LIGHTNOVELSTORY Chapter 586: Distant Emotions
Elizabeth began the meeting with a smile on her face, radiating satisfaction for the progress made. Her eyes scanned the room, congratulating each person present for their hard work and dedication.
"I want to congratulate everyone on the excellent job you have done," Elizabeth declared enthusiastically. "Thanks to your effort and commitment, we have successfully cleansed Washington, D.C. It is a monumental achievement and an important step towards our ultimate goal."
Elizabeth's words resonated in the room, generating a sense of pride and satisfaction within the team. They knew that their hard work and dedication had paid off.
"But I want to give a special mention to the army that took on that task," Elizabeth continued, directing her gaze towards those who had led the operation in Washington, D.C. "You have shown exceptional bravery and admirable efficiency. Thanks to your work, we now have a walker-free city that we can open up to a sizable group of people."
The room filled with applause and expressions of acknowledgment. The soldiers who had participated in the operation felt honored by the mention and knew that their work had made a difference.
Elizabeth proceeded, "Furthermore, I am pleased to announce that we are planning a large-scale conference where we will officially announce our full merger with the S.C.T. It will be a historic moment where we consolidate our forces and demonstrate to the world our determination to build a better future."
A wave of excitement and anticipation filled the room. Everyone understood the significance of this announcement and knew it would mark a milestone in the fight against walkers and the reconstruction of society.
Airon smiled at everyone, listening to those words with an aura of harmony with the surroundings.
"I am incredibly proud of each and every one of you," Elizabeth said firmly. "Our work hasn't been easy, but together we have shown that we are capable of overcoming any obstacle. Let's move forward with determination and unity because our purpose is greater than any challenge we may face."
The room erupted in applause and words of gratitude. Elizabeth inspired confidence and leadership, and her vision of a better future resonated in every present heart.
But at that very moment, a CRM captain raised his voice, contradicting Elizabeth. He looked at the CRM leader and the rest of the attendees with seriousness as he expressed his concerns.
"Elizabeth, I believe it is too hasty to fully merge our organizations with the S.C.T.," the captain declared firmly. "Although we have made significant progress, there are still risks and challenges that we must carefully consider."
Elizabeth listened attentively to the captain's words, but before she could respond, Airon, with his false aura and a deceptive smile, intervened.
"I understand your concerns, Captain, but we must act swiftly," Airon responded with conviction. "Every day that passes, the threat of walkers grows. If we wait too long, we risk further complicating our situation. The conference is the perfect moment to show the world that we are united and ready to face any challenge."
The captain furrowed his brow, displaying his disagreement. "But Airon, merging our organizations entails risks. We do not fully know the S.C.T. nor do we know if we share the same values and objectives."
Airon gave him a piercing look and answered with a confident voice, "I understand your concerns, Captain, but we must trust that we have taken the necessary measures to ensure our safety. Furthermore, by merging at the time of the conference, we will be sending a clear and powerful message to everyone present. We will demonstrate that we are willing to set aside our differences and work together for a greater good."
Elizabeth, observing the interaction between Airon and the captain, reflected for a moment. She knew that the merger was not without risks, but she also understood the importance of showing unity at such a crucial moment.
"Captain, we all know your concerns, but we must evaluate the benefits and risks of this decision," Elizabeth said calmly. "Airon is right that time is against us. We need to act strategically and united to protect our people and build a better future."
The captain nodded, although he still showed some apprehension on his face. "I understand, Elizabeth. If that is your final decision, I will follow your orders and work towards a successful merger at the time of the conference."
Elizabeth thanked the captain for his understanding and collaboration. She knew that not everyone would fully agree with the decision, but she trusted that together, they could overcome any obstacles that came their way.
The room fell into a brief silence as everyone processed the conversation. They knew that the path ahead would not be easy, but they were determined to work together and face the challenges that lay ahead.
With the merger scheduled for the conference, the CRM and the S.C.T. would be taking an important step towards consolidating their forces and building a safer future. The leaders of the CRM and the members of the S.C.T. prepared to confront the unknown and show the world that together they were stronger.
While the meeting continued, work groups were formed, and plans were made for the conference and the implementation of the merger with the S.C.T. Everyone was committed to making that event a success and showing the world that together they were unstoppable.
The future was full of challenges, but with Elizabeth at the helm and the commitment of everyone, they were prepared to face whatever came their way and build a world where humanity could flourish once again.
...
Airon walked through the peaceful streets of the CRM's secure city, lost in his thoughts, when a familiar figure appeared before him. It was Alicia, his girlfriend, who had followed him to that place. They glanced at each other briefly, without surprise or excitement, as if the encounter were routine.
"It seems like many women look at you, Airon," Alicia said casually but with a slight smile on her lips when she surprised her boyfriend from behind.
"Alicia," Airon replied, showing no surprise at her presence. They began walking together, as if they were on a simple walk back home.
The atmosphere around them was peaceful and secure, but their minds were focused on other things. Airon knew he had responsibilities and missions to fulfill within the CRM, and Alicia had her own roles in the organization. They discussed the tasks they had pending for the day, discussing the details with an apparent coldness.
As they walked, the people around them seemed indifferent to their presence. To them, Airon and Alicia were just two more individuals in the midst of a city that had found safety amid the chaos of the outside world. No one suspected the true connection between them or the plans Airon harbored in his mind.
"Today, I'll focus on coordinating the exploration teams," Airon commented, maintaining his neutral tone of voice. He wanted his words to sound like any other everyday conversation.
Alicia nodded, showing little interest. She had her own tasks within the organization and knew they had to maintain a semblance of normalcy to avoid raising suspicions.
"I'll take care of reviewing the security reports and strengthening the city's defenses," Alicia responded, with a serious yet distant look.
As they approached their home within the CRM, silence filled the air between them. It was an uncomfortable silence, laden with secrets and hidden plans. However, neither of them seemed concerned about the situation. They had learned to keep their emotions in check, to hide their true intentions behind a facade of indifference.
Finally, they arrived at their destination, a discreet residence within the secure city. They entered without drawing attention and retreated into their private world, away from prying eyes.
Airon and Alicia knew that time was pressing, that their relationship was constantly in danger, and that they had to act with caution to protect each other. Despite their apparent indifference, they knew that their union was their greatest strength in the midst of that uncertain world.
In that peaceful home, surrounded by mystery and danger, Airon and Alicia continued their seemingly normal lives, but each of them was aware that the darkness and coldness that surrounded them were just a facade. Together, they were willing to face any challenge and do whatever it took to stay safe and achieve their goals.
In that moment, as they immersed themselves in the comfort of their home, Airon and Alicia knew that the struggle for survival and the fulfillment of their own plans were about to begin.