章 16: The Mechanical Vanguard
The workshop hummed softly as Edwin completed the final adjustments to his first mechanical knight. Standing over eight feet tall, the knight's dark alloyed frame exuded strength and precision, with runes etched across its surface glowing faintly, pulsing in rhythm with the energy core nestled in its chest. Edwin had worked in absolute solitude, ensuring no one but him laid eyes on this creation. His workshop was his sanctum, and he had no intention of sharing its secrets—not with his family, nor anyone else.
---
Edwin stepped back, wiping the oil from his hands. "AI, begin core synchronization and activate the knight," he commanded.
The AI's voice resonated clearly. **"Core synchronization initiated. Energy levels stabilizing. Estimated time to full activation: 10 seconds."**
The knight's core began to glow, and a low hum filled the air as power surged through its systems. Slowly, the knight moved, its joints flexing smoothly as if shaking off centuries of dormancy. It turned its head, its glowing eyes locking onto Edwin before it knelt, its massive frame lowering in a gesture of obedience.
"Status report," Edwin said, arms crossed as he observed the knight's movements.
**"Combat capability is equivalent to a silver-rank knight. Structural integrity is optimal. Minor improvements could increase agility and reaction speed by 3%."**
Edwin nodded. "Understood. Begin combat simulation. Project holographic targets around the workshop."
The room transformed instantly as holographic enemies materialized, surrounding the mechanical knight. Without hesitation, the knight sprang into action. Its massive sword cleaved through the targets with precision, its movements powerful yet controlled. Each strike demonstrated the lethal potential of Edwin's creation.
"Blade alignment is slightly off on upward strikes," Edwin noted. "AI, adjust the center of gravity by 0.5 units."
The knight moved with greater fluidity, striking faster and harder with each subsequent test. Edwin couldn't help but feel a tinge of satisfaction. This was the culmination of weeks of effort, a manifestation of both his intellect and the AI's advanced capabilities.
As the test concluded, Edwin deactivated the knight, its imposing frame returning to stillness. He guided it to a reinforced chamber within the workshop, locking it securely.
"This stays between us," Edwin murmured to himself.
The workshop had remained off-limits to all—no servant, steward, or family member had ever set foot inside. It was his domain, built for his ambitions alone. Everything Edwin did, he did for himself. The Umbracrest family and their affairs were secondary at best.
---
It had been ten days since Baron Caine, Cedric, and Baroness Eleanor departed for Viscount Grantor's banquet. Originally expected to return by now, their delay had been explained in a letter from Cedric. Due to unforeseen complications, they were now expected back in three days.
Edwin leaned against his workbench, glancing at the chronometer on the wall. Time was on his side, and he intended to make the most of it.
"AI," Edwin said, sitting back in his chair. "Analyze today's data. Begin drafting design modifications for the next prototype. We'll focus on modular adaptability—terrain variants, combat-specific enhancements, and stealth systems."
**"Analysis underway. Preliminary designs will be ready in 24 hours."**
Edwin nodded, his thoughts already drifting toward future improvements. The knight he had created was just the beginning—not of some grand conquest, but a personal arsenal, a means to carve out his path without interference or reliance on anyone else.
For now, his first mechanical knight stood ready, a silent sentinel guarding him and paving the way for what lay ahead.
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