Zyra settled herself at her desk beside the non-moving form of Desmond, surrounded by scattered papers and glowing data screens. She allowed her mind to wander, exploring different possibilities and potential avenues to pursue.
Zyra's eyes fixed upon the ancient symbols inscribed on the computer.
ᚠᛚᚨᛗᛖ…ᚢᚨᛚᚲᛁᚱᚨᚾ…ᚹᛟᚱᚦᛁ…
There are fourteen runic symbolic words floating around the crystal. She studied each intricate line and curve, searching for hidden meanings and connections. She knew these cryptic symbols form a sentence but she is not familiar with the ancient language of it.
Were they ancient runes, imbued with hidden power and ancient knowledge? Or were they remnants of a forgotten language, lost to the test of time, waiting to be deciphered? Their intricate designs and cryptic nature intrigued her, tempting her to delve deeper into their meaning.
As the connection between Desmond and the computer made a noise, he emerged from the depths of digital exploration.
Blinking away the residual traces of virtual immersion, he refocused his attention on Zyra, who awaited his findings with anticipation.
"Welcome back to the real world. Did we missed anything?" Zyra inquired.
Desmond, though fatigued, shook his head.
"Negative. I combed through the data exhaustively and we have uncovered all that we could gleaned from extensive analysis of the data."
Zyra let out a heavy sigh of disappointment.
Despite their best efforts, their search for new insights seemed futile. Zyra had hoped for a glimmer of hope that would propel their research forward. Suddenly, a spark of inspiration ignited within her.
"What if we gained access to the Galactic Alliance Mainframe Computer?"
Desmond tilts his head in confusion, considering her words carefully.
"Master, wasn't that planned as a backup should we fail to infiltrate Spectra Laboratory?"
"Yes," Zyra said with a determination, "but the Mainframe Computer could hold the key to unravelling the mysteries we sought."
Her mind raced with the potential implications. She understood the importance of maintaining the integrity of what's left of the original timeline, ensuring that no inadvertent changes occurred. Which is why she has to be the one to do it herself.
Zyra contemplated a strategy to navigate the Mainframe's labyrinthine corridors without disturbing the delicate balance of information stored within.
"I think we can go with it," Zyra answered as she brings out the data and patrol routes in the Mainframe area Desmond had gathered, "I can visualize my approach on how to get in and out without being seen."
She was so motivated to retrieve the specific data they needed from the Mainframe herself while preserving the integrity of other hidden data folders, however, she never anticipated Desmond's objection to her bold attempt.
Desmond shook his head with a resolute look. He refused to let his master shoulder the mission and spoke aloud.
"No."
Zyra paused on her work and look at him with a shock face.
"Master," Desmond took a knee and bowed deeply in front of her," I meant no disrespect to your high caliber capabilities, but I must refuse to let you undertake this mission yourself. I have already memorize all the possible routes, escape plots and the inner routine done in the Mainframe building. Therefore, I have all the right prerequisites in my data bank. So…Please, allow me to take this mission."
Within his inner thoughts, he couldn't help but worry about her occasional recklessness when it came to facing danger.
He had witnessed Zyra's fierce determination first hand, but he knew that protecting her was his duty as her loyal companion. The thought of anything happening to her sent a shiver down his spine, and he vowed to do whatever it took to shield her from harm. While his respect for her brilliance and independence still holds up and beyond, he still worries, driven by his unwavering devotion to her well-being.
Zyra's eyes widened with concern as she observed Desmond's selflessness and his resolve to protect her. Hesitating for a brief moment, Zyra considered her options and weighed the circumstances. Deep down, she knew without a doubt that Desmond possessed the necessary skills for this critical mission at hand.
Zyra trusted Desmond's loyalty completely, knowing he would follow her orders without hesitation. She was confident that Desmond would never compromise their mission by seeking unnecessary documents from their enemies' computers.
However, they are dealing with a super computer, one that is capable of overpowering and incapacitating both human minds and artificial intelligences.
Therefore, the consequences of mishandling the mainframe were awful, with an impending risk that loomed over her loyal companion. Zyra wrestled with doubt and nerves as she contemplated sending Desmond.
But…
Despite not showing any emotions on his robotic facial plates, she could sense his clear intention to see the task through.
It was a palpable energy that she couldn't ignore.
