The room was bathed in a soft, warm glow, the lighting casting gentle shadows on the faces of Ashton's lieutenants.
The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as they all took their seats around a large, polished table.
Sitting by Ashton's side, Anna was calm and composed, her eyes surveying the room. Ashton cleared his throat, his voice steady and commanding.
"Thank you all for gathering here today," he began, his eyes meeting each lieutenant's gaze. "As you know, we have received an invitation from the Orion Empire to attend a formal event.
This event presents us with an opportunity to strengthen our position, forge alliances, and gather valuable information regarding the cult."
The room filled with a murmur of excitement and whispers as the lieutenants exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued. They knew this invitation was significant for their image and the future of their mercenary group.
Anna stood beside Ashton. She looked at each lieutenant, her gaze firm yet encouraging.
"As Reaper mentioned, his event presents us with an opportunity to showcase our strengths, forge connections, and gain valuable information. It is a chance to further our cause and solidify our position in the galactic landscape. So I don't want anyone of us messing things up!"
Vulcan, his arms crossed, nodded in agreement, his face displaying determination and focus. Otiga leaned forward; even though she already knew about the announcement, she wasn't any less excited.
Leon's stoic expression revealed his readiness for any challenge that lay ahead. After all, his job was to get muscle-brained individuals like Vimur in line for the event.
Vimur, the ever-clueless warmonger, didn't care about the delicate situation and could only think about three things: Women, food, and booze. Kass shared the same opinion... at least for the latter two options.
As for Laihud, he immediately smiled as it was his moment to shine. After all, in the academy, he grew up to be a healer; they were taught everything about etiquette that needed to be displayed before royalty.
Although, once he became a mercenary, he never thought he would get an opportunity to put his skills to the test. Last but not least came Viper, who ever so silently kept absorbing every piece of information thrown his way.
"As a team, we have proven our abilities time and time again," Ashton continued. "We have faced countless challenges and emerged victorious. This event presents us with an opportunity to showcase our strength, both in combat and diplomacy."
He continued, "We must seize this chance to make a lasting impression, to demonstrate that we are a force to be reckoned with."
The room hummed with adrenaline as Ashton's words sank in. Each lieutenant understood the significance of this moment and the responsibility they carried. They were more than soldiers; they were ambassadors of their cause.
"Our preparation begins now," Anna declared, her voice resonating with conviction. "Research the Orion Empire—its customs, traditions, and key figures. We must show respect and adapt to their ways. Let us embody the values that have brought us this far: courage, loyalty, and unwavering determination."
"I have already compiled enough information to get you started. Learn about the Orions like they are the back of your hands." She concluded.
The lieutenants nodded in agreement, their collective resolve palpable. The room seemed to crackle with the weight of their shared purpose. Ashton's gaze swept across the room again, his eyes meeting each lieutenant's, conveying a silent understanding.
"We have spent years honing ourselves physically, and now is the time to prepare for something better," Ashton announced with a smile. "I know most of us aren't used to the political scene, but hey! Let's try and do our best!"
A collective sense of determination settled over the room as each lieutenant recognised the magnitude of the task ahead.
They knew that the upcoming event was not just an opportunity for networking and diplomacy but a chance to showcase their unwavering strength to Orion Empire. However, Otiga had a thing two to say.
"You do know other mercenary groups have also been invited there?" She asked Ashton. "What if we encounter opposition or resistance during the event? After all, not everyone is pleased with our sudden rise to power and fame."
Ashton's lips curled into a determined smile. "If anyone tries to pull some crap on us, we face them head-on. If I'm being honest, I lowkey want someone to pull a stunt on us. What better way would there be to show our strength to the spectators?"
Everyone in the room smiled while Anna and Laihud silently shook their heads. Ashton might behave practically in most situations, but deep down, everybody knew he was a much bigger warmonger than Vimur.
But unlike him, Shinon preferred not to fight without reason, so there was that. So, until and unless someone plans on doing something to them, the banquet should go without a hitch.
Leon, his usually stoic expression softening, spoke up. "We stand by your side, captain."
"Bold words from a twerp's mouth," Vimur playfully teased Leon, as he was the weakest team member regarding combat experience.
"Thank you," he said, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "With all of you by my side, I have no doubt we will rise to this challenge and make our mark on the Orion Empire."
As the meeting concluded, the lieutenants dispersed, their minds buzzing with preparations and research. Each one carried a sense of purpose and determination, ready to face the trials and opportunities that awaited them at the upcoming event.
Ashton remained in the room, his gaze lingering on the holographic displays. His mind was already formulating strategies, considering every possible scenario. The weight of their mission settled upon his shoulders, but he embraced it, knowing that they had come too far to falter now.
"There are way too many things I need to get a hold of now," He mumbled. "But for now, I should take care of things in the tower. Starting with Tarek."
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