Chapter 41: Before Departure

After a few get-togethers with everyone, Charlotte felt they all became somewhat familiar with each other, allowing them to freely converse within their established group.

There were a few outings leading up to the day of departure, which everyone has mixed thoughts about. However, no one was too outspoken to the point of crossing the line of what should be discussed.

Similarly, as if they have signed a hidden non-disclosure agreement, a certain unspeakable pair would often wander off on their lonesome doing their own private business. As much as she likes to meddle in their business, Charlotte knows better than to interrupt their time spent together.

The casual days would pass by until the day of departure arrived. They were allowed to bring the housekeeper robot with them, and so Charlotte brought her little friend from home. She honestly felt that they acted more as a source of comfort than a being helping around the house, some even regarding them as family despite knowing they are robots.

She didn't have much to pack besides items she would personally find useful. They were all stored inside a suitcase that was designed to move with the owner, so as to make the owner wouldn't lose their suitcase. Since "technology" hasn't figured out how to turn tangible objects into data yet, people still use suitcases to carry things on trips.

Due to the convenience that technology brought to their lives, everything they would need would be provided on-site and so she didn't have to worry much about missing anything. She quickly packed and said goodbye to the home that housed her for about a week. Her little robot friend rolled behind her, with a hilariously big sunhat and cute little sunglasses that she gave to be put on. The little guy looked more like he were ready for vacation than preparing to face the wrath of war before their eyes.

Of course, Charlotte couldn't look so lax when going to work. She wore the informant uniform, which was in camo. She tied a blue scarf around her neck as an indicator of her role as an informant and which area she was situated in.

Once again, the sight of a tall building greeted her as she walked inside. She looked towards the reception area and found a certain young girl gone as if never existed in the first place.

She merely shrugged and walked towards the elevator and towards the meeting room. She was greeted with the sight of young soldiers also dressed in camo, each carrying two suitcases.

'Do they carry their own armory? I thought they would give it out.'

As she ponder over the two suitcases, she walked towards the familiar faces that showed up before her.

"Good morning Charlotte! Are you ready for today?" Lucianna asked.

She was in the middle of discussing with Eric over plans once they arrived on-site.

"Yes, good morning! Did you all have a meeting this earlier today?"

"Yes, we had leaders meeting this morning. You were the earliest of the bunch," Eric smiled.

"It is good practice to be early. It is important since today is the day after all."

"Right, we will be going over our duties and the basics of operation once we reach there, but do help out Lucian whenever you see necessary," Lucianna reminded.

"Of course, it is our duty."

One by one, the room was filled with people. People were surprisingly calm and continued to chatter as if this was just another morning.

'Well, if I had as much experience, I would also act this calm,' Charlotte nodded while sipping from the water bottle in her hand that she picked up nearby.

Soon, most of the members arrived leaving only a few late. This, surprisingly, also includes both Lucian and Armand.

"Lucian is a newcomer. He wouldn't be late on purpose would he? It is his first mission," Luna questioned.

"Armand is also not typically this late. He has a pretty good record so this is really unusual," Eric commented.

Not a minute later, they both simultaneously arrived. They both were notably messy, their hair a bit ruffled.

Lucian was panting, as if out of breath, while Armand remained calm.

'Oh, the difference in stamina...' she silently thought.

"Are you both alright?" Eric asked.

"Yes, there were... a couple of issues along the way, making us a bit late," Armand replied while pulling his and Lucian's suitcase towards the group.

"Yes... issues," Lucian murmured.

Charlotte couldn't catch what he mumbled next but frowned at their unkempt appearance.

"Well, I think the meeting will start soon so tidy up before we leave, alright?" Lucianna told them.

They were briefly made fun of by Finnian before their attention was redirected toward the two men standing in front of everyone.

"Today is the day we make our departure. I would like to remind everyone of the procedure, which should be sent a few days ago. We will be separating into groups. each group will have its own vehicle and will be heading toward the main base. From there, we will rest and then separate into your own team's area. Once you reach where you are supposed to be situated, send back a message immediately. From there, team leaders, remember to carry out your duties and direct those under you. If there are any mishaps, contact the main base immediately and we will switch to the emergency plan. Are there any questions or concerns?" The main commander sounded.

Blake, the man beside him nodded, "Then we will now re-check our luggage to make sure no one missed anything. We will be moving shortly once the vehicles have arrived."

Everyone quickly scanned their luggage and checked their little friend's condition before chatting once more.

Once Lucian and Armand quickly leave to fix their appearance, the whole group couldn't help but chat among themselves.

"Do you think something happened?" Finnian asked.

"Fin, it's not good to meddle in their business," Bert scolded him.

"But they deliberately walked in while in such a state. Not to mention, they walked in together, there is bound to be speculation."

"I am not going to lie, I am also curious," Luna spoke her mind.

"Whatever happened, don't let this affect your mentality," Lucianna warned.

"We will find out sooner or later. We will spend most of our time together anyways, something might happen," Charlotte shrugged.

What they decided to do together in private, no one would know. Whether they decide to fest up or not, no one knows. However, Charlotte knew a clear fact.

'I get to read all about it afterward anyways.'