The vision Takes Form

Edwin stood in his workshop, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. The resources he had meticulously acquired now filled the storage area—enough to construct 200 silver-rank mechanical knights and a single gold-rank knight. The potential was staggering, but Edwin wasn't one to rush. Precision and planning were his watchwords.

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Stacks of alloy ingots, rare metals, and organic materials were neatly organized, ready for use. Among the piles, the rare silver and gold alloys gleamed under the workshop lights. These were specially crafted to provide both durability and flexibility—perfect for constructing armor capable of adapting to various combat scenarios.

Edwin picked up a piece of the white alloy he had engineered. When activated, the material would emit a faint, ethereal glow, akin to nano-machine armors he had once read about in ancient texts. Unlike conventional plating, this material could self-repair minor damage, absorb a small percentage of kinetic force, and provide superior insulation against elemental attacks.

"This will be the standard for my army," Edwin murmured, running a hand over the cold surface.

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Edwin began drafting designs for the knights. Each silver-rank mechanical knight would stand roughly 7 feet tall, with sleek, white-painted armor that gave them an almost spectral appearance. The segmented plating would allow for agility, while the reinforced joints ensured durability in prolonged battles.

The gold-rank knight, however, was an entirely different beast. Standing at nearly 10 feet tall, it would be a fortress on legs, equipped with advanced weaponry and layered defenses. Its armor would feature additional energy channels to enhance combat efficiency and output.

"AI," Edwin said, gesturing toward the holographic interface. "Start simulations for the construction process. I want a production sequence optimized for speed without sacrificing quality."

**"Simulations underway. Estimated completion time: two hours,"** the AI responded.

Edwin leaned back, studying the projections on the screen. Every detail, from the knights' weapons to their internal energy cores, had to be flawless. The silver knights would serve as his vanguard, versatile and reliable, while the gold knight would act as the cornerstone of his personal force—a symbol of his ingenuity and strength.

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Before committing to full-scale production, Edwin decided to test the white alloy. He crafted a small prototype—a forearm guard—and subjected it to various stress tests.

"AI, initiate impact test at 300% of a silver knight's expected combat force," Edwin ordered.

A mechanical arm slammed into the prototype with immense force. The alloy flexed slightly but remained intact, the faint glow of its self-repair system activating.

"Excellent," Edwin muttered. "Now for elemental resistance. Simulate fire and frost exposure at extreme levels."

The alloy endured intense flames and freezing conditions without losing structural integrity. Satisfied, Edwin moved to the next phase.

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With the alloy and designs finalized, Edwin began the painstaking process of assembling the knights. The AI-controlled machinery in his workshop worked in perfect harmony, guided by Edwin's precise instructions. The frames of the silver knights took shape first, their white-painted armor gleaming under the workshop's lights.

For the gold knight, Edwin took a more hands-on approach. He carefully calibrated the energy core, embedding it with rare runes that enhanced its efficiency. The armor was thicker and more intricate, with layers designed to adapt to various forms of damage.

Hours turned into days as the workshop became a hive of activity. Edwin worked tirelessly, ensuring every component met his exacting standards. The AI reported progress at regular intervals, but Edwin refused to let his guard down. A single mistake could compromise the entire project.

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After days of relentless effort, the first batch of 20 silver knights was complete. They stood in formation within the workshop, their white armor exuding a quiet menace. Edwin activated them one by one, watching as their systems came online.

Each knight moved with precision, their glowing runes a testament to the energy coursing through them. They performed a series of combat drills, their strikes sharp and coordinated.

"Combat efficiency at 93%," the AI reported.

Edwin nodded, satisfied. "Good. Begin preparing the next batch. I want all 200 silver knights operational within the."

---

As Edwin stood before his creations, he felt a sense of quiet pride. These knights weren't just tools—they were a reflection of his vision and determination. He wasn't building an army for conquest or power; he was building a shield, a force that would protect his independence and safeguard his secrets.

The gold knight's frame loomed in the background, still incomplete. It would take more time and effort, but Edwin wasn't worried. He had patience, resources, and an unwavering focus.

For now, his vanguard was taking shape.