A Path To Omniscience

What was the most valuable form of technology in the world?

Was it Dust-Infused Weaponry? Specialized ammunition that gave even the crudest bullets the power to burst through solid concrete or set targets ablaze on impact. Go a step further, and you could infuse dust into the very abilities of Huntsmen and Huntresses, their semblances, boosting their already inhuman capabilities.

Or perhaps it was Airships. They weren't just the most reliable form of transportation for people and cargo; they also gave humanity a crucial edge in the endless war against the Grimm. With air superiority, humans could spot and eliminate Grimm from a distance, avoiding direct risks. Even the few Grimm that could fly stood no chance against a fleet of gunships.

Maybe, though, it was hard-light technology. Developed in Atlas, it allowed for interactive tech—like screen displays, holographic control panels, and models—all thanks to the combination of Hard-light dust and technology.

The defensive and offensive uses were no small matter either. Large and small-scale protective barriers were only possible through hard light, letting humanity create solid constructs out of light-based energy. Most laser-based weaponry also relied on this tech, providing a less finite alternative to regular ammo.

So, which one was the most important? Was it one of these three, or perhaps something else?

Androids were advancing fast, improving in intelligence and usability both in and out of combat. They could handle tasks too dangerous for humans, reducing the risk of death in the field. Eventually, wars might be fought without people risking their lives at all.

Asher sat in his rotating rolling chair, staring up at the ceiling of his new workshop, considering this question, and in the end, he came to one conclusion. None of them were the most valuable form of technology. 

No... the most valuable form of technology in the world is the technology that keeps humanity informed. The Cross Continental Transmit System (CCT) is probably the greatest example of that, in my opinion. It allowed for wireless, instant long-distance communication across the entire planet. Given that dust doesn't function outside the atmosphere, making satellites nearly impossible, the CCTS solution was the greatest hurdle the people of Remnant ever overcame.

There were only four primary relay towers in the entire world, and only when all four were active did the system work. Before the CCT, communication between kingdoms was impossible, and even within the same kingdom, it was a struggle.

But by far, humanity's greatest strength—and greatest weakness—is our reliance on that very same CCT System. Taking my family's cargo ships, for example, they were attacked, but we knew nothing until they reached the harbor. All because long-distance communication wasn't feasible without being near a CCT tower or a relay tower that could amplify their signal.

That wasn't an issue on land, within the borders of the kingdom where relay towers can be built freely, but out at sea, it was another story entirely. Most autonomous robots and androids relied on the CCT network and would go offline once they were out of range unless they were programmed with onboard intelligence.

Long-distance travel in this world was an enormous risk for that very reason. But what was the alternative? Asher thought about this while brainstorming blueprint ideas. Even if he didn't have a solution to the communication issue, there had to be a way to increase humanity's ability to gather intelligence.

A way to monitor and survey long-distance areas without relying on the CCT System.

That's definitely something that would attract Atlas Academies' attention.

With that thought, Asher sat up in his chair before rolling over to his desk and beginning to rapidly type on the holographic keyboard in front of him. He quickly created a new file on the computer, linked it to the network his Optical Interface Terminal was on, and named the folder [Project: Spectre Unit]. 

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June 21st, 2033

"When we arrive, I don't want either of you speaking unless spoken to. Understood?" Jacques' voice was sharp, his eyes narrowing as they flicked between Weiss and Whitley, seated across from him.

"It's already humiliating enough that your mother is too busy drowning herself in alcohol to join us, and your sister-"

He paused to scoff, "Is apparently too busy ignoring her own family to bother attending with us. So once again, as always, I'll have to manage everything myself."

"Yes, Father," Weiss and Whitley responded, nodding solemnly. The three of them sat in the back of the limousine, the distance between them doing nothing to ease the tension. The silence from Weiss and Whitley, coupled with the simmering frustration radiating from Jacques, made the air feel stifling.

Jacques glanced out the rear window, his gaze sweeping over the neighborhood. The limousine cruised through an area filled with sprawling estates, each one a testament to the wealth of Atlas's upper class. While none of the properties compared to the Schnee manor, Jacques couldn't help but comment.

"Fascinating how the Frostvale family has managed to climb so high in just over a single generation. It goes to show there are still a few people in this city worth conducting business with," he said as his gaze shifted to Whitley.

"Did you memorize the information I had sent you?" Jacques asked, his tone stern as he leveled a hard stare at his son.

Whitley straightened under his father's gaze.

