The Primarch of Liberty

Chapter 83: The Shiniest Toys in the Galaxy



Franklin gestured for the next topic. The holographic display shifted to show a magnificent fleet of vessels, each bearing design elements that seemed to blend functional efficiency with ethereal grace.

"The Angel Classification System," SMARTASS began, as a massive vessel took center stage. "Drawing inspiration from ancient Terran literature, these vessels are humanity's guardians among the stars."

"Ancient literature?" Franklin raised an eyebrow.

"Indeed, my lord. If our role is to be humanity's saviors, what better symbols than the celestial hierarchies?" The AI's logic drew appreciative nods from several observers.

The display focused on different classes, each materializing in turn:

"You must be familiar with The Archangel-Class," SMARTASS indicated the Sweet Liberty's classification, "represents the pinnacle of our void-faring might. These command vessels serve as mobile fortresses and strategic centers."

Dr. Hawthorne leaned forward as the next class appeared. "The Seraphim-Class battleships," he muttered, "The energy outputs must be astronomical."n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

"Correct, Doctor," SMARTASS continued. "Following those are the Dominion-Class cruisers, Throne-Class frigates, Cherubim-Class destroyers, and Virtue-Class void craftcarrier. Supporting them all are the Juggernaut-Class forge ships, our mobile manufacturing centers."

Admiral Koshka's eyes narrowed at the tactical displays. "The smaller vessels - the frigates and destroyers - they're using different drive signatures?"

"Precisely, Admiral," SMARTASS confirmed. "Dark Matter Reactors provide minimal void presence, perfect for reconnaissance and flanking maneuvers. While the larger vessels serve as the anvil, these smaller ships become the hammer - or perhaps more accurately, the piranhas that swarm and devour enemy fleets."

Engineer Cortez was already running calculations. "The energy efficiency ratios are unprecedented"

"Affirmative, Doctor. Ten thousand years into the future, our reliance on Zero-Point Energy stems from the staggering energy demands of the Sector. It provides us with a virtually limitless supply of energy. In practical terms, we can almost consider it infinite energy, which is crucial for our advanced technologies and infrastructure."

With the Angel Classification System out of the Way.

The chamber fell silent as SMARTASS projected the next set of data. A massive STC blueprint materialized briefly - the World Engine schematics drawing gasps from the engineering team - but it was what came next that truly captured everyone's attention.

"My lord," SMARTASS began, its tone almost reverent, "there's a personal message attached to this next file." The AI's projection shifted, displaying a note that made Franklin lean forward with interest.

"Father, we humbly present this mech suit, crafted with the utmost care by your sons and daughters from across time. Though we have only beheld your legendary presence through holo-vids, we have poured our hearts, our minds, and our very souls into the creation of this singular marvel. It stands as a tribute to you- the unyielding symbol of liberty."

"The development team includes a remarkable collaboration between our scientists and members of the Adeptus Mechanicus from the future."

Franklin's eyes widened as he read through the names, a rare show of emotion crossing his features. These were his sons, his people, working together across theological and technological divides to create something extraordinary.

The hologram shifted again, and the chamber filled with audible gasps. There, rotating in perfect detail, was a masterwork of engineering that seemed to embody both technological supremacy and artistic beauty.

"Behold, the Patriarch of Liberty," SMARTASS announced, as the suit's specifications began scrolling alongside the display. "Constructed from Tyranimite that has consumed and integrated Auramite, creating an unprecedented hybrid material."

Dr. Elena Vasquez stepped forward, her eyes scanning the material composition her drones analyzing. "The molecular structure is... perfect. The Tyranimite's adaptive properties combined with Auramite's resilience..."

The armor's color scheme materialized: deep navy blue base with bold red stripes running down the arms and chest, while silver stars scattered across the shoulders and caught the light like actual celestial bodies.

"Improved Dimensional storage system," SMARTASS continued, showing how the suit's internal spaces functioned. "Capable of carrying the entire armory of an Astartes Legion. Every weapon type, from bolt weapons to the heaviest ordinance known to man, can be stored and accessed instantly."

Franklin couldn't help himself. "Murica!" he whistled, drawing knowing chuckles from his inner circle. Even in the grim darkness of the far future, some cultural touchstones remained eternal.

"The defensive systems are equally impressive," SMARTASS proceeded, displaying the layered shielding diagram. "Multiple overlapping shields make it virtually invulnerable to conventional weapons, theoretically if data is correct you could walk off being hit by a nuclear warhead or a Titan-Grade Weapon...once"

Franklin chuckled "Who would be stupid enough to stand in front of a Titan's Crosshairs" Chief Engineer Cortez was practically vibrating with excitement. "The Zero-Point Energy Generator... it's not just powering the suits systems, it's actively generating ammunition for energy weapons. Infinite ammunition as long as the generator functions!"

