Chapter 20: The second thought of Albedo
Albedo simply nodded in response to my words before turning to face his boss, Azmuth.
Then extended his hand towards him.
In Albedo hands was a similar circular device that was shown previously by Azmuth.
A device that bore a striking resemblance to the Omnitrix.
Despite its different appearance.
As this version of the Omnitrix had a pitch black screen surrounded by a golden alloy material.
Azmuth's expression was one of dissatisfaction.
As he scrutinized the incomplete design before him.
He cast a questioning glance at Albedo, silently asking if this was all there was.
Albedo's face darkened with frustration as he understood his superior's gaze filled with disappointment.
He felt compelled to defend himself, his voice rising with indignation.
Even though it was just a copy of the original but he already had no shame left.
"You can't look at me with that kind of gaze!"
He loudly exclaimed, his tone laced with anger and exasperation.
He counted under his breath, trying to keep his composure.
As he built this copy on his own with no help just based ideas.
"Once the energy source is completed"
"It would have been red in color!"
Azmuth merely raised an eyebrow already knowing it was just an attempted excuse.
His gaze fixated on the golden color of the copied Omnitrix.
Due to his own version coloring being in silver and black, prompting him to inquire.
"Were you planning to change the selection design as well?"
Albedo hesitated to answer, caught off guard by such a question.
"You know, an 'X' icon would be a nicer touch if you want to be more original,"
Azmuth continued, his voice soft and steady trying to offer his own ideas to help change his assistant to be more open minded.
"As my design features an hourglass motif already."
He suggested, "Perhaps you should consider making the color white or even blue."
"The Blue color was my original idea before I ultimately settled on the green lighting."
Albedo fell silent at his boss's proposals.
His mind racing back to his initial plans for an hourglass design.
He cleared his throat, masking his original thoughts with a straight face.
Feigned confidence.
"You know!"
"Those colors were on my mind for the light that accompanies the transformations!"
Azmuth shook his head then proceeded to sit at an antigravity chair.
Then leaned back with a thoughtful expression crossing his face.
Albedo quickly suggested as he followed.
"Why don't we ask Null what he would prefer?"
They both shifted their gazes simultaneously.
It was then that Albedo noticed a peculiar alien sleeping nearby as he did so.
One he had never seen before yet.
Though intrigued, he chose to remain silent not wanting to bother a sleeping individual.
As this current topic, he was particularly more eager about.
Upon noticing the shift, I was disappointed.
As i found myself hoping for more banter between the two.
Their real life dynamic was fascinating to observe in person.
However, sensing their need for answers and the likelihood that they wouldn't let the subject drop.
I had to stir the conversation differently.
As this was a topic that would come afterwards.
"I think this discussion can wait until the device is complete,"
I suggested.
"In curiosity what type of aliens do you need my assistance with, Azmuth?"
A nervous smile broke across Azmuth's face, revealing the weight of his concern.
The planet he wished to visit was Anur Transyl.
He had heard troubling rumors of several Vladats residing there.
Who were the last of the race.
Including many other different Aliens species.
That were working with the Vladats.
Although most of the rumors hinted at a deeper mystery.
Where other alien species had gone missing upon entering the planet, never to be seen again.
As only the intergalactic merchants are only able to land and go freely.
Azmuth took a deep breath, preparing to elaborate.
"There's a world where, once you draw near, you may never leave!"
His voice was tinged with urgency but continued his conversation.
"Also with your help, we could locate the Chronosapiens and the Contumelias.
"These two species are notoriously elusive."
"With only legends about there location similar to your own race."
He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts.
"There are also the Crystal sapiens"
"But they won't cooperate unless…"
He hesitated for awhile. "Well, unless you accompany me."
He continued.
"Your kind has a reputation for being benevolent to them"
"How and when?, I have no clue!"
Upon hearing this, Albedo felt a wave of dread wash over him.
The realization that he might have made a grave mistake in following someone whom is considered the smartest being on their planet.
As Cerebrocrustaceans weren't even that crazy to pursuit such dangerous alien races.
Or to even speak with or look upon them not to mention going near.
Directly confronting Azmuth, Albedo blurted out, "Have you finally lost your mind?!"
Azmuth turned his calm gaze toward his assistant, unperturbed by the outburst.
"No, that's precisely why I'm asking for Null's help!"
He stated matter of factly.
"You don't have to come along if you don't want to."
"Staying aboard the spaceship is a safer option for you anyways, if you choose to do so"
Albedo stood there, slack-jawed and speechless, grappling with the implications of Azmuth's words.
He desperately sought a comeback, feeling insulted, yet he couldn't deny the logic of Azmuth's suggestion.
"If Null were to agree, that is," Albedo pondered silently to himself.