The Allbright System - A Sci-Fi Progression LitRPG Story

He rose from his seat and made his way toward the now seemingly designated presentation spot, ready to showcase his own chosen loadout.

Desmond began his description with his signature assured tone, "I'm the team's drone specialist. I'll be handling reconnaissance along with the Cyan, offering limited aerial support, coordinating our movements, and taking on the hacking duties. For that, I needed a specific T1 medium armour, simply known as 'Forge'. It was one of the few medium-type frames offering three major modules, specifically designed to hold a single major module.

"Without a doubt, I had to go for the 'Drone Factory' as my primary module, as it is crucial for my role. It occupies all three slots, so there aren't any other modules to discuss. I chose four different drone designs: two for reconnaissance, a high-explosive suicide-type for heavier engagements - which i’m fairly happy I picked up, now that I know Isabella didn’t bring any anti-tank stuff -and a close air-support drone equipped with 300 rounds of .303 caliber ammunition. Admittedly, I'll need some practice with drone handling, as I’ve never tried these particular ones, but I trust I'll become proficient quickly.

"As for my weapons, I chose the standard-issue 303 AR Mk.5. It's considered T0 by now, but its reliability is unmatched. Considering I won't be on the front lines often, it didn't make sense to allocate a substantial portion of my Credits on high-end weaponry. For my secondary, I picked a laser-type SMG, and for close-quarters, a simple vibroblade. My focus when selecting weapons was a balance between affordability and dependability."

Having finished his summary, Desmond directed the Sovereign to equip him. In an instant, his casual attire was replaced by the impressive and sturdy 'Forge' medium armour, the built-in Drone Factory module a standout feature.

Constructed primarily from plasteel, the Forge featured a robust, angular design that was a blend of utilitarian efficiency and bulky defence. It covered Desmond from head to toe, with its characteristic gunmetal grey finish providing an air of unyielding resilience. The armour was sectioned strategically to ensure optimal flexibility and motion, and the cleverly designed articulations further enhanced the user's mobility, despite the armour’s more than average weight for its class.

The most distinctive feature of the Forge was the integrated Drone Factory module.

Located on the back of the armour, it was essentially a compact manufacturing hub. The module resembled an oversized backpack, its outer surface interspersed with numerous vent-like openings and various status lights blinking in harmony.

Inside this module, the latest in miniaturised fabrication technology worked ceaselessly to create a variety of drones according to Desmond's requirements and designs. Each drone could be assembled, deployed, and even retrieved for repair or modification. The factory module itself was heavily shielded, able to withstand significant damage to protect the valuable assets within.

Thea remembered the SI-AR303 from her own challenge trial, as she had tested it during her initial training with Sergeant Selene. The Mk5 variant looked almost identical, aside from a few minor alterations here and there, such as a slightly lengthened barrel, and the fact that the holographic sight was adjusted slightly further towards the back of the rifle. There were undoubtedly more changes than these inside of the weapon, but Thea had no way to actually look inside of it at the moment.

Following Isabella and Corvus’ examples, Desmond stretched out his left hand and displayed his acquired Abilities.

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