"Only physical ammunition requires resupply," SMARTASS confirmed. "Though the dimensional storage allows for substantial reserves not only that Auramite is almost quantum-inert, and so is an effective material for the use of psychic abilities and the manipulation of warp energy, second only to bare skin in terms of conductivity"

Franklin stepped closer to the hologram, his hand passing through the projection where he would have touched the chest plate. "How soon can we begin production?"

"With the STC data provided," SMARTASS replied, "we can begin immediately. Though I should note - this is merely the first of several armor designs included in the database."

"Others?" Franklin's eyebrow raised.

"Indeed. There are variants designed for your inner circle, the Liberty Eagles, and even advanced patterns for the Liberty Guard. Shall I continue?"

The holographic display shifted, and SMARTASS's voice took on an almost ceremonial tone as it introduced the next design. "The Shogun-Pattern Exo Armor, Designation SPE-03 it announced, as an elegant yet lethal suit of armor materialized in the chamber's center.

All eyes turned to Denzel Washington, whose expression remained composed even as his eyes betrayed intense interest. The First Captain's heritage as keeper of ancient samurai traditions made this reveal particularly meaningful.

"Constructed from Tyranimite-consumed Adamantium," SMARTASS detailed, as the armor rotated to show its full glory. "But its true innovation lies in its integrated systems."

The hologram highlighted two magnificent swords - Kusanagi no Tsurugi and Totsuka no Tsurugi - their patterns somehow both ancient and futuristic. Alongside them materialized a sleek energy bow. "The Tachyon Long Bow," SMARTASS explained, "reverse-engineered from Necron technology. It can fire inert metals in the shape of arrows into a clap of thunderbolt capable of piercing a mountain...there are limitations of course"

Dr. Elena Vasquez leaned forward, her eyes scanning the data fascinated by the next feature. "A modified Necron Death Mask?"

"Correct, Doctor," SMARTASS confirmed. "The integrated targeting system allows detection of phase-shifted and cloaked units. Combined with the Quantum Shielding and Gheist Prism Field - a hybrid of Golden Age and Necron cloaking technology - it makes the wearer nearly impossible to detect or engage."

Henry, watching from his position, nodded slowly. "So that explains the spectral images in combat. I always wondered how the Chapter Master seemed to be everywhere at once." Franklin chuckled, nudging Denzel with his elbow. "Going full traditional in the future, eh?"

Denzel's lip quirked in a slight smirk. "Seems future me didn't change the Liberty Eagles... just added some personal flair to the Honor Guard."

"Indeed," SMARTASS confirmed, before smoothly transitioning to the next display. "And now, for the Second Captain..."

The hologram shifted dramatically, revealing a massive, intimidating suit of armor that seemed built for pure devastation. "The Juggernaut Pattern Exo Armor, designation JPE-01, designed for the Executioner himself."

Steven Armstrong straightened as his future armor was revealed. The suit towered like a walking fortress, its silhouette radiating raw power and unstoppable force. "Primary construction utilizes Tyranimite-Infused Adamantium," SMARTASS detailed. "Testing logs indicate it can withstand direct hits from nuclear warheads, with shields

engaged."

The armor's surface bore proud Liberty Eagles iconography - eagles and freedom's symbols artfully integrated into its menacing frame. Multiple shield generators created overlapping fields of protection: Void Shields, Ion Shields, and Atomantic Shields working in concert.

But it was the next feature that drew everyone's attention. "The Armstrong Pattern Power Fists," SMARTASS announced, zooming in on the massive gauntlets. "Integrated with advanced nanomachine colonies that reinforce structural integrity during impact. Put simply - the harder you hit, the stronger they become and nigh indestructable" "Complemented by integrated disintegration weapons," the AI continued, "and the latest iteration of the Armstrong Nanomachine programming."

Franklin's booming laugh filled the chamber as he threw an arm around Steven's shoulders. "Nanomachines, son!" he exclaimed, drawing appreciative chuckles from the gathered

leadership.

"A question," Dr. Hiromi Suzuki interjected. "The note mentioned these are experimental designs from M41 - ten thousand years of refinement. Will they need adaptation for current

users?"

"Correct," SMARTASS confirmed. "While the basic architectures are sound, certain adjustments will be needed to match current combat styles and preferences. These were designed around legendary reputations rather than living warriors."

"Then we'll adapt them," Franklin declared. "Take the best of both timelines - their advanced technology, our present knowledge of our warriors' needs." He looked around the

chamber.

"Indeed, Lord Valorian. Shall I proceed with the next revelation?"

Franklin nodded, his expression both proud and determined.

