STC stands for Standard Template Construct.
The pinnacle of human technology Dark Age of Technology, capable of automatically generating blueprints for any tool, machine, or building.
Almost all of the Imperium's current technology originates from fragments of STC.
A complete STC is enough to make any world the most valuable asset of the Imperium.
And Brevis has one.
It is said that the St. Garus Family unearthed it from the depths of the ice field hundreds of years ago.
The governor at the time entrusted it to the St. Garus Family for safekeeping on the condition that...
May the St. Garus Family forever protect Brevis.
This is why the Adeptus Mechanicus has such a low profile in Brevis.
They weren't nonexistent; they simply focused all their energy on researching that STC.
Lynn recalled the insane ion shield of the St. Garus Knight mech.
That's a level of strength that ordinary technology can't achieve.
It's highly likely that this is the result of STC.
"Something might have happened to the St. Garus Family," Lynn whispered.
Carter's expression changed.
You mean...?
"I don't know," Lynn interrupted him, "But I have to go and see."
After Carter left, Rena's cool voice rang out.
" Lynn, since that's the case, why not take this opportunity to deal with more nobles first?"
But Lynn unusually refused Rena's offer.
Having read many Warhammer saga stories in his past life, Lynn knew all too well that when you sense something is amiss...
You absolutely cannot delay; there's a 99% chance you'll end up regretting it.
"It's alright, Rena, but we still need to go and see what's going on."
Lynn gently rubbed the Ripper's head.
Lynn's first visit to Saint Garus Castle was three days later.
He deliberately chose a "normal" reason.
In his capacity as governor, he formally visited the Supreme King to discuss matters related to the Purification Crusade.
The exclusive vehicle drove along the widest avenue in the Uptown and stopped at the castle gate.
Lynn got out of the car and looked up at the majestic building.
And four knight mechs beside the castle gate.
They stood silently, their ion shields in standby mode, but the low rumble of their power cores was clearly audible.
A butler dressed in the uniform of the St. Garus Family came out and bowed respectfully but distantly.
"Your Excellency, the Supreme King is unwell and unable to receive you. Please return."
Lynn stared at the four knight mechs and remained silent for two seconds.
"Then give my regards to the High King," he said after a moment's thought.
"Come again next time."
He turned, got into the car, and drove away.
After the vehicle had driven some distance, Rena's voice echoed in his mind:
" The Machine Spirit of those four mechs are activated."
Lynn's eyes narrowed.
The Knight Mech's Machine Spirit is only fully activated when it is about to engage in battle.
Normally it just stays in standby mode, consuming energy to a minimum.
It's very strange that four devices are activated at the same time.
"Are they afraid I'll force my way in?" Lynn said.
He then shook his head, dismissing the idea.
"Are we still going?" Rena asked.
"Go away," he said. "The more they act like this, the more guilty they are."
A week later, Lynn went to Saint Garus Castle for the second time.
This time he chose an even more cunning excuse: that the Upper City Council hadn't convened in a long time, and went to visit them.
This is a meeting created by Caladogon, which is supposed to be held weekly, but it hasn't taken place for two weeks in a row.
Hiding it outright will only increase suspicion.
Sure enough, the door was wide open this time.
Callum Saint- St. Garus was in charge of receiving him.
The head of the family's internal affairs, and also Leo's second uncle.
Lynn paused for a moment when he first saw Callum.
With platinum blonde hair, extremely handsome features, and an air of aristocratic elegance in every gesture, he possessed a striking presence.
If Gus were standing next to them, the two of them would probably form a " Uptown good-looking duo in Uptown".
But Lynn didn't notice his appearance.
It's about temperament.
That kind of gentle, refreshing aura.
The speed, tone, and word choice of speech, along with a well-timed smile and a humble yet assertive attitude.
Lynn felt very comfortable talking to Callum.
Lynn racked his brains for memories of Callum.
Leo rarely mentioned his second uncle, only knowing that he was in charge of internal affairs, never participated in military matters, and usually kept a low profile.
But if Leo were there, he would definitely be surprised.
Because in his memory, his second uncle wasn't particularly handsome.
"Your Excellency, this way please." Callum's voice pulled Lynn back from his thoughts.
Lynn followed, speaking directly as they walked:
How is the Supreme King doing lately?
Callum smiled slightly, a smile that was just right—neither overly obsequious nor impolite.
"His Majesty the Supreme King is unwell and has been resting quietly recently."
"Therefore, I apologize to the Governor for not being able to attend the Upper City Council during this period."
I am unwell.
The reason was standard, but Lynn didn't believe it at all.
"I brought some fruit," Lynn said, gesturing to the basket Doudou was carrying.
"Could you please take me to see him? I'll just say hello and leave."
Callum glanced at the basket full of fresh fruit, a hint of confusion flashing in his eyes.
They probably didn't understand why someone would bring such a thing to visit a sick person.
But his expression remained unchanged, still bearing that perfect smile.
"I will certainly convey the Governor's wishes."
"But the Supreme King needs absolute rest now, and the physician says he cannot receive guests. I'm truly sorry."
Lynn stared at him.
Callum looked at him, his eyes clear and his smile warm.
Lynn then smiled, with an understanding expression.
"Never mind then," Lynn said. "We'll talk about it another day."
What followed was the usual small talk.
Callum is a very good conversationalist.
He knows what to say and what not to say, and he always responds at the perfect moment.
When discussing the Battle of the Forbidden Wall, he expressed his admiration at the opportune moment; when discussing the West District Riot, he expressed his regret at the appropriate time.
When the topic turned to the upcoming Purification Crusade, he showed moderate concern and limited support.
The more Lynn talked, the more she felt something was off.
It's perfect.
It's too perfect to be real.
It's as if every word Callum uttered and every expression he made was meticulously designed.
"Your Excellency," Callum suddenly spoke up halfway through the conversation.
"Since you're here, why don't you stay for a light meal?"
Lynn narrowed her eyes slightly.
His instinct was to refuse; the most important thing now was to go back and analyze the situation, not to have dinner with a dubious nobleman.
But his mouth spoke uncontrollably:
"OK."
He regretted it as soon as the words left his mouth.
Callum smiled broadly, but in that instant, Lynn caught something deep in his eyes.
Triumphant? Or a feeling of confidence?
"Please." Callum gestured invitingly.
Lynn followed him toward the restaurant.
Inside her sleeve, the Ripper twitched slightly; it was Rena sending a signal.
But Lynn seemed completely oblivious to Rena's warning.
Rena, far away on Twin Peaks Mountain, opened her eyes.
She... lost contact with Lynn.