"I need your help figuring out what to buy with the allocated contribution points. I looked through the catalog, but I don't know much about these machines," I said.
They nodded, and I handed my communicator to Veylen.
"You're the smart one in this team, Veylen, so voice your thoughts. Saria, you'll be operating the Rhino, so give your input on what you think is necessary. Orin, you're responsible for maintaining our equipment, so list everything you might ever need," I said.
"I want the Rhino to be fully equipped for every situation. Find a solution for lighting—there will be months of darkness not long after we arrive. While it doesn't bother me, you all need to see."
For the next hour or so, they discussed things I only half understood.
I was a freaking mechanical engineer. How come I don't get anything they're saying? I thought to myself.
Doesn't matter. They get it, and that's what matters.
After about three hours, they finally came up with a plan.
"Sir, we've discussed everything and fulfilled your requests. It's waiting for your confirmation," Veylen said.
"Finally, I was almost bored to death. Now, tell me what you've decided on."
"First, we should replace the Rhino's power generator with a spelltech one that we can charge with soul shards. It'll be more powerful and easier to recharge than using fuel," Saria said.
"Approved. Next."
. . .
"That's all, Sir," Veylen said. "I have a question, if I may?"
"Questions are good. They help erase doubt. Ask away."
"I understand your general idea for forming this cohort, but it's heavily reliant on you. Without you, we probably wouldn't even be able to kill a few stronger creatures. What do we do if something happens to you?"
"Hmmm. It's good to have a healthy amount of doubt, so I'll tell you a bit about myself. You see, with me around, you'll be stronger than you are now. I don't know how much stronger since I haven't had the opportunity to test it properly. As for your concern—if something happens to me, I'm basically unkillable." I grinned.
They were stunned to say the least.
"Alright. Good job. Go do your own things. We meet at the same time tomorrow," I said.
We upgraded the Rhino as much as possible—replacing the power generator, upgrading the communication station so we wouldn't have signal issues unless blocked by some terrifying creature, and adding a high-output reflector for light.
We also acquired six memories that could provide light and stocked up on stimulants and provisions just to be safe.
After everything was settled, I headed back to my room. On the way, I ran into Sunny.
"Hey, Sunny. How's it going?"
"Hi. All good. Just finished beating my cohort—I mean, training my cohort. They helped me finalize what I want to spend my points on."
"We're so alike. I beat mine up too. They helped me as well… well, more like they figured out what to buy after I listed my requirements."
"How dependable," Sunny said with sarcasm.
"What do you mean? That's called listening to the experts," I said proudly.
"Yes, yes, I totally believe you."
"I get the feeling you don't. Anyway, let's go eat. I think I could eat a whole pig—whatever that is."
The two weeks passed quickly. My cohort improved rapidly, getting better at covering for each other while I attacked them.
"Come on, guys, let's get on that ship!"
"Yes, Sir!" they shouted in unison.