Capítulo 57: New Equipment
Takashima wiped the sweat from his forehead, his body still covered in dust and blood from the recent underground exploration. The sight of injured team members and the quantum artifacts saved from the underground cave still lingered in his mind. He had arranged for some of the injured to be taken to Old World Network for further treatment. With the fieldwork completed, he headed to the main building to report the expedition's results to his superior, Leo Micheline—one of the most respected leaders in the Old World Network administration.
He arrived at the large, grand office door of Leo. The automatic door slid open as he approached, revealing a room with a minimalist yet classy design. The walls were adorned with slowly rotating holograms, displaying data and information on various ongoing missions and operations in Fertissio.
Behind a large desk, Leo Micheline sat composed, his posture straight and his gaze sharp, even though he was focused on the holographic screen before him. "Takashima," Leo said without looking away from the screen, his voice calm yet authoritative. "How did the mission in the underground cave go?"
Takashima stood tall, aligning his posture before beginning his report. "The mission in the ruins went as planned, Sir. However, there were more injuries than initially expected. The monsters were stronger and more dangerous. Fortunately, all the quantum artifacts have been secured, and the area is now clear of threats." He paused for a moment, taking a breath before continuing. "I also want to report on two relic hunters who performed exceptionally well during this mission."
Leo finally turned his attention from the holographic screen to Takashima, showing interest. "Who are they?"
"Modeus and Abigail," Takashima responded firmly. "They're newcomers, but their combat skills are impressive. I witnessed firsthand how they fought against relentless waves of monsters. Modeus with his extraordinary physical strength, and Abigail with his tactical acumen. They even used magic."
Upon hearing "magic," Leo's eyes narrowed. He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. "Magic?" he asked, his tone skeptical. "You know, Takashima, magic in Fertissio isn't very effective. Demons are far superior in magic compared to humans. Those who try to use it usually don't last long against them."
Takashima nodded, understanding Leo's skepticism. "That's true, Sir. But what I saw was different. They didn't just use magic as a primary weapon; they combined it with strategy and physical prowess. Modeus fought as if he enjoyed every moment, tearing through monsters effortlessly. Abigail... he was different. Calm, intelligent, and able to make quick, precise decisions amidst the chaos. He even saved a noble from a monster attack."
Leo scrutinized Takashima closely, his eyes searching for every detail on the face of his trusted subordinate. "A noble? Who did they save?"
"Young Lady Oriana Micheline, Sir," Takashima replied without hesitation.
Leo paused, visibly taken aback by the name. The atmosphere in the office, previously cool and formal, now felt tense. "So, that stubborn girl ignored my warnings and went on the mission after all. If she was saved by two rookie relic hunters, this is a different matter." Leo turned back to the holographic screen and began searching for information about Modeus and Abigail. "Let's see who they really are..."
The names Modeus and Abigail quickly appeared on the screen, accompanied by their basic profiles, indicating their status as beginners. Their records showed standard mission logs with no significant achievements prior. Yet, Leo scrutinized the details carefully, looking for any small hints others might overlook.
"According to the records, they are beginners," Leo said slowly, his tone still tinged with skepticism. "Nothing particularly outstanding before this. How can you be sure they deserve a promotion?"
Takashima met Leo's gaze with unwavering confidence. "Sir, I was there. I saw them in action. They're more than just beginners. They have immense potential. If we keep them at this level, we'll be wasting talent that could be extremely valuable in the future."
Leo remained silent, his eyes slowly moving as he weighed the situation. He knew that promoting rookie relic hunters wasn't something to be done lightly, especially with the increasing threats of demons in Fertissio. But Takashima rarely made recommendations without good reason. He was one of the best field commanders the Old World Network had.
After what felt like a long pause, Leo finally gave a slow nod. "Alright, Takashima. I'll approve your request. Modeus and Abigail will be promoted and will have access to higher-level missions." Leo glanced at the screen once more, memorizing their names. "However, they will be tested more rigorously from now on. If they fail, there won't be another chance."
Takashima smiled slightly, relieved by the decision. "Thank you, Sir. I'm confident they'll prove themselves."
Leo stood from his chair and looked out the office window, which offered a broad view of the Old World Network's city center. "In this world, only the strong survive, Takashima. We need more people like them—capable of facing the demonic threats and defending what remains of this cursed continent."
