(Chapter 52 Fontaine Research Institute)
"Good luck, Tempest."
Gardon bid farewell to Tempest with a warm embrace, hugging him tightly and giving his back a reassuring pat before stepping back.
"Penance, make sure you always listen to your brother, alright?"
Gardon said, gently patting her head as he spoke.
"Got it, Uncle."
Penance replied, wrapping her arms around Gardon in a warm hug. Gardon smiled and hugged her back, holding her close for a moment longer.
"Thank you for everything, Uncle."
Tempest said sincerely. Gardon gave a nod of acknowledgment before gently releasing Penance from their embrace. He stepped back, giving them one final look filled with pride and affection as they prepared to set sail.
"I expect to hear good news once you both return."
Gardon said with a warm smile. He curled his hand into a fist and placed it over his chest, giving them a respectful salute. His eyes reflected both hope and pride as he bid them farewell.
Tempest and Penance nodded in response, turning to board the Dreadnought. Just as they were about to step onto the ship, a faint ding echoed from the elevator in the distance. The doors slid open, revealing a figure Tempest recognized immediately.
"Lady Furina?"
Tempest muttered to himself, his eyes narrowing as he recognized her. He quickly made his way over to greet her. As he approached, he noticed the unmistakable look of displeasure on her face. Meanwhile, Penance and Gardon, sensing the tension, chose to stay back, observing from a respectful distance, not wanting to intrude.
"My Lady? What brings you all the way over here?"
Tempest asked Furina.
"Hmph, I simply want to watch you sail away from a distance, but don't come crying to me if the seas suddenly decide to sink your ship in a storm, got it?"
Furina spoke with a hint of annoyance, her words tinged with a hint of lightheartedness as she pretended to threaten Tempest.
Tempest's expression shifted to one of surprise at Furina's words. He had always believed that Focalors, the Hydro Archon, possessed the power to command the seas and could easily sink his ship with just a mere thought if she so desired.
"I was joking, Tempest."
Furina said, turning her head away, clearly upset despite her attempt to hide it from Tempest.
"My Lady? Did I do something wrong?"
Tempest asked her, concern evident in his voice, as he tried to understand what he might have done to upset Furina.
"No, no, nothing at all, Tempest. You did absolutely nothing wrong at all. You're perfectly fine. Don't worry about it."
Furina spoke with a hint of nonchalance in her tone, her words tinged with a subtle undercurrent of sarcasm as she pretended to reassure Tempest.
"My Lady, clearly you're speaking in a sarcastic tone, I'm not leaving until you tell me, please, tell me what's troubling you."
Tempest's voice was tinged with desperation as he tried to get to the bottom of the issue.
Furina sighed before she spoke.
"I'm not upset with you, Tempest, believe me. Part of the reason I'm here is to bid you a proper send-off. But in the coming days, or perhaps even tomorrow, you might understand the problem I'm talking about."
Furina's sarcastic demeanor faded, and her upset expression softened into a genuine smile.
"I see, no matter what problem it is, My Lady, I will deal with it. I assure you."
Tempest knelt gracefully, gently taking Furina's hand in his. With a soft, respectful kiss to her fingers, he bid her farewell, his expression a mix of sincerity and regret.
"Hmph, Au Revoir, Tempest."
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"Messenger hawk, inbound, Your Grace!"
Announced a knight from the Golden Hand, peering through his spyglass. He pointed toward the sky where the hawk was approaching the Dreadnought.
Tempest extended his arm, and the messenger hawk gracefully landed on it. With its talon, it clutched a letter tightly, which Tempest carefully took from the bird.
Tempest's opened the letter, while the messenger hawk, moved to his shoulder.
"The Fatui have arrived, Your Grace. They've brought an entire contingent of Fatui agents, and they're being led by a diplomat named Yegor Mikhailov. He's currently in discussions with Director Denis Papin of the Fontaine Research Institute."
The letter stated that was written by Falric.
"Hm."
