Chapter 9: Italica Reformation

-M29.671. Falmart. Italica-

Colt Formal found himself immersed in the holographic glow of the documents spread across his desk, courtesy of UR-982. His gaze remained unwavering, a stark contrast to a time when processing such volumes of information would have posed a challenge. Since receiving the Emperor's Anathematic energy, however, such concerns had become obsolete.

Italica's metamorphosis under the Imperium's influence lingered in Colt's memory. While the city had been prosperous due to its strategic position as a trading hub in Falmart, challenges persisted.

Prostitution and inequality had long plagued Italica, issues that had persisted through the reigns of his father and grandfather.

Seated at his desk, Colt Formal's eyes remained fixed on the holovid that had been glowing for who knows how long. He delved into dozens of documents presented by UR-982. The Colt Formal of the past would have struggled to process such a quantity of documents, but since the Emperor blessed him with Anathematic energy, it was no longer a concern.

Italica underwent a massive transformation since the arrival of the Imperium. Colt recalled the conditions of Italica. Indeed, Italica was a wealthy city due to its strategic location as a trade center in Falmart, but not everything ran smoothly.

Prostitution and inequality were major issues in Italica, persisting since his father and grandfather's rule.

However, now everything had changed. Thanks to the resources and power from the Imperium, what he once considered impossible was easily achievable. Deadly diseases vanished, illiteracy was eradicated, and the Template Coordinators successfully transformed every citizen into the foundation of transhumanism. Italica's economy soared, gaining independence through Imperium's technology.

Having addressed domestic affairs, Colt Formal shifted his focus to foreign matters. The Imperium's presence in Italica attracted attention from all directions, and rumors of a city reaching the sky with a flying fortress above it spread like wildfire.

Gradually but surely, hundreds of refugees and immigrants entered Italica since the Imperium declared the entire region as their territory. Each individual among them received care and scrutiny.

Luck has been on Imperium's side so far; there hasn't been a hint of the Great Enemy's presence. Yet, concealed within those documents, lies another secret, unraveling the true nature of Falmart's false gods. Colt yearned to delve deeper into the contents, but unfortunately, further access has been denied for him.

When he sought permission to explore this information, the agent of the Sigillite insisted that now wasn't the opportune moment.

Setting aside these weighty matters, Colt still carried a personal obligation to his family. Myui remained too young, and the profound changes in recent weeks had a significant impact on her. Despite the formidable power of the Coordinator at her disposal, she couldn't ignore the overwhelming nature of everything happening around her.

Speaking of Myui, it was time to meet with her.A soft knock resonated, breaking the rhythm of Colt Formal's immersion in holographic documents that had been glowing for an indefinite period. The door stood between him and the voice of Myui.

"Father, it's me," Myui's voice filtered through the door.

"Come in," Colt responded.

The door gracefully opened, revealing Myui adorned in a gothic-themed dress, seamlessly blending with the Imperium's cultural aesthetics. Despite the dress's elegance, Myui wore it with ease. The fusion of skin suit technology with the intricate design of the gothic dress created a unique and captivating fashion statement that spanned across eras—a signature style of the Imperium.

"Did you summon me, Father?" Myui inquired softly.

"Yes," Colt replied. "I wish to discuss the Imperium with you."

Myui nodded in understanding. Colt strolled towards the balcony in his workspace, where he could oversee the metamorphosis of Italica from a town of stone and wood to a city adorned with adamantium structures. Myui, following closely behind her father, observed what had captured his attention.

"What do you see, Myui?" Colt queried with a measured tone.

Myui hesitated before responding. She chose to scrutinize Italica more intently, thanks to the genetic enhancements from the Coordinator, granting her clarity in perceiving every detail.

Having grown up on the streets of Italica, the city before her eyes was now unrecognizable—both in terms of its architecture and its inhabitants. Everything felt alien and unfamiliar to the daughter of the Formal family. However, amidst the transformation, one constant remained: the joyful and hopeful expressions on the faces of the people of Italica, whether human or demi-human. Myui discerned the happiness radiating from everyone, a joy that appeared to be spreading even more widely than before.

Myui's response hung in the air, a soft admission of happiness that gradually shifted to a more subdued tone. "But, for some reason, it doesn't feel like Italica anymore."

Colt Formal absorbed the sentiment in Myui's words. The city of Italica had undergone a profound transformation in its structures and populace. Yet, he felt a surge of pride, recognizing that his daughter could discern common threads amid the apparent disparities.

A warm smile played on Colt's lips. "What makes you think this isn't Italica anymore, Myui?"

Taking a moment to carefully select her words, Myui contemplated, "Everything is different. The buildings, the culture, and even the clothes I wear now are dramatically changed."

