(Chapter 105 Preparations For War)
"Isn't that just the core of a Primal Construct?"
"Ah, a keen eye as always, Tempest!"
Faruzan replied with a grin.
"Yes, this core was from a Primal Construct, but I've repurposed it into something entirely different! With my ingenuity and expertise, I've transformed this potent core into a communication device far beyond its original design!"
She tapped the prism lightly, and instantly, a translucent screen appeared, hovering in the air. Strange symbols, resembling an ancient script, flickered on the display.
Tempest raised an eyebrow.
"That looks like the ancient language of the desert people. How is this different?"
Faruzan chuckled, clearly excited to explain.
"It may look like the old script now, but I've been hard at work deciphering the language from A to Z! And not only that, I've managed to create a more simplified, universal system of communication. Let me demonstrate."
With a swift motion, she tossed another prism toward Tempest. He caught it effortlessly, his reflexes razor-sharp.
As Tempest inspected the prism in his hands, the same screen materialized before him.
"Sending message now."
Faruzan said confidently, and a few seconds later, the screen in Tempest's prism blinked to life.
Dots and dashes appeared on the screen, forming a message:
".... . .-.. .-.. --- -.-.--"
Tempest furrowed his brow.
"What is this supposed to mean?"
Faruzan beamed, proud of her creation.
"It says 'HELLO!' You see, unfortunately, the language we use can't be easily converted into these ancient devices. So, I developed a simplified system using the basic structures of the ancient symbols. I call it... Morse code."
Tempest tilted his head slightly, intrigued.
"Morse code?"
"Exactly! It's a remarkable system that uses dots and dashes to represent different letters of the alphabet. It's efficient, easy to use, and perfect for long-distance communication, especially in dire situations. Just imagine, sending important messages in mere seconds, even from one end of the world to the other. And the best part? It's less vulnerable to being intercepted or misunderstood due to its reliance on audio and visual signals."
Faruzan explained with enthusiasm, her hands moving as if she was already envisioning the system in full use.
Tempest, still holding the prism, contemplated the implications.
"So, with this system, you're saying I could send messages to anyone with one of these prisms?"
Faruzan nodded.
"That's right! And not just that, it can function in nearly any environment. No need for bulky equipment or complicated mechanisms. These prisms can be carried easily and used discreetly. It's perfect for covert operations, or in your case, communicating with your fleet in situations where speed and security are paramount."
Tempest tapped the prism again, the dots and dashes vanishing as the screen blinked off.
"I must admit, Faruzan, this could be incredibly useful for the Golden Armada. I'll have to test this out with my men."
Faruzan puffed out her chest proudly.
"I knew you'd see the potential, Tempest! Just imagine, one day, everyone could be using this system. Entire nations connected by a simple tap of a prism."
Nahida, who had been quietly observing the exchange, smiled warmly.
"It's a fascinating concept, Faruzan. Communication has always been a powerful tool in keeping people united, especially in difficult times. Your innovation could help maintain peace and order."
Faruzan nodded vigorously.
"Exactly, Little Miss Archon! This device is more than just for warfare. Imagine the scholars in Sumeru, the diplomats in Fontaine, all using this to share knowledge, ideas, and even peace treaties! This could be the next step in evolving communication across Teyvat."
Tempest couldn't help but smile at Faruzan's boundless energy.
"I'm impressed, Faruzan. I'll definitely put this to the test. And as for the name... Morse code, was it? It has a nice ring to it."
Faruzan smirked.
"Of course it does! Just remember who invented it when it becomes the standard everywhere."
Tempest chuckled softly.
"Don't worry, I'll make sure everyone knows."
'This is a huge advantage... The standard for everywhere, huh?'
Tempest mused silently, his expression thoughtful.
'No... These devices will be exclusive to Fontaine. I can't risk other nations getting their hands on such powerful technology.'
With a calculated tone, he spoke up, breaking his train of thought.
"Keep this project a secret for now. I don't want this technology falling into the wrong hands or spreading too soon. Who else knows about this?"