"Yes, Father. I've studied Frostvale Enterprises' history thoroughly. I'm confident I can hold my own in any conversation that comes up," he replied, offering a confident smile. Jacques, however, remained unimpressed, his attention turning to Weiss.

"And you. Did you follow through with my instructions?"

Weiss nodded slowly, her voice steady but cautious. "Yes, Father, but I don't-"

"Well, I'm afraid, unlike everything else, this isn't about you," Jacques interrupted, sneering.

"Your opinions on this are irrelevant. You and Whitley's only goal will be to get as close to the Frostvale heir as you can. He seems competent enough for a child, so the sooner the three of you are on friendly terms, the better. It will position us favorably for future dealings when the reigns are passed along."

His voice shifted into a more business-like tone after that as he continued, "Frostvale Enterprises is one of the largest logistics companies in Atlas. If we can secure this contract, not only will they lower their transport rates below what we're paying our current providers, but their Dust Containment Airships have a much higher capacity than the ones we're currently using. This deal could increase our monthly dust throughput by over eight percent."

Jacques' voice dropped an octave, his gaze fixing on Weiss.

"We can't afford for this deal to fall through. You'll do exactly as you've been told. Is that clear?"

Weiss hesitated. She was used to getting close to people under her father's orders to help the company, but it didn't mean she liked doing it. Eventually, however, under her father's glare, she gave a slight nod. Jacques' stern expression softened as a smile tugged at the corners of his mouth, and he stroked his mustache, satisfied.

"Good."

Soon, the Schnee Family arrived at the gates of Frostvale Manor. Through the iron bars, the expansive front yard sprawled out, nearly ten thousand square meters of meticulously manicured land. Everything—from the trees lining the winding road up to the grand entrance to the perfectly trimmed hedges surrounding the property—was placed with precision and care.

The environment stood in stark contrast to the typically cold, harsh landscape of Atlas. If one looked closely enough, they could even spot wildlife rarely found in the region, making the manor feel almost like an oasis.

Jacques remained indifferent to the view, but Weiss and Whitley couldn't help but gaze out of their windows in quiet wonder. Weiss, in particular, couldn't help but compare it to her own home.

It's so different from Mother's Garden. Even there, the animals she kept there were in cages...

Their white limousine came to a smooth stop at the base of twin staircases leading to the manor's entrance. Already waiting for them were Vance and Nillia Frostvale, flanked by an older man dressed in a butler's uniform, standing with impeccable posture.

Jacques exited the car first, a smile instantly spreading across his face as he greeted the couple.

"Vance, Nillia, thank you for coming out to greet us."

"Of course, we wouldn't be good hosts otherwise," Nillia replied with a warm, gentle smile. Vance nodded in agreement as he spotted Weiss and Whitley stepping out of the car as well.

"Oh? I don't see your wife with you," Vance remarked, though the question was more rhetorical than curious. Jacques' smile faltered momentarily before he recovered, laughing off the comment.

"She's... preoccupied with other matters," Jacques said lightly. Both Vance and Nillia shared a brief look of polite disappointment before Vance shifted the conversation with a small joke.

"I see. Well, I suppose the chefs will be relieved. One less mouth to cook for."

Jacques let out a laugh at that, while Weiss and Whitley remained silent, familiar with exactly how things worked in this circle. They knew both the Frostvale's words and their fathers were nothing more than the usual pleasantries exchanged before real business was discussed over dinner.

"And it's wonderful to see you two again as well," Nillia said, turning her attention to the siblings.

"My son Asher spoke highly of you both after we left." Weiss and Whitley seemed to straighten a bit at the mention of Asher; their interest piqued.

"Speaking of which, I don't see him here," Jacques noted.

Nillia chuckled softly at that.

"After your daughter's party—which was lovely, by the way—he's taken up a new hobby and has been very dedicated to it. We thought it best not to pull him away too forcefully."

Jacques raised a hand dismissively.

"Oh, that's perfectly fine. Children should have hobbies; it helps them... develop." Weiss glanced at her father out of the corner of her eye.

Does he even believe half of what he says?

"Well, let's not stand out here all day," Vance said, gesturing toward the stairs.

"Please, come in."

The Frostvales led the way up the stairs, followed by Jacques, Weiss, and Whitley, with the butler quietly bringing up the rear. As they entered the manor, a line of maids stood ready to take their coats.

"Dinner will take some time to prepare," Vance said as they walked deeper into the house.

"In the meantime, would you like to join us in the living room?"

Jacques nodded eagerly, falling into easy conversation with Vance and Nillia as they continued down the hall. The group eventually arrived at an open doorway leading into a spacious living room, one that took advantage of the manor's size. The ceiling stretched higher than normal, taking up part of the second floor and causing it to feel grand.

