Reboot: Mechanic

Shi Tian was intrigued, given that drones are more notably known for scouting and transmitting information. 

It was never designed for offensive ability, given that its structure and properties are too small to contain such advanced technology. 

In fact, just the scouting and transmission feature would take a heavy toll on the drone, prompting it to be improbable to include offensive features.

Meanwhile, Theobold didn't seem to care whether or not Shi Tian was intrigued. 

Instead, he was more focused on explaining the drones' capability. 

"We'll send these drones ahead to scout the terrain and identify any potential dangers. They can relay live data, allowing us to make informed decisions on the safest routes. Additionally, they can engage the Gilaso variants from a distance, providing cover and support for our troops." Theobold explained, informing Shi Tian of how the lasers would be utilized. 

Hearing the explanation, Shi Tian was somewhat impressed with the plan. 

"It's a creative approach," he admitted. "With the drones' capabilities, we can minimize the risks associated with the terrain and the variants' venomous attacks."

Of course, the drones had limited capacity, meaning they weren't able to constantly use the drones' lasers to attack the Gilaso variants. To be more precise, it might not even be effective unless there are multiple usages. 

After all, if the drones were truly this powerful, then there wouldn't have been so many casualties. 

These drones' main function was merely to make their job easier in flanking and having a safer approach, albeit still filled with danger and high risk.

"The drones aren't bad, but it wouldn't be enough to suppress the monster wave." Meanwhile, Mary rubbed her chin and deduced. 

"Yes, hence why I'm also going to give you the Raygun that you kept bugging me for," Theobold said exasperatedly. If it wasn't for the tense situation, then he really didn't want to leak out their weaponry to others.

However, Vanessa was adamant that Shi Tian and Mary must participate in this farce, otherwise, she won't use her Ancient Technology. 

Thus, it left him with no choice but to somewhat comply with Mary's wishes in obtaining some of their weaponry.

Compared to the safety of Gearits City, losing some of their military weapons that would soon be analyzed by Mary was the better option and he had no regrets about doing so. 

Weapons are created to protect, and not to harm others. It was just that human natures are unpredictable, with some being born inherently evil and only wishing to cause harm. 

"Are there any more doubts or concerns regarding my plan?" Theobold then asked once the tent was silent for a brief minute. 

He was letting the two of them think it over and see if they had any more inquiries. 

After all, this was a plan that could easily determine their life, so only a fool would be impatient and rushed ahead. 

Shi Tian wanted to ask more, given that he wished to have a clear picture of what they would be facing and wished to be meticulous about it, but Mary halted him.

"No questions, me and Nathan will return to the Iron Sentinel for some prepping first." Mary waved her hand, dragging Shi Tian away without waiting for Theobold's response. 

As for Vanessa, she merely eyed Mary suspiciously as she watched her dragging Shi Tian away from the scene. 

'This shrewd woman… What is she thinking this time?' Vanessa thought to herself, still high on guard toward Mary. 

For some reason, she kept getting an uneasy feeling regarding Mary, almost as if what she appeared on the surface was a fake and not the real her.

Call it a woman's intuition or paranoid behavior, but Vanessa believed there must be something fishy regarding Mary. It was just that she still couldn't get an idea as to what the fishy stuff was. 

Sensing something was amiss, Theobold turned his focus to her. 

"Is there something wrong, Vanessa? You haven't been conversing much lately." He asked in concern. 

The whole point of their plan revolved around Vanessa, so if there was something wrong with her, then he needed to resolve it as soon as possible. Otherwise, the consequences would have been unimaginable. 

Vanessa thought about whether or not to reveal her opinion of Mary but decided not to. 

As much as she disliked Mary, she had no concrete evidence, and snitching on someone without evidence was no different than being a criminal who framed others. 

"Nothing, I'm just a bit worried whether the plan will go smoothly or not," Vanessa said, giving an excuse that seemed reasonable.

Theobold nodded his head when he heard that was her concern. 

"I see… then you shouldn't worry much. A plan, successful or not, can only be determined once we go through with it. If a plan would always be successful after being made, then there wouldn't be trial and error terminology." He explained. 

"You're right, we can only do our best and witness the result." 

"Mhmm, but you can rest assured that no matter what happened. I will ensure your safety, with my life on the line. That's my promise to you for assisting us in this crisis." 

Although Theobold might seem amicable and approachable, he was a cautious man who always investigated everything. 

Thus, he had long realized Vanessa wasn't a citizen of Gearits City, but someone from Chronosworth City.

And if he had to be honest, the two cities weren't friendly or hostile toward each other. It could be said that they are neutral, so there wasn't a point for Vanessa to come forward to assist them. 

However, she still did, and for that, Theobold was grateful to her. 

Naturally, Vanessa also knew Theobold had long figured out her identity, but just like him, the two of them kept quiet about the matter. There wasn't a need to expose each other, given that the current relationship was ideal.

"Thank you, Commander Theobold." Vanessa smiled briefly. "I'm sure my safety is guaranteed with your presence, but I do hope that you can fulfill my other condition soon enough." 

"Rest assured, I'll make sure to capture the culprit responsible for the incident and send it to you if the chance ever comes."