Takashima gave a respectful nod and left the room, feeling lighter now that the report was completed. He was confident that Modeus and Abigail had proven themselves in the field. With this promotion, they would face much greater challenges—but he believed they were ready.
As Leo remained alone in the quiet room, his thoughts shifted to the other name mentioned by Takashima: Oriana Micheline.
"I'm not sure how to deal with a stubborn young girl like her. But if I let her stay here any longer, the head of the Micheline family, my brother, will probably have my head. That's for sure."
A cold sweat began to bead on his forehead as he pondered how to avoid any potential trouble if something worse were to happen to his headstrong niece.
***
After a brief chat with Lilianne at the upscale restaurant, Modeus and Abigail walked towards the main building of Old World Network with confident strides. The sun gleamed off the grand structure, reflecting light off the tall glass windows. This building was the hub for all missions and tasks in Fertissio, and every day, relic hunters of all levels gathered here, ready to take on new challenges.
As they entered the main doors, the building buzzed with activity. Relic hunters chatted among themselves, some still covered in dust and minor injuries from their recent missions. Abigail's attention was drawn to a large holographic display on the wall, showing the list of missions for the day. As he glanced at it, he suddenly stopped.
"Check this out, Modeus," he said, pulling out his A.R.M.—a small device shaped like a phone that every relic hunter carried. The small screen on his A.R.M. displayed an unexpected update. "I've been promoted. From Seeker to Scavenger."
Modeus, standing beside him, looked at him with wide eyes. "Promoted? Let me check my A.R.M.," he said eagerly. He quickly activated his advanced device and saw the information on the screen. "What? I'm promoted too! From Wanderer to Seeker!"
They exchanged glances, both clearly astonished.
"I bet this is Takashima's doing," Abigail said after a moment of thought. "He must have reported our performance from the last mission. It's the only explanation that makes sense."
Modeus nodded in agreement. "It must be. And I'm really grateful for it." His eyes sparkled with enthusiasm. "Now we can take on missions with higher difficulty!"
Abigail smiled faintly, though his calm demeanor contrasted with Modeus, who was nearly bouncing with excitement. "That's right. Now we can take on Scavenger missions, which means more challenges and—more money."
Modeus laughed. "Of course, I knew you'd think of that, Abigail."
As Abigail was about to select a new mission from the holographic display, a familiar voice called out from behind them. "Hello, Abigail. Modeus."
They turned to see Marlene, a senior relic hunter they had often seen in action. She stood casually but exuded a strong aura of confidence. She wore her usual tight augmented suit and carried a large long-barreled weapon on her back.
"Hey, Marlene," Abigail greeted with a nod. "How's it going?"
Marlene beamed. "Pretty good. I heard you two just got promoted. Congratulations." Her voice was soft but clear, reflecting her experience and authority.
"Yeah," Modeus cut in enthusiastically. "I'm a Seeker now, and Abigail's a Scavenger. We're looking for a new mission. What about you?"
Marlene considered for a moment before replying. "Actually, I'm also looking for a mission and happen to be recruiting new team members. How about we team up for this one?"
Abigail and Modeus exchanged glances. The offer was tempting. "Sounds good," Abigail said, slightly serious. "But… what's your rank now?"
Marlene laughed lightly before answering. "I'm a Warden, one rank above you, Abigail."
Modeus's eyes lit up. "Seriously? That means we can take on missions two levels higher than my current rank!" He looked even more excited, almost like a child getting a gift.
Marlene chuckled, seeing how thrilled Modeus was. "Yes, that's right. But don't get too reckless. Higher-level missions come with bigger risks, but with your skills, I'm not too worried," she said, her tone a relaxed warning.
Abigail, remaining calm, nodded. "We're ready. With your experience, teaming up will make the mission easier. So, what mission are you targeting?"
Marlene pulled up a hologram on her A.R.M. and displayed a mission listing. "I've just picked a convoy escort mission. There's some important cargo that needs to be delivered to new ruins for expedition and medical preparation, and they need a few relic hunters for protection."
Abigail examined the mission details for a moment. Escorting cargo was always risky, especially in areas far from the Old World Network's central hubs. Monsters, bandits, and even other relic hunters often targeted high-value cargo. However, this mission also promised a substantial payout.
"That sounds good. We can split the reward three ways," Abigail said with a small smile, clearly weighing the benefits of the mission.
Modeus still had a wide grin on his face. "Let's do it! I can't wait to kick some more monster butt."
