Origin

We're sent back to the past, a year before Copper 9's explosion. The scenery was an adimly lit boardroom. The furniture was made of polished wood, and the humans sitting in the chairs looked stern and serious. The air was thick with tension, and I could feel the weight of their concerns.

The human leading the meeting had a commanding presence and spoke with authority, "Men, although the project with the Worker Drones has been successful thus far, we're running into a small snag: Their primary source of fuel, oil, is quickly running dry."

"We need a new form of power; something that can make the Worker Drones run for longer periods of time without needing to refuel. Something that's not limited by the laws of thermodynamics."

As he finished speaking, a man in the corner of the room raised his hand. His face was lit up with excitement as he exclaimed. "I believe I have just the right idea to fix this conundrum, Mr. Manager. We should use nuclear energy to power our Worker Drones."

"Uranium can be easily found on Copper 9, and it's quite abundant. In fact, it's almost impossible to find another planet with that much uranium. And considering the amount of energy output compared to any other source, it's a surefire way to solve this problem." The man explained, proposing a new source of energy for this conundrum.

The room fell silent as everyone considered the man's proposal. The idea of nuclear energy was not new, but it was still a controversial topic.

Some worried about the potential dangers and risks involved with such a powerful source of energy. Yet, as the discussion continued, it became clear that this was the only viable solution. The stakes were high, and the future of their project rested on this decision.

The manager leaned forward, his gaze fixed on the man. "Interesting proposition, Mr. Mann. May you explain your reasoning in further detail for the rest of the room to hear?" He asked.

Mr. Mann stood up from his seat, his eyes gleaming with excitement. As he began to speak, his voice was filled with a contagious passion that quickly spread throughout the room.

"Gladly. Uranium is one of the most powerful sources of energy known to mankind. Because of its unparalleled potential, it's highly sought after by many companies, but none dare to experiment with it as of yet due to the immense danger it presents."

"However, I have created the perfect method to remove the dangers and maximize the efficiency of this energy source. I call it: 'Project: Atomizer Drone'." Mann said as he walked up to the board and began to draw a diagram of what he wanted the atomizer drone to look like.

"My initial plan was to simply create nuclear-powered batteries and replace the ones current Worker Drones have. However, I decided to take things a step further and design a more efficient version of the Worker Drone model." He explained

"I even considered implementing the nanobot technology within their bodies, so that they would not need traditional repairs." Mann said, his voice rising with excitement.

"Not only that, but make it capable of absorbing other types of natural energy. For example, sunlight and electricity generated from storms. This means that these new Worker Drones would never need to refuel."

"As long as the sun is shining or lightning strikes, the Worker Drones will be able to keep going for a very long time. And, nuclear energy would only ensure this claim much more." Mann added, his eyes sparkling with pride at the brilliance of his idea.

The room erupted into a buzz of conversation, as everyone began to discuss the potential of Mann's proposal. It was clear that this was a game-changing idea, one that could revolutionize the industry and change the course of history.

"This sounds like a great idea, Mr. Mann. How would you go about building the Atomizer Drone? Also, how would it function in conjunction with the existing Worker Drones?" The manager asked.

"Well, first off, we'd need to build an industrial plant within Copper 9's biggest uranium mine. Next, excavators, extractors and other equipment to keep drilling for uranium would need to be installed."

"Once the uranium has been extracted, I'll need to manufacture and install tubes and pipes to transport the uranium to the factory where we'll begin to process it." Mann explained.

"The processed uranium would be used to power the factory, thus creating a loop where the uranium becomes the power source to keep mining itself."

"And due to how little uranium we would need to produce to do so, we'd generate more than enough to put towards the production of the new Worker Drones." He added.

"Our main goal should be to build the factory as soon as possible, while ensuring we're safe from any radioactive fallout. Other than that, I think the rest will fall into place pretty easily."

However, then there's the matter of the nanotech I'd mentioned earlier. If we were to go through with the idea of implementing it within this upgraded Worker Drone, would that still be possible within this situation?" He asked.

The manager leaned forward, his brows furrowed in thought. "I see. It's quite an ambitious plan, Mr. Mann. Building an industrial plant within Copper 9's biggest uranium mine would be a massive undertaking. But if we can make it work, the potential benefits are enormous."

He glanced around the room, taking in the nods of agreement from the other attendees. "Let's assume we move forward with this plan. How exactly would the Atomizer Drone function in conjunction with the existing Worker Drones?"

