Work Text:
The Cosmic Engineer, hard at work, tinkers on ever-expanding machines, each more elaborate, intricate, and efficient than the previous. In the downtime between construction, he browses terabytes of data on the latest battles of his magnum opus, their successes and shortcomings.
A ray of light shines down the center of his lab, onto a small tree which holds a single apple. It has a many a protection layered over it, in this space which barely anyone knows if.
“At it again? You know that most who request the services highest in demand eventually fall to the folly of their actions.”
A shadowy figure spoke from the dark corners of the laboratory, and as Draedon glances towards it, two familiar gleaming yellow eyes can be seen.
“Since coming here, there have been many new materials to work with. Such great varieties there are that I cannot hope to recreate them without a sizable sample, and if I can obtain them through the marketing of my services, all the better. Most of what I’ve gotten is unable to be harvested in this place. The Cycle has looped many a time, and shall continue onwards unless one may put their foot down: You know as well as I that this is unlikely to happen. Your company is appreciated, however much your disdain for being affects you.”
The robot speaks, its chassis blinking.
“Our contract holds firm, and your assistance much appreciated. Do you envision a time where stability stays for good, or are we destined for chaos?
Either way, we shall do as needs must. I look forward towards our next agreement. Balance must be upheld, and you know this more than most.”
When Draedon looks once more, it has gone, the only hint of its appearance being some disturbed particles of dust where it once stood.
“To our next encounter indeed.”
The Cosmic Engineer sent out various holographic projections of itself to all those who wish to challenge its machines, arriving in due time.