With a few final details, like the design of the sword I wanted, I left to my work.

  While I still needed to use traditional forging, I was getting to the point of it no longer being necessary. I was building parts here, and the machines at home were finishing them for assembly.

  I had the basics, they weren't quite enough. I would finish the preparatory steps just before the expedition. I could maybe begin working on the testing bits of my work, but I think not.

  Better to not be mid-work and then have to leave for the woods. But I was close. So very, very close.

  The model of body I was aiming for was used for colonization on hostile worlds. They were simple in design, easy to maintain, and power efficient to the extreme. With 4 times the strength of a man, it was the premier model for rough expeditions in hostile environments.

  Tough and rugged, I could think of no better option. The only downside was that it lacked alot in the digital side.

  Low processing power, low digital security... there was a reason they weren't used for battle, they would instantly be subverted, then there would be a battle for them that would waste resources.

  I also began the creation of a 'modern' pistol. By modern, I mean it is over 6 century's old and easy enough to make.

  While kinetic weapons were effective at killing, and were still used en-mass throughout human occupied space, I preferred a more civilized option.

  In the 33rd century, the current advances in laser weaponry would be magical to the last century inhabitants. And while I can't make any of the grand weapons on my century (yet), I can apply those principles to an outdated design to improve it significantly.

  If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.

  But that was for after the expedition. I made a flintlock pistol for it, to go olong with the carbine. It would be good.

  So, I worked on finishing my preparations, tested material, and went to work. Until it was the day before the expedition.

  Time flew by at school, and soon I was at the meeting place. The brothers had called me to their shared office to give me the weapons and encouragements.

  I knocked, and was let in. "Keri! Good to see ya! We've got the things prepared. I must say, the smith's have outdone themselves!" Jorik said happily.

  "That is fantastic news! Oh, I've a thing to show you, really quick." I say.

  I pull out the pistol, showing it around. They got the idea quickly.

  "See, I've been working on this I my free time. Like a handheld crossbow, you use this in one hand! You can duel wield like this. It is short ranged, but I think it has potential." I say.

  "Ay. I can see that. This would be popular with nobles or officers I think. Make it more expensive for a status effect... ay." Dorik said. The two others nodded.

  "We can get it enchanted quick enough. I like it. We can enchant this as well on the quick for ya if ya want?" Korik asked.

  I nodded. "Yes, thank you. Now, what have ya got?"

  He pulls out a scabbard from behind the desk, it was plain. The sword however, wasn't.

  It was simple in look, with little ornamentation. But the sword itself was a work of art.

  It was made of pure mithril he said, with a long 4 foot curved blade. The back of the blade was thick, slowly tampering to the edge, leaving a broad blade made for the cut. The tip was ssharpenedon both ends, to assist it thrusting.

  The brothers tell of runes and enchantments made to make it cut faster, fall harder, increase durability, and keep an unnatural edge. It was... beautiful.

  "It cost alot of money and a favor or two, but... this isn't just a weapon, it is a symbol of might. You, Keri, have done great things for us. Take this, and join us. Join our clan, the Zorit clan. Will you accept?"

  "... Yes. I do." I say."

  And thus, I join a clan and get a sword a hero would kill for, just by giving them shitty guns. Worth.