The Emperor’s Angel of Death

Chapter 2718: The Gravedigger Project

"The difficulty in replicating this technology lies in the design that keeps all parameters dynamic during magnetic field focusing to achieve maximum efficiency. Based on known mathematical models, this is impossible. In other words, with our current theoretical understanding, it's very difficult to construct a method that can safely generate and release such enormous energy. This energy discharge must operate within a defined range, and because the power requirements are extremely high, even the slightest design flaw can lead to huge energy losses. If mechanical triggers are used to deliver the pulse, the tiny irregularities in the material will dissipate a large amount of energy the moment the firing devices make contact, causing it to completely vaporize. When the triggers close, the vaporized surface and the molten metal underneath will weld together, destroying the trigger. How the Necron weapons overcome this problem is still unclear, but it's certainly related to the mysterious materials they commonly use, which involves material science challenges that need to be overcome."

Sorskyan nodded, not fully understanding but appearing to.

"It seems the road to research is still long and arduous."

"Give us enough time, and we will unlock these secrets. Humanity is the most superior race in the galaxy. These aliens have only existed longer than us, so their technological accumulation is greater, but our wisdom will soon surpass them."

Facing the confident alien sage, Sorskyan simply smiled encouragingly:

"I have great faith in that. Speaking of which, if the weapons are well-preserved, can humans use them? Or install them on combat robots, or even the Adeptus Custodes?"

"Well, melee weapons are not a problem, as they basically don't require additional energy supply. But ranged weapons won't work. Alien rifles are basically tied to their metal bodies and require a power source within the body to continuously provide energy."

"I see."

After thinking for a moment, Sorskyan summoned the White Templars' Forge Master, Ben Albert, and then Sirad, the Ur-Lan Huda sage responsible for this expedition fleet, as well as Prezemislo, the Forge Overseer of Ekvorria.

Once everyone was present, he cut straight to the point:

"I plan to establish an independent Necron technology research and development joint laboratory, with personnel from the Legion's technical department and the two forge worlds participating in the laboratory's construction and work. The laboratory will report directly to the Legion and be jointly managed by the two Forge Masters."

As soon as Sorskyan said this, Prezemislo immediately expressed a degree of confusion.

"Legion Master, what is the reason for this?"

"I believe that deciphering Necron technology is of great significance to humanity right now. Human weapons and materials technology have not made significant progress for a long time. This long-term technological stagnation has brought many adverse consequences. Although the Imperium of Man can still crush its enemies with its sheer size, this also leads to high war costs for the Imperium, and everyone has to pay for costly wars. But don't forget that while humanity is stagnating, other races are progressing, such as—"

Originally, Sorskyan wanted to say T'au, but then realized that everyone here might not know about the T'au, so he changed his words:

"Perhaps we can excavate knowledge from our ancient ancestors, but since there is ready-made technology available here, why should we turn a blind eye to it? Especially since the Necrons, this remnant of the ancient era, have become increasingly active in recent centuries, especially in the Storm Zone. I received intelligence long ago that vast Necron tombs are slumbering in the dark universe on the edge of the zone. If they awaken on a large scale, then all of us will be the first to bear the brunt. Therefore, we must not only understand the enemy, but also learn from the enemy and restrain the enemy, otherwise we will have to pay an extremely heavy price."

"Legion Master, I understand the importance of researching Necron technology. Ekvorria has been engaged in this research. Perhaps you can completely transfer this work to us?"

Sorskyan simply replied indifferently:

"We must speed up the process, so the best way is to pool our efforts and concentrate our research power on key areas. After all, the research conducted independently by each forge world is a great waste of manpower and resources. It's possible that everyone is doing the same thing and getting the same results, and this is a very common occurrence in the Imperium. A large amount of resources are wasted on constantly repeated research. I am determined to change this. In the future, this laboratory will also expand in scale. For example, the alien research sages from Zhao-Arkad and Yellow Springs VIII can also join. We are not working for ourselves or for a particular forge world. This laboratory is working for all of humanity, and the research results, after repeated confirmation of safety and purity, will be provided free of charge to all participating forge worlds. We will not hoard or monopolize them. Besides efficiency, the second reason is safety considerations. After all, in the current Imperial political environment, this kind of research is still in a gray area and can easily attract criticism or even accusations. Therefore, placing it under the direct management of the Legion can avoid many security loopholes and make it easier to maintain secrecy."

Now that Sorskyan had spoken, Prezemislo could not say anything more and could only nod in agreement:

"I support your idea, Legion Master. Ekvorria will send its best scholars to participate."

The Sirad sage was no exception.

"Ur-Lan Huda will continue to support all your decisions."

"Legion Master, the underlying logic of these alien technologies is completely different from human technology. There are many things to research. If we establish such a comprehensive laboratory, what will be the main areas to focus on?"

Ben Albert, as always, looked at the problem from the most practical perspective, which was what Sorskyan appreciated most about him. Perhaps this Forge Master did not have a strong innovative spirit or pioneering spirit, but his rigor and practicality were very suitable for managing complex projects.

"Although time is tight, I also know that science cannot be achieved overnight, so everything should start with breakthroughs in the most basic areas, mainly materials and energy systems."

"Legion Master, sometimes the simplest things are the most difficult."

"I am aware of that. At least let's start doing it. How can we know the results if we don't try?"

After that, Sorskyan turned his gaze to Prezemislo.

"Overseer, for the future research needs of the laboratory, I may need to take away most of the key equipment and items in that underground tomb, but the forge world can still continue its own research."

Although reluctant, Prezemislo knew he had no choice. After all, if it weren't for Sorskyan, such a powerful Necron fleet might have destroyed their forge world.

He was their savior, so naturally, he could say whatever he wanted.

"To facilitate internal communication, this laboratory will be codenamed 'Gravedigger'. This is a highly confidential organization, so please keep it secret."

"Yes."

The group then discussed some post-war arrangements, but a footstep attracted Sorskyan's attention. He saw Amnak stand up, walk to his side, and whisper:

"The Untarnished just sent me a message. The things and people have been found. He wants you to go see him now. He just arrived on this ship via Thunderhawk and is waiting for you in a hall."

Sorskyan nodded slightly after hearing this.

"Understood, I'll go over right away."