Tempest muttered to himself, his expression darkening as he activated his Pyro Delusion. With a flick of his hand, he ignited the letter, watching it burn until all that remained was a handful of ash and smoldering dust.
"Is something wrong, Your Grace?"
Rohan said as he approached Tempest.
"Yes, the Fatui have arrived, how long until we arrive?"
"Twenty-minutes, Your Grace."
Rohan replied.
"Mhm, tell the captain of the ship, to speed up."
Tempest instructed, his tone urgent. Rohan nodded in understanding and swiftly made his way to the bridge to relay the message to the captain.
After what felt like hours, the Dreadnought finally arrived at the docks of the Fontaine Research Institute. Tempest stood at the bow of the ship, resting his hands on the metal railings as he gazed out at the Institute.
"Let's go, brother."
Tempest heard his sister's voice behind him and turned around to see her standing with Rohan and a contingent of knights from the Golden Hand.
"Let's get moving."
Tempest spoke, and everyone nodded in agreement. They disembarked the ship, making their way to the pier where Falric awaited them. His left arm had been replaced with a mechanical prosthetic, and his right eye was concealed behind an eyepatch, giving him a more formidable appearance.
"Your Grace, it's good to see you again."
Falric said, bowing his head shortly.
"As do we, captain. It seems like the replacement was a success."
Tempest said, glancing at Falric's mechanical left arm.
"Yes, an eccentric young lady named Hatsume applied it, Your Grace. Though I still prefer my original arm, this one gets the job done and provides me with enhanced strength, and I'm still able to use my Geo Vision normally."
Falric said, raising his mechanical arm with a hint of pride.
Tempest nodded, relieved to see that Falric's injuries had not burdened him in the slightest. It was clear that despite the loss of his arm and the eyepatch covering his eye, Falric had adapted well and remained as capable as ever.
"Let's get moving then, Your Grace, I'll lead you inside."
Falric spoke, and Tempest nodded in understanding. He and his group then followed Falric as he led them toward the Institute.
Tempest couldn't help but notice the numerous Clockwork Mekas around the Institute, diligently performing laborious tasks and standing guard.
"Do the people even work and live here? It feels like the Mekas own this place."
Penance said who was walking alongside Tempest.
"They do mostly the hard labor here, Penance, while the researchers do the thinking, and inventing."
Tempest replied to his sister.
"How long are we staying here?"
"A day or two, or perhaps even longer, I'll be speaking with the Director to see if they can provide us with anything that might assist us in the desert."
Tempest replied to Penance.
"Woah! Look a that brother!"
Penance pointed towards a testing ground where two Mekas were performing an elegant dance, gliding smoothly across the polished surface. The sight was mesmerizing, with their synchronized movements creating a stunning display of grace and precision.
The entire group came to a halt, captivated by the mesmerizing performance of the Mekas.
"Your Grace!"
"Hm?"
Tempest glanced to his side and noticed an elderly man approaching, accompanied by what appeared to be his assistant. The elderly man was dressed in formal attire that suggested his significant role within the Institute.
"It's a great honor to have you visit the Fontaine Research Institute."
The elderly man said with a voice that carried the weight of many years of experience.
"I am Senior Technician Bossuet, and this is my assistant, Maillardet. I'm pleased to see that my greatest invention has captured your interest."
Bossuet's gaze then shifted back to the dancing Mekas, a proud smile touching his lips.
"It's an honor to be here as well, sir, what do you call this great invention?"
Tempest asked Bossuet.
"That's the Icewind Suite, the very pinnacle of Fontaine's artistry and the beauty it embodies."
Bossuet said, his voice rich with pride and a twinkle in his eye.
"Next month, I'll be stationing them in Erinnyes, near the Opera Epiclese, where their mesmerizing dance will continue to enchant and captivate the citizens for years to come."
His smile widened as he spoke, his gaze lingering on the graceful movements of the Mekas.
"Hmph, they seem more suited for combat, don't you think, Your Grace?"
Maillardet interjected, his tone carrying a hint of skepticism.
