[Automata] observed as the [Golem station] meticulously pieced together the inaugural prototype [Golem], designed to clear and harness the copious amounts of [Ice] in the vicinity. A name for it had yet to be chosen, and [Automata] and his counterparts intended to evaluate its performance in the frigid outdoors before finalizing their decision.
The meticulously crafted [Golem] stood as a testament to efficiency, boasting a remarkable design that incorporated an innovative combination of materials. Its numerous limbs, resembling thin strings, were composed of an alloy seamlessly blending [Automata Iron] and [Frost Iron]. The vaguely humanoid body, consisting of interlocking plates crafted from thin sheets of [Frost iron], exuded a sleek and resilient aesthetic.
Adding to its versatility, the [Golem] featured a small compartment on its back that could detach and morph into a variety of tools, adapting dynamically to the demands of its many dexterous hands. Within its frame, an internal mana system wove a delicate barrier of [Frost mana], strategically implemented to create a subtle shield. This intricate mechanism aimed to deceive the wild mana within the surrounding [Ice], preventing the [Golem] from succumbing to freezing temperatures and ensuring its optimal functionality.
In their pursuit of precision, the creation of the prototype [Automata] marked a thorough commitment from all of [Automata]'s minds. They spared no effort to ensure that the collected data was both comprehensive and accurate. The alloy itself posed a formidable challenge, requiring weeks of relentless experimentation to determine a stable ratio that met their stringent standards.
Scaling up the production involved the sacrifice of numerous [Builder golems], tasked with constructing the inaugural [Frost forge]. Crafted from [Frost iron], this forge defied convention as it steadfastly resisted any attempts to generate heat. Regardless of the duration or intensity of its operation, the forge remained chillingly cold, further compounded by its unique inability to produce [Alloys].
The forge was a bit crude due to the way it was constructed, but once the [V2 Builder Golems] were completed, that would change. The discovery of [Frost iron] changed his plans greatly, and he wanted to remake the entire [Production room] with it. Not only could it not heat up, but it was also stronger than [Automata Iron] and could withstand more force, making it a perfect substitute for building when it came to production-related issues.
[Automata] harbored aspirations of replacing all his conventional furnaces with [Frost forges], envisioning a future where these innovative structures would redefine the very essence of his manufacturing process. However, this ambitious plan hinged on securing a consistent supply of [Ice], a challenge that the [Golem] prototype aimed to address, assuming its success.
Reflecting on the challenging encounter with the [Noble Goblin], [Automata] found himself grappling with a sense of unease. The sheer difficulty posed by a single [Noble Goblin], even in death, raised questions about the potential threats posed by others of its kind. Was the formidable nature of that encounter indicative of all [Noble Goblins], or was the defeated one a unique exception? The discrepancy in power between the first encounter with a [Noble Goblin] and the recent one suggested a level of distinctiveness among these entities, potentially linked to their noble status.
This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.
The variance between a smaller noble and a more imposing counterpart fueled [Automata]'s curiosity and concern, prompting him to ponder the intricacies of goblin hierarchy and the challenges it might pose to his expansion plans.
The aftermath of the battle left [Automata] grappling with a sense of frustration. Despite consuming the [Souls] of the fallen goblins, the lack of substantial information gleaned was disheartening. The [Souls], rather than yielding insights into the nature of goblins or potential weaknesses, were entirely dedicated to the formation of [Automata]'s name. This informational void left him in a precarious position, as the less he understood about the goblins, the greater the threat they posed. The relentless and overwhelming numbers of goblins, evidenced by their indiscriminate attempts to seize his [Central Core], underscored the urgency of acquiring knowledge to enhance his strategic advantage against these formidable adversaries.
[Automata] apprehensively anticipated the inevitable onslaught of another goblin invasion, one potentially surpassing the scale of the previous assault. Recognizing that a current confrontation might spell certain demise, he also considered the possibility of survival, given the [Noble Goblin]'s evident preference for capturing him alive. The motives behind the [Goblin Empire]'s persistent interest in [Automata] remained enigmatic, leaving him to speculate whether it was due to his species' rarity or some unique trait distinguishing him from other [Dungeon Cores]. Regardless, the prospects appeared grim, and the impending challenges only heightened the urgency of fortifying his defenses and acquiring essential knowledge for a strategic advantage.
As [Automata] concluded his contemplation, the [Golem station] completed the construction of the new [Golem], presenting it for testing. Despite its slender legs, the [Golem] exhibited remarkable speed, effortlessly reaching the tunnel's edge leading to the frigid wasteland beyond. The true trial awaited, for [Automata]'s domain terminated here, exposing the [Golem] to the merciless onslaught of the elements. The first phase aimed to gauge its resistance to the cold, followed by the second phase, where it would collect [Ice] without succumbing to freezing or damage. The third and final phase sought its return with the harvested [Ice], unscathed.
Responding to a mental command, the internal mechanisms governing the [Frost Mana] barrier activated, creating a delicate shield of pale blue mana around the [Golem]. As it ventured into the icy wasteland, the barrier faced a relentless assault from wild [Frost Mana], yet it withstood the onslaught admirably. The [Golem] navigated through the frozen terrain, unperturbed by the ice and falling snow.
The [Golem] swiftly identified a modest mound of magical [Ice] and approached it. Each step became more challenging as the wild [Frost Mana] relentlessly assaulted the barrier, yet it persevered, enabling the [Golem] to reach the collection site. Once in proximity, the compartment on its back unfolded, revealing a spiked iron tip that started rotating at high speed. Attached to one of its hands, the [Golem] maneuvered the tool towards the hill. However, as the hand breached the barrier, it burst, allowing the wild [Frost Mana] to engulf the [Golem], instantly encasing it in a layer of ice.