Mr. Mann's eyes lit up as he launched into his explanation. "Well, the Atomizer Drone would serve as the main power source for the other Worker Drones. Its unique design allows it to absorb various types of energy, including nuclear, solar, and electrical. This means that the Atomizer Drone would be constantly charged and capable of sustaining itself indefinitely."

He paused for a moment, thinking. "As for the nanotech implementation, it's definitely still possible. The new Worker Drones will be built from the ground up, so we can incorporate any upgrades or modifications we see fit. It might take a bit of extra work, but I'm confident we can make it happen."

The manager nodded slowly, taking it all in. "Alright, I think we have a solid plan here. Let's get to work on making it a reality."

The board members exchange glances, unsure of whether or not they should let the man continue. A man standing at the very end of the desk, noticeably the tallest one in the room and coated in darkness, made his voice heard.

"Mister Mann, I must say, I'm intrigued by your idea. It's bold and daring, in a sense. However, personally don't feel that you've taken this idea's potential to its fullest extent." The chairman said.

"What do you mean, boss?" Mann asked.

"As you know, we have a strict policy against giving Worker Drones access to any type of weaponry, armament, or anything regarding that matter. While I believe this is a wise decision, it does hinder us from taking full advantage of our Worker Drones' capabilities. In this case, I'll be willing to make an exception for you and your project." The chairman explained.

Mann's eyes widened with excitement at the chairman's words. "You mean to say that we can give the Atomizer Drones access to weapons?" he asked, a hint of enthusiasm in his voice.

The chairman nodded. "Yes, but it's not just weapons. We can make them into fully functional military drones. With their unlimited energy source, they could stay airborne for months, providing surveillance and intelligence, and even launching attacks without the need for refueling. It would give us an unprecedented advantage over any other organization, military or otherwise."

Mann's mind raced with possibilities. "That's amazing, sir. With this technology, we could revolutionize the way wars are fought. We could make a real difference in the world."

The chairman nodded again. "Indeed, we could. But we must be careful with this technology. It's too powerful to be placed in the wrong hands. We must make sure that it's only used for the greater good."

Mann looked at the chairman, feeling a sense of awe and respect for the man. He knew that this decision would change the course of history. And he was proud to be a part of it.

"But...sir? While I'm not one to go against orders, I do feel that this is a bit too far. I mean, we're talking about replacing an entire fleet of Worker Drones with something better and newer."

"Taking into account the energy source the Atomizer Drone will be using, giving it weapons is an enormous gamble." Mann said, doubting how wise this option was.

"What's more, I only suggested implementing nanobots to provide it with its own version of regeneration and repair. The rest of its functions as a Worker Drone would remain unchanged. There wouldn't even be a need to give it new weapons, since there's no looming threat as of now. Why would we be forced to make such a drastic change?" He added.

"Think, Mister Mann. What will the original Worker Drones do when they learn they're about to be replaced by superior models? They'll surely revolt and start a rebellion before the project is even finished if they were to find out." The chairman explained

"No, it's best to prepare for said situation beforehand. If we can come up with a solution to avoid such a scenario, it would be a wise move on our part." He added.

Mann stood there, deep in thought. He knew the chairman had a point, but he still had his reservations. After a few moments of silence, he finally spoke up.

"Alright, I understand your point. But if we're going to give the Atomizer Drone weapons, we need to make sure it's foolproof. We can't afford any accidents or malfunctions. And as for the Worker Drones, we could always gradually phase them out, instead of outright replacing them all at once. That way, they'll have time to adjust and we won't risk a rebellion." Mann suggested.

The chairman nodded in agreement. "Yes, that's a good idea. We'll make sure that the Atomizer Drone is thoroughly tested and all safety measures are put in place. And we'll also consider your suggestion of phasing out the old Worker Drones slowly. We want to avoid any unnecessary chaos and upheaval."

Mann felt a sense of relief wash over him. He knew that the Atomizer Drone was a game-changing invention, but he didn't want to compromise safety or risk causing unrest within the company. With the chairman's compromise, he could continue with the project with a clear conscience.

"Well then, could I possibly get permission to proceed?" Mann asked.

"Yes, you'll be given the resources necessary to build the factory and the initial manufacturing equipment. But, I want you to understand that I'm asking for a lot of faith here." The chairman warned.

"Not only are you the head of the research department, but you're also the head of the development team assigned to this project. Should anything happen, it'll fall on your hands to fix it. Understand?" He asked asked.

Mann nodded, understanding the weight of responsibility that had just been placed on his shoulders. "Yes, sir. I won't let you down."

