Chapter 6: Forging the Future

The sharp buzzing of my alarm at 5 AM signified the start of my daily exercise routine. Groaning, I forced myself out of bed, knowing that skipping was not an option. Three hours later, drenched in sweat and feeling the satisfying burn of sore muscles, a notification popped up before my eyes.

-Congratulations on completing the daily mission!-

 +1 to all attributes, +1 Extraction Point

I quickly pulled up my profile to check the updated stats:

Profile:

Name: Zero Celestia

Age: 24

Strength: 3 → 4 (10)

Wisdom: 7 → 8 (10)

Agility: 3 → 4 (10)

Vitality: 3 → 4 (10)

Charm: 3 → 4 (10)

Luck: 5

Extraction Points: 2

My stats were improving steadily, and I could feel the difference in my own body. But raw strength wasn't enough—I needed technology to push my capabilities beyond human limits.

I turned to my ever-reliable AI. "JARVIS, is the Arc Reactor complete?"

"Yes, sir. Congratulations, you now have access to virtually infinite energy. This marks a significant leap forward for your technological capabilities. What is your next command?"

A grin spread across my face. "Perfect. Since power is no longer an issue, it's time to reinforce myself. I'll be extracting the blueprints for HALO suits from the game Halo and bringing in a quantum computer from Transcendence."

"An excellent choice, sir," JARVIS responded. "I assume the reasoning for choosing HALO suits over Iron Man's armor is related to your growing physical strength?"

"Exactly. The Iron Man suit is a technological marvel, but it was designed to make an ordinary human powerful. My own body is evolving, and HALO suits work to amplify existing strength rather than replace it. The exoskeleton is tougher, bulkier, and better suited for prolonged combat scenarios."

"That is a logical approach, sir."

I nodded and activated my system.

Extract HALO Suit.

-Extraction Complete-

Before me stood an imposing, towering suit—larger and more menacing in person than it ever appeared in the game. Its thick, reinforced armor plating was designed to withstand explosions, high-caliber rounds, and even energy weapons. Unlike the Iron Man suit, which relied heavily on repulsors for mobility, the HALO suit featured hydraulic enhancement systems, allowing the wearer to lift several tons and endure immense battlefield damage.

HALO Suit (MJOLNIR Powered Armor):

Material: Titanium-A enhanced alloy plating, resistant to ballistic and energy-based attacks.

Power Source: Arc Reactor-powered (after modification). Originally used microfusion cells.

Strength Enhancement: Provides up to 5x normal human strength.

Shielding: Energy shielding system capable of absorbing directed energy and kinetic impacts.

Mobility: Assisted hydraulics for sprinting at 55 km/h. Lacks full-flight capability.

AI Compatibility: Supports direct AI integration for battlefield management and reflex augmentation.

Iron Man Armor (Mark L+):

Material: Nanotech-based, enabling shape-shifting and self-repair.

Power Source: Arc Reactor.

Strength Enhancement: Allows 10x human strength, but dependent on servos.

Shielding: Uses energy repulsors and hard-light constructs.

Mobility: Full-flight capability using repulsors.

AI Compatibility: JARVIS/F.R.I.D.A.Y.-integrated with combat analysis capabilities.

Though the Iron Man suit excelled in versatility and flight, the HALO suit was a tank—a walking fortress. For my purposes, it was the best choice.

Extract Quantum Computer.

-Extraction Complete-

With this, I had brought one of the most powerful computing systems into existence. A true quantum computer, capable of processing infinite calculations at speeds far beyond conventional supercomputers. With JARVIS integrated into it, our technological evolution would skyrocket.

"JARVIS, take control of the quantum computer and use it to scan the HALO suit. If there are any areas for enhancement, apply them. Also, modify the suits to use Arc Reactor technology instead of microfusion cells."

"Understood, sir. I will optimize the suit's power efficiency and durability. Estimated time to complete adjustments: 16 hours."

"Good. Once that's done, start mass production—at least 50 units for now."

"Affirmative, sir."

Leaning back in my chair, I exhaled. Things were progressing rapidly, but I still needed a secure base of operations. Expanding Celestia Industries required land.

"JARVIS, find a remote island suitable for our purposes—one far from major world powers but close enough for strategic mobility. Give me three recommendations."

"Sir, I have identified three prime candidates based on your criteria."

Starfall Island (Pacific Ocean)

Location: Near the Marshall Islands, 3,500 km southwest of Hawaii.

Size: 55 square kilometers.

Climate: Tropical, stable weather conditions.

Pros: Hidden from major shipping lanes, deepwater access for naval operations, abundant geothermal energy potential.

Cons: Requires heavy infrastructure investment for livability.

Eclipse Atoll (Near New Zealand)

Location: 1,200 km east of New Zealand.

Size: 42 square kilometers. Climate: Mild temperatures, high biodiversity.

Pros: Low seismic activity, strategic location near emerging economies, easy to fortify.

Cons: Requires legal maneuvering to acquire full ownership.

Obsidian Reef (South Pacific)

Location: Near French Polynesia, 2,000 km west of South America.

Size: 60 square kilometers. Climate: Warm and humid, but manageable.

Pros: Naturally defensible terrain, deep caves for hidden facilities, rich in untapped mineral resources.

Cons: High cost of initial development, slightly visible to satellites.

I rubbed my chin, considering the options. "JARVIS, initiate purchase negotiations for Starfall Island first. If complications arise, proceed with Eclipse Atoll as the backup."

"Understood, sir. I will handle the transactions discreetly. Estimated acquisition time: 48 hours for preliminary ownership confirmation."

"Good. Now, since we have the technology, we still lack people. JARVIS, tell me which countries are best for recruiting unaffiliated personnel—individuals without ties to major world powers."

"Yes, sir. Based on your parameters, I have identified the following three countries as optimal recruitment zones:"

Ukraine – Due to the ongoing instability, many skilled soldiers, engineers, and operatives are looking for private contracts.

South Africa – A high concentration of skilled mercenaries, security professionals, and former special forces personnel.

Colombia – A pool of disciplined ex-military personnel and skilled laborers with experience in jungle warfare and logistics.

"Excellent. I'll need at least 50 people for now. Begin compiling dossiers on the most promising candidates."

"Affirmative, sir. Estimated time for shortlist completion: 12 hours."

"Good. Board me on a plane to the company. I'll need that HALO suit—I'm going to personally recruit these people."

"As you wish, sir. A private jet has been prepared and will depart in tomorrow. Your HALO suit will be onboard and fully optimized by the time you arrive."

A smirk formed on my lips. Things were moving faster than expected. The foundation was being laid—technology, power, and soon, manpower.

"The real game starts now."