Vladimir Mendelev's stoic expression broke into rare fascination as SMARTASS displayed the

next set of designs. The holographic projection shifted to show an ethereal-looking suit of armor that seemed to exist partially in both realspace and the warp.

"The Wraith Pattern Exo-Armor," SMARTASS announced, "designated WPEA-01. While we borrowed concepts from the Grey Knights, we've integrated Aeldari warding techniques to create something uniquely suited to our FBI's capabilities."

The Chief Librarian stepped closer, his psychic senses already detecting the potential in the design. The hologram showed layers of Tyranimite-infused Wraithbone, creating intricate patterns that seemed to ripple with otherworldly energy.

"Fascinating," Vladimir murmured, taking another swig from his ever-present canister. "The warp-displacement field... it's not just blocking psychic attacks, it's redirecting them." "Correct," SMARTASS confirmed. "The suit creates a barrier similar to those employed by Aeldari Farseers, but enhanced with our own innovations. Observe the Psycho-Crystal

Matrix."

The display highlighted an intricate crystalline network throughout the armor. "This system not only protects against warp entities but amplifies the wearer's psychic abilities. Our future data shows it increasing psychic potential by orders of magnitude." Vladimir's smile widened - a sight that made several others in the room subtly step back. A smiling Librarian was often cause for concern. "Perfect," he said simply. SMARTASS then shifted the display to another impressive suit of armor. "And for John Ezra, Head of the Secret Service - the Honor Pattern Exo-Armor, HPEX-01."

John stepped forward, his calculating eyes taking in every detail of what appeared to be a

walking fortress. The suit bristled with weaponry while maintaining an aura of dignified authority.

"A mobile command center," SMARTASS explained. "Capable of coordinating entire campaigns while delivering devastating firepower. The autonomous plasma cannons alone can eliminate heavy armor or infantry formations with equal efficiency."

"The missile systems," John noted, pointing to the back-mounted arrays. "Multi-stage?"

"Indeed. Everything from armor-piercing warheads to wide-area suppression munitions. Combined with the arm-mounted disintegration cannons, few targets can withstand a full

barrage."

Franklin watched with approval as his security chief analyzed the defensive systems. The quantum shield generators and adaptive armor would ensure his survival in even the most chaotic battlefields.

"The sensor network is particularly impressive," SMARTASS added. "No more surprises on the battlefield. Full spectrum awareness across multiple kilometers."

"Our sons thought of everything," Franklin noted proudly. "Vladimir gets his psychic

amplifier, John gets his mobile fortress, and all of it built to complement each other." Vladimir raised his canister in a toast. "To the future we're building - or rather, rebuilding." "The production facilities are ready whenever you give the word, Lord Valorian," SMARTASS reported. "Though I should note there are still several more designs to review..."

The holographic displays continued cycling through an endless parade of technological marvels. Power armor designs from Mark III through X flashed by, each with their specialized variants. Terminator patterns followed, showing evolutionary improvements that had taken millennia to perfect in the original timeline. Then came the progression of Exo-Armor

Models 1 through 10.

Franklin's smirk grew wider with each passing design. Around him, his team had varying

reactions - the scientists were already calculating implementation schedules, the military leaders assessing tactical implications. But Franklin saw something more: leverage. Every blueprint, every innovation was another nail in Mars' coffin. The Mechanicum's

harassment of their sector would soon be answered - not with mere force, but with technological supremacy that would make their binary cant stutter in disbelief. "Enough," Franklin gestured as SMARTASS began displaying weapons systems. The holographic parade of Imperial, Necron-derived, Aeldari, and Dark Age human technologies froze mid-presentation. "Let's focus on implementation. Dr. Cortez, Zero Point Energy integration. Priority one. Timeline?"

Chief Engineer Amelia Cortez's drones were already running calculations. "Minimum twenty years for full sector integration, including all branch systems," she reported. "That's assuming current resource allocation and construction capabilities."

"The cooling systems will be crucial," Dr. Hawthorne noted, examining the advanced thermal management designs that had just scrolled past. "Infinite energy means infinite heat buildup

without proper containment."

"My lord," SMARTASS interrupted, "we should discuss what may be the most crucial

advancement." The AI's projection shifted to display a new set of biological and genetic schematics. "The Primaris Project."

Dr. Elara Chen stepped forward, her eyes bright with excitement as she recognized her own

work - or rather, her future self's work. The genetic sequences displayed showed improvements to the basic Astartes template that bordered on miraculous. "Dr. Chen," Franklin turned to his chief biotechnologist. "Timeline for implementation?"

Chen's augmented reality interface flickered as her drones processed data. "A Year minimum to prepare for the first conversions. We'll need to establish new biotechnology facilities, but with the complete research data..." She smiled. "We can avoid decades of trial and error."