Floor-to-ceiling windows lined the far wall, offering a perfect view of the sprawling backyard. The sunlight streaming through was softened, filtering into the room in a way that made the space feel a bit more inviting than cold. Sleek, modern sectional sofas were arranged in a wide arc around a central table, where they all took their seats.

A roaring fireplace crackled nearby, its warmth complementing the atmosphere, while potted plants were placed around the room, adding a touch of greenery to the whole scene.

"Your family seems quite fond of plants," Jacques observed as he glanced around the living room, feigning admiration as his eyes lingered on the decor.

"Ah, well, I can't take credit for that," Vance replied with a chuckle.

"My wife handled the design of most of the rooms in the manor—or at least the ones we actually use."

"I don't have plants in every room," Nillia added with a smile, "but I do believe the right greenery can make a space feel more inviting. Each room has plants from different regions around the world to give them a unique atmosphere."

Jacques nodded; his interest piqued.

"Is that so? Perhaps I should consider doing something similar in my office. As much as I enjoy the wood paneling, it can feel a bit... dull at times."

Vance smirked at that.

"We get that. Although bland offices do seem to be the most productive. Less distraction."

Jacques chuckled, giving a nod.

"Oh, I can certainly agree with that." The small talk continued until Vance shifted the topic.

"So, Jacques, are you more of a wine man or do you prefer spirits?"

Jacques paused, placing a hand thoughtfully on his chin.

"I do enjoy a drink now and then, though I tend to save them for special occasions. Wine works best when I want to keep my mind clear."

"Wine it is, then," Nillia said, turning her attention to Weiss and Whitley with a warm, motherly smile.

"What about you two? Thirsty?" Her demeanor, along with the question, seemed to catch both Weiss and Whitley off guard. Typically, they were ignored for the most part during meetings like this, only being spoken to when they were brought up in a conversation. They exchanged a glance before looking at their father, who gave them a slight nod.

"Water will be fine," Whitley answered politely.

Weiss hesitated for a moment before echoing the same.

"Yes, water for me as well."

Nillia raised an eyebrow but smiled kindly.

"Of course." She turned to Lionel, who had been quietly standing nearby with his usual passive expression.

"Would you bring us three wine glasses and a bottle of Elysian Frost, please?"

Lionel bowed slightly. "Of course, madam."

Before he left, Nillia leaned in and whispered something into his ear. With a subtle nod, Lionel stepped away.

A few minutes later, Lionel returned with a cart. In a bucket of ice rested a frosted glass bottle of wine, its blue tint giving it the appearance of being sculpted from ice. The bottle's surface was etched with a semi-three-dimensional mountain scene.

In addition to the three wine glasses, two smaller cups filled with a bright blue liquid sat on the cart. Lionel placed the cups in front of Weiss and Whitley with a friendly smile, though the siblings stared down at their drinks, perplexed.

"I know you asked for water, but you both seemed a bit nervous," Nillia said gently.

"So, I thought you might like this instead. It's a little sweet, but if you don't enjoy it, Lionel can always fetch your water." Weiss and Whitley exchanged another glance before each took a sip. The drink was bubbly, with a berry sweetness balanced by a hint of mint. Their eyes widened in surprise at the taste.

"This is incredible," Whitley blurted out.

"I've never tasted anything like it," Weiss added, her voice tinged with genuine astonishment.

"I'm glad you like it," Nillia said with a knowing smile.

"It's a lesser-known brand I used to enjoy as a child. Asher loved it when he was younger too—before he decided sweet drinks were for kids, and water made him look more grown-up."

Jacques smiled, turning to Vance.

"Your wife certainly has a way with children."

Vance laughed softly.

"She does. Asher turned out well, largely thanks to her. I handle teaching him a lot of the business side of things, but Nillia's the one who taught him most of the important life lessons."

"And I can tell," Jacques said, raising his glass.

"It's rare to see someone so young who carries themselves so well." With that, Vance, Nillia, and Jacques began sipping their wine. As the conversation shifted from pleasantries to business, Jacques suddenly had an idea.

"Oh, I've been so caught up, I almost forgot," Jacques said, setting his glass down.

"The children must be bored to tears listening to us talk. Didn't you say your son was busy with a hobby? Perhaps Weiss and Whitley could join him; give them a chance to bond while we discuss business." Vance and Nillia exchanged a glance before nodding, both smiling at the suggestion.

"That's a wonderful idea," Vance agreed, turning to the Schnee siblings.

