"Phew, we've finally set up a camp for us to stay," Shin said, wiping his forehead and placing the hammer and nails on the ground.
"Indeed, there should be no demons in the vicinity," I replied, surveying the area to ensure our safety.
"But Arihara, your drone is truly remarkable! It has a range of 200 meters and can scan the surroundings to provide support," Shin continued, his admiration evident.
"Well, it's one of my skills," I replied modestly, summoning my system interface to access my skill status.
As the holographic display appeared before me, I scrolled through the options, exploring the various capabilities of my drone. It was indeed a versatile tool, capable of more than just reconnaissance. With the appropriate skill activation, it could assist in combat, provide tactical information, and even perform utility tasks.
"Besides scanning and support, my drone can also engage in aerial attacks, provide real-time surveillance, and even deliver small items," I explained, highlighting some of the drone's additional functionalities. "It's a valuable asset that enhances our capabilities on the battlefield."
Shin's eyes widened in amazement as he look at my drone's skills. "That's incredible, Arihara!"
"Let's see, I think there are more skills here that I haven't used," I remarked, scrolling down to explore the remaining options. "Ah, here are a few interesting ones."
I pointed to the skill names as I explained their functions. "Arcane Resurgence allows me to replenish mana or energy for myself or others. Hyperstim Boost provides a temporary strength boost, enhancing physical abilities."
Shin's curiosity was piqued as he noticed a skill named "Quantum Shackles." He pointed to it and inquired about its purpose.
"Ah, Quantum Shackles," I said, nodding. "It's a unique skill that allows me to bind a target's movement using quantum energy. It restricts their mobility and can be quite useful in immobilizing powerful enemies or securing strategic advantages during battles."
Shin's eyes widened with intrigue as he considered the potential applications of such a skill. "That sounds incredibly handy. It could give us a significant advantage in combat situations."
As I clicked on the skill name, the system revealed its detailed description. "Quantum Shackles," I read aloud, "an extraordinary supportive skill that harnesses quantum entanglement principles to immobilize enemies, creating an opportune moment for allies to strike with devastating force."
I continued reading the description, my excitement growing with each word. "By manipulating the fabric of space-time, the user can bind adversaries, enabling their allies to unleash amplified damage upon the restrained targets."
"Well, there are more support skills I can utilize," I shrugged off, closing the system.
Just then, Alice's voice interrupted us. "Hey, boys! Are you planning to slack off?" She approached us with a playful grin. "Dinner is ready."
"Ah, thank you, Alice," I said, bowing in gratitude.
"No worries. We're all a team on this mission, after all! Plus, having a strategist like you is pretty handy."
We gathered around the campfire for dinner, discussing our plans for the night and the upcoming day.
I cleared my throat to gain everyone's attention. "Now that we're all here, it's important to remember that there are demons lurking outside. We should designate someone to stay awake and keep watch tonight."
Saori raised her hand confidently. "I can manage that."
Atsuko chimed in, and her enthusiasm is evident. "I'll be Miss Saori's sniper from above! No demon will get past us!"
I nodded appreciatively at their willingness to take on the responsibility. "Thank you, both of you."
"No worries!" Atsuko grinned, her excitement contagious.
"Alright, now let's discuss tomorrow's plan." I opened the system and clicked on the map icon, revealing the map of our current location.
"Hm? That's very handy," Alice remarked, nodding in approval as she tapped her chin.
"Sorry, it's not fully scanned yet," I admitted. "But I've deployed my drones to scan every inch of the map. We should have more information soon."
"Smart thinking," Sora and Yuki said in unison, their synchronized agreement.
"Thank you, both of you. Well, for tomorrow's plan, we'll have two all-rounders and two gunners in the backline, while the attacker will take on the vanguard position," I explained.
Alice tilted her head, contemplating the strategy. "Is that a good approach?" she asked.
I nodded, offering my rationale. "Yes, it provides us with a balanced formation. The all-rounders can handle various situations and provide support when needed. The gunners will provide long-range firepower and cover the rear. And having an attacker in the vanguard will ensure a strong offensive presence and keep the demons occupied."
Alice seemed to consider my words and nodded in agreement. "Sounds reasonable. We'll make it work."
"But seriously, Arihara... You've already planned everything so quickly, even though it's only been a day."
"That's just how Rei is," Hoshiko chimed in, hugging me tightly and playfully licking my ear.
"Woah! H-Hey!"
"Rei, how about letting me bite your neck?" Hoshiko teased, going for a playful nibble on my ear.
"We can't do that now... There are people watching!"
"Hmm, I can't hold back any longer!" Hoshiko exclaimed, licking my neck and moving in for a bite.
The rest of the group gasped, immediately reaching for their weapons. "Arihara!" But I quickly intervened, shaking my head to stop them.
"Wait, everyone, hold on... It's fine..."
"How is this fine!?" Saori exclaimed, her grip tightening on the hilt of her katana.
"B-Because we're contracted."
Saori's eyes widened in realization, and she let out a sigh. "I forgot... Sorry."
"It's alright," I reassured her, understanding the initial concern. "We have a unique relationship that goes beyond the ordinary."
After that, Hoshiko released her hold on my neck and licked her lips. "Thank you for the food~" she said, nuzzling against me.
"She's a bit... clingy, isn't she?" Alice remarked, taking a sip of her coffee.
"Don't provoke her."
"...Hmm? Why not?"
"Because she's a level 15 demon with the capacity ability of S-Rank."
"Ah...hahaha... I see... I won't then~" Alice chuckled nervously. "Certainly don't want to fight her."