Rather than outright rejecting Desmond's offer to take on the task, Zyra found herself faced with a challenging dilemma.
She understood the risks involved and the potential danger that awaited him. Zyra had to devise alternative strategies to navigate this predicament. Even XR had troubles focusing his motherboard while blurting out facts here and there when he combine his mind to the Mainframe. But that is because XR was a special case since he is created by the same hands who made the super computer.
Which gave her an idea.
Zyra let out a sigh and faced Desmond. "Okay... I'm entrusting you with the task, Des," she said.
Desmond perked up at her words as Zyra continued, "And here's how we're going to do it."
In the crowded streets of Capital City, the nights unfolded in a symphony of vibrant energy and enchanting sights.
Among the flurry of activity, some sought solace in the tranquility of the night, relishing in its serene embrace. They strolled along moonlit paths, savoring the gentle breeze and marveling at the star-studded sky. Meanwhile, a different group immersed themselves in their endeavors, diligently working in offices, hospitals, and laboratories.
One such facility, Gamma Laboratory, despite the late hour, its halls hummed with activity. As the clock ticked closer to midnight, a cargo shuttle emerged from the facility, its engines revving with purpose.
As the shuttle flew past the city entrance, Desmond, lurking atop the towering buildings, seized the moment to execute his daring plan. Activating his state-of-the-art cloaking device, he effortlessly leaped down and hopped off from one flying vehicle to another, nimble and undetectable. With each calculated jump, he closed the distance until he finally ascended to the rear of the truck, avoiding any suspicion from the driver.
The driver and a couple of Star Commander Robot officers heard a loud thud from behind but the driver ignored it, thinking he had hit a sign or something like that. Two patrol bots exchanged glances before one of them proceeded towards the rear of the truck to investigate the source of the noise.
With precise keystrokes on the console computer, the code was entered, causing the door to smoothly slide open, revealing the inner compartment. The patrol bot, its headlight illuminating the surroundings, scanned the area for any signs of disturbance. Finding nothing out of the ordinary, it retraced its steps back to the front as it never notices the concealed metallic board covering a small hole on the floor, cleverly hidden behind a couple of metal boxes.
Emerging from the corner, Desmond deactivated his cloaking device and moved to seal the hole using the laser-equipped servo, mindful of not touching the detection lines. Having completed his task, he returned to the corner and patiently waited for the truck to come to a complete stop.
Knowing that it would take approximately another few minutes to reach their intended destination after staking out for few nights where the shuttle goes off at scheduled time, Desmond took the opportunity to mentally review the plan he had meticulously discussed with his master.
"The sheer amount of data coming from the Mainframe computer can be overwhelming, leading to potential overload to any technical motherboard. Yours included. So in order to counter it, we need necessary programs and other data packs to aid in containing them while you go in deep search through it all."
Zyra carefully arranged the assortment of files she had obtained from the Gamma laboratory on her home computer console, making them visible for Desmond. The screen displayed a vast array of designs, classified lab works, and rejected projects that had originated from the laboratory. Among the multitude of schematics, one particular design dominated the center of attention.
This design was the brainchild of his master—an ingenious device known as the Mega Pack.
Its purpose was to safeguard his internal hard drive from potential short circuits while he navigates within the system.
The only missing element was a few essential components that, once acquired, would bring the Mega Pack to completion and stabilizes his digital presence.
She hovered her hand over the rejected projects file, singling out a single file among many.
"This is one of the main component you need."
As she enlarged the file, a schematic of a small robot with a conspicuous rejected mark came into view. The image was accompanied by several bullet points detailing the robot's purpose and a huge DECOMMISSION sign over it, but Zyra's focus was elsewhere. Ignoring the general features, she directed her attention to a specific program engine that had caught her eye.
Intrigued by its potential, Desmond leaned forward, fully attentive.
Zyra explained, "From what I know in my time in Gamma, all Star Command-related programs are compatible to one another, this is to ensure that they have complete control over it. Therefore, this specific program has the one thing I need to make Mega Pack fully functional. I know that the engine is outdated by a year or two, but I would much rather reprogram an existing engine than create a new one from scratch, which could take months or even years."
Desmond quickly grasped the essence of Zyra's statement. When programs possess similarities and align in functionality, their ability to collaborate seamlessly increases. As a result, if an intruder manages to obtain an identical program and use it on other programs with the same coding, hacking into it becomes significantly easier. Hence, bypassing the security lines with ease.