Faruzan raised an eyebrow but answered without hesitation.
"Hmm? Oh, just me, Hatsume, and you two."
She gestured toward Tempest and Nahida.
"I haven't shared it with anyone else yet."
Tempest nodded, satisfied with her answer.
"Good. It needs to stay that way for the time being. We can't afford leaks or premature exposure of such a significant advantage. Fontaine must have complete control over this, at least until we understand its full potential."
Faruzan tilted her head slightly, a mischievous glint in her eye.
"I thought you'd say that, Tempest. Always the strategist. But rest assured, I've been keeping this project under wraps. Even Hatsume, with all her chatter, knows better than to blab about this one."
Hatsume, still tinkering in the background, caught that last part and chimed in with a grin.
"Hey! I know when to keep my mouth shut! Well... most of the time."
Tempest shot her a glance, a slight smirk tugging at his lips.
"I certainly hope so. We're playing with something far bigger than just machines now."
Nahida looked up at him, sensing the weight behind his words.
"Tempest, I know you want to protect Fontaine, but don't forget the potential this has to bring people together. Sometimes, keeping things too close to the chest can lead to unintended consequences."
Tempest glanced at her but didn't respond immediately. Instead, he turned the prism in his hand thoughtfully, his mind already calculating the possible uses, the dangers, and the opportunities. He couldn't ignore Nahida's wisdom, but he had to put Fontaine first.
"This is about more than communication, Young Pasha."
He said quietly, his gaze serious.
"It's about control, influence, and power. And right now, I intend to make sure Fontaine has the upper hand in this new era."
Faruzan grinned.
"Sounds like you're ready to change the world, Tempest. Just remember, with great power-"
"Comes great responsibility."
Tempest finished for her, though his tone was more pragmatic than idealistic.
"Exactly!"
Faruzan chuckled.
"But hey, we're all in this together, right? Fontaine's rise could mean a better future for everyone... as long as we don't repeat the mistakes of the past."
Tempest let her words hang in the air for a moment, nodding slightly.
"Let's hope it doesn't come to that."
"Hey, you old hag! I fixed your coffee machine."
Hatsume announced proudly as she strutted out of the laboratory, balancing a tray with three steaming cups of coffee. The rich aroma filled the room as she approached, a satisfied grin plastered on her face.
Faruzan raised an eyebrow at the nickname, her irritation already bubbling up.
"For the last time, you cheeky brat, stop calling me an old hag! I'll have you know that-"
"Yeah, yeah, save the lecture for later."
Hatsume interrupted with a dismissive wave of her hand.
"Just drink your coffee before it gets cold."
Faruzan huffed, snatching a cup from the tray with a grumble.
"You're lucky this coffee's decent. Otherwise, I'd have more than a few words for you!"
As Faruzan blew on her coffee, Hatsume offered the other cup to Tempest with a wink.
"Here, chief, one cup of caffeine-fueled brilliance for the man with the plans."
Tempest accepted the coffee with a nod, though his focus remained on the deeper matters at hand. He glanced at Nahida, noticing she hadn't taken a cup.
"Would you like something else, Young Pasha?"
Nahida smiled warmly, shaking her head.
"No, thank you. My vessel can't consume food or drink, but I appreciate the offer."
Hatsume scratched her head, slightly embarrassed.
"Oh, right... I keep forgetting about that. Well, more coffee for us, I guess."
Faruzan, now sipping her coffee, chimed in with a smirk.
"You should be more considerate, Hatsume. everyone can indulge in your addiction to caffeine."
"Addiction?!"
Hatsume shot back, her eyes narrowing.
"I don't need coffee, I just appreciate it! There's a difference, you know! Unlike you!"
Faruzan chuckled, enjoying riling her up.
"Oh, sure. I suppose your constant tinkering at 3 a.m. has nothing to do with the six cups you drink daily?"
"Six cups?!"
Hatsume's face turned red.
"I do not drink six cups! Maybe five on a rough day, but-"
"See? Addict."