"Good. Then it's settled. You have my approval to proceed with Project Atomizer Drone. But, remember, you'll have to work hard to earn the trust of the other board members, as well as the workers who will be affected by this project." The chairman said.

"Now, the power plant facility will be built as fast as possible. Please take in mind that the process of building said facility in an entirely different exoplanet alone will take a few months, perhaps years."

"Transporting materials from Earth to Copper 9 will only add on to that timeframe. For the time being, I suggest you make the best of it and start working on the new programming for this said Worker Drone's AI." He finished.

Mann nodded, taking in the chairman's words. He knew that this was a massive project that would require a lot of dedication and hard work, but he was up for the challenge. He was excited to get started on the AI programming, knowing that this was a crucial component that would set the Atomizer Drone apart from its predecessors.

"Understood, sir. I'll make sure to keep you updated on our progress," Mann said.

"Excellent. I have high hopes for this project, Mister Mann. Don't disappoint me," the chairman said with a small smile before ending the meeting.

Mann gathered his notes and headed out of the boardroom, his mind already racing with ideas for the new AI programming. He knew that this was just the beginning of a long and difficult journey, but he was determined to make the Atomizer Drone a success.

The dark figure was soon left alone in his seat, his hands pressed together, and his chin resting on the top of them. He chuckled darkly, as he had ulterior motives for this new project Mann had proposed.

Years after its construction, the scene before Mann displayed Copper 9's newly built nuclear power plant. An impressive feat of engineering, the facility towered over the barren exoplanet, its sleek design gleaming in the harsh sunlight.

Hundreds of workers bustled about the factory, their neon-yellow safety suits and helmets creating a sea of activity. Large cranes moved heavy machinery into place, while workers scurried about, welding metal plates onto the massive pipes that snaked their way into the plant.

Amidst the commotion, Mann sat alone in one of the facility's small offices, his eyes glued to the computer screen before him. His fingers flew over the keyboard, typing in a frenzy as lines of code scrolled down the monitor. A yellow sticky note, bearing the simple word "Humanity," clung to the edge of the screen, a testament to Mann's ultimate goal.

But despite his focus, Mann was in distress. He muttered under his breath, his eyes shut tight in concentration.

"He doesn't know that I know... He wants to use it for something else... I have to stop it somehow..." His voice trailed off, the weight of his burden evident in the strained tone.

Mann had discovered a terrible secret. The higher-ups at JCJenson, the powerful conglomerate that owned the Copper 9 plant, were planning to use the newly developed Worker Drones as a weapon of mass destruction.

The Atomizer Drones' nanotechnology, combined with the plant's radioactive energy, would create a devastating force capable of destroying entire cities.

Horror and determination flashed in Mann's eyes. He knew he had to act fast. He had spent countless hours devising a plan to prevent the project from proceeding any further.

The first measure was a kill-switch that would wipe out all data regarding the project. Mann had coded it into all the facility's computers, and with a single press of a button, all the data would be destroyed.

The second measure was to seize all the funding needed to build the project's central power plant. Mann had made sure that the money was inaccessible to the JCJenson higher-ups who were eager to move forward with their diabolical plan.

But the most drastic measure was yet to come. Mann had built a drill containing an atomic bomb that would dig its way towards the Copper 9 plant and detonate once it reached the center.

The explosion would destroy the nuclear power plant, killing all those working on the project, including himself.

Mann knew he wouldn't be able to escape, but he was determined to take out as many of the enemy as he could. He took a deep breath and pressed the kill switch. As expected, all the data regarding the project was instantly wiped out, leaving the facility's computers dead and silent.

Back at JCJenson, backups of the data were infected with a virus that caused them to self-destruct, ensuring that there would be no traces of the project's existence left behind.

Mann looked at the monitor, smiling with relief. The drill had activated and was descending towards Copper 9's core.

Mann sat back in his chair, knowing that these were his final moments alive. "Well then, here I go..." He said, accepting his fate.

The drill neared the center of the planet, and the atomic bomb began to glow. The explosion shook the entire exoplanet, and deadly clouds of radioactive toxins spread through the sky.

Even with radioactive isolation suits, the humans had lost any means of transport back to Earth, so it was only a matter of time before they succumbed to the toxic fumes without oxygen tanks.

In just a few hours, the facility was barren of life, and Copper 9 had become a lifeless, winter-struck wasteland. Only the factories and structures remained, freezing over time, with uranium still running through the deactivated pipes. Faint glows of green filled the deserted building, every once in a while flickering out...