"While they do display a certain grace, their true potential might be realized in more practical, tactical applications rather than mere entertainment."
His gaze shifted from the Mekas to Tempest, a thoughtful frown on his face.
"I respectfully disagree."
Tempest replied, his tone firm yet respectful.
"These types of inventions are what make Fontaine truly unique compared to other nations. It's not just about functionality, it's also about celebrating our creativity and artistry. The beauty and innovation of such creations set us apart and contribute to our nation's identity."
He then turned his attention back to Bossuet, his expression unreadable and emotionless.
"Sir Bossuet, you have truly captured that essence and created something truly astonishing, I eagerly anticipate seeing it showcased near the Opera Epiclese. I'm confident that even Lady Furina will be captivated by such an impressive display. Your work embodies the unique spirit and creativity of Fontaine, and it's bound to leave a lasting impression on all who witness it."
Tempest said, his admiration evident.
"Really? Thank you for your kind words, Your Grace. To hear such praise from you is something I will cherish to the grave. Did you hear that, Maillardet? The Duke himself has spoken, and he even wagers that Lady Furina will be captivated by our work. This endorsement means more than I can express."
Bossuet said, his voice filled with genuine gratitude, and Maillardet sighed in disappointment.
*Flash!*
"Hm? Penance? I didn't knew you bring a kamera."
Tempest turned to Penance, who was taking pictures of the Icewind Suite.
"Uncle bought it for me, and told me to take some pictures to show Mother, once we return."
Penance responded with a smile as she continued snapping pictures of the Icewind Suite. Tempest, pleased with her enthusiasm, turned back to Bossuet and extended his hand for a handshake.
"It's been a pleasure discussing your remarkable work, Sir Bossuet. I look forward to seeing the Icewind Suite's future performances."
Bossuet smiled and shook Tempest's hand.
"The pleasures all mine, Your Grace."
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Shortly thereafter, Tempest and his group made their way toward the gathering hall. As they walked, the bustling activity of the Fontaine Research Institute seemed to pulse around them, with technicians and researchers scurrying about, each absorbed in their own tasks.
"This is preposterous, Director! These papers here, clearly state that the Ghost Program belongs to us!"
"I told you, Yegor, that document was signed by the previous Duke. If you want access to the Ghost Program, you'll have to negotiate with Tempest Proudmoore himself."
Director Denis Papin said with a firm tone.
In the gathering hall were Yegor Mikhailov and his Fatui agents, engaged in an attempt to acquire the Ghost Program from the Fontaine Research Institute. However, with Mengsk Proudmoore deceased, all his belongings, including the rights to the Ghost Program, now belong to Tempest Proudmoore by right of succession. If Yegor wishes to obtain the Ghost Program, he will need Tempest to sign the necessary papers.
"Speaking of Tempest Proudmoore, here he is."
Denis said, turning his head toward the entrance as Tempest and his group walked into the gathering hall.
"I decline, the Ghost Program, rightfully belongs to Fontaine."
stone?
(Chapter 53 Fontaine Research Institute II)
In the gathering hall of the Fontaine Research Institute, a prominent picture frame in the center honored the Father and founder of the Fontaine Research Institute, Alain Guillotin. The hall was surrounded by assault Mekas to prevent any disorder, and at the heart of the assembly stood two opposing groups: Tempest and his knights on one side, and Yegor with his Fatui agents on the other. In the middle of these two groups was Director Denis Papin, overseeing the tense standoff.
"Comrade Tempest! What a pleasure it is to see you again!"
Yegor's demeanor shifted instantly upon Tempest's entrance, his earlier frustration with Denis about the Ghost Program seemingly forgotten. He greeted Tempest with the warmth and familiarity one might reserve for an old friend as if their previous tensions had never occurred.
"Yes, it's great to see you as well, comrade Yegor..."
Tempest responded, his voice polite but his expression steadfastly emotionless and unreadable.