Faruzan teased, taking another sip of her coffee with a victorious smile.
Tempest chuckled lightly, shaking his head as the two women continued their banter. Despite their bickering, there was a sense of camaraderie between them that was oddly comforting.
As he took a sip from his own cup, the warm bitterness of the coffee gave him a brief moment of respite from the heavy thoughts on his mind. The future of Fontaine, the responsibility he carried, and the power of technology and the ambitions of Faruzan and Hatsume had created, all weighed on him. But in that moment, he found a rare sense of normalcy, surrounded by friends, even if they were an eccentric inventor and a bickering scholar.
"At least things aren't dull around here."
Tempest muttered to himself, a small smile tugging at his lips.
"Well, I'll leave you two to it, then."
Tempest said, handing the prism back to Faruzan, though his mind was still preoccupied with the implications of this new technology.
Faruzan shook her head and gently pushed the prism back toward him.
"Keep it, Tempest. You might need it sooner than you think. And here."
She added, handing him a folded sheet of paper.
"This is the full Morse code alphabet, from A to Z. Memorize it when you have the time. Trust me, it'll come in handy."
Tempest glanced at the paper, feeling the weight of responsibility increase just a bit more.
"I'll study it when I get the chance."
He promised, carefully tucking the sheet into his pocket. The idea of encoding messages with this new language intrigued him, but there was too much on his plate right now to give it his full attention.
With that, he finished off his coffee in a quick gulp, placing the empty cup on the nearby table.
"Thanks for the coffee, Hatsume."
He said, his tone a little lighter now, though his thoughts were far from settled.
Hatsume gave him a thumbs up, still grinning.
"No problem, chief! You know where to find me if you need anything else, especially if it's something with gears and explosions!"
Faruzan rolled her eyes at the comment, but the banter had eased some of the tension in the room.
"Take care, Tempest."
She called as he began walking toward the exit followed by Nahida.
"Don't get too lost in your work."
Tempest replied, glancing over his shoulder before stepping out into the workshop.
Tempest let out a deep breath. The weight of Fontaine's future, the Abyss threat in Natlan, and the revolutionary potential of Faruzan's technology all bore down on him. His steps echoed softly through the halls as he mentally cataloged everything that needed to be done.
But for now, one task at a time. He had more pressing matters to deal with, and Hatsume's ambitious flying fortress plans weren't going to wait forever.
"I'll figure it all out."
"Tempest, are you seriously heading to Natlan?"
Nahida asked, her voice tinged with concern.
"I am."
Tempest replied, his tone firm but resolute.
"We need to secure the resources for Hatsume's projects. A bit of land from Natlan won't be a bad addition to our holdings, either."
He continued, trying to justify his intentions.
Nahida let out a soft sigh, crossing her arms as she regarded him.
"You're really just going there for the resources, huh? Not actually to help the people?"
Tempest paused, meeting her gaze.
"I'll be honest with you, Young Pasha, yes, yes I am."
He admitted. The truth hung heavy between them.
"I understand the importance of assisting others, especially when there's a looming threat like the Abyss on the horizon. But right now, my primary concern is strengthening our position in Teyvat."
He explained, frustration creeping into his voice. "Hatsume's projects could give us a significant advantage, and if that means negotiating with Natlan's Pyro Archon, then so be it."
Nahida frowned, her brow furrowing in contemplation.
"But Tempest, what about the people? They may be facing an invasion. They need allies, not just someone looking to take advantage of their situation."
"I know."
Tempest replied, his voice softening.
"I care about their plight. But if we don't secure the resources first, how can we hope to help anyone in the long run? It's a delicate balance, and right now, we need to ensure our survival before we can extend a hand to others."
Nahida remained silent for a moment, absorbing his words.
"Just promise me you won't lose sight of what really matters. The people of Natlan are more than just resources to exploit."
"I promise, Young Pasha. I'll do what I can to assist them while also pursuing my goals. Just trust me on this."
Tempest replied, hoping to ease her concerns.
