Chapter 406: Project Commission
After confirming the status of the production line and the finalization of the design, Ryo, accompanied by Marcus Thorne, headed to the base's live-fire testing ground.
Dust billowed within the testing ground, and the roar of engines and the sound of weapons test-firing were incessant.
Twelve soldiers clad in standard Stormtrooper carapace armor were conducting adaptive training beside three "Iron Guard" prototypes respectively.
Their movements were capable and precise, clearly all elites under the command of Inquisitor Kailas Walker.
Ryo and Marcus stood on the elevated observation platform, silently watching the scene below.
A standard-operation version "Iron Guard," under the control of a soldier, was performing basic tactical maneuvers and weapon system switching. Its movements were slightly unpolished but strictly followed protocol.
Another mech, reinforced with close-combat configurations, was practicing short-range assaults and the use of its power fist in a simulated environment.
"These are the first batch of trainees dispatched by Inquisitor Walker," Marcus explained from the side. "They have completed their basic theoretical studies and simulation pod training, and are currently undergoing adaptive live-machine operation. According to the plan, after they fully master the standard operation mode, they will undergo neural implant modification in preparation for receiving the neural-connection models later."
Ryo's optical lenses locked onto the neural-connection prototype that was performing complex evasive maneuvers.
Compared to the standard version, its movements were much more fluid, and the range of motion of its joints was greater, indicating a higher upper limit for control.
A Tech-Priest was connected to the back of the mech via a data cable, monitoring the feedback data from the Machine Spirit in real time.
"How is the adaptive adjustment of the Machine Spirit progressing?" Ryo asked.
"Progress is meeting expectations, Magos." Marcus brought up the relevant data streams. "We are currently fine-tuning the response logic of the Machine Spirit based on the preset neural signal patterns of the pilots, in order to reduce the risk of rejection reactions during the initial connection phase. Once the pilots complete their modifications, preliminary synchronization testing can begin."
At this time, a Stormtrooper squad leader finished his training, jogged to the bottom of the observation platform, and offered a standard military salute to Ryo and Marcus.
His visor was removed, revealing a resolute face bearing a scar, his gaze sharp.
"Lord Forge Magos. I am the Stormtrooper squad leader." His voice was loud, carrying the directness of a soldier. "Gratitude to you and Nexum for the equipment provided. This machine... possesses immense potential."
Ryo nodded slightly. "What are the main obstacles encountered during training?"
"Under standard operation mode, the firepower and protection far exceed any individual heavy weapon we have used in the past, but there is still a slight delay in the mech's response, especially during turns in complex terrain and rapid target switching." The squad leader answered without hesitation. "We expect the neural connection to solve this problem. The soldiers are prepared to undergo the modification. In order to gain greater strength to purify the Emperor's enemies, the necessary price is acceptable."
His words were filled with the determination unique to Stormtroopers and a pure pursuit of efficiency.
Ryo did not express his stance on this, merely recording the relevant feedback.
He turned to Marcus: "The surgical arrangements for the neural implants and the subsequent synchronized training procedures must strictly follow safety protocols. I require detailed reports for every stage."
"Preparations are complete. The surgeries will take place in three days at the base's medical center. They will be performed by a Magos Biologis specializing in neurology," Marcus confirmed.
Ryo took a final look at those Stormtroopers in the training ground who were about to become one with steel and Machine Spirits.
The deep involvement of the Inquisition meant that the "Iron Guard" project would soon obtain invaluable combat data from the most brutal frontlines.
He tacitly approved of all these arrangements.
After inspecting the testing ground, Ryo and Marcus Thorne returned together to the project center.
Inside the main control room, filled with the hum of data streams, Ryo presented a new request to the Forge Magos.
"Magos Thorne, the 'Iron Guard' project, especially the neural-connection model, has proven its battlefield value," Ryo's synthesized voice stated steadily. "I need to equip my direct-subordinate Skitarii with this gear."
He brought up the data streams detailing the defense organization of the Death World base and the projected escort requirements for dimensional exploration.
"For the first batch, I require at least fifty neural-connection Iron Guards, along with the corresponding maintenance equipment and spare parts."
Marcus Thorne's mechanical augmetic eye flickered rapidly, conducting an instantaneous calculation of resources and production lines.
Fifty neural-connection models were not a small number. The core cultivation of their Machine Spirits and the synchronized calibration of the neural interfaces required time and precise craftsmanship.
"Fifty neural-connection models... this will require adjusting the priorities of some current production lines," Marcus did not directly refuse, but stated the objective facts. "The core bottleneck lies in the adaptation and implantation of qualified Machine Spirits. However, since the project has gained your approval and is officially finalized, expanding production capacity is an inevitable step. I will personally coordinate the resources."
He pulled up the production schedule and conducted a rapid deduction.
"The first batch of ten units can be delivered within fifteen standard days. The subsequent forty units are expected to complete production and basic calibration within two months, and will be shipped to your designated location in batches."
"Acceptable." Ryo accepted this timeline. "Prioritize ensuring the stability of the Machine Spirits and the safety of the neural interfaces. This batch of equipment will be used for the defense of critical areas and as escorts for high-priority exploration missions; reliability is the primary metric."
"Following your directives." Marcus Thorne nodded, and immediately began issuing preliminary commands through the data links, mobilizing the relevant materials and Tech-Priest manpower. "They will be completed under my personal supervision to ensure they meet your requirements."
Ryo officially logged this equipment requisition into the project files and set up encrypted clearance.
Outfitting his Skitarii with the more powerful Iron Guards would directly elevate the defensive strength of the Death World base and his core escort capabilities during future dimensional explorations.
This was a necessary decision made based on the current situation and the project's maturity level.
The communication connected, and the holographic projection of Alvaro Vess emerged.
He appeared in the guise of an old man wearing plain scholar's robes. His hair and beard were silvery-white, and the wrinkles on his face recorded the long years, carrying a classical scholarly demeanor.
Outwardly, no conspicuous traces of mechanical modification could be seen. Were it not for those overly clear eyes lacking the turbidity of age, and the overly even, healthy luster faintly showing beneath his skin, one would almost think he was a well-maintained elder.
Ryo knew the truth of this body.
This Alvaro Vess was a figure who had experienced the turbulent era before the Emperor launched the Great Crusade; his age exceeded seven standard centuries.
His seemingly natural body was essentially the product of countless precise tissue replacements and systemic reinforcements—a highly bionic vessel with performance far exceeding that of an ordinary human.
At this moment, the face of this ancient one's holographic projection carried a trace of obvious surprise and respect.
(End of Chapter)