The morning sun barely touched the horizon as Lukas and Zane stood in the Veridan estate courtyard, a silent tension between them. Today marked the last full day before they would set out for the battlefield, and the weight of what lay ahead pressed down heavily on their minds. While they had spent the last few days preparing their bodies and minds, one final task remained before they could feel truly ready: arming themselves with the right weapons and armor.
"We're heading back to the armory," Lukas said with a determined expression. "But this time, we're not just picking weapons at random."
Zane raised an eyebrow, curious. "What do you mean?"
Lukas grinned, his eyes flashing with excitement. "The system. It can analyze weapons and armor. It'll help us pick the best gear for what we need."
Zane blinked, surprised. "Wait, it can do that?"
Lukas nodded, already mentally activating the Echelon Ascendant system. "Let's just say we won't be going in blind."
As they made their way through the corridors of the estate, Zane fell into step beside Lukas, his expression more relaxed. Despite the looming battle, the bond between them had grown. Each knew they had to rely on the other for what was to come.
The Veridan armory was as vast as it was daunting. Rows upon rows of weapons and armor, passed down through generations of Veridan warriors, lined the walls. The air smelled of steel and oil, the sharp tang of weaponry filling the space. It was a place where history and legacy converged, and today, it would serve as the key to their future survival.
Lukas and Zane paused at the entrance, taking in the sight of the gleaming weapons. Zane let out a low whistle. "You'd think this place belonged to a kingdom."
Lukas smirked. "In some ways, it used to."
As they entered, Lukas focused inward, calling on the system. Within moments, a soft chime echoed in his mind, followed by the system's voice.
[System Alert: Weapon and Armor Analysis Unlocked]
The system can now scan and analyze weapons and armor within proximity. Scanning will reveal the condition, compatibility, and potential upgrades available for each item.
Lukas grinned, feeling the familiar surge of excitement. He turned to Zane. "Let's start by scanning everything here. We'll find the best options for both of us."
Zane nodded, his eyes lighting up with anticipation. "Let's do it."
They began to move through the armory, Lukas scanning each weapon they passed. A faint blue glow surrounded each piece of equipment as the system's analysis took effect. It was a strange sensation—seeing the world through the system's lens, the hidden potential of each weapon laid bare.
As Lukas passed over a set of standard short swords, the system chimed.
[Analysis Complete: Short Swords]
Condition: Excellent
Compatibility with Zane: High
Weapon Affinity: Dual Blades
Potential Upgrades: Enhanced Edge, Mana Channeling Runes
Lukas nodded approvingly. "Zane, these short swords are perfect for you. They're in excellent condition and fit your fighting style. Plus, the system says there's room for upgrading them with runes in the future."
Zane picked up one of the blades, giving it an experimental swing. His face broke into a grin as the blade felt natural in his hand. "I like these. They're light, fast, and the balance is spot on."
Lukas continued scanning the nearby armor, looking for something that would suit Zane. After a few moments, the system chimed again.
[Analysis Complete: Leather Armor]
Condition: Good
Compatibility with Zane: Moderate
Armor Rating: Medium
Recommended Upgrades: Reinforcement Plates, Lightweight Alloys
"Zane, try this leather armor," Lukas said, holding up the cuirass. "It's light but sturdy enough to give you protection without slowing you down."
Zane took the armor, testing the fit. "Feels good," he said, fastening the straps. "Not too heavy, and I can move easily."
Lukas nodded, satisfied with their progress. Now, it was his turn.
He moved deeper into the armory, his eyes scanning the various sabers, swords, and axes hanging on the walls. His hand hovered over a beautifully crafted saber, its blade slightly curved and its hilt decorated with intricate engravings. He activated the system again, allowing it to analyze the weapon.
[Analysis Complete: Saber]
Condition: Superior
Compatibility with Lukas: High
Weapon Affinity: Single-Edged Blades
Potential Upgrades: Ether Infusion, Sharpening Enhancement
Lukas picked up the saber, feeling the weight in his hand. The balance was perfect, and the blade felt like an extension of his arm. He gave it a few test swings, the blade cutting through the air with a satisfying hiss.
"This one," Lukas said, a grin spreading across his face. "This is the one."
Zane watched, impressed. "Looks like you found your match."
Lukas sheathed the saber and turned his attention to the armor. He needed something that would provide protection but still allow him to move freely in battle. After scanning several pieces, the system chimed with a recommendation.
[Analysis Complete: Reinforced Leather Cuirass]
Condition: Excellent
Compatibility with Lukas: High
Armor Rating: Medium-High
Recommended Upgrades: Ether-Resistant Plates, Mana Absorption Layer
"This will work," Lukas muttered, strapping on the cuirass. It was sturdy but flexible, reinforced with steel plates across the chest and shoulders. The fit was snug, but it allowed him the mobility he needed for quick strikes with the saber.
As he finished adjusting the armor, Lukas felt a wave of confidence wash over him. The system had not only helped them choose the right weapons but had also given them insights into how to improve their gear in the future.
"We're ready," Lukas said, his voice filled with determination. "Now it's time to face what's coming."
Lukas and Zane stepped into the courtyard, their new weapons and armor strapped to their bodies. The sun had risen higher in the sky, casting long shadows over the estate grounds. The preparations were complete, and the weight of their impending journey to the battlefield settled on them both.
Zane turned to Lukas, his expression serious. "Do you think we'll survive?"
Lukas met his gaze, unwavering. "We have to. There's too much at stake."
Zane nodded slowly. "Yeah, you're right. And with this system, we've got an edge most people don't."
Lukas smiled. "Exactly. But the system can only take us so far. We'll have to rely on our skills—and each other."
Zane chuckled. "I guess that means I can't slack off, huh?"
"Not if you want to make it back in one piece," Lukas replied, clapping Zane on the shoulder. "But we'll make it. Together."
As they made their way toward the estate's gates, Lukas couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The battlefield would be their first true test—both for him as a leader and for the Echelon Ascendant system. But with the right weapons, armor, and the bond they shared, he knew they would face whatever challenges came their way.
The path ahead was uncertain, but one thing was clear: they were ready.