1473 Battle Preparations!
In a flash, many weeks went by, with many events unfolding across the world.
There were wars, battles, celebrations, new opportunities, new hatreds, and new friendships formed throughout Hertfilia.
Everyone was engrossed in their matters, counting their blessings and hardships as the days went by.
And before they knew it, it was already the 3rd week of July.
Summer was long in full bloom!
.
Swahhh~ Swahhh~ Swahhh~
The waters patted the sides of the massive ships with a gentle touch, completely contrasting from the dangers underneath.
The sun was still rising, yet the weather was stagnant and boiling the moment many stood on deck.
Ringggg~~
A phone went off.
[Your majesty, we've entered the waters of Titarian.]
"Good. Slow the ships as planned."
[With immediate effect, your majesty.]
Tut...
Landon subconsciously nodded, calmly walking towards his balcony with a warm mug of tea in hand.
And sure enough, the signal had been given, and many sprung onto the deck like wolves in a hunt.
'I should probably get going.' He reminded me.
As planned, they had to slow the speeds at which all ships moved.
If they didn't do this, they'd probably arrive at the shores of Titarian 18 minutes after entering its official waters.
With that, Landon stepped out of his room, meeting a few others on the way down to deck level.
But unlike his calm demeanor, the same couldn't be said for those on deck.
.
"F***! Is it just me, or did time just disappear like that?"
"Bro, I feel the same way too. I want to say that I'm fully prepared. But my body won't stop streaming when thinking of what's to come!"
"Hahahahahaha~... You newbies and youngsters sure are lively. It's normal to feel butterflies. But you need not worry too much. You'll all be accompanied and paired with us, veterans. So you'll be well looked after. Just follow orders, protect yourself, and you should be fine."
"Senior... Thank you so much... But why are your legs shaking?"
"..."
Many listened in awe, watching the famous marines and soldiers give them courage.
Their previously sunken chests rose firmly above the skies with a single word from their seniors.
Cecilia stared at her senior in obedience and attentiveness.
Was she nervous? Of course, she was!
This was a life and death matter like no other.
Double-S.
That was the mission status. Something she had never undergone before. She was a newbie whose highest mission undertaking was an A-Class mission.
She had never even been on an A-class one, not to talk of being in a Double-S task.
It can be said that her emotions were very turbulent, sometimes filled with self-doubt and other times overflowing with confidence.
Why her? Why was she chosen for such an important task out of many in her brigade?
Was it her potential? What qualities did the higher-ups see in her that made them choose her out of the lot?
.
Cecilia took deep breaths, wanting to calm her trembling body.
So it was true, what they say.
The closer one got to the shores, the more words of panic echoed out of their minds.
How would things go?
What to expect?
Cecilia clutched the hens of her long camouflage shirt, starting at the incoming group of superiors at the forefront.
ATTENTION!
Everyone subconsciously stood at attention.
And soon, all that could be heard were the sounds of several thundering boots marching forth.
Din. Din. Din. Din. Din~
Like whispers of battle, the mighty footsteps drummed in rhythm to their hearts.
"Dario Coastal City, Tatarian. That's where we will be docking in a matter of time. So I ask... Are you ready?!!"
"Sir, yes, sir!"
"I can't hear you."
"SIR, YES, SIR!!"
The men's voices echoed out, neither too loud nor too low.
Though they were at a safe distance, away from any damn pirate passing by or patrol ships, the voice of many could still be carried forth by the open air.
But this alone gave many a sudden strength from within.
The replies of these brave soldiers, Navy, and marines echoed out from all Battleships.
And at this moment, they all connected, feeling as one.
Yes! They weren't fighting alone.
.
"We are ready, sir!"
"Good! Then the battle has already been won!"
Landon swept a firm gaze at the massive gathering of both men and women, letting his words sink in.
"Double-S class!... You all have been chosen and found worthy of undertaking this deadly mission. And as already planned, I will be leading Team Blue, and your Queen will be leading Team Red!"
Everyone listened with a firm gaze, once again receiving a brief overlay of their tasks.
Though there were but 2 main teams, it can be seen that underneath each team were many subteams consisting of marines, military doctors, dogs, and soldiers.
The Navy also had instructions on what to do while all ground teams set out.
As Landon spoke, a cold aura leaked off him, reminding everyone how deadly their current situation was.
"The enemy is here and on the move! They are vicious and will do anything to kill the target."
Everyone knew who he spoke of -- The T.O.E.P's.
"We have but 3 main missions to fulfill: save the target while protecting the innocent. Capture or kill enemies. Sign a treaty with Titarian."
Everyone nodded, subconsciously repeating his words.
"As for the target's uncle... We received Intel that this uncle, Codename Featherduster, should be on his way to the Capital as we speak."
'The corporation date was but a few weeks away. So it's more likely the Featherduster should either be there or on his way over.' Many thought.
"I'm sure everyone knows this... But due to the Titarian's unique terrains, anything can happen in these parts. Not only will we have to beat the enemy, but we'll have to survive in this strange place."
.
They call Titarian the Land Of Hills.
Its difficulty is unpredictable and said to have a mind of its own.
So how could they not be vigilant in strange territories?
Landon looked at them deeply. "Remember, though the missions are important, your lives weigh far more than that. Keep yourself safe before attempting to keep another... Now... Prepare for battle!!"
It was time to face the T.O.E.Ps once more.
Landon's eyes glowed with a cold glint.
The T.O.E.Ps would never let him go. So why should he do the same?
It was almost time to end things with these bastards and head to Morgany.