"I must say, it is an honor to meet you for the second time rather than the first. I can truly feel the aura you emanate, as blazing as the sun. It's an extraordinary privilege to encounter a vessel of Ra's power in my lifetime. I would wager that her majesty, the Tsaritsa herself would be thrilled to make your acquaintance."
Yegor said to Tempest, his voice rich with admiration and an air of flattery.
"I am honored, if she wants to meet me, she'll have to come to me herself. I hate the cold..."
Tempest replied, his tone cool yet polite, hinting at his preference for warmer climates.
"Haha, everyone feels that way at first, comrade, but once you meet her face to face, you'll experience the true presence of a graceful and formidable Archon. When you stand before her, Tempest, you'll find yourself compelled to kneel and-"
"Really now? Let me remind you, Yegor, I serve only two gods: one is my benefactor, and the other is the reason I am still breathing and standing, whom I have sworn to serve for life. The other six are mere strangers to me. You suggest I will kneel? You might find me a martyr before I ever bow to your god."
Tempest's voice was steely, his tone leaving no room for misinterpretation. His words clearly struck a nerve, as Yegor and his agents visibly bristled with offense.
"Careful now, Tempest Proudmoore. You may wield the power of the sun, but remember, Her Majesty commands servants whose abilities are beyond your comprehension. It would be unwise to underestimate the forces that stand with her."
Yegor's eyes gleamed with a mix of warning and challenge, making it clear that he held a deep respect for the Tsarista's might and influence.
'Send them all...'
Tempest thought to himself, the words almost escaping his throat. He considered challenging Yegor's warning, yet he remained silent, understanding that provoking a conflict between their nations was a risk far too great.
"Haha, let's just put this behind us, shall we, comrade?"
Yegor's expression shifted from one of offense to a mask of delight, his smile widening as if the earlier tension had never occurred.
"Indeed, let's get straight to the point, Yegor. What is it that you want?"
Tempest said, his tone steady and his gaze unwavering.
"What we seek is straightforward, comrade. We simply wish to obtain the Ghost Program. Your Father had agreed to our terms. Snezhnaya would supply House Proudmoore with exclusive resources found only in Snezhnaya. However, with his treachery now revealed, we regret making that arrangement with him. I implore you, as you are a hero to Fontaine, to allow me to offer you an even better deal."
Yegor said to Tempest, his tone smooth and persuasive.
"Really? I was under the impression that your dealings with my Father. Wasn't it the battery of indemnitium that we discussed? Did I mishear something back then?"
Tempest asked Yegor, his tone laced with suspicion and curiosity.
Yegor sighed before he spoke.
"That turned out to be a dud. It seems that indemnitium only works in Fontaine, where it is powered by the court. The moment it left Fontaine's borders, its lifespan began depleting rapidly."
"Right..."
Tempest replied not convinced if this indemnitium battery even existed in the first place.
"Now, let's get straight to the point. If you agree to give us the Ghost Program, we will not only supply House Proudmoore with resources unique to Snezhnaya, but we will also provide you with an array of advanced Snezhnayan ships. These ships are far superior, and we will even include the blueprints to build them. The power they offer is unparalleled, and with them, you could dominate the seas. Just sign this document, comrade, and both our nations will thrive together."
Yegor said, extending the document toward Tempest.
Tempest took the document from Yegor, his gaze scanning the document with a careful, analytical eye. After a moment of scrutiny, he turned back to Yegor, his expression remaining unreadable and devoid of any emotion.
"Do I look like I need your power?"
Tempest replied coldly. With a decisive motion, he activated his Pyro Delusion, setting the document ablaze. The papers quickly turned to ash, drifting away in a faint, smoky haze.
"You insolent blyat!"
Tempest's defiant action ignited Yegor's fury. With a swift motion, Yegor drew his sacrificial knife, signaling his agents to prepare for combat. Tempest's knights immediately unsheathed their swords, ready for battle. At the same time, Penance summoned a towering Hydro golem, its presence adding to the escalating tension in the gathering hall.
