Holmcross Project (Year 1)

Chapter 9: Blade

Springfield stepped out of a room deep in the off-limits research sector of an ARMs development facility, holding his head. A few scientists came over, concerned, but he waved them off. "I'm fine. I'll get used to it. It's quite the willful one."

"Are you sure you're alright? Should we get Dr. Sylvestre?" One of the scientists asked.

"No, no. I'll be fine." Springfield said with a reassuring smile. The scientists looked doubtful, but stepped away to go back to work. Springfield sighed and looked back towards the room before walking off to another room and accessing a console. Sitting down in a chair, he began to type on a keyboard, the following appearing on-screen:

[H-05: Springfield Progress Report 006 - The GB Project is responding to me, but negotiating cooperation with it has proven difficult. I will persevere, however, and gain this new ARM's trust. Although, in my personal experience, this ARM has the worst attitude I have ever come across in ARMs. I will make note of any further progress with the ARM. H-05: Springfield out.]

Nodding, he sent it to a database and then stood up, opening the door and stopping short in surprise as he saw Vassim in front of him. "Doctor." He started to salute, but stopped. "Forgive me, I keep forgetting you're not military." He smiled apologetically. "I just sent in my latest progress report. Did you need anything?"

"Nor am I a doctor. Just a humble engineer." Vassim corrected with a smile. "I actually came to see how you were holding up. I've received your reports, and they're certainly insightful. But you look exhausted."

"I'm alright, Do-Vassim." Springfield assured him. "I just need some rest. It's always a challenge, gaining the trust of an ARM, but it's always worth it." He smiled and nodded. "I'll manage it soon, don't worry. Just give us time to sort things out between us."

Vassim was taken aback. "I've heard people describe a special bond with their ARMs, but I've never heard it described like a couple before. Is this normal for you? Do you get that way with all ARMs?"

Springfield nodded. "All of us do, but I seem to really make connections on the personality level." He said softly. "I've always seen the ARMs as people, and have had a few animated conversations with some of them. The personalities differ based on what they've been around, just like people do, and when they are hurt you can really feel it."

Some of the scientists had paused in their work to listen, and were awed at how peaceful Springfield looked as he spoke about weapons of mass destruction. It was...a little creepy, but they could see why he in particular was sent to work on this project.

"...And what does this machine have to say?" Vassim asked after a long pause.

"That it's confused about itself and doesn't even trust itself, so why should it trust me?" Springfield shrugged helplessly and shook his head. "The magic isn't connecting well with the machine part of the ARM, and I'm also having some difficulties with it. It might lead to complications in the future."

A light seemed to come on in Vassim's head. "It doesn't like the magic, you say? That's... interesting. I admit basing it off of ARM technology does make it a little different from our usual magic-induced tech." He was speaking of the primary energy source of the Elw civilization. "And it's the first time anyone has attempted to make an ARM from Living Metal."

Springfield nodded. "Yes. It's really making things difficult, but I feel confident that the ARM and I will pull through it together." He smiled. "Let's just try not to overload us all at once, okay? A little bit at a time should do. Machines do need time to process things, after all."

"Well, we'll tweak the settings a little for the next few days and see if we can't make it any easier for you two." Vassim suggested. "For now, why don't you take the rest of the day off. Mariel might like some help in the garden, if you're interested. A little time working the earth can really clear your head, she says."