บท 20: Mechanical Golden Knight
The Kingdom of Verradion, a sprawling realm marked by its social hierarchies and fiercely independent noble families, was ruled by a monarchy at the peak of its system. Nobles like the Umbracrest family occupied the lowest rung of the aristocracy, holding dominion over modest territories. The Barony of Umbracrest, located in the kingdom's southwestern frontier, bordered untamed lands filled with danger and opportunity.
The barony's strategic position as a buffer zone against outside threats gave it some importance, but it lacked wealth or military might compared to the duchies and marquisates further inland. For Edwin, however, the limitations of his family's standing mattered little. His goals transcended the of Verradion Deep in his hidden workshop, Edwin stood before the towering frame of his greatest creation yet—the Mechanical Gold Knight. With its pristine white armor accented with intricate gold details, it exuded an aura of majesty and invincibility. Every plate of armor had been crafted with care, each rune carved with precision.
"AI," Edwin called, "synchronize the core and run a diagnostic."
The AI replied smoothly, "Synchronization complete. All systems functioning within optimal parameters. Combat strength estimated at peak gold rank. The energy core will sustain maximum output for 48 hours of continuous operation."
Edwin nodded, satisfied. His gaze fell upon the final addition to the knight: a massive greatsword. Forged from etherium steel, a rare material found only in the mines of Verradion's northern reaches, the blade shimmered with a faint, otherworldly glow. Runic engravings along its surface ensured that every swing would carry devastating force, capable of shattering even enchanted armor.
With a final adjustment, Edwin activated the gold knight. The machine moved, its steps deliberate and powerful. It raised the greatsword in a salute before standing at attention, awaiting further orders.
Edwin allowed himself a rare moment of pride. "Perfect. Now, onto the silver knights."
The first batch of 200 Mechanical Silver Knights had been completed earlier that day. Edwin decided it was time to refine their presentation. These were not mere war machines—they would symbolize the pinnacle of craftsmanship and power.
He ordered their armor to be painted in a flawless white, with subtle gold accents to create a sense of divine authority. The designs were meticulous, covering every inch of their bodies, leaving no visible gaps. Their helmets bore intricate designs, complete with flowing crests that gave them an imposing presence.
Additionally, Edwin provided each knight with a white cloak lined with gold trim. The cloaks were designed to billow dramatically, adding a sense of movement and grandeur to their otherwise mechanical precision. When fully equipped, the silver knights looked more like holy knights from a legendary empire than soulless machines.
Edwin crafted personal greatswords for each silver knight, similar in design to the gold knight's weapon but smaller and less intricate. Despite this, the swords were still masterpieces, capable of cleaving through ranks of enemies with ease.
As the sun began to set, Edwin ordered the silver knights into formation. They moved in perfect synchronization, their cloaks fluttering slightly as they took their positions. The sight of 200 fully armored knights standing in disciplined rows within the dimly lit workshop was awe-inspiring.
Edwin stepped back, studying his creation. Anyone who saw this formation would believe they were facing the elite guard of a mighty empire, not mechanical constructs hidden in a baron's modest estate.
"AI," Edwin said, his tone calm, "log today's completion and prepare for mass operational testing tomorrow."
"Understood, Master Edwin," the AI responded.
As Edwin admired his army, a knock sounded at the door of the workshop. He frowned. No one dared to interrupt him unless it was urgent.
talk Edwin called.
A steward entered, bowing deeply. "Young Master, urgent news has arrived from the reconnaissance party sent to investigate the baron's whereabouts."
Edwin's expression hardened. "Speak."
The steward hesitated before continuing. "It is confirmed, my lord. Baron Caine, Sir Cedric, Lady Eleanor, and their escort were ambushed by the notorious Black Talon Brigade. None survived."
The words hung heavily in the air. Edwin's mind raced as he processed the implications. The Black Talon Brigade, a merciless band of raiders operating beyond Verradion's borders, had long plagued the kingdom's outlying regions. For them to strike so deep within the kingdom's territory was unprecedented.
"Details," Edwin demanded.
The steward continued, "The brigade's numbers were overwhelming, and their leader, the infamous Razor Gale, was said to be personally involved. The knights dispatched to retrieve the baron's party found only ruins and ashes."
Edwin dismissed the steward and leaned against his desk, his mind turning over the situation. His father's death, while tragic, presented an opportunity to reshape the future. The baron's absence left a power vacuum in Umbracrest, one that Edwin could use to solidify his position.
"AI," Edwin said, breaking the silence. "Compile everything we know about the Black Talon Brigade. Their tactics, their hideouts, their leadership
"Understood, Master Edwin. Data retrieval in progress," the AI replied.
Edwin turned to his gold knight, its imposing frame standing silently in the corner of the workshop. "If they believe they can act without consequences they are mistaken
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