"Drop your weapons immediately! There will be no blood spilled on Alain's legacy!"
Denis shouted with authority, his voice echoing through the hall. As he spoke, the assault Mekas surrounding the room were activated, their sensors detecting the rising threat and preparing for potential conflict
"Yegor! The Duke has spoken, take your contingents and leave this Institute immediately! Or else!"
Denis commanded sternly. As he spoke, all the assault Mekas aimed their miniguns and extended their batons, their menacing forms poised to enforce the order. Yegor glanced around, seeing the intimidating array of weapons now trained on his group, and weighed his options.
"You will regret this, Tempest Proudmoore."
Yegor said, his voice laced with menace.
"Know that your actions here today will be remembered by Snezhnaya for a long time. This is far from over..."
With a final, scornful look, Yegor gestured for his agents to lower their weapons, signaling a grudging retreat.
"I think not... You can have this back."
Tempest said coldly, flicking the Cryo Delusion, once belonging to his Father, toward Yegor. The object spun through the air with precision, and Yegor caught it effortlessly, his eyes narrowing as he examined it.
"Hmph."
Yegor muttered to himself, his expression a mix of frustration and resentment. He and his contingent swiftly departed from the gathering hall.
"Uwahh... That was scary..."
Penance exhaled deeply as she placed her hands on her knees, the tension evident in her posture. The Hydro golem, sensing that the immediate threat had passed, dissolved back into the ambient Hydro energy. Meanwhile, the knights, having sheathed their swords, relaxed their stances as Yegor and his contingent exited the gathering hall. The atmosphere, once charged with imminent conflict, slowly returned to a tense calm.
"You alright?"
Tempest asked his sister, concern evident in his tone.
"Mhm... Just let me take a breather, brother."
Penance said, her voice tinged with relief. Tempest nodded in understanding and gently patted her head, offering a reassuring gesture.
"That was awesome, Your Grace. The way you burned that paper was nothing short of defiant.
Rohan said, admiration clear in his voice.
"Can agree. It was a bold move and showed your strength of character. Quite impressive, Your Grace."
Falric said, nodding his head with an approving smile.
"Hmph, we don't need allies from people known to backstab others."
"Indeed, Your Grace, this is precisely the outcome I anticipated. It's truly a pleasure to have you here at the Fontaine Research Institute."
Denis Papin said to Tempest as he approached his group, extending his hand for a handshake.
"Your presence has been invaluable, and I look forward to our continued collaboration."
"As do I, Director."
Tempest replied to him and accepted his handshake.
"Let's not waste any more time, Your Grace. Please, come with me. I'll show you the Ghost Program in detail. It's an impressive piece of technology, and I'm eager for you to see it firsthand.
Denis said, gesturing for Tempest and his group to follow him.
"Brother?"
Penance called out to Tempest.
"Yes? sister?"
"Can I go explore the Institute? I want to see those dancing Mekas again."
Penance asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Tempest paused for a moment, considering her request carefully. After a brief silence, he nodded, giving her his answer.
"Very well, change of plans."
Tempest announced, his tone decisive.
"Rohan, you'll accompany Penance. Make sure she stays safe and out of trouble. Falric, you and the knights inquire with the researchers about their current projects. See if any of their inventions could be of use to us in the desert, and if possible, request permission to borrow them."
With that, Tempest gave a nod of approval to Penance before turning his attention back to Denis.
"Is that allowed? Director?"
"Of course, Your Grace. Many of the researchers here are eager to make a name for themselves. They'll be more than happy to oblige and let you borrow some of their inventions."
Denis replied with a confident smile, pleased to accommodate Tempest's request. Tempest nodded in response, then turned back to his group.
"We'll meet back here, in two hours."
Tempest instructed, his tone firm. The group nodded in agreement before going their separate ways to carry out their tasks.
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As they walked through the labyrinthine halls of the Fontaine Research Institute, Denis glanced at Tempest, his tone carrying a hint of curiosity and respect.