"The detailed information regarding the program is limited exclusively to high-profile individuals. Therefore, we are left with no alternative but to obtain it directly from the main source. So, this is your task," Zyra remarked, her eyes fixed on the screen displaying the files, "They must have a secured base for storing all failed projects, somewhere secluded away from public view. It may have its purpose to safeguard them from going into the wrong hands. However, it won't be long before it becomes ours."
With an air of uncertainty, Desmond acknowledged that he was stepping into the unknown, but he decided to face whatever awaited him. Just as he contemplated the task ahead, a red light flickered inside the compartment, serving as a signal that their journey had reached its intended destination.
Desmond felt the shuttle descended, touching the ground with a gentle thud. He double-checked the status of his cloaking device, making sure it is still active, shrouding him in invisibility. Eager with anticipation, he readied himself to swiftly emerge through the doors as soon as they swung open.
Seconds ticked by, the doors finally parted, revealing the figures of two Star Command staff workers engaged in the task of unloading the metal boxes. Desmond seized the moment, his movements controlled as he gracefully stepped out of the shuttle, his feet meeting the ground with a soft landing.
Taking a brief moment to survey his surroundings, his eyes absorbed the sight of the expansive storage facility, a swarming hive of activity with individuals busy about their assigned duties.
Desmond felt a slight irritating vibration in the air, confirming that what he and his master had suspected was true. They had assumed there would be communication interference at this place, leaving him to venture blindly without his master's guidance. There's no turning back now, he will make do with what he has for the time being, determined to forge ahead despite the limitations.
He launch a few capsules out from his palm and throws it over to some heavy equipment machineries, securing his escape plan.
Remaining close to the shuttle, Desmond strategically positioned himself to trail the staff worker entrusted with the metal box labelled defect. One of the workers carefully grasped the coveted box, placing it onto a cart and briskly navigated through a corridor.
Desmond silently tracked his movements and discreetly shadowing him. Undetected, Desmond maintained a safe distance as he walked around people and robots passing his way, while pursuing the path leading to the destination where all items of its kind were destined to converge.
As he navigated through the labyrinthine corridors while following the oblivious staff worker, Desmond is intrigued by the glass windowed rooms that lined the facility. Each room seemed to hold a different realm of scientific discovery, an assortment of experiments and research unfolding behind their transparent barriers.
But he is not here for sightseeing, he has a mission to complete.
He soon arrives at a wide two-door entrance that smoothly opens to the staff worker, granting access to both him and Desmond inside. Just like any other state-of-the-art storage facility, the expansive room was lined with rows and rows of meticulously shelved metal boxes.
Immersed in their duties, the staff worker approached the robot officer in charge to settle the necessary arrangements.
Seizing this opportunity, Desmond navigated down the aisle in search of the specific item he sought. Desmond searched each aisle, examined the labels and titles suspended above.
After few minutes of walking, he finally arrived at the aisle harboring his ultimate prize. Stepping between the towering shelves, he continued his stride until he reached the very end. And there, gleaming under the room's fluorescent lights, was the object of his quest—a long, sleek metal box, proudly adorned with the unmistakable label:
XL
With a quick flicker of his visor scanner, Desmond assessed the storage box before him. The light weight box is heavily guarded with a motion sensor. He needed time to decode the protective layer and unlock its contents discreetly, without rousing the attention of the vigilant staff or alerting the entire building.
This was the moment when Desmond commenced on his next crucial step.
His visor gleamed brightly as he activated a small code within his internal drive, initiating a sequence to start.
In the busy halls of the hangar area, where shuttles continuously entered and exited, scientists and people alike are working in their own fields, waiting for the time to clock off and rest in their homes.
However, left unaware of the strange phenomenon unfolding nearby. Suddenly, a shimmering purple static materialized around a dormant forklift, infusing it with newfound vitality. The forklift roared to life, its engine alerting a few individuals close by.
With a mind of its own, the possessed machinery ploughed through the labyrinth of boxes, causing an uproar in its wake.
As confusion and panic spread, a few valiant Star Command Robot officers arrived on the scene, determined to bring an end to the rampage. Yet, to their astonishment, another heavy construction vehicle also succumbed to the mysterious influence and joined in the havoc, intensifying the threat that lay before them.
