Chapter 455: Gene-Seed
Under Ryo's meticulous regulation and close monitoring over several months, the first batch of twenty units of the new gene-seed successfully completed their foundational cultivation cycle.
This critical phase lasted approximately six to eight months, during which each gene-seed primordium was placed in a specially formulated nutrient solution, developing stably within a rigorously controlled cultivation environment.
The primordia suspended within the nutrient solution exhibited active and healthy biological traits.
Monitoring data indicated that their biological activity readings and gene expression profiles constantly remained within the preset optimal parameter range, without any abnormal fluctuations.
Compared with standard Imperial Fists gene-seeds, this batch of new primordia demonstrated superior harmony and intrinsic potential, and the synergistic effect among various biological indicators was also significantly enhanced.
Throughout the cultivation process, Ryo maintained close, around-the-clock monitoring.
He continuously tracked the developmental state of each primordium through a complex network of sensors, regularly fine-tuning the composition of the nutrient solution to ensure the cultivation environment always remained in an ideal state.
The sterile environment and energy barriers of the laboratory were also consistently maintained at the highest standards, providing a reliable guarantee for the stable development of the gene-seeds.
When the final cultivation cycle concluded smoothly, Ryo performed a systematic verification of all data.
He compared the biological activity curves, gene expression sequences, and physiological function indicators of each gene-seed one by one, confirming that all parameters met or exceeded the expected standards.
After completing the final quality assessment, he transmitted a detailed phased results report to Rogal Dorn via a maximum-security encrypted communication link.
This report not only covered all technical parameters and cultivation results but also included preliminary functional assessment data.
In the report, Ryo objectively articulated the advantageous characteristics of the new gene-seed compared to traditional seeds, while also pointing out several potential issues that required further observation.
The entire reporting process strictly followed the standardized format of the Adeptus Mechanicus, ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the information.
Not long after the report was delivered, Dorn's reply arrived directly at Ryo's laboratory via the encrypted channel.
The communication content maintained his characteristically concise style: "Results confirmed. Proceed to the next phase: screen suitable candidates and initiate the initiate cultivation experiment. Required clearance granted."
Almost simultaneously, the laboratory's perimeter defense nodes detected the arrival of a Black Templars squad.
The leader, Sigismund, clad in his iconic black power armor, stopped at the command node outside the core experimental zone, sending a meeting request to Ryo via the communication channel.
Ryo authorized the opening of the isolation doors to the outer corridors.
Sigismund stepped into the buffer zone alone, stopping before the final barrier to the core experimental zone.
His gaze swept over the precision arrays of instruments inside the laboratory, eventually landing on Ryo's mechanical body.
"Magos Ryo," Sigismund's voice transmitted through his helmet's speakers, carrying his distinct, steady tone. "By the order of Primarch Dorn, my Templars and I will be responsible for the full security of this initiate cultivation experiment. We will ensure the experimental process faces no interference."
Ryo's mechanical body turned slightly, his optical lenses focusing on Sigismund.
"Clearance confirmed. The experimental zone is divided into three security levels. Your troops may garrison the Level 1 and Level 2 zones; the Level 3 core zone is restricted strictly to authorized personnel."
"Understood," Sigismund nodded in response. "We will establish defensive positions on the perimeter and implement strict screening for all personnel entering and exiting. If there are any security concerns, I will personally report them to you."
"Regular security reports must be synchronized via the dedicated data link," Ryo added. "During the experiment, all unscheduled external access must undergo dual authorization."
"The Black Templars will strictly execute the security protocols." Sigismund lightly tapped his breastplate with his right hand. "May the Emperor protect the smooth execution of this experiment."
Following the brief and efficient dialogue, Sigismund turned and left the buffer zone, beginning to deploy the Templars under his command.
Ryo redirected his attention back to the experimental console, bringing up the candidate screening database.
With clear division of labor, the two commenced their cooperation in this new phase.
Arrival at Necromunda
Ryo's forge vessel, the Eternal Seeker, slowly sailed into its dedicated berth at the Necromunda spaceport.
This vessel, equipped with a warp drive, appeared exceptionally striking in the spaceport, its unique structure forming a sharp contrast with the conventional ships surrounding it.
The spaceport welcoming party had long been lined up waiting.
The Governor of Necromunda and his primary officials, dressed in formal attire, respectfully watched the landing hatch open.
Sigismund was the first to step out, the cross insignia on his black power armor glinting coldly under the spaceport illumination.
Ryo's massive mechanical body followed closely behind, his hydraulic systems emitting a smooth operational hum.
"Welcome to Necromunda," the Governor took a step forward, bowing solemnly to the two. "The orbital elevator is prepared and ready, leading directly to the Spear of Dorn at the top layer of the primary hive."
Sigismund nodded slightly: "Lead the way."
The group passed through the spaceport's dedicated corridor, entering the specialized orbital elevator that led straight to the top of the primary hive.
The elevator descended smoothly. Looking through the viewing window, the spectacular sight of the entire hive city could be taken in fully: the densely layered architectural complexes stretched to the horizon, and countless chimneys continuously spewed industrial exhaust, dyeing the sky in shades of grayish-yellow.
The orbital elevator ultimately docked at the Imperial Fists fortress located at the absolute apex of the primary hive—the Spear of Dorn.
This fortress was constructed directly upon the structure of the primary hive, its thick, heavy fortress walls forming a stark contrast with the chaotic hive city architecture below.
The defensive battery arrays at the top of the fortress pointed straight into the sky, constantly maintaining a high state of alertness.
After settling into the fortress command room, Ryo immediately deployed his work.
He retrieved the genetic database of all eligible youths on Necromunda, setting rigorous screening parameters based on the characteristics of the new gene-seed.
Sigismund directed the Black Templars warriors to take over the critical strategic points throughout the fortress, establishing a tight defensive line.
The hive nobility demonstrated an exceptionally high level of cooperation.
The Governor personally arranged administrative personnel to assist with the screening work, while ensuring all procedures met the highest standards of confidentiality.
Inside the laboratory at the top layer of the Spear of Dorn, Ryo began his final preparations.
"The gene-seeds from the Eternal Seeker have been transported to the laboratory via the dedicated channel," Sigismund reported via the communicator. "All security measures are in place."
Ryo's mechanical fingers input a string of commands on the console: "Screening protocol, initiate. The first batch of candidate testing will begin tomorrow."
Within this fortress named after the Primarch, under the strict guard of the Black Templars warriors, an important experiment that might rewrite the future of the Astartes Brotherhood was about to officially commence on Necromunda.
(End of Chapter)