Azure VI

PROJECT: Advanced Zoological Underwater/Urban Reconnaissance & Engagement
TRIAL #: 6
STATUS: ON HOLD ACTIVE (see update #3)

LEAD RESEARCHER: [redacted]
RESEARCH ASSISTANT #1: [redacted]
RESEARCH ASSISTANT #2: [redacted]
RESEARCH ASSISTANT #3: [redacted]

ABSTRACT

As soon as the reality of a war against Wutai was seen as inevitable, the need for a Shin-Ra specialized marine-capable combat unit became of great importance, due in no small part to the enemy nation’s position both on a peninsula and on far shores. And while plans for traditional methods of producing these units were also drafted by [redacted], it was theorized by Lead Researcher [redacted] and their team that they could also be born, both in greater numbers and greater effectiveness, by modifying attributes of creatures native to Midgar in vitro and growing them in a controlled environment.

PROJECT HISTORY NOTES

Owing to the many failures and few successes of Trial #1, it was quickly decided that the sahagin dwelling in the sewers of [redacted] were the best candidates for this procedure-- their fortitude is no secret to those who have faced them in combat, but they are also a surprisingly intelligent species for sewer dwellers as well as already possessing the necessary aquatic qualities for this project.

Trials #2 through #4 were focused entirely on finding desirable markers in the target species, initially through trial and error with a copious number of research specimens, producing three subjects capable of making it to the trial phase. However, early attempts to adapt the sahagin for both urban and naval warfare proved more difficult than expected and these subjects were ultimately deemed unfit for duty and [redacted].

Trial #5 was the first to use a “Sahagin Prince” specimen, leading to great strides in marker identification and alteration methodology due to their greater durability, intelligence, and other overall increased attributes. Unfortunately, the resultant subject still did not perform at satisfactory levels in both dry and water environments and therefore [redacted].

TESTING

In the prior five trials, the cumbersome nature of the sahagin shell was singled out as being problematic for prolonged ground engagements despite its noted defensive benefits. It’s subsequent removal through [redacted] for this trial has allowed for a more human-like form however, thereby possibly allowing for the use of standard Shin-Ra armaments and other support equipment to overcome this loss.

All other markers will be controlled.

RESULTS

Preliminary testing is mixed. The removal of the shell has had the desired effect though not without unforseen side effects-- the reduced weight and increased muscle mass from the subject’s more human-like form has resulted in physical improvements compared to prior subjects, however at the cost of the subject's innate elemental benefits as compared to prior subjects and specimen. Limited aquatic benefits related to the subject's physiology persist fortunately-- fins/swim speed; gills; etc. Whether this will be effective enough in the water environment trials remains to be seen.

Despite the loss stated above however, subject still retains the overall magical sensitivity seen in most sahagin specimens-- see project summary trials #2, #3, and #5. Consider that this may be enhanced somehow through the application of [redacted] without the need for a trial #7.

[redacted] continues to be effective as well. Though the subject did not speak during initial testing, it both comprehended and completed testing without hesitation.

Timestamp: [redacted]
Update #1: It has been confirmed that the war is over, and after several discussions regarding departmental resources, the Advanced Zoological Underwater/Urban Reconnaissance & Engagement project has been put on indefinite hold.

Timestamp: [redacted]
Update #2: [redacted]

Timestamp: [redacted]
Update #3: Due in part to increased Avalanche activity in Midgar, management is showing some renewed interest in this project as a possible mission aid to both [redacted] and [redacted].

Upon retrieving the trial subject, it was revealed that [redacted] had been left operating for the past 129,511.52 hours. When [redacted] was confronted regarding this, they replied with concern that the subject would be “bored to death” in stasis for so long and had enabled the program shortly after the project was originally put on hold.

Since revival, the subject has shown a stark change in personality since original Trial #6 testing. Intelligence is greatly increased relative to common sahagin, as well as the subject’s desire to communicate; showing signs of curiosity. Unexpectedly polite. Somewhat dense.

Physical and magical capabilities appear unchanged.

Timestamp: [redacted]
Update #4: Subject has accompanied [redacted] on several field operations. Results are, thus far, satisfactory. New personality does not seem to hinder performance, though any correlation to positive benefits are also too weak to be confirmed. The department has seen fit to allow the subject free movement within certain areas of the Shin-Ra building to further allow its mental faculties to develop.

Timestamp: [redacted]
Update #5: Free movement no longer allowed. Physical appearance unsettled employees from the Human Resources Department. Despite strong language at volume, subject did not appear offended. Clothes have been provided to the subject.

Timestamp: [redacted]
Update #6: Human Resources has apologized for their behavior and introduced the subject to cake. Subject shows an affinity for cake. Free movement within some departments restored with Lead Researcher authorization.

Limit Break

Name: Shell Game
Slot Level: 1
Description: Tapping into his genetic heritage, Azure VI manifests aetherial sahagin shells as shields that protect himself and/or his allies from damage. If Shell Game is used on a single target, the shield shatters after two attacks or one attack of significant strength (ie. an opponent's Limit Break). If Shell Game is used on multiple targets, the shields shatter after one attack.