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A week later, Tempest stood on a balcony, gazing down at the bustling Stormwind harbor. The scene below was a whirlwind of activity: his forces were diligently loading supplies onto ships, with the formidable Siege Engines being carefully secured and large boxes containing Mekas being maneuvered into place. In the distance, the impressive silhouettes of the Golden Armada's ships lined the horizon, their masts swaying gently in the sea breeze. Hatsume's latest invention, the Electro Smasher, was also being loaded onto the deck of his flagship, ready to take to the skies.
"I'm glad you took my word, Your Grace."
Constantine said, lounging comfortably on a nearby couch, a kiseru in hand as he exhaled a plume of smoke. His eyes sparkled with excitement at the prospect of their upcoming journey to Natlan.
Tempest turned slightly to glance at his teacher.
"I'll be honest with you, Teacher, I really don't care about the situation in Natlan. The opportunity to secure resources is the main reason I'm doing this."
He replied, his voice steady and unwavering.
Constantine chuckled, his enthusiasm unabated.
"Me neither! Hah, I just want the thrill of battle once again! I haven't felt this excited since the purge!"
His laughter echoed in the open air, a stark contrast to the serious undertones of their mission.
Tempest couldn't help but smile at Constantine's fervor. "
Just remember, Teacher, this isn't just about glory or excitement. We have responsibilities now, both to our people and to those we aim to ally with. If the Abyss is truly planning an invasion, we need to be prepared."
"Ah, always the pragmatist."
Constantine said with a mock sigh.
"But you know what? That's why I have faith in you, Tempest. You've got a good head on your shoulders. Just keep your eyes open, and don't lose sight of your goals while reveling in the thrill of the hunt."
"I'll keep that in mind."
Tempest replied, feeling the weight of leadership pressing upon him. He took a deep breath, inhaling the salty air of the harbor mixed with the scent of smoke from Constantine's kiseru.
"We're about to step into the unknown, but with the Golden Armada at my back, I feel ready for whatever lies ahead."
With that, Tempest returned his gaze to the bustling harbor below, determination shining in his eyes as he mentally prepared for the journey to come.
*Knock Knock*
"Come in."
Tempest called, his attention shifting to the door as he heard a soft rap.
Tirpitz entered the room, her expression resolute. Though most of her burnt wounds hadn't fully healed, she stood tall in her new Ghost suit, a stark reminder of her previous destruction at the hands of Arlecchino.
"Your Grace, I am ready to be deployed in combat once more,"
She declared, her voice firm.
"Are you sure?"
Tempest asked, studying her closely. He could see the remnants of her past injuries, and a part of him worried about whether she was truly prepared for the challenges ahead.
"I am. I won't fail you again, Your Grace."
Tirpitz replied, determination etched across her features. There was a fire in her eyes that Tempest hadn't seen before, a fierce resolve that made him believe in her readiness.
"Very well, then."
He said, nodding.
"You'll be the captain of the Ghost Squadron. Take this."
He tossed her a small device, a control meant to rein in the Ghosts should they step out of line.
"Don't hesitate to press it if necessary."
Tirpitz caught the device deftly, her claws wrapping around it as she examined it closely.
"Understood. I won't let you down, Your Grace. The Ghost Squadron will follow my lead, and together, we'll prove our worth."
Tempest nodded, feeling a swell of pride in her unwavering commitment.
"I know you won't. Just remember, we're not just fighting for ourselves, we're fighting for Fontaine and everyone who depends on us. Keep your squad focused, and make sure they know the stakes."
Tirpitz straightened, determination radiating from her.
"I will make sure they understand. We're ready to face whatever comes our way."
"Good."
Tempest replied.
"Now go prepare your squad. We'll be departing soon, and I expect nothing less than your best."
With a final salute, Tirpitz turned on her heel and strode out of the room, her newfound confidence echoing in her every step.
"The Nation of War, they call it, hm? We'll see about that. Perhaps a spar with the Pyro Archon would be in order, just to test my current strength."