Colt experienced a rush of emotions, reflecting on the collapse of a nation under Sadera's invasion. He had witnessed the metamorphosis of the land and its people—a mixture of smiles and sorrow. Sadera introduced civilization to the once-barbaric tribes, but it also brought its own set of problems, notably the issue of demi-human slavery.

In the initial stages, Colt struggled to comprehend the events that unfolded. Nonetheless, he resisted by establishing specific rules in Italica, asserting equality and shared rights and responsibilities among the city's residents, irrespective of their nature.

His understanding, at first, was intuitive, neither more nor less. However, everything changed when he found himself in the Imperium, interacting with the scholars.

It was within the Imperium that Colt discovered his answers.

"Care to accompany me for a stroll?" Colt invited with a soft smile.

"Where to, Father?"

"You'll find out," Colt replied casually.

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A child awoke from their slumber, glancing around the room that had undergone a drastic transformation. The familiar wooden walls had been replaced by futuristic blue metal. Usually, the child took great care of their father's sword, feeling the warmth when polishing it during winter. However, a slight concern crept in when thinking about whether the new metal room would make it cold.

Yet, those worries quickly dissipated when envoys from the Imperium provided guidance on how his new home operated. A gothically dressed representative became the caretaker of the environmental administration, offering instructions to the family about various technologies and new features bestowed by the Imperium.

The information received by the child opened a myriad of possibilities in his subconscious. He learned how to adjust the room temperature to his liking, transform the table into various objects for play, and witness the room's ceiling change according to the appearance of the sky they desired. Just yesterday, he discovered that they could change the walls of his room into anything their imagination desired.

Truly, this room was his paradise.

"Food is ready, dear," the gentle voice of his mother resonated through the light screen on their study desk, displaying a warm smile from the kitchen.

"Alright, Mom." The child smiled happily before running towards one corner of his room. With a speed surpassing the eye, the wall suddenly collapsed, forming a door in front of them. With a single step outside, the metal wall automatically closed. Initially, there was awe and a hint of fear, but after a few days, he became accustomed to it.

The landscape of his home also underwent a total transformation. The wooden house turned into a structure of steel combined with exotic crystals. He couldn't count how many times they felt enchanted by the beauty of his new home.

In the heart of the kitchen, the young lad found his parents waiting. His father, sipping on a comforting cup of coffee, wore a peaceful smile. The boy vividly remembered the haunting images of his father's struggle during the dark days of the Italica siege—crimson bandages wrapped around his hands and face, a stark testament to the loss of both hand and sight. It was a fate that should have sealed his father's future.

Yet, the arrival of the Imperium changed everything. In a miraculous twist, his father was restored to his former vitality, as if the shadows of tragedy had never touched him. When they tried to express their gratitude, the Imperium representatives graciously refused any repayment, offering their invaluable assistance with open hearts.

The young boy eagerly settled into his chair, brimming with anticipation for the feast that awaited him. His eyes lit up with joy as the irresistible scent of the morning meal enveloped him, triggering an uncontrollable surge of saliva. His mother, already a skilled food vendor in Italica, had her culinary prowess elevated to new heights by the enchantment of the Imperium.

"Breakfast is served!" His mother's announcement echoed through the room, accompanied by the entrance of an automaton bearing a grand tray adorned with a delectable spread. From succulent meats to flavorful soup and aromatic bread, each dish seemed to exude an irresistible honeyed essence.

With swift movements, every family member gathered around, taking their seats in eager anticipation of the culinary delight before them. Thanks to the wondrous gifts of the Coordinator template, the family now possessed the ability to devour heartier portions, enhancing their capacity to savor each bite efficiently. Moreover, the revelation that their metabolisms had been fine-tuned for optimal performance added an extra layer of marvel to the dining experience.

For the young boy, this meant relishing double portions of his meal while effortlessly maintaining a healthy and slender physique. The breakfast table transformed into a scene of delight and satisfaction, a testament to the magical enhancements brought by the Imperium.

The aroma of the feast quickly vanished as his family devoured every dish, leaving behind satisfied smiles and a sense of shared joy.

"Oh, by the way," his mother interjected, "could you take that little gift to the landlady?"

"But Mom, she doesn't really need food, does she?" The young boy queried, a hint of confusion creasing his brow.

"She may not need it, but she can still appreciate it. Just drop it off," his mother replied, a patient smile on her face.

With a sigh, the young boy acquiesced, transforming his expression into a determined smile. "Alright, Mom."

"Smart move," complimented his brown-haired mother. "Now, get refreshed. Don't keep her waiting."

_______________________

The young boy ambled down the adamantium-clad streets with a lively tune escaping his lips. The bustling thoroughfare surrounded him with a sea of familiar faces, all sharing in the buoyant atmosphere.

