Vol 2. Chapter 8: Signs of a New Species of Monster
The Multi-Legged Walker Prototype 1 (WP1) drove stakes from the tips of its six legs into the ground, anchoring itself securely. It then deftly manipulated its work arms, deploying a geological survey drill and sampling apparatus.
The three WP1 units were conducting geological surveys at the fortress construction site. For areas where underground structures were planned, deeper vertical shafts would need to be excavated for assessment. However, for temporary warehouses, basic airstrips, or road construction, the WP1’s lightweight drilling and boring equipment sufficed. Two units focused on drilling while the third assisted with sample collection. The retrieved samples were currently being stockpiled along the coastline, awaiting transport to the construction ship once the pier connection was complete.
The blackened, barren ground, devoid of vegetation, was dotted with these gleaming silver machines. Their busy movements and constantly working arms gave a somewhat comedic impression—from a distance, at least.
Up close, however, their sheer size—4 meters tall and over 10 meters wide and long—would likely evoke a primal fear. Their eerily smooth, almost organic movements heightened this effect. For now, the noise of the gas turbine engines powering them added an audible reminder of their mechanical nature, but once they were retrofitted with the quieter microwave power system, they would become even more unnerving.
“So, you said there’s something unusual?”
“Yes, ma’am,” Ringo responded.
Eve had been quietly watching the WP1 units at work, but the reminder prompted her to turn her attention back to the report.
“During the drilling surveys, we’ve identified layers of tunnel-like structures intersecting the strata. These tunnels range in diameter from a few centimeters to several dozen centimeters. These formations are not consistent with natural geological phenomena, so they are likely the result of biological activity.”
“...In solid volcanic rock?”
“Yes, ma’am.”
“Just to confirm, the rock isn’t unusually brittle, is it?”
“No, ma’am. It’s standard volcanic rock. While there are regions with pumice-like structures, it’s still solid rock.”