As the aircraft roared away from the drop zone, leaving behind a swirling cloud of dust, the live broadcast shifted to a pair of commentators seated in a sleek, futuristic studio. The background displayed a live feed from the drone tailing the White Comets’ aircraft, along with real-time analytics and combat footage from the ongoing mission.
Marcus, with his confident demeanor, leaned forward slightly as the camera zoomed in on the aircraft and nodded thoughtfully as he watched the footage.
“Now, as we follow the White Comets’ aircraft heading into the Wastelands.”
“It’s worth noting that this is no ordinary aircraft. Unlike the standard military-grade transports used by most guilds, the White Comets are flying in what many consider to be the crown jewel of the Wei family’s engineering prowess.”
The camera panned over the sleek, aerodynamic lines of the aircraft, the polished metal surface gleaming under the harsh sun.
“This beauty isn’t just for show, folks. It’s powered by a revolutionary AI system that sets it apart from anything else in the skies. The AI not only enhances navigation and defense mechanisms but also syncs with the team’s suits, creating a seamless flow of data and easier control. It’s all part of the White Comets’ strategy of sparing no expense to secure victory in this year’s event!”
Elena, sounding more analytical, also spoke up.
“Indeed, the Wei family has outdone themselves this year. These suits, combined with the aircraft’s AI, give the White Comets an edge that no other guild can currently match, but they are not the only ones sporting this technology! Apparently the Reapers are too.”
Marcus leaned back, now wearing an excited yet curious look on his face.
“Speaking of similarities, there’s something else that’s noteworthy, something that’s stirred quite a buzz among the spectators. For the first time since the creation of the Wastelands Display Event, two new guild members are being sent out into the field alongside the veterans!”
He paused for effect, letting the suspense build. “Yes, you heard that right, folks. Two rookies are about to face the harsh realities of the Wastelands. The first is Kai Li, who recently joined the Reapers Guild. He’s already shown remarkable promise, and many are eager to see how he performs under pressure.”
Elena nodded, her eyes narrowing slightly as she spoke.
“But the real spotlight, it seems, is on the White Comets’ own Alister Hazenworth, better known as the Drake Summoner. His reputation precedes him, and there’s been a lot of speculation about how he’ll handle his first mission out in the Wastelands, even some rumors spreading that he already possesses another mythical summon.”
The feed switched to a close-up of Alister from Ren’s suite, still adjusting to the tight suite.
“Alister’s summoning abilities are no secret.”
Marcus continued, his voice filled with excitement. “He’s already proven himself by taming a mythical grade monster, but the Wastelands are a different beast altogether. This is a true test of his skills and resilience. Can he hold his own against the nightmarish creatures lurking out there? Can he live up to the expectations of the White Comets?”
“We’re about to find out, folks. Stay tuned as we continue to bring you live coverage of this year’s Wastelands Display Event. The action is just getting started.”
…
Alister settled into his seat, adjusting the tight suit as best as he could. The material, though advanced, still felt off against his skin, and he couldn’t shake the sensation of being restrained somehow. He took a look around at the squad leaders, each lost in their own thoughts.
Suddenly, Kaida broke the silence. She leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. “Alright, team. Let’s go over our mission parameters one more time.”
Hiroshi grunted in agreement. “We do this all the time with our independent squads. With all of us here it’s going to be a walk in the park like last year. We don’t need to fuss over a plan.”
Razorgrin scoffed, his one eye narrowing. “Complacency gets you killed. Stay sharp. Or are you forgetting we have a newbie to babysit?”
Alister, feeling targeted, spoke up, his tone sounding nonchalant. “My summons can more than protect me, thank you very much. But I won’t be needing any help. If anything I would be asking for permission to go on ahead, I wouldn’t want my ‘precious teammates’ getting caught in my crossfire.” He narrowed his gaze slightly.
For a moment there was silence, except for the aircraft’s engine.
Razorgrin glared at him intently as he said, “Oi, watch that tongue kid, else I’ll be taking off that mask and ripping it out. Seems all that luck you’ve got going for you is making you get cocky.”
“But if you get on my bad side…”
He gave a dramatic pause, letting his words sink in. “it’s all gonna run out.”
Ren raised a hand to stop them before they took things further.
“Enough.”
“Let’s keep our focus. Our primary objective is to clear out as many sectors of any hostile entities. Secondary objectives include resource acquisition and mapping unexplored areas.”
Goro nodded, using one of his hands he tapped a button on a close-by console, causing it to display a green holographic terrain replica. “I’ve reviewed the terrain data. We’ll be facing rough landscapes and potential ambush points.”
“The ground still seems stable, no earthquakes, so no signs of sandworms either.”
“Good, then I guess we don’t have anything to worry about then.” Ren replied as he gazed at the holographic replica of the terrain.
“Sandworms? What are sandworms?” Alister asked, clearly confused.
All the squad leaders suddenly looked at him with a look of surprise in their eyes. Again, there was another moment of short silence.
Suddenly Kaida let out a loud belly laugh, “H-he… he asked what are sand worms, seriously?” she stuttered, laughing so hard she couldn’t talk straight.
“You can’t be serious… if you thought that was some sort of joke then it’s not even funny.” Razorgrin said, glaring at him intensely.freēwebnovel.com