"Morning, Mr. Hule!" he called out to a nearby meat vendor.

"Ah, good morning!" responded the vendor with a friendly wave.

"Morning, Mrs. Catarina!" he greeted another figure, this time a vendor selling vibrant flowers.

"Good morning. Be careful on the road!"

Continuing his journey, the young boy extended warm greetings to everyone he encountered, his infectious smile spreading positive vibes along the way.

Each person he acknowledged held a story—friends of his parents, parents of his friends. Their transformation since the arrival of the Imperium was etched vividly in his memory.

He witnessed how those who lost their jobs could find employment again. Some of those his father referred to as night acrobats had returned to regular jobs like those around them. He also recognized some of the children of those people. Most were much younger than him, but they could smile more

As he approached a towering building in his district, the anticipation of what awaited inside filled the air.

The young lad poised to place his hand on the adamantium door when a faint hiss interrupted him. With a sleek motion, the silver door swung open, revealing an alluring woman adorned in a black gothic dress. Her presence emanated a frigid aura, reminiscent of iron, and lacked any trace of human sentiment. White as snow, her hair added an otherworldly touch to her figure.

"I anticipated your arrival," the stunning yet aloof woman uttered flatly.

"Miss Sara, I've got a little something from my mom for you!" the child chimed in, a wide smile accompanying his outstretched hands holding the gift.

Sara, the automaton, sighed leisurely as she accepted the offering. However, a smile eluded her. "Thank you."

The young boy pouted, gazing at Sara with a dissatisfied expression. Despite being an automaton, a subtle inclination within the young boy yearned to see a smile on Sara's face.

"Come on, Sara, let's see that smile!" the kid encouraged.

"I find it unnecessary," replied Sara impassively. "Nevertheless, I appreciate your thoughtful gift."

"But emotions are meant to be expressed! Happiness deserves a spotlight!" retorted the boy, his brow furrowed in determination.

"Fine, have it your way." Then, Sara's eyes ignited in a brilliant blue glow, signifying her reception of data from the Noosphere. The boy strained to catch a glimpse of the process, a fraction of a second that would be imperceptible without the Coordinator's power.

"What's happening, Sara?" inquired the boy.

"Lord Colt Formal is on his way." Sara turned to him with a sly grin. "Seems like there's a little task waiting for you."

The young lad scratched his head, trying to decipher the mysterious vibes emanating from the automaton. Soon, the dynamic duo of Colt Formal and his daughter graced the scene. It was the lad's inaugural close encounter with the formidable Formals. As he glanced toward Myui, the girl nonchalantly looked the other way.

"Lord Formal," Sara greeted with a touch of elegance, bowing gracefully.

"Sara," Colt nodded, acknowledging her presence.

The young boy tilted his head slightly, perplexed by the enigmatic atmosphere surrounding the automaton.

_____________________________________________________________________

Before long, the figures of Colt Formal and his daughter emerged. It was the lad's first close encounter with the Formal family. As he shifted his gaze toward Myui, the girl averted her face.

"Lord Formal," Sara greeted softly, gracefully bowing her body.

"Sara," Colt nodded in acknowledgment.

"Is there anything I can assist you with, milord?" Sara inquired, shooting a polite smile at the duo from the Formal clan.

Colt slyly motioned for Myui to take the stage. The daughter of Formal gracefully stepped forward, performing a bow fit for nobility.

"Greetings, Lady Sara," Myui chimed in with a dash of gentle sophistication.

The boy observed Myui's radiant charm. Unbeknownst to him, his cheeks started to heat up. Swiftly averting his gaze, he made sure Lady Myui remained blissfully unaware of the blush.

"Greetings, Lady Myui," Sara replied, throwing in a courteous smile.

With the formalities jazzed up, Colt took center stage, placing a guiding hand on his daughter's shoulder. Myui shot her father a puzzled look, and a subtle cue from Sara left the Formal girl even more intrigued.

"I will instruct you to conduct a tour and participatory observation, Lady Myui," the automaton declared.

"Oh... I see. In that case, I will be in your care, Sara." Myui responded, but Sara chuckled softly.

"I'm here as just an observer, Lady Myui," Sara clarified, flashing a mischievous grin. Myui responded with a quizzical head tilt.

"Because this young maestro here will be your actual guidesman," Sara added, gazing at the young boy, who now found himself awkwardly thrust into the spotlight.

The boy stood there, utterly flabbergasted, the words echoing in his ears causing an unexpected rush of embarrassment and a mysterious fluttering in his heart.

Myui, caught off guard herself, noticed the boy's evident bewilderment. Although he wanted to protest and clarify his intentions to the automaton, the Head of the Formal family's smile extinguished any such inclination.