"How does that sound to you two?" Weiss and Whitley didn't need to check with their father to understand the opportunity being set up.

Without hesitation, Weiss spoke up.

"That sounds fun."

Whitley nodded in agreement.

"Yes, it does."

"Perfect," Nillia said, then turned to Lionel.

"Would you mind escorting them to the attic? After that, you'll be free; I don't think we'll need you again until after dinner."

"Of course," Lionel replied smoothly.

As they walked, passing through hallways, rooms, and members of staff, Whitley broke the silence.

"So, what exactly is this hobby Asher has picked up? Is it painting? Or maybe something music-related?" He asked, glancing around the manor as they walked.

"Hmm, neither," Lionel responded thoughtfully.

"It's a bit tricky to explain. He's delved into so many different fields, but if I had to simplify it... he's become somewhat of an inventor."

"An inventor?" Weiss and Whitley echoed in unison, their voices laced with confusion. They had expected Asher's hobby to be something more... conventional for someone of their status.

"So you're saying he builds things? Like machines?" Weiss asked for clarification. It was difficult for her to picture. From what she had seen, Ashr had a fairly refined presence—definitely not the type to get his hands dirty with manual labor. The thought of him covered in oil like some mechanic felt out of place.

"Hmm," Lionel mused.

"It'll be easier if you see it for yourselves. Honestly, neither I nor his parents have been up there for a few days now," he said as they reached a more secluded part of the manor, stopping at an empty doorway leading to a spiral staircase. Even from where they stood, Weiss and Whitley could hear the faint humming of machinery coming from above.

"His workshop is at the top of these stairs. Be careful not to touch any of the machines while they're running," Lionel warned. Both Weiss and Whitley nodded, though their minds were already preoccupied with curiosity as they stepped into the stairwell and began ascending.

"Well, this is definitely not what I was expecting," Whitley muttered once Lionel was out of earshot. With their father absent, they felt more comfortable speaking freely.

"Yeah, I didn't picture the heir of the Frostvale family spending his time making robots," Weiss replied as they climbed higher.

Whitley shrugged.

"It's probably just a phase. He's even younger than you, so I doubt he's making anything groundbreaking. He's probably just tinkering, taking things apart, and putting them back together for fun."

"Yeah, that makes sense," Weiss agreed as they reached the top of the stairs. To their surprise, it seemed the staircase led only to a dead-end rooftop. But as they approached, a hidden door slid open with a smooth mechanical noise. A bright light flooded into the stairwell, almost blinding them.

As they stepped into the workshop, they both froze, eyes wide with shock. The large open space was filled with the hum of equipment, flashing lights, and the constant beeping of machines. It felt like they had stepped into a different building altogether. Before they could fully process their surroundings, something zoomed past their faces at high speed, narrowly missing them.

"What the—?!" Whitley blurted out, instinctively stepping back.

"Huh?!" Weiss exclaimed in alarm, her eyes darting around the room.

The object that had nearly hit them flew around the room quickly before coming back around and stopping. It hovered just a meter or so away from them, floating at eye level. It was white, smooth, and about the size of a football. Its oval shape reminded them of a computer mouse, but with sides that could rotate a full 180 degrees, equipped with some kind of quad propulsion system.

Before they could react, a small dot at the front of the device emitted a blue scanning beam that swept over Weiss and Whitley, nearly blinding them when it hit their faces.

"What is this thing?" Whitley grumbled, shielding his eyes.

Just then, Weiss noticed a figure at the front of the workshop—Asher, sitting at a computer monitor. He glanced over his shoulder at them, looking momentarily confused before realization hit.

"Oh, right. The dinner is tonight, isn't it? I must've lost track of time," Asher said nonchalantly. He pressed a button on the holographic keyboard in front of him before shutting off the computer, which also seemed to affect the flying object. 

Immediately, the probe that had scanned them powered down, lowering to the floor. Within seconds, a mechanical arm attached to the ceiling came to life, sliding along tracks toward the device. Weiss and Whitley took another step back as the arm extended down, gently picking up the probe and moving to place it onto a nearby workbench before going dormant again.

"Sorry about that," Asher said as he stood and stretched.

"The onboard AI is still in training. It's still learning to maneuver in three-dimensional spaces, and it's not great at reacting to sudden movements or changes in its environment just yet."

Weiss and Whitley, still stunned, glanced around the room before Weiss finally managed to speak.

"What... is all this?"

Asher glanced around before giving her a casual shrug as he answered, "This is my workshop."

"But anyway," he continued, "what are you two doing here?"