EMERGENCY! EMERGENCY! REQUESTING ANY AVAILABLE GUARD UNITS TO HANGAR SUB BAY 6! I REPEAT! ANY AVAILABLE GUARD UNITS TO HANGAR SUB BAY 6 WITH UTMOST URGENCY!
For the safety of all personnel, we request all workers from unaffected areas to remain inside until further notice!
Paying no heed to the ongoing chaos outside and the repetitive announcement blaring aloud in the room, Desmond directed his attention solely to the locked box before him.
He launched a cable cord from his palm and skillfully connected it to the available port on the box.
A surge of familiarity washed over Desmond as he observed the digital patterns on the display, reminiscent of the intricate codes he had encountered during his daring infiltration of Star Command years ago. A mix of emotions swirled within him, but foremost among them was a sense of disappointment. The lack of challenge presented by these seemingly antiquated security measures was an affront to his expertise.
Having honed his art of decryption after going through painstaking analysis of the formidable security key cards used by Spectra, being confronted with such simplicity felt like an insult to the depth of his capabilities.
Desmond decided to reign in his dark emotions in order to complete the task at hand. He successfully navigates around the lock code and opens the metal box, only to be surprised by the presence of a robot inside. Based on the characteristics and design, he deduces that this non-functioning robot is likely XL.
Beside it were three archive tablets, each labelled in order: DECOMMISION ORDER, LGM LOGS AND PROGRAMS.
After quickly browsing through the contents of the first two tablets, his attention shifted to the PROGRAMS tablet.
As Desmond read the initial two entries, it became apparent why XL had been rejected from Star Command Ranger recruitment. The first entry detailed an ambitious experiment where an untested A.I. chip was implanted, hoping it would function flawlessly. However, as he read further, it became evident that the attempt had been unsuccessful.
The decision to test an unverified program on a larger scale without ensuring its safety on a smaller scale violated fundamental coding principles, leading to XL's failure.
Desmond gazed upon the motionless form of XL, feeling a sense of pity for the failed robot. What's worse it was only activated for a day and removed immediately.
The fault shouldn't be on the robot, but rather with their creator. This made him feel grateful for his own creation and the opportunity to serve his master. While Desmond took solace in the fact that his master diligently check his regular updates, he couldn't help but lament the missed chance for the small robot to be reprogrammed and rectify the previous errors.
Truly an unfortunate one.
"But fear not," he silently vowed, "I won't allow you to remain in stasis any longer."
While he downloaded the engine program, Desmond simultaneously loaded another viral file from his hard drive, pulls out another wire cable cord, and connected it to XL's red metallic head.
"There will come a time in the near future when I'll need your assistance for my master," Desmond said as both loading bars are full, "until then, rest and recharge well."
With the engine program stored in his mind, Desmond closed the metallic box and discreetly departed from the room, remaining unnoticed by the panicked staff worker and the overseeing robot left behind.
Approaching the bay hangar area, Desmond observed the chaotic scene with heavy machinery in disarray and people frantically reacting on the side-lines. He gestured with his hand, commanding one of the larger trucks to forcefully collide with the hangar doors. The truck complied, ramming itself against the sturdy entrance, causing a resounding crash and creating a massive hole.
Unfazed by the turmoil surrounding him, Desmond calmly strolled, passing through the newly created hole in the hangar doors. Oblivious to the frantic cries and the efforts of the Star Command Robot officers attempting to regain control, he maintained his composed demeanor and steadily distanced himself from the scene of madness.
He started to sprint off, leaving behind the pandemonium and confusion in his wake.
Author's Note: Hey, guys! I hope you like the chapter so far, even though I'm slow to updates. Anyways! As a token of my appreciation for you readers still checking my story out, here's a sneak peak!
Sneak Peak:
Desmond's claws paused their rapid dance across the console's keys as an unexpected presence interrupted his concentration. With a slight twist of his body, he redirected his gaze to the side, seeking the source of the disturbance that had caught him in the act.
The blue bipedal registered the uninvited guest before him.
He could see the usual standard Star Command uniform, the unmistakable laser gauntlet pointed at his way, and the piercing gaze from reptilian eyes all triggered a sense of déjà vu.
Desmond feels like he recognize him from somewhere but more importantly…startled for the fact on…
How on earth did the ranger bypass their surveillance?
That's all for now! See you on the next chapter!