"If it's not an inconvenience, I'd appreciate your guidance," Myui stated slowly, aiming for utmost politeness without overtly signaling the boy's possible rejection.

"O-Of course!" the boy responded hastily. "I'll do my best for you, milady."

Colt Formal maintained his smile, seemingly content with the boy's swift agreement. Unbeknownst to the lad, Colt had communicated his plan to Sara using UR-982, leveraging the unique mental capacities granted by the Emperor of Mankind. Internally, Colt scoffed at the absurdity of comparing himself, even a Solar Guardian, to the Magistratus—a vast difference akin to that between a mortal and a Solar Guardian.

Shaking off these musings, Colt's gaze shifted to his daughter, a genuine smile gracing his face. Of all his children, Myui bore the closest resemblance to her mother, Olia Formal.

"Now, let me provide you with instructions and observe from a distance. Don't worry; if any threat approaches, I'll ensure your safety, milady," Sara assured, a seemingly deadpan expression transforming into a subtle smirk, perceptible to Colt's discerning eye.

"Ummm... Where are the instructions?" the boy inquired innocently, prompting Sara to tap his forehead.

A spark of psychic energy glowed on the boy's skin as information was transmitted. Thanks to his Coordinator modifications, he withstood the strain of the overwhelming data.

"Well... I can handle it. Leave it to me," the lad declared with newfound determination.

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Myui found herself immersed in an unfamiliar experience as they embarked on what she deemed "actual participatory observation." They engaged directly with the locals, offering assistance and observing from a closer vantage point.

A peculiar sentiment enveloped Myui in this transformed Italica. She gleaned valuable insights from the experience, witnessing smiles and laughter, the existence of pubs and various forms of entertainment. Despite the alterations, the people remained the same. Even as newly modified beings, they retained their essence as the people of Italica.

After hours of engagement, they took a break. Myui sat beside the boy, a specially crafted drink in her hand replenishing all her electrolytes.

"Now I've got a clear picture of my mission," declared the boy with a warm smile.

"What do you mean?" Myui inquired, her head tilted in confusion.

The boy simply grinned and strode confidently down a specific path. "Follow me, milady."

They left their original spot and soon arrived at the bustling city square, a melting pot of people from both the Imperium and Falmart. A warmth enveloped the youngest member of the Formal household, a sentiment echoing a familiar feeling. Throughout her life, Myui had loved her people, but it had always been a distant affection. She observed them from a distance, occasionally taking short walks to inspect her father's governed city.

The city, embodying living traditions and paramount values, was a beacon of progress within the vast Saderan Empire. It served as the first haven where races could live harmoniously. Yet, the recent encounters with her people added a new layer to her understanding. Everything felt alien—new buildings, a different culture, and changed people. The Italica of old seemed to vanish before her eyes, yet the lingering sentiment persisted.

"What did you see, milady?" the boy asked, a perpetual smile on his face.

Myui took a moment to reflect. Despite her enhanced mind, grasping the true meaning behind the kind lad's words proved challenging. She didn't want to offer an empty response. Instead, she spoke with sincerity.

"I see my people. After our tour, I witnessed a transformed Italica. However, I can't fully describe the emotions stirred when observing their interactions. It's... Different, yet they remain the people I love," Myui admitted, navigating the realms of uncertainty and confusion.

The boy's smile softened. "When I first saw my place changed, I felt the same way. My parents are slightly different. Perhaps I am too. But change is necessary for survival, milady. It all depends on how individuals define comfort."

"What do you mean?"

"I read a book from the Imperium. It's about a ship that was wrecked and repaired multiple times. The broken planks were then used to construct another ship. Now, which one is the real ship?" The boy posed a surprisingly philosophical question for his age.

"It depends on us," Myui responded thoughtfully. "It depends on how comfortable we are with our thoughts."

"That's the point," the boy affirmed with a smile. "Your people may change, but their essence remains. They are still Italica people at their core. History may continue and fade, but as long as we uphold the universal belief in humanity, we'll be fine. At least, that's what the Imperial Truth has taught me."

Myui found his answer fascinating, yet she sensed something amiss. "I understand your point and appreciate it, but there's a flaw in your analogy."

The boy seemed to realize it, wincing in the process. "Ha...Hahahaha..."

Myui smiled tenderly at him. "What's your name? I haven't learned it yet."

"Augustus. My name is Felix Augustus."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Augustus," Myui smiled, extending her arm. "I hope we can become friends."

"Yeah, so do I," the boy agreed, accepting her handshake.

(An: It make me wonder because there is a person asking me about this AU Warhammer x Halo. Well. I know that I don't fully uncover Imperium's true might, thus causing the powerscale is still up to imagination. But, I would love to hear you guys idea of this crossover and its plot. Feel free to give your idea.)