First and foremost, Your Grace, what is your current understanding of the Ghost Program?"
Denis inquired, his steps slowing slightly as they approached the room where the Ghost Program was kept, eager to gauge Tempest's knowledge before unveiling the Institute's prized innovation.
"From what I've gathered, the Ghost Program is considered the Institute's pinnacle achievement. It's a suit designed to render its wearer invisible to the human eye. The core technology behind it involves Primal Constructs, which are native to Sumeru. I interrogated a Ghost operative named Stone and learned that only those with exceptional mental fortitude can safely use the suit. The strain of becoming invisible can be quite taxing on the mind."
Tempest explained to Denis.
"Indeed, Your Grace."
Denis affirmed as he opened the door to the room housing the Ghost Program.
"Reverse engineering the Primal Constructs was no small feat. The technology is ancient and complex, but thanks to the relentless efforts of our top researchers, we've managed to create something truly remarkable."
Denis replied. Inside, the space was bustling with activity. Numerous researchers were engrossed in their work, surrounded by Primal Constructs in stasis along the walls. In the center of the room stood the centerpiece of their efforts, the Ghost suit.
"This is the last suit we have, Your Grace. Your Father took everything we had, but what he acquired was merely a prototype, far from complete. The suit still has numerous issues, and our supply of Primal Constructs has been significantly depleted. The Constructs currently in stasis have been inactive for quite some time."
Denis said as he led Tempest into the room.
"I suppose this is where I come in."
Tempest tells Denis, his eyes never leaving the Ghost suit.
"Yes, by your Father's actions, the Ghost Program rightfully belongs to you. However, to perfect it, we need something more substantial. In Sumeru, there exists a Warden-class Primal Construct known as the Algorithm of Semi-Intransient Matrix of Overseer Network, quite a mouthful, I know. This advanced Construct, identified by the Sumeru Akademiya, could be crucial for enhancing the Ghost Program."
Denis explained to Tempest, as he gave him a photograph of the massive Primal Construct.
"I see, so, you're asking me to retrieve this massive Primal Construct and bring it back to Fontaine?"
Tempest said, raising an eyebrow.
"Unfortunately yes, Your Grace, If possible, we would also appreciate it if you could retrieve some standard Primal Constructs along with the Warden-class one. They would greatly assist in our efforts to perfect the Ghost Program."
Denis replied with a sigh.
"Very well, now then, tell me, where do I find these Primal Constructs."
"They are relatively common in the ruins of Deshret's ancient civilization. However, locating the Warden-class Primal Construct will be more challenging. You may need to seek out the Eremites for assistance, as they are adept at navigating the vast desert and could prove invaluable in your search for this rare and powerful construct."
Denis explained.
"I see, now then, explain to me what are the weaknesses of the Ghost suit."
"I'm glad you asked, Your Grace."
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Denis guided Tempest to a vacant testing ground. As they approached, researchers carefully placed the Ghost suit down on one side, ensuring it was secure. Tempest's attention was drawn to the distance, where he noticed three steel boxes mounted on wheels, each equipped with a cannon on top. The sight piqued his curiosity.
"What are those?"
Tempest asked Denis.
"Ah, those contraptions are just Hatsume's latest eccentric inventions. She's undoubtedly brilliant, but she does have a few screws loose. Her innovative ideas are impressive, though they often defy conventional thinking."
Denis explained with a chuckle.
Suddenly, the hatch on top of one of the steel boxes popped open. A young woman with vibrant pink hair and goggles perched atop her forehead emerged. Her face was smudged with grime from her work, and an Electro Vision was fastened to her belt. On her back, she carried a small cannon of some sort. Upon spotting Denis and Tempest, her face lit up with excitement and recognition.
"Ah! It's the Duke!"
Hatsume exclaimed with delight. She quickly got out of the hatch and dashed towards Tempest and Denis, her excitement palpable.
"Hatsume! Reporting for duty! Your Grace! Would you like to see one of my babies in action?! You want to, don't you? Right? Right?!"
stones?
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