Marlene looked at her two companions with a satisfied expression. "Alright, it's settled then. I'll register your profiles for my team."
"But before we head out, I need to gather some combat gear. This will be a long and dangerous journey, so I want to make sure we're prepared."
Abigail nodded in agreement. "It's better to get everything we need now. It's always good to be thorough."
Meanwhile, Modeus was grinning broadly, excited at the thought of picking up new gear. "I love moments like this. It's been a while since I've seen any cool new weapons."
Marlene led them to Iron Fang Armory, one of the most renowned weapon shops in the Old World Network. The shop was known for its top-tier equipment, from heavy firearms to advanced detection technology. As they entered, the automatic doors slid open with a whoosh, and the scent of metal and lubricant filled the air.
Behind the counter stood Lin Ming, an athletic woman with her long hair neatly tied back. She greeted them with a familiar nod.
"Marlene, and Modeus and Abigail," Lin Ming said in a friendly tone, "Long time no see. It looks like you're gearing up for a big mission?"
Marlene nodded with a smile. "Yes, and I need some gear. Do you have what I need, Lin?"
Lin Ming frowned slightly, thinking for a moment. "What are you looking for this time?"
Marlene responded calmly and methodically. "I need a heavy automatic firearm that can be mounted on a jeep. It should be stable even at high speeds. And a large supply of ammunition for it. Also, I need a mid-range automatic firearm, an extra scope for my sniper rifle, and a long-range metal sensor that can be mounted on the jeep as well."
Lin Ming listened carefully, jotting down every detail of Marlene's order. Marlene's focus and attention to detail highlighted her thoroughness and professionalism in preparing for the mission.
Modeus, standing next to Abigail, couldn't hide his admiration. "Wow, you've really thought of everything, haven't you? I hadn't even considered mounting automatic weapons on a vehicle."
Marlene gave a light smile and glanced at Modeus. "In an escort mission, you never know what might happen on the road. It's better to be over-prepared. With weapons mounted on the jeep, we can handle enemies from a distance without having to stop."
Modeus nodded, increasingly impressed. "I need to learn from your approach to mission prep. You're truly a professional."
Abigail, who had been quietly observing, then spoke up. "I also need a few things. I want a new augmented suit that offers more protection and mobility. And some lightweight automatic firearms that I can carry for the mission."
Lin Ming nodded and started noting down Abigail's requests. "I have a few of the latest augmented suits that should fit your specifications, Abigail. I'll bring some options for you to try."
After Abigail finished, Modeus eagerly chimed in, his eyes shining with excitement. "I need something too, Lin. But I don't need as many firearms as they do. I prefer close combat." He grinned, looking directly at Lin Ming. "I need a quantum-coated sword."
Lin Ming raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised but intrigued. "Quantum-coated sword? That's quite a special item. Not many relic hunters go for close-range weapons with that kind of power. Are you sure?"
Modeus nodded firmly. "Absolutely. A sword like that can cut through almost anything, including armor and monster hide that usually resists regular attacks. Besides, I prefer fighting with a sword over firearms."
Lin Ming smiled faintly. "Alright, I'll check what we have in the specialty weapons section. But don't be mistaken, quantum-coated swords are very rare and expensive."
Modeus laughed lightly. "That's okay."
Lin Ming chuckled along with Modeus. "I like your attitude. I'll make sure to get the best for you."
After finishing the notes, Lin Ming looked at the three of them with enthusiastic eyes. "All your items will be ready in a few hours. Your mission doesn't seem easy, but with the equipment you're getting, you'll definitely have a better chance."
Marlene nodded confidently. "That's the plan."
Abigail glanced at Modeus and Marlene. "Everything is indeed expensive, but for the success of this mission, I think it's worth it."
Modeus just grinned with self-assurance. "I agree. The greater the risk, the greater the reward."
After wrapping up their business at Iron Fang Armory, they stepped out of the store and headed towards the jeep parked outside. With their new weapons and gear on the way, they were ready to tackle the challenging escort mission ahead. However, deep down, Abigail, Modeus, and Marlene all knew that anything could happen out there, and they had to stay vigilant at all times.
As they approached the jeep, Modeus exclaimed with a broad smile, "I can't wait to try out this quantum sword. I'm going to make the monsters out there regret ever crossing our path."
Marlene shook her head with a smile, while Abigail patted Modeus on the shoulder. "Always so enthusiastic. I hope your excitement lasts until the end of the mission."
***
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