The Inner Circle straightened at this news. Denzel, Steven, John, and Vladimir exchanged looks - the possibility of becoming even more formidable warriors clearly appealing to them. "And Sweet Liberty?" Franklin turned to Dr. Hawthorne. "What can we do for our flagship?" Hawthorne's augmented eyes were already processing the upgrade schematics. "With these advances in Zero Point Energy and the new Inertialess Drive systems... we're not talking about

upgrades, my lord. We're talking about a complete overhaul. Sweet Liberty will be reborn."

"Timeline?"

"Six months for initial modifications, another Six for full integration of the advanced systems. We'll need to do it in stages to maintain operational capability." Hawthorne paused. "But when it's done... she'll be the most powerful vessel in the galaxy." Franklin nodded, his mind already plotting the next moves. Mars had always underestimated

them, dismissed them as upstart deviants from the Omnissiah's path. Now they held the keys to technological advancement that would make the Mechanicum's hoarded secrets look like primitive scrap.

"Begin immediately," he commanded. "Dr. Chen, establish your Primaris facilities. Dr. Hawthorne, start Sweet Liberty's and her battlefleet's transformation. Amelia, coordinate the Zero Point Energy integration - prioritize military installations and crucial infrastructure, and someone begin manufacturing our Weapons the new ones"

He turned to address the entire group. "Ladies and gentlemen, we're about to leap forward

ten thousand years in technology. I expect every department to coordinate seamlessly. The future of the Independence Sector - and humanity itself - depends on our success." As the others filed out of the chamber, SMARTASS's holographic interface dimmed briefly

before regenerating with new data. "Lord Valorian, there are additional matters requiring your attention."

Franklin paused, noting the AI's shift in tone. "Go ahead."

The display transformed into a massive walker that dwarfed even traditional Titan designs. "Updates to the Castigator-Class Autonomous Bipedal Weapons Platform, The Father of the Titans nicknamed by the Sector's scientific minds as Ouranus" SMARTASS began, scrolling through weapons systems that made Franklin's eyebrows rise incrementally higher.

But it was the next projection that truly caught his attention - sleeker, more agile machines designated as "Armored Cores."

"What are these?" Franklin asked, studying the intricate designs. The display shifted to show sleek, highly mobile mechanical constructs, each about a quarter

of the size of a Warhound Titan but bristling with sophisticated weaponry. "These were developed as escort units for the Castigator-Class," SMARTASS explained. "High-mobility combat platforms capable of responding to threats too agile for the larger Titans to

effectively engage."

"Impressive," Franklin nodded, but he noticed SMARTASS seemed to hesitate - an unusual behavior for an AI. "What else?"

After a moment's pause, a new set of schematics appeared. These showed what appeared to

be perfectly normal humans, but as the layers peeled back, their true nature became apparent. "The Android Project," SMARTASS announced. "Advanced synthetic humans, virtually indistinguishable from biological humans except for their inability to reproduce naturally. They served various roles in the Sector, from combat units to civilian specialists." Franklin studied the designs carefully. The technological achievement was remarkable, but he

understood the philosophical and political implications immediately. "The resemblance to prohibited Men of Iron research..."

"Is superficial," SMARTASS completed. "These units were developed with multiple redundant safeguards and loyalty protocols. However, given the historical context, we understand the sensitivity of the project."

Franklin stood, pacing the chamber as he considered the implications. "The Titan improvements we can begin immediately. The Armored Core Project as well - they're clearly

combat platforms, and we can present them as such." He paused, looking at the Android schematics. "But this... this requires careful handling."

"Shall I contact Aegis to begin preliminary discussions?" SMARTASS asked, referring to the

Sector's diplomatic AI interface.

"Yes. We'll need to prepare our case carefully. I will explain to Father the utility, but others..." He trailed off, thinking of the more conservative elements within the Imperium. "We'll need to demonstrate clear differences from the Men of Iron. Absolute proof of control and loyalty."

"Of course, Lord Valorian. Shall I prepare a detailed briefing on the ethical and security

protocols developed in the future timeline?"

"Yes. And SMARTASS?"

"My lord?"

"Make sure Aegis understands - these androids aren't just machines. If we're going to create

synthetic humans, we're going to treat them as humans. I won't have a second class of citizens in my sector."

"The future data suggests you made the same decision then this was dated 013.31M, my lord.

It proved... beneficial to overall sector stability, once you were gone" Franklin smiled slightly. "Good to know I stay consistent. Begin the preparations. We have a

lot of work ahead of us."

As the holographic display faded, Franklin considered the implications. Titans that could

make the current imperial god-machines look obsolete, escort units that redefined mobility in large-scale warfare, and synthetic humans that could expand humanity's capabilities while raising fascinating questions about the nature of consciousness